Well all good things must come to an end as they say. So here is the final installment of this story! I hope you enjoy it! Thank you for following me in this journey. You guys are the best.

There will be more to come with "If You Ever Want To Fall In Love". I do have an idea for another story...it would be post Season 7 and of course strictly L/L. Still trying to figure it out, but I think that at some point it will get written when I find some more time.

Anyway - enjoy the last chapter of this. Thanks again for everything! Best fandom out there :) 3

Luke was frustrated. He was tired, frustrated and sad. He had barely seen Lorelai since Rory's graduation. She had come into the Diner yesterday to tell them that they would have to cancel the scheduled party for Rory. Even though it was for a good reason (Rory getting a job), he was also bummed that he and the rest of the town wouldn't get their big goodbye. And quite honestly...he was also worried he'd never get a moment with Lorelai to sort through this big mess.

As he browsed Doose's for random items to stock his fridge, he didn't even notice the frantic blue-eyed brunette currently careening towards him. It wasn't until her familiar fragrance overtook his senses and she slammed into him that he realized who it was.

"Whoa." He stuttered as his basket fell to his feet.

Lorelai gasped, "Oh crap. I'm sorry-" He saw her bend down, "Let me get that for you." She glanced at the items, "Protein powder, tomatoes, water and yogurt." She muttered, "Luke?" She looked up and her face flushed when she realized he was the one she had bumped into, "Hey. Hi. I'm so sorry."

He smiled softly, "At least I hadn't picked up any eggs yet."

She laughed nervously and looked down, "No but your tomatoes are a bit bruised…"

He shrugged, "So I'll put them back on the pile and get new ones. No problem."

She bit her lip and anxiously, "Okay…"

Sensing her nervousness, it jolted his own anxiety into effect, "Um...you were in quite a hurry."

Lorelai sighed, "Trying to get on the go snacks for Rory. She's got a list a mile long of all the things she needs before she leaves and I'm afraid we won't get it all done."

"Somehow you always do." He said with a shrug and a gentle smile.

She chanced a quick glance at him then looked away, "I'm really sorry about having to cancel that order. I'm happy to pay you for everything still."

Luke shook his head, "Don't even worry about it Lorelai. You've got enough on your plate."

"Did the natives cry for a revolt after we left?" She asked with a cringe, "I saw Patty this morning and she'd barely look at me."

He sighed and shook his head, "They're just sad they won't get their big dramatic goodbye. But they'll forgive Rory. And you."

She smiled, "I don't think I'll have time for my big dramatic goodbye either. Rory is so worked up she hasn't sat still since she got the offer."

"Like Mother like daughter." He said with a smirk, "That's how you were with the Inn." He chuckled and shrugged, "That's how you are with most thinks but definitely when the Inn was being built."

She smiled shyly and looked down, "Was I that bad?"

"Don't you remember the day you only managed to line one of your eyes." He teased.

She huffed, "Hey...be nice. I was doing my best. I may have looked like a hot mess but I was trying to hold it together."

He smiled at her, "You did not look like a hot mess. You were beautiful as you always are."

His voice was raspy and low and it sent a shiver down her spine, "Luke…"

He shook his head; "You've got enough on your plate at the moment. You don't need to add our drama to the mix."

She frowned and glanced down, suddenly unable to meet his eyes, "But I promised we'd talk after her Graduation."

"Yeah well a lot of things have happened since then. It's okay." He whispered reassuringly.

She peeked at him from under her lashes, "It's not that I don't want to talk about it…" She grimaced, "Well no I take that back...it won't be a fun conversation so I don't' really want to have it. But I know we have too. And I…" She swallowed the lump in her throat, "I still want to try and-and figure it all out."

He nodded, "I know. And so do I. But...I'm not going anywhere. You take all the time you need."

The look on his eyes reminded her of the Luke she knew before it all went wrong. The Luke who would build her a chuppa to marry another man, the Luke who would build her an Ice Rink to help her make up with her old friend Jack Frost. The Luke who would give her 30,000 dollars to make her dream come true. And in that moment she realized he had been there all along...only life got in the way and they both got a little lost.

"We will talk." She whispered, "We have too."

Luke nodded, "I agree. But Rory comes first."

She sighed and looked into her cart of junk food, "Think I should pack Rory some protein powder?"

He smirked, "She'll never eat it." Turning to his left he smiled and grabbed two bags of red vines, "But she'll sure as hell eat these."

Lorelai smiled at him, "I'll see you soon?"

Luke nodded, "You bet." He saw her begin to walk away, "Hey Lorelai?" When she turned back to him hopefully he shrugged, "You let me know if you need anything. If you need help packing or moving her or whatever…"

Lorelai smiled, "Well lucky for us I don't think we can haul a mattress across country so don't worry about that."

