Three

“You have to admit you had a good time.” Jane laughed from the passenger seat of her best friend’s car.

“Ok it wasn’t a complete waste of time.” Daria sighed as she tried to maintain her driving while talking.

:Driving is never going to be a strong point for me.: Daria thought ruefully as she steered the late model ford toward Lawndale.

“Thanks for driving down to pick me up and everything.” Jane smirked.

“Like I had a choice, I really want to go and we could go together. It’s been two months since we’ve seen each other.” Daria quoted from her friend’s telephone call three days prior.

Jane stretched in the seat and chuckled.
“Ok guilty of using excessive guilt to get a chance to meet some college guys.” Jane admitted.

“I can’t believe I have to spend the night back home.” Daria groaned.

“Sorry but Wind and his current wife moved in and Penny is planning to winter at home until her leg gets better.” Jane apologized.

“Mom and Dad want me to let Quinn stay in Boston over spring break so they can spend the week on a cruise. I think the bribes will start tomorrow before I head back up.” Daria said, trying to explain why she didn’t want to go home.

“So are they going on their trip?” Jane asked.

“I really don’t want to see Quinn for one night, let alone for a week. I keep telling them to come up with other arrangements but they think I’m holding out for a bigger offer.” Daria sighed.

“So the princess is still on your last nerve.” Jane chuckled.

Daria didn’t answer but Jane knew better than to try to push any conversation concerning Quinn. The car traveled down the road until the spotted the exit signs for Lawndale and Daria slowed to take the exit.

“I was thinking, we could grab a hotel room tonight.” Jane offered. “Split the cost.”

“Nah, it’s hard enough to convince people we aren’t sleeping together already. If we shack up in town I might as well get a rainbow shirt and roommate named Maureen.” Daria laughed.

“Are you afraid of our love?” Jane asked innocently.

Daria groaned and said. “Comments like that are why I make you sleep on the floor.”

“Are you going to call him?” Jane asked with a smile.

“Who, oh Mark. Nah he’s cute and all but it was like talking to Kevin. I suppose he could be useful for carrying heavy objects.” Daria answered.

“He gave you his number; why not take him for a ride around the park.” Jane said making sure to stress the right word.

“Why are you so concerned about my sex life or lack thereof? Is there something you want to tell me?” Daria demanded.

“No, not till moving day. I am expecting you to have someone I can borrow so be prepared.” Jane replied with a grin.

They pulled up to the traffic light and waited for it to change.

“So you dropping me off at home or do I have to walk for casa Morgendorffer?” Jane asked in a teasing tone of voice.

“I’m thinking of dropping you off right here if you don’t stop.” Daria warned.

Neither girl saw the lights that barreled down the off ramp until it was too late.

“DARIA GO!” Jane screamed.

Traffic blocked her from trying to cross the street and the headlights filled the rearview window.

The crash of metal on metal exploded around them and the smaller car was slammed into traffic by the U-Haul truck that never touched it’s brakes until after the impact.
The back of the car disintegrated under the force generated and the Ford spun around as the girls were thrown against their seat belts and both airbags went off. Daria felt her glasses break against her face, next came the second impacts from oncoming traffic. On car drove into the passenger fender while the other struck the rear passenger door. The car rolled over onto its roof and the air bags started deflating.

“Daria.” Jane’s voice said weakly.

Daria looked over and saw her friend hanging from the seat belt same as she was but it was clear she was far more injured. Daria released her seat belt and fell to the roof of the car then crawled next to Jane and tried to release her seat belt. That was when she found the blood, the roof under her friend was covered in it and the seat belt release was slick with blood and she felt her heart sped up even more.

“Jane talk to me.” Daria begged as she managed to get the seat belt released and Jane dropped on top of her with a grunt.

“What happened?” Jane said as Daria started trying to crawl backwards while dragging Jane.

“Some one hit us. I’m getting us out of the car.” Daria said as she ducked to get around the shattered window on what had been the driver side door.

“Oh, ...I don’t feel so good.” Jane said weakly and she began to cough.

“Please just hold on.” Daria said as she felt concrete against her legs and felt the glass cutting her.
She pulled her friend away from the car as people ran around trying to offer help. It took almost a minute before anyone gained their senses enough to see them.



“Paramedics are on the way.” A woman said approaching them.

“My friend is really bleeding, do you have something I can use to stop it.” Daria asked as she cradled Jane in her lap.

“I have towels in my car.” The woman said and she dashed away.

“Daria.” Jane said weaker than more.

“Just hold on.” Daria said and she heard the first of the sirens.



They were taken in the same ambulance to Lawndale General where both were taken straight back and Daria started to feel her body again.

:Lets see, I have 50 stitches on my legs, ten staples on my arm and two broken ribs and my best friend is dying in the next room. Great night out.: Daria thought as she was quickly treated.

She heard the doctor speaking outside the treatment room she was in.

“We’re out of blood! Look that girl in there needs a transfusion or she’s going to die so start testing staff if you have to.” The doctor barked.

“We’re doing that now but the girl is B- and that’s going to make things a little harder. If she was a positive Rh we would be ok but right now it’s not looking good.” Someone out of sight was answering.

:Wait, I’m B-.: Daria thought.

“Hello, I’m B-.” She called out loudly.

She couldn’t make out details but she saw two people enter her room.

“I’m B-, hook me up and take as much as Jane needs.” She said calmly.

She heard the seconds tick away and was about to start arguing when the doctor spoke.

“Get her on a saline drip and keep her hydrated and get a transfusion kit up here now.” He ordered.
The other man didn’t argue.

It was hours later when she started to recover from the various shots they gave her after taking as much blood as they dared, and she offered more.

She was rolled into a recovery room and watched as Jane was placed on a bed and advised the other was for her.
She wheeled next to the bed and reached up and took Jane’s hand and squeezed it gently and was surprised to have her hand squeezed back.

“Hey lazy, you made it.” Daria said as tears rolled down her cheek.

“I just wanted a nap, jeez you think someone was dying.” Jane joked weakly as she took in all the tubes and wires attached to her body.

“Well you sprang a leak but don’t worry they topped you off with some Morgendorffer premium and everything is going to be ok.” Daria cried.

“I thought I was feeling cynical. I’m going to take a nap, wake me when it’s spring.” Jane said as her eyelids started to close.

“No problem.” Daria nodded.

“Thanks.” Jane said and then her eyes closed and her breathing changed almost at once and Daria knew her friend was asleep.



Daria allowed the nurses to help her into the other bed before asking for a phone and she started dialing the number and waited for someone to answer.
:Of course I get the machine.: She thought rudely.

“Hey Mom, Dad. First I’m ok but I got into a car accident on the way to drop off Jane and we’re at Lawndale General and it looks like they’re keeping us for the night. I wouldn’t hate someone coming to check on us.” Daria said hoping that someone would pick up.

She had just slid the phone back onto the table next to her bed when the blur she now associated with the doctor came into the room and after checking on Jane he moved to the foot of her bed and stared at her.

:Uh oh.: She thought as he prepared himself to speak.

Part 2
Daria sat next to Jane’s bed and watched her sleep as the sun rose outside.

:This changes everything. I can’t believe it but it’s all there and it doesn’t leave any room for doubt.: Daria thought peacefully.

The sounds of raised voices reached her as she heard her mother demanding to be taken to her daughter. Her father was ranting about bad drivers and Quinn just seemed to be trying to keep him calm.

:Last thing I need is for him to have a heart attack before I get some answers.: Daria thought as the hurried footsteps moved closer and closer.

“Ah you’d be the Morgendorffers. Good I was just getting ready to check on your daughters.” She heard the doctor say out in the hall.

“Is Daria ok?” Her mother demanded.

“Daria and Jane are fine; Daria got some stitches and a few broken ribs. Jane on the other hand suffered some internal damage but we have it all patched up but I’ll need to talk to you about donating some blood in case she needs more.” The doctor said flatly.

“How bad is it?” She heard her father ask.

“Well we did a transfusion from Daria over to Jane and it saved her life honestly. It’s lucky they’re sisters or we would have lost Jane.” The Doctor replied.

“What?” Jane said from the bed next to her distracting Daria from hearing her family’s response.

“Stay calm, I don’t know all the details yet.” Daria sighed as she returned her attention back to her best friend.
:Sister.: Daria reminded herself.

“He just said we were sisters. Are you trying to sneak me onto your parents insurance or what?” Jane asked as she struggled to sit up.

“I gave you a blood transfusion and afterwards they finished all these blood tests to prepare for any problems that might pop up and it showed we’re related.” Daria explained as she ran a hand through her own messy hair.

“What?” Jane gasped.

“Apparently we share at least one parent, most likely the father.” Daria groaned slightly as she felt fear. Her parent’s marriage was most likely ending out in the hallway.

“Is this a joke?” Jane demanded.

“No, we’re sisters, half sisters but it explains a lot.” Daria sighed as she brushed Jane’s hair away from her wide eyes.

“But … How … when … are they sure?” Jane sputtered.

“Ran the test a third time when I asked, 99.8 percent chance we have the same father, law only needs 90 in this state to determine paternity so that’s good enough for me.” Daria informed her.

“I’m sorry; I was going to break it to you a little easier than this.” Daria said as she grasped Jane’s hand.

“No this makes so much sense, I’m not a Lane, I hate hippies and butterflies and you’re artistic and not in a do nothing kinda way like my family. Can I change my name?” Jane ended in a smirk.

“Well you are assuming that Jake is the father, we don’t know that yet.” Daria deadpanned.

“I can hope can’t I.” Jane chucked then moaned as she pulled on her stitches.

“Careful, one of your ribs hit a lung, you need to stay still.” Daria warned with a worried look.

“Got it sis.” Jane nodded. “Damn that just feels right.”

“I know.” Daria agreed.

The sound of people entering the room turn their heads and they watched as a shellshocked Quinn followed by her parents and the doctor entered the room. Daria noted that her parents were holding hands and looking pretty calm.

“Daria, Jane I guess we have something to tell you.” Helen started.

“Jane is my half sister, so who’s my dad and hers to I guess.” Daria said more hostile than she intended.

“Eep.” Jake said nervously.

“Jake is your father and Jane’s. We didn’t know it was you Jane, we lost contact with your mother, Starshine years ago.” Helen explained.

“Starshine, my mother’s name was Starshine?” Jane fumed.

“We don’t know if that was her real name but it was what we knew her as.” Helen sighed.

“So Mom … Amanda and Vincent are what exactly?” Jane demanded.

“I don’t know kiddo, you weren’t even born yet the last time I saw your mother.” Jake shrugged weakly.

“So you just ran off on a woman who was pregnant with your kid.” Daria’s tone stayed in the hostile range.

“Daddy wouldn’t do that, right daddy.” Quinn butted in.

“She didn’t want me and Helen around, said we didn’t have the right spiritual frame of mind to raise a child into the struggle.” Jake answered.

“Great another hippie.” Jane groaned.

“Jane dear, we wanted to take you and raise you with the child I was pregnant with and Starshine found out that we were preparing to file for custody after you were born and disappeared beforehand.” Helen said nicely.

“So you wanted me, to raise me with Daria and Quinn.” Jane said surprised.

“Of course we did.” Jake said strongly.

“Wow.” Jane said.

“We setup accounts for your schooling and paid child support into it all these years. We hoped that maybe one day Sarah would want to find us.” Helen sighed.

“WHAT?” Daria and Jane both exclaimed.

“That’s what Starshine said she was going to name you.” Jake replied.

“Sarah, Sarah Jane. It fits.” Quinn added.

“I need an aspirin.” Jane said as she raised a hand to her forehead.

“So I have two big sisters.” Quinn asked the room.

“Yes.” Daria answered. “Or as you say cousins.”

“I hate to interrupt but I need to examine Jane and Daria and it looks like they need some rest as well. Daria will be able to go home tomorrow as long as she takes it easy and if things go well Jane can go home in a few days. I assume there will be someone to take care of her.” The doctor said.

Jane blushed and studied her hands.

“Of course, she’ll come to our house and as Daria will be needing to get back to school. I think Jane should move into her room.” Helen said not missing a beat.

