The Surprise
By Frosty
[Fry
couldn’t believe how stupid he was as he sat on the couch in
his house in New Bern, North Carolina, he ran a hand through his
hair, that now had some grey streaks in it. Almost 30 years had gone
by since he and Leela got married. He still worked at “The
Tackle Box”, bought a new house, and raised three kids; two
boys and a girl. After being married for a month, Leela became
pregnant, and the two of them found this house, knowing that they
were going to have more than one child. It was two floors, four
bedrooms, three bathrooms, and a large kitchen. The house was white
with blue shutters, and out in the back yard was a garden Fry had
planted with rose bushes for Leela when she came home from the
hospital with their son Eddie. He was 29 years old, graduated from
UNC Pembroke on a basketball scholarship with a degree in teaching.
He was married and had two kids named Alex and Julie with his wife
Rachel. Alex was 5 and Julie was 3, and they loved their
grandparents. When Eddie was 4, Leela was pregnant again with a
daughter this time, and they named her Allie. Even though Fry and
Leela were ecstatic about having another child, later that year Munda
passed away from a heart attack in her sleep. Leela was devastated,
but Fry took time off of work to comfort her and also did all the
chores around the house for about a week. Allie, who was now 25 was a
student at UNC at Chapel Hill and was studying how to be a vet. Just
like her mother, she loved animals. Allie was un-married, but had a
boyfriend of 2 years named Ben, who had become good friends with Fry.
Then Fry and Leela’s third child, Ryan, had just turned 21 and
was also at UNC, studying law. As for Morris, he was diagnosed with
cancer a few years ago, and Leela had him moved into a nursing home.
They visited him every weekend, and occasionally had him over for
dinner. He had been getting gradually worse, and wasn’t
expected to be around much longer. But as Fry sat there that night,
he looked up at a picture of he and Leela on their wedding day. It
was taken behind their house and he couldn’t believe how happy
he was that day. The past year had been so hard for both of them. You
see, last year, Fry forgot their anniversary. He was swamped with
work since that week Garret was sick. After Carl retired, Fry and
Garret took over the shop and each worked every other week. But after
two weeks of working, their anniversary slipped his mind. When he
came home, Leela had made his favorite dinner, and later he was
sitting on the couch and heard her go upstairs, obviously upset about
something. Awhile later, he went up stairs and when he laid down on
the bed, she was crying softly. What’s
wrong? He
asked. Happy
anniversary was
her answer. Needless to say, Leela was furious at him for a month,
but now she just didn’t talk to him much. It was like she
didn’t love him anymore. He felt terrible, if only he could
make it up to her. Their 30th
anniversary was next week, and Fry planned on doing something huge
for her. Something that would show just how sorry he was. Hearing the
phone ring, he picked it up and heard Allie’s voice on the
other end.]
Allie: Hi Dad, is it okay if Ben and I
come over right now? Just for a few minutes.
Fry: Sure, I’ll go tell your
mother.
[Hanging up the phone, he walked into
the kitchen were Leela was washing dishes.]
Fry: Hey, that was Allie, she and Ben
are coming over for a few minutes.
Leela: Fine.
[Fry waited to see if she was going to
add anything else, but she didn’t. Walking back into the living
room, he sat back down on the couch. A few minutes later, the
doorbell rang and Leela opened the door. Standing outside was a tall
young woman with red hair and two eyes. The man standing next to her
was a little taller than her, had brown hair and wore glasses.]
Allie: Hi Mom.
Leela: Hi sweetie, hi Ben.
Ben: Hi Leela.
[Fry stood up and hugged his daughter.]
Fry: Hi there.
[The four of them sat down, Fry in the
chair, Leela, Ben, and Allie on the couch.]
Leela; So what’s going on?
[Allie took Ben’s hand and took a
deep breath.]
Allie: Well, we’ve got some big
news. We’re getting married!
Leela: Oh my God! That’s
wonderful!
[She gave both of them a tight hug, and
Fry did the same.]
Leela: Congratulations you two. So
when’s the big day?
Allie: Well, we were thinking, because
of how Grandpa is, we thought we should have it as soon as possible.
Leela: So what, in a month?
Allie: Well, not exactly. We were
thinking next Saturday. I know it’s your anniversary, and we
wanted to ask you first if it’s okay.
[Leela looked at Fry who’s eyes
were wide.]
Leela: Do you think we could get it
done?
Fry: I think so. I’ll take time
off work, and we can do it.
Allie: So it’s okay?
Leela: Of course.