He laughed, "That's good to know. But seriously...if you need ANYTHING you call me."

The blush grew in her cheeks and she nodded, "I will."

"Good." He said offering her a slight wave, "Uh...try and bring Rory by the Diner before she leaves?"

Lorelai smiled, "Oh don't worry. You've been added to the list. You even have a star next to your name which means it's a mandatory assignment."

Now it was his turn to blush, "Oh…"

She smiled back, "Yeah. Oh." She nodded towards his basket, "Now go get your eggs and head back to the man cave. I think I saw Kirk heading towards the Diner so you'll want to avoid him."

He chuckled, "Thanks for the warning."

She gave him a little wink and then turned to walk up to the register. Luke watched her go with a hopeful feeling this time, thinking that they were finally back on track. And then he got an idea…

DRAGONFLY INN - KITCHEN
[Sookie is cooking, Luke enters]

LUKE: Hey.

SOOKIE: Hey, Luke, how's it going?

LUKE: Good. It's going good. How are you?

SOOKIE: Ooh Good. Hey, I apologize for the smell in here, but I'm making bouillabaisse. It's kind of at the stinkiest part - a lot of uncooked fish and garlic.

LUKE: It smells good to me.

SOOKIE: Well you're very kind. You looking for Lorelai? 'Cause she's out and about, and I don't know when she's coming back.

LUKE: Yeah, I know. I saw her in town.

SOOKIE: Oh.

LUKE: Yeah.

SOOKIE: Yeah. So, what's up?

LUKE: Well, you know she cancelled Rory's graduation party?

SOOKIE: Yeah. I mean I knew that kid wouldn't last a whole summer at home before landing some kind of amazing job, but, god, it happened so lightning fast.

LUKE: You know I was thinking maybe we should throw it anyway.

SOOKIE: Oh, yeah?

LUKE: Yeah, I mean it's a week sooner than we planned, but there's no reason we can't do it.

SOOKIE: I guess not.

LUKE: And I think we should make it a surprise party.

SOOKIE: Who doesn't love a surprise?

LUKE: Yeah I got all the hot dogs and the hamburgers, and the buns are on their way today anyway.

SOOKIE: You know, that's a very sweet idea Luke.

LUKE: Yeah, I think Rory would really love it.

SOOKIE: I think Lorelai would love it.

LUKE: Yeah, Rory and Lorelai.

SOOKIE: Yeah, Rory and Lorelai.

[Giggles and chuckles]

SOOKIE: I think we should do it!

LUKE: Yeah.

SOOKIE: Yeah, yeah.

LUKE: All right. I'll start telling everybody.

SOOKIE: Okay what do you need from me?

LUKE: Desserts.

SOOKIE: Aha! Well, I'm all over it.

LUKE: Okay.

SOOKIE: Give Jackson a call.

LUKE: Okay.

SOOKIE: He'll help you with whatever you need.

LUKE: Al right Okay, thanks, Sookie.

SOOKIE: Okay.

LUKE: All right, bye.

As Rory started packing the last minute things in her bag she sighed, "I can't believe I'm leaving tomorrow."

Lorelai pouted and sat down on the edge of the bed, "You can't believe it? I can't believe it? I swear it was just yesterday you wrote your name for the first time. Now here you go trying to take the world by storm."

Rory smiled, "Only because you encouraged me to do just that all these years."

Lorelai rolled her eyes, "Yeah well you never should have listened to me. You should stay here and be with Mommy always."

Rory laughed and zipped up one of the pockets on her bag, "Sorry about that. But I think it's a little late now…"

"Well what good are you to me? I mean now that you're leaving who will make sure I never run out of strawberry pop tarts? You know how I get when I run out of strawberry poptarts." She said with a frown.

Rory nodded, "It ain't pretty. That's for sure."

"And who will pester me to put the screens in the windows when I'm too lazy so that the bugs don't come in once spring comes again?" Lorelai asked.

"You'd think you'd find it easier to do the screens after the tenth time getting stung by a bee." Rory laughed.

"And what about movie marathons? It's not as much fun over the phone. I end up eating all the candy and then I get sick. When you're here, you eat half of it which is a safe enough amount." Lorelai whined.

"Well I'm sure that Luke will fill all those voids just fine." Rory said with a twinkle in her eye as she sat beside her Mother.

Lorelai's face burned red, "Rory…"

"Mom...you know you guys are going to get back together." She said with a little shake of her head.

Lorelai looked down, "You don't know that."

"I do know that." Rory said quickly, "Because if you don't I'm flying back from Chicago and kicking both of your asses."