“Really.” Jane said surprised again.

“Yes and no arguments.” Helen said forcefully.

“I guess I can put up with regular food and a TV that works on more than three channels for while.” Jane responded sarcastically.

“Ok, now get out of here so I can check them out. You can come back in about an hour and visit.” The doctor ordered.



Daria and Jane waited allowed the doctor to check them out and after about 10 minutes he was done and ordering both of them to rest and take it easy.

“I thought it was going to take longer?” Daria mused.

“I figured you two might want some time to talk.” He shrugged as he left the room.

“Someone is booking for a big tip.” Jane joked.

“So how are you doing?” Daria said retaking her seat next to Jane’s bed.
Jane laughed out loud and then answered.

“Lets see, I almost died, my best friend is my sister. My parents aren’t which doesn’t surprise me in the least but I wonder if Trent knows. My real Dad and his family are willing to take me in and take care of me when I’m hurt and I just found out my name might be Sarah and my worries about paying for school just might be taken care of. All in all a pretty good day.” Jane smirked looking happy.

“Well I’m freaking out a little but it really puts those rumors about us in High School in a really sick and weird light.” Daria said ruefully.

“Screw em. And I mean that literally and all the rumors will disappear.” Jane said snarky.

“I guess you’re the big sister now, as your birthday is in the summer and mine is in November.” Daria mused.

“If that’s even my real birthday and not one that my parents. I mean Amanda and Vincent gave me.” Jane said sadly.

“It’s ok to think of them as your parents, they did raise you.” Daria advised.

“No they didn’t, Trent did. I’ve been lied to my whole life, I could have been happy like you and Quinn but everyone did everything they could to keep me from anything that resembled a normal life. I’m trying not to hate them.” Jane admitted.

“I’m sorry.” Daria said honestly.

“What happened to my real mom and how did I end up with the Lanes and why didn’t they tell me? I need some answers Daria.” Jane groaned.

“I can help some; the library at Raft has access to birth records and such for the entire country so I can find out where you were born if we know what name is on the birth certificate or the day. Something to narrow the search down with.” Daria offered.

“I need to call them and Trent and let them know where I am.” Jane said sadly.

“I did, Trent wasn’t home but I got him on his cell. He was in heading back here but it’s going to be this afternoon before he gets into town.” Daria answered.

“So did you tell them about this?” Jane asked.

“I didn’t know at that point, I just told Wind and yo.. Amanda that you were here and hurt.” Daria replied.

“And they didn’t bother to show up.” Jane looked pissed. “So how did you find out?”

“The doctor came in to talk about my high blood pressure and suggested I learn to relax more and I mentioned we were coming back from a party and he said that it was nice for sisters to hang out like that. Needless to say, I freaked out and he explained and I fainted and he woke me up and explained everything to me again and well I spent the night working it out in my head and you know the rest.” Daria said.

“This is going to be a busy holiday season isn’t it.” Jane tried not to laugh.

“I know this is going to sound wrong but I’m happy you almost died.” Daria said looking embarrassed.
Jane shook her head and replied. “So am I.”

“We are really screwed up aren’t we?” Daria deadpanned.

“What do you expect with this soap opera instead of a life we live?” Jane shrugged.

“You know what this really means don’t you?” Daria said looking concerned.

“What?” Jane asked.

“Quinn is your sister too.” Daria answered.

“I can deal, but I am really thinking about changing my last name.” Jane said.

“Sarah Morgendorffer, works.” Daria said trying to sound like Quinn.

“Sarah Jane Morgendorffer.” Jane laughed. “This is all to fast.”

“Well you aren’t at the court house yet so relax. The answers will come.” Daria said patting Jane’s hand gently.

“You better believe that.” Jane swore.
:Come hell or high I'm getting those answers or it won't be butterflies I'm ripping parts off of.: Jane thought rudely.

Part 3


It was sometime after 6 pm and Helen and Quinn had gone to get dinner for the group to eat at the hospital giving Jane and Daria a chance to interrogate Jake concerning Jane’s mother. Daria was wearing a spare pair of glasses that Helen had brought from the house that was more tape then frame.

“So it was ok for you to date my Mom while you were married to Helen!” Jane gasped when some of the details sank in.

“It was another time.” Jake tried.

“When did you find out Starshine was pregnant?” Daria asked.

“Well it was a month after we found out about you, sweetie. We got back to the commune and Starshine was pregnant and already starting to show and that was March or April I think.” Jake said thoughtfully.

“Wait a second, lets say March so there is no way my birthday is in June.” Jane did the math.

“No I guess not, I would think late September or early October.” Jake mused rubbing his head.

“I really don’t even know when my birthday is.” Jane said starting to look shocked.

“We will find out, that’s why we’re pumping dad for information so we can starting finding out about everything.” Daria said and she waved for Jake to take Jane’s hand.

“Anything I know kiddos, I tell you.” Jake said as he scooped up Jane’s hand.

“Do you know when her birthday was, Starshine?” Daria asked.

“No.” Jake sighed.

“Where did all this take place?” Jane asked.

“Texas, on a commune down south about 50 miles from the border.” Jake answered.

“JANEY. JANEY.” Trent’s voice filled the hallway.
Daria got up and moved to the door slowly and waved down the hall.

“Trent, we’re in here.” She called out.

Trent’s boots could be heard stomping down the hallway and Jane was greeted with a sight of her brother looking terrified as he entered the room.
Daria grabbed Trent’s arm and held him back long enough for her to explain her condition briefly.

“She’s really beat up so be gentle, no bear hugs.” Daria warned.

“Got ya.” Trent said and he quickly moved next to the bed.

“Hey sleepy.” Jane smiled at him and felt her heart break. The only person who had ever really been family for her, wasn’t and she didn’t want to lose him.

“Hey what’s wrong?” Trent said as Jane’s eyes started tearing up.

“I don’t know how to say it. You’ll always be my brother right, even if you weren’t right?” Jane said as she started to cry.

“What are you talking about Janey?” Trent said as he sat on the edge of the bed and gently hugged her.
Jane couldn’t talk and she pointed at Daria as she wiped the tears away. Trent turned and looked pleadingly at Daria and she sighed loudly.

“He might know some of it already.” Daria sighed again.

“Trent, Jane needed blood and I have the same blood type so I gave her my blood.” Daria started and had to fight the urge to start swooning over the proud/grateful look of admiration he was beaming at her.

“Well they tested the blood and found out something interesting.” Daria paused.

“Whatever it is, I’ll get a job and we’ll get you the best treatment we can.” Trent promised, jumping to the wrong conclusion.

“No, she’s fine. Trent we found out that Jane and I have the same father.” Daria decided to jump in feet first.

“What?” Trent said surprised.

“Ya, Jake. And Jake knew Jane’s mother and it wasn’t Amanda.” Daria finished.

“Whoa, that’s heavy. Are you sure?” Trent said looking surprised.

“Pretty sure and well we were wondering if you knew anything about this.” Daria added.

“No, I remember when they brought Janey home, I kinda of figured that Dad wasn’t her real dad you know since he had been in Africa for a while but I thought Mom was, you know her Mom.” Trent sighed.

“So do you remember anything, like when this was?” Daria pushed.

“June, that’s why Janey’s birthday is in June. Mom just said we had a new addition to the family. She was at least a couple of months old at that point, more like 6 maybe.” Trent struggled with his memory.

“Great another wall.” Jane groaned.

“Sorry Janey.” Trent said crestfallen.

“It’s ok; at least you gave us some more information. So on the whole big brother thing.” Jane said her eyes pleading.

“Doesn’t matter what bloods says, you and me are family.” Trent said and he started humming.

“Blood says, heart tells.” Trent started and both girls had been around enough to know that lyrics were being created.

“That kinda of makes you Daria’s ….” Jane started.

“I will smother you with a pillow, do NOT even go THERE.” Daria said quickly not letting her finish.

“That would be kinda sick, so you are still my brother but not Daria’s even though we’re sisters.” Jane smirked.

“Cool.” Trent nodded.

“Trent we also need you to dig out any information at your house you might be able to get, adoption papers, birth certificates anything that might give us more information. And maybe have Amanda drop by here or should we wait until you moved into the house.” Daria said pacing the floor and pausing to look at Jane.

“Unless she stops by on her own I think that can wait until I get to your house and get back some strength.” Jane said.

“YOUR house too.” Jake pushed in firmly.
Jane started crying again.


It was a week later when the first bits of information started pouring in.
Jane was talking on the phone to Daria in Boston.

“So my social security number is a dead end.” She asked.

“And most likely invalid since it shows the Lanes as your birth parents.” Daria’s voice came over the speaker phone.

“Any good news?” Jane sighed.

“Well there were thousands of girls born the same year as us, tens of thousands and even with narrowing it down to a three month section the number is staggering. Now only 60 mothers with a Star name but Starshine might have used her real name so that doesn’t help much. The birth certificate that the school had on record was a fake and a bad one at that. I did find four Sarah Jane’s that were born in Texas during the window we think you were born in.” Daria said.

“We don’t know if either of those names are what was given to the hospital.” Jane sighed.

“Well, one strikes me as odd and stands out, you might want to sit down, one of them, the mother died during childbirth as a Jane Doe and the baby disappeared from the hospital and the police think the mother’s friends took it.” Daria said calmly.

“Died.” Jane choked.

“Ya and it was right next to a large commune in north Texas and it was written up as hippies trying to keep another hippies kid from being raised square.” Daria said carefully.

“It fits so is there any way to narrow it down or confirm it.” Jane sighed again.

“I’ve written the records office down there and requested they seen me any information and it looks like they’re going to fax me everything they have so maybe when I get down there next weekend we can start putting together the clues but I think then might be the time to talk to Amanda.” Daria answered.

“Yep. Thank you for this Daria.” Jane said, her voice warm and honest.

“Hey that’s what sisters do right.” Daria chuckled.

“Ya.” Jane said distracted by a noise in the hall.

“Well I got class so you slackers take it easy and tell everyone I said hi.” Daria deadpanned.

“Sure and I’ll give Trent your love.” Jane smirked.

“Jane I w..” Daria started but was cut off when Jane hung up.


Jane moved to the door and looked down the hall and heard Quinn in her room.

:Princess must be home from school.: Jane thought and moved down the hall slowly using the wall to help balance herself and knocked on the door gently but it still swung open.

“Hey thought I heard someone come in.” Jane said cheerfully.

“Hi Jane.” Quinn said, she was sitting on the corner of her bed and it was clear something was wrong.

“Was wondering if you wanted to rent some movies tonight or something. If you didn’t have a date.” Jane said nicely.
Quinn looked up at her strangely and Jane felt a need to explain.

“I’ve always been the baby and now I have a little sister and well I want to hang out, get to know you.” Jane shrugged.

“See if there is something more than a fashion queen you mean, no thanks.” Quinn said bitterly.

“Hey easy, look it was just an offer but it’s there, if you want.” Jane said carefully with her hands up.

“Where’s your cane?” Quinn asked suddenly looking at Jane's empty hands.

“Um I think I left it downstairs last night.” Jane started.

“Jane, you know the doctor doesn’t want you to risk falling.” Quinn scolded her gently.

“I’m fine.” Jane defended herself.

“You’re worse than Dad and Daria combined. C’mon.” Quinn said getting up and putting Jane’s arm around her shoulder and helping her back to her room.

“Sorry it just gets lonely so I wander and while I used to be ok with being by myself now it bothers me. I like having family around that cares. People to talk to and all that.” Jane said bumping heads with Quinn gently.

“Can we watch Gone with the Wind tonight?” Quinn asked.

“Sure, big fire, implied bloody battles but the popcorn gets salt and butter.” Jane smiled.

“Deal.” Quinn replied.
Quinn helped Jane into her room and Jane sat down on the bed and smiled.

“So what’s up?” Jane asked.

“Huh?” Quinn said looking confused.

“Well the fashion club broke up so how is this year going for you?” Jane asked as she stretched out on the bed.

