Home Schooled.

Once again Quinn was stuck in the middle as Daria argued facts with their home school evaluators. She sighed, bored by the tirade her sister was unleashing on the man for not being able to grasp even the basic concepts of the material they were learning.
Finally she had enough for one day. “Daria just humor the moron, Mom and Dad hired him out of the high school here and clearly their standards for teachers are almost as low as the students test scores.”
Mr. O’Neil turned bright red and Quinn saw his lip start to quake as the tears sprang forth.
“Oh for god’s sake butch up a little.” Daria groaned and pointed at the door firmly.
Quinn watched the man leave and sighed again. “That’s the third one Daria; Mom’s going to have a cow if we keep going through them like disposable lighters.”
“Then she should have kept the first one. He, at least wasn’t an idiot.” Daria growled as she plopped onto the couch.
“That was the one with the eye thing right, he really knew history.” Quinn agreed and looked wistfully at the text books their parents had bought them when moving into the Lawndale school district.
“Dad just had to come home early when we were going over the history of the modern military.” Daria sighed.
“It was kinda of nice being able to show you up every once in a while.” Quinn said depressed.
“Well history and art have always been your thing.” Daria said trying to cheer up her sister.
“But you have math and science and writing.” Quinn complained showing her famous pouting that had almost cost them the ability to stay out of school in Highland. :Damn male teachers.: Daria thought without any malice toward the only friend and companion she had, ever since their parents had been informed of a school shooting in a neighboring town four years before.
“You want to do something?” Quinn asked hopefully.
“I want to run screaming into the night but since that doesn’t seem like a smart choice, Maybe we could go out tonight. See if this town does anything besides produce incompetent teachers.” Daria shrugged.
“Really like an arcade or something.” Quinn said hopefully.
“Maybe or somewhere we can listen to some music.” Daria answered.
“Ok but promise me you won’t drink.” Quinn said hitting Daria with her puppy eyes, a force no living being could resist.
“Fine but if I have to be stuck in this hell, I see my trip on the wagon is going to be a short one.” Daria relented.
“Can we dress up?” Quinn said sounding cheerful.
“OK but keep it to a minimum we don’t know how the locals dress yet.” Daria warned.
“You will be wearing the jacket.” Quinn said with a grin.
“You can’t beat leather for a place like the Zon.” Daria did her smile.
“What’s our cover story?” Quinn asked.
“Seeing as the parents don’t get home until after dark we can be long gone and leave a note saying we are out sightseeing.” Daria shrugged.
“They’re not the best parents in the world, are they?” Quinn said with a laugh as she headed upstairs.
“I refuse to comment on that on the chance they have hidden microphones in the house.” Daria said loudly so her sister could hear.
A scant few hours later they were taking up one of the few tables in the entire place listening to some local grunge band.
“They could use a few practices but god the lead singer is hot.” Quinn said almost drooling over the dark haired crooner.
“Ya, he’s nice looking.” Daria said with a blush.
They listened as the band called a break and promised to be back later for another set.
“Promise or threaten that’s a thin line.” Daria smirked.
“That’s funny.” Said a black headed girl who joined them at their table without asking before she sat down.
“I’m here all week.” Daria said taking in the stranger.
“Excuse me but did we ask you to join us.” Quinn said nervously.
“Jane Lane artist at large.” The girl said with a flourish.
“So you do art. I'm Quinn and this is my sister Daria.” Quinn said and Daria knew that they had just made a new friend wither or not she wanted to at least this one seemed cool.
“I do, at least when I’m not imprisoned inside the hell that is Lawndale high.” Jane laughed.
“You must know DeMartino, Barch and O’Neil.” Daria said.
“Oh ya, DeMartino is ok but he hates everyone, Barch just hates men and O’Neil, well I don’t know what to say about that train wreck.” Jane answered.
“Sounds like them.” Quinn said smiling.
“You new in town so you’ll get to know them real soon, nice jacket by the way.” Jane said.
“Ummm thanks.” Daria said.
“We are home schooled so now that they don’t work for us as tutors we won’t be seeing them again.” Quinn said honestly.
“Think your parents will adopt me.” Jane joked.
“Hey look the singer is coming this way.” Quinn said and Daria grabbed her hand to keep her sister from bouncing.
“Excitable isn’t she. Would you like me to introduce you?” Jane said and watch the younger sister drop.
“He’s yours.” Quinn said sadly.
“No, he’s my brother.” Jane laughed.
“Please.” Quinn pleaded.
“We would love you to.” Daria said smiling and Jane noticed she checked out Trent as well.
“OK ladies, my brother Trent Lane, slacker musician.” Jane said as her brother joined them.
“Hi Janey and Janey’s friends.” Trent said.
“Hi Trent.” Daria said and blushed.
“Hello Trent it’s a pleasure to meet you.” Quinn said formally.
Trent seen surprised by the greeting and stood there without speaking.
“So Trent are you going to make enough to cover a bill tonight.” Jane asked slugging her brother in the shoulder.
“Ya as long as it’s a small one.” Trent laughed then started coughing before righting himself.
Jane saw the two sister look at each strangely at each other a felt a need to explain.
"Trent and me are pretty much on our own since the parents are always out of town." Jane explained.
"Cool." Daria said.
"That's like us except their there in the mornings sometimes." Quinn said nicely.
“Anybody here want a drink.” One of the bartenders asked.
Jane saw Daria open her mouth then close it and Quinn sigh gently.
“One is ok.” Quinn said rubbing her sister’s arm.
“Just one, I swear. Jack and coke please.” Daria said and flashed an id that even Jane could see was fake but the bartender didn’t notice or care.
As he left to fill Daria and Trent’s orders, Jane saw Daria mouth a thank you to her sister who smiled weakly.
“So since you two don’t go to school, what do you do with your time?” Jane asked.
Daria and Quinn exchanged glances and shrugged.
“I write.” Daria answered.
“I paint and sew.” Quinn answered as well.
“Cool I would love to spend some time with other creative people.” Jane said.
“Well you can come over any time.” Quinn said grinning which dropped slightly as the drinks arrived and Daria started drinking hers, something that Jane took careful notice of.
“So did you like the music?” Trent asked.
“It was nice.” Daria said still blushing.
“I loved it, our parents are ex-hippies and it’s so nice to hear something not from the 60s and since we came from Texas that meant country and I never want to hear that ever again.” Quinn shuddered.
Daria checked her watch and groaned out loud.
“What’s wrong?” Jane asked.
“It’s going to be a hard sell for the parents to believe we’re sightseeing at midnight.” Daria groaned again.
“We have to go.” Quinn said and handed off a slip of paper to Jane and Daria knew it was their phone number and address.
They made their goodbyes and Jane was a little shocked by the hug from Quinn and then the sister's left together and quickly started the ride home in a hailed taxi and Quinn had to ask.
“Ok before I try anything, which one are you wanting to date?” Quinn asked.
“Excuse me.” Daria said blushing.
“I saw you checking out both of them so tell me now and I’ll go after the other.” Quinn said shaking her head.
“He’s hot but she’s got the bluest eyes I ever saw.” Daria admitted.
“You don’t get both.” Quinn pouted.
“Give me a few days ok.” Daria said as they approached their house and saw that only their father’s car was home.
“Fine but I’ll make the choice for you if you take to long.” Quinn said as they headed to the door.
As they entered their father was asleep on the couch and they quickly helped him out of his shoes and socks and covered him with a blanket before checking the answering machine hearing the message from their mother letting them know she planned on being home around 2 am.
“Great we could have stayed longer.” Daria sighed.
“Maybe next time.” Quinn said as she hugged her sister and headed upstairs.
“I think I’m going to like this town.” Daria said as she stripped of the faded leather and carried it to her room.

Chapter 2
Daria worked on the drawing board her parents had purchased to serve as a blackboard when the tutors managed to stick around for more than a few day and was humming peacefully to herself when a knock at the front door interrupted her train of thought.
She sighed and left her work with a sour expression and moved to the door and answered it with the chain still attached. Peaking out, she saw Jane standing on the steps looking back at her.
“I swear I’m not here to rob you.” Jane joked.
“Sorry, we don’t get many guests when the parents aren’t around.” Daria mumbled an apology.
She opened the door and waved Jane to enter.
“Nice place, your parents must have some loot.” Jane whistled as she entered and moved toward the living room.
“Mom’s a lawyer and Dad does consulting for advertising.” Daria shrugged.
“Sweet. It is ok I decided take Quinn up on her offer.” Jane said as she looked around.
“Ya, we don’t make many friends, not going to school and all.” Daria said then added. “Well Quinn doesn’t, I never made any friends.”
“What in hell is that?” Jane said staring at the white board that was now covered with different circles linked together in reds and blues.
“Caffeine. I’m studying organic chemistry.” Daria said.
“The great and powerful god, cool. What grade are you in?” Jane said sounding interested.
“We’re kind of off the charts on material but I’m listed as a sophomore.” Daria said.
“So where’s your sister and what’s her deal anyway?” Jane asked.
Daria went on the defense almost immediately. “What’s that suppose to mean?”
“Well she seems to act a lot younger than she is, doesn’t she.” Jane said figuring out she just hit a rough spot.
“Her social gracious are still where they were when the parents pulled her out of school, elementary school. She still gets excited and acts like it, no one has been around to tell her it was wrong.” Daria said with warning tone.
“So when she gets happy, she bounces and hugs and that kind of thing, cool it’s like meeting someone untouched by the peer pressure behavior modification that is public school. So how come you're ok.” Jane asked curiously.
“I had a year in middle school but I never was that good with my so called peers or excitable. Quinn’s upstairs working on some clothes that were inspired by your brother’s band. Mystic Spiral, sounds like a doors cover band.” Daria said relaxing again.
“They wish.” Jane muttered loudly.
“So do you like Quinn?” Daria asked as they wandered into the kitchen so she took a seat at the table.
“Ya I like Quinn, that stuff earlier was just me being nosy, she’s was fun.” Jane said noticing Daria had taken on a look of disappointment.
“So you two were saying your parents are gone a lot.” Jane continued.
“They work long hours to avoid remembering they have children and leave us in the tender hands of various tutors that we chase off rather quickly.” Daria answered still looking down.
“Look did I say the wrong thing again because your giving off a weird vibe.” Jane pressed leaning against the table.
“I’m just a sore loser, As much as I don’t want to admit it I tend to get jealous of Quinn’s ability to make friends.” Daria said sounding honestly depressed.
“I want to be your friend too.” Jane said feeling more than a little swelled at the thought of people being upset that they weren’t her friends.
“I would like that but you really like Quinn.” Daria said.
“I like you too.” Jane said.
“But you want to be friends but you like LIKE Quinn.” Daria said sounding like she was repeating a speech she had heard often.
“ Like LIKE. Ohh.” Jane said as she realized the conversion she was having and slipped off the table to the floor landing on her butt.
Daria rushed over and she heard Quinn coming down the stairs as she helped Jane to her feet. Their new friend looked like she was in shock as the sisters helped her into the living room.
“What did you do?” Quinn said looking at Daria.
“We were talking and I kinda of asked about you and she fell off the table.” Daria said trying not to smile at Jane’s state of shock.
“Daria, why didn’t you just slip her a note.” Quinn sighed.
“Ok so let me but this together in my head, my two new friends are gay and like me.” Jane said from the couch where she was laying with her legs hanging over the side.
“We don’t believe in labels, a person should explore themselves and be comfortable with themselves and others.” Quinn said.
“No boundaries or limitations, ex-hippies parents remember. By the time we knew about so called normal peer relationships from TV we already had ex-girlfriends and boyfriends so why bother changing to fit in.” Daria laughed.
“Especially seeing as that wasn’t going to happen anyway.” Quinn shrugged happily.
“Cool.” Jane said laying on the couch. “You two aren’t just messing with my head are you?”
“No.” Daria said sitting on the back of the couch.
“Why would we do that?” Quinn asked sounding confused.
“To pick on the freak with no friends.” Jane said harshly.
“You have two friends.” Quinn said smiling.
“Ok but can we shelf the whole like LIKE conversion till I get used to all of this.” Jane asked gently.
“No problem.” Quinn laughed.
“You seem to be taking this well and getting shocked at the same time.” Daria mused.
“That’s what's freaking me out, the fact it isn’t bothering me, that two girls have shown that kind of interest in me and I’m kinda liking the attention.” Jane admitted.
“You want to see the shirts I made, I was inspired by your brother’s band.” Quinn said smiling.