Lorelai smirked, "Well then I'm definitely not getting back together with him because then you have a reason to come home."

Rory rolled her eyes, "Such a smart ass. You know what? I take it back. If you and Luke do not get back together I'll never come home again."

Lorelai gasped, "How could you be so cruel to your Mommy? The woman who gave you life? The woman who introduced you to Bono, Oreos and coffee before an appropriate age? The woman who-"

"Mom." Rory said with a laugh, "Stop."

Lorelai sighed and looked down, "I know that you want us to get back together. And yeah...so do I but I'm just...I'm…"

"You're scared?" Rory asked, Lorelai didn't respond she just nodded her head slowly, "I know Mom. I get it. I really do. And I'm sure Luke is just as scared too. But after all this time, after all you've been through you both still love each other. Doesn't that tell you that you should be together?"

"Either that or were both masochists." Lorelai said with a huff.

Rory laughed, "Then you're a perfect pair."

"You don't think we'd be totally crazy to try again?" Lorelai asked curiously.

Rory shook her head, "I think you're both crazy in general. I mean look how long it took you to get together in the first place when it was crystal clear you both wanted it to happen. You've got to stop fighting the inevitable, forgive yourself for your mistakes, and start communicating. You two are so good together when you want to be."

Lorelai looked down, "I never really knew what real love was before him…"

"I know." Rory whispered as she reached out for her Mom's hand, "Just like I know you two can do this."

Lorelai sighed again, "Damn your Ivy League education for making you so wise."

Rory smiled and shook her head, "No...it wasn't Yale that made me wise. It was everything I learned from you."

Lorelai's face softened and she smiled, "Rory…"

Rory pulled at her Mother's hand, "Come on. Let's go brave the rain so I can say goodbye to everyone."

Lorelai nodded, "Alright."

They got up off the bed and said goodbye to Paul Anka before dashing out the front door to the Jeep.

STARS HOLLOW – TOWN SQUARE

[Lorelai and Rory in the Jeep, it raining heavy]

RORY: Why is no one picking up their phones? I want to say goodbye to everyone.

LORELAI: We'll track them all down, I promise. [Gasps] Rory, look.

[Just about the whole town is under a giant tent cheering, there is a Bon Voyage sign to Rory.]

LORELAI: I think you're gonna get to say goodbye to everybody.

[Cheering continues as Zach and Jackson come out to the Jeep with umbrellas.]

RORY: Did you...

LORELAI: No, I didn't do a thing.

[Cheers and applause as the girls run back to the tent with the guys. They girls look on in amazement.]

LANE: We love you, Rory!

[Indistinct shouting as the camera pans the crowd.]

LORELAI: Whoo!

RORY: Whoo! Yeah!

GYPSY: We love you, Rory!

BABETTE: We're so proud of you.

[Shouting continues]

LORELAI: Wow.

RORY: Wow.

SOOKIE: Hey.

LORELAI: Hey!

SOOKIE: It's beautiful, isn't it?

LORELAI: It's so beautiful. I can't believe you pulled it off.

SOOKIE: No, I just did all the baking. This was all Luke.

LORELAI: What?

SOOKIE: He made me promise not to tell you, but I don't care. This is all Luke. He did all of it. He's the one that came to me and said, "let's do the party," and then he planned the secret town meeting, everything.

LORELAI: Really?

SOOKIE: Yeah. I mean last night when we thought it was gonna rain and we'd have to cancel the party, he went around and collected everybody's tarps and tents and raincoats. I don't know how he did it. He must have stayed up all night doing this. Can you believe that?

LORELAI: Yeah… I'll be back.

SOOKIE: Okay.

LORELAI: Hey, Kirk.

KIRK: [Yelling] I can't hear you! My eardrum popped!

TAYLOR: Lorelai, if you see Luke, tell him that he and he alone is responsible for all party cleanup.

LORELAI: Okay.

BABETTE: Lorelai, you want to make a Morey sandwich?

LORELAI: Maybe later, Babette.

[Music, Jackson 5 "Let me show you what it's all about reading and writing, arithmetic". Luke exits the diner, Lorelai walks up to him. The Mighty Lemon Drops' "Inside Out" plays]

LORELAI: Hey.

LUKE: Hey.

[Both sigh]

LORELAI: Thank you.

LUKE: Oh, it's...no big deal.

LORELAI: Luke.

LUKE: I just... like to see you happy.

[Luke and Lorelai move in at the same time and they kiss.