“Well, I’m not dating as much because I want to get my grades up and it’s working, 3.6 for the year so far and I’m also getting ready to take my SATs. Sandi is dating some guy that she doesn’t want anyone to know about and is missing in action most of the time and Tiffany seems to have gone goth and is hanging out with that crowd talking about unweaving the future and Stacy is working off her community service for drag racing. Who would have thought she would have a need for speed. We get together and joke about how I’m a brain and Tiffany is a goth and Stacy is a gearhead and Sandi is dating a mysterious stranger but it’s not the same.”

“Sounds like you guys are growing up.” Jane nodded.

“It’s just I made so many people miserable for so long that no one else wants to hang around with me now.” Quinn said and Jane noticed the way the younger girl bit her lip.

“Well that happens but I think if you keep trying to be nice and stop looking for a best friend then it might happen faster.” Jane said casually.

“I hope.” Quinn said looking sad.

“Hey you found a new sister and you weren’t even looking for one.” Jane joked.

“Ya. I’m sorry about your mom. I heard Daria said she died.” Quinn said looking down at the floor.

“We don’t know yet but honestly I think that’s her so thank you.” Jane said warmly.

“Trent’s being real nice coming over and helping, I hear he got a job at the mall teaching guitar.” Quinn stated.

“He wants to move out, says he feels lied to like me. We’re still family though and that’s nice. I don’t think anyone else is going to feel that way when this comes out.” Jane said looking depressed.

“So they still haven’t come to check on you yet. It’s been a week.” Quinn moved to the bed and hugged her new older sister warmly.

“I think everyone there knows, that’s why they didn’t feel a need to stick around to raise me or anything.” Jane sighed.

“Well if I know Mom and Dad at all, you are stuck with them for the rest of your life so I hope you really wanted family.” Quinn said evilly.

“I can’t wait for another chapter of Helen and Rita try to one up each other.” Jane laughed and then grimaced.

“Here let me check.” Quinn said and she lift Jane’s shirt.

The wrappings around the staples in her side were well past the point when they should have been changed and Quinn sighed loudly.

“Lay down, I need to change this and clean the whole thing.” Quinn ordered.

“I can do it.” Jane replied.

“Sure you can, that’s why you didn’t change the bandage yesterday, right.” Quinn said with a disapproving tone.

“I forgot.” Jane admitted.

“Lay down.” Quinn said forcefully as she pulled the box of supplies that they had acquired for changing the wrappings and caring for the injury.

“Yes sis.” Jane chuckled and complied.
She didn't see Quinn's smile.

Part 4
Daria walked into the house after a 6 hour straight drive and dumped her bags down at the foot of the stairs that she started to climb.
She heard voices coming from her old room and sighed as she heard Quinn’s laughter.

:I swear to god if you are giving Jane a hard time I will toss you out the windows at the end of the hall.: Daria thought as she picked up her pace and entered the room.

It took a few seconds for her brain to process what she was seeing. It looked like Quinn was painting Jane who was wearing one of Quinn’s dresses.

“Hi amiga.” Jane smiled.

“Hey Daria.” Quinn said nervously.

“Hey.” Daria responded. “What did I just walk in on?” She asked shaking her head.

“Oh I’m giving Quinn painting lessons to help her art grade.” Jane shrugged.

“And I’m doing a study of formal wear.” Quinn said and turned the easel around for Daria to see.

“Great.” Daria said without looking at it.

“You look beat.” Jane said with a frown.

“Yes, can I borrow my old bed for a few hours.” Daria laughed.

“Ok but don’t drool on my pillow cases.” Jane joked.

“I make no promises.” Daria said as she climbed into the bed and kicked off her boots.
Jane and Quinn quietly slipped out of the room as Daria dropped to sleep within seconds.

Jane turned to Quinn who was heading for her room and asked. “Are you ok?”

“Ya, just a little tired myself.” Quinn sighed.

“Well I’ll be downstairs watching all four Harry Potters by myself then. I hope the smell of popcorn doesn’t keep you awake.” Jane answered with a grin.

“I’ll be down in a few.” Quinn grinned and headed to her room. “Don’t forget to take your cane.” She added.

Jane sighed and retrieved her cane and started down the stairs making sure to avoid Daria’s bags on her way to the couch.

“Hey kiddo.” Jake said as she finished setting up the movies and headed into the kitchen for popcorn.

“Hey Dad.” Jane smiled, it still felt funny to call him that but it made him beam.

“What’s the plan this evening?” Jake asked as she started the popcorn.

“Movie marathon, tonight is the Harry Potter series.” Jane answered.

“Is this a kids only event or can us old folks join in.” Jake asked.

“I don’t know … I think there is a rule about you old people watching movies or something.” Jane teased.

“I’ll order pizza.” He offered.

“Now that’s not fair, who told you my weak spot.” Jane laughed.

“C’mon Quinn should be down in a minute or two, Daria is crashing after the drive.” Jane said with a smile as she poured the first two bags into a bowl.

“At least the accident gave us an excuse to get her in a better car.” Jake joked.

“Ya that last one was terrible, I can’t believe the damage you’d of thought it was made of plastic from the look of it afterwards.” Jane sighed with a slight shudder.

“I still wish you hadn’t gone to the junkyard to look at it.” Jake worried over her.

“I needed to see it.” Jane shrugged as he carried the popcorn into the living room.

“Does Daria have anything yet?” Jake asked for the second time that day.

“Still the same, she has some pictures for you to look at and tell us if they’re Starshine and some information concerning the person in the pictures if they turn out to be my mom.” Jane answered.

“Well I can tell you one thing that Helen found out. You have never been adopted and nothing legal has been filed so it doesn’t look like the Lanes are your legal guardians or anything.” Jake said carefully.

“So they have been filing false paperwork all over the place and no one bothered to check it because it would have involved work.” Jane said as she saw Quinn come down the stairs in her night clothes.

“Hey are you planning on taking a nap on me.” Jane laughed.

“It’s four movies so I got ready for bed so I won’t have to when they’re done.” Quinn returned.

“Fine be that way but if you fall asleep it a pot of warm water for your hand.” Jane teased.

“Try it and I’ll dye your hair blond.” Quinn said evilly but with a smile.
Jake just smiled at the exchange and shook his head.


Daria heard a sudden roar from downstairs as she came awake.
“Expecto Patronum.” A voice called out loudly.

Daria groaned and slid off the bed and looked around the dark room. Jane had really moved in and her art supplies littered the room mixing with the various items Daria had left behind. One of her skulls had been painted with different colors and she realized it was the neuron pathways expressed artistically.

:Nice.: She thought. :I have a sister than I can get along with and she accepts me even before we were sisters.: Daria said smiling as she started down the stairs.

Jane and Quinn were watching one of the Harry Potter movies as her father snored on the floor.

“Hey sleepy head, you’re just in time for the end of part three or the beginning of part 4.” Jane said happily.

“You want this seat.” Quinn said indicating the seat next to Jane that she was currently in.

“No, it’s fine.” Daria said as she sat down in one of the chairs.

“Did you get some Zs?” Jane asked.

“Yes and thank you so how has this week been?” Daria asked.

“We went to see your old car or rather what was left and we were really lucky to make it out of there. The Lanes never bothered to adopt me or anything like that and me and Quinn have been hanging out and Trent has been visiting and he says he might have something for us this weekend.” Jane shrugged.

“Good. I hope Quinn hasn’t been trying to paint your toe nails or anything.” Daria smirked.

“Nah just watching some movies and I’ve been helping her study.” Jane shrugged.

“She’s been a big help in English and Art.” Quinn added.

“I’m surprised to see you here, isn’t there a guy throwing rocks at your window right now.” Daria teased.

“No, I..” Quinn tried.

“She’s hanging out with me and giving the guys a chance to fill their wallets.” Jane joked gently poking Quinn who smiled back at her.

“I hope she isn’t charging to much.” Daria deadpanned and then turned toward the TV so she missed Quinn’s sad expression but Jane didn’t.
Reaching over quietly Jane grabbed the younger girl’s hand and smiled understandingly at her and saw it did help.

“I’m assuming that you don’t want to talk till tomorrow but if I’m wrong just let me know.” Daria said without looking at them.

“Tomorrow is good.” Jane said not wanting to face what Daria might have for her today.

“Trust me, I haven’t even gone through it yet but I’m not looking forward to it. So is that Harry?” Daria asked still watching the movie.

“That’s Hermione, she’s a girl. Harry is the dark haired boy next to her.” Jane snickered as Quinn covered her mouth.

“Oh.” Daria replied as she took off her glasses and cleaned them.





The next morning Daria was woken up by Quinn gently waking up Jane early.

“C’mon lets go.” Quinn was saying quietly.

“I’m coming already.” Jane whispered as she got off the bed.

Daria watched the two leave the room and it was clear they were trying not to wake her up so she spied on them from the floor.

“It won’t take too long and you can go back to sleep.” Quinn said and Daria heard the bathroom light come on.

“How long are you going to be gone?” Jane asked Quinn.

“Just a few hours I hope, it’ll give you two time to hang out and Stacy can really use the help with the kids.” Quinn answered.

“How many hours does she have left?” Jane asked and Daria heard something being thrown away and water running.

“About 300 and the kids center is really being nice to her and not rubbing it in her face that she has to be there.” Quinn answered.

“Ouch.” Jane said.

“Sorry but it was stuck to a staple, you need to stop rolling over at night.” Quinn teased.

“I’m trying.” Jane defended herself.

“Ok that’s all done and you should be good till tomorrow but take it easy today.” Quinn scolded lightly.

“I promise.” Jane joked and Daria heard her returning to the room and watched her proceed directly back to the bed and climbing in.

:Ok so Quinn is helping Jane with her bandages I guess I should cut her a little slack for that.: Daria thought as she drifted back to sleep.



Later that day as Daria and Jane sat at the kitchen table with Jake and Helen, Quinn still out helping Stacy with her community service was still absent.

“Ok here is what I was able to find out about Miss. Jane Doe from Texas, she had a baby, lived long enough to name her Sarah Jane. No last name was ever given and nothing was put on the birth certificate. She died about two hours after giving birth and Sarah Jane disappeared about three hours after that. I have some pictures of the mother but they were taken after she died so it might be best if Jane didn’t see them.” Daria said and slid a face down picture over toward Jake and Helen.

Helen picked up the picture and quickly showed it to Jake and then placed it face down and nodded.

“So it is her.” Jane said and grabbed some tissues for the tears she knew was coming.

“I’m so sorry kiddo.” Jake said and claimed one of Jane’s hands.

“Do we know who she was besides Starshine?” Helen asked Daria who nodded.

“Her real name was Margret Taylor, no relation to the ones we know.” She said to Jane.
“She didn’t have any living family at the time of her death, your birthday is September 30th and your real name is Sarah Jane with no last name. I found a possible link to the Lanes as well. Margret was arrested at a protest and released a few hours later about two months before you were born. A Vincent and an Amanda were given picked up at the same time. The records are pretty spotty and there weren’t any laws broken so the police just wanted to clear out the street to allow some bigshot access without having to deal with a bunch of protest signs so they didn’t book anyone and just got first names. Margret was an exception because they were worried she might need medical care for the baby.” Daria explained.

“So they knew her and when she died they took her baby and didn’t bother to try and find my real dad or family or anything.” Jane said as the sadness burned out and anger took it’s place.

“We don’t know that but the police would like a blood sample so they can close this case, it’s a cold file but they still would like an answer on it.” Daria sighed.

“No problem, are there still kidnapping charges or something pending.” Jane asked and her voice almost cut the air.
Daria shook her head no.

“Damn, so Trent is bringing Amanda by later right.” Jane said with a fierce look.

“Jane, or Sarah which ever you prefer listen to me.” Helen said calmly. “I am still holding a lot of anger about this inside. We never wanted to take her baby away, we just wanted her to realize that the life style she was living wasn’t the best for a child but she wouldn’t listen and she ran rather than fight and I hate her for that but don’t let it eat you up. The Lanes took you in and there is no doubt in my mind they thought they were doing the right thing. I can’t say I’m happy with the way they choose to raise you but at least they kept you from the streets or worse and that puts them in a good place in my heart even if what they did was wrong.” Helen finished.

“They should have told me.” Jane said firmly.

“Yes they should have but who knows what Starshine told them about me.” Jake offered.