Allie: Oh thanks Mom and Dad!
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[Later that night, Fry and Leela were
laying in bed in their pajamas. Fry was reading a book while Leela
went through a magazine.]
Leela: Can you believe our little
girl’s getting married?
Fry: I know,
[Fry rubbed his eyes and Leela turned
off the bedside lamp.]
Leela: Good night.
Fry: Good night.
[Fry stayed up most of the night just
watching Leela sleep. They had been married almost 30 years; he
couldn’t believe it. He remembered so clearly the day she came
back to New Bern after they broke up. That night Fry held her in his
arms all night, never wanting to let her go. He wished he could
relive that moment again, just to hold her in his arms. Instead of
sleeping on opposite sides of the bed.]
[The next morning, Fry, Leela, Allie,
and Ben were sitting at the kitchen table going over plans for the
wedding.]
Allie: Well, obviously, we want to get
married at the same church you guys got married, Mom, I want you to
come and pick out dresses with me. Dad, you and Ben have to find a
place for the reception. I called Ryan and Eddie, and they’re
getting catering and music-
Leela: Are you sure we’ll be able
to handle all of this by next Saturday?
Fry: I’m sure we can honey.
Remember our wedding? I mean, we got married as soon as you came back
here.
Ben: Plus, we’ve got our friends
and my parents to help.
Leela: Okay, what else is there?
[After an hour of going over more
details, Fry and Ben got in the car and drove off. During their
conversation, Allie noticed some tension between her parents.]
Allie: Hey Mom, is everything okay
between you and Dad?
Leela: Well, I’m still upset with
him for what he did last year.
Allie: I know, but he is really sorry.
Leela: I know he is. But it just really
hurt me. I mean, if you knew our story, you would realize how
important our anniversary is.
Allie: Well, tell me.
Leela: Tell you what?
Allie: Tell me how you and Dad got
together.
[Leela poured two glasses of water and
sat down.]
Leela: It all started on December 31st
2999...
[At the same time, Fry and Ben were at
the church so they could talk the Minister. They walked in and Fry
took off his Tar Heels hat, that matched his UNC shirt.]
Fry: Hi Reverend Sullivan.
Sullivan: Phillip Fry, how are you?
Fry: Oh I’m great.
Sullivan: And Ben. Benjamin Miller. How
are you?
Ben: Good,
Fry: Well, as you probably know, we’re
having a wedding.
Sullivan: Yes, I talked to Ben earlier
today. Come into my office and we’ll discuss it.
[Back at the house, Leela had just
gotten to the part where Fry ran away from Planet Express.]
Leela: He was gone for 5 years before I
finally found him.
Allie: Then what happened?
[She explained the week she spent with
him, and how they saw each other every weekend. Then how he proposed,
and then how they broke up.]
Leela: But I realized, that your father
was the best thing that had ever happened to me, and I would be a
fool to give that up.
Allie: Wow, you really love him.
Leela: I love him more than anything. I
just wish he could be a little more responsible at times. Don’t
get me wrong, he’s changed a lot, but sometimes- I don’t
know.
Allie: He’s just a big kid
inside.
Leela; Yeah, he is. But that’s
what make him, him. It’s just that…
Allie: What?
Leela: Ever since Ryan moved out, he’s
been so irresponsible. I just cant take it anymore.
Allie; What are you saying?
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[Some time later, Fry had gone to River
Side nursing home to visit Morris. As he did everyday, Morris was
sitting out by the river watching the water move slowly and saw a
swan swim by. Morris had been talking to the swan these last few
years, just to have some company. He had been lonely since Munda
died, and felt like the swan was her. Fry had a bag of bread in his
hand to feed the swan, and he sat down on the bench with Morris.]
Fry: Hi Dad.
Morris: Phil, how are you?
Fry: Good, how about you?
Morris: Could be better. Could be
worse, right?
[Fry chuckled and handed him the bag.]
Morris: Thanks for coming.
Fry: No problem.
Morris: You want to talk about the
wedding don’t you?
Fry: Well, yeah, but there’s
something else I want to talk to you about.
Morris: What is it?
[He paused and thought carefully about
how he would ask Morris this question.]
Fry: Did you ever get the feeling that,
[He stopped and stared out at the
water. The swan came by, and Fry threw a small piece of bread to it.]
Fry: That the person you love more than
anything, doesn’t feel the same way anymore?
Morris: What do you mean?
Fry: Well, you know I forgot our
anniversary last year. And even though I apologized and Leela said
she forgave me, I cant shake the feeling that she’s falling out
of love with me.