Lorelai pulled away because for a moment she was sure she might pass out. She had stopped breathing the moment she laid eyes on him as he walked out of the Diner. "Luke…"

"God I missed you." He said only letting her go enough to get air, their faces were still just inches apart, "I missed you so damn much. I didn't realize how much until this second. I've been trying to avoid it...but Lorelai I-"

"I know." She whispered as her eyes shut tightly and her hands fisted the worn flannel shirt he wore, "Trust me I know. It's been torture."

"Hell." He whispered, "Worse than hell."

"Worse than the treacherous Gilmore Family Dinners." She teased, "And that's saying something."

He chuckled and pushed her hair aside, caressing her neck gently, "Sure is."

Her lips pressed against his again, "You did all of this…"

He sighed and nuzzled her nose gently, still unwilling to let her go, afraid that if he did this would all disappear again, "She deserved a proper goodbye. And so did you." He paused, "I hope it was okay...maybe you two had plans. I didn't even think to ask. I just-"

"You wanted to surprise us." She whispered pulling back just enough to look him in the eye, "You wanted to see us happy."

Luke swallowed hard and nodded, "I always have."

She let out a little breath and sighed, "Oh Luke…"

"I got so lost before." He whispered, "When April showed up it was like my whole life just exploded. I didn't handle it right. I pushed you away. I forgot about us. I didn't see it because I was to wrapped up in my own head but I pushed you away long before you gave me that ultimatum that night."

"It still under no circumstances makes what I did right." She said with a cracked voice, "You have no idea how much I hate myself for hurting you that way. I don't think I will ever forgive myself."

Luke shook his head, "I forgave you a long time ago Lorelai. You need to forgive yourself."

"I should have tried harder to talk to you but I didn't know how. And that night I just snapped Luke. I wasn't thinking straight...I don't even know how I made it to his apartment. It's all such a blur...and then after that my life just started flying by in snapshots. It's like I haven't been able to breath right, like I've been in a fog or in some trance since that night. Until this very moment…" She whispered softly.

Luke nodded, "I know what you mean. I held it together for April...but I've been a mess. A total mess. Nothing makes sense without you."

She sighed and reached for his hands, "Luke how can we make this work? After all the terrible things we both said and did?"

He shook his head and looked her straight in the eyes, "It's not going to be easy. And we can't fix it all overnight. But...we can do this."

"Do you really believe that?" She asked gently in a timid voice.

Luke nodded, "I do. Because I know that I can't go on like this anymore Lorelai. I mean if you told me that you just wanted to be friends...I'd do it because…" He swallowed hard, "Because I'd rather have you in my life at least as a friend than not at all. But-" He lifted one hand and tilted her face up a little, "You Lorelai Gilmore are the only woman for me. You have been since the day you came flying into my Diner like an addict begging for a hit."

She laughed, "Luke…"

"I kept that damn horoscope in my wallet for eight years until I had the courage to ask you out." He said with a shrug, "And I still kept it after everything we went through."

She smiled softly and bit her lip, "You did?"

Luke nodded, "I did. Couldn't bare to get rid of it. Then I had to admit that it was really over...and deep down I never really believed that it was."

She sighed and wrapped her arms around his waist, burying her head in the crook of his neck, "Oh thank God it's not."

Luke breathed her in and held her close, "It was never over and it will never be over. This is it Lorelai. Okay? You and me."

"You and me." She mumbled into his neck, "My Luke."

He smiled and pressed a kiss to the side of her face, "Lorelai?"

She pulled back to look at him, "Yeah?"

"I love you." He whispered softly, "I need you to know that. And to never question it...never again. I'll try and be better about saying it but if I forget because I might…" He blushed, "I love you. And only you."

Her eyes welled up with tears and she pressed her palms against his chest, "Luke, I have never in my life loved another man the way I love you. I didn't even really know what love was until you. You're the one."

He took a deep ragged breath and lifted her hands from his chest to his lips, "We can do this."

She nodded once, "We can do this."

He smiled and then leaned forward to kiss her lips, "We should get back to the party. Rory will be looking for you…"

She bit her lip, "Will you stay close? Now that I've got you back...I don't want to let go."

He smiled and nodded, "I'll be right beside you."

"Good." She whispered reaching for his hand, he picked up the bags he had dropped before their kiss with his free hand and followed her across the street. As they entered the fray of the party again, Rory caught her Mother's eye from across the tent. She gave her a questioning look and Lorelai just smiled back. Rory glanced at Luke and he just winked. Rory smiled and turned back to Lane, knowing she had nothing to worry about. Everything was going to be just fine…

LORELAI'S HOUSE – LIVING ROOM

LORELAI: Okay, you have these. Oh, honey, let me help you with that.

RORY: I got it.

LORELAI: Oh, no, I got it.

RORY: I know how to work a zipper, mom.

