They Deserved This

Joy was in a daze of happiness the whole time they were at the restaurant celebrating with all of their friends. She truly hadn't thought she could have this again but life was actually pretty great, wasn't it? 

It had taken a long time to feel like she was living again rather than simply trying to survive another day but here she was. She and Derek were BOTH living instead of surviving. And that meant a lot to her after how much surviving they had done together. 

They deserved this. They really did. 

Her heart was full as everyone saw them off as they left the restaurant. She kissed Rachel goodbye and told her to be good and that she would see her in a week but she could call or text if she needed her before then after everyone else hugged her. 

"I'll be fine! You guys go have fun," Rachel insisted. "I love you."

"I love you too."