Morris: Has she said anything about
this?
Fry: No, but that’s why I think
it.
Morris: Listen, if you think that
Leela’s no longer in love with you, then court her again.
Fry: What do you mean?
Morris: Romance her. Tell her you love
her, just sit on the couch and hold her hand. Take her out for dinner
and dancing. Are you doing something for your anniversary?
Fry: Yeah. Since I screwed up last
year, I’ve got a big surprise planned this year. She’s
going to love it.
Morris: Good, and just trust me. If she
didn’t love you, she wouldn’t be here.
Fry: Good point. Thanks a lot Dad.
[After talking for a bit longer, Fry
stood up and walked Morris back to his room. Then saying goodbye, he
felt Morris place something in his hand. It was a watch that Fry had
seen Morris wear many times before.]
Morris: I want you to have it.
Fry: Oh, I couldn’t-
Morris: Phil, you’re like a son
to me. And I’ve seen the way you’ve taken care of my baby
girl.
Fry: Dad I-
Morris: No, you can take it. We both
know I’m not going to be around much longer, and I want you to
have this.
[Finally, Fry put it on his wrist and
smiled.]
Fry: Thank you.
[Giving him a hug, Morris patted his
shoulder before watching Fry leave. Outside the window, he watched as
Fry’s car pulled out of the parking lot.]
[Once Fry pulled up to his home, he saw
that Leela’s car was still gone. Perfect, this would give him
some time to get things together for their anniversary. Walking out
to his boat, he mentally made a list of everything he would need:
Champaign, candles, ice bucket, her gifts. He had been planning this
for a while, more specifically, since last year. But looking around
the yard, he realized that getting everything would have to wait.
Going back inside, he changed into some ratty old clothes, put his
old dirty Pembroke hat on and went outside to do some yard work.]
[Despite the blistering heat, Fry spent
the afternoon pulling weeds from the garden and around the house. He
had to wipe his brow every few minutes and his shirt was soaked
through. But today was suppose to be the coolest day this week.
Luckily Saturday was suppose to be very nice and cool so they could
survive outside. After about 45 minutes, and having a fear of getting
heat stroke, Fry went inside for a few minutes to cool off. Pouring
himself a glass of ice tea, he got a old washcloth out of the closet,
and soaked it in some cool water. Ringing it out, he dabbed his face,
arms and neck with it. Hearing a knock at the door he shouted at who
ever was outside.]
Fry: It’s open!
[In came two young men with two kids.]
Ryan: Hey Dad.
Fry: Hey guys.
[Ryan had red hair, two eyes, and wore
a short sleeved collard shirt. Eddie had purple hair, two eyes, and
was wearing a red shirt. His kids Alex and Julie ran over to Fry
screaming his name.]
Fry: Hey you two.
[He scooped them off the ground and
swung them around as they laughed.]
Eddie: Where’s Mom?
Fry: She’s still out with your
sister.
[They noticed his shirt and that his
face was all red.]
Eddie: Dad, have you’ve been
working outside?
Fry: Yeah, I was pulling weeds.
Ryan: You shouldn’t be out in
this weather.
Fry: I’m fine.
Ryan: No, you’re not. Let us take
care of it, you could get overheated. Just sit down and relax. Eddie
and I will go pull the rest of the weeds.
Fry: Alright, I’m gonna go take a
shower then.
[Turning on the TV for Alex and Julie,
Fry found a old shirt for both of his sons and then took a cold
shower. Cleaning up, he changed into shorts and his shirt before
going back down stairs. Getting Alex and Julie each a cup of juice,
he took his tea and sat down on the couch.]
[About half an hour went by, and Eddie
and Ryan came in sweating like crazy. They both had taken off the
shirts Fry gave them and Ryan had it tied around his head. Fry threw
them each a can of cold beer, and got one for himself.]
Fry: So have you guys picked out your
tuxes yet?
Ryan: Actually, we’re going
tomorrow.
[The door opened and Leela and Allie
walked in.]
Fry: Hey,
[Alex and Julie ran up to Leela and
gave her a hug.]
Leela: Hi everyone.
[Ryan and Eddie gave their mom a hug
and Eddie had a smile on his face.]
Eddie: Guess what we did.
Leela: Do I want to know?
Eddie: We got Chelsea’s to cater.
Leela: Really? How did you manage that?
Ryan: It seems that they just got a
cancellation.
Allie: That was lucky.
Eddie: Yeah, we couldn’t believe
it.
Fry: So did you girls pick out dresses?