LORELAI: Okay. That's it, huh?

RORY: Yep.

LORELAI: Got everything?

RORY: I think so.

LORELAI: Oh, what about this?

RORY: That's for the plane.

LORELAI: Oh, how about these?

RORY: Um, those are old and broken. I have new ones.

LORELAI: I just feel like I need more time.

RORY: I know.

LORELAI: I really just feel ambushed, you know? I thought I had so much more...time. I thought I had all summer to impart my wisdom about work and life and your future, and I feel like I had something to tell you. Oh, on the bus, make sure you choose a good seat, you know because people are creatures of habit, and the seat you pick in the beginning could be your seat for the rest of the year. You know. Get a window seat, honey, 'cause there's so much to see. And you might want to sit in the back, because people there tend to be more chatty and friendly and - I don't know what it is about the front of the bus, you know but people there just tend to be a little more bossy and uptight. It's just been that way since first grade. And, honey, I know what you're gonna say, but just don't wear shorts, okay no matter how hot it is. It's not professional, and all that heat and those sticky vinyl seats - it'll be like ripping a band-aid off your thigh every time you stand up. Don't be too shy. Don't be too forward, but don't be too shy, 'cause you make a lovely first impression, but you really grow on people, too.

RORY: Mom.

LORELAI: You need ziplock bags. You should have them all the time, they're so handy.

RORY: Mom.

LORELAI: And I'm gonna give you that orange sweater. I know you've wanted it, and I'm you know what finally gonna give it to you.

RORY: Mom…You've given me everything I need.

LORELAI: [Sighs] Okay.

RORY: Okay.

LORELAI: Shall we?

RORY: What's the rush? It's, like, 5:00 A.M.

LORELAI: Got a stop to make.

[Lorelai grabs the bags and exits, followed by Rory who takes one quick last look.]

LUKE'S DINER
[Luke is pouring coffee for Lorelai and Rory.]

RORY: Mmm. The coffee smells good.

LORELAI: Hello, old friend.

LUKE: How is it?

RORY: Mmm.

LORELAI: Your first pot is always your best.

LUKE: Good.

RORY: Thanks for opening up the place.

LUKE: I got to take care of my best customers.

RORY: [giggles]

LUKE: So, you guys know what you want?

LORELAI: Oh, hmm, I have no idea.

RORY: Looks like a delightful menu.

LORELAI: Oh, it does look delightful, charming.

RORY: Very charming, adorable fonts.

LORELAI: I wish there were pictures.

LUKE: Hmm.

LORELAI: You know, I'm gonna need a minute. I can't decide.

LUKE: Take all the time you need.

[Rory smiles as Luke walks away from the table.]

LORELAI: But could we get some eggs and bacon and hash browns to tide us over?

LUKE: Coming up.

LORELAI: And pancakes?

RORY: Hey, I like your necklace.

LORELAI: Oh, you do?

[Lorelai looks over her shoulder towards the kitchen]

RORY: It suits you.

LORELAI: Thanks. Hey you got to be careful when you drink coffee on the bus, it's bumpy.

RORY: I can handle it.

LORELAI: I should have gotten you a sippy cup.

RORY: Maybe I should get a flask.

LORELAI: Do they make flasks for hot beverages?

RORY: Yeah they're called thermoses.

LORELAI: Right, I'll get you a thermos that says "World's Greatest Reporter" to match your cap.

RORY: Oh, yeah, I meant to tell you that I left that cap at home.

LORELAI: What?

RORY: Well It wasn't very flattering.

LORELAI: Well how will people know you're the world's greatest reporter?

RORY: I don't know.

LORELAI: I guess they'll just have to read your stuff.

RORY: I guess so.

After devouring everything that Luke brought out to them, Rory reluctantly glanced at her watch. "I guess we should hit the road soon."

Lorelai nodded, "I guess so."

Rory looked up and saw Luke prepping for the rest of the day, "Um...can I-?"

Lorelai followed her daughter's gaze and smiled, "Sure. I'll go double check everything in the car. Take your time."

She squeezed her daughter's hand and got up from the table to head out the front door. Luke looked up when he heard the bells jingle, almost fearful that they would leave without saying goodbye. But he relaxed a little when he saw Rory getting up from the table and walking towards him.

"Finally stuffed?" He asked with a little smirk.

"Yes. I think you have finally done it. You've managed to fill the Gilmore's." She said with a smile.

He chuckled and pulled a white bag out from under the counter, "Well somehow I think you'll find room for these cherry Danishes on the way to the airport."

She laughed and peeked into the bag, "You know us so well…"

He swallowed hard, "I like to think I do."