“Ok I’ll give her a chance to defend herself but if she starts in on the hippie crap I’m chucking her out the front door and turning on the sprinklers.” Jane sulked.

“That’s fair.” Jake nodded.

“No sprinklers.” Helen said with a glare at Jake.

“I want to add Morgendorffer to my birth certificate.” Jane said as she held the photocopy that Daria had shown them.

“I don’t have any problem with that.” Helen said and Jake nodded with a grin.

“I also have the form to send in for your real social security number.” Daria said and slid another form over to Jane.

“Cool I can start off as a Morgendorffer with them.” Jane smiled.

“Expect to get audited,… a lot.” Helen sighed.




Quinn came home at dark looking worn out and fell onto the couch apparently taking no notice of her two older sisters on the floor.

“Hey sis.” Jane smiled.

“How did the Amanda meeting go?” Quinn said without moving.

“It hasn’t yet, Trent just picked her up. She forgot.” Jane said sarcastically.

“I think I’ll hide upstairs.” Quinn said followed by a weak effort to get up that failed.

“Hard day.” Daria teased.

“Those kids are really bored.” Quinn sighed.

“I thought you would get along well with them, same IQ and emotional level.” Daria teased only to have Jane snap a dirty look at her.

“Lay off her.” Jane warned and Daria decided discretion was the better part of valor after all.

“So do we know anything new?” Quinn said after a few seconds of painful silence.

“Daria found my mom. Her name was Margret Taylor aka Starshine and she had me on September 30th and my real name is Sarah Jane. No last name so I can pick Taylor or Morgendorffer or stick with Lane and I decided I’m going with Morgendorffer.” Jane grinned.

“Welcome to the family.” Quinn said with a weak arm wave.
Lights filled the front windows and Daria got up and walked to them and looked out.

“It’s Trent and he has Amanda.” Daria announced.

“Good, I have a few questions.” Jane said evilly.

Part 5

Jane fingered her cane and Quinn looked over and her exhaustion disappeared as she snatched it away and moved over to a chair.

“First talk then beating over the head.” Quinn scolded.

“Aagh.” Jane groaned.

Daria opened the door and Trent waved for Amanda to enter before him.
“Hello Jane. Are you enjoying your visit?” Amanda smiled.

“Visit. I live here now, maybe you might have gotten the idea when I had Trent bring all my stuff out of the house.” Jane growled.

“I hadn’t noticed.” Amanda said as she took a seat on the floor in front of Jane.

“Why does that not surprise me?” Jane groaned.

“Stay focused.” Daria advised.

“Good point. Well Amanda perhaps you could tell me my real name.” Jane said with a wide smile that chilled everyone in the room except for Amanda.

“It’s Jane.” Amanda said with a pleasant smile.

“Really because I have this birth certificate that says it’s Sarah, Sarah Jane.” Jane smiled coldly.

“Oh that’s right, it had been so long I forgot.” Amanda nodded.

“Who the hell are you?” Jane yelled suddenly.

“What?” Amanda asked looking confused as Daria and Trent both stepped forward. Preparing to stop Jane from rushing the sitting woman.

“I know you aren’t my mother and Vincent isn’t my father so why don’t we have something that doesn’t smell coming out of your mouth.” Jane demanded.

“Why are you so angry?” Amanda asked.

“Because I’ve been lied to my whole life.” Jane returned loudly.

“I never said I gave birth to you.” Amanda smiled.

“No you just kidnapped me from the hospital and kept me from my father all my life until now.” Jane sneered.

Jake and Helen entered the room looking worried but they stayed back.

“Your mother was a wonderful woman and she asked us to take care of you if anything ever happened to her. She was scared your biological father would find you.” Amanda admitted.

“Scared!” Quinn broke in looking furious.

“Yes he was a bad man who wanted to corrupt you away from a spiritual path and raise you in a traditional manner.” Amanda said looking disgusted at the thought.

“You mean where the parents take care of the kids and stick around for more than a month a year.” Jane laughed rudely.

“She wanted you raised with the beliefs we all shared.” Amanda replied.

“So it was her idea for you to drag me into that dysfunctional joke you call a family.” Jane demanded.

“We let you grow without interfering and look how well you turned out.” Amanda said looking pleased.

“Trent raised me, without him I would have been a wreak. Well I found my real dad and he wants to be there for me.” Jane declared.

“He isn’t our kind.” Amanda sighed and sounded like she was explaining something to a child.

“He used to be but he grew up. He has a great wife and two girls. I have two sisters that I never knew about and Trent still wants to be my brother.” Jane snarled.

“Who is he; your mother said he was the son of a murderer.” Amanda gasped looking frightened.

“Shut up!” Quinn said jumping up from the chair brandishing Jane’s cane threatening.

Amanda scooted backwards on the carpet alarmed.

“Quinn sit down.” Daria barked.

“Quinn please, I think we’re still at the talking stage.” Jane said nicely and held out her hand and pulled Quinn to sit down next to her.

“Sorry but that’s our grandfather you’re badmouthing.” Jane smiled sweetly.

“What?” Amanda said even more confused.

“Are you stoned or just stupid. Daria and Quinn are my sisters. In case you can’t put the rest together that makes Jake my father.” Jane said harshly.

“Jake and Helen.” Amanda said looking at the elder Morgendorffers that were moving into the room.

“Jake was with Margret, Starshine and he is Jane’s father.” Helen said.

“And our grandfather was a soldier not a murderer.” Daria added.

“You didn’t even come to visit me when I almost died. I sat up every night waiting for you to come and tell me the truth. To act like a mother but you didn’t even care. I could have died.” Jane said starting to cry.

Quinn wrapped her arms around Jane and murmured something softly as Daria joined them and hugged her tightly.

“I didn’t feel you were in any danger. You are over reacting.” Amanda chuckled.

“Feel, feel. I almost died. If Daria hadn’t been my sister and had the same blood type I would have.” Jane said bitterly.

“I think you need to leave.” Daria said quietly.

“Why?” Amanda asked.

“Because if I ever have to look at you again I think I might end up in jail.” Jane fumed.

“Oh I moved out this afternoon so you need to walk home.” Trent said refusing to look at his mother.

“So you both found out. I don’t know anything but your mother’s name Trent.” Amanda said.

“What?” Trent said looking up.

“Willow and I think the father was named Wolf or something like that.” Amanda sighed.

“Oh my god.” Jane said holding her hands over her mouth.

“She wasn’t ready to be a mother and I couldn’t let her take the child to the authorities so I offered to.” Amanda said like it all made sense.

“Get out.” Quinn said calmly.

“You need to leave now.” Jake said stepping next to his daughters as Helen guided a crushed Trent toward the kitchen.

“But I saved them.” Amanda looked from each of them.

“Ya, from a decent life. I am glad in one respect. Trent and I can still be family and take care of each other and that wouldn’t have happened if you weren’t such a nutcase.” Jane smirked.

“Get out.” Daria said looking toward the kitchen where Trent’s cries could be heard.

“I think my children should come with me.” Amanda said stepping forward.
Daria burst out laughing and Jane quickly joined in.

“Want me to suggest that to Trent?” Quinn giggled.

“We aren’t your kids and never were. I guess this explains why you never bailed out on Wind or Penny and Summer. Get out of here.” Jane laughed louder.

“We tried to give you the right kind of environment to grow into artists and continue the struggle.” Amanda said as she moved toward the door.

“I’ll kill her.” Jane said suddenly enraged.

“Daria get her out of here.” Quinn cried out as she grappled with Jane, trying to hold her on the couch without hurting her.

Daria shoved Amanda toward the door held her against the wall as she opened the door.
“Good bye and don’t write.” Daria stated as she shoved the woman out the door and slammed it shut.

She turned and saw that Quinn had gotten Jane calmed down with the help of their father and Helen seemed to have Trent quieted down as well.

“Well who gets to tell Ethan he has a big bother.” Daria smirked.
Quinn’s hand went up.


Trent was put to bed on the couch and his face told the whole story as Helen and Jane sat with him until he drifted off, it didn’t take long.
Daria was asleep on a camping cot by the time Jane made it up the stairs so she headed to Quinn room.

“Hi.” Quinn said sitting on her bed looking like she had survived a war.

“Hey. Want to talk about it?” Jane sighed as she grabbed Quinn’s desk chair then pulled in next to the bed and sat down.

“How can she be that crazy and no one noticed?” Quinn said in shock.

“I thought she was normal. Until I met Daria I never got a real good look at what a normal family was like.” Jane shrugged.

“I’m glad you’re my sister too. I know it’s funny but I love you.” Quinn blushed and looked embarrassed.

“Don’t be like that.” Jane laughed. “It’s not like you just declared romantic love for me and I love you too. We’re flesh and blood. Can I tell you a secret?” Jane lowered her voice.

“Ya.” Quinn said and nodded.

“Besides Trent I never liked my family. I used to think I had been switched at birth.” Jane chuckled.

“Everyone thinks that, you just happen to have been right.” Quinn smiled.

“What’s really bothering you Quinn?” Jane pushed.

“Daria.” Quinn admitted.

“Daria.” Jane repeated.

“I know I treated her really bad for a long time but I’m different now. She won’t let me apologize. I want to … I want .. us to be like you and her or you and me.” Quinn said sadly.

“She has trouble getting past … the past.” Jane shrugged.

“If she would just give me some sign that she cared.” Quinn said and her lip started to shake.

“Easy.” Jane said

Quinn suddenly broke down and curled into a tight ball on her bed and began sobbing.

“It’s no wonder no one wants to be my friend, my own sister can’t stand me anymore.” Quinn sobbed as Jane moved onto the bed and held the crying girl.

“She just needs some time to see the new and improved you.” Jane tried to reassure her.

“Why can’t she love me? I AM sorry and I love her.” Quinn cried against Jane’s chest.

“She does. I know it.” Jane said confidently.

She looked down and saw that Quinn had fallen asleep.
:Damn she really is just a kid.: Jane thought tenderly.



Trent showed off his new apartment with a flourish to the three sisters but he looked worse for the wear after the weekend.

“So how’s the band going?” Daria tried to cheer him up.

“Ok, pretty steady gigs but I keep asking myself the question. Am I really some kind of musician artist or is that all part of the lie.” Trent sighed as he dropped onto his ragged couch.

“I like your music.” Quinn said nicely.
Daria rolled her eyes but Trent looked up. “What part of it?”

“Well like that song about friends. It made me realize that while mine were ok they weren’t that kind of friend. And the song about being a dog was really cool.” Quinn answered without thinking.

“Cool.” Trent nodded.

“Are you crazy, we almost had him out of music. Now he’ll never stop.” Jane teased.

“I was going to say the end but she wouldn’t shut up.” Daria smirked.
Quinn’s smile dropped off her face.

“I need to reevaluate myself and my style of music.” Trent sighed.

“I’m doing the same thing. I love art and painting but I’ve always felt a need to go out of my way to be cutting edge or art for art’s sake instead of the love.” Jane sighed.

“Well it seems simple, spend some time doing what you love and see where it takes you.” Daria shrugged with a grin.

“We do that already.” Jane sighed.

“No you play for the band and you paint Jane Lane originals but you never just play and paint. Try it and see what happens.” Daria said looking between Jane and Trent.

“Play something for yourself and paint the picture you want. That’s brilliant.” Quinn said with a smile.

“Ya, that’s why you didn’t think of it.” Daria chuckled.

Jane saw Quinn’s face tighten and tried to flash her a warm smile as she thought.
:Me and Daria need to talk.:

Part 6


Jane sighed in disappointment as she waved to Daria driving away, they hadn’t had a chance to talk yet and it would be at least another week before she could return.
:She knows it too, that’s why she got BUSY.: Jane thought rudely and headed back into the house.
Jake and Helen were sitting at the table enjoying their Sunday morning.

“So she’s gone again, I think she’s enjoying being able to leave whenever she feels like it just a bit too much.” Helen said with a smile.

“Well it might make her visit more.” Jake tried to add a good side.

“Our daughter visiting just to enjoy leaving isn’t what I had in mind.” Helen sighed.
Jane took a seat and poured herself a bowl of cereal and dug into it.