“Sure.” Jane said and was dragged off the couch and pulled upstairs as Daria followed behind them.
“Look, see I tried different variations on the name Mystic Spiral. This one is like a tornado and this one is more like magic.” Quinn said showing off the tops that had either sewn or beaded designs on them.
“Cool, you did these since last night.” Jane said in disbelief staring at the shirts.
“I finished my school work for the week yesterday so I had all day.” Quinn said shyly.
“You didn’t just do the designs, you made the shirts didn’t you.” Jane said and she looked at Quinn’s outfit, a fashionable little number that look familiar somehow then at Daria’s that while more dark than her sister’s and more restrained, both shared a similar look.
“You make your own clothes.” Jane said and sat down on Quinn’s bed.
“Not all of them but some yes, we see something on TV that we like and I make it, here look.” Quinn said pushing a notebook filled with drawn models wearing various outfits.
“That’s were I’ve seen that shirt before, the music awards last week.” Jane sighed.
“Yes!” Quinn said and bounced up and down a few times before Daria sighed and said.
“Puppy.”
Quinn stopped jumping and plopped down on the floor looking scolded.
“Ok that’s weird, is that her nickname or something?” Jane asked.
“No, it’s a reminder to calm down.” Quinn sighed.
“That’s a story, spill your guts.” Jane demanded looking at Daria who seemed hesitant to speak.

Quinn did it for her. “ 2 years ago, I was in the front yard and this guy in a car pulled up and said he need directions to a nearby vet because his puppy was hurt.”
“Stop now if any part of this story involves you getting in the car.” Jane said terrified.
“I didn’t know where the vet was, we’ve never had a pet. I told him I’d get my sister and ran inside and told Daria.” Quinn said.
“After listening to her jump and carry on for a few minutes I got the idea. I thought it was a pervert and called the cops then went outside to try to stall him till they got there and...” Daria said looking embarrassed.
“Again stop if getting in the car was involved.” Jane said dying to know but not that.
“I go out there and he really did have a hurt puppy, thank god I didn’t know where the vet was either or I might have gotten in the car. I told him I was sorry, damn it, sorry for calling the cops but maybe they could show him where the vet was.” Daria said and got quiet so Quinn picked up the story.
“He freaked out and tried to drive away just as the police showed up and arrested him. We were sitting there trying to explain that we had been mistaken. They got upset and said I was to hyper and put me in a squad car.” Quinn said and turned red.
“It turned out he WAS a sexual predator that was out on parole and had seen me and Quinn when he was delivering furniture in the neighborhood and came up with a plan. He bought a puppy that morning and broke it’s leg, just in case any adults caught him and questioned his story but the police knew who he was and hauled him to jail.” Daria finished.
“I felt so stupid.” Quinn said her eyes getting a little wet.
“At least you had the brains to come get me before you did anything. I should have kept you in the house until the cops got there.” Daria sighed looking disgusted with herself.
“Sounds like it ended well though.” Jane said visually relieved that it hadn’t ended differently.
“That’s when Daria got embarrassed to be a girl.” Quinn said hugging her sister.
“We didn’t have much back then and it still drove that freak to building a rather detailed plan to snatch us. Now we have some of the physical female attributes and it scares me a little.” Daria said hugging her sister back.
“You two are weird but in a good way.” Jane said from the bed.
“You hungry.” Daria said suddenly clearly trying to change the subject.
“I am.” Quinn said.
“I could eat if that was an offer for free food.” Jane joked.
“Daria is a great cook.” Quinn said as the girls stood.
“Really.” Jane said politely but looking doubtful.
“Yes and if you look like that again I might feed you the frozen TV dinners my parents think is food.” Daria said as she led the way to the kitchen and started pulling various items out of the fridge and freezer.

“OK, ok next thing you know you’ll want me to be nice to everyone.” Jane smirked.
“I saw the ret.. mentally handicapped boy again earlier.” Quinn said.
“I think it’s nice that the girl takes care of him and even plays into his delusions to make him feel better, she must be a saint. I have to admit that talking to him for 5 minutes made me want to run away, let alone dressing like a reject from a porn movie.” Daria said as she seasoned some boneless chicken breasts and placed them in the oven and started cutting up some vegetables.
“What are you two talking about?” Jane said almost giddy with the possible knowledge of who they were talking about.
“The boy Calvin who is special and always dresses in a football costume and I can’t remember the girl’s name who is always taking care of him.” Quinn said.
“Kevin.” Daria corrected.
“Ya that’s right.” Quinn said stealing a carrot stick from her sister expertly dodging a smack aimed at her hand.
“You mean Kevin Thompson and Brittany Taylor, I think.” Jane said trying to contain the laughter.
“That’s her name. I remember now.” Quinn said.
“Um, he’s not special, he’s just stupid. He is also the quarterback of the football team and she’s the head cheerleader, their dating.” Jane laughed barely able to stay on her feet.
“Are you sure?” Quinn asked strangely.
“Yes.” Jane answered.
“I asked him what applications he knew on the computer and he told me about applying for a job at the Drugs and stuff.” Daria said as she continued to prepare the meal.
“That’s him.” Jane continued to laugh and was foiled by a wooden spoon as she tried to repeat Quinn’s thievery.
“I am so embarrassed, I talked to him like a child.” Quinn said banging her forehead with her palm.
“He might have been able to understand you but I doubt it, that boy is thick as concrete and twice as dense. But he plays FOOTBALL, so he is the most popular boy in school.” Jane said taking her turn to look disgusted.

“That’s the cream of the Lawndale crop!” Quinn said looking horrified.
“Well except for Mack but he’s taken.” Jane said honestly.
“God just kill me now.” Quinn said taking a seat at the table.
“Are you sure you need time to think and is your brother dating anyone?” Daria asked as she but a tray of cut vegetables and dip on the table and returned to the kitchen.
“What?” Jane said loudly.
“We were talking last night and figured we would just split you two, one gets you and the other gets Trent as a consolation prize.” Quinn said as she held out a celery stick dipped in ranch to Jane.
“Wow, so I’m the first place.” Jane said allowing the swelling to return.
“Yes but don’t get to full of yourself just yet.” Daria warned as she checked the chicken.
“Is it done yet.” Quinn whined gently.
“10 more minutes.” Daria said and started pulling out plates and silverware.
“Real plates and metal silverware, am I getting the nice fancy treatment to woo me.” Jane teased.
Daria and Quinn both looked at her strangely and then at themselves.
“Did I say something wrong?” Jane asked.
“Sometimes when people say things we have to decided wither their kidding or not.” Daria admitted.
“I wasn’t, The plate is a real one not plastic or paper and that fork isn’t plastic either.” Jane said smiling.
“I take it you tend to eat off things that don’t have to be washed afterwards.” Daria said with a smile.
“Exactly.” Jane responded.
Daria made the plates and brought them to the table setting one in front of Jane and Quinn before taking a seat herself and pausing for a few moments as Quinn gave a short silent prayer. Jane waited as well then dug into the food and wanted to moan in pleasure at the taste.
“I told you she could cook.” Quinn said grinning ear to ear.
“You are way to happy and perky, I hope you never step foot in a high school.” Jane sighed enjoying the meal.
“She’ll have to, next month. This state has a two weeks per year school attendance to prove we can met the educational and social requirements for passing.” Daria groaned loudly.
“Ouch, that means you will be at Lawndale High, I’ll show you around until the sharks eat you.” Jane teased.
“I’m sure I can handle the course work without any problems.” Quinn said firmly.
“It’s not the teachers but the students that make High School hard, that and the math. Dealing with Kevin for hours at a time has been known to drive people to drink.” Jane said and regretted her words almost at once.
Daria seemed to wince almost physically and Quinn’s smile disappeared for the first time.
“Sorry, I wasn’t thinking; I noticed the thing concerning the drink last night. By the way that’s the worst fake id I think I have ever seen.” Jane quickly apologized and tried to redirect the conversion.
“It’s ok.” Daria mumbled.
“So I take it suggesting we go out for a night of drinking will get me lynched.” Jane pressed deciding to get it out in the open.
“Lynched would be the nice way to put it. Hunted down and skinned alive before being fed to wild dogs would be a little more accurate.” Quinn said with a slightly evil grin.
“I have to be careful as I seem to have control issues when it comes to alcoholic beverages.” Daria deadpanned.
“That’s cool several of my siblings have had that problem. If you need any help or support, I’ll be there.” Jane said.
“Is there a reason your so understanding about everything and so nice.” Quinn asked honestly.
“I have had a grand total of no friends since I got into middle school and turned into the art chick. No money, no family except for Trent and not counting Trent, no body who cares if I’m here tomorrow. Then I met two, count them two really cool girls who are almost begging to hang out with me and sure, their a little different maybe even weird but then so am I. I really could use a few friends.” Jane said and caught her self crying.
Daria reached across the table and grabbed Jane’s hand as Quinn moved next to her and hugged her gently.
“So could we.” Daria said her voice softening.

“So do you guys like parties?” Jane asked.
“Will there be cake and ice cream or clowns.” Quinn said frowning.
“Take that as a we haven’t been to any for a really long time.” Daria said.
“Well Brittany is throwing a party and I might be able to blackmail her into a couple of invites and you two can meet the wondrous children of Lawndale before your stuck with them for 7 straight hours.” Jane offered.
“I think we could survive that as long as you wouldn’t be offended if we needed to bail out early.” Daria responded.
“It sounds like a plan.” Jane said.
“This is going to be great.” Quinn said sparkling as she was almost shaking trying to contain the urge to jump up and down.
“No sugar for you the night of the party.” Jane said smiling.

Chapter 3
“Lousy stinking no good friends and sisters.” Daria mumbled intensely as she dragged the cables to the back of café where several students were in the process of building a stage.
“Where do you want these?” Daria asked when she arrived.
“Those are for the sound system, find Jamie and ask him.” Mack McKenzie said as he continued to direct the various students working on the stage.
Daria sighed and looked over where Jane and Quinn were painting a mural on one of the wall and she was envious that she had no such talent to save herself from manual labor. Daria recognized Jamie at once from the party that Jane had gotten them invited to two weeks before. To Daria the entire night had been a test of wills, to keep from drinking or killing one of the moronic party guests.
The police had been called shortly after they left but it didn’t stop Quinn from owning the entire crowd with her normal happy and perky self but Daria was rather pleased that Jane seemed to have moved into of a more older sister role with Quinn than potential girlfriend even through the subject was still on the shelf. Jamie directed her to take the cables up a short flight of stairs to a small booth filled with various electronic equipment. Sighing she returned downstairs and decided to visit her benefactors who bore the sole responsibilities of her current duties.