The tears began to burn in the back of her eyes, "Luke I-"

"You don't have to say anything." He whispered, "Sometimes it's easier that way."

She smiled and glanced up at him, "Sometimes. But sometimes people need to hear the words. I think we've all learned that lesson recently…" He blushed and looked down, "I need you to promise me that you won't break her heart this time. I need to know I can trust you to take care of her."

He looked back up at her and nodded, "Rory, I will never let her or you down again. I barely survived last time. I won't make the same mistakes twice."

Rory nodded, "I've already given her this speech and she said pretty much the same thing. She promised me she'd take good care of you too."

Luke smiled, "Rory-"

"You know…" She sighed softly, "I was happy that my Dad was at my Graduation the other day. I was. It was great to share it with him…" She shrugged, "But it didn't compare to how good it felt to see you sitting there beside Mom. Right where you belonged."

Now the tears began to burn in the back of his eyes, "Well I was just glad you even wanted me there."

"I told you Luke. I always wanted you there. I needed you there." She whispered, "You're my Luke."

He smiled, "Your Luke?"

She nodded, "I believe if you look it up in the dictionary it says that a Luke Danes is a person who you can always count on to fix broken porch rails, hide dirty mattresses, beat up ex-boyfriends, bury dead caterpillars and be an all around hero. With a side note that he also makes the best coffee's and seems to have an endless supply of cherry Danishes that appear exactly when they are needed."

He laughed again, "I must need a new copy of the Webster dictionary."

"Yeah...I think they added that entry last year." She said with a warm smile.

"Good to know." He whispered, "I assume it also defines a Rory Gilmore as the smartest, kindest and all around incredible young woman who is going to take the world by storm?"

She smiled and looked down, "Don't think they've added that one quite yet."

"I'll call and complain." He said with a little smile.

"Thanks." She said with a sigh as she looked back up at him, "Not just for that…" She started to chew on her bottom lip to keep from crying, "But for every incredible thing you have ever done for me."

Luke leaned across the counter and took her hand in his, "You were my kid first."

Her eyes burned now with tears and she knew that she wouldn't be able to hold them in much longer, "And you were the Dad I always wanted."

Luke smiled and rounded the counter and pulled her into his arms, "I love you kid."

She squeezed him tight, "I love you to Luke."

He sighed and pressed a kiss to the side of her face, "Alright, you've gotta get out of here before I totally lose my tough man image. I'm about to be a puddle of tears."

Rory laughed and pulled away, "You're secrets safe with me."

"I appreciate that." He smirked, "I'll walk you out."

Rory smiled, "Wanna make sure she'll come back later?"

He blushed, "I just-"

"Don't worry. I threatened her with never coming home again if she didn't fix things with you." She said with a smile, "But she would have come to you anyway."

Luke smiled softly, "We'll figure it out."

Rory nodded, "I know."

Turning, she walked out of the Diner. Luke grabbed a second bag from the counter and then followed Rory to meet them by the Jeep.

Rory sighed, "Ready to go?"

"I think everything is all set in the Jeep." She said, "You ready?"

Rory frowned and looked around the familiar small town, "Ready as I'll ever be I suppose…"

Lorelai smiled, "You'll be back before you know it."

"But how much will have changed?" Rory said looking at the Gazebo and all the stores and places she called home.

"With Taylor in charge? Absolutely nothing." Luke said with a sigh as he glanced around, "It would ruin the history and charm of it all."

"Says the man who has worn the same shirts for over a decade and won't change the color of the Diner ever." Lorelai said with a smirk.

He rolled his eyes, "Yeah well…"

"I'm not even gone yet and you two are already fighting." Rory said with a pretend smirk, "What will I do with you?"

Lorelai smiled, "We're not fighting. This is how we've always communicated."

"If by communicating you mean flirting, than sure." Rory said with a laugh, "Watched this for years, just waiting for one of you to crack and make a move. There were Town Meetings and polls based on when we thought the first kiss would be and where. I always assumed it was the Diner, many people picked the Gazebo. I think Kirk picked Doose's, specifically in the bread and cracker aisle for some reason and Babette thought she'd find you two going at it on the front lawn."

"Aw Geez." Luke said throwing his hands up and resting them on the top of his head.

Lorelai frowned, "Well hate to break it to you kid, Mommy won't be living here when you get home. Enjoy Stars Hollow without me."

"Why, where you going?" Rory said with a laugh.

"Most likely jail after I kill ever jerk in this town." She said with a laugh.

"Yeah, well too bad they don't have co-ed jails because I'll be going right there with you." Luke chimed in with a laugh.

"Don't feel too bad. Sookie won the jackpot in the end. She said it would be at the Dragonfly after you gave her the loan. Pretty sure you two single handedly decorated Martha Bellville's nursery." She said with a smirk.