“Out with it Jane.” Helen said after inspecting her body language.

“You’re good.” Jane said shaking her head amused.

“I pay attention.” Helen smiled.

“I really like staying here … and everything and … well … would it be a problem if I pushed back school until the next fall semester. I know it sounds trite but I kinda of need to find myself.” Jane said nervously.

“That would give us more time to hang out kiddo.” Jake beamed.

“Normally I would advise against it but under the current circumstances, it seems like a wise choice.” Helen agreed.

“And I can stay here.” Jane pressed gently.

“No offense but no daughter of ours is moving into that apartment with your brother. I wish he would let us help him out.” Helen sighed.

“This is your home now, even if you didn’t live here.” Jake replied.
Jane blushed and smiled causing Jake to pat her hand. “Get used to it.” He smiled.

“What are your plans today?” Helen smiled herself.

“Hang out with Quinn and visit Trent. Willow and Coyote called him and they talked a bit and apparently Ethan wants to meet him.” Jane shrugged.

“That’s good. I never knew she give up a child but at least she tried to do the right thing.” Helen sighed.

“I’m thinking about getting a job too, so I’m not sitting around thinking all the time.” Jane added.

“No rush, hey you could help out at the office.” Jake offered.

“Not a terrible idea and Jane’s ability with art could come in handy for presentations of ideas to your clients.” Helen said and Jane could tell she was trying to show it wouldn’t be charity.

“Umm I’ve never done that kind of thing before. Say part time about 20 hours a week.” Jane said thoughtfully at Jake.

“Sounds good.” Jake answered.

“Perfect and you two can spend some time bonding as well.” Helen nodded.

“Speaking of that. You still want to take me shopping.” Jane asked Helen whose smile shone out brightly.




“Wimp.” Quinn teased as the three woman walked through the mall.

“I’m tired and we have the entire trunk filled.” Jane complained.

“That card isn’t even smoking yet, wimp.” Quinn smiled.

“Be nice girls.” Helen laughed.

“Mooom.” Quinn groaned.

“C’mon squirt lets head toward the food court and eat then maybe we can talk about more shopping.” Jane grinned.

“Fine but the salads here are terrible.” Quinn whined.

“Good cause you ain’t eating one. I think it’s time you met bourbon chicken.” Jane said evilly.

“I don’t know, is this really the place to be experimenting with food.” Quinn said nervously.

“If you can survive Dad’s attempts in the kitchen I think you’ll live.” Jane said and chuckled to herself when she heard her own words.

“Well I’m going to pretend I’m Daria and get some pizza.” Helen said following behind them.

“Try the Carnivore, they swear it’s got at least 6 different animals on it.” Jane advised as she pushed Quinn toward the food court.

“I just realized something. The Yeager’s are vegetarians.” Quinn giggled.

“And Trent isn’t.” Jane snickered.

“I wonder how long until he has them worshipping meat.” Quinn laughed.

“Quickly I hope, they really need to step forward a bit. I hoped we helped some and then we can have them over for dinner again.” Helen sighed.

“Ethan eats meat; he had a chili dog when he went out with me.” Quinn added.

“Maybe you’ll get another date if he comes down to see Trent.” Jane teased nicely.

“I don’t know, I mean there are just so MANY guys out there that have the I’m too cool to care mixed with that whole get out of bed and be perfect thing going for them.” Quinn said sarcastically.

“Well I could put in a good word with his brother.” Jane cracked up.



“You can’t say I didn’t warn you.” Daria said into the phone.

“Oh stop, it was nice.” Jane replied.

“Better you than me, a day with my Mom is bad enough but add in Quinn and I would be begging for death.” Daria joked.

“Be nice, she’s been a big help.” Jane said flatly.

Daria got quiet for a few seconds.
“Maybe I could take some time off and help out some.” Daria said quietly.

“Nah, you need to stay focused at school and you’ve done a lot already.” Jane said warmly.

“I just want to help.” Daria sighed.

“You have and Quinn is helping too.” Jane said.

“I would have helped with the bandages and everything if I was there.” Daria added weakly.

“God, Daria tell me the truth, are you more jealous that I’m having the relationship you want with Quinn or that she’s having one with me.” Jane mused.

“Ouch. I’ll be down this weekend and we can talk.” Daria said and the line went dead.

:Perfect. Going to be a great week waiting.: Jane thought.

“Did you mean that?” Quinn said from the doorway.

“That we’re having the relationship that Daria wants.” Quinn replied.

“The stuff you used to do hurt her way to much. If she didn’t care then it wouldn’t have been a big deal. She’s just lashing out now and since you aren’t responding it’s like you’re ignoring her and it’s making her crazy so she’s pushing harder. That’s the sad part; she’s so desperate to have any kind of bond with you that even fighting is better than nothing.” Jane aired out her thought.

“But I don’t want to fight anymore. I want …well what you said. What you and her have.” Quinn sighed sadly.

“I’ll talk to her this weekend, I promise.” Jane said. “Now I have a craving for fast car movies and I think I hear a car pulling in.”

Quinn looked out the window in the hall and squealed as she saw.
“You invited Stacy over to watch movies.” Quinn said with a grin.

“Yep but expect to be bored by engine talk all night long.” Jane laughed.

“She is pretty serious about cars now.” Quinn said and she started down the stairs.
Jane followed at a slower pace shaking her head.


“That’s incredible.” Helen said breathlessly as she looked at the landscape Jane was painting.

“Thanks, I don’t do many but I’m experimenting.” Jane shrugged.

“Do you like Norman Rockwell?” Helen said looking at several paintings that Jane had done earlier.

“I’ve been studying some other art styles. I really liked the one of a painter painting himself so I had to try that, … I’ll replace the mirror.” Jane replied.

“Don’t worry about it. Can I have that landscape for my office when it’s done?” Helen smiled.

“Sure.” Jane said taken back.

“This one of Quinn eating alone in the lunch room, is everything going ok for her at school?” Helen asked.

“She’s readjusting and well so are her friends. She’s lonely.” Jane admitted.

“Then it’s good she has you.” Helen smiled.

“I kinda feel lucky to have her, and all of you.” Jane nodded.

“I see you’re signing them Sarah Jane Morgendorffer with the Jane extra large.” Helen said.

“Yep, I don’t think I’ll ever get used to being called Sarah but Morgendorffer just seems to fit.” Jane laughed.

“Sneaky that way aren’t they.” Helen chuckled.

Part 7

Jane started her employment at Morgendorffer consulting on Tuesday but Wednesday was her first real day at work.

“Ok Mr. Blum-Deckler this is what we came up with for your electronics store.” Jane said unveiling the picture she had made.

“I like the old electronics chasing the people only to be saved by the shiny new ones.” The short man said with a smile.

“Am I to assume that this means we have a deal?” Jake added.

“Yes it does, don’t screw up Morgendorffer I see good things in our future together.” The man said before signing the contract on the desk in front of him. He stood and held out his hand for Jake and then Jane.
Jake saw him to the door then returned and smiled widely.

“Did he just sign a 40 thousand dollar contact?” Jane stared at the paper in disbelief.

“Yes he did, thanks to your pictures.” Jake beamed and she felt herself blushing at the pride that was in his eyes.

:My father is proud of me.: She thought in amazement. :I needed this.:

They came home early with a stack of ribs and various takeout sides cheering the entire time.
Helen looked smugly.

“One week and Jake signed a major client. I see this as working out very well.” Helen smiled.

“Dad did all the hard work.” Jane said humbly.

“I don’t think so, the second he saw your marketing designs he was hooked.” Jake smiled.

“Way to go Jane.” Quinn said looking pleased.

“I can’t wait to tell Trent and Daria.” Jane smiled.

Helen smiled. “Daria called my office today and confirmed she would be coming down this weekend.”

“Good, Ethan’s going to be down and Quinn’s planning on spending the entire weekend flirting.” Jane teased Quinn who blushed brightly.
Helen and Jake smiled but didn’t comment.


Quinn looked through Jane’s newest paintings and moved to the bed and looked at Jane carefully.
“You like doing landscapes don’t you?” Quinn pressed.

“It’s just so normal.” Jane groaned.

“Really because I can’t be sure but I’ve never seen a Martian landscape that looked so real. You’re applying science to the paintings.” Quinn smiled.

“Well ya.” Jane shrugged.

“You’re making landscapes that people will never see and that’s something special. I’m not into art like you and Daria but I lose myself in those landscapes and that’s got to mean something.” Quinn sighed.

“Thank you.” Jane smiled.

“Let go of the whole I’m an artist thing and do what you like to do, like Daria said.” Quinn stated and her sadness leaked through.

“You’re pretty smart, you know.” Jane laughed.
The room got quiet and Jane sensed something coming so she waited.

“What was the worst thing I did to Daria, from her stand point?” Quinn asked suddenly.

“I don’t know, you’d have to ask her.” Jane answered looking uncomfortable.

“What was something bad?” Quinn sighed.

“The double date.” Jane answered. “She really thought it was a date.”

“How can I make that up? No matter what I say or do. How do I take that back?” Quinn said.

Jane shook her head that she didn’t know. “Ask her.”
Quinn nodded sadly.


Quinn sat reading at a lunch table with her finished plate pushed to the side when a voice spoke out next to her. A picture perfect vision of fashion contrasting with large book she poured over.

“Are you planning on ever returning that to the library?” A female voice said. She was wearing ripped pants and an old army jacket thrown over a black t-shirt and pointing at the history book Quinn was reading.

“This is mine.” Quinn answered and turned and saw the blonde staring at her.

“Oh really.” The girl said annoyed.

“Yes. The one at the library has been checked out since … all year so I bought my own.” Quinn replied.

“Damn, I have a report due tomorrow for world history.” The girl groaned.

“Well I don’t. Get it back to me tomorrow.” Quinn laughed and held out the book.
The girl looked stunned and gently took the book.

“Sorry to be a pain but be careful with it. I don’t want to shell out another 50 bucks for it.” Quinn smiled.

“No problem. Thanks.” The girl smiled.

“I’m going to hate myself later but weren’t you a senior last year?” Quinn asked.

“Yep and I didn’t have this book. I’m kidding. I spent a few too many years stoned and I flunked.” The girl shrugged.

“Sorry.” Quinn blushed.

“Don’t worry about it. It was an honest question. My name’s Jennifer Gray.” The blonde held out her hand.

“Quinn Morgendorffer.” Quinn smiled and shook her hand.

“Everybody knows who you are.” Jennifer said then frowned at Quinn’s face. “Hey I didn’t mean it like that.”
Quinn clenched her hands together under the table and nodded wordlessly.

“I’m sorry. I just meant that well you’re popular and so was your sister and her friend.” Jennifer said sliding into the seat next to Quinn.

“Sis..ter.” Quinn said fighting for control of her voice.

“What?” Jennifer said not understanding.

“Daria and Jane are both my sisters.” Quinn said after taking a deep breath and while her voice shook it didn’t break.

“I’ve lived here for years before you moved here and so has Jane. How is she your sister?” Jennifer asked confused.

“It’s a long story.” Quinn sighed.

“I got time and to be blunt about as many people to talk to as you.” Jennifer said carefully.

“It started with a car wreck.” Quinn said and she started talking.



Jane tried to scratch the stiffness out of the suit she was wearing and smiled at Mr. Landon across the table.

“Not to tell you your business but bringing your daughter along doesn’t scream professional.” Landon said as they took their seats in the restaurant.

“Jane is my daughter but she is also my visual elements expert as well as an idea man. You wanted to sketch out some ideas right. Well she can do that literally.” Jake said with a shrug.

“Good point. Let’s be honest here. I’m rich and I like it. I want to stay rich so that means not resting on one success and moving forward and getting new ideas. That’s where you come in.” Landon said smugly.
Jane watched as Jake paused and took a drink of water.

“I assume every firm you’ve been to has brought up the idea of building on the whole folding thing, plates silverware and so on. I’m assuming that’s not the direction you want to go in or you wouldn’t be here.” Jake tossed out casually.

“Well you just made the leap that took everyone else about two weeks to make.” Landon said impressed.