Leela: Yeah, but I need you to pick
them up on Thursday.
Fry: No problem.
Eddie: Well I’ve got to go, I’ll
see you tomorrow. Come on kids.
[After saying good bye, Eddie and the
kids left, and a few minutes later, Ryan and Allie left.]
Fry: I pulled some of the weeds in the
back yard.
[She looked up and narrowed her eye.]
Leela: Fry, why on earth were you out
in that heat?
Fry: I-uh-I-
Leela: You’re 59 years old, you
cant be out in that type of weather for a long time.
Fry: I’m sorry. I just wanted to
clean it up a little before Saturday.
Leela: Well don’t do something
that stupid again.
Fry: I wont.
[She went upstairs leaving Fry standing
in the living room.]
[Later, Fry was sitting on his boat
once the sun had set. It had cooled off tremendously and Fry was
grateful for that. Still docked, he felt the rocking of the ship and
felt the rope being tugged as the ship tried to drift away. He
remembered sitting out here with Leela on their honey moon. He set up
a candle lit table and cooked her a romantic dinner. Why did the
relationship have go so far downhill all of the sudden? Everything
was great until he forgot their anniversary. He wished he could go
back in time and fix it. But he knew that was impossible. It was so
strange; he knew it was coming, he was planning on doing something
special, but then it just slipped out his mind. Turning his head he
saw a light coming from their bedroom, knowing that Leela was up in
bed going over some details for the wedding. The moon was shining
bright, and it reflected off the water. On nights like this, he and
Leela would usually sit out here all night, just looking at the
water, and not saying anything. Feeling the wind blow against his
face, he felt a chill and decided to go inside.]
[The next morning, Fry woke up at 5:30.
Leela was still asleep, and he decided to go out on his bike. Just to
think for a while. Quietly dressing with leaving a note, he went into
the garage and put on his helmet.]
[After half an hour of driving around
town, Fry stopped at a small bakery on the corner. Walking inside, he
was greeted by the older couple that ran the shop. The woman’s
name was Gabby and the man’s name was Frank. They had gotten to
know Fry, since he stopped in there almost everyday for a doughnut
and coffee on his way to work.]
Frank: Phil, good morning.
Fry: Hey Frank, Gabby.
Gabby: Get you the usual?
Fry: Yeah, please.
Frank: How are things going with Leela?
She still mad at you?
Fry: She doesn’t act like it, but
I can tell I really hurt her.
Frank: What are you gonna do?
Fry: I’ve got something really
big planned for our anniversary this year.
Frank: Well, let me know how that turns
out.
Fry: Oh you’ll know.
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[That evening, Fry and Leela were
sitting on the couch watching TV after getting back from dinner at
Chelsea’s. Fry had meet Ryan, Eddie, and Ben to get their
tuxes, then met up with Leela and Allie to pick out the menu for the
reception. As they sat there, Morris’s words were going through
his head. Nervously, Fry began to reach for Leela’s hand, but,
she began to stand up. She didn’t even notice him.]
Leela: I’m tired. I’m going
to bed.
Fry: Okay, I’ll be up in a few
minutes.
Leela: No need to rush.
[Fry winced as she went upstairs. Why?
Why was she doing this to him? He loved her, more than anything.
Deciding he need to clear his head, he went outside to sit on his
boat. After 20 minutes, he heard someone behind him. Hoping it was
Leela, he turned his head, but saw his three kids standing there.]
Allie: Dad, we have something to tell
you.
Fry: What is it?
Allie: When I was talking to Mom
yesterday, she said that-
[Fry watched as she wiped her eyes and
took a deep breath. This couldn’t be good, what did Leela say?
Fry prayed that Allie wasn’t going to say what he thought she
was.]
Allie: (soft) She was thinking about
leaving you.
[Fry felt his eyes start to roll back
in his head. Eddie and Ryan grabbed his arms and sat him down.]
Fry: What?
Ryan: We’re so sorry Dad.
[One thought was going through Fry’s
head: The time skips. Could that be it? Was it really destined
to be? No, it couldn’t be. Feeling the tears run down his
cheeks, he buried his face in his hands.]
Fry: This cant be happening! She cant
leave me!
Eddie: What are you gonna do?
[Wiping his eyes, he stood up.]
Fry: I’m going to show her just
how much I love her. I’m gonna show her that no matter what,
I’m always going to be there for her. I have to, she’s my
everything.