Lorelai shook her head, "I need new friends."

Rory smiled and turned back to Luke, "See you when I get back?"

Luke nodded, "I'll be here."

Rory wrapped her arms around his neck and hugged him tight, "I'm counting on it."

Luke squeezed her back, "Go get 'em kid."

Rory pulled back, gave him one last smile and then turned to climb into the passenger seat of the car. Lorelai stood by the driver side door and paused to look at him. Luke smiled and cocked his head, signaling for her to come closer.

She smiled and stepped up to him, "You gestured?"

He smiled and presented her with the second bag, "A pick me up for the drive home."

She looked down, "What is it?"

"Triple chocolate brownie." He said with a smile, "Fresh out of the oven before you came in tonight."

She laughed, "Luke, when did you have time to do that? I heard you didn't go to sleep the night before either. You must be exhausted."

He blushed and shrugged, "You're more important than sleep."

"Luke…" She whispered softly, "I-"

"Caesar is going to open and I'm going to get some sleep." He said with a shrug, "I have one more thing for you."

"What could you possibly-" She gasped when she saw the keys dangling in front of her, "Luke?"

"Your old keys to the apartment." He said with a shrug, "I thought you might not want to go back to the house after you drop her off. Might be too hard…"

She let out a shaky breath, "You know me so well."

Luke nodded, "I like to think I do." He shrugged, "You don't have to come by...but I'll be there. Not expecting anything. Just…" He reached out and touched her face, "I just want to be there when you need me."

Lorelai took a deep breath and wrapped her arms around his neck, "How did I survive the last year without you?"

Luke smiled and held her closer, "Probably better than I did."

She shook her head, "Doubtful." She sighed and pulled away, "You'll be here?"

Luke nodded and squeezed her hand tight, "Right here."

She took another deep breath and nodded, "Okay. I should go." She pointed towards the car, "Otherwise I'll never leave."

"You're going to be fine." He whispered to her, "We all are."

Lorelai nodded, "I know."

She smiled and gave him a little wave before climbing into the Jeep beside her daughter. Luke gave them both a wave goodbye and watched until the Jeep was out of sight. Smiling to himself, he realized he finally did believe that they really would all be okay.

At the airport as Rory was getting ready to leave; she turned to her Mother and tried to smile.

"I guess this is really it." Rory whispered, "But I don't think I'm ready."

Lorelai felt the tears burning in her eyes, "Oh...you're ready alright. You've always been ready. But being ready don't mean it isn't hard to leave…"

"Suddenly I wish we were back in the Potting Shed. Just you and me. Watching the rain fall on the sunroof and dreaming about the day when we'd have a real home." She whispered, "Wasn't that just yesterday?"

There was no way to hide the tears now, "I'm pretty sure it was only an hour ago."

Rory leaned forward and hugged her Mother, "I love you so much Mom."

Lorelai sighed, "You have no idea kid." She pressed her face into her hair, "You are the greatest thing I have ever done. No matter where you go...I'll always be right here. You need me? I'm there on the next flight out, no questions asked."

"I'm going to hold you too that." Rory whispered back as the tears flowed freely.

Lorelai sighed and pulled away, "This is it kid. You've gotta go now or I'll never let you go."

Rory smiled, "Promise me you'll go to Luke."

Lorelai nodded, "I will."

"I told him I was trusting him with your heart. And I'm trusting you with his. I don't want him hurt either." She whispered.

Lorelai nodded, "I know you don't. We'll make it work. We have too...I don't want to be without him anymore."

Rory smiled, "Good." She looked behind her and said, "I have to go…"

Lorelai sniffled and nodded, "I know. Call me when you land?"

Rory nodded, "Of course."

"I am so insanely proud of you." She said reaching out to touch her face, "Go show them what you're made of."

"Bye Mom." Rory whispered as she pulled away, "I'll see you soon."

"Not soon enough." Lorelai whispered, "Bye hon."

Rory grabbed her bag and walked up to give her ticket to the man waiting. She gave her one last wave and then walked through the security check. Lorelai waited until she could no longer see her before even thinking of leaving. She made it to the Jeep before breaking down. Resting her head on the wheel, the tears poured down her cheeks. She reached to the side for the tissues she had left there, but her hand hit a bag instead. When she saw the Luke's bag and the brownie, she knew the only thing that would make her feel better.

Lorelai parked down the street from the Diner, wanting to avoid attention from her nosy neighbors. Walking in the back of the Diner with her old set of keys, she crept up the back staircase and up to the familiar door. She couldn't remember the last time she had come here, and yet she felt so at peace as she turned the doorknob.