“I think he wants some advice from someone like he was, before he was rich.” Jane smiled at Jake.

“Two for two.” Landon tipped his glass toward her.

“The real question boils down to a few points. What are you interested in? How much risk are you willing to take? What are you willing to invest? And of course what kind of return are you looking for?” Jake mused.

“I’ve spent 18 months working with various firms and that’s been the stopping point each time. The answer to each of those questions depends on what the ideas are.” Landon admitted.

“Well we can come up with some ideas but some information will be needed to flesh them out.” Jake spun and Jane had to fight the smile that wanted to come.

“An example please.” Landon replied.

“Mobile internet. Lawndale has cell signal but not high speed cellular internet. If someone was to construct a tower and convince a national provider to allow them access to their network. Everyone who wants internet on the go would be lining up. You just resell the service that you buy from the larger provider.” Jane stated.

“The investment for this would be large but the return stands to be almost double, yearly.” Jake said.

“Haven’t heard that one yet.” Landon admitted.

“Also it allows for the selling of equipment to connect to your network.” Jake added.

“And as a tower owner you can lease space off the tower to other providers and transmitters to help cover your costs.” Jane said.

“Landon Cellular. I assume we could also offer cell phones and the like.” Landon mused.

“Of course and it would also allow for limited service offerings. For companies that want to be able to call their employees but don’t want to pay for the unlimited phone use.” Jake smiled.

“You can setup their phones on a closed network that can only call other phones on that companies approved list.” Jane added.
“A corporate cell solution, I could use that myself.” Landon said thoughtfully.

“And we can restrict internet usage based of company needs as well.” Jake said and he leaned back with a smile. “Now this is just an example to give you an idea. We’d have to crunch some numbers to give you.”

“I understand this is all on the fly but I like it. I think I have a new consulting firm. Do you also manage?” Landon asked.

“We can offer that if needed.” Jake said calmly.

“Work up the numbers. And to think I just called you yesterday.” Landon laughed.

“You saved the best for last.” Jane smirked.

“I think I did.” Landon agreed.



Helen and Jake were dancing in the living room when Quinn walked in and she sighed loudly.

“I guess their entitled every once in a while.” Quinn said amused.

“Hey squirt.” Jane said as she came out of the dining room with an armload of snacks and drinks.

“Hi Jane. Why are they so happy?” Quinn asked as she followed Jane up the stairs.

“Morgendorffer Consulting just landed another big client. Landon development.” Jane shrugged.

“Jodie’s dad! I guess he liked the folding plate idea.” Quinn said surprised.

“No, me and Jake talked a bit and we figured out that most likely Landon had been to other firms and well it was an easy bet that they had suggested that so we pounded out some ideas and came up with something he liked. If things go well Landon Cellular and Mobile Internet is going to be a big business.” Jane answered as she turned into her room and waved Quinn in.
“So no art on this one.” Quinn said thoughtfully.

“Nope but I liked it. Researching and finding out stuff. It was pretty cool and Dad was perfect. He hooked him just right and Landon is gaga at the moment. Long enough to sign a big contract.” Jane smiled.

“I still love it when you call him Dad.” Quinn laughed.

“It’s easy, I never had one before. Vincent wasn’t around enough and Trent did a great job but Jake’s a dad and I like having one.” Jane replied chuckling.

“Well you are stuck with us now.” Quinn countered.

“Good, how was school?” Jane asked.

“Not bad, aced a history test … and a math one. I met a girl today.” Quinn added.

“Cool.” Jane said warmly.

“She’s pretty cool, she was in your grade last year but flunked so she’s trying to really study this year.” Quinn answered.

“Just like you.” Jane pointed out.

“Yep. I told her about you and everything.” Quinn said sheepishly.

“I’m still a topic of conversation at high school, that’s scary.” Jane laughed.

“No, we talked and she mentioned you and Daria and I called you my sister and well then I had to explain.” Quinn shrugged.

“It’s fine. I’m just being nosy.” Jane assured her.

A single honk of a car horn made both of the girls smile.

“Daria’s home.” Jane said.

“Any advice?” Quinn said nervously.

“Ya, defend yourself. I’m going to talk to her but no matter what. You don’t have to let her take shots at you unanswered.” Jane said forcefully and Quinn nodded.

“Now let’s go greet our sister.” Jane joked.

Part 8

Daria sighed as she walked inside the house as Quinn carried her single bag and Jane joked about hiding the dirty laundry.

“I do know how to work a washer and dryer.” She said annoyed.

“Hello Daria, welcome home.” Helen smiled and walked over and hugged Daria briefly.

“Hey Mother.” Daria groaned.

“Hey there, all three of my kiddos are here at the same time.” Jake beamed and hugged her as well.

“I was just here a week ago.” Daria said trying to avoid anymore touchy feely moments with her parents.

“It’s been a busy week, I signed two new clients this week. Jane coming to work with me has been a miracle on the business.” Jake gushed.

“Ok.” Daria said looking concerned.

“She’s a wiz and not just at the art. She helped me come up with a proposal to wow a client.” Jake said looking pleased.

“That’s great.” Daria said weakly.

The phone started ringing and Quinn moved to answer it. Jane punched Daria on the shoulder with a grin.

“We’re going to see Trent do a solo at some new place and then hang out at his new place. You up for it?” Jane asked pleadingly.

“Sure.” Daria answered.

“Cool. We are going to have some fun. I’m getting the staples out Monday so I want to party hardy this weekend.” Jane stated.

“So Quinn is coming.” Daria sighed.

“That’s the plan.” Jane started with a frown.

At that moment Quinn returned to the room.
“Umm Jane, would it be ok to bail on you tonight? That girl I told you about with the history report due tomorrow is having some trouble and wants to come over and study with me.” Quinn said sounding slightly surprised.

“I guess I can stand to be without you for one night.” Jane joked.

“Girl right.” Daria grunted.

“It is a GIRL, her name is Jennifer and she was in your grade last year. Can I borrow your copy of a Practical View of History?” Quinn said looking at Daria.

“Sure I hope SHE’s cute.” Daria said smartly.

“Well she is, not that I like girls but she is pretty cute. I mean I would love to see her in another look but what she has works for her.” Quinn said missing the barb.

“It’ll be cool and if you want, call over to Trent’s apartment when you two wrap up for the night and maybe come over and hang out.” Jane said trying not to glare at Daria.

“I will.” Quinn smiled. “Thanks for letting me use the book.” She said to Daria.

Quinn moved out of the room heading back toward the kitchen and they could hear her talking on the telephone.

“Little brat.” Daria said harshly.

“Ya I know but I still love you.” Jane muttered.

At least Daria had the decency to blush.





Daria didn’t speak as they drove the directions that Trent had given her and Jane just waited.

“Maybe you have a point about me being a little jealous.” Daria sighed.

“Are you jealous of me or Quinn or both of us.” Jane fired off.

“Both. I would of helped if I’d been down here. I wish this had happened before I went away to school.” Daria admitted.

“Putting aside this problem. What’s wrong?” Jane pushed knowing there was more.

“It’s the same as high school. No that’s not true, it’s worse. Every class seems to grade on a declining curve and I’m the most hated person in three of my classes. My roommate keeps doing things like having the locks changed or stacking boxes in front of my bedroom door. Like it’s my fault her boyfriend is going to lose his scholarship for grade performance.” Daria sighed.

“Damn.” Jane muttered.

“I don’t talk to a single person for days. You can’t believe how much I look forward to calling home or chatting online and even coming home.” Daria said sadly.

“It’ll get better I hope.” Jane said honestly.

“Well after the holidays when you come up at least I’ll have someone to talk to.” Daria shrugged.

“Oh damn. I know there was something I forgot.” Jane groaned.

“What?” Daria asked with a worried look.

“I deferred my admission to BFAC till the fall. I wanted to take some time to find myself.” Jane admitted.

“When were you going to tell me about this?” Daria demanded.

“I forgot. I’m sorry.” Jane apologized.

“Gives you more time to spend with Quinn right.” Daria growled.

“You want to go there, FINE.” Jane said and she pulled the car to the side of the road and climbed out, walking around to the passenger side.

Daria got out and the two girls stood on the sidewalk in front of a strip mall.

“Do you know Quinn hasn’t gone on a date all year. Did you know that she doesn’t have any friends at the moment since her buddies are all out redoing their lives. You talk about you being alone, well so is she.” Jane said strongly.

“You know the hell she puts me through every chance she gets. I’ve tried Jane and you know it.” Daria countered.

“She’s been nothing but nice for … what 6 months and you’ve turned into a raging bitch over it.” Jane yelled.

“Why are you taking her side?” Daria demanded.

“Damn it Daria, Quinn’s my sister too.” Jane yelled back.

Daria just blinked and then took a step backward and leaned on the car.
“I know that.” Daria said weakly.

“She’s trying.” Jane sighed. “But you keep attacking her like a shark. Damn you pretty much called her a whore last weekend.”

“Do you really think I’m the bad guy here?” Daria said shocked.

“I think you two have been going at it so long that you’re running on autopilot and even though Quinn’s stopped and wants to make peace you keep firing away.” Jane said truthfully.

Daria just looked at the ground.

“She cries sometimes because she doesn’t think you love her. She begs me to tell her how to take it back and make it better. All the stuff she did, she’s sorry but you won’t give her a chance.” Jane pushed.

Daria turned and got into the car. Jane moved around and got in on the driver’s side.

“I need to think some. Lets just have some fun and go from there.” Daria said, her voice shaking.

“I love you Daria. Before we were sisters you were my best friend and you still are. I just want our family to be ok.” Jane sighed.

“I know.” Daria admitted looking ashamed.

“Ethan is going to be down tomorrow for the weekend. Quinn’s kinda of still crushing on him and Trent doesn’t have any gigs this weekend so we’re hanging out there most of the time since Dad has a surprised for Mom which involves them being gone for the weekend.” Jane shrugged.

“That’s nice.” Daria said weakly.

:Damn it. I would have preferred a knock down drag out fight to this.: Jane thought.




Daria and Jane froze in the doorway of the club unable to speak or move as the sight that greeted them was behind their ability to process.

“I drive by the homeless sleeping on the cold dark streets like bodies in an open grave.” Trent sang as he strummed out the tune on an acoustic guitar.

“Ok clearly I went insane at some point.” Jane muttered.

“While a mile away live the rich folk and I see how they’re living it up. While the poor they eat from hand to mouth the rich are drinking from the golden cup.” Trent sang.

“Oh my god.” Daria moaned.

“Give me something to believe oh lord above. Give me something to believe in. I wish to god I didn’t now, the things I didn’t know then.” Trent seemed to be wrapping up.

“So still over that crush.” Jane teased.

Daria blushed brightly and muttered. “Shut up Jane.”

Trent ended his song and waved to the crowd before standing from the stool he had been sitting on and step down of the stage.

“Lets go say hi.” Jane said and shoved Daria toward Trent and walked behind her.





Quinn opened the door and smiled. “Hi Jennifer. C’mon in.”

“Thanks I really need some help.” The blonde said looking overwhelmed.

“Don’t we all and some studying comes in handy too.” Quinn laughed.

“I can’t figure you out yet.” Jennifer laughed.

“Don’t try. I’m pretty far off the reservation these days.” Quinn chuckled as she walked with Jennifer to the dining room where Quinn had setup several books and snacks.

“Oh crap that looks like a lot of work.” Jennifer sighed.

“Take a smoke break out back and de-stress some and we’ll get started.” Quinn shrugged.

“I don’t do that anymore.” Jennifer blushed.

Quinn reached over and pulled a pack of cigarettes out of the breast pocket of the worn down jacket and wiggled it.

“Oh.” Jennifer said amazed. “I thought you meant something else.”

“Sorry but we’re all non smokers except for Jane’s brother so we can really smell it.” Quinn laughed nicely.

“That’s cool. Um… I’m… not gay or anything.” Jennifer blushed.

Quinn looked puzzled for a second before laughing. “Neither am I. Honestly I’m just really needy right now. I could use a friend.” She admitted.

“Me to. All mine went away to college… All two of them.” Jennifer agreed.

“So I was thinking you and me could give it a go.” Quinn sighed. “As friends.” She added quickly.