“Hey Daria, having fun yet.” Jane smirked as she stood back to admire her and Quinn’s work.
“I have a shovel and a large back yard, Lane.” Daria tried to growl but she was forced to admit the painting was rather distracting.
“I don’t know Jane, I really like the whole Starry Night theme but making Lawndale as the town is a bit much but adding some of your classmates out on the streets was way overboard.” Quinn said staring at the near complete mural that took up the entire 20 foot wall.
“That’s the point, I want it to say, There but for the grace of Jane go I.” Jane said trying to look all powerful.
“Easy there tiger, remember you promised not to visit any plagues on the town until after we move away.” Daria said hoping to avoid one of Jane’s rants about making them all suffer.
“Don’t judge me, jacket girl. You’ve killed off this entire town at least 10 times and that’s just in the stuff you let me read.” Jane poked Daria with the wooden end of her brush smiling.
“And why am I not allowed to read some of your stuff anyway?” Jane continued.
“I get nervous putting people in a position to judge me.” Daria admitted.
“You let Quinn read them but not me.” Jane said watching Daria blush.
“I get to read everything she writes and she helps me with the historical romances that I write.” Quinn said grinning largely.
“Historical is right for sure.” Daria said smiling.
“Ok so the romance needs work but it’s hard to make sure everything is accurate and sometimes the plot gets overwhelmed by the details.” Quinn admitted.
“And it’s not like my painting will ever pay any bills.” Quinn added.
“You’re pretty good with the brush.” Jane defended her.
“I’m ok, I like art but I will never be an artist like you.” Quinn said wistfully.
“I don’t think anyone has ever been green with envy over any part of my life before.” Jane mused.
“Someone remind me why I’m here again.” Daria sighed as she saw Mr. O’Neil walking their way.
“Because you feel a need to become more involved with the other children.” Jane mused.
“Because you can’t tell Jane no, to anything.” Quinn added.
“Hey I just suggested that you two helping me might make this project go easier and the 15 points of extra credit could determine wither I pass or fail a class.” Jane shrugged innocently.
“Dork teacher alert.” Quinn whispered as she nodded to Mr. O’Neil, their former tutor who was the school representative in charge of the project.

“Daria, Quinn I see Jane managed to get you two involved in our teen night club. I haven’t seen you two for weeks, not since well you know. I think it’s great and it proves that all teens desire a safe way to party and cut loose without the dangers of alcohol or drugs. I understand you will be doing your two weeks this month.” Mr. O’Neil said pleasantly.
“Yes.” Quinn said nicely.
“I tried to get them to just drop hammers off a building at us but they said it wouldn’t be painful enough.” Daria smirked.
“Daria I know you both move to a different beat than most young people but it could be a rewarding experience and perhaps you might enjoy spending more time with people your own age, like Jane.” Mr. O’Neil said before moving away.
“Damn it, did that wimp just score a point.” Daria sighed.
“I think he did, you’re getting soft.” Quinn smiled.
“Wait till you take a class with him, he cries on a weekly basis.” Jane laughed.
“Seen it, Daria made him cry within 30 minutes on his first day.” Quinn joked.
“All I did was try to explain the divine comedy to him.” Daria said with a smile.
“I did a series once on the 9 circles of hell but my brother Wind freaked out and burned them one night he was under the influence of questionable chemicals.” Jane said.
“I would love to have seen them.” Daria said sincerely.
“I have pictures of them, I’ll dig them out and trade you for one of those stories I don’t get to read.” Jane pushed.
“Ok, but no acting surprised about their content, you were warned.” Daria agreed.
“Deal.” Jane said and returned to her painting quickly followed by Quinn who gave a thumbs up to Daria.

Daria sighed and returned to her grunt and found herself wheeling around a drink cooler, handing out sodas to various students. It gave her a chance to meet a large number of them and she quickly found that Jane hadn’t been exaggerating with her daily descriptions of them. Mack and Jodie were the typical do gooder types that seemed perfect in almost every way but she noticed that Mack was always on edge from dealing with Kevin and Jodie was a breakdown in the making. Kevin she still wasn’t convinced he wasn't mentally challenged and the more time she spent with him the less convinced she was. Brittany was the picture perfect stereotype dumb blonde cheerleader but it was almost too much and Daria was starting to suspect there might more hiding under the surface. The rest were the standard collection of slackers and jocks and other assorted types that came standard issue with any school.

At the end of the day they walked home as Jane’s brother had proved incapable of remembering the simple feat of picking them up.
“So what’s for dinner?” Jane asked nervously.
“Geez, Lane. You don’t have to act like we would turn you away. It’s easier to cook for four rather than two anyway.” Daria said shaking her head.
“Besides it gives us a chance to spend more time with you, seeing as you avoid us all day during the week.” Quinn teased.
“I could be convinced to try this home schooled thing except I wouldn’t even get myself out of bed without school.” Jane admitted.
“Is Trent eating?” Daria asked.
“I give him the doggy bags every night and they do disappear and I think he mumbled something about being in heaven the other night.” Jane laughed.
“I know you guys ate and all but really, I like pizza too but not every day as your primary meal.” Daria said gently scolding.
“I didn’t even know people really ate like you two do, at least out of TV land.” Jane said showing she wasn’t bothered by Daria’s remark.
“Our parents don’t. They have frozen dinners every night or just eat takeout if their home to late to cook which is most nights.” Quinn sighed.
“We take care of ourselves to well. It lets them forget that we might still need some parenting.” Daria joined in the sigh.
“At least yours show up, mine disappear for months on end then drop in and give us a feel good speech about being free and expanding our selves beyond what we know then disappear again. Forget the fact that Trent is paying the bills on the house and feeding us with the jobs he can find with the band.” Jane complained ending in a similar sigh.
“Why not get them hired at the club, most of their stuff is clean enough to get past Mr. O’Neil and it’s going to be a paying job for at least 4 local bands according to Jodie.” Daria said.
“Mystic Spiral playing a dry club for a bunch of high school kids, I don’t know if I can sell it.” Jane said thoughtfully.
“I’ll make him another shirt and Daria will cook him his favorite dinner if he at least tries.” Quinn offered.
“You just want to measure him again.” Jane laughed.
“That’s just a perk.” Quinn blushed and looked uneasy until Daria rubbed her shoulder.
“So what is for dinner?” Jane asked again.
“Sweet and sour pork and chicken served with fried rice and steamed vegetables.” Daria responded.
“I love the dipping sauce you make with that.” Quinn said looking cheerful again.
“All this green stuff you eat makes me nervous, that stuff can make you sick.” Jane argued.
“This isn’t your refrigerator some green things grow in the dirt, not on top of other foods. And I doubt they will kill you.” Daria sighed.
“That thing is scary and gross.” Quinn said shuddering remembering her single look into the Lane fridge.
“I warned you ahead of time.” Jane shrugged.
“We’re coming over this weekend to clean just so you know.” Quinn said smiling.
“What?” Jane said.
“If we are going to be coming over to your house then it has to happen so just be prepared.” Daria warned.
“You don’t have to do that.” Jane said.
“It means three free meals for you and Trent.” Daria pushed.
“Damn you Morgendorffer gals, you know my weak spot.” Jane laughed.

Saturday came quickly and Jane was enjoying sleeping in when she heard stumbling and a tense muttering enter her room.
“Janey I had a bad dream.” Trent said from the foot of her bed.
“You will never be an accountant I swear.” Jane answered hoping it would end the conversion at 6 am. “Damn it Trent I told you no nightmares until the sun comes up.” She growled looking at her clock.
“No, it was different, there were these two Tasmanian Devils tearing through the house cleaning everything and then they offered me coffee and told me not to touch anything.” Trent said and Jane saw the cup in his hand.
“Please god no, not this early.” Jane whined.
“They said to go back to bed or help, so I decided to go back to bed but it seemed so real Janey.” Trent said shuddering.
“I have this feeling it was now go back to bed before they put us to work.” Jane groaned and covered her head with her blanket.
“Whoa, you mean I'm not dreaming.” Trent said.
“No, Daria and Quinn decided that our house keeping skills are not up to their standards and are cleaning the house and cooking for us today.” Jane said from under the blanket.
“So why did they take all my clothes.” Trent said.
“I don't want to know. You are dressed now right.” Jane tried to scrub the mental image out of her head.
“Ya but they said I have to take a shower when I get up.” Trent sighed before returning to his room.
“Good, now get out of my room.” Jane muttered and tossed a pillow toward his retreating form.

The silence from downstairs was worse than anything Jane could picture happening and after two hours of trying to return to sleep she gave up and crawled out of bed only to find all of her clothes were gone. She head toward the bathroom to grab anything she might have left in there and found it was empty and clean, almost sparkly.
“Ok enough already where are my clothes.” Jane said stomping down the stairs to find the entire downstairs had been transformed and Daria and Quinn were sitting on the couch watching television as they repaired various holes and the like in both her and Trent's clothing.
“Good Morning Jane.” Quinn said smiling.
“Breakfast buffet and coffee on the kitchen table.” Daria waved as she seemed to be playing with a sock puppet.
“What are you doing with my sock.” Jane asked as she got her self a cup of coffee and down it and poured another, drinking the second slowly.
“I'm darning it.” Daria answered.
“What did it ever do to you?” Jane sighed.
“She's sewing up the hole in it, that's called darning.” Quinn giggled.
“Ohh. How did you manage to clean the whole place so quickly.” Jane mused looking at the spotless room.
“It wasn't that dirty.” Daria said.
“It was just cluttered.” Quinn added.
“So I loaded Quinn up on sugar and caffeine and turned her lose this morning at 5:30.” Daria said smiling.
“Once Daria got the really icky stuff out of the fridge and we went to town with bleach in the kitchen the rest of the place just went quickly.” Quinn finished almost bouncing in place.
“We washed all the clothes we found and now we're doing the easy sewing then Quinn will tackle the hard stuff.” Daria indicated the pile of clothing sitting between the sisters on the couch.
“Wasn't this couch green before.” Jane said looking confused.
“It was and I'll thank you never to remind me that I sat on it when it was.” Daria shuddered.
“It's tan now.” Jane said and then realized what was being implied and she couldn't stop the revulsion from showing on her face. “Ewwww.”
“Here's a change of clean clothes and a towel please return what your wearing to us so we can get it cleaned and patched to.” Quinn said handing them over the couch and returning to her work.
“You know a person could either get to really like this kind of treatment or get seriously weirded out.” Jane said grabbing some bacon and heading upstairs for a shower. She noticed her room had been cleared of clothing and clutter but otherwise left alone.
“Story of our life.” Daria said quietly as she continued to repair the sock, Quinn smirked humorlessly at the remark.