The apartment was quiet as she walked in and the shades were drawn which meant Luke was still asleep. She shut the door as softly as she could as she stepped into the room. She smiled when she saw what was clearly April's corner all set up for her. She was happy that he had been able to spend time with the young girl during their time apart. She looked to the right and saw Luke's form breathing deeply as he slept. She smiled and felt a rush of emotion run from her toes, up her spine and up to the top of her head.

She walked over to the table to put her bag down and suddenly her heart jumped in her throat. There she saw the rest of the brownies he had made just for her, her favorite coffee mug he had clearly not gotten rid of, and hanging over the chair, her favorite blue flannel of his which she had returned to him reluctantly months ago. Lifting the shirt to her nose as the tears sprung in her eyes, the smell of him washed over her.

So many emotions suddenly sprung up from the back of her throat. She couldn't' silence the sob that escaped her mouth and she wasn't surprised when his arms suddenly enveloped her from behind, "Shh…"

"It hurts." She whispered as she clung to his arms, feeling that if she let go she'd break in two.

Luke pressed his lips to the side of her face, "I know."

"How can you be so sweet to me after everything that's happened?" She whispered.

He squeezed her tighter, "Because I love you. And because I know I played a part in this too."

She sighed and turned in his arms, "Luke-"

He shook his head and smoothed his fingers through her long hair, "Not now. You're exhausted and sad about Rory. Go change…" He whispered, "Then come to bed."

She frowned, "But Luke-"

He smiled and leaned forward to kiss her lips, "I think we both just need to be together. Maybe not that way...just together. We'll figure the rest out later."

Her eyes fluttered open as he pulled away from the kiss, "Okay."

Luke nodded and cocked his head towards the bathroom. She smiled and took his shirt, which was more hers than his at this point and walked to the bathroom. She heard him shuffling around in the kitchen and smiled when she returned, realizing he had been brewing her some coffee. Her cup was sitting beside the bed on her favorite side and he was already laying down on his side. He pushed back the covers and put his arm out for her. She smiled sheepishly and folded her hands in front of her.

"I'm scared." She whispered honestly, "What if it's all changed?"

He sighed and sat up, "Something's have changed yes...but how we feel about each other hasn't. Right?"

She bit her lip and nodded, "Right."

He nodded once, kissed her lips and lay back down, "Then come here."

Taking a deep breath, she crawled into bed beside him as she had done so many times before. As she wished she could have through this last year. Resting her head against his chest, she heard the steady beat of his heart and she smiled. His arm wrapped around her shoulder and he pressed a kiss to the top of her head as his fingers began to thread through her hair.

"See?" He whispered, "Some things are still the same. We still fit perfectly."

She squeezed him and smiled, snuggling into his chest, "Yes we do."

"Rory get on the plane okay?" He asked, his voice sounded so quiet in the dark room.

"She texted me before they left the gate. Promised to call when she landed." She said as he pulled the blanket up around her.

"She's going to do great things. I know it." He whispered into her hair, "She's had everything she ever needed from you."

"But what if she needs me and I can't get there fast enough?" She asked.

"Then I'll take out a small loan and we'll hire a jet to get you there." He said with a smirk.

She laughed, "You would really do that."

"Of course I would. I'd do anything for her. And you." He said giving her a nudge so she'd roll over onto her back, he smiled down at her, "I hope you know that."

She smiled and reached her hand up to touch his face, "I think you've proved that by being civil with Christopher at the graduation and staying up all night to concoct a giant tent for Rory."

Luke smiled, "It was all for both of you. You're a packaged deal."

"We are." She whispered wrapping her arms around his neck, "But I realize now that you've always been part of that package too."

Luke sighed and leaned down to nuzzle her, "I always wanted to be."

She smiled and played with the curls at the base of his neck, "You and me Luke."

He smiled and pulled away, "You and me."

"We can do this." She whispered softly, "We can really do this."

Luke nodded, "Yes, we can. Plus we have too...otherwise Rory will kill us both."

She laughed, "Right. This is all for Rory. It has nothing to do with us and how we feel."

He smirked and pressed his lips to her neck, "Not at all."

Pulling him closer as all the emotions threatened to spill over again, "Luke I need you."

"You have no idea how much I need you Lorelai." He whispered as his kisses became more frantic, "No going back."

"Never." She whispered with a sigh as his lips trailed across her collarbone, "Never ever. This is it."

Luke slid his hands up under her shirt and finally felt like his world was falling back into place. They'd sort the rest of it out later; right now they just had to be Luke and Lorelai. They were finally back where they belonged…

Well there you have it - I hope you liked how it concluded.

Until next time!