“I’d like that. Now tell me about History.” Jennifer smiled.

“What part?” Quinn chuckled.

“The important parts.” Jennifer just looked confused again.

“So all of it.” Quinn nodded. “Let’s see History 101.” Quinn said as she grabbed a book off the table and started talking as she opened it to a page and handed it to the other girl.





“So Trent, come here often?” Jane asked as they enjoyed another singers set.

“Lately a lot. I needed someplace where I could do something different than The Spiral.” He shrugged as he lit a cigarette and inhaled.

“Are you leaving the band?” Daria asked surprised.

“No, gigs are paying to well but I want… no I need to do more for me as far as my music is concerned.” Trent replied.

“I’ve been doing landscapes.” Jane said informed him.

“Whoa.” Trent said with wide eyes.

“Ask her about joining the corporate ladder and wearing a suit.” Daria teased.

“I need to look presentable and it gives me a chance to bond with my dad and lets me use my skills for money making ventures and … I’m finding out I have some skills I didn’t know about.” Jane ended looking pleased.

“That’s really cool. I got the job at the music store and the gigs with Spiral and now Thursday nights here. I’m doing pretty good for money. Mom stopped by and tried to convince me she didn’t do anything wrong. I just walked away.” Trent said sadly.

“So we hanging out here or heading back to your place?” Daria asked.

Jane’s jaw almost hit the table.

“My place sounds good.” Trent nodded.

“We need to take separate cars because Jane needs to trash me some more and then I am going to be wreak afterwards.” Daria sighed.

Trent just looked confused then he nodded.

“So whenever you two are ready.” Jane said amused.




Jennifer’s head was flat on the table with her long blonde hair spread out around her.
“Oh god I’m so going to fail this year too.”

“No you’re not. I just said you needed to clean it up a little. DeMartino is a stickler for details. I’ve marked the areas that need some work.” Quinn said seriously and slid the paper across the table.

Jennifer raise her head and looked at the sections circled in red.
“Ok but what’s wrong with them?” She asked.

“Do you really think that the invasion of France during world war two was the same as the crusades.” Quinn pushed.

“No.” Jennifer reread the paragraph and then sighed and started rewriting it.




“Ok so maybe I’m attacking Quinn without cause so what do I do about it?” Daria asked as they followed Trent’s car.

“Stop doing it. Look I watched you feel left out of her life for almost 4 years and now she’s begging you to come in. She just wants what you want. For the two of you to be sisters.” Jane answered.

“I’m scared.” Daria admitted.

“Fair enough but just try. She really does look up to you.” Jane said.

“Ok but she if she’s so serious about school what’s with all the clothes?” Daria pried.

“She likes to look good. It doesn’t rule her anymore.” Jane shrugged.

“I do want it but I just don’t know how. I just want her to love me for who I am.” Daria admitted.

“She does. Just give her a chance.” Jane pushed.

“And if she screws up, then what?” Daria demanded.

“Give her another and another just like she’ll have to do for you. Hey I’m new to this whole loving and nurturing environment but it seems that forgiving is the corner stone.” Jane laughed.

“I’ll try.” Daria agreed.




“Ok looks good.” Quinn smiled widely.

“Thank god. My brain has melted.” Jennifer complained.

“I’m planning on heading over to Trent’s apartment to hang out with my sisters. You want to come?” Quinn asked.

“That’s Jane’s old brother right. Sure.” Jennifer said smiling.

“Now one thing. A guy called Ethan may show up there …” Quinn started.

“Hands off. No problem.” Jennifer laughed.

Part 9

Daria sat down on the couch and fought the urge to shudder so she stopped looking at it.

“Nice place.” Daria lied.

“Thanks. It’s a dump but it lets me save up some money.” Trent laughed.

“I’m going to need a tetanus shot aren’t I.” Jane joked.

“You didn’t cut yourself did you?” Trent asked sounding worried.

“No but I stared to long at the door and I think the rust jumped onto my eyes.” Jane said pointing to the metal door.

“Good one.” Trent coughed.

“So you’ve discovered you like power ballads instead of hard core.” Daria mused.

“I like things that let me say something to the crowd. Those 80s monster ballads really have messages.” Trent shrugged.

“And you like landscapes and marking art.” Daria sighed.

“Yep, times they are a changing.” Jane joked.

“I’m a complete bitch aren’t I.” Daria said sadly. “I’m sitting here judging you two for growing as people instead of staying the same.”
“Gee you mean you might be human after all.” Jane chuckled.

“That’s the problem.” Daria admitted.

“That you might be human.” Jane said slightly confused.

“No, the kind of person I am. I’ve spent all this time thinking I was the stepped on one but now it seems I’ve been doing some of the stepping.” Daria’s voice waivered. “Most of it.”

“Your whole life has changed. New sister, two new sisters really.” Trent offered.

“Ya I just wish.” Daria said shaking her head.

“Go on say it.” Jane pushed.

“I wish that … I could be the one getting to take part in all this. Instead I’m hours away being hated.” Daria finished.

“Nobody hates you.” Quinn said from behind them.

“Hey when did you get here?” Jane asked and hugged the younger girl.

“Just now, Max let us in.” Quinn shrugged.

“Hey Jennifer, long time no see.” Trent said.

“Hey Trent.” Jennifer waved her hand in front of herself.

“You know each other.” Quinn said surprised.

“Well listening to Mystic Spiral is a lot easier when you’re stoned and I was all last year.” Jennifer shrugged.

“I remember you. Didn’t you get suspended for forcing open the locks on the vending machines?” Daria said looking worried.

“That was entrapment. First they give you a free period and access to the roof and then make the vending machine stop taking dollar bills.” Jennifer laughed.

“She doesn’t do that anymore.” Quinn said quickly.

“Scouts honor.” Jennifer said holding up her hand in a Vulcan salute.

“That’s not helping.” Quinn whispered and Jennifer dropped her hand.

“So you two are planning on spending the year knuckling down and studying to make up for the last 3 or so.” Daria mused.

“Daria.” Jane started.

“I have course outlines in Jane’s room. They should help you study.” Daria finished looking smug at Jane.

“Thanks.” Quinn smiled.

“So who’s up for some music of the non Spiral type?” Trent asked.
Daria and Jane both raised their hands.

While the evening couldn’t be called a party it was certainly close. Jennifer left shortly after Trent tossed his bandmates out with a wave and promise to drop in over the weekend to Quinn. Jane decided Trent looked tired and dragged him to his room leaving her sisters alone in the living room.

Jane crawled of Trent’s bed and almost stepped on him where he slept peacefully on the floor as she left the room. She was surprised and relived by what she found in the living room.

Daria and Quinn were crashed out asleep on the couch or at least Quinn was. Daria was stretched out with Quinn asleep with her head resting on her sister’s chest. Daria was looking shocked.

“You ok?” Jane asked.

“We talked after you went to bed. Really talked. I feel like the worst person in the world.” Daria said quietly.

“You aren’t.” Jane said honestly.

“I had no idea how much she’s be going through. Did she tell you about the headaches?” Daria asked.

“No but I have seen her taking a lot of Tylenol.” Jane answered.

“I think it’s her eyes. Jane I’m sorry. I’ve been so busy trying to keep you as a friend I forgot we aren’t anymore.” Daria spoke softly.

“No I guess we aren’t.” Jane agreed.

“You have to help me be a better sister to her and you.” Daria pleaded.

“Just try to deal with what’s bothering you and you will be.” Jane said smiling.

“I was so happy when I found out you were my sister. Then it turned out you were Jake’s daughter and Quinn’s sister and even Helen’s daughter and I felt left out. I am jealous. I almost dropped out of school.” Daria admitted.

“Looks like you two are getting along better.” Jane said carefully.

“Ya. We hashed a few things out. God I needed to hear some of it so bad.” Daria replied and rubbed Quinn’s head gently.

“So did she.” Jane smiled.

“Don’t drop out of school. You told me once that I knew who I was and that was something you wanted. Now I don’t and as much fun as we could have, I want to be that Jane for you and I can’t be anymore. You’re my sister and I love you but I have no idea who I am right now.” Jane said honestly.

“I know. I caught myself tonight trying to shove you into that corner tonight and you don’t fit there anymore. Neither does Quinn. I need to build some new shelves. “ Daria laughed quietly.

“Go to sleep. Ethan will be here tomorrow and I need beauty sleep.” Quinn mumbled as she shifted around and pushed her head against Daria tighter.

“Yes Quinn.” Daria smiled.

“I’m going back to bed but I warn you, anymore surprises and I’m locking myself in my room for the next 6 months.” Jane laughed and head back to Trent’s room.

:Things are settling in a bit. All is good.: Jane thought as she stepped over Trent and climbed onto the bed.


Daria sighed as she watched Quinn fidget waiting for Trent to return from the bus station where he would be picking up Ethan.

“Relax.” Daria tried to calm her.

“I’m trying but it’s been four months since I’ve seen any guy that I liked and it’s making me crazy.” Quinn joked.

“What happened to Joey, Jeffy and Jamie?” Daria asked.

“Jeffy and Jamie found themselves and are dating and Joey moved.” Quinn shrugged.

“Dating … as in each other.” Daria said shocked.

“Explains why they kept trying to go after a girl that wouldn’t give them the time of day.” Jane mused.

“It was a bit of an ego check to find out that they didn’t really want me.” Quinn admitted.

“I can see that. Can I ask what started the big change?” Daria said curious about the change in her sister that occurred in such a short period.

“Remember the girl I met over the summer. Lindy.” Quinn said sadly.

“The waitress with a drinking problem.” Daria answered.

“She was drinking and crashed her car. She died.” Quinn stated. “It made me take a look at my life and I didn’t like what I saw.”

“I’m sorry.” Daria said looking ashamed.

“Don’t be upset. It was going to have to happen at some point but I wish it hadn’t taken that to wake me up.” Quinn said.

Trent and Ethan arrived later and Quinn perked up at once.

:A little testosterone is all that girl needs to feel better.: Jane thought fondly as Quinn flirted with Ethan who seemed to be more receptive then he had on the previous occasion.

“Where did Daria go?” Jane asked looking around the living room.

Quinn looked around. “She was just here a minute ago.”

“Where’d Trent go?” Ethan said joining them in looking.

“NO!” Jane smiled. She suddenly knew where they both were.

“You can’t be thinking what I know you’re thinking.” Quinn giggled.

“Let’s find out.” Jane stated and started down the hall with Quinn on her heels and Ethan following behind.

Jane paused at Trent’s bedroom and swung open the door and quickly shut it again.

“Oh my god.” Quinn said breathlessly.

“One sec.” Jane smirked and cracked open the door.

“Sorry about that.” She called into the room sounding amused.
Jane closed the door and waved Quinn and Ethan back down toward the living room.


Trent tried to move but Daria kept him pinned down. His hand gripping his pants that hung over the side of the bed.

“Where do you think you’re going?” She said amused.

“But …” Trent started looking at the door.

“If I have to listen to Jane and Quinn rag on me over this then damn it I’m not stopping.” Daria said forcefully.

“Good one Daria.” Trent laughed.

“You better be.” Daria said seriously.


“So anyone for pizza?” Jane laughed as they made it to the living room.


Daria and Jane sat in the waiting room and tried to distract themselves from worrying after Quinn.

“It’s not going to cause problems you stayed past the weekend is it?” Jane asked.

“No. I’m so far ahead of the classes that I could test out if I wanted to.” Daria sighed.

“Then why not do it?” Jane asked surprised.

“Because why I’m sure I know everything that will be on the test I might not know something the teacher thinks isn’t important.” Daria shrugged.

“Sorry I didn’t tell you about pushing back leaving for school.” Jane replied sheepishly.

“Not a problem. As much as everything has changed for me, it’s nothing compared to what has changed for you.” Daria sighed.

“Christmas break, me and Quinn are planning a road trip to Texas. To visit my mom’s grave. I wouldn’t hate it if you wanted to come.” Jane informed her.
Quinn walked into the waiting room looking depressed.

“So what’s the verdict?” Jane demanded but with a smile.

“I don’t need glasses.” Quinn still looked depressed.