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[While Leela and Allie were out
shopping, Fry was at home setting up the tents. The next few days
went by fast, and the next thing they knew, it was the day before the
wedding. Ryan, Eddie, and Ben were also there, helping Fry. 5 tents
were up in the backyard, and now they were setting up tables.]
Ryan: Hey Dad, have you talked to Mom?
Fry: (sigh) No, but tonight I’ve
got something special planed for her.
Ryan: You think she’ll like it?
Fry: I hope so.
[Looking at his watch, he looked back
at Ryan.]
Fry: Do you think you guys can handle
this? I’ve got some more stuff to do.
Ryan: Yeah, go on.
[Fry jumped in his car and drove off
down the street.]
[Hours later, after the sun had set,
Fry was standing on his boat wearing his suit. Leela would be home
soon, and he had everything ready. On the front door there was a note
telling her to follow the rose peddles up to the bedroom were a
surprise would be waiting for her. Once she got up there, two boxes
would be on the bed. One that had a card telling her to open it now
and the other one telling her to wait. Inside would be a fuzzy
bathrobe, slippers, bubble bath, and lotion. The card saying: Go
and relax in a nice hot bath. Then once you’re done, open the
second box were a gift and more instructions are waiting for you.
But don’t take too long, a romantic evening awaits you.
Obviously she would be surprised, and go into the bathroom, finding a
bath already drawn. Smiling, she would undress, and get in the tub.
About twenty minutes would go by (he guessed) and she would get out,
let the water drain, and rub the lotion on her arms and legs. Putting
on her robe and slippers, she would lay down on the bed and open the
second box. Inside she would see a black dress, new shoes, and a
diamond necklace, along with another note. There’s one more
surprise darling, go back down stairs and come out to the dock.]
[Seeing the back door open, Fry smiled
as Leela made her way across the lawn and onto the dock.]
Fry: Hello.
Leela: Hey,
[She looked up at the boat, that had
lights all over it and looked at a candle lit table at the end.]
Leela; You did all this?
Fry: Yeah, since we’ll be busy
tomorrow, I thought we celebrate our anniversary tonight.
[Smiling, she let Fry take her hand,
leading her to the table. As she sat down, Fry took the boat out far
enough and anchored it.]
Fry: I’ll be right back.
[Going down into the cabin, that was
lit with dozens of candles, he checked the food that was keeping warm
in the oven and got his CD player along with one more gift for Leela.
Placing the CD player on the table, he saw Leela staring at the
moon.]
Fry: Hey,
[She turned and smiled.]
Fry: Here’s one more gift.
[He handed her the box and she opened
it, obviously happy. Inside was a photo album that had pictures of
them when they were dating, when they got married, when Leela was
pregnant, the kids, Munda and Morris, everyone at Planet Express and
the Tackle Box. Then on the last page was a letter Fry had written.
She read it carefully, absorbing every word.]
My dearest Leela,
This is a letter that is long over
due, it’s something I should of given you a long time ago. I’m
so, so, sorry that I forgot our anniversary, but more than that, I’m
sorry I hurt you. If I could go back in time and fix it, believe me I
would. But that’s impossible, so I’m going to do my best
to make it up to you. These past 30 years have been the best years of
my life, and I’m hoping for another 30, and then another. I
love you with all my heart, and you’re the best thing that’s
ever happened to me.
I remember how everyone always called
me crazy for chasing you, but I never gave up. The day we met, it was
love at first sight. I know at the time it didn’t seem like it,
since I freaked out, but when we were down in Old New York, and you
held my hand, I some how knew that you were the one for me. You were
always the one for me, and I was an idiot to go out with anyone else.
I also remember for the first 5 years I lived here in New Bern, and
how I slowly, and painfully, felt myself starting to get over you.
I’m so happy you came down to see me, because the truth is, I
never thought I’d see you again. Those first few years, and as
much as I tried, I couldn’t get over you. And I realize now
that , I never would of gotten over you.
Every morning when I wake up, I think
about how lucky I am to have a wife as wonderful as you. Everyday,
it’s like I’m falling in love with you all over again.
You’re strong, independent, beautiful, loving, a great mother,
and my best friend. You’re the air that I breath, you’re
the blood that pumps through my veins, you are the thing that keeps
me alive. With out you, I don’t know what I’d do. All I
know is that I would never be this happy. Our love is pure and true.
And true love doesn’t have a happy ending. Because true love
never ends.
All my love,
Fry.
[Putting the letter back in the book,
she looked up at Fry, tears brimming her eye. Fry gently wiped them
away as she sniffled.]
Leela: Thank you.
[Smiling, Fry stood up and Leela set
down the book.]
Fry: Hey, I brought a old friend.
Leela; Bender’s not here is he?
[Laughing, Fry pressed play on the CD
player and held out his hand. Soon, Leela heard the song “I’ll
be seeing you” playing and instantly knew what Fry was
planning. Taking his hand, the two of them started dancing on the
boat under the moon light.]
Fry: I’m so sorry that I forgot
out anniversary last year. I never, ever, wanted to hurt you.
Leela: I know, but I should of realized
that sooner. I’m sorry for the way I’ve been acting.
Fry: You don’t need to apologize.
[Looking around, she was reminded of
their first date, and their honeymoon.]
Leela: I love nights like this. They
always remind me of when we were young.
Fry: Hey, we’re still young.
We’re hip and cool.
Leela: (laughing) Don’t ever say
that again.
[He laughed and Leela smiled. Feeling
Fry trace circles on the back of her hand with his thumb, she
remembered everything about their first date. Universe 1 Leela was
right, that date was magical. Looking around, she never
thought that this is where she would end up, but it was everything
she’d ever wanted. Dancing in the moon light with her husband.
Looking up, she placed her one hand behind Fry’s head and got
closer to him. They kissed for a long time before Fry watched as
Leela blew out the candle, picked up the CD player and led him into
the cabin. Putting everything down, she took off his jacket and began
un buttoning his shirt. Fry kissed her neck and shoulder as he
unzipped her dress, hearing her make soft whimpering noises, and they
collapsed on the bed. For hours they made love and finally the two of
them were exhausted. Fry turned his head and smiled as they laid
under the covers.]
Fry: Can I ask you something?
Leela: Of course.
Fry: If you could do it all over- and
know how everything was going to turn out-would you marry me again?
[She was quiet for a long time, and
finally scooted closer to him, kissing him.]
Leela: Yes, I would.
[Fry smiled broadly and kissed her.]
Fry: I love you, more than you could
ever know.
Leela: I know, and I love you too.
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[The next morning, the sun rose over
the water as Fry and Leela were sleeping in the cabin. He began to
wake up and smiled when he saw Leela sleeping in his arms. Gently, he
shook her arm and whispered in her ear.]
Fry: Leela, honey wake up.
[Her eye fluttered open and she looked
up at him, smiling.]
Leela: Morning.
Fry: Morning.
[He looked at the clock on the wall,
saw that it was 8:00, and then looked back at Leela.]
Fry: We’re suppose to meet the
kids in an hour.
[He began to get up, but Leela grabbed
his arm, pulled him back down on the bed, kissing him.]
Leela: Not so fast!
Fry: But we have to meet the kids.
Leela: I don’t care.
Fry: We’re gonna be late.
Leela: No we’re not.
Fry: Yeah, yeah we are.
Leela: So?
Fry: You’re right.
[Some time went by, and finally the two
of them were outside their house with Eddie, Allie, and Ryan. They
also saw their old friends Bender and Amy.]
Leela: Sorry we’re late.
Fry: Yeah, we had a late night.
Bender: Fry!
[He ran up and pulled Fry into a hug,
choking him.]
Bender: (sobbing) I’ve missed you
so much!
Fry: (choking) I missed you too Bender,
but let go!
Allie: Come on you two, we’ve got
to get to the church.
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[Fry was standing at the bottom of the
stair case in the back of the church. Allie, her friend Savannah and
Leela were upstairs getting ready. Ryan, Eddie, and Ben were already
in the church seating everyone. Soon, Fry heard the door open and
close and saw Leela coming down the stairs wearing a bridesmaid
dress.]
Leela: I still cant believe that Allie
asked me to be her matron of honor.
Fry: You look great.
[He leaned in to kiss her, but she put
a finger up to his lips.]
Leela: You’re gonna mess up my
lipstick. But don’t worry, later my makeup will be messed up
later from crying anyway.
[Hearing the door, Savannah came down
and Allie followed. Leela stared at her, seeing that she didn’t
have her wedding dress on, but a bridesmaid dress that matched
Savannah’s and she had her hands behind her back.]
Leela: What’s going on? Why did
you take off your dress?
Allie: Mom, I’m not getting
married. At least not today.
Leela: What? Of course you are.
Allie: Think about it, this isn’t
my wedding, it’s always been your wedding.
[She turned her head and looked at Fry
who was just smiling.]
Fry: You said you’d marry me
again.
[Allie revealed she was holding the
veil that went with the dress that was upstairs.]
Leela; But-how?
Fry: I’ll explain everything
later. But go upstairs and get ready. I’m not suppose to see
you, remember?
[A few minutes later, Fry was standing
at the alter with Eddie and Ryan at his side. Looking around, he saw
all his friends, some old and some new. Everyone from Planet Express
and the Tackle Box. Then some people from the library where Leela
worked. Their neighbors, some of the kids friends, Eldon and Dee.
Hearing the music start, the door opened and Leela walked in with
Morris.]
[Fry was holding Leela’s hand as
Reverend Sullivan finished the service.]
Sullivan: By the power vested in me, I
now pronounce you man and wife again. You may kiss the bride.
[Fry lifted the veil from Leela’s
face and kissed her as everyone clapped and cheered.]
[Fry and Leela were sitting at the head
table with their children and Morris. All the guest had already left
and Leela was demanding that Fry told her how he managed this.]
Fry: Well, after I forgot our
anniversary, I knew I had to plan something special. It took me a lot
of time, but with the help of the kids, Ben, and everyone in town, we
managed to pull it off.
Leela: But if everyone in town knew
about it, how come I didn’t?
Ryan: Once we told everyone what was
going on, and they promised to keep it quiet.
Leela; But what if someone told me?
Fry: But they didn’t.
Leela: But what if they did?
Fry: I didn’t really think about
it, I guess I assumed you thought you heard them wrong.
Leela; So how long did it take you to
plan this?
Fry: A year.
Leela: What?
[He simply shrugged and Leela kissed
him.]
Leela: Thank you, this was the best
anniversary.
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[A while later, Fry was standing
outside by himself in the darkness, the only light was from the moon,
and the porch lamp. Leela was inside still talking to Allie and Ryan.
Eddie and Rachel had gone home since the kids had fallen asleep and
Fry and Leela had taken Morris back to the nursing home. Fry saw the
old basketball hoop set up and picked up the ball. Shooting it, it
bounced off the rim and into the bushes.]
Ryan: Good to see you’ve been
practicing.
[Fry turned around and smiled.]
Fry: Hey, take it easy on me, I’m
an old man you know.
[Ryan laughed and got the ball, passing
it back to his Dad.]
Ryan: Remember when I was in high
school, and we use to play out here every night?
Fry: Your mother would get so mad at us
for staying out late.
[Still laughing, Ryan watched as Fry
shot the ball, making the shot.]
Ryan: I still remember Thanksgiving
weekend when Eddie would come home from college and make me play him.
Fry: You lost every time.
Ryan: Don’t remind me. And do you
know what he made me say after I lost?
Fry: Do I wanna know?
Ryan: “I’m your bitch.”
[Fry tried not to laugh, but failed.]
Fry: I’m sorry.
Ryan: But I also remember playing you
and I’d let you win.
Fry: You let me win?
Ryan: Yeah,
Fry: Fine lets play right now.
Ryan: You’re on!
[As they were playing, Fry remembered
late nights playing basketball with Ryan. Since he was the youngest,
he always had people asking him about his older brother and sister.
Girls would talk to him or come over, just so they could see Eddie.
Even thought Eddie had been gone for 4 years when Ryan was a
freshman, he was still the talk of the school. He was the best
athlete; captain of the basketball team, baseball team, wrestling
team, and by his senior year had 12 varsity letters. And then there
was Ryan, who never got to start a game all 4 years. Then with Allie
getting straight A’s all through high-school and had a 4.0 GPA,
Ryan got some B’s and every once in a while a C. He was an
average student with a brother and sister who left high expectations
for him. Eddie: Athlete of the Year, Allie: Valedictorian, and Ryan.
That’s where Fry found himself bonding more with his young son.
It was the same thing with his brother Yancey. He was the smart,
popular, athletic student, and Fry was just the goofball that no one
liked. And that’s how Ryan felt. So Fry spent more and more
time with him, ultimately becoming his best friend. Then when Ryan
graduated, Fry felt alone. Yes, Leela was still there, but he missed
having Ryan around. So Fry would just do the things he and Ryan
normally would do, by himself. That’s when everything went down
hill.]
Ryan: That’s game!
Fry: I let you win.
Ryan: Yeah right.
[Fry smiled and threw the ball against
the house.]
Fry: Next thing you’ll know,
you’ll be out here with your son playing.
Ryan: I just hope I’ll be half
the father you were.
Fry: Come on, I wasn’t that
great.
Ryan: Dad, you were the best. I
couldn’t ask for anyone better. Remember when I said that when
I grew up I wanted to be just like you? I meant it, I want to be fun,
caring, loving, funny, romantic, willing to do anything for the
people I love.
[Fry felt some tears coming, and
quickly blinked a few times.]
Fry: I’m not crying, I’ve
got something in my eye.
Ryan: Dad,
[He gave his Dad a hug and Fry patted
his back.]
Fry: I love you son.
Ryan: I love you too, Dad.
[Fry pulled away, but kept his hand on
Ryan’s shoulder.]
Fry: Come on, before your Mom gets mad.
[Laughing, the two of them went inside
and found Allie still sitting on the couch with Leela.]
Leela: There they are.
[Fry sat down in his chair while Ryan
still stood.]
Ryan: It’s getting late, I think
I’m gonna get going.
Allie; Me too. Hey little bro, give me
a ride home?
Ryan: No way!
[Laughing he kissed his Mom, and opened
the front door.]
Ryan: Come on.
Allie: Bye Mom, bye Dad.
Leela; Bye sweetie.
Fry: See you guys.
[The door closed, leaving Fry and Leela
alone. She motioned for Fry to come and sit next to her, and he
obeyed. Leela kissed him and then pushed him on his back. But soon,
the moment was broken with the phone ringing. Leela smirked and Fry
laughed.]
Leela: I’ll get rid of who ever
it is.
[She picked up the phone and Fry
watched her expression change. Happy to confused, to shocked, and
finally, blank. Her eye had welled up with tears when she turned to
Fry. His hand instantly went to the watch he was wearing.]
Fry: (soft) Your dad.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[Fry was standing on the porch in the
cool autumn breeze. Leela was inside cooking dinner, and would
probably be calling him soon. Eddie, Ben, Alex, and Julie were in the
living room while Rachel was in the kitchen with Leela and Allie.
Ryan would be there soon and the nine of them would sit down for
Thanksgiving dinner. Afterwards, they would talk and finally Eddie,
Ryan, Ben, and Fry would play basketball before everyone left. But
for now, he would enjoy the silence and breath in the fresh air.
Earlier, Allie and Ben announced they were getting married, and Fry
assured Leela he wasn’t planning anything this time. Not a day
went by that she didn’t mention the surprise. Fry was so happy
everything was back to normal. He and Leela would go to work, meet up
for lunch, then once they were home, they would cook dinner together,
and depending on the weather, they would either sit on the boat, on
the porch, or inside on the couch. Finally at the end of the day, the
two of them would go up to the bedroom and fall asleep in each others
arms. The last few months had been hard though. That night when the
nursing home called, they said that Morris had a stroke, fell, and
was now in a coma. He passed away a few days later. Once again, Leela
was devastated, and Fry also took it very hard. Morris had been so
helpful when Fry thought Leela was going to leave him, and he
couldn’t imagine what he would do with out him. No, Leela
wasn’t going to leave him, but it was always nice to have
someone to talk with about things Fry couldn’t talk to Leela
about. Fry now never took off the watch Morris had given him. Looking
at his new ring, he read the engraving; it was their anniversary
date. When Leela asked him why he had it engraved on the outside, he
answered joking; So I wont forget. When she didn’t
answer, he got nervous, but then she laughed and playfully hit his
arm. You better not. Hearing the front door open, he saw Ryan
walk in with a young woman who was a little shorter than he was, with
blond hair. Her name was Sara, and she and Ryan had been dating for
two months. Fry looked at the two books that were sitting on the
railing and picked one up. They were books that Leela had wrote and
gave him for his birthday. Inside was their story.]
Leela: Fry?
[He turned around and smiled.]
Leela: Come on, dinner’s ready.
[Picking up the books, he kissed Leela
before going inside.]
Leela: What was that for?
[He shrugged as he set down the books
and took off his jacket.]
Fry: Because,
[She noticed the books and smiled.]
Leela: You really love those books.
Fry: Yeah, I do. They were the best
present anyone’s ever given me.
[Leela flipped through the pages and
smiled.]
Leela: I’ve got something to tell
you though.
Fry: What?
Leela: Well, Amy wanted to read these,
so I sent her a copy. Then, her friend read them, and her friend is a
publisher.
Fry: What are you saying?
Leela: They’re going to publish
the books.
[Fry smiled and pulled Leela into a
hug.]
Fry: That’s great news!
Leela: And it’s all thanks to
you.
[Fry kissed her again and Leela
squeezed him.]
Leela: Thank you, for everything.
Fry: Hey, it’s what I do.
The end
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