Trent found himself down stairs munching on a plate of food as he looked around the trying to take in the entire house.
“Something wrong Trent.” Jane said as she returned from her shower and surrendered her bed clothes to Quinn who carried them in front of her like they might explode.
“What's that smell?” Trent asked.
“I don't smell anything other than the food.” Jane said as she started eating.
“That's it, I don't smell anything either.” Trent said.
“That is normally considered a good thing.” Jane laughed.
“The redhead keeps showing me my clothes and explaining stuff about threads and fabric or something.” Tread said quietly.
“She's telling you what she did to fix the holes and rips and missing buttons.” Jane sighed.
“Oh that's real nice of her. Janey, why are they here?” Trent asked causing Jane to smile.
“They like hanging out with me and vise versa and this place was a real dump and it grossed them out. So they cleaned it and I think their bored a lot so it gives them something to do.” Jane shrugged.
“So be nice right.” Trent said shaking his head.
“Better than nice, hows things with Monique?” Jane pressed.
“Pretty good this week, why?” Trent said his eyes narrowing.
“Well if you were single, I happen to have two single friends that might enjoy attention.” Jane comment offhand.
“Don't even try it, I'm a little old for either of them. But they are pretty cool aren't they.” Trent said and continued eating.
“Yep, pretty cool.” Jane agreed and served herself up another plate.
“Jane!” Quinn said bouncing into the room.
“Quinn.” Jane groaned at the girls apparent constant perkiness.
“We were in the laundry room and there is that room next to it with all the pottery stuff and Daria heard something inside and there was a woman and she's showing Daria pictures of you and Trent as babies.” Quinn said without breathing.
“Mom!” Jane and Trent said together and dashed toward the back of the house.
They found Daria sitting with Amanda Lane in her workshop going over the various family photos.
“Hey mom.” Jane said when she arrived.
“Hello Jane, how have you been?” Her mother asked.
“School, helping Trent make money so we can eat, all in all pretty rotten.” Jane said and wished the words back almost at once.
“Didn't we give you two access to the house bank account yet.” Amanda said softly.
“Ah no, you keep forgetting.” Trent said resting his hand on Jane's shoulders.
“Make sure I give it to you before I leave.” Amanda said.
“When will that be seeing as you usually just disappear without warning.” Jane almost snarled.
“I don't know I should be in town for several weeks this time.” Amanda said either not noticing her daughter's mood or choosing to ignore it.
“Would you like some breakfast? Daria cooked.” Quinn asked nicely.
“It's a little late for breakfast isn't it?” Amanda smiled.
“It's 9 am Mom.” Jane said looking disgusted.
“Oh is it, then yes I would love some.” Amanda said and let Quinn drag her along toward the kitchen.
“Do you and your sister live here now.” Amanda asked as Quinn pulled her out of ear shot.
“No we just took over for the day.” Quinn answered.
Daria looked at Jane and put down the photo album and stood next to her friend and hugged her gently as Trent did the same.
“What's wrong Janey?” Trent asked gently.
“I just hate how she shows up like she hasn't been gone for 5 months and acts like everything is ok.” Jane sighed.
“Me too.” Trent said. “I need a drink.” He finished.
Jane felt Daria tighten her hug for a second before pulling away. “Well coffee or orange juice is all we got so I think your out of luck.” Daria said with a sad smile.
“Sorry to be a bummer.” Jane said.
“Everybody gets a turn and now we can use your depression to convince Trent to take one of the house band slots at the club.” Daria said teasingly.
“That's not fair.” Trent said, his tone admitting he knew when he was beat.
“Thanks for understanding.” Jane said to Daria.
“I was worried you were going to start throwing things at her, so did Quinn so she got her out of the room until you could calm down.” Daria said.
“Thanks for that to, I'm not mad, more like disappointed, she didn't even let us know she was back.” Jane sighed as they made their way toward the front of the house.
“She forgets things remember.” Trent said.
“If it makes you feel better, I smacked her hand.” Daria offered.
Both Jane and Trent looked at Daria slightly puzzled.
“She was about to eat something that I'm pretty sure came out of your fridge.” Daria shrugged.
'Tonights opening night are you going to come with me and the Morgendorffer sisters to open Club Lawndale.” Jane asked Trent.
“If you want, Janey.” Trent agreed.
“And how exactly did you get my mother to show you our baby pictures.” Jane said staring down Daria.
“I might have asked what you were like as a kid.” Daria said shyly.
“No..., no..., ... she didn't ... anything but that... oh god, not the body paint picture.” Jane moaned.
“Is that the one where you running around in the back yard painted blue.” Daria asked evilly.
“I was five.” Jane yelled.
“You were naked and blue.” Daria countered.
“Now I have to kill you.” Jane said grimly.
“At least wait till after lunch, I think you will like my roast beef in Au Jus on garlic Texas toast.” Daria said innocently.
“Janey, that sounds really good.” Trent pleaded.
“I know, its all part of her evil plot to take over, fill me up with good food then wham, I'm on the side of the road selling flowers with a bald head.” Jane grumbled.
The reached the kitchen and found Quinn continuing to repair various items of clothing while she listened to Amanda talk about butterfly's.
“Is Trent coming with us tonight.” Quinn said as the entered the kitchen.
“Jane has convinced him to come down and talk with Jodie about one of the house slots.” Daria said smirking.
“She did.” Trent answered.
“Yes I did.” Jane answered.
“That's nice.”Amanda said as she ate.
Hours later when Daria and Quinn had announced the house clean and fit for humans, Daria started lunch as Quinn continued to try to repair the remaining clothes all of which belonged to Trent. Jane watched her for more than twenty minutes before asking.
“How did you two learn to do all of this?” Jane tried to ask off hand.
“Daria was always a book worm so when we started home school, she would finish the whole month in a day or two and then she would teach me. After about 6 months we were so far above our material that we had way to much free time. I started hiking and I tore my favorite pair of pants and shirt and Daria looked up sewing on the Internet and taught herself how and then taught me and helped me fix them, It's one of the few things that I surpassed her on but I think it's because I love it like you love to paint. When I make an outfit and people like it, I think it feels just like Daria does when she writes a story or you paint a picture and people like it. Daria started looking all kinds of things up online and one day I came out to the kitchen to make a sandwich and she had made this huge meal and we had so much fun eating it and she hasn't ever stopped cooking since. “ Quinn explained.
“So you two taught yourselves how to sew and cook!” Jane exclaimed.
“It wasn't always as easy as it is now but yes.” Quinn laughed.
“Wow that's really incredible.” Jane said impressed.
“You taught yourself to paint and Trent taught himself music, it's the same thing.” Quinn shrugged.
“I guess but I don't know, I wish you two went to school, we could hang out during the day.” Jane responded.
“Well it's going to happen in a week.” Quinn answered with one of her sweet smiles that could move mountains.
“I guess but it's just for two weeks.” Jane said as she watched Daria in the kitchen humming to herself as both sisters seem to do, always the same tune that she couldn't place.
“Our parents were never around to much even when we were in school, Daria turned to books and I found how to get in with whatever group or click that came around. Once that was gone, we had to look to each other and we found out we really like each other when we weren't acting like the people we were at school. Now we just try to be ourselves and no matter what happens we still got each other and that's a nice safety net, nothing will ever come between us. Just like you and Trent.” Quinn said smiling.
“Family is a good thing.” Jane smiled and went to help Daria in the kitchen.

Chapter 4

Daria stared toward the doors of Lawndale High and froze in place until Quinn moved next to her and Jane turned back to look at her, both showing concern on their faces.
“I don’t think I can do this.” Daria admitted painfully.
“Sure you can, I’m scared too.” Quinn assured her sister.
Daria looked at her sister in her stylish dress and then looked at herself, with her black denim jeans and a semi stylish Quinn created top and the ever present leather bombers jacket and sighed.
“You always fit it, Quinn. I tend to stand out and rub people the wrong way.” Daria said nervously.
“Jane and I will be here and you know you’re the smartest person here.” Quinn said rubbing Daria’s shoulders.
“And you’ll get to spend the day whole picking on new people.” Jane said smiling nicely.
“I hate this state.” Daria muttered before starting toward the doors.

A few minutes in the Office and the sisters had their schedules and Jane was overjoyed, Between the standard sophomore classes she had with Daria and her electives which seemed to match Quinn’s perfectly she wouldn’t be alone all day.
“I have at least one of you in every class, that’s perfect.” Jane said as they entered the hallway from the office.
“Keep Daria from going off on any of the teachers.” Quinn said jovially.
“Keep Quinn from getting to excited.” Daria added.
“I will take care of your sister when you aren’t there.” Jane said to both and they separated, Quinn going to her first period and Jane and Daria going to theirs.

Daria was pleased to see it was history with Mr. DeMartino, who almost stopped frowning when he saw her.
“Ah, Miss. Morgendorffer, I see that you were unable to convince the SCHOOL board to excuse you and your sister from this SAD attempt to judge your current EDUCATIONAL level.” DeMartino said.
“I refused to write new text books for them so this was my punishment.” Daria deadpanned.
“To save us both some TIME, here is your EVALuation test. I am SUPPOSED to give it to you at the end of the two weeks but I’m sure YOU can handle the material. That way you can take the time in class to bemoan the poor educational STATE of the brain dead walking rocks that are your CLASSMATES.” DeMartino ranted.
“Umm Sure, Thanks.” Daria said taking the paper and starting the test against the wall.
“You don’t think I’m a rock do you?” Jane asked trying to look hurt.
“Miss Lane, If you can manage to stay AWAKE throughout an entire class, I might be forced to look at you in a better LIGHT.” DeMartino finished and stared Jane down.
“Fine no more naps.” Jane sighed.
“Here’s the test.” Daria said handing it back completed to the teacher who took it and scanned it quickly and grinned.
“100 percent but you only got 4 of the bonus questions, I’ll bet you one of your HOMEMADE lunches that Quinn gets all FIVE.” DeMartino said quickly going over the test.
“I’ll bring in two lunches for you if she doesn’t suggest at least ten questions to add to the test.” Daria smirked.
“DEAL.” DeMartino said
“I’ll bring in 4 if you add them.” Daria said moving toward the desks to sit down at one pointed out by Jane who sat next to her.
“I LIKE the way you think Miss. Morgendorffer.” DeMartino answered as the students started filing in and taking seats.
“I feel less special after finding out you cooked for a teacher.” Jane stated.
“He only got leftovers, I swear.” Daria said trying to look sincere.

“Hey look babe, it’s the girl who gave me the candy and held my hand to cross the street.” Kevin Thompson said as he entered the room with Brittany Taylor.
“Maybe she was scared to cross by herself, she did just move here.” Brittany said.
Jane burst out laughing and fell out of her desk unable to control the laughter.
“I thought he was lost, I felt bad for him.” Daria said to her friend who was rolling on the floor.
“What’s so funny?” Brittany asked looking confused.
“I don’t know babe, maybe it’s an art thing.” Kevin said.
Jane righted herself and climbed into her desk with tears running down her face.
“I take it this was when you and Quinn thought he was SPECIAL.” Jane gasped smiling.
“Yes.” Daria sighed looking embarrassed.
“You look way to smart to have a crush on Kevin.” Jodie said from behind Daria’s seat.
“Not that kind of special.” Jane responded still gasping for air.
“Oh, … OH, and you helped him across the street, that’s really nice.” Jodie said and started giggling.
“Great, my first day in school and I’m already the laughing stock.” Daria groaned.
“It’s just no one has ever just come out and admitted they thought he was SPECIAL before.” Jodie said making quotes in the air.
“He’s a rock but most of us have been around him since kindergarten so we’re used to it.” Mack said from the seat next to Jodie.
“So he’s really not?” Daria pushed.
“Not as far as I know and I’ve spent more time than anyone else around him.” Mack said and suddenly looked depressed.
“Poor thing. Have a cookie.” Daria said holding out a Ziploc bag filled with homemade cookies.
“Thanks.” Mack said and took a bite and smiled. “That’s good!” Mack said as Jodie accepted one to, quickly followed by Jane.
“Oh these are really good.” Jodie said a little too loudly and DeMartino arrived at their desks.
“AND what are my students eating, I should warn you DARIA. In school we have a rule, if you don’t bring enough to share, don’t bring IT.” DeMartino smirked.
“Share with who?” Daria asked nicely as she held up the bag for him to take one.
“With the TEACHER, Let the cabbage heads starve.” DeMartino said grabbing two of the cookies then returning to his desk and starting the class.

Quinn’s day started much the same with the glaring exception she was forced by Mr. O’Neil to stand up in English and describe herself to the rest of the class.
“Hi, I’m Quinn Morgendorffer. My family moved here to Lawndale from Texas a few months ago and normally my sister and myself are home schooled but to prove we’re doing the work, we have to spend two weeks here in school each year. I like meeting new people and spending time with my big sister and I like to dress up and listening to music and I like art and history and well that’s everything I guess so HI!” Quinn said before returning to her seat.
“Very good Quinn, Does anyone have any questions for Quinn.” Mr. O’Neil asked.
“Is that a Shawn LeMarie dress?” A fashionable dressed brunette asked from the back of the class.
“He designed it but I made …” Quinn started to answer.
“You will be having lunch with us.” The girl interrupted her.
“OK.” Quinn said happily.

The class went by quickly and so did her math class that followed and she couldn’t stop smiling when she entered her third period study hall to find the girl and several others taking seats next to her.
“Hi.” Quinn said to the various girls. There was the brunette named Sandi and an Asian girl named Tiffany and both the other two were brunettes as well, Stacy and Brooke.
Sandi was clearly the leader of their fashion club and controlled every facet of the conversion even when Sandi asked a question, she tried to control the answer.
They spent almost the entire class talking about fashion and each other’s outfits and they all watched the same kind of clothing and modeling shows. Quinn was completely relaxed and overjoyed with making four new friends. :I can’t wait to introduce them to Daria, maybe she’s not fashionable but she’s fun so they’ll like her.:
“I have to say you will be a perfect addition to the fashion club, I couldn’t even begin to ask my mother for a $1000 dress.” Sandi said.
“Ya, …and ..it ..looks ..really ..good ..on ..you.” Tiffany said.
“Thank you but I didn’t bu…” Quinn tried and was again interrupted by Sandi.
“With 5 people in the club we can demand a meeting space from the school.” Sandi mused.
“That would be great, Sandi, your so smart.” Stacy said looking nervous.
“Thank you Stacy.” Sandi said.
“Why doesn’t your dress have a tag?” Brooke asked suddenly from behind Quinn.
“Sorry, what?” Quinn responded.
Brooke reached over and grabbed the back of the dress and pulled it out and asked again.
“Why doesn’t your dress have a tag?” Brooke demanded.
“Why would I put a tag on it?” Quinn asked not understanding the question.
“What are you talking about Quinn?” Sandi demanded moving herself directly in front of Quinn tapping her foot.
“Why would I put a tag on a dress I made?” Quinn said feeling her heart start to speed up.
“You said this was a Shawn LeMarie dress now you say you made it.” Sandi waved her hands looking annoyed.
“I said he designed it. I copied it.” Quinn answered; glad to clear up the misunderstanding.
“She did say that.” Stacy added.
“So you stole it.” Sandi accused raising her voice.
“I did not.” Quinn stated loudly.
“You took his hard work and instead of buying one of his dresses, you stole the design and COPIED it. Your words.” Sandi said looking disgusted.
“That’s ..so ..wrong.” Tiffany said.
“There’s nothing wrong with copying clothes you see on TV.” Quinn tried to defend herself but she felt the pressure building in the back of her eyes.
“You’re a knockoff artist.” Sandi declared.
“What?” Quinn said not understanding but feeling the wetness start to build in her eyes.
“You’re a thief.” Brooke said from behind her.
“I am not.” Quinn cried as the tears started.
“I think it’s cool that she can make something that looks so good.” Stacy tried but was bullied quiet by a vicious look from Sandi.
“You are a thief and I don’t think you should be allowed to wear that dress and certainly not join the fashion club.” Sandi said and took a step toward the now sobbing Quinn.
The teacher was approaching to break up the now loud argument complaining outloud about their behavior when Sandi grabbed Quinn only to start screaming loudly as Quinn stomped down on the bridge of her foot and ran from the room crying.

Daria was staring at Mr. O’Neil cruelly and she took pleasure in the soft whimper he let out as she walked to the front of the room to tell the class about herself.
“I’m umm Daria Morgendorffer. I don’t want to be here but this stupid state says I have to be for two weeks so I’m stuck. I like to read and write and spend time with my sister and my friends, Hi Jane. I don’t do clubs, sports or anything like that.” Daria said and started toward her seat.
“Any questions?” Mr. O’Neil asked.
“Why haven’t you been to school before?” Brittany asked.
“I’m home schooled.” Daria answered.
“Why did you keep giving me candy and telling me not to eat it until my mom said it was ok.” Kevin asked to the various snickers from those that had overheard Jodie and Mack’s earlier remarks in DeMartino’s class.
“I … I thought you were someone else.” Daria said blushing.
“Cool, can I have another piece of candy?” Kevin asked and caught the bright gold wrapped candy Daria tossed to him.
“Can I get some more cookies?” Mack asked staring at the bag poking out of her backpack.
“Sure.” Daria laughed.
“What’s for dinner tonight?” Jane asked.
“Yard, shovel, you.” Daria sighed.
“No, really.” Jane pressed.
“Duck a l’Orange and roasted potatoes with a salad.” Daria answered.
“Your going out to eat at a fancy restaurant tonight, that’s always fun.” Brittany said smiling.
“No I’m cooking it.” Daria said.
“Wow.” Brittany said twirling her hair.
“Can I come over to eat at your house?” Mack asked kidding.
“No, after the human vacuum cleaner gets done, there isn’t enough left for a mouse.” Daria said pointing her finger at Jane.
“I’m a growing girl.” Jane defended as a loud cough brought their attention to the front of the room.

They turned and saw the office secretary standing at the front of the class.
“Daria Morgendorffer and Jane Lane, can you please come with me?” She asked gently.
Jane looked at Daria who was grabbing up her bag and after tossing the cookies to Mack was heading to the front of class.
“What’s up Amiga?” Jane said following behind her.
“Quinn.” Daria deadpanned looking worried.

They arrived at the Office and were taken directly into one of the offices and found Quinn crying and sobbing, hiding underneath a desk.
“Quinn!” Daria cried out and crawled under the desk and wrapped her arms around the shaking girl.
“Hey Quinn, What happened?” Jane asked as she sat on the floor next to the entrance under the desk.

“They were nice and they said they liked me and then they called me a thief.” Quinn cried. “Then she tried to take my dress.”
“Who?” Daria demanded.
“The fashion club.” Quinn cried.
“Griffin.” Jane said like a swear.
“Who?” Daria said fuming as she calmed her sister.
“The president of the fashion club, Lawndale’s collection of shallow empty but well dressed egotistical brats.” Jane said shaking her head.
“Oh, can you point them out to me?” Daria said quietly.
Jane heard the harshness and contained rage in the voice and paused before answering.
“No need for that, I’m Principal Li, head of staff here at Lawndale High. I understand your first day hit a few bumps.” Li said calmly.
“She grabbed me and she was saying she wasn’t going to let me wear my dress.” Quinn cried against Daria.
“WHAT, she grabbed as in put her hands on you?” Daria fumed.
“And then you broke two of her toes and almost crushed her arch.” Li said in what she thought was a calming voice.
“Some girl attacked my sister, I’m calling my mother, the LAWYER.” Daria said and pulled the deskphone under the desk with her.
“Just a minute Miss. Morgendorffer, perhaps we can work this out without escalating the problem.” Li said sounding panicked.
“No, I think my mother said something about wanting to sue someone this morning.” Daria said and Jane heard tones from the dialing.
“Let’s make a deal.” Li almost begged.
“What are you offering?” Quinn sniffled and Daria hung up the phone.
“What do you want?” Li sighed.
“I want to take classes with Jane and Daria.” Quinn said her voice still shaky.
“The work is more advanced…” Li started and heard two quick loud snorts from under the desk that stopped her from finishing the comment.
“I think their both pretty sure Quinn can handle the work.” Jane smirked.
“But your sister isn’t taking the same electives.” Li tried.
“Switch me to Art and Home Economics and then we can have the same classes.” Daria said.
“Fine but she will have to pass the test for those more advanced classes instead of the lower level classes.” Li said.
“That won’t be a problem.” Daria said confidently.

“Their really mean here.” Quinn said as Daria crawled from under the desk and helped Quinn to her feet.
“Some students can forget their manners and I promise you, I will make sure that Mrs. Griffin remembers in the future to reflect the correct image, to honor Lawndale High.” Li said as she left.

Daria escorted her sister to the bathrooms and after leaving Jane as a guard at the door quickly repaired Quinn’s makeup.
“They acted like they wanted to be my friends then they turned on me, just like Jane said, like sharks.” Quinn complained.
“I know, do you know what set them off?” Daria asked.
“They liked my dress and I tried to tell them I made it but they wouldn’t listen and then they got mad when it didn’t have a tag. What’s a Knockoff artist?” Quinn asked.
“Someone who copies designers and tries to sell what they make as originals. First you don’t sell what you make and second you always tell people you made the clothes so calling you that is a lie.” Daria assured her trying to stop her own blood from boiling.
“What’s their problem anyway?” Quinn said showing a little anger as Daria finished fixing her makeup.
“You are, your pretty, smart, nice and everyone likes you. You are what every girl wants to be and some people hate that.” Daria answered.
“But I don’t try to bother people.” Quinn said not understanding.
“I know but some people are just too small inside to play well with others.” Daria smiled.
“You always take care of me.” Quinn said and hugged Daria tightly.
“Um …well you’re my sister and …umm …I love you.” Daria said weakly.
“I love you too, you’re the best sister in the whole wide world.” Quinn said as she squeezed Daria tighter as Daria returned the hug.
:Second best.: Daria thought.

The sisters joined Jane at the door and started down the hall when a sad girl in pig tails blocked their path. Quinn quickly hid behind Daria and gasped.
“It’s one of them.”
Daria smirked moving forward and decided she didn’t really want to go to college anyway but stopped when Quinn added.
“The nice one.”
“Daria, meet Stacy Rowe, the lowest ranked member of the fashion elite.” Jane said as she decided to only make a half hearted attempt to tackle Daria if she started beating Rowe down.
“I’m really really sorry Sandi was so mean to you and she’s always so mean to me too and I think it’s really cool that you can make a dress that looks so pretty and not even Tiffany could tell it was a copy and she can usually spot fakes, I mean copies a mile away.” Stacy said putting forth a convincing argument to Daria that maybe people didn’t really need to breathe.
“Really.” Quinn said and she stepped out from behind Daria.
“My mother taught me how to sew but I can’t do anything like that, the one time I tried to do a dress it fell apart as soon as I tried it on.” Stacy said.
“I could teach you how.” Quinn said sounding cautious.
“You could! I have this shoulder thing and it makes me look so ugly if I wear the wrong thing and it would be great to be able to make things that hide it.” Stacy said again without breathing.
“So you’re not going to attack me later.” Quinn said.
“No I like you and I want to be friends.” Stacy said and took her first breathe.
“You should come over, really I can come over, we can make outfits, you can show me how, I like to paint, I make these little necklaces, we can make popcorn, we could watch some movies, I like your hair, that dress makes yours even shinier, Sandi is really mean, Sandi is always mean to everyone, you seem nice, thank you and your really sweet, you could come over for dinner some night, I would really like that.” Quinn-Stacy said causing Jane and Daria both to stand amazed at the new creature that was unleashed on the unsuspecting world.
“They’re still talking.” Jane mused after 5 minutes.
“Yes.” Daria said.
“I’m pretty sure their not breathing.” Jane continued.
“I noticed.” Daria deadpanned.
“They’re still, still talking.” Jane added.
“I see that.” Daria smiled.
“Did your family have another sister maybe one that disappeared years ago?” Jane asked.
“I’ll ask my parents.” Daria said.
“Wait, I think they’re going to pause for a breath.” Jane said.
“Nope.” Jane continued.
“How long can she go like this?” Jane asked.
“I’ve never seen someone able to keep up with her before.” Daria answered.
“When do we get worried, oh look their bouncing now.” Jane asked.
“When one of them passes out, we worry.” Daria answered.
“You think I have enough time to get my camera?” Jane asked grinning.
“Nope.” Daria said and watched her sister and Stacy both paused and breathed.
“Damn it.” Jane said.
“I have to go back to class but I’ll call you.” Stacy said walking away with one of Quinn’s slips of paper with their address and phone number on it.
“I’ll see you later.” Quinn said waving and smiling enough to light up the entire hallway.

“OK but I’m not giving up my dinner invites.” Jane said firmly.
Daria sighed and couldn’t help but smile.
“She’s really nice and cool and hey … you’re not saying puppy.” Quinn stopped and turned toward Daria.
“I ‘m enjoying watching you make a new friend.” Daria shrugged.
“Cool and since I’ll be in your classes now hopefully I won’t have to see those mean girls again. Stacy is really nice though, right.” Quinn asked as they began walking.
“She’s a sweetheart but Sandi has used her as a verbal punching bag for years.” Jane said.
“Maybe you can show her what a good friendship is and help her grow a back bone.” Daria said trying to bring out some anger but found it had mostly faded.

Later when the trio had reached the safety of the Morgendorffer home, the girls crashed on the living room couch looking shell shocked.
“You go through that every day!” Daria said shaking her head.
“It’s not that bad.” Jane laughed.
“Sure Jodie and Mack are ok but doesn’t it seem that there are an abnormally large number of really stupid people at that school.” Daria asked.
“I always just thought it was just me that made it seem that way.” Jane shrugged.
“Is always so hectic?” Quinn asked.
“No sometimes it gets really crazy.” Jane answered.
“It’s only two weeks, it’s only two weeks.” Daria mumbled to herself.
“I never want to see that person ever again.” Quinn declared as she picked at her dress.
“Don’t stress out over Sandi, she’s just a miserable bitch.” Jane said.
“Everyone always says how great it is and how lucky I am that I can make clothes, this was the first time someone made it seem like a bad thing.” Quinn said thoughtfully.
“If you judge your worth based off what you’re wearing then it might seem like cheating for someone to look just as good or better without them having to spend all that money and everyone else is just dirt.” Daria answered.
“But that’s silly, that would be like me not liking Jane because she dresses in shorts and a t-shirt all the time.” Quinn laughed.
“Some people don’t and that’s one of the reason they gave.” Jane answered.
“What’s wrong with these people?” Quinn said shaking her head in disbelief.
“High School, I keep telling myself that it won’t be so bad once I’m out of there.” Jane tried to smile.
“I’m going to start dinner.” Daria said disgusted and left the living room.
“Trent’s out of town with the band so no doggy plate for him until the weekend.” Jane said after her.
“I’m sure you will make sure there aren’t any leftovers.” Daria yelled back.

The week passed quickly and Friday found the sisters sitting at the mall supposedly studying shrinkage in retail stores.
“Are they serious or was this just an excuse for the teacher to get a chance to go shopping?” Quinn asked as they grabbed a bite in the food court.
“Do you really think that anyone could honestly believe that the mall would be a learning environment?” Daria smirked.
“Ok, I feel much better now.” Quinn sighed.
“Hey you two this is a great learning experience, I learned how to get forty bucks worth of cash coupons at the mall.” Jane said drinking her slushie.
“I can’t believe he doubled it again when Quinn started pouting.” Daria said proudly.
“I feel so used.” Quinn joked repeating her comments from earlier.
“Daria what are you going to do with your doo dads, their really cute.” Quinn asked.
“I don’t even know what they are.” Daria sighed looking at the bag of what appeared to be cute and fuzzy worthless junk.
“Fashion alert.” Jane said nodding toward the entrance of the food
They looked and saw Sandi walking slowly on her sore foot helped by the other fashion club members.
“I know I shouldn’t feel good about someone suffering but that makes my day, I see she’s making Stacy carry everything.” Daria mused.
“Quinn I have my camera today, want to show me what you did to her foot.” Jane urged.
“No, Stacy is coming over again this weekend, she’s afraid that if Sandi finds out she will make everyone hate her and if she quits the club, same problem.” Quinn sighed looking down.
“Want me to run over there and say hi.” Daria offered.
“No.” Quinn warned.
“I can’t wait for the bus ride home maybe Brittany will let Kevin finish 99 bottles of beer.” Jane said as perky as she could manage then groaned.
“We could call Dad and see if he will come get us.” Quinn thought outloud.
“And have him spend the entire trip going off about inane bit of lunacy and chase Jane away forever.” Daria smirked.
“I come over all the time when their home.” Jane complained.
“Ya but they haven’t noticed yet.” Quinn laughed.
“So can I move in and be the secret daughter of Jake and Helen Morgendorffer.” Jane asked.
“Jane Morgendorffer, that does have a ring to it.” Quinn mused and teased.
“We still on for this weekend.” Jane asked.
“Yes, I would really love having a family portrait of me and Quinn.” Daria responded.
“I really could use some karma payback for the 10 pounds I’ve gained since you came to town.” Jane laughed patting her still flat stomach.

Chapter 5

Jane watched as Quinn pinned the fabric around her waist and started marking different numbers and lines on the cloth.
“How long do I have to stand here?” Jane groaned as she felt Stacy bring up the fabric and lay it across both her shoulders and moved around to her front to pin it into place.
“Hush, you said you would help.” Quinn said as she brought the material together and stood back after pinning everything in place.
“It doesn’t look like a dress.” Stacy said turning her head left and right followed by a tilt.
“You have to remove the extra cloth in your mind.” Quinn said and she quickly sketched something out on her pad of paper and showed it to Stacy.
“We can’t make that!” Stacy exclaimed.
“Yes we can and we’re going to make 4 of them. One for each of us.” Quinn said and Daria raised her head looking amused.
“Are we doing the matching outfits again.” Daria said as she returned to her book as she lay on the bed.
“Yes.” Quinn stated.
“I don’t remember agreeing to that.” Jane complained.
The friendly argument that ensued was interrupted by Helen Morgendorffer walking into Quinn’s room and greeting them.
“Daria, Quinn you didn’t tell me we had guests.” Helen said smiling.
“I didn’t know you were home.” Daria said with a strange tone.
“Mom, this is Jane, she’s an artist and Stacy, she’s sewing with me.” Quinn introduced the two girls.
“It’s a pleasure to meet you both, are you staying for dinner, oh look at the time I’ll need to start cooking.” Helen said looking at her watch and started toward the door.
“You’re going to be here?” Daria asked shocked.
“Yes, I’ll be here for dinner.” Helen answered.
“Dinner’s already in the oven, please don’t touch anything, will Dad be joining us this evening?” Daria said letting out the words rapidfire.
“Yes.” Helen said looking confused but only for a moment then she exited the room.
Daria sighed and put down her book, carefully marking the page.
“I better keep an eye on dinner before she lets Dad season it or touch it.” Daria grumbled as she headed downstairs.

Daria called the other girls down 30 minutes later and had them set the table for six and started serving out bowls of soup as Helen and Jake both arrived at the table.
“Look at this, everything is set up just like at a restaurant.” Helen ohhed.
Jane caught herself staring at the woman wondering what she was talking about then she remembered what Daria and Quinn had told her about their parents never being home in time for dinner. :God I’m spoiled already no wonder Daria and Quinn looked at me so funny when I was so surprised that first meal.:
“Dinner should be ready in a few minutes.” Daria said as she served out salads to everyone and handed a separate bowl filled with dressing to Jane.
“Just like you like it.” Daria said and was rewarded with a smile.
“This isn’t dinner.” Jake asked as he slurped up his soup causing Daria to frown with each sound.
“Of course not Daddy.” Quinn said with an amused tinkle in her voice.
“What’s for dinner?” Helen said as she started her salad and poured some dressing out of another bowl.
“Prime Rib with Horseradish gravy and corn on the cob and steamed summer vegetables.” Daria said casually.
“Did you order out?” Helen asked looking surprised.
“No.” Daria answered looking bothered by the question.
“Then how..” Helen started.
“Did you get the squash you wanted yesterday afternoon?” Jane interrupted as she ate.
“Yes and it was perfect.” Daria answered.
“Ewww, squash.” Jake said making faces.
“Then don’t eat it.” Daria snapped as she took a seat next to Jane and started eating as she waited for the main course to finish cooking.
“Jake, behave. The girls have company over.” Helen said frowning slightly.
“But I don’t like squash.” Jake said and cowered under a glare from Helen.
“This is even better than the other night.” Stacy said expertly redirecting the conversion as she wolfed down the soup and salad licking the last of the dressing from her fork. “What kind of dressing is this?”
“Raspberry vinaigrette.” Daria answered.
“It’s so good, I can’t believe you made it.” Stacy said helping herself to more salad and pouring a generous amount of dressing on it.
“Thank you.” Daria said clearly pleased.
“I still love this creamy garlic Italian the best.” Jane challenged.
“You put it on everything.” Quinn teased.
“Well it makes everything taste better.” Jane said in defense of her favorite dressing.
“So is this the fake soup.” Quinn said smiling as she carefully sipped a spoonful.
“Faki soupa, it’s Greek.” Daria laughed.

A small alarm went off in the kitchen and Daria hopped up and started removing a pan from the oven.
“Need some help there kiddo.” Jake said and started to get up.
Jane reached over and grabbed his hand and shook her head no and nodded for him to sit.
“I’m fine Dad.” Daria said in a warning tone as Jake took the advice from Jane and returned to his seat.
Daria swiftly prepared the plates and started to bring them in pairs out to the table, setting her parent’s plates first then returning for Quinn and Jane’s then lastly her and Stacy’s.
“This looks fantastic, kiddo.” Jake said.
“Is it a special occasion?” Helen asked gently, eyes narrowing as she noticed that Quinn and Stacy were both wearing beautiful dresses and Daria and Jane while dressed more casual than the two younger girls were dressed nicely and everyone seemed to be carrying themselves formally.
“Mom, please.” Daria said as she took her seat and nodded to Quinn who bowed her head and said a swift prayer. The effect on their parents was extreme as both sat rigidly shocked as Quinn crossed herself afterwards and raised her head.
Jane who was more used to the nightly dinner ritual smiled at Quinn and started eating.
“It looks … wonderful.” Helen said.
“Where’s the ketchup?” Jake asked and Jane wanted to duck under the table at the sudden temperature drop in the room which got deathly quiet.
“You don’t put ketchup on Prime Rib Daddy.” Quinn whispered sounding embarrassed.
“But I like ketchup.” Jake started.
“No ketchup, if you want that kind of trash then go to Chunky Burger.” Daria growled.
“Daria be nice, Jake eat the nice meal as it was prepared. I’m sure it tastes fine.” Helen said sharply.
Daria jumped up from the table and stomped into the kitchen and returned with a bottle of ketchup and slammed it down in front of her father. “You could at least taste it before you pour this all over it.” She fumed as she resumed her seat.
“And I don’t need you to defend my cooking.” Daria told her mother across the table.
“Daria what has gotten into you tonight?” Helen said.
“Maybe I would have liked a little advanced notice of the change of dining arrangements, maybe I could have made something more to your standard of meals, I think I saw a trash bag out on the side of the road.” Daria said harshly.
“I don’t think I like your tone, I am still your mother.” Helen said loudly.

“Ya right.” Quinn muttered.
“What did you say Quinn Morgendorffer?” Helen yelled.
“I said ya right. But I guess to be fair it would depend on the way you define mother.” Quinn said defiantly.
“And what’s that supposed to mean?” Helen demanded.
“Let’s define mother, gave birth, ok that’s two points for you. Takes care of children, Daria, let’s see, Daria does the cooking, most of the cleaning, I help and she makes sure I go to bed at a decent hour and get up in the morning. Daria does the shopping and makes sure the schoolwork gets done and takes care of me when I’m sick. How many points for Daria does that make?” Quinn mused.
“Seven, no eight.” Stacy answered before retreating farther in her chair when Helen started to look at her.
“I take care of this family, thank you.” Helen said sounding offended.
“No, you pay the bills, what did we have for dinner last night or any night this week?” Quinn demanded jumping to her feet facing her mother.
“What are you talking about?” Helen fumed.
“Have you ever noticed what food gets bought? How clueless are you?” Quinn said starting to look angry.
“You need to sit down and be quiet before I…” Helen threatened.
“Don’t finish that sentence.” Daria warned suddenly standing up.
“Excuse me and what do you think you’re going to do.” Helen said anger flashing in her eyes.
“I think everyone needs to calm down and enjoy this wonderful meal and maybe we can talk afterwards.” Jane tried to restore some order.
“Stay out of this.” Helen ordered harshly without looking at Jane.
“Don’t talk to my girlfriend like that, if you can’t learn some manners then get out.” Daria yelled pointing in the direction of the front door.
“What?” Helen stuttered.
“You know this does taste really good without the ketchup.” Jake said as he continued eating.
“I won’t have you talking to Quinn or our guests that way now either apologize or get out.” Daria demanded.
Helen stared at her oldest daughter who was shaking with anger and sighed.

“I’m sorry for losing my temper. Can someone please explain what’s happening here?” Helen almost begged.
“You haven’t been to dinner in a long time, we do things differently now.” Quinn said taking pity on Helen.
“Like what?” Helen asked confused.
“Well for starters we don’t eat things that come out of a cardboard box and we don’t talk down about the food. And we behave like adults, …except for tonight.” Quinn sighed.
“And why is Daria about to throw me out of the house?” Helen asked.
“Because you’re treating her like a child and you were mean to Jane.” Quinn answered.
“And rude to Quinn.” Daria added.
“How did I treat her like a child?” Helen asked coldly.
“By acting all surprised that she made a dinner which by her standards is pretty low key.” Quinn responded.
“I didn’t even know she could cook.” Helen said in her own defense.
“What did you think we have been eating?” Daria sighed and took her seat.
“Clearly I don’t know.” Helen admitted.
“That’s the problem.” Daria said.
She pushed away from the table and headed upstairs closing her door behind her.
“I’ll be back to finish this later.” Jane said pointing to her plate and followed Daria upstairs.
She didn’t bother to knock, just walked in and closed the door behind her, just in time to see Daria drinking a whiskey glass down and pouring another from a bottle of Jack Daniels. Daria was sitting on the floor with her back against her bed looking miserable. Jane took a seat next to her and remained quiet as Daria downed it as well.

“I don’t know what happened. One second I was fine then I just got so mad. They didn’t even do anything and I blew up.” Daria said pouring herself another glass.
“You were nervous and you were expecting trouble and when it wasn’t happening you made some and it just popped, all over the table.” Jane joked.
“I yelled at my Mom and Dad.” Daria whispered.
“Yep, and tried to throw her out of the house for yelling at your … girlfriend.” Jane said and waited.
“I called you that.” Daria said and started to raise the glass again only to have Jane stop her hand.
“I’m glad you did, I’ve been thinking maybe I’m ready to go there.” Jane said.
“Are you sure?” Daria said.
“Ya, but try not to get all butch on me because that would be a real turn off.” Jane laughed gently.
“I’m still not ready for a physical relationship.” Daria said shyly.
“What kind of girl do you think I am? Don’t expect to get past first base for while.” Jane said truthfully.
“I really do like you.” Daria sighed and kissed Jane gently on the lips before pulling back slightly to make Jane lean into the kiss for it to continue which she did. A few seconds but they stretched for hours in her mind.
“Ditto Ma Amiga but you still have to decide something.” Jane said straightening up when the kiss ended.
“What?” Daria asked confused.
“Are we going to sit up here and get plastered, which will really upset Quinn, who has promised to feed me to some dogs if I let you drink or do we head back downstairs and eat some of that incredible food.” Jane said grabbing the bottle.
“Downstairs.” Daria sighed and moved to the window and dumped out the still full glass.
“Later I want to talk some more about this.” Jane said shaking the bottle before sliding in under the bed.
They headed downstairs and Jane stopped at the entrance of the kitchen area.

“Of course Daria can cook, she’s been cooking for years. You should taste her lemon chicken.” Quinn was saying.
“I like her home made dressings and the fact she puts all this extra stuff in the salads, the other night it was berries and this time it’s this baby corn and these green beans.” Stacy said her mouth sounding full.

“I knew we were spending a lot for frozen dinners.” Jake mused.

“I guess we haven’t been paying much attention because you girls take care of everything so well.” Helen sighed.
“That’s part of the problem.” Quinn said and sighed loudly.
Daria and Jane walked in without speaking, holding hands as they took their seats.
“Daria, Quinn and I have been talking and it seems you’ve taken a few extra responsibilities on.” Helen said.
“Look I’m sorry I yelled, it’s been tense with having to go to High School and now the federal assessment tests for the entire state are all next week and then all of a sudden you two are here at dinner and I just melted down a little. I don’t really want you to leave.” Daria sighed and started eating.
“If you needed some help, why didn’t you just ask?” Helen said gently.
“I don’t and that’s what’s really hurting right now.” Daria responded.
“Why?” Helen said frowning.
“Because I’m still a kid, I don’t like the fact that my parents have become guests at the dinner table. We’ve had dinner with Jane more that the both of you. You don’t even know that Quinn made that dress she’s wearing or the fact that we have sit down meals 3 times a day and none of them come prepackaged. This wasn’t your fault tonight; I was so scared you two would embarrass me that I ran out and did it for you.” Daria sighed leaning back in her chair.
“It’s ok, you’re entitled.” Quinn said getting up and walking around the table and frowned as she hugged Daria.
“We’ll talk later.” Jane said warningly before Quinn could say anything concerning the smell she just picked up during the hug.
“Hey where’s the squash.” Jake asked staring down at his empty plate.
Daria looked over at him and smiled. “You ate it, it was the yellow pieces in the vegetables.”
“But it tasted good, that wasn’t squash.” Jake laughed then stopped and added. “Really.”
“Yes.” Daria held up a piece from her own plate. “Summer squash, took a week to find a farmers market nearby and Jane’s brother drove me to it.” “Hey.” Daria said as Jane bit the squash chunk off of the still waving fork.
“Snooze you lose.” Jane said smiling.
“How long have you been here?” Helen asked looking at Jane as if she was trying to remember her.
“About a month after we moved here.” Quinn answered.
“And why haven’t we met you before now.” Helen asked as her eyes narrowed.
“Because Jane eats dinner with us almost every night.” Daria answered neatly ending the line of questioning.
“Is there more?” Jake asked.
“I’ll get it.” Daria said and picked up his plate and Jane heard the pleasant humming start as Daria made the plate.
“What is that song you and Quinn are always humming?” Jane asked dying to know.
Quinn started giggling and Helen and Jake both looked confused. Stacy just seemed curious.
“I’m not sure you want to know. It’s just an old folk song from the 1700s” Daria sighed.
“I asked.” Jane smirked causing Quinn’s giggles to increase as she tried to hide them behind her hand.
“Black is the color of my true love’s hair.” Daria answered blushing scarlet.
Jane was quiet for a minute but then she leaned back and put her hands behind her head and grinned like the Cheshire cat.
“I am so getting away with anything.” Jane laughed.
Daria returned to the table and slide her father’s plate in front of him with a smile before taking her seat.
“I think we need to talk.” Helen sighed.
“Well it’s dress making for the rest of the night then Jane is doing a portrait of Quinn and I tomorrow morning but after that we should be free.” Daria answered casually.

“A portrait!” Jake said lifting his head. “Like the family picture.” He added pointing to the picture taken years before that hung on the wall.
“But this will be a painting.” Daria explained.
“I think we can wait till tomorrow afternoon to talk but there is one thing.” Helen said and Daria felt her insides tighten.
“How did you give this gravy kick without making it spicy?” Helen asked.
“It’s horseradish gravy, I’ll write down the recipe later.” Daria said smiling.

After Daria cleared the table and chased everyone off despite multiple offers of assistance she started cleaning the various dishes and pots.
“How long have you been the mother in this house?” Helen asked leaning against the stove island.
“What do you mean?” Daria sighed.
“If I walked into this house not knowing everything, I would think you were a single mother raising a teenage daughter. I don’t even know what this is.” Helen said pointing to their streamer.
“It’s a vegetable steamer. Their more healthy cooked that way instead of boiled.” Daria answered.
“Oh and that pan your scrubbing.” Helen pressed.
“It’s a 16 inch roasting pan with attached roast rack.” Daria said and she shook her head pleasantly.
“I remember you used to write.” Helen started.
“I still write, I write every day but I do this to.” Daria said shortly.
“So anything else I need to know.” Helen sighed loudly.
“I think tonight just about covered everything.” Daria smiled.
“Jane.” Helen offered.
“We’re dating.” Daria said and felt the warm shiver that ran through her body when she said that.
“Ok, nothing wrong with that but she seems to be a little motherly or sisterly toward Quinn herself.” Helen prodded.
“We’re all friends and it’s nice to be able include a few more people into what me and Quinn have.” Daria said still cleaning and drying dishes pausing to put various items away.
“I always wanted the kind of relationship you and Quinn share with my sister’s.” Helen sighed.
“It’s never to late, call them and be nice with a dash on honestly instead of honest with a dash of nice.” Daria said automatically switching into advise mode.
“I see your good at this.” Helen laughed.
Daria dried the last dish and returned it to the cabinet and quickly cleaned up the cooking area and table until it was all spotless and everything was in it’s place.
“And this would be why I never figured out you cooked.” Helen mused shaking her head.
“What?” Daria said puzzled.
“Most teens would have left some kind of evidence but I can’t even tell a meal was cooked in here let alone eaten. Why am I getting the impression you enjoy even this part.” Helen said thoughtfully.
“It’s the only time I can turn off. I think constantly about everything but when I’m cooking and cleaning, I just turn off and that’s all I’m doing, just like when Quinn is working on a big sewing project or Jane paints. It’s my zen garden, it’s peaceful.” Daria shrugged and headed upstairs.
She joined the other girls in Quinn’s room and waited for Quinn to close the door and return to her sewing table where she began cutting the material and without looking at Daria, started to speak.
“You promised.”
“I know and I screwed up, no excuses but I honestly think what happened tonight is going to help with me deal with it.” Daria admitted.
“Do you really want to quit?” Quinn asked quietly.
“I don’t like having to give up control to anything and it’s always in control when I drink.” Daria admitted.
Stacy sat quietly knowing she hadn’t been around the sisters long enough to add anything to this conversion.
“I won’t ask you to promise again.” Quinn whispered.
“It was two drinks, I’m sorry I betrayed your trust and everything you’ve done to help and I still believe in that promise and I’m going to keep trying to hold to it.” Daria said.
“If Jane hadn’t come up, how many would it have been?” Quinn asked not expecting an answer.
“What’s this promise?” Jane asked from the bed.
“I promised I would only drink when Quinn was around to keep me from drinking too much and I wouldn’t drink when I’m angry.” Daria sighed.
“I won’t date a drunk so that’s going to have to be a condition of you and me going out, the same deal you got going with Quinn.” Jane said firmly.
“Agreed … but I slip sometimes.” Daria said quietly after taking a seat on the floor and pulling her legs up against her chest.
“We can forgive a mistake as long as you’re still trying.” Quinn said moving next to her sister and laying her head on Daria’s shoulder and sighed.
“Thank you and I will try harder.” Daria said kissing the top of Quinn’s head.
“You better.” Jane warned and slid down to the floor next to her.
“Why did you start drinking?” Stacy asked and Jane found herself curious about the answer.
“I bruised my hip bone almost a year and a half ago, I got tapped by a car and one week the pain pills ran out. The pharmacy wouldn’t fill them for a minor so I was stuck without any until I could catch one of my parents. I was sitting on the couch one morning watching some stupid movie and after this guy got shot his buddies gave him some whiskey and called it liquid painkiller and I remembered that my Dad had the same kind in the cabinet where they keep their booze. My whole side was throbbing and I kept getting sick from the pain whenever I walked. So I tried it and it did help, mostly just put me to sleep at first but that helped too. By the time I got my parents to get my painkillers I didn’t need them anymore because I had my own. Quinn found out and helped me dry out and I realized I had been pretty much drunk for an entire month. After that I thought I was fine but I started drinking again, even though I wasn’t in pain anymore, I needed it and Quinn caught on to that as well and after seeing how much it was hurting her I knew I needed to quit and I’ve been trying ever since. Mostly it’s moments like tonight or social drinking now and then. I can go weeks or months without drinking but if there isn’t someone to make me stop when I do, I won’t.” Daria explained.
Quinn hugged Daria tightly and released her, returning to her desk to finish cutting out the pattern she had designed for the dresses.
“You get off this time but next time I’m gonna start smoking.” Quinn warned.
“Don’t you dare.” Daria warned.

Quinn had Stacy start using the sewing machine to begin assembling the pieces of fabric and Daria watched enjoying it as the random and strange shaped cloth started to take shape and it wasn’t long before Quinn was showing Stacy how to seam the sides of a near completed dress as Jane and Daria sat leaning against each other watching from the bed.
“Ok I really need to get a life when sketching someone sewing for hours is my idea of a good time.” Jane said shaking her head.
“How do you think I feel, I’m enjoying just watching them.” Daria said to her.
Neither Stacy or Quinn heard them as they talked nonstop the entire time, happy, cheerful and even perky as they brought forth the first three dress and Quinn pushed Stacy into the chair at the desk and made her start with the pattern they had made and do every step by herself with Quinn only supervising until she completed the last dress.

Jane and Daria fell asleep on the bed and Quinn quickly followed by Stacy climbed onto the bed and being too tired to care simply pushed the other girls to the wall to make room and fell asleep.

Daria woke up first and head into the bathroom and showered before heading down stairs and starting breakfast. By the time Helen made her way into the kitchen the entire first floor was filled with the smells of cooking food and brewing coffee.
“Damn I thought I could beat you up.” Helen sighed and reached for the pot of coffee.
“Not that one.” Daria said and she pointed to a second pot next to the kitchen sink.
“We have two coffee pots.” Helen said confused as she poured herself a cup from the pot Daria had pointed out.
“The sludge Jane drinks isn’t fit for human consumption so it’s safer to have two pots.” Daria shrugged.
“What’s for breakfast?” Helen asked.
“Bacon, Eggs, Pancakes, home fries with diced onions and oatmeal and grits.” Daria said. “Oh and Blueberry muffins.”
“You made blueberry muffins from scratch didn’t you?” Helen sighed.
“Of course and with real blueberries.” Daria answered as she pulled out the finished bacon and placed more strips in and turned the potatoes.
“How exactly do you girls eat like that and not weight 300 hundred pounds.” Helen groaned.
“We exercise. Quinn does Tai Chi and I do a lot of isometrics.” Daria answered.
“Quinn does Tai Chi!” Helen exclaimed.
“She’s really good to, Jane did this whole study of movement on her. Ask her to show you the sketches.” Daria answered and refilled her mother’s cup and put a muffin on a plate and put it next to the coffee cup.
Helen picked at the muffin and looked distraught. “I am the worst mother in the world.”
“I think the grandmothers have you beat and Aunt Rita has you by at least a mile.” Daria answered generously.

“Thank you, I needed that.” Helen answered and tore off a bit of muffin and let it melt in her mouth.
“This is good.” Helen moaned as she ate.
“Thank you.” Daria said as she continued to cook as various people stumbled downstairs.
“Coffee…coffee.” Jane begged as she entered the kitchen and Daria held out a cup of black tar and Jane gulped it down quickly and held out the cup for Daria to refill.
“I can’t keep eating like this, I’ll weigh 110 pounds.” Stacy said looking at the food in horror.
Quinn dragged Stacy to the table and sat her down and went back to get both plates that Daria was holding out for her.
“Eat, after breakfast, we work out and you can tell me about these cute guys seeing as I'm going to have to settle.” Quinn ordered with a smirk and a look over to Jane as she slid the heaping plate in front of Stacy.
“You promise I won’t get fat.” Stacy said as the smells started over taking her brain.
“I promise.” Quinn said and waved a chunk of muffin under Stacy’s nose.
“Oh that’s so wrong.” Stacy said and snatched the muffin piece and started eating.
Jane and Quinn joined Stacy in devouring the breakfast and Helen joined then with smaller portions. Jake came down stairs and after recovering the newspaper came into the kitchen and took a seat reading the paper until Daria snatched it out of his hands and placed a plate and cup of coffee in front of him and neatly folded up the paper and placed it on the counter top then she carried her plate to the table and sat down.
“I’m not allowed to read the paper.” Jake said carefully trying to avoid being ordered out of the house.
“Of course you can but not at the table.” Daria said nicely.
“Oh.” Jake said and stared at the food and shrugged before digging in.
“Quinn you two will have to do a quick workout so Jane can get started on the portrait, maybe we can go to the park later and you can work out while I watch Jane run.” Daria advised.
“No problem, an hour should burn off this meal anyway. We do need to add the finishing touches on the dresses later and I think one day of taking it easy won’t hurt anything.” Quinn laughed.
“An hour.” Stacy said swallowing a mouthful of food.
“I’ll take it easy on you.” Quinn assured her.

Helen caught up with her daughter as Jane painted and Stacy panted on Daria’s bed nearby.
“Good food, fat, exercise, thin, total exhaustion, it’s not worth it. I’ll just eat the food and be fat, will you still be my friend when I’m fat.” Stacy groaned from the bed.
“Yes, but you are not going to be fat.” Quinn said trying to remain still to avoid another whacking from Jane and her wooden handled brushes.
“A captive audience.” Helen said her voice loaded with humor.
She entered the room and sat down next to Stacy on the bed and patted the still groaning girl gently on the leg.
“Well your father just told me that I should check with you before I moved anything in the kitchen so he seems to have decided who runs that part of the house. But I’m still your mother and both of you are still my children. … Anyway I think we should refocus a bit on family and your father agrees, we won’t be stepping on anyone’s toes, we just want to be involved.” Helen said and peeked at Jane’s near finished painting and gasped twice, one for the painting and the other for the smack with a wooden brush on her head.

“No peeking.” Jane said firmly.
“Fine, you artist types are all the same.” Helen said and looked at her daughters sitting together and felt the pull in her chest.
“Get out of jail free time, anything that comes out right now will be wiped off the record.” Helen offered and felt something next to her foot as it swung under the bed.
“I got in a fight at school.” Quinn said quickly.
“I didn’t get any calls about it.” Helen said confused.
“Mrs. Li let it slide as an unfortunate adjustment setback probably due to the upcoming exams.” Daria said and let her eyes drop to the floor under the bed.
The bottle was rolling gently as her mother’s foot hit it as she continued to swing it gently, the amber liquid seemed to calling to her and it made her skin crawl at the intense desire that rose inside her.
“I have a drinking problem.” Daria whispered.
“What?” Helen said stunned.
“I’m working on getting better and Quinn and Jane are helping me get back on track.” Daria started.
“Hey, I can’t move but I’ll help.” Stacy complained from the bed.
“And Stacy and I think it’s going to be ok.” Daria smiled.
“I can have all the alcohol out of this house in an hour.” Helen said strongly.
“I cook with some of it and honestly if I slip and it’s not here, then I’ll just go get it somewhere and drink it there, it’s happened before.” Daria ended in a whisper.
“So what’s your plan of attack?” Helen said her voice resolved.
“Let my family help me and keep trying.” Daria answered.
“All of your family.” Helen asked almost at a whisper.
“Even you.” Daria smiled.
“Stop it before you make me cry, bunch of girls.” Jane said wiping at her eyes.

Quinn stood outside the bathroom and knocked loudly on the door.
“Jane, get your butt out here or I’m sending Stacy in through the window with her makeup kit.”
“I never agreed to this.” Jane said from behind the door.
“Come on it’s just a movie downstairs, Daria is wearing hers, you don’t want to be the only one not wearing one do you.” Quinn tried.
“Fine but if I’m scared for life, I’m moving in and you have to wait on me hand and foot.” Jane sighed and Quinn heard the door unlock and Jane opened the door and looked both ways in the hallway before stepping out.
“Why are we getting dressed up to watch a movie in your living room?” Jane started as Quinn dragged her down the stairs and into the living room.
“Because there is no way we would ever wear these in public.” Daria answered standing in the living room wearing her matching dress.
“Their very nice.” Quinn smiled.
“Yes they are but it shows off a lot of skin.” Daria said as she moved over on the couch to make room for Jane.
“I don’t know, now that I’m getting used to it, I really like them.” Jane said evilly after checking out Daria in the dress as she sat next to her and put her arm across the cushion and felt Daria lean against it.
“No getting fresh.” Daria said blushing as the previews started but she didn’t move away.

Stacy and Quinn sat on the floor in front of the couch and munched on popcorn when Stacy turned to Quinn and whispered.
“I’m not.”
“I know.” Quinn whispered back smiling.
“So you really want to be my friend even if I don’t want to …” Stacy whispered and got choked up.
“Yes and I still want to meet these cute guys you keep talking about.” Quinn pinched her on the arm.
“Deal.” Stacy said and leaned back against the couch.
“Why do I get the feeling it’s never going to get boring again?” Quinn replied with a grin as she pulled down a cushion and lean against it.

This is the last chapter I intend to do and it's been fun and honestly I hope the next story I post gets as many positive reviews.
One of the largest things I wanted to play with was. Would Daria be as antisocial without 3 years of middle school and 1 of High School to harden her against people in general. I think that Daria would be a little cocky but far more friendly then the one we all know and love. Quinn might still be fashion interested but I doubt she would be as obsessed as in canon. I figure that after 4 years as being treated and living almost as adults they would first have an us against everybody attitude and have the strength between them to do anything. I couldn't let them get away without having somekind of personal problem or the whole world would fall before them so I made Quinn happy hyper and gave Daria a drinking problem. I wanted to do a story that allowed me to explore what directions the girls might have gone in without peer-pressure to push them where they ended in canon and unlimited time to build themselves. Quinn almost as smart as Daria and with her own self and honestly I think she could be an wonderful character to write an AU where there is just one Morgendorffer daughter named Quinn. I might have to write that one day.
A happier Daria was fun to play with to.
No insults intended no apology offered and thank you to mman for the great ride.