“So why is that a problem?” Daria asked confused by her sister’s reaction.

“I kinda thought it would be cool. Instead I got a lecture about reading too much and some pamphlets on proper lighting.” Quinn replied.

“So the headaches are eyestrain from reading in poor light.” Daria nodded with a grin.

“Yes Daria.” Quinn sighed.

“I have a lamp that might come in handy for you.” Daria offered.

“Really.” Quinn said surprised and Jane smiled.

“Ya. It throws off a better circle of light. I know you move around a lot when reading.” Daria answered.

“Thank you.” Quinn blushed.

“Ok let’s get out of here unless Daria wants to stop in for an appointment to get some birth control.” Jane tossed out.

Part 10

“Amiga!” Jane smiled as she stood in the doorway shivering.

“I decided to come down a day early to beat the snow storm.” Daria said as she stomped through the soft covering of snow that rested on the ground.

“Get in here.” Jane said and moved out and grabbed one of the bags that Daria was carrying.

“I can’t believe the weather. Was it ever this cold before?” Daria sighed as she closed the front door and let the warm air bringing feeling back to her fingers.

“Coldest winter on record for the last 30 years.” Jane smiled.

“Jane sweetie who was it.” Helen called from the kitchen.

“Some starving college student that wanted a handout. I sent em packing.” Jane joked.

“DARIA!” Helen cried out and popped out of the kitchen.
Daria was engulfed into a bear hug and she sighed. “You couldn’t have told her I was a salesman or something.”

“Ha, you bailed on me last weekend so no help for you.” Jane teased.

“I wanted to study for midterms.” Daria defended.

“And the fact the Mystic Spiral just happen to be in Boston for a gig didn’t come into play.” Jane laughed.

“Ok maybe it did but just as stress relief.” Daria shrugged.

“Hey kiddo.” Jake said coming down the stairs.

“Hey dad.” Daria smiled.

“You going to help me talk Jane here into taking a partnership at Morgendorffer consulting and go to school in Lawndale.” Jake said happily.

“We’ll talk later.” Jane whispered.
Daria wasn’t shocked by this news as her father’s business had gone from a one man firm to a twenty person operation in just six months and her father give Jane the credit.

“Hey Daria.” Quinn said coming down the stairs looking miserable.

“Hey.” Daria said looking confused.

Quinn turned to her parents and asked. “I know I’m grounded but can I please just call him? It’s three days to Christmas.” Quinn pleaded.

“We’ll talk later.” Jane whispered again.

“Fine but I expect you to stand in the same room as me when you do and a call on Christmas will be ok.” Helen said sternly.

“Thanks.” Quinn said honestly.

“Upstairs now.” Daria demanded as her parents started to moved away.

Quinn and Jane follow Daria up the stairs and into Jane’s room.

Daria didn’t waste any time. “What’s going on?”

“Who first?” Jane chuckled.

“Quinn.” Daria decided.

“Me and Ethan went farther than I’ve gone before and Mom walked in on us. I didn’t think we needed to lock the door because we’d never gone far enough to require clothing to come off before.” Quinn sighed.

“So Mom caught you making out.” Daria said doubtfully.

“Does the expression oral mean anything?” Jane sighed.

“Mom caught you doing that for Ethan. Ouch.” Daria said surprised.

“Not exactly.” Quinn blushed.

“Ethan was being generous and let Quinn go first.” Jane laughed as Daria’s face got shocked then amused.

“I was going to return the favor but we got caught.” Quinn sighed.

“So what’s the damage?” Daria asked.

“We can’t see each other till next year and I have to go on birth control and Ethan has to let them know whenever he is in town to see me.” Quinn sighed.

“It’s not too bad so stay strong and before you know it you two will be able to see each other.” Daria comforted Quinn.

“At least they’re going to let me call him now and speaking of that I should go do that before she changes her mind.” Quinn sighed.
Quinn got up and hugged Daria before heading downstairs.

Daria waited for the door to close. “So they’re getting pretty serious.”

“Yep. It really was just hormones getting the better of them and things happened.” Jane shrugged.

“You are keeping an eye on them right?” Daria said worried.

“Yes and they’re at that stage where maybe it’s time.” Jane answered.

“And what about you. Are you thinking about not going to BFAC?” Daria shifted gears.

“Ya I am. I love art Daria and I’m still making it. Truth be told what I’m producing now is better than anything I’ve ever made before. I sent some off to BFAC and a few other art reviews and they gushed. I mean really gushed over it. But I like the business world too, except for the math.” Jane admitted.

“So our dad picked up on that and wants to bring you into the family business.” Daria chuckled.

“Quinn’s part timing with us after school and we have 20 full time employees. People heard we signed Landon and the offers just started pouring in.” Jane said shaking her head.

“The cell idea was a gem. Landon has already recouped his investment with renting space on the tower and we haven’t started up yet. He wants us to manage the business and that’s going to be big. Mom is thinking about leaving the firm and starting as our legal adviser fulltime.” Jane continued.

“Oh. So I might be on my own for a while.” Daria said and took a breath.

“Well I want to go to college still but maybe something that has a better business program as well as art.” Jane sighed.

“That’s ok. I understand, but I hate it. You know.” Daria replied sadly.

“Can I ask you a question now?” Jane pushed.

“Go for it.” Daria answered knowing what the question was going to be.

“Did Trent do something or not do something? What’s with the friends with benefits thing?” Jane asked tenderly.

“Trent didn’t do anything but be Trent. You know I crushed on him for ages. When we hooked up I was ready to give it try to be a couple and everything but we don’t have anything in common. The only time we were on the same page was in bed.” Daria looked amused.

“So you stopped the relationship but not the bed part.” Jane was stunned.

“Pretty much. Trent’s the only person I want to do that with right now so why not. He seems like he understands and acts pretty ok with it.” Daria smiled.

“He is. Dog.” Jane muttered.

“It was my idea.” Daria chuckled.

“You are being safe right.” Jane slipped into big sister role.

“Yes. You’re only a little older than me so don’t use that tone.” Daria laughed.

“The road trip is on but it’s a flight now.” Jane sighed.

“Really.” Daria looked surprised again.

“Mom and Dad don’t want us gone to long so they bought tickets. Ethan is going to meet us there.” Jane dropped her voice low at the end.

“Nobody’s running off and getting married are they?” Daria asked nervously.

“No but I thought it would be nice for Quinn to see him after Christmas. Looks like new year will be the day we get back.” Jane shrugged.

“I got you something.” Daria sighed and pulled out a wrapped gift.

“Should I wait or does it need to breath?” Jane laughed.

“Wait.” Daria smiled.



“I just want to say that I’m really happy to have the entire family here for our first Christmas together.” Helen smiled.

“You locked all the doors so we couldn’t escape.” Daria joked as Jake handed out gifts.

“Hush.” Helen smiled.

“You are going to unlock the bathroom doors later right.” Quinn sighed.

“I guess there really wasn’t a point in wrapping that.” Jane joked as Jake hand Trent a gift that was shaped like a guitar.

“A new laptop. Nice.” Daria said as she unwrapped a gift.

“Daria! It’s not time yet.” Helen scolded.

“Busted, she jumps the gun every year.” Quinn said to Jane.

“A new drawing desk!” Jane exclaimed as she opened her largest gift.

“Nevermind, go nuts.” Helen sighed.
The four young people shredded the wrapping paper in seconds.

“Daria where every did you find a necklace this perfect.” Helen smiled.

“At a shop in Boston.” Daria smiled as her mother put on the string of pearls.

“Two gifts from Daria, huh which one explodes?” Quinn teased her sister.

“The artist guide to cut throat business tactics.” Jane laughed after opening Daria’s gift to her as she flipped through the book before looking through the packing paper and finding an old paintbrush.

“It belonged to Norman Rockwell.” Daria blushed.

“These clothes are incredible and … reading glasses.” Quinn smiled.

“Ya I thought you might like them.” Daria shrugged.

“Thank you.” Quinn beamed.

Daria picked up the gift from Quinn and opened it gently. She couldn’t believe her eyes. “It can’t be real.” Daria said as she lifted the book gently from the box.

“1812 first edition of volume one.” Quinn answered.

“How?” Daria said in disbelief.

“An estate sale Jane dragged me too. The woman saw my reaction and cut the price down in half.” Quinn admitted.

“The original Grimm fairy tales.” Daria sighed as she stroked the book.

“Ok before you and the book need to be alone. Open my gift.” Jane demanded.

“You’re not alone, together we stand. I’ll be by your side; you know I’ll take your hand.” Trent sang and strummed on the Washburn acoustic electric he had just unwrapped.

Daria looked down at the painting and gasped. It was a scene from within her very heart put to canvas. The three sisters standing on a field of grass talking and smiling in the sunlight, they were all touching and looking at each other happy and serene. Together.

“I hope you like it.” Jane said weakly before seeing the tear drop onto the wrapping paper.
Daria nodded her head and accepted the tissue her mother passed to her gently.

“Well I’m very happy to receive this.” Jake said holding up a blinking gizmo.
Everyone laughed and smiled and enjoyed the closeness.




Daria crept into the guest room and crawled into bed next to Trent who was awake, he always knew when she was going to visit him.

“Hey.” Trent smiled.

“Hi.” Daria wanted to laugh. :He still makes me feel like it’s the first time.: She thought.

“You ok with this?” Trent asked sweetly.

“If you are.” Daria said as she moved next to him to feel his skin against hers.

“Always. It is a shame we couldn’t get together.” Trent said rolling on his side and pulling her tight against him.

“Ya but this is nice. We’re just too different.” Daria sighed as she traced a tattoo on his shoulder.

“Yep.” Trent smiled widely.

“Now quit boring me and do what you do best.” Daria jokingly ordered.

“Yes Ma’am.” Trent smiled then he laid back on the pillow and pretended to snore.

“Oh you slacker.” Daria chuckled as she pushed him off the pillow.




Jane knelt in front of the small grave marker that rested over her mother and placed out the flowers she brought.
:Sorry I never knew you Mom.: She thought sadly. :Sorry I couldn’t be what you wanted but I hear another song. I paint and do art and I think I’ll be starting school in the fall. Double major, art and business management. My Dad is ok, I wish you had given me a chance to know him but I’m not mad…anymore.: Jane thought down at the grave.
:I have two sisters. Daria and Quinn, I think you’d like them. It’s pretty far to drive here so I won’t be coming out to often but you will be in my heart.: Jane thought fondly before standing up and walking back to her sister’s and brother. Ethan held Quinn tightly as they returned to the rental car. Trent moved into the driver’s seat and they headed away.




Jane sat in her office and went over the project reports she was doing and smiled. Another success for Morgendorffer and Morgendorffer.
:Keep this up and I wouldn’t be able to get away long enough to go to school.: She thought amused.

“Hey kiddo.” Her dad said as he knocked on the doorless entry.

“Hi, what’s up?” Jane asked with a smile, she always had one for him.

“Just wanted to see if you wanted to go to lunch with your old man.” Jake asked.

“Sure.” Jane said and she closed the folder and stood up and stretched.

“How about pizza, my treat.” Jake laughed.

“No pizza. You know what the heart doctor said.” Jane scolded lightly.

“Have you been talking to Daria again?” Jake teased.

“Yes and Mom. I just found you and I’m not ready to lose you yet.” Jane said sternly.

“Daria still coming home for the summer?” Jake asked as they walked to the elevators that would take them to the ground floor.

“Yes. She’s not really going to run away to a third world nation to feed the homeless.” Jane pushed on his shoulder.

“Good or …you know.” Jake sighed.

Quinn was waiting in the lobby and with a smile took Jake’s arm.
“So did he try to hit you up for pizza?” Quinn asked.

“Yep.” Jane said and Jake blushed.

“Daddy, you aren’t allowed to die for at least twenty more years.” Quinn sighed and patted his arm.

“Um should I make an appointment with the funeral home for a certain date?” Jake chuckled.

“Ok, who’s up for Thai?” Jane asked as they headed into the parking garage.
“Sounds good.” Quinn said with a smile.
:This is what I didn’t believe existed for my entire life.: Jane thought. :This is family.: