Together Again: A Muppet FanFiction

[redBoobergurl]

No this is not a story about the queen of fan fiction herself, Lisa. This is a story that I'm really excited about writing. I don't know where the inspiration came from but it did.

Some background: This story is set post TMTM in 2001. It's a story that came out of "what if Kermit never met Ronnie Crawford therefore not getting the show on Broadway or any of his friends back together?" There is no Pepe in this story or any of the other newer characters. If I say much more, I'll give away everything. So here you go, the first installment. They'll be more like installments versus chapters.

September 10, 2001

The traffic light turned green and pedestrians quickly began making their way across the street as quickly as possible. If you didn’t move fast enough you wouldn’t make it across and were then considered a fair target for the many taxi cabs, buses and cars clogging the streets each workday.

After 15 years in New York City, he still wasn’t used to the hustle and bustle. And it had only gotten worse since he’d arrived. He still wasn’t sure why he’d stayed all this time. He could’ve gone back to live on Sesame Street, but being in the city left him close enough to visit. He could’ve gone back out to Hollywood to start over, but after failing to get on Broadway somehow Hollywood seemed less appealing. Besides, his friends were still gone.

Kermit paused for a second after crossing the street to catch his breath. Not only had he scurried across the street at the traffic light, but he had already been almost running from his apartment to the restaurant he managed. The restaurant he couldn’t bear the thought of not working at because it was the last place he had been when they had all been together and still full of hopes and dreams.

He turned and looked at the clock on Times Square and hurried around the corner, putting thoughts of his old friends out of his head. He did not like to think of them.

“I really should find a closer place to live, these early morning marathons are taking their toll on my flippers,” thought Kermit to himself as he unlocked the door of Pete’s Delicatessen.

“Bout time you showed up. You get stuck in the crosstown again or something?” asked Rizzo the Rat as Kermit hurried behind the counter to get ready for the breakfast crowd.

“Of course I did, I always do no matter how early I leave. I swear this city starts coming to life earlier every morning,” said Kermit while putting on his apron.

“Dis city never sleeps. When are you gonna learn that?” asked the rat going over to the door and flipping the sign to say “open”.

“Oh one of these days I suppose,” sighed Kermit opening the cash register.

“I keep telling ya, you shoulda moved into the old guy’s place upstairs, you could roll out of bed and be down here before me!” exclaimed Rizzo.

“Jenny wanted to feel close to her dad, it was her right to take the place,” said Kermit.

“Jenny could afford any place on the Upper East Side, she could buy a penthouse for gosh sakes,” said Rizzo.

Kermit just shook his head at his rodent friend. Rizzo drove him nuts most of the time, but he and the other rats were loyal employees and had become his only good friends in the city.

Kermit couldn’t believe he’d been in the city for 15 years. He also couldn’t believe that it had been five years since Pete had passed away and Kermit had taken over the restaurant. He knew it sometimes bothered Rizzo that Pete hadn’t left it to him even though Rizzo had been there longer, but even Rizzo couldn’t deny that Kermit had better business sense and organizational skills.

Jenny was a successful assistant buyer for Macy’s after graduating from fashion design school many years ago. She enjoyed designing clothes, but just couldn’t break into the tough industry. She put her knowledge to good use and worked her way up in the corporate end of fashion. Even with her successful career she still put in a couple of weekend shifts as waitress in the restaurant that meant so much to her father and had helped put her through school in the first place.

Rizzo was right, Jenny could easily afford any nice place in the city, but she was devastated when her dad passed away of cancer and just could not leave his apartment. And even though she and Kermit were sort of on again, off again, neither had ever made the suggestion that they live together in Pete’s old space. Kermit liked Jenny a lot….but she was no Piggy. He remained in his small apartment in the Village where he could afford the rent a little easier.

The morning passed by as it usually did, the breakfast crowd arriving by 6:00 am and settling down by around 10:00 am when they had their brief lull before the lunch crowd started showing up.

Rizzo turned on the Rosie O’Donnell Show as he did everyday about this time.

“Oh look, she’s got that hottie Britney Spears on today. How I would love to…” said Rizzo.

“Rizzo, you’re married, that’s inappropriate,” said Kermit shaking his head.

“Hey, I can look, I just can’t touch,” shrugged Rizzo as he walked away.

Rizzo and Yolanda had married only a year ago after breaking up, getting together, breaking up and getting together about 20 times over the years Kermit had known them. He still had to let Rizzo sleep on his couch on occasion because of the fights the couple had, but his friend was making more of an effort now that he and Yolanda had a son.

“Mail call!” called the mailman entering the restaurant.

Kermit offered him a cup of coffee as usual and started sorting the mail.

“Bill, bill, bill,” he said.

“Who is Bill?” asked Rizzo?

“That’s an old joke,” said Kermit.

Rizzo continued watching the show. Now the talk show host was introducing a performance from a new Broadway show.

“Ya know something? I still think you could sell that show of yours if you went on her show,” said Rizzo. It was no secret that O’Donnell was a huge supporter of the performing arts.

“It’s not so simple to just walk on and demand to be on her show,” said Kermit. He opened a letter from Robin.

Kermit smiled as his nephew talked of his college days and how he was planning a fall break trip to the city. Kermit missed his nephew greatly, but knew leaving him back in the swamp with his parents was the right thing to do when the show had failed to get on Broadway. As for returning to the swamp himself, he only went to visit about once a year to make his mother happy. He couldn’t stand feeling like a failure everytime he went home.

“Any good mail?” asked Rizzo.

“Letter from my nephew, bunch of bills,” said Kermit.

“What’s dat?” asked Rizzo pointing to a postcard Kermit had set aside.

“It’s a card from one of the gang,” said Kermit. Rizzo didn’t ask any further questions. He knew Kermit didn’t like to talk about his friends. They all wrote a few times a year to check in and Kermit always waited until he was home alone in the apartment before reading them. He didn’t even share them with Jenny.

He enjoyed hearing how their lives were going and did his best to write letters back to them. Even with today’s technologies that made keeping in touch easier with email and cell phones his friends still always wrote plain old cards and letters. All of them that is, except Piggy. Things had ended differently with Piggy.

Kermit shook his head snapping himself out of his thoughts. Like the rest of his friends, he tried hard not to think of her, but it was even harder with her. Unlike his other friends, he didn’t even know where she was these days.

He sighed. They had all come to the city so young and full of hopes and dreams. Those dreams were dashed so quickly. It made him angry sometimes, he felt like they had given up so quickly. He wondered what it would take to get them all back together someday. It was his secret wish.

“Kerm? Code red man, the lunch rush is starting!” yelled Rizzo snapping Kermit back to reality. For now, this was the life he was stuck with and he was finding it harder and harder to dream.

[BeakerSqueedom]

:/ Oh, how sad.
Hopefully he reaches that little dream. <3
A cruel twist of fate, yes?
The happy part is...BETH IS FAN-FICTIONING (not even a word, eh?)!

YEY!

*POKE* :D

[The Count]

Make it a word... Make it the ziffle of the day at the new MC wiki! *Offers muffin.

[Muppetfan44]

OMG, I love this story idea! The first installment was perfect, great backstory along with making the audience die for more! I cannot wait to read the next chapter! It's so sad that Kermit is alone in the city, and the whole Jenny and Piggy dynamics: I can't wait to hear more! GREAT JOB!:)

[The Count]

*Glomp to Bethykins for this story. Post more... Soon? Please? Ish?
Gosh I've missed calling you that Izzy, I mean Beth. :flirt:

[Beauregard]

This story is intrigueing, I'll be interested to see where it goes, and why Piggy may have left after spying on him and getting a waitress job. I enjoy the slightly darker tone of the story.

I will always be confused though, I admit, by the title because I see it in the "New Posts" section and my heart leaps into my mouth and I wonder, "Goodness! Is Lisa alright?" This has happened four times in a row so far and I'm still not learning :p Any chance that Ed or someone could change the title to "Together Again - A fanfic by Beth" or something? Sorry for complaining...I just get so worried for Lisa everyime I see this thread :p

[theprawncracker]

Ooh Beth, what an interesting story you're developing here! Very interested as to why Piggy would've left Kermit. Maybe because they could never get married...? Who knows! You do! I want to! :p

But just reading over Beau's comments, I do agree that it may be confusing to some members that someone may be trying to contact Lisa or Lisa may be doing something crazy (or in her case, normal). I do think that maybe at least chaning the title to "Together Again - A Muppet Fan-Fiction" would be a little less confusing. :smirk: Just a thought!

More please!

[Beauregard]

Oh, Prawnie, there you are. Do you have any hot chocolate, I'm looking for some.

[redBoobergurl]

I'll chime in and agree that the name should be changed - Ed, can you do that for me? Thank you! More tomorrow!

[WhiteRabbit]

Wow. O_O This is wicked sad but very well written, Beth. I love it so far and I can't wait for more. =)

[Beauregard]

I forgot to mention in my first post, that I loooove how the first sentence firmly establishes them in the bussle of the city!

[The Count]

Taken care of, was waiting to hear from you yourself Beth. Now post some ore, please, Ish!

[RedPiggy]

*notices the date of the story*

I realize this fic may go a little darker, but will it get so dark as to deal with what happened in the real world the next day? I mean, I'm fine with that and everything ... it would be interesting to see how Muppets deal with something that BIG.

Anyway, totally dig the concept behind the fic... way to go!

[redBoobergurl]

September 10th, 2001 – Evening

Kermit opened the door of his apartment, threw his keys on the counter and then sank down into his couch and sighed. It was another long day at the restaurant. He held his postcard in one hand and turned on the television with another. He zoned out for awhile lost in some entertainment news program putting off reading the card that would make him ache for a different time.

Just as he was finally getting ready to read it the phone rang.

“Hello?" said Kermit.

“Hey, it’s me," said the voice on the other end.

Kermit smiled at the sound of Jenny’s voice. Whether they were friends or more than friends she was the one person who could always bring him out of a funk.

“How was your day?" he asked.

“Crazy, we have a big deal that we’re working on with a vendor. We’ll finalize tomorrow. If it goes through it will be huge," said Jenny.

“Well I hope it works out," said Kermit.

“Me too. I have to go to big meeting tomorrow over at the World Trade Center about it," said Jenny.

“Wow, it must really be a big deal!" said Kermit.

“Let’s just say I’ll sleep better when it is over. So how was your day?" asked Jenny.

“Busy as usual. Chester’s locking up tonight," said Kermit.

“I’ll have to stop down and say hello," said Jenny.

They continued to make idle chit chat for a little longer and then Kermit decided he couldn’t put off reading the card any longer.

“I got a card from one of the gang today," said Kermit.

“Oh! Did you read it yet? I can let you go if you haven’t," said Jenny. She understood that Kermit felt very private about his past.

“No, I haven’t. I really should do that," said Kermit.

“Who is it from?" asked Jenny.

“Fozzie," said Kermit.

“I figured that was the case," said Jenny. Fozzie wrote the most cards out of the whole gang.

Kermit appreciated that Jenny never asked more than who the letter was from. Jenny was one of the only people that really understood him. Regardless about what had happened in the past he was very glad to have Jenny in his life.

They said goodnight and hung up the phone. Kermit finally turned the card over and started to read.

Dear Kermit,

How is life in the big city? Beth and I are still doing well here in Maine. Mollie continues to grow faster everyday. And we’re excited; we’ll be having a new cub sometime this spring. If it’s a boy, I really want to name it after you. You’re still my very best friend. We’re going to try to come into the city for a visit before hibernation this year. I’d really like to see you. Have you heard from anyone else lately? How is Jenny?
Hope to hear from you soon.
Your friend,
Fozzie Bear

Kermit smiled at the thought of Fozzie naming his son after him. He was still sometimes surprised how well his friend had taken to living in the wilderness. After a few winters of hibernating with her and her clan, Fozzie asked Beth Bear to marry him. This was an even bigger shock to Kermit. Kermit was invited to the wedding, but that was the weekend that Piggy left for good. He never forgave himself for not being there for his best friend, but somehow Fozzie understood.

Kermit frowned at the memory of that time and also at Fozzie’s words that they’d be coming to the city. He always promised that about this time of year but he never made it. And now that he and Beth had their daughter Mollie and another cub on the way, well Kermit was just sure that he wasn’t going to see his friend anytime soon.

He got up and put the card in a drawer where he kept all the others. He walked over to the window and thought of each of his friends.

Fozzie of course was in Maine.

Gonzo was in Florida with Camilla. They worked for Disney World now. Gonzo was one of the stand-ins on the Indiana Jones Stunt Spectacular Show. It seemed to fit him well.

Rowlf ended up out in Minnesota where he rediscovered his roots, connecting with family and a childhood friend. He ended up marrying this childhood friend, a cat named Wanda, and together they performed a nightly show in a jazz club.

Scooter went back to college and got his master’s degree in film editing. He was out in California working behind the scenes of various movies.

The Electric Mayhem may be the biggest success story out of Kermit’s friends, making it big across the pond in England. They had quite a following there and seemed content to be Europeans.

Kermit was very happy for his friends; they all seemed to be doing very well. And he was happy that no matter how busy they all were, they checked in with him from time to time. He also knew that none of them heard from Piggy either.

In the first few years they continued asking about how selling the show was going, but one by one they each stopped asking. Kermit could tell they had given up hope of it ever making it. That was about the time he stopped trying to sell the show, tired of rejection.

The show. He rarely thought about that. He still had all of his scripts saved in a special place. In spite of himself he kept thinking that maybe, someday, he could try it again.

He looked up at the moon.

“I always said I would get them back. How am I ever going to get them back? Has it been too long?" he said.

The starts started twinkling brighter.

“I suppose tomorrow is a new day. Maybe something good will happen and get my life back on track," he said. Then he turned and went to bed.

[Muppetfan44]

OMG! Great Update! I couldn't help noticing that Jenny is going to the WTC on the day that no one wanted to be there! (Wondering how that will turn out, probably even more sorrow for Kermit).

I really like all of the backstories of the gang, very creative. I am still dying to know what happened between Kermit and Piggy! I hope we get to hear that soon!

Great job as always, i'm on the edge of my seat at work reading fan fiction instead of doing work, mission accomplished, haha!

Totally excited for more!

:excited:

[redBoobergurl]

DARN 201D CODE!

Ed, help! I should never go back and edit. I got interrupted while posting earlier so I wanted to fix one thing. Sigh.

And yes, it will be a bit dark and depressing for awhile...but this story is called "Together Again" keep that in mind, there will be happiness. We'll get there one step at a time.

[RedPiggy]

Mm, thought that this was where this was heading ...good job!

And what is the deal with the 201D thing? I got that too one time...

[The Count]

Hi... Sorry Beth, but I won't be able to remove the code until I get back to my home computer later tonight. Hope that's OK.
Kelly, whenever a fic gets updated with quotes of dialogue ending in either commas or punctuation marks, transfered from Word to here a strange u201D code is registered instead of the closing quotation mark. Not ure why it happens though, just LMK if you hexperience it and I'll do my best to have it taken care of if you can't remove it yourself.

[redBoobergurl]

It's all good Ed, whenever you can get to it is great. Here's another chapter, I'm on a writing spree today!

September 11, 2001 – Morning

The day dawned sunny and clear. Kermit actually enjoyed the walk in to work because the weather was so lovely. A perfect fall day.

He’d slept really well and had decided maybe now was the time to start thinking about the show again. Sure he’d have to do some updating as 15 years had passed since he first wrote it, but it might be fun to write again. He was actually excited.

“Morning Rizzo!” said Kermit cheerfully when he arrived at Pete’s.

“You’re in a good mood today,” commented Rizzo.

“You know I just feel full of inspiration, like it’s time to turn over a new leaf,” said Kermit.

“Well before you go turning over new leaves you wanna go turn over some pancakes?” asked Rizzo.

Kermit smiled; maybe he would write a part for Rizzo in the updated version of the show. If it was a show about life in the big city, he should include a true New Yorker.

Kermit was so busy daydreaming and thinking up new things in his head, he didn’t notice when the breakfast crowd had thinned out a little earlier than normal.

“Sweet, I’m gonna turn on the Price Is Right before the Rosie show comes on,” said Rizzo.

“Sounds good to me, it’s kind of early for it to be this slow though, don’t you think?” said Kermit.

“Beats me,” said Rizzo turning on the TV.

Kermit started counting tips at the cash register when all of a sudden he heard Rizzo gasp.

“You ok?” asked Kermit without looking up.

Rizzo was silent.

Kermit looked up and was frozen in his spot when he saw what was on the TV, a plane was hanging out of one of the World Trade Center towers and it was on fire.

“Rizzo, what kind of movie is that? Change the channel!” yelled Kermit.

Rizzo didn’t move, his eyes were locked on the screen.

“Change the channel! Change the channel!” screamed Kermit running over and pushing buttons on the remote. The same thing was on the next channel and the channel after that.

“What is going on here? Is this some kind of sick joke?” asked Kermit.

“I…I don’t know man…I….that’s just across town from here….”stuttered Rizzo. For once he was at a loss for words.

“It must be some kind of really bad accident, that must be it,” said Kermit.

A few others who were left in the restaurant came closer to watch the TV. as well.

“Well, it’s a darn shame, let me know if anything else happens, I’m going to go wipe down some tables,” said Kermit deciding it must be an accident. He didn't want to believe it was anything else.

“Oh my god, there’s another one!” screamed one of the customers.

Kermit turned back just in time to see another plane hit the other tower.

“Kerm?” said Rizzo quietly.

“I know, this is no accident,” said Kermit as he sat on a stool now transfixed by what was happening.

Within an hour all news people were declaring it a terrorist attack on New York. Yolanda came into the restaurant with the baby and huddled with Rizzo at a table. The other patrons had left to go and try and locate their loved ones.

Kermit was pacing while watching the TV. The phone lines were dead; he had no way of knowing if Jenny made it out or not. Rizzo stopped him from going down there, saying it would be mass chaos and he’d never find her if he did.

“Oh my goodness, they’re talking to someone at the Pentagon and he thinks they just got hit!” gasped Yolanda.

Kermit shivered, now it was a terrorist attack on the country, not just New York. He started thinking of his friends. Would they all be safe? What about Piggy? How could he know she was safe without even knowing where she was? And he still worried about Jenny; he couldn’t stand the thought of something happening to her.

He ran over to the phone to try again.

“Anything?” asked Rizzo.

“Still dead,” said Kermit.

“I’m sure she’s fine, what time was her meeting?” asked Yolanda.

“She didn’t say. I know she’s not home, I went upstairs and she’s not there. I’m just hoping she was either at her office or not at the towers yet,” said Kermit.

He wondered if any of his friends were worried about him. He wished he had a way to let everyone know he was safe. Mostly he just wished he knew that Jenny was safe. And Piggy too.

The day dragged on and the attack seemed to be over after one final plane went down in a field in Pennsylvania. All planes across the world were grounded. Everything was at a stand still.

Now the images on TV were of those who were looking for loved ones and holding up signs saying “have you seen this person”.

“Maybe I should make a sign and go down there,” said Kermit.

“Maybe he’s right Rizzo,” said Yolanda.

Just then the door of Pete’s burst open.

“Kermit!” exclaimed Jenny looking visibly shaken.

“Jenny! You’re ok!” said Kermit and scrambled into her arms as she bent down to hug him.

“I wasn’t there yet, I was on my way when the first plane hit, then I couldn’t get out of there. There were people in the streets screaming and crying, it was horrific,” said Jenny as Kermit led her over to a chair to sit down.

“We’re just so glad you’re ok,” said Yolanda as her and Rizzo came over to comfort her.

“Me too. I…I…could’ve been in there,” said Jenny as she started to shake more.

Rizzo ran and got her glass of water.

“The important thing is that you weren’t. You’re here with us and everything is going to be ok,” said Kermit.

Jenny looked up to Kermit and over at Rizzo and Yolanda. “How?” she asked.

Kermit looked back over at the TV as the images continued to blare.

“I don’t know, but we have to make it be,” he said. He wasn’t sure if that was even possible. Their world was forever changed.

[Beauregard]

Ok, the purpose of Fan-fiction is to examine posibilities...What if's, if you will. What if Kermit had to return to the Swamp? What if Robin's parents were divorced? What if someone tried to bulldoze Sesame Street? What if Kermit was never born, or Kermit died, or, etc...

This is a story that splits from the true Muppet universe and enters untrood waters. What if the Muppets split up? -- But doesn't do it by splitting them up, it joins from a point in one of the movies, giving it extra strength. It's another universe, in a way, not an ideal Hollywoodized universe.

It's so sad that Kermit isn't in touch with all his friends, and especially Piggy, but it's so great that they've found niche's for themselves. Fozzie as a parents couldn't happen in regular fanfiction spheres, but can here because it's an alternate universe -- similar to Piggy and Gonzo being together in the Dark Universe.

So far, I love the direction. How tomorrow is handled will seal the deal!

[redBoobergurl]

Yep! Right you are Beau. Basically in this story everything that happens up until Kermit gets the letter from Ronnie Crawford in the movie DID happen...including Piggy coming back to the restaurant, we'll get to that later though. And it is sort of uncharted waters for me to write too! I have to say though, that I really like where I'm going with this and I just can't wait to get us there! Not to make light of the largest national tragedy to hit this country, but it's really serving as some good inspiration for me and my writing!

[WhiteRabbit]

=( =( =( *wipes away tear* So devastating but a fantastic story. I'm digging the suspense as well!

[theprawncracker]

...Wow... Incredible Beth, you handled that situation very well, especially with Rizzo, I thought, it struck me very well. Very, very nice. More please, I must see how this plays out.

[RedPiggy]

The interesting thing about this whole fic is, when I woke up that morning (with a nightmare about horrific deaths happening), shortly after the second plane hit ... I was also transfixed on the screen. Then, the buildings came down ... and my first (honest) thought was ... "Gosh, I hope the Creature Shop and the folks at Sesame Street are ok."

[Beauregard]

My first thought in the London bombings was, "Is Luke alright? Where does Warrick live? Was anyone else from MC in London?"

[The Count]

Hey... Fixed it for you Beth. Now post more please!

[AnimatedC9000]

Don't rush her, Count. She's probably writing some of it right now.

By the way, this is a great story. I personally hope that you continue.

~ AnimatedC

[redBoobergurl]

Don't worry about it AnimatedC, Ed (The Count) and I are both naggers when it comes to fan fiction! We like to beg for more as soon as a chapter gets posted! Keeps everyone on their toes!

As for more, should be up a little later today.

[The Count]

Yesh... And spooking of which... Not sure if you noticed two additions were made to my own thread. Check 'em out, we can talk there about potential ideas for the next.

So please do post more Ish. Oh... *Leaves mug of coffee and one of Christine's derby bat brownies for Bathy, erm, Beth.
:batty: :insatiable: :shifty:

[redBoobergurl]

Before this next installment I just wanted to explain to new readers that Wanda is a character I created in a different set of stories, my Rowlf series. I've become quite fond of her as I know others have as well, and I couldn't bear the fact of not putting her in this story even though this story doesn't necessarily follow the cannon that my other stories do. So I put her in this story and figured it was just another way her and Rowlf could've met.

Also, I said there'd be no newer characters, but I lied. One will pop up in this installement.

Ok, enjoy!

September 11, 2001 – Morning again

Minneapolis, Minnesota

Rowlf rolled over in bed and watched as his wife lazily slept curled up in typical cat style. It may be an odd match, but he couldn’t imagine being married to anyone else. They dealt with adversity, but their love was strong enough to get past most of it.

Besides, he once knew of a frog and pig who loved one another and a chicken and a whatever. If anything his days with the gang prepared him for finding love in whatever form it was presented to you.

Wanda was a beautiful calico with a singing voice that could rival Whitney Houston, yet also had the soul a true jazz great like Billie Holiday. Together, her and Rowlf ran and performed at a jazz club in Minneapolis.

Rowlf smiled to himself. He missed the gang all of the time and still found it depressing that they had all separated. But out of the worst time of his life came one of the most wonderful.

Wanda stretched and turned over to face her husband.

“Morning,” she said.

“Hey gorgeous,” said Rowlf.

Late nights at the club allowed them to sleep in and be lazy together. This morning was no exception so Rowlf turned over to flip on the TV as he did most mornings so they could doze some more while listening to the morning news headlines on the Today Show.

He turned back to cuddle with his wife.

“It appears a second plane has now hit one of the towers,” said the news anchor.

“What is becoming clearer is that this is no accident, this is a deliberate act,” said another anchor.

Rowlf and Wanda sat up so they could see the TV.

“Oh my gosh is that in New York?” gasped Wanda.

“I think it’s the Trade Center towers, what in the world is going on?” said Rowlf asking a rhetorical question.

They watched the coverage for a little longer when suddenly Rowlf bolted over to the phone.

“Are you calling Kermit?” asked Wanda quietly.

“Yeah, I need to know he’s ok. I know we don’t talk on the phone at all, but I’ve always kept the number for Pete’s in case of an emergency,” said Rowlf.

“I’d say this qualifies,” said Wanda. She went over to wait with Rowlf while he dialed. She’d never met his old friend, but knew all about him as Rowlf talked about his days with Kermit and the gang all of the time.

“It’s saying my call cannot be connected,” said Rowlf.

“I wonder if the lines are just really busy in New York right now,” said Wanda.

“That’s probably true,” said Rowlf.

“That restaurant he works at, how far away is it from the towers?” asked Wanda.

“It’s pretty much across town from what I can remember. It’s been a long time though,” said Rowlf.

“I’m sure he’ll be all right. We can try calling again later,” said Wanda.

“Yeah, I’m sure you’re right,” said Rowlf. As he turned back to the TV where they were announcing that a third plane had just hit the Pentagon, he wondered if they would even be all right.

Los Angeles, California

Scooter sat in the airport drinking a latte and reading the entertainment section of the paper.

“I hope our flight is on time,” he said to his business associate sitting next to him.

“Yeah, I don’t know why we have to go out to Canada for this stupid festival,” said his associate, a guy with long dreadlocks named Clifford.

“It’s the Sundance film festival, it’s not stupid,” said Scooter.

“Well maybe there’ll be some hot chicks just dying to hang out with some nice fellows from the movie industry,” said Clifford.

Scooter just shook his head.

Suddenly an announcement came over the loudspeaker. “All flights are cancelled until further notice. Please see the ticket counters for more information. I repeat, all flights are cancelled until further notice.”

“What the heck?” said Clifford.

“I’ll go find out what’s going on,” said Scooter and went over to the ticket counter. It was mass chaos as everyone was scrambling to get to the front to find out what was going on.

“Something happened in New York,” he heard someone behind him say.

“I heard that hijacked planes are flying into all major U.S. landmarks,” said someone else.

Scooter turned around from the ticket counter and went in search of a television. He found another mob crowd gathered around one at a bar.

The headline at the bottom of the screen said “Attack on America” and they were showing footage of the World Trade Center that had just collapsed after a plane was flown into it.

Scooter ran back to Clifford at the chairs.

“This is serious man, some hijacked planes flew into the World Trade Center in New York,” said Scooter.

“No kidding?” said Clifford after letting out a low whistle. All of a sudden they became aware of people around them frantically rushing around, dialing their cell phones, calling loved ones.

“I guess we should just go home, we’re not going anywhere today,” said Scooter realizing the seriousness of the situation.

They grabbed their bags and headed for the door.

“Hey man, don’t you have an old friend living out in New York?” asked Clifford as they stepped outside.

“Yeah, I do,” said Scooter. They walked in silence while looking for a cab.

Portland, Maine

Fozzie tried calling Pete’s for the tenth time since hearing the news. He and Beth lived in the wilderness with the other bears, but walked into town to use the phone at a small general store. It was while shopping at the store that Fozzie heard what happened.

“Still no luck?” said the store owner as Fozzie hung up again.

“It just keeps saying the call can’t go through,” said Fozzie.

“I’m sure things will be back up later, why don’t you come back then,” said the store owner.

Fozzie started walking back to the cave. Now he was feeling guilty about all those promised visits to New York that never happened. It wasn’t like it was that far away. Kermit was his best friend, had he really reduced him to someone he just wrote a note to several times a year?

He was now worried that he would never see Kermit again. If he was ok Fozzie was going to pack Beth and Mollie up and get on the next flight to New York.

Then he thought some more and decided, maybe flying to New York wasn’t a safe thing to do. What if something like this happened again? He couldn’t do that to his wife and daughter. Kermit would just have to come there. That’s it, he’d invite Kermit to come up there. Maybe he could even live with them.

That is if he is still alive.

Fozzie sat down on a rock.

“KERRMMMITTT!” he howled causing some birds to fly out of a tree.

London, England

“Like, this is some crazy stuff going on in the states. I’m glad we’re not there,” said Janice.

“What makes you think we’re so safe here? I ain’t leaving the flat for awhile,” said Dr. Teeth.

“Fer sure, I guess it could happen anywhere,” said Janice.

The members of the Electric Mayhem hadn’t been able to tear themselves away from the TV in the main room of the large place they shared in downtown London. Even Zoot was awake for once, but at a loss for what to say.

“Hey guys, you wondering about our little green buddy?” asked Floyd.

“FROGGIE! FROGGIE!” said Animal.

“I’m sure Kermit is at Pete’s. Why would he go to the Trade Center?” said Dr. Teeth.

“What about that cute little thing he sees off and on over there, what’s her name again?” said Floyd.

“Oh right. Like, Jenny could be there, that’s true,” said Janice.

“Well I don’t think we’re going to be able to get a hold of him for awhile, the dude on the news just said phone lines are tied up and cell phones are working over there,” said Dr. Teeth.

“Like, Kermit will try and let us know he’s ok though right?” said Janice.

No one responded. They didn’t want to think about the unthinkable.

[Muppetfan44]

Very nice addition! I was wondering how the rest of the gang would respond. Although i hope another chapter pops up soon that lets us know what gonzo, and especially Piggy are thinking right now. I'm really curious to see where Piggy actually is and what happened that drove her and kermit apart, but I know it will hear it eventually (the suspense is killing me though)

Well, I should probably get back to working hard, or hardly working, hehe, you decide.

Great Chapter!

[The Count]

Beth... This is indeed a narrative of most heavy-duty proportions. You deserve a good review, and confidentially I think someone else will do it before I get a chance to. Either that, or more story will be posted. Just know that you've made me hunker down and care for what happens next, not that I don't in most stories I read... But this has just been elevated in magnitude and voluminitude. Please...
*Quietly, post more.

[AnimatedC9000]

Well said, Count, well said.

Nice to hear from the rest of the gang and how they're taking it. And Wanda sounds like an interesting character. I can't wait for the next update!

~ AnimatedC

[RedPiggy]

:O Way to guilt trip Fozzie ... lol.

Even more than Piggy ... I wonder what Robin's reaction is. I have a few thoughts about Piggy ... but I agree with your tactic of keeping her out of it until bringing her up is absolutely necessary.

[Beauregard]

Oh! Somehow I missed the last update! I've just read then, and while I reel in the shock of those memories flooding back to me, I know you have also presented this in a tastefull and amazing manner without trying to use the shock value.

I remember how no one could believe it was happening...

[The Count]

Hi... AC, Wanda is indeed a wanderful character. Go back and read Beth's Rowlf's Stories and see if you agree as we've come to know and welcome her into the fanfic community of Muppets.
Book 1: Where Your Heart Leads You.
Book 2: The Ties That Bind.
Book 3: An Unbreakable Bond.
Mini Book 1: Magical Moments.
Book 4: In Love and Harmony.
Book 5: The Next Step.
Mini Book 2: A Father's Love.
Hope this helps. :sympathy:

[redBoobergurl]

Oh! Somehow I missed the last update! I've just read then, and while I reel in the shock of those memories flooding back to me, I know you have also presented this in a tastefull and amazing manner without trying to use the shock value.

I remember how no one could believe it was happening...

Thanks Beau! I really tried hard to keep the "shock and awe" factor out and focus more on the human (well ok Muppet) perspective on this.

More reactions will be coming, we will here from Gonzo soon and Robin and others....in their own time. And the tone will shift from being all about that day, but I needed to set the stage for where we're going.

We'll get there with time, if I can write over the weekend I will, otherwise expect an update on Monday!

[theprawncracker]

Oh Beth... WOW! This is SO powerful, I'm totally being moved by this, and not just because my chair is on wheels! :p It's really, really good characterization and, again, very powerful. Loved seeing Clifford, nice inclusion! Can't wait to read more Beth! :D

[Muppetfan44]

Anxiously awaiting updates on this great story. I'm getting wireless internet finally put into my new apartment today so I hope I'll have a fun addition to read tonight!

Have a great day and post soon!

:super:

[redBoobergurl]

September 12, 2001 Back in New York

Kermit, Jenny, Rizzo, Yolanda and the rest of the rats spent a sleepless night in Jenny’s apartment upstairs watching the footage. In truth, they all just feared going to sleep knowing those same images would haunt their dreams.

Finally at around 5:30 am Kermit got up and switched the TV off.

“Hey, what are you doing that for?” asked Rizzo.

“Because we are going downstairs to open for the day,” said Kermit.

“Are you sure about that, I doubt anyone is coming in,” said Masterson.

“Well, who knows, there may be people coming and going from Ground Zero that might want a hot bite to eat,” said Kermit.

“You know something, Kermit’s right. It’s what my dad would’ve done,” said Jenny.

The rats grumbled a little more but mostly from being overtired, they all agreed opening the restaurant was the right thing to do.

“I’m going to work in the restaurant today. I don’t think my office is going to open and if we are, I don’t want to go in today,” said Jenny.

“I understand,” said Kermit secretly glad as he would’ve encouraged her to stay behind if she had tried to go.

They made their way downstairs, quickly wiped down tables and started up the griddle. Rizzo turned the TV on so anyone coming in would get the most up to date information. Kermit flipped over the closed sign.

To their surprise, a few of the breakfast regulars stumbled in after about a half hour. They all had rather vacant looks in their eyes, but also looks of gratitude as Jenny and the other rats set about taking their orders. It was almost as if they were silently thanking them for granting them some normalcy when the world around them was anything but.

Sometime around 8:00 the phone rang.

“Guess the lines are back up!” said Rizzo.

“I’ll get it,” said Kermit.

He walked over and grabbed it on the third ring.

“Pete’s Delicatessen, Kermit speaking,” he said.

“Kermit! You’re ok!” came a gravelly sounding somewhat familiar voice on the other end.

“Gonzo? Is that you?” asked Kermit,

“Yeah it’s me. I’ve been trying to get through all night! I was worried about you!” said Gonzo.

Even though it had been years since Kermit had spent any amount of time with the weirdo he actually paused waiting for one of Gonzo’s typical obscure responses to what he thought could’ve happened to Kermit.

“Kermit? Are you still there?” asked Gonzo again when it was silent for a moment.

“Oh yes, I’m here, sorry,” said Kermit.

“So you’re ok?” asked Gonzo.

“Yeah, we’re fine, a little shook up, but we’re ok. Still standing,” said Kermit.

“That’s good. They closed down the parks down here and all the guests are stuck in their hotel rooms. It’s crazy, people want to go home, but they aren’t allowed to fly yet,” said Gonzo.

“I can imagine that would be the case,” said Kermit.

“Have you heard from any of the guys?” asked Gonzo.

“No, not yet, I don’t talk on the phone real often with any of you really,” said Kermit.

“Well I want to try to change that. When something like this happens it really makes you re-evaluate your priorities,” said Gonzo.

“I suppose you’re right,” said Kermit.

“Well I’ll let you go for now, I don’t want to keep your phone tied up in case someone else is trying to call. I’m glad you’re ok, I’ll be in touch soon,” said Gonzo.

They hung up the phone and Kermit shook his head at how he’d just had a normal conversation with his normally strange friend. But nothing was normal about today and so much time had gone by.

“Who was on the phone?” asked Jenny coming up to close out a bill at the cash register.

“Gonzo,” said Kermit.

“Oh! Is he all right?” asked Jenny.

“Yep, he and Camilla are still down working at Disney World. Gonzo said they closed the parks down and all the guests are stuck in hotels,” said Kermit.

“Wow, that’s amazing. I wonder how long before the planes will be flying again,” said Jenny.

The morning went on and while there were not a ton of customers, there was still a fair amount. Everyone was sharing stories about where they were when it happened, people they knew who had been there, people they knew who were still missing and people they knew were helping with the search and recovery effort.

Kermit sat back and smiled, he knew he’d done the right thing by staying open; he was giving people a place to connect.

He talked on the phone with several others of his old friends. Scooter, Rowlf and Dr. Teeth all managed to get through. Kermit was touched by the fact that they were all so worried about him and it made him miss them more than ever.

He didn’t ask if any of them had heard from Piggy though and none of them asked him either. He wished more than ever that they were all together again. The events of the last couple of days had proven life was too short for regrets.

After dinner and the last customers had left Jenny, Kermit and Rizzo remained in the restaurant sitting around a table.

“So the phone sure rang a lot today,” said Rizzo.

“Yeah, it was most of the gang calling to check up on me. I can’t believe they all still care so much after all this time,” said Kermit.

“Kermit, they’re still your friends. I’m sure they all miss you and wish that they could still be here,” said Jenny.

“They must miss you for all the mail you get from time to time!” exclaimed Rizzo.

“I just can’t help but wonder why they still care when I failed them all,” said Kermit.

“You didn’t fail them Kermit, it’s just one of those things,” said Jenny.

“I keep telling ya, it’s not too late,” said Rizzo.

“What’s he talking about?” asked Jenny as Kermit shook his head.

“I keep telling him he could still get that show on Broadway, he ain’t tried in years, but now is a different time,” said Rizzo.

“You’re right Rizzo, now is a different time,” said Kermit slowly.

“Of course I’m right, I’m always right,” said Rizzo.

“People aren’t going to come to New York anymore for fear of being killed by terrorists, either on the plane to get here or just by being here. Yeah, sounds like a great time to go sell a show on Broadway, especially a Broadway that’s already suffering. That’s how different now is!” yelled Kermit getting worked up.

“That’s not what I meant,” said Rizzo.

“That might not be what you meant, but it’s true. Forget the show, it’s been too long and after yesterday there’s no way it’s ever going to happen!” exclaimed Kermit pushing out of his chair and storming into the kitchen.

“I didn’t mean to start anything,” said Rizzo.

“It’s ok; we’ve all been through a lot over the last 24 hours. He misses his friends all the time, he still hasn’t heard from Piggy,” said Jenny trailing off on the last part of the sentence.

Rizzo just looked at her. None of them ever talked about Piggy.

Jenny got up and went to find Kermit. She found him out in the back sitting by the garbage can.

“Hey,” she said softly.

“Hi,” said Kermit.

“You looking for Oscar?” said Jenny attempting a joke.

“No, of course not,” said Kermit standing up.

“Rizzo wasn’t trying to start anything, really,” said Jenny.

“I know he wasn’t. It’s just that I think about the show all the time and the guys and well everything. I was just thinking about re-writing the show a bit and trying again. I was going to try and get the gang back together. But then the attack happened,” said Kermit.

“I didn’t know you’d been getting serious about it,” said Jenny.

“Not serious, but I literally woke up yesterday and said, ok, I’m ready to take this on again and now I’m like, nope, can’t do this,” said Kermit.

“I have never stopped believing in your show Kermit. I think it could be just the thing to save New York,” said Jenny.

“Really?” said Kermit.

“Think about it,” said Jenny leaning down to kiss him on the cheek and then going back inside.

Kermit walked around a little stepping over a puddle. He thought about what Jenny said. It was a show about life in the big city. The big city was hurting, but maybe a big show about the big city would be just the thing to help everyone heal. And in the process he could bring all of his friends back together so maybe, just maybe, his own wounds would heal as well.

[theprawncracker]

Oh I LOVED this chapter! The conversation with Gonzo was so touching, I'm glad that, out of all the phone calls, you showed us that one. Also I really, really like how you have Rizzo characterized, very funny. MORE PLEASE! :excited:

[Muppetfan44]

I totally agree with prawnie! Great Chapter. I love how the show is being used to bring back morale to New York. It's the muppet way!

Please post more soon!:) :halo:

[The Count]

Sah-rre... :halo:
Um, forgive me? Last chapter good... Post more Ish?
*Hopes to remedy own thread's disappearance soon with another addition, even if it hasn't gotten replies either.

[redBoobergurl]

October 1st, 2001

It had now been almost a month since the attacks and it was very clear that the aftershocks would be long lasting. New fears popped up each day about other terrorist threats. And as Kermit had predicted, Broadway was definitely taking a hit. Longtime shows started talking about closing due to low sales.

But Kermit was determined. He really took Jenny’s words to heart and sat about re-writing and updating his show. He had not yet told his friends that he was doing this. He didn’t want to get their hopes up only to fail them all once again.

It was hard to not tell them, since the day after the attacks, he had now begun talking regularly on the phone with each of them. He was surprised at how much they’d all lived up to their promise to keep in touch better.

Yet he still had not heard from Piggy. He tried not to dwell on it, he was pretty certain that there was no way she was in New York on the day of the attacks, yet he did scan the paper when new names were listed of victims identified. Sadly he felt that the reality was almost worse. He figured she just had stopped caring about him after all this time and realized he should accept that she was no longer part of his life.

Business was slow at the restaurant, but it allowed Kermit to get a lot of writing done.

Today was no different and Kermit sat and read over his script yet again.

“How’s it coming?” asked Rizzo.

“I think I’ve finally got it, but it feels like there’s still something missing,” said Kermit.

“He keeps saying that, but I told him it’s really good. I think it’s got the potential to be a big hit,” said Jenny.

Jenny had been more shook up than they had realized about the fact that she was supposed to be at the Towers on 9/11. She tried going back to work at Macy’s but was finding she suffered from panic attacks. Finally she gave up, submitted her resignation and started working full time at Pete’s. At Pete’s she felt safe, connected to her father and almost overnight her nightmares stopped and she was almost back to normal.

Kermit shook his head. Rizzo and Jenny were his friends, of course they would say it was a good show, what would a real live Broadway exec think?

Rizzo turned back to the TV where Rosie O’Donnell was back on the air.

She was announcing a guest that was familiar to Kermit.

“Hey, its dat little red guy from that street you used to live on,” said Rizzo.

“Oh yeah, Elmo,” laughed Kermit. He knew that the furry red monster was actually pretty good friends with the talk show host.

“Hey! Maybe he could get you on her show,” said Rizzo.

“I told you, I’m not going to do that. Besides, I can’t take advantage of Elmo like that, he’s just a little guy,” said Kermit.

Kermit watched as Elmo talked about how the Sesame Street residents were scared when the attacks happened but that they were all ok. He smiled; Elmo made things seem so simple.

While Kermit was watching TV a man who looked to be about Jenny’s age came and sat at the counter.

“Excuse me,” said the man.

Kermit turned around.

“Oh I’m sorry, I didn’t see you there. What can I get you?” asked Kermit.

“Just a cup of coffee would be nice,” said the man.

Kermit grabbed a mug and filled it then set it in front of the man with sugar and cream on the side.

“Thanks,” said the man.

“You’re welcome. Sorry I wasn’t paying attention when you came in, we haven’t had a lot of business around this time of day for quite awhile,” said Kermit.

“I can understand that,” said the man. He sat and just stared at his cup and stirred it with spoon. Kermit recognized the behavior from years of working at Pete’s that this was a person who wanted to talk to someone, anyone who would listen.

“So, did you know anyone in the Towers?” asked Kermit using what sadly had now become a way of breaking the ice with people.

“No, fortunately everyone I know is safe,” said the man.

“That’s good,” said Kermit.

“My life is still a mess though. I feel like a complete failure,” said the man.

Well now, Kermit could relate to that!

“Really? Tell me about it. What happened?” asked Kermit.

“Oh I don’t know, I shouldn’t dump my problems on you,” said the man.

“It’s ok really. I’m used to it in this business. Besides that, I think I can relate,” said Kermit.

“Really? Hey, what’s your name?” asked the man.

“I’m Kermit the Frog,” said Kermit.

“Oh you’re not Pete?” said the man.

“Nope, Pete passed on a few years back, so I run the place now,” said Kermit.

“Well it’s nice to meet you Kermit. I’m Ronnie Crawford,” said Ronnie identifying himself for the first time.

Kermit thought the name sounded familiar.

“I feel like I’ve heard your name before,” said Kermit.

“Well you probably have. I took over my dad’s firm; he was a big Broadway producer, Bernard Crawford? Anyway, he retired some years ago and I took everything over. But now that Broadway is a mess, well the business is failing. My dad’s most successful shows have shut down. I can’t get anything up and running,” said Ronnie.

“Wow, I’m sorry to hear that,” said Kermit.

Meanwhile Rizzo had come up behind them and overheard the conversation. He ran back to the kitchen to tell Jenny.

“Kermit’s out there talking to some big producer!” said Rizzo.

“Really? Is he telling him about the show?” asked Jenny.

“No, he’s just talking to the guy. Sounds like the guy is all depressed like,” said Rizzo.

“Well Kermit is a good listener,” said Jenny.

“He should tell him about the show!” exclaimed Rizzo.

“Rizzo, leave it alone, if Kermit wants to bring it up, he will,” said Jenny and walked back out to serve a table.

Rizzo turned and saw that Kermit happened to have a copy of his script sitting on the desk. He walked over and grabbed it.

“He’ll thank me for this later,” thought Rizzo as he ran out to where Kermit and Ronnie were talking.

“Excuse me but my good friend the frog here happens to have written a fantastic Broadway show and I have it right here,” said Rizzo.

“RIZZO! No! I told you it’s not ready yet. Ronnie didn’t come here looking for someone to pitch him a script!” exclaimed Kermit trying to snatch the script out of Rizzo’s hands. He was furious, how dare Rizzo do this!

“Actually, what is it about? I’d love to take a look at it,” said Ronnie.

“Really?” asked Kermit.

“Yeah, it can’t be any worse than anything else I’ve seen lately,” said Ronnie. Kermit stared at him.

“It was a joke,” said Ronnie.

“All right, here, but I have to warn you, I feel like there’s still something missing,” said Kermit.

Ronnie sat and read the entire script from front to back all afternoon. Kermit paced around the kitchen nervously.

“Relax, I’m sure he’s going to love it,” said Jenny. She didn’t want to let on to Kermit, but she was actually quite taken with Ronnie in the short amount of time he’d been there.

Finally around 5:00 he set the script down.

“Well?” asked Kermit timidly.

Ronnie didn’t say anything.

“That bad huh? I knew something was missing,” said Kermit.

“I love it! It’s so different! I think it’s just what Broadway needs right now!” exclaimed Ronnie.

“Really? That’s great!” said Kermit.

“There’s just one question left,” said Ronnie.

“What’s that?” asked Kermit.

“How soon can you get your friends back here? I want this on Broadway by Christmas,” said Ronnie.

Kermit’s jaw nearly dropped to the ground.

[RedPiggy]

LOL ... well, at least Alt-Ronnie is giving Alt-Kermie more time for the play... ;D

I loved Kermit's reaction when Rizzo gave Ronnie the script.

[The Count]

*Huggles.. Beth, I love this. Please post more when you can.
Thank you. Will have to post what affected me most around that time, if you rully want to hear/read it though.

Again... More please! :sympathy: :shifty: :excited:

[Muppetfan44]

Great addition! I can't wait to see what kermit does to get the gang back. I'm also curious about how he changed the show. The progression of the whole story is great, not too fast and revealing too much at once, but not too slow either with huge lapses in between big plot moments. Great job!

Please post more soon!

[theprawncracker]

WHEEEEEEEEEEE! That chapter was GREAT, Beth! WHEEE! ! ! I LOVED it! I thought the part where Kermit thought, "Elmo makes everything so simple" was adorable! Again, LOVED it! More please!

[redBoobergurl]

*Huggles.. Beth, I love this. Please post more when you can.
Thank you. Will have to post what affected me most around that time, if you rully want to hear/read it though.

Again... More please! :sympathy: :shifty: :excited:

Sure, if you'd like to share, I don't mind reading it.

I hope to get up more tomorrow, we'll have to see how my last day at my current job goes!

[The Count]

Okays... Posted to my thread. Your turn now Ish. If you wanna find out about thoughts running in me head, post/PM me please... You'll get the scoop before Squeax, you are reporter ready are ju not? *Confuses Beth with her Gotham City counterpart. You might wanna be careful, Mr. Dent's other persona has been revealed...

Sweet vacation!
Destination: Update!

:insatiable:, oh sorry, wrong fic subject.
Any luck/help needed to return to Cookie's story?

[redBoobergurl]

Oh boy, Cookie's story. Yes, that will be gotten back to one of these days!

As to story today, not happening, cleaning out my old office space in prep for moving to my new office space. But this story is not to be abandoned, don't you worry about that! Coming soon!

[Muppetfan44]

Anxiously awaiting another update. I feel like this story is really going to take off and I can't wait to go along for the ride! ;) Post more soon! Have a great day



Fave muppet quote ever (just a little fun fact):
Gonzo: "Wrath, is this captain bad-tempered?"

Sam: "Is he bad-tempered? The man is a raging volcano, tormented by inner demons the likes of which mere mortals cannot fathom!"

Gonzo: He's got demons? Cool!"

[redBoobergurl]

Oh how I want to sit and write in this story! But unfortunately, new job has me a bit busy with training and learning. I'm really just checking in on a break right now. But trust me, it will come at some point! I have to figure out when I'll have time to do it, but it will happen! I promise that!

[BeakerSqueedom]

;_;...Aww...well update when you can, hun!

[The Count]

*Aims ! laser cannon at author. Don't you think it's about time for an update?
*Repositions ! at the audience, don't you?

[redBoobergurl]

I soooo want to get back to this, I really do. I know exactly what is going on in the next installment, but I have yet to get it written down! Soon, I promise!

[redBoobergurl]

Ok, somehow after the last post I magically had time. So here is a long awaited update!

October 1st 2001 London, England

She was frazzled. The phone was ringing off the hook, she still needed to go pick up the lunch order and she still hadn’t finished typing up the changes on the upcoming winter line.

Everyone wanted Lady Holiday to come to their tribute for the victims in New York. She would just have to sit Lady Holiday down and figure out which one she wanted to grace with her presence.

She sighed as she looked at the clock, it was getting closer to noon. If she didn’t go get those lunches soon she’d be in trouble.

Piggy paused for a moment, still unsure of how she got to this point. She was miserable; this was not the place she wanted to be. After her failed relationship with Kermit she left the United States for Paris. She figured she’d try her luck at modeling in one of the fashion capitals of the world. She didn’t find much success but stuck it out far too long because of Pierre. Pierre was no Kermit, but he did make her feel special. He helped her out of one of the darkest times of her life. The breakup was amicable; they simply just found they were better friends than lovers and remained good friends to this day.

Pierre convinced her to give it up in Paris and move on to London where she landed a job behind the scenes as assistant to Lady Holiday, the biggest Fashionista in the world. Piggy settled for just being an assistant. She was tired of trying so hard and failing.

And then there was Nicky.

Oh how she was so torn about Nicky. Nicky was Lady Holiday’s brother. He swept Piggy off her feet into a whirlwind romance. Again, he was no Kermit, but there was an element of excitement about being with him. Sometimes, he even aided in her forgetting all about Kermit.

Not the day of the attacks though. Or any day since. She became so upset when she heard the news she had to go home early and sat by the phone and sobbed as she watched the images on TV. She could not bring herself to call him though. Not after the way things ended so many years ago.

She wondered everyday if he was ok, if their other friends were ok. She had not been in touch with a single one of them. She just assumed they all had chosen his side when things had ended.

“Miss Piggy? I need you to get those lunches at once!” said Lady Holiday bringing Piggy out of her thoughts.

“Oh yes, right away!” she said and hurried to the door. Fortunately the sandwich shop was just around the corner.

As she walked she thought about her relationship with Nicky. The one thing that bothered her most about him was his business sense or lack there of. In fact, he was downright shady when it came to that type of thing. That and sometimes Piggy felt suffocated. She loved the attention, but wondered if she really wanted to stay with him. She almost felt obligated to because of her job.

She opened the door of the sandwich shop.

“I have an order for Holiday,” said Piggy.

“Right away Miss Piggy, we don’t want to keep you waiting,” said the shop owner. She had been there many times before.

“Like, oh my god,” came a familiar voice from behind her. Piggy whirled around and found herself face to face with Janice.

“Janice? Is that you?” asked Piggy.

“Fer sure! Is it really you Piggy?” asked Janice.

“Yes, it’s me,” said Piggy.

“Like, wow! You look great! What are you doing here?” said Janice.

“Well, I live here, I work around the corner from here,” said Piggy.

“No way! Like, the guys and I have been living here for years, we play all over England. They totally dig us over here,” said Janice.

“Well I’ve been here a few years, I’m surprised we haven’t run into each other sooner,” said Piggy.

“Totally. So, crazy stuff going on in the States huh?’ said Janice.

“Um yeah, it’s pretty crazy,” said Piggy.

“Like the green dude’s all like ‘the spirit has left New York City’” said Janice obviously referring to Kermit.

“You…you’ve talked to Kermit?” asked Piggy.

“Yeah, we used to just send letters but since that day we’ve been calling when we can,” said Janice.

Piggy felt her heart skip a beat. Kermit was alive. And safe.

“So he’s ok?” asked Piggy.

“He’s fine, so are all those rats that work in that café thing he runs and so is that chick he hangs out with,” said Janice.

Piggy didn’t care if he was still hanging around with Jenny; just knowing he was alive was enough to bring tears of joy to her eyes.

“Miss Piggy? Here’s your order,” said the sandwich clerk.

“I guess I have to go, my boss will be angry if I don’t get back quickly,” said Piggy.

“Like, we should get together sometime. Here’s the number to our flat, give us a call,” said Janice handing Piggy a card.

“I will do that,” said Piggy and rushed out.

She smiled as she walked back to the office. Maybe she was meant to get a second chance...at everything.

[RedPiggy]

Sigh ... so, no torrid Nikki affairs then? :D LOL.

Oh well, didn't see that coming ... though I guess I should have.

I love this story...

[The Count]

*Hugs chapter. *Hugs Beth. You know how much I love your writing, and the fact that you're writing, and how your writing shows when you're writing... *Stops self, beginning to sound just as bad as Bo. Please, post more?

[Muppetfan44]

YAY! That was so great! We finally figured out where Piggy is. I love the whole Piggy-Nicky relationship, great angle! I still want to know what happened between her and kermit so many years ago, I hope we find that out soon. I can't wait to see Kermit's reaction if Janice tells him that she has talked to Piggy. This story is definitely like a book that I don't want to put down. Please post more soon!

:flirt:

[The Count]

Yesh... Beth's stories are like that. You should read her Rowlf's Stories or Fraggle fics. BTW: Have you found Indiana Frog fanfic or that extra chapter of KG yet?
:smirk: :coy: :excited:

[AnimatedC9000]

Yay, more story!

I LOVE this story so much! And this chapter was awesome to read! Can't wait for the next chapter!

~ AnimatedC

[theprawncracker]

OOH! That's intense, Beth! Glad to finally shed some light on Piggy's situation! *shudders* Hope she gets back to Kermit soon...

[redBoobergurl]

October 5th, 2001 New York City

Kermit sat and stared at the phone. This should not be hard. Just pick it up and start calling his friends. It should be easier now in fact, the lines of communication are already open.

It felt weird to be sitting in his apartment and not at Pete’s. He was never home during the day. Jenny had insisted though that if he was going to start calling his friends he should do it someplace where he could be alone and not interrupted.

Kermit was thrilled that Ronnie wanted to produce the show. He was not thrilled that he had such little time to get things going. He told Ronnie he felt there was something missing still, but Ronnie said they would figure it out as they went. He just felt that this was the show Broadway needed right now. They were going to restore hope and faith in New York.

All that Kermit needed to do was provide a cast. Ronnie said he’d be happy to find replacements if Kermit didn’t think he’d get his friends back, but Kermit said he’d at least try to get them to come. He couldn't imagine doing this without them.

But it had been 15 years. That was a long time. He decided to start with the one he thought would be easiest.

“Country Store, this is Bernie,” said a voice over the phone.

“I’m trying to reach Fozzie Bear,” said Kermit.

“Hey you’re in luck, he’s working stock for me today,” said Bernie.

Kermit waited for his best friend to pick up the phone.

“Fozzie’s the name, jokes are my game,” said Fozzie getting on the phone.

“Hey, it’s me. When’d you start working at the store? I was just hoping Bernie would track you down, I didn't think you worked there,” said Kermit.

“Kermit! Hi! How are you? I started working here a couple of weeks ago. I am saving up for something important,” said Fozzie.

“Oh, ok. Well speaking of important things, I’m calling with important news,” said Kermit.

“What’s that?” asked Fozzie.

“How would you, Beth and Mollie like to come to New York?” asked Kermit.

“How did you know that is what I was saving up for?” asked Fozzie.

“Oh, well I guess I didn’t. I’m glad you want to come, I really want to see you, but the bigger thing is I’m getting the whole gang back together. I finally sold the show,” said Kermit.

“You sold the show? Really? I knew you could do it!” exclaimed Fozzie excitedly.

He and Kermit talked for awhile longer discussing details of when he’d need to arrive. Fozzie determined that he could afford for just himself to come and that as long as she was ok with it he’d send for Beth and their daughter later.

“Kermit? I’m so excited to see you,” said Fozzie as they wrapped their conversation up.

“Me too,” said Kermit. He hung up the phone and smiled. The bear was easy. Hopefully the others would be too.

He got Rowlf on the phone next.

“Playing with the whole gang again? That sounds great. One problem though,” said Rowlf.

“What’s that?” asked Kermit.

“Well, I don’t really want to leave Wanda behind. You should hear her sing man, maybe she could be in the show too,” said Rowlf.

“I trust your judgment on that one. Bring her along. Besides, maybe I’ll end up putting you two in the lead roles,” said Kermit a little sadly.

“You don’t think you’ll get Piggy to come back?” asked Rowlf. It felt weird to even say her name; it had been a forbidden topic for so long.

“I don’t know how to get in touch with her,” said Kermit.

“Does anyone?” asked Rowlf.

“Not as far as I know,” said Kermit.

They discussed details and planned to have Rowlf and Wanda arrive a couple of days after Fozzie.

Kermit had similar conversations with Gonzo and Scooter, both of whom were really excited to come back. He was pleased at how well it was going talking to everyone. He was getting very anxious for everyone to be together again.

He called the Electric Mayhem last. He figured he would be leaving a message, it was later in England and they were probably out at a gig. He was surprised when Janice answered the phone.

“Janice? Did I wake you?” asked Kermit.

“Like, hey Kermit. No, the guys are doing a gig without me, I’ve got a bit of a sore throat so I stayed back tonight,” said Janice.

“Oh, ok,” said Kermit and started to share his news.

“Oh wow, like wait till I tell the guys, they’ll be pumped,” said Janice.

“So you think that they’ll come?” asked Kermit.

“Fer sure. Like, is Piggy coming too? We could all share a flight or something,” said Janice.

“What do you mean? You’ve seen Piggy?” asked Kermit.

“Oh that’s right she was asking about you, I forgot you hadn’t talked to her. Yeah, like she lives here in London working for this snooty fashion designer,” said Janice.

“She does? When did you see her?” asked Kermit.

“A couple of days ago. I gave her the number to our place here, she hasn’t called yet,” said Janice.

Kermit was suddenly aware that his heart was racing and he was having trouble swallowing. Piggy was alive, well and within reach.

“Um, if she does call, can you get her number for me?” asked Kermit.

“Totally! You can’t have a show without your leading lady!” said Janice.

Kermit hung up the phone and just stared into space for awhile. He was so lost in thought he didn’t hear Jenny come in the door.

“Kermit?” she asked causing him to jump in the air.

“Jenny, hi,” said Kermit standing up to give her a hug.

“How’s it going getting in touch with your friends?” she asked.

“Really well, they’re all coming in about a week,” said Kermit.

“Really? That’s great! All of them?” asked Jenny.

“With any luck yes,” said Kermit.

Jenny gave him a puzzled look.

“Janice might be able to get me in touch with Piggy,” said Kermit.

“Oh,” said Jenny.

“Everything is really coming together, I couldn’t have done it without your support,” said Kermit and kissed her cheek.

“It’s my pleasure, I just want you to be happy,” said Jenny.

Kermit sighed. That was all he wanted too.

[The Count]

How do you do it? Write so seemlessly the characters we know and love? And you've even managed to create intrigue with the relationships established through fics of other sources... Mostly your own, but we still love it.

And here I'm stuck still with a blank spot for #19. *Sigh.
Please post more when you can.

[theprawncracker]

Fantastic, Beth! ! ! I'm so excited to see the gang back together! ! Whoo! ! ! More please!

[Muppetfan44]

Any updates? I'm so excited the gang is getting back together. Please post soon! I miss this fic!

:flirt:

[redBoobergurl]

Hopefully coming soon, if this Friday is like last Friday was at work I should have some time this afternoon. Not promising, but hopefully!

[Muppetfan44]

I can't wait till Kermit tries to contact Piggy and the rest of the gang gets back together again. Please post more soon. It would definitely be the thing to brighten up this boring summer day

:excited:

[redBoobergurl]

Soon is all I can say for now. This darn new job is kicking my behind. But I fully intend to not let this story die out. I just need to work a balance out, I promise I'll get there!

[The Count]

You know... Something about this story that fascinates my interest is... How did the characters end up changing from the local their respective postcards were adressed to Kermit from to the places they're living in now. The only true exception is Fozzie and that's why I'm curious about the rest of the gang's current home residences in the story so far.

Know we're here if you need inspiration or help Ish.

[redBoobergurl]

I can answer that question as I don't know if it will be answered in the story or not, I may write it in, I may not. I just figured 15 years is a long time to stay in one place especially when they all took kind of dead end type jobs in the movie. So they migrated. That's the best I can give for now, perhaps it will be better explained later in the story...if I can ever get there! Must...find...time...to...write...

[The Count]

Ah... So that's how they did it. Just like Lisa's log. Well, we're here if you need to bounce ideas off of us, though we're not rully made of flexible rubber, so careful with those sharp wits of yours.

[BeakerSqueedom]

Beth...I am your eternal slave. XP
I love this fic.

You MUST update. XP

[redBoobergurl]

Had a little time today so here's a long awaited new installment!

October 10, 2001 – London, England

Piggy stared at the card in her hand and kept looking from it to the phone. Janice said to call anytime. But this was harder than she thought. She wanted to ask Janice so much more about Kermit. Mainly she wanted to ask how she could contact him directly. She figured she could call Pete’s but she didn’t want to talk to Jenny. Not after what had happened.

Finally she gave in and picked up the phone.

“What’s happening?” came a familiar gravelly sounding voice on the other end.

“Dr. Teeth?” whispered Piggy.

“The one and only. Who do I have the pleasure of conversing with?” said Dr. Teeth.

“Um, it’s Miss Piggy,” said Piggy.

“Far out! Janice said she ran into not too long ago. How are things shaking with you?” said Dr. Teeth.

“Well, I was hoping to talk to Janice a little more, she told me to call anytime,” said Piggy.

“I am wounded! We don’t talk for 15 years and you don’t want to shoot the breeze with me for even a minute?” said Dr. Teeth feigning disappointment.

“Oh, I’m sorry, I, um, it’s just that, um,” stuttered Piggy.

“Relax baby I’m just giving you a hard time. I’ll go get the divine Miss J for you. Nice to hear from you though,” said Dr. Teeth laughing a little.

“Good to talk to you too,” said Piggy sighing with relief.

“Hello?” came Janice’s voice on the line a few seconds later.

“Janice! It’s Piggy. I’m calling since you said I could call,” said Piggy.

“Oh like, fer sure. How’s it going?” said Janice.

“It’s good. Um, so I actually wanted to ask you a question,” said Piggy.

“Go fer it,” said Janice.

“Do you think you could give me Kermit’s contact information?” asked Piggy.

“Oh, uh, sure. You know it’s funny you mention Kermit,” said Janice.

“Why’s that?” asked Piggy.

“Well he called here a few days ago to let us know that he sold the show,” said Janice.

“The show?” asked Piggy. She had almost forgotten what had led them all to New York so many years ago in the first place. After all they’d been through she never even thought about the show anymore.

“Yeah, it’s a good thing you called when you did, we’re leaving for the states in a few days,” said Janice.

“That soon? Wow,” said Piggy. She was starting to think that the damage in their relationship must be too deep if Kermit didn’t try to get in touch with her to have her reprise her role.

“So anyway, what’s your number?” asked Janice.

“My number?” asked Piggy. She was a little taken aback.

“Yeah, little green dude asked me to get it from you,” said Janice.

Piggy almost dropped the phone. Kermit wanted to talk to her! He did want her in the show!

“Oh, sure I can give it to you,” said Piggy. She rattled it off and got a few more details from Janice about the show. She learned that a Broadway producer had stumbled into Pete’s and that thanks to Rizzo; Kermit showed the producer the script.

“So like are you going to call Kermit or wait for him to call you?” asked Janice.

Piggy hesitated for a moment. She knew in her heart what she wanted to do, but she wasn’t sure if she could.

“I don’t know yet. Give him my number though. I’ll hopefully talk to you soon. Thanks so much Janice,” said Piggy.

After she hung up the phone she went over to the computer Nicky bought for her (though she wasn’t sure if he actually bought it or if he obtained it in some other fashion) and attempted to look up flights to New York. They weren’t cheap. She’d have to ask Nicky for some money and well, that wasn’t always an easy task.

She was startled when she heard Nicky turning the key in the lock of the apartment. She tried to shut down the webpage but was having difficulty as it wasn’t easy for a pig to type and use a mouse.

“Sweetheart? Where are you?” asked Nicky.

“In the office darling, I’ll be right there,” said Piggy.

“What are you looking at?” said Nicky. He was faster than she realized.

“Um, just getting a headstart on finding plane tickets to New York in case your sister changes her mind about attending a 9/11 tribute,” said Piggy. She knew it was a stretch since Lady Holiday had told her blatantly that she could not care less about attending some lame event in America just the day before.

“Well it’s a good thing you are. Pack your bags princess, she’s changed her mind. We’re all going to New York for the Fashion District’s tribute to the victims next week. She’ll need you along as assistant and well, I’ll be going because she will not travel without me,” said Nicky.

Piggy couldn’t believe her luck. She wasn’t sure how she’d break away from Lady Holiday’s entourage just yet, but it was enough to know that soon she’d be in the same state as Kermit and her other friends. Soon she’d be able to see them all face to face. Soon she would know if Kermit would be willing to bury the hatchet on their bumpy past.

[theprawncracker]

Ooooooooh! How very exciting! ! ! ! Loved Dr. Teeth! :D *begins humming Together Again* More please! ! ! :excited:

[WhiteRabbit]

Wicked awesome chapter, Beth! =) *shivers with antici...pation for more*

[The Count]

Hi... Twas good to find this update waiting for me to read it. Thankees Beth. *Huggles. More please!

[RedPiggy]

Yay! Piggy's coming!

[Muppetfan44]

Oh Hooray! Loved this update. I hope Piggy runs into Kermit in New York or they call each other soon. Hopefully we'll find out what happened in the past and why Piggy won't talk to Jenny.

OOH more please! This totally made my day; I can't wait for more!

[Muppetfan44]

Updates? Hope you can post more soon!

:)

[redBoobergurl]

October 10, 2001 – New York

Kermit stood in the airport and anxiously paced back and forth. He couldn’t wait to see his best friend. He hadn’t really realized until this moment that he had really missed Fozzie and all of his other friends this much.

Of course, Fozzie’s flight was delayed, air traffic hadn’t quite recovered yet from the day of the attacks and delays were becoming the norm.

Jenny didn’t fight real hard when Kermit told her not to come with him. She understood this was something he needed to do alone, but also there was a bit of a rift growing between them. It wasn’t that they were angry with each other, but almost more of a growing apart. Their lives were changing so rapidly.

Suddenly Kermit felt a paw on his shoulder. He turned around.

“Kermit!” exclaimed Fozzie.

“Fozzie!” exclaimed Kermit and allowed his friend to wrap himself in a big hug. They stood that way for a few minutes, long enough for Kermit to wonder how he let all of his friends get away in the first place.

“You’re still green!” said Fozzie as he pulled away from Kermit.

“What did you think that I’d be chartreuse or something?” asked Kermit.

“No, that is what Gonzo would think. I don’t know, I thought maybe you’d have changed color or something,” said Fozzie.

“I’m not a chameleon,” said Kermit.

“Well anyway, you look great,” said Fozzie.

“Thanks, um, so do you,” said Kermit tripping over the words a little. Fozzie was definitely a wild bear now. His fur was long, shaggy and matted; he appeared to not have had a bath in ages. They’d have to do something about that before the show.

“Yeah, the wilderness agrees with me, don’t it?” asked Fozzie.

“Um, sure,” said Kermit.

“So when’s everyone else coming?” asked Fozzie.

“A couple of more days, I thought you and I could spend some time together and really catch up,” said Kermit.

“I’d like that,” said Fozzie. They started walking to baggage claim.

“Hey Kermit, I just realized something,” said Fozzie.

“What’s that?” asked Kermit.

“It’s Friday!” exclaimed the bear.

Kermit smiled. Fridays with Fozzie. He remembered.

They claimed the luggage and then Kermit hailed a taxi cab to take them to Pete’s.

There was a bit of an uncomfortable silence in the cab.

“So how are Beth and Mollie?” asked Kermit as they drove attempting to break the odd silence.

“They’re good. Mollie can’t wait to come see the big city,” said Fozzie.

“When is your new cub going to be born?” asked Kermit.

“Not until spring. I’m so excited. I never thought I’d ever have kids,” said Fozzie.

“You seem like a great father. I always knew you would be someday,” said Kermit.

“Gosh, that is so nice of you to say,” said Fozzie.

“Well I mean it. You’re a very compassionate guy, I think that translates well into fatherhood,” said Kermit.

“Thanks. You’d be a good father too,” said Fozzie and then realized he shouldn’t have said it.

“Um, yeah,” said Kermit looking away.

“I’m sorry Kermit, I shouldn’t have brought it up,” said Fozzie.

“No, it’s ok, you didn’t do anything wrong. I’m the one that brought up your family,” said Kermit.

The cab slowed down in front of Pete’s and Kermit and Fozzie hopped out.

“Wow, it looks the same,” said Fozzie grateful that they could change the subject.

“We really haven’t made any changes over the years. Why mess with what works?” said Kermit.

They stepped inside.

“Rizzo, I’m back!” yelled Kermit.

“Bout time, half of my siblings called in sick!” yelled Rizzo back.

“Oh great,” said Kermit and sighed.

“It’s ok Kermit, maybe I can help,” said Fozzie.

Kermit looked at the crowd waiting for lunch and back to his somewhat unkempt friend. Well, if Fozzie washed his hands at least maybe he could use him in the kitchen.

“Ok sure, scrub up and go see if you can help Rizzo in the kitchen. Let’s just get through the lunch rush at least. I’m so sorry,” said Kermit.

“It’s all right,” said Fozzie and made his way to the kitchen.

“Hey I remember you, you’re the one who let me cry on their shoulder,” said Rizzo.

“Hey, you’re the rat!” said Fozzie.

“In the flesh. So you ever fry burgers?” asked Rizzo.

Meanwhile Kermit was rushing around taking orders and finally caught up to Jenny.

“Oh Kermit! Is Fozzie here?” asked Jenny.

“Yeah he’s in the kitchen. I didn’t realize we’d be this backed up. He said he’d help though,” said Kermit.

“What a great guy!” said Jenny.

“That’s Fozzie all right,” said Kermit and smiled.

Unfortunately Kermit wasn’t able to keep his promise and they ended up working through dinner right up to close.

Kermit apologized profusely as they walked to his apartment.

“It’s ok Kermit; I know that this is still your job. What are you going to do during the show?” asked Fozzie.

“I don’t know yet, I haven’t talked to Jenny about it. I’d like her to do our costumes, I’d like Rizzo and the other rats to be in the show so that leaves me without anyone to run the restaurant. But we can’t close. I promised Pete I’d keep the place going,” said Kermit.

“Wow,” said Fozzie at a loss as to what they could do.

“I don’t know, I’m hoping once the rest of the gang is here we can figure something out,” said Kermit.

“I’m sure we will,” said Fozzie.

They walked in silence a little longer.

“Um Kermit? I haven’t wanted to ask but have you gotten in touch with Piggy yet?” asked Fozzie.

“Not yet, but I’m going to try. I really want to bring her back here. I know where she is at least,” said Kermit.

“That’s good,” said Fozzie.

He really wanted to ask Kermit the question that had been burning in his head for the last 15 years. After they arrived at Kermit’s apartment and settled on his couch with some cold beverages Fozzie finally got the courage to do it.

“Kermit? What happened with Piggy? I know part of the story, but I don’t know if I know the whole story,” said Fozzie.

Kermit sighed. He knew he couldn’t avoid this forever.

“It’s such a long story Fozzie,” said Kermit.

“I know, but please Kermit, I’m your friend. You’ve shut me and the others out for too long now don’t you think?” asked Fozzie.

Kermit didn’t know when his friend had gotten so smart, but he had to admit he was right. He took a deep breath and finally let out everything that had been bottled up inside of him for years.

[The Count]

No! You can't leave us hanging like that. As much as I love that Kermit and Fozzie were the first to bond in terms of getting the gang together again... There's a sadness there that I'm sure most will pick up on... But the sense of sadness that hits me most is the thought of Kermit and Jenny growing apart. Thank you Ish.
*Strong huggles. :super:

[RedPiggy]

*giggles*

I like imagining "mountain man" Fozzie... lol...

[theprawncracker]

EEEEEEEEEE! That was AWESOME, Beth! I love, love, love this story of yours! Fozzie was in perfect character, and I'm very glad he's getting Kermit to open up. He really, really needs to. Keep it up Beth, more please!

[Muppetfan44]

What a cliffhanger! It's an incredibly well written plot device, but absoluetely tortuous for your readers! haha I can't wait to find out what happened between them; I've been wanting to know since the start of fic.

I really like how we get to see how the characters could have developed without each other, like Fozzie being all shaggy and having a family, and Rowlf and Wanda together. It's really interesting character development and always fun to read!

Please post the next chapter soon or I might fall off of this cliffhanger and land dangerously into the sharp-jagged rocks of suspense below!

:excited:

[redBoobergurl]

Ok, this next installment is long. And deep. And emotionally draining. And I should just shut up and post it. Here goes. Forgive me now if it's too much....just remember, alternative universe. And the story will get happy eventually.

1986 – New York City

Kermit sat in the corner table at Pete’s with a cup of coffee and poured over the script.

“Where is your girlfriend? She no work today?” asked Pete in his usual broken English.

“She wasn’t feeling well, I’m sorry I forgot to tell you,” said Kermit.

“Is all right. I hope she is too,” said Pete.

“I’m sure she will be, probably just rundown,” said Kermit.

“Jenny will cover,” said Pete and turned back to the task of flipping pancakes.

Kermit sighed. He really wanted to sell the show and have his friends back by year’s end. It was almost Christmas and he feared that wasn’t going to happen. He hadn’t seen them all since summer now.

At least Piggy had come back. Well, she had never left. Not long after the gang split up Kermit had discovered that Piggy had been stalking him, she never left New York because she could not bear to be without him.

They ran into each other in Central Park when Piggy was chasing a mugger on roller skates. Kermit had been there with Jenny and Piggy had gotten quite upset. They took a long carriage ride and Kermit managed to make her see that he and Jenny were really just good friends. Piggy was skeptical, but agreed to come and work at Pete’s.

After some time had passed they moved into a tiny apartment together not far from Pete’s. Piggy still wanted to get married, but she understood that it couldn’t happen until they sold the show. She settled for living with Kermit.

They weren’t without their problems; in fact lately it seemed as if they fought more than ever. Kermit was stressed about the show, Piggy still didn’t completely trust Jenny, they worked long days at Pete’s just to pay the bills.

Cards and letters from the gang kept them going and cheered them up. They laughed over Gonzo’s stories of stunt spectaculars gone wrong, rejoiced over Fozzie’s finding love in Beth Bear, cried when Rowlf spoke of feeling lonely, were excited over Scooter’s plans to go to graduate school and smiled at stories from the Electric Mayhem’s various travels.

Times were tough, but they had each other.

Kermit turned back to the script. He still couldn’t figure out what the one thing that was missing that he felt would make a Broadway producer snatch up his show.

Suddenly Piggy came in from the cold.

“I thought you were staying home,” said Kermit.

“I was, but I decided to go to the doctor. Kermie, we need to talk,” said Piggy.

Kermit tucked the script away into his folder. He was worried, Piggy seemed very serious.

“Are you sick?” asked Kermit.

“No…oh boy, there is no easy way to tell vous this,” said Piggy.

“Come on Piggy, you can tell me anything,” said Kermit.

“Ok. Here goes. Um, I’m pregnant,” said Piggy.

Kermit was quiet for a minute.

“Kermie? Are you ok? I need to know how you are feeling,” said Piggy.

“I don’t know. This isn’t really a good time. We have no money, I’m trying to sell the show, we’re not married,” said Kermit but in a calm manner.

“Gee, thanks for the reminder, yes, we are not married, a choice may I remind vous that was yours Kermit the Frog!” exclaimed Piggy.

Kermit took a deep breath, he needed to stay calm and he needed Piggy to be calm.

“I’m sorry Piggy. I just didn’t expect this to happen…now,” said Kermit.

“Well I didn’t expect it either, but it’s too late now,” said Piggy.

Kermit thought for a second. He thought about Robin back at the swamp. He missed his nephew so much; he had sent him back there when the gang first went to college. He always promised he’d bring him to New York when he sold the show. He loved him so much and he was missing out on watching him grow up. Maybe he was meant to have that chance with his own child.

“You know what Piggy? I think it’s great,” said Kermit.

“Really?” said Piggy.

“Yeah. But I think, maybe we should just go to a justice of the peace or something. Our child deserves its parents to be married,” said Kermit.

“Oh Kermie!” Piggy gushed and took Kermit in her arms.

So that weekend they headed to the Justice of the Peace. Pete stood up for Kermit and Jenny stood up for Piggy even though Piggy wasn’t super excited about her doing so. Kermit sent a telegram to all of their friends, but they were all too busy on short notice to come to New York. Piggy and Kermit were disappointed but they figured after they sold the show they’d have a big party and reunite everyone then.

Christmas came and went. Kermit and Piggy spent the holiday with Pete and Jenny and all the rats down at the restaurant. They had the most fun they’d had since their friends had left, possibly because Kermit put down the script for a day and didn’t bring up the show once. In fact, Kermit left it alone for an entire week. Piggy was hopeful that maybe they would just move on and find another way to get their friends back together.

It didn’t last long. On New Years Eve Kermit was rather depressed because he didn’t make his goal of getting his friends back to New York by year’s end.

Piggy wanted to go to Times Square, but Kermit was holed up in their tiny second bedroom, right now an office, but soon to be their baby’s room and was pouring over the script some more.

Finally Piggy gave up and had gone to bed. 1986 became 1987 and Kermit sighed. He turned off the light and went to join his wife in bed.

He found her sitting up, white as a sheet, doubled over and crying.

“Piggy?” asked Kermit running to her side.

“Kermie, I’m….I’m bleeding….and it hurts,” whimpered Piggy.

Kermit rushed her to the hospital but it was too late. They had lost the baby.

The doctor tried to explain that it was probably for the best since they were dealing with the unknown considering they were having a baby that was part frog and part pig.

Piggy healed quickly physically, but emotionally both she and Kermit were deeply wounded.

Kermit threw himself into the show more and more as a way of dealing with his grief. They may not have planned for this child, but it was just another loss for him and instead of turning to Piggy he started pushing her away.

It was not smart, but somehow he just felt he could open up more to Jenny during this time, she didn’t push him the way Piggy did. Piggy wanted to talk about it all the time and she was really pushing Kermit to try for another baby. Jenny on the other hand was happy to sit in silence and listen to whatever Kermit was willing to share. She kept things light and upbeat. Piggy meant well, but Kermit just wanted her to back off.

A few months had passed and it was getting close to spring. Somewhere during this time Kermit received an invitation to Fozzie’s wedding to Beth Bear. He had no idea how he and Piggy would afford to go, and at the moment, it was the furthest thing from his mind.

For awhile, Piggy was unaware that Kermit was turning to Jenny so much. Usually he and Jenny talked when Piggy was on her lunch break, every day she went home for an hour to watch her favorite soap opera. One day, she turned around and came back to Pete’s when she discovered she did not have her key to the apartment. She saw Kermit and Jenny with their heads bent low at one of the tables. Something inside of her snapped.

“And just what is going on here hmm? Are you two engaged in some sort of secret rendezvous when I go watch my show every day?” asked Piggy in a jealous tone.

“Piggy, I would never do that to you, trust me, Kermit is just a good friend,” said Jenny.

“I should’ve known I could never trust vous,” said Piggy starting to get her wild eyes.

“Now wait just a minute here Piggy, am I not allowed to have a friend?” asked Kermit.

“You already have plenty of friends but you made them all go away!” yelled Piggy.

“I MADE them all go away? How did I force everyone to give up on the show and leave huh? Tell me Piggy, who wanted the show on Broadway in the first place? This was NOT my idea; you all talked me into it. I have worked my flippers off for all of them because it’s what THEY wanted and then they are the ones that gave up!” screamed Kermit getting up from his chair.

Jenny had gone behind the counter at this point and was huddled with her father and Rizzo. They didn’t want to watch, but it was like a train wreck, they could not turn away.

“Well, they all thought that they were stressing you out too much so that is why they left!” yelled Piggy.

“Well you know what? It’s not easy being the cheerleader all the time, especially when I never asked for this. I did this for all of you,” said Kermit.

“Well for someone who never asked for it you sure seem to want it. All you care about is the stupid show now. It’s been almost a year and you have not sold it. Maybe it’s time to admit that you’ve failed Kermit,” said Piggy then stepping back a bit when she realized her words were somewhat harsh.

“That’s really low Piggy; you know I feel like I’ve failed everyone but to hear you actually say it? That hurts more than you can possibly know,” said Kermit quietly.

“Kermit, I…” started Piggy.

“Piggy? Maybe we shouldn’t have gotten married. You obviously still can’t trust me, you don’t believe in me, I think this was a mistake,” said Kermit looking away.

“Kermit you can’t possibly mean that can you?” asked Piggy.

“I married you because it was the right thing to do but now I’m not so sure,” said Kermit.

“Kermie? Do you still love moi?” choked Piggy as she started tearing up.

“I don’t know Piggy. I don’t think I know you anymore. I don’t even know myself,” said Kermit sinking in to the chair.

“So what do you want to do?” asked Piggy crying quietly.

Kermit was quiet for a long time.

“I think we should separate. You can’t take back the things you said and they just cut me too deep right now. I can’t be with someone who doesn’t believe in me and especially who does not trust me,” said Kermit.

“Well, I don’t think I can be with you if you are friends with Jenny,” said Piggy surprising herself a little. Did she really want to leave Kermit?

“Piggy, Pete and Jenny have treated us like family, they’ve taken us in when we had no where else to go, and I have told you time and again, Jenny is a friend, nothing more ok?” said Kermit.

“I’m sorry Kermit, I just can’t help how I feel,” said Piggy sadly.

They sat in uncomfortable silence for awhile longer.

“I think I’m going to leave,” said Piggy, she grabbed her key from the hook in back where she had left it and then went out the door.

“Ok,” said Kermit.

When Piggy left Pete’s that was the last Kermit saw of her. He thought she meant she was leaving for the moment and just going back to the apartment. He thought about things for awhile and after he’d cooled down he was ready to go home and try and talk things out with her. He’d said some things he didn’t really mean either. He was hurting so much inside from losing their friends, losing their baby and losing everything they had built up as a couple.

He opened the door to the apartment and was struck by how empty it suddenly seemed. All of Piggy’s stuff was gone. He realized at that moment that she said she was leaving for good when she said she was going to leave.

He waited for her to come back but days turned into weeks, weeks turned into months, she had not contacted him once.

He didn’t know where she was, but he knew one thing, the show had successfully ruined his life. He also knew that unless she ever filed for divorce, he and Piggy were still married. And he didn’t know if he’d ever see his wife ever again.

After some time he contacted his friends to let them know simply that he and Piggy had split up. He made no mention of the show or about the baby.

The only one who knew anything about the baby was Fozzie when he called to ask why Kermit wasn’t at the wedding. Kermit apologized profusely explaining Piggy had left the weekend of the wedding and it just slipped his mind completely. When Fozzie asked why Piggy left Kermit said that they could not work past their grief of losing the baby. Fozzie didn’t believe that was the only reason, but at the time did not press Kermit any further on it.

After Piggy had been gone for a few months Kermit moved out of their apartment. He boxed up all of his stuff for the show and put it away for good. It was over. Piggy was right, he had failed. Not just with the show. But with life in general.

[AnimatedC9000]

GASPS!

So that's why she left! They got into a fight! Oh, I hope the reunion will cheer both of them up...

[RedPiggy]

Jesus, it's been awhile since I've read a story that actually made me tear up. How awful! (the circumstances, not your writing :D)

[The Count]

Oof. This hit like ton of bricks. You stab me little heart. Need... Update... Ish!

[theprawncracker]

Wow! ! ! Beth, that was mucho stabbing, just like Ed said! (Tehe, it rhymed...) Stab--stab--stabbity--stab! Sheesh! VERY good writing, though! Excellent, in fact! You've captured everyone especially well--I really like how you portray Jenny, too. I can't wait to read more of this! So... MORE PLEASE! :D

[redBoobergurl]

Whew...I'm relieved. I'm always worried that I go too far in my fan fics, I like to write the drama (if you can't tell) so I'm glad to see the positive responses!

[Muppetfan44]

That....was.....breathtaking! You wrote that chapter very well and I'm still trying to catch my breath. A baby! I have always pictured that Kermit and Piggy could have a baby but actually reading about it in a story made the concept more real to me. Losing a baby has to be such a terrible loss, I couldn't even imagine it. Oh wow, it is very sad, but so incredibly moving and I hope that Piggy and Kermit can make up and be a great husband and wife to each other. That was very powerful, Kudos to you for writing it; it literally took my breath away!

Please post more soon! I can't stand to see Kermit and Piggy like this :cry:

[The Count]

Yes... The loss of a child to be born is very intense. You should read Melissa (Java)'s take on it in her story about the weirdo and the chicken, The Great Desire.

[WhiteRabbit]

Beth, that was a really great and intense chapter and you write amazingly. You capture the characters' personalities so well and I can see all the action playing out like a movie. I think Segel and Stoller should team up with you and Ryan. 'Nuff said. <3 I can't wait to read more. =)

[redBoobergurl]

Wow! What a nice compliment! Thank you! :)

[WhiteRabbit]

*snugs* Ja welcome. =)

[The Count]

Update... Pleaseish?

[Muppetfan44]

I agree with the Count, please post more soon!
:cry:

[ryhoyarbie]

Excellent story. So deep, so moving, so so.......I can't think of anything else.

[Muppetfan44]

Update?

Pretty Pretty Please with penguins on top?
:zany::cry:

[redBoobergurl]

Is coming, is coming...can't say when, hopefully soon. I have this story running through my head constantly, I just don't have time to sit and work on it. I hope to soon though, that is all I can say! Maybe later today...can't promise it.

[Muppetfan44]

just checking in to see if updates are coming soon!

I definitely miss this story

post soon please!

[Muppetfan44]

walks in after nagging for more updates on Amazon? Moi?

*cricket noises*

Hello?

updates, any updates in here

*cricket noises*

please post soon!


*cricket noises* *swats one off her arm*

Where are frogs when you need them? :o

[The Count]

Hi. Will bootiful bats do? *Some of my darklings devour the crickets which are good luck—for my little 1's—bad luck for the chirpers. *Evil laugh.
Yeah... Updates are pretty scarce around these parts... *Moseys onward.

[redBoobergurl]

Hey now, yes updates are scarse, but I have good excuse. Work holds me hostage. Life holds me hostage. I am trying my darndest to get away! That is all I can say for now. Don't give up on me guys, I refuse to let this story die off.

[The Count]

Then prove it. *Rains penguins on she who used to keep them in tapdancing line.

[Muppetfan44]

*Waves new nagging stick, then uses it to set off a catapult full of chickens and penguins*

Please post more soon; definitely miss this story!

[Muppetfan44]

continuing post picketing to all fics that need updating

*Uses nagging stick to wave a little pink flag that says...

"Please post more soon! :cry:

[Aaron]

more please!

[Muppetfan44]

Okay, so when this moved to the second page of fan-fics, I became concerned.

Please post more soon!

We fans have gone on without updates on this story long enough!
We must stand together and encourage redBoobergurl to post updates, and lots of em.

*turns nagging stick into a sword, a pink sword. Hold nagging sword high!*

POST MORE STORY OR YE WILL WALK THE PLANK! AYE!

hehe, guess i'm still in pirate mode after reading more Muppets of the Caribbean

[redBoobergurl]

Thanks Muppetfan, I feel awful that I have really negleted this story. I know I started out so strong! I am not making promises anymore, but do know I do intend to get to this story at some point. That really doesn't help much does it? Oh well.

[theprawncracker]

(((HUGS))) Beth! We all know you're busy, and we're all (sorta) jealous about your real life... ;) Get to this when ya can and we'll all be here with bells on, eager to read the update! :wisdom: (((HUGS)))

[redBoobergurl]

Don't know how I managed to have time...but here's an update! Sorry it's a shorty, I'm trying to get to point B because things are going to really pick up when I get there, so I had to pick up the pace a bit. In case you don't remember or missed it, in the last installment we go back in time to see just what happened between Kermit and Piggy all those years ago.

October 10-11th, 2001

Fozzie sat and listened very patiently as Kermit let out all of his frustration, anger, sadness and regret of what had transpired 15 years ago.

When Kermit finished he sat back into the chair. He was spent but he felt like a huge weight had been lifted.

“I remember when I called you asking why you weren’t at the wedding,” said Fozzie.

“It killed me that I wasn’t able to be there for you on the most important day of your life. But I was a mess,” said Kermit.

“Kermit, I was never mad at you for that. I wish there was more I could’ve done for you at that time,” said Fozzie.

“There wasn’t much anyone could’ve really done for me,” said Kermit.

“What about Jenny?” asked Fozzie.

“Jenny was my savior at that time, I will admit to that. I love Jenny very much, but I’ve never loved her like I loved Piggy,” said Kermit.

“So are you and Jenny a couple?” asked Fozzie.

“Well, yes and no. I think we’ve stayed together out of fear of being with anyone else. Jenny has been through some tough things as well, so I guess we’re kind of connected by virtue of tragic events,” said Kermit.

“I understand that,” said Fozzie.

“So now I’m trying to convince myself to call Piggy. I have her number, the guys in the band got it from her, apparently she was in London for at least part of this time,” said Kermit.

“Well what are you waiting for?” asked Fozzie.

“I suppose it is daytime there isn’t it?” said Kermit. It was after midnight now in New York.

“Yes it is, no time like the present, come on Kermit, give her a call,” said Fozzie.

Kermit knew that the time would never be better and now he had his best friend to support him.

“Ok, I’ll do it,” said Kermit and grabbed the phone. It rang and rang.

“Hello,you have reached Miss Piggy and Nicky Holiday. We are unable to take your call; we are traveling with Lady Holiday to the United States for a 9-11 benefit in New York City. We will return your call when we return to England,” came a man’s voice Kermit had never heard before. He hung up the phone.

“What happened?” asked Fozzie.

“She wasn’t there,” said Kermit.

“I’m sorry Kermit,” said Fozzie.

“Well, all is not lost. In fact, all may be looking up. She’s on her way here,” said Kermit.

“How is that possible?” asked Fozzie.

“Apparently she works for Lady Holiday in England and Lady Holiday is traveling here for some benefit,” said Kermit.

“Wow! She’ll be within reach!” said Fozzie.

“I know this is great!” said Kermit. Now all he’d have to do is figure out what benefit and where. But that could wait until morning. He was also curious about this Nicky fellow. But again, he couldn't worry about that now. All that mattered is that hopefully he'd be able to see her soon.

“Hey Fozzie?” said Kermit as they finally headed to bed.

“Yeah?” asked Fozzie.

“Thanks for tonight,” said Kermit.

Fozzie gave his friend another hug.

"That's what friends are for," said Fozzie.

Kermit vowed to never forget that phrase ever again.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

The next morning Kermit and Fozzie took a cab to the airport. Rowlf and Wanda were due to fly in on a morning flight. Scooter would be coming in the afternoon.

“So Rowlf married a cat! That’s so crazy, I thought he was allergic to cats,” said Fozzie.

“Hey that’s nothing, I thought he hated them,” said Kermit laughing.

“Guess he takes a lot of allergy medicine,” said Fozzie.

“True love knows no bounds or something,” said Kermit. He definitely wasn’t judging his friend; after all, he had never really dated within his own species either.

“Hey, I think I see him!” said Fozzie excitedly.

“Kermit! Fozzie!” yelled Rowlf and came running over as best he could through the crowded airport, his beautiful calico wife in tow.

The four of them met up and Rowlf dropped his bags and gave first Kermit an almost choking hug and a pat on the back and then moved on to Fozzie.

“Rowlf. Gosh, I’ve missed you so much,” said Kermit.

“Me too,” said Fozzie.

“You have no idea how much I’m missed you guys. But forgive me for being rude, this here, is my lovely wife Wanda,” said Rowlf gesturing to the feline.

“It’s so nice to finally meet you,” said Wanda shaking Kermit’s hand and giving him a peck on the cheek and doing the same for Fozzie.

“Same here. I understand you have quite a voice,” said Kermit.

“Oh, I’ve done a little singing here and there,” laughed Wanda.

“Where’s your Mrs?” asked Rowlf to Fozzie.

“At home with our daughter. It was too expensive for us all to fly right now. She’ll be coming later though,” said Fozzie.

“That’s right, you are a father. Out of all of us, I never quite imagined you’d be the one to settle into family life, but I think it suits you,” said Rowlf.

“Yeah, it’s great. How about you guys? Any plans for children?” asked Fozzie.

“I don’t think so, we’re pretty content to be just us,” said Rowlf.

“Besides that, who knows how risky it could be cross breeding and what not,” said Wanda.

Fozzie nervously looked over at Kermit to see if the conversation was making him uncomfortable, but the frog looked relatively relaxed, even smiling.

“Well, should we head on out of here?” asked Rowlf.

“Yeah, we have to come back in a few hours anyway to get Scooter, so let’s go get some lunch in the meantime,” said Kermit.

He was feeling a sense of calm coming over him that he hadn’t felt in years. He didn’t know if it was his talk with Fozzie that had helped, or the fact that he knew he was within grasp of Piggy, but he felt great.

Later in the day he returned to get Scooter from the airport. They also had a nice reunion. The next day he’d repeat the process one more time with Gonzo and Camilla and then the Electric Mayhem. Everything was coming together.

Now he had to figure out just how he could get to Piggy. And with almost the whole gang back together, he was sure they could figure out something.

[Muppetfan44]

Hooray!

I loved it! Fantastic Job! I can feel the excitement growing...

Please post more when you can!

[theprawncracker]

WOOT! Awesome stuff Beth! Loved seeing Rowlf and Wanda! So glad everything's coming back together! Hope we find Piggy soon! MORE PLEASE! (When you can! :) )

[The Count]

*Glomp to Beth. You deserve a good long review... Not sure who would be brave enough toventure it... But thank you for the update.

Oh, and my inspiration's back, will PM you if you feel up to batting around a few ideas.
*Glomp again.

[Aaron]

now that's quality

[redBoobergurl]

Aww, thanks Aaron, I'm glad you like it. :)

[Aaron]

you got me to post that isn't easy to do :)

[Muppetfan44]

Just bringing this fic to the top of the list!

Please post more soon; definitely missing this one!:)

[Muppetfan44]

Friendly labor day reminder...

For the people who do have to still go to work on labor day, here is a heart-fle plea..

Reading updates on amazing stories like these would so brighten up our day!

So for all the people who still have to put their noses to the grindstone on this holiday...please post soon!


Hope all is well!
:)

[redBoobergurl]

I'm not working today...but I don't think I can squeeze out an update today either, gots stuff to do around the house. BUT I really hope to work on this story this week, I have another idea for a new fic in the back of my head, but I can't get to it until I finish this one!

[Muppetfan44]

I have another idea for a new fic in the back of my head, but I can't get to it until I finish this one!

Hey, any motivation is good motivation. Thanks for the heads up; can't wait for the rest of this story and for the new fic to come!

:)

[Muppetfan44]

Just bringing this to the top of the list again!

Please post more soon, definitely wanting to know what happens next!:)

[redBoobergurl]

Oy...this story...oh how I want to be writing it.....

Sadly I'm going out of town this weekend and all the fun stuff that goes along with leaving work for a couple of days is leaving me quite busy.

I will get back to this someday though! I hope! :o

[Muppetfan44]

Hoping that someday when you get back to this is today!

Please post more soon! I am in total need of good frog/pig fan fiction!:)

[mbmfrog]

I must say that this story so far really spoke to me as it showed one of my all time Favorite Muppet Movies, but in a different POV. :)

I would love to encourage you to keep up the good work upon this great tale of yours.

[redBoobergurl]

Thanks mbmfrog! I think this is still one of my favorite unfinished stories of mine, and I really do hope to write in it again someday! If only life would slow down just a wee bit for me! You just never know though, it just might happen. :)

[redBoobergurl]

Ok, I don't know what happened last night, I really don't, but maybe it was just seeing this story again, but all of sudden, I had inspiration and I know how the entire rest of this story is going to go. And it was quiet at work this afternoon....SO...that means one thing....

HERE'S AN UPDATE!

October 11th, 2001

As Piggy stepped out of the limo when they arrived at the hotel in New York she looked all around her and suddenly felt like it was 15 years ago. Her hotel was right near Saks Fifth Avenue. She remembered when she had gotten a job there right after the gang had separated. Of course it was short lived and she ended up making spying on Kermit her full time job until he found her in Central Park.

“Miss Piggy, I need you to grab my bags,” demanded Lady Holiday snapping Piggy back to reality.

“Right away,” said Miss Piggy.

“Oh no need for that ma’am, we’ve got plenty of bellhops,” said the hotel manager that came out to greet them.

“Very well, Piggy, take an hour for yourself and then report back to my room. Understood?” said Lady Holiday.

“Yes Lady Holiday,” said Piggy obediently.

With the freedom to do whatever she pleased, Piggy contemplated just what she should do. She was overwhelmed with desire to try and go and find Kermit. Almost to a point that was alarming to her.

“Hey babe, I hear you’ve got an hour free, I know some things we could do with an hour,” came Nicky’s voice behind her.

“Oh um, well dear, I was thinking about going over there to Saks and I know how you hate shopping with me,” said Piggy.

“Really? I was hoping you’d come upstairs,” said Nicky.

“Darling, I need to find just the right dress for the event, you know your sister will be upset if I don’t look just perfect,” said Piggy. She often used Lady Holiday as a weapon in their relationship.

“I suppose you are right, well, have fun and I’ll be waiting up in our room for whenever you can get back to me,” said Nicky.

“Oh great,” said Piggy sarcastically under her breath. But, at least she was free.

She didn’t even think twice and hailed a cab.

“Where to lady?” asked the cab driver.

“Um, how far is it to Pete’s Delicatessen?” asked Piggy.

“Eh, about 15 blocks. Is that where you want to go?” asked the cab driver.

15 blocks. She could be there very quickly. Would he want to see her? Suddenly she just didn’t care about the past. She wanted to see him.

“Miss? Is that where you wanted to go?” asked the cab driver again pulling her away from her thoughts.

Piggy took a deep breath. “Yes. And hurry please!” she burst out joyfully. She was overcome with a feeling she hadn’t felt in a very long time.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Meanwhile back at Pete’s the whole gang was hugging and rejoicing in being together again.

“I would like to propose a toast to the man who made this all possible, our fearless leader, Kermit the Frog!” said Dr. Teeth.

“Here here!” shouted Rowlf.

“Now hang on all of you, I’m so happy you’re all here, but we have got a lot of work to do. There is still something missing from the script and we have rehearsals to start and the show opens in just over a month,” said Kermit.

“We can do it!” said Fozzie.

“Jenny has graciously agreed to make our costumes. Dr. Teeth is taking over music direction with the band. Um, Rowlf and Wanda have agreed to be the leads,” said Kermit.

The room went silent. No one wanted to ask the question.

“Kermit, I thought you said that we’d try and figure out what benefit Miss Piggy is in town for, remember what her voicemail said? She’s here in the city?” said Fozzie being brave enough to say the words everyone else was wondering.

“Like the diva pig is here? Wonder if she was on our plane!” said Janice.

“Why wouldn’t she play the lead? No offense Wanda,” said Gonzo.

“It’s ok,” said Wanda.

“Look everyone, there’s a long story about Piggy and me, and I did want to try and get her back here for the show, but you know what, I realized this morning, we have so much work to do on this show, I can’t be running all over New York looking for her. Do you know how many 9/11 tributes and fundraisers are going on? So, we’re moving on,” said Kermit a little harshly.

Again it was quiet in the room.

“Sure boss, whatever you want. Rowlf and Wanda will be great. Right guys?” said Scooter finally breaking the silence.

Everyone started shaking their heads in agreement.

“Thanks everyone. Now, the other thing is, I still have this restaurant to run. I, um, made a promise to Pete that I would never shut the place down,” said Kermit with a hint of emotion. Everyone understood, they knew how imporant Pete was to Kermit.

“I’ll be here most of the time, but I have to work on the costumes too,” said Jenny.

“So anyway, my hope is that we can all pitch in when we’re not rehearsing. Is that ok with everyone?” asked Kermit.

Again everyone nodded their heads in agreement.

“I really am happy to see all of you. I missed you a lot,” said Kermit relaxing now that the business was out of the way.

“Well we missed you too! Way to never give up on the dream!” said Rowlf patting Kermit on the back.

Once again everyone broke out into cheers, hugs and jubilant celebration.

Across the street Piggy looked climbed out of the cab and looked back at Pete’s. It hadn’t changed.

The cab pulled away after she paid and she realized she was stuck there now. Was she really ready to do this?

As she got a little closer she saw others that she recognized. The whole gang was there?

She finally made it to the door. Inside things were zany and crazy, the way it always was with the whole group. She could hear some of them singing the familiar words of “Together Again.”

At first no one even noticed her standing there watching the whole thing. Then all of sudden, Animal saw her.

“PIG!” he yelled.

Everyone whipped around to face her. She stood before them, beautiful as ever and possibly thinner than the last time they’d seen her. Otherwise you wouldn’t know that 15 years had passed.

“Piggy?” said Gonzo.

“Is that really you?” asked Fozzie.

“What is everyone doing here?” she finally choked out.

“We’re celebrating with a little reunion. Kermit finally sold the show,” said Scooter.

“Oh really? Um wow, that’s great,” said Piggy.

Kermit was shaking behind the counter. But he realized it was now or never. He came out from behind.

“It just happened. I tried to call you; I got your number from Janice. But you had already left to come here. And here you are now,” said Kermit.

“Here I am,” said Piggy.

They stood and stared at one another, not sure if they were happy, sad, angry, excited.

“Well um, I think I’m going to get some air, Animal, you want to go for a walk?” said Floyd breaking the awkward silence.

“WALK!” said Animal.

“Hey Fozzie, weren’t you going to show me pictures of your little girl” said Scooter.

“Oh yeah, let’s go back to Kermit’s place,” said Fozzie.

“Come on Camilla, let’s go to Central Park and see if we stand in the fountain if people will throw coins at us,” said Gonzo.

Pretty soon every last one of them had come up with an excuse to leave Kermit and Piggy alone except for Jenny and Rizzo.

“Rizzo, let’s go reorganize the fridge,” said Jenny pushing Rizzo toward the kitchen.

“But its cold back there,” complained Rizzo.

“Just do it,” hissed Jenny as they hurried out of the dining room. There weren’t even any customers left.

Yet Piggy and Kermit continued to stare at one another.

“I just can’t believe it’s you,” Kermit finally said after an agonizingly long silence.

“I am sure you have questions. I don’t even know where to begin,” said Piggy.

“I do but that doesn’t matter right now. I need to do something else I always said I’d do if you walked back into my life,” said Kermit.

“What’s that?” asked Piggy. The next thing she knew Kermit swept her up into a passionate kiss.

[The Count]

*Glompage to der Bethykins. *Loving der update. Ooh ya, you betcha. :hungry: :insatiable:
Yaey for getting your inspiration back. Hope for more soonish. *Leaves cookies.

[mbmfrog]

Wow what an update. :concern:

I mean it great to see the gang back together again after so long. Still, it smart of them to avoid the relationship between the Frog and the Pig. However I did enjoy the friendship between Fozzie and Kermit, I mean there's a strong bond between a frog and a bear.

Still, what a cliffhanger towards this chapter and who knows what will happen next when Piggy's new life colides with her old one.

Please I would love for you to keep up the good work upon this great story as it combines my two favorite Muppet movies. :)

[Muppetfan44]

HOOORAY!

This totally made my day! I'm so glad you posted an update and the romance between frog and pig was especially adorable!

Loved every minute of it. Can't wait for more!


:)

[Muppetfan44]

Please post more of this story soon! Dying to know what happens! It would a perfect study break for me! :)

[The Count]

*Poke poke nag nag, update please?

[redBoobergurl]

*shifty eyes*

I do have half of the next installment written. So, it's coming soon, I can tell you that!

[TogetherAgain]

<pokes head in>

Contrary to what my lack of replies implies, I have been keeping up with this tale... or... had been, until that last chapter, which I didn't see until today.

I had this idea that at the end of the story, I would surprise you with a big long detailed review of the entire thing.

And then I remembered that, gee, I'm not the only one on MC with unfinished stories...

And besides, I'm much too ushy gushy not to squeal over the last line of that last chapter. Therefore: <ahem> WHEEEEEEEEEEEEEE! SMOOCHIES! <happy wiggle boogie> Moi was NOT expecting that... but SO pleased to see it!

And then what happens? Then what? Then what? I don't know! You haven't posted. But you say you have half the next chapter ready, so YAY! I only have to poke the other half! <poke poke poke> <ahem> I try to behave now.

More please? I'm all excited now! What happens next what happens next what happens NEXT?

...So much for me behaving now. :p :halo:

More please?

[redBoobergurl]

Hello children! Here is another installment! Yay! It's going to start getting intense...wait, well not quite yet. Soon. But we're getting ahead of ourselves.

P.S. Lisa - so happy that TogetherAgain is reading my story called Together Again! :) Tee hee.

October 11th, 2001 Continued

Kermit and Piggy pulled apart almost as quickly as they had embraced.

“I’m sorry, I don’t know what came over me,” said Kermit suddenly feeling a little sheepish.

“Don’t be sorry. That felt nice,” said Piggy.

“So…” said Kermit.

“Yeah…” said Piggy.

“Do you want to sit down?” asked Kermit.

Piggy knew her one hour was starting to tick away, but she didn’t care.

“Yes, that would be nice,” said Piggy.

They sat down opposite one another in a booth.

“So this is crazy. You must be married again by now. Or have a boyfriend,” said Kermit.

“Well…I am not married. But I do have a boyfriend,” said Piggy.

“I can’t see how you wouldn’t, you’re still just as beautiful as you always were,” said Kermit wistfully.

“Thanks. Um, I’m not that happy with him though,” said Piggy blushing a little.

“I’m so sorry to hear that,” said Kermit reaching over to take her hand.

That was all it took and suddenly Piggy was pouring her heart out. She told Kermit everything she had done over the last 15 years, her travels around the globe, her relationship with Pierre and then how she came to London and met Lady Holiday and Nicky.

She told him about running into Janice just a couple of weeks ago and finally how she came to be in New York.

“Well, I’m glad that you’re here. Since you’ve been really honest with me, I think I have to be honest with you as well,” said Kermit.

He told Piggy that he did date Jenny off and on for the last few years, told her about Pete’s passing away and his inheriting the diner, the emotions he felt on 9/11 and how Ronnie came to the diner.

Piggy cried a little as he talked. She really wasn’t angry that Kermit turned to Jenny after she left. She knew now that she had more or less driven him into her arms. Mostly she shed tears for Kermit’s heartache over the last 15 years.

When he was finished Kermit handed her a tissue.

“Thanks,” she sniffled as she dotted her eyes a bit.

“Piggy, none of this is your fault. You know that don’t you?” asked Kermit.

“Well, I should’ve tried to work it out with you all those years ago. Instead I ran. I was afraid of what was happening and I ran. And I was grieving the loss of what could’ve been our child,” said Piggy.

“I know, I was grieving too. I think that is why I behaved the way that I did. I didn’t know how to deal with it. I would’ve loved nothing more than to have had a child with you,” said Kermit.

“I know,” said Piggy quietly.

“Can you believe Fozzie is a father?” asked Kermit lightening the mood.

“You’re kidding, really?” said Piggy in surprise.

They then spent some more minutes talking about their friends and where they’d all been over the years.

They talked so long that they didn’t even notice the restaurant starting to fill up again for the dinner rush. And Piggy most definitely didn’t notice that her one hour of freedom had been done and over with hours ago. Her cell phone was ringing – but she’d stuck it on vibrate and didn’t hear it as it was tucked away in her purse.

Slowly their friends began to trickle back in but had the good sense to leave the two of them alone.

“So, now what?” asked Kermit.

“That’s a good question, I guess I really don’t know,” said Piggy.

“Piggy, I want you in the show, it wouldn’t be right without you, I wrote that part for you. It’s yours if you want it,” said Kermit.

“I do want it. I really do. But I have this job,” said Piggy.

“Do you really like your job though? Look, I’m not proposing we pick up where we left off or anything. I mean, so much time has passed. But, I just, I need you in the show Piggy. It wouldn’t feel right without you,” said Kermit again.

Piggy felt torn, but she hated her life as it was, so she knew what she had to do.

“Kermit, I will be in the show. But I need to go tie up my loose ends,” said Piggy.

“Of course. Do you want me to come with you?” asked Kermit.

“No, that’s ok, I am probably going to be fired anyway, I was supposed to be back there four hours ago,” said Piggy looking at her watch and realizing how much time had gone by.

“Ok, well, call if you need anything, um, do you need a place to stay?” asked Kermit.

“Oh I suppose I will. I didn’t think about that. I have things back in London too, but I’ll have to worry about that later,” said Piggy.

She stood up and started to head for the door.

“I’m really glad you’re here Piggy,” said Kermit even though he’d already said so several times over.

“Moi too, very much,” said Piggy lingering in the doorway.

“Hurry back?” asked Kermit.

“I’ll be back tomorrow morning, I promise,” said Piggy and finally crept out the door.

Kermit stood for a moment watching as she walked away and hailed a cab.

Fozzie came up behind him.

“So, she’s going to be in the show?” asked Fozzie.

“She’s going to be in the show,” said Kermit.

“And hopefully my life as well,” he thought but did not say out loud. He could only hope that they could bridge the gap time had left between them.

[The Count]

*Glomps Bethykins. Thank you for the update.
*Leaves cookies on the counter.

[Muppetfan44]

Thank you so much for this update!

It totally made my day! I have one crappy day at the office and was so happy when I saw the update in my inbox!

Piggy going to be in the show! The emotions between the two, everything was great! I can't wait to read what happens next. How Nicky is going to respond to Piggy leaving, what Lady Holiday will say; if Kermit and Piggy fall in love all over again... I LOVE IT!

Please post more updates soon, I'm sure i'll have many crappy days ahead!

Keep up the great work; hopefully i'll be able to start writing again soon

Best Wishes!

I'm so happy Piggy's back!:):)

[mbmfrog]

Now that was a great update, it nice to see both Piggy and Kermit talk out their feelings and problems, as they are well on their way to patch things up. I mean it seems like there's nothing that can stop the gang from being reuinted and putting on their show. :)

I would love to encourage you to keep up the good work upon this great story of yours as I await the next update.

[theprawncracker]

VERY nice, Beth! I love it! The conversation was wonderful and very Kermit and Piggy. I loved the awkwardness they had after having been gone for so long but very obviously still being in love... Can't wait to see where this goes! More please! :D

[The Count]

Mmmm... Don't know if this'll work as well as it does with Squeekums, but...

*Hangs muffin above Beth. Update please?

[Muppetfan44]

*Places leftover birthday cake and a tall glass of milk for beth*

I agree, please post an update soon! :)

[The Count]

Heh... Ari, have you gone through Toga's HOTSAM yet? *Warning: You'll need a teddy bear just for your teddy bear.

[theprawncracker]

Heh... Ari, have you gone through Toga's HOTSAM yet? *Warning: You'll need a teddy bear just for your teddy bear.
*ahem* Also... I've heard Prawnie's Mid-Age Crisis is getting really good too... *shifty eyes* :shifty:

*end shameless plug* :halo:

[The Count]

Well... If you posted an update to that... :rolleyes: Do we need to lock you inyour room again?

[theprawncracker]

Well... If you posted an update to that... :rolleyes: Do we need to lock you inyour room again?
Well... I'm waiting to update to make sure everyone gets a chance to read... ;)

And no... please. :insatiable:

[redBoobergurl]

Muffins, muffins, I love when my stories get muffined. :)

I'm teasing. I will have more of this coming soon, I do know that.

In the meantime, enjoy some muffins here and a tall glass of milk.

[Muppetfan44]

Haha!

I have been reading Half of the Stairs are Missing and Mid-Age Crisis and I love them both and would love updates on those fics very soon! Would also love updates on Heart of Gold and no, I'll never stop asking, hehe:D

I've just figured out that July 1st will be the debut of the Calendar Girl Series so keep your eyest peeled. Have a good day everyone and please post updates on all your wonderful stories soon!

[redBoobergurl]

OK....Ok...um...ok...I'm nervous about this chapter. I didn't have anyone read it first so um, yeah...just know it's going to get a little darker again. I just have to put that disclaimer out there. But we're really hitting the so called "low point" of this story if that helps. Ok, I don't want to say anymore, if this offends anyone or anything, please forgive me.

October 11th, 2001 – Evening

“Turn it up; I don’t want to miss it!”

“What are we watching again?”

“The Concert for New York on VH1, remember?”

“Oh that’s right; it’s so great the Electric Mayhem is getting to perform there!”

“They’re performing there? I thought that they were going there protest the unfair treatment of pickled pigs feet.”

“Gonzo, you never change!”

Kermit smiled at his friends gathered in his apartment. Back in the old days this constant bantering used to drive him nuts, but now he was thankful for it. He gathered everyone together to watch the live performance of the benefit concert so they could see their friends perform.

“Hey Kermit, is Dr. Teeth going to put in a plug for the show?” asked Fozzie.

“No, I told them, this benefit is about the victims from the attacks, we’ll have plenty of publicity without it,” said Kermit.

“Especially now that Piggy’s back in,” said Rowlf smiling at his friend. Kermit had filled in everyone when they had arrived back at the restaurant that he and Piggy had somewhat reconciled a few hours ago.

“How does it feel to have finally talked with her Boss?” asked Scooter.

“I feel good, I feel like a weight’s been lifted off my shoulders,” said Kermit.

“Hey look, I think the Electric Mayhem is starting,” said Wanda pointing at the television.

“Hello New York! We’ve been residing across the pond for awhile now, but we’re still Americans and we’re darn proud of that fact!” said Floyd which garnered large cheers from the audience. Then the band started playing “God Bless the USA.”

Kermit relaxed back in his chair and smiled. He really was feeling good.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Piggy sheepishly approached the hotel when the taxi dropped her off. She knew she was in trouble.

Lady Holiday and her entourage were just coming down the stairs to their waiting limo as Piggy went to step inside the hotel.

“Piggy! Where on earth have you been? I said ONE hour, not FOUR,” said Lady Holiday.

“I’m very sorry Lady Holiday, I ran into an old friend of mine and time got away from me,” said Piggy fibbing just a little.

“Well, you were no help to me when I needed you today and will be no help to me this evening, so go wait in your hotel room and I’ll decide what to do with you later,” threatened Lady Holiday.

Piggy was a little shocked she did not get fired on the spot, but now figured she would have all evening to write her letter of resignation. She would hand it to Lady Holiday in the morning and then go to Kermit.

She found her room and unlocked the door.

“Well there’s the princess. Where’ve you been?” slurred Nicky. Piggy dropped her purse. She didn’t realize Nicky was not with his sister.

“I told you I was going shopping remember?” said Piggy.

“Well you’ve been gone just way too long,” said Nicky stumbling out of the chair. It was obvious he had been drinking.

“Time got away from me, I’m very sorry. Now let’s get you some coffee and we can talk,” said Piggy, she had dealt with him in this state before.

“Oh we’re gonna talk,” said Nicky slamming his glass on the table.

Piggy was getting scared. Nicky was not pleasant when he drank, but she had never really seen him like this.

“Um, what do we need to talk about?” asked Piggy a little confused.

“I saw you with that green frog. I saw you kiss him. How could you do that to me?” asked Nicky stepping closer to Piggy.

“How did you see that? Did you follow me?” asked Piggy. There was no use denying what was true and she should have known Nicky wouldn't trust her.

“Yes I did, I knew you weren’t going shopping. You were acting so strange, I took the next cab after you. Now I know the truth, you were sneaking off to cheat on me,” said Nicky almost in Piggy’s face.

Piggy stepped around Nicky and ran further into the room.

“Now Nicky, I told you about my past relationship with Kermit, I had to see him, I had to see that he was ok after 9/11,” said Piggy.

“You told me you didn’t love him anymore, why did you kiss him?” asked Nicky.

“It’s really complex Nicky; I don’t think I could explain it all. But I know how I feel now. I had to learn the difference between wrong and right. You’re wrong. He’s right,” sighed Piggy.

“I can’t believe you would do this to me,” said Nicky as his shoulders started to droop.

“I’m sorry Nicky. You were there for me during some very difficult years and I’ll never forget that. But I have to move on,” said Piggy.

“Fine, I understand,” said Nicky looking at the floor.

“Great, I’ll go find a hotel room somewhere else for tonight,” said Piggy walking past him to the door and grabbing her purse. Suddenly she felt Nicky grab her from behind.

“I understand, but you’re not going anywhere. If I can’t have you, no one will,” fumed Nicky.

Before Piggy knew what was happening Nicky was throwing her to the ground, beating her with his fists. She tried to scream but no sound would come out. She sat up to try and defend herself, once upon a time she was strong enough to do so, but her many years of depression and despair left her weakened and no longer able to physically fight.

The thought even crossed her mind as things started happening in slow motion, that a good karate chop would take care of him no problem, but she couldn’t lift herself up to do it.

Then she was thrown hard against the wall and kicked several times. Then she suddenly had no more thoughts. Her mind felt blank.

“You’re just a useless piece of garbage, I do not know why I wasted so many years with you,” said Nicky as he left the room. It was the last thing she heard before the room went dark.

[mbmfrog]

Well I'll be I didn't expected the story to take a turn, THAT dark.

I mean couldn't Piggy have used her Karate in a time like this ? :mad:

Still it was a great update and nice showing how quickly the gang is regaining their friendships.

Please do keep up this great and magnificent story telling idea of yours. :)

[The Count]

*Hugs Bethykins tightly. Keeeeeeeeeeeermiiiiiiit! ! !
Oh, the drama. You should know we're used to you putting your roomies in tough spots like these... So it's great to get an emotional update like this. Please... Post more?
*Leaves cookies. 8D

[TogetherAgain]

<STARES>

<Jaw drops>

...<distributes teddy bears> <pats Beth's shoulder> I... I know how you feel. I have posted some chapters that made me beat my chest. It's rough, ain't it?

Wow. Um... wow.

Well, first of all, let me say that I LOVE the line you lifted from GMC. Excellent!

Also, I'm pleased that Lady Holiday didn't fire Piggy immediately. It wouldn't have surprised me if she had, but, slight though it may be, I feel like after so many years, Lady Holiday probably cares about Piggy, too... thus less prone to firing. It's not an automatic thing; it's something she has to decide about.

OH! And! I love that Kermit is now grateful for the banter that used to drive him nuts. That's... so Kermity.

...And now... I'm going to sit here, and hug Piggy protectively, and fret, and beg for more story.

...Yes, I want more... I'm an emotional masochist. And, I have lots of teddy bears.

<ahem> MORE PLEASE! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !

[Muppetfan44]

Oh my! Poor Piggy

definitely disapointed she couldn't karate chop that **** Nicky into next week! but understandable after all of those years of turmoil.

Now's the time for Kermit to come to her rescue and punch the daylights out of Nicky--or get Animal to, haha!

Amazing update; can't wait for more, so post more soon please! :)

[redBoobergurl]

*Sighs of relief* Thanks guys, like I said, we have hit the low, it'll get better from here. Phew. :)

[WhiteRabbit]

OMG, Beth! I felt extremely bad for Piggy and it's very difficult to make me do that most of the time. X3 I love the way you write, it really draws in the reader and makes them connect with the story and the emotion throughout. Can't wait for more! =3

[theprawncracker]

*WIDE EYES* I... I anticipated something was coming (NO, not just because Lisa warned me to grab a teddy... ;)), the writing up to the... low was very astute and I could tell something was coming. Brilliant work, Beth.

I REEEEEEEEEEALLY love the line Piggy stole from GMC. PERFECT timing. I loved Gonzo's line at the beginning too!

But... that finish... WOW. You handled it and wrote it extremely well, Beth. And... now I understand why you sought the humor of Mid-Age. :p

Yet another terrific chapter, Beth! I really can't wait to see where it goes from here! So, with that...

MORE PLEASE! ! !

[redBoobergurl]

Late evening October 11th/Morning October 12th

“This is the room right?”

“Dios mio, didn’t jou read the message? Room 222, prime rib hokay?”

Two hotel workers stood outside of the room where Piggy lay unconscious.

“I’m sorry Pepe, I’m just nervous cause we’re so late,” said one of the workers, a bluish colored elephant.

“Seymour, relax, jou know this is not our fault hokay? The kitchen screwed up. Now knock on the door!” bellowed the other worker, a smaller figure of the crustacean persuasion.

“I just want to get off of being a bell hop, room service gives better tips and this is our only chance to prove ourselves,” said Seymour as he knocked on the door.

No answer came of course.

“Dios mio, we are not that late, why would they leave,” sighed Pepe.

“I don’t know, should we go in? Maybe they’re just too busy to answer the door,” said Seymour.

“It’s so quiet though, I don’t know,” said Pepe.

“Come on, let’s just try it,” said Seymour.

“Oh hokay, hokay, it’s your fault if we get in trouble,” said Pepe and got out the master key.

They pushed the cart into the room and gasped as they saw Piggy in a crumpled up heap on the floor by the bed.

“Holy tamales, dis sexy lady is hurt!” said Pepe.

“Miss? Can you hear us? Hello?” said Seymour bending down to Piggy on the floor. “She is breathing I think,” he said looking back at Pepe.

“Well what are jou waiting for, call 911!” shouted the prawn, obviously nervous about the situation.

“I hope we’re not too late,” said Seymour picking up the phone.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

The next morning the entire gang gathered at Pete’s once again. Ronnie was coming to start discussing rehearsals and details and then would lead them over to the theatre so they could see where they’d be spending a great deal of time very soon.

Kermit got breakfast out for everyone and then decided he needed to stop putting off the inevitable. If Piggy was back in his life, no matter what it meant, he knew it was time to finally end things with Jenny. He wanted to be honest with her and hoped she’d still want to be friends.

Since he knew Piggy was coming in this morning, he also knew his time was limited, so he stood up from his table where he was having coffee with Rowlf and Fozzie and went to find Jenny in the kitchen.

“Jenny?” asked Kermit delicately.

“Yes Kermit” said Jenny.

“We need to talk. Want to go for a walk?” asked Kermit.

“That sounds nice, let’s go,” said Jenny then called to Rizzo to watch the front.

They walked in silence for a bit as the busy city hustled around them.

“Look Kermit, I know this is about Piggy,” said Jenny after a few minutes.

“You do?” said Kermit.

“I had to figure this was coming after she came in yesterday. Kermit, I know you have a past, a history with her. It’s ok,” said Jenny.

“I don’t know what’s going to happen yet,” said Kermit.

“Is she going to do the show?” asked Jenny.

“Yes, she’s supposed to be meeting us this morning,” said Kermit.

“Well, then it sounds to me like you’ll be spending some time together so maybe you can figure out your feelings,” said Jenny.

“You aren’t going to be mad at me? The last thing I’d ever want to do is hurt you. I want us to still be friends…you mean so much to me,” said Kermit stopping and facing Jenny.

Jenny took Kermit’s hand.

“I will never be mad at you or stop being your friend. You mean a lot to me too. You were there for me during some really tough times,” she said as her voice broke a bit.

“The same goes for me,” said Kermit also choking up a bit. Jenny knelt to his level and they embraced and stood together for a long time.

Jenny pulled back a little and wiped tears out of her and Kermit’s eyes.

“Your happiness means so much to me and you have to admit, we’re really better friends than anything else,” said Jenny.

“I hate to admit that you’re right. I think I wanted to do right by your dad and take care of you because he took care of me for all those years,” said Kermit.

“Trust me Kermit; my dad would be so thrilled you sold the show as he always believed in your dream. And while he loved you like a son, I don’t think he exactly expected you to marry me,” said Jenny.

“I suppose that’s true,” said Kermit.

“Come on, let’s head back to the diner, I’m sure Piggy will be there soon and um, isn’t Ronnie supposed to be coming soon too?” asked Jenny.

“If I didn’t know any better I’d say you have a crush on Ronnie!” said Kermit teasing a little.

“Well, um, he’s kind of good looking,” said Jenny.

“I am so wounded! I officially break things off with you and the first thing you want to do is run to another man’s arms right away?” teased Kermit some more with a twinkle in his eye.

“No, it’s not that, um, well, you see,” stumbled Jenny.

“Relax, I’m teasing you. If you want, I could ask him what he thinks of you,” said Kermit.

“No! I’d die,” said Jenny.

“You’re right. I’ll just let Rizzo do it the way he did with showing Ronnie my script!” said Kermit and started to run.

“You wouldn’t dare!” yelled Jenny and started running after him laughing.

They got back to Pete’s and paused outside for a moment.

“So we’re ok?” asked Kermit.

“100% ok,” said Jenny smiling.

Kermit smiled too. Things were starting to feel normal again. Now he just had to wait for Piggy to come back as she'd promised the day before.

[theprawncracker]

Beth... this is SO GOOD! ! ! I love Pepe and Seymour's entrance--that was so exciting. They were great! Not many people include Seymour, so not many people get a chance to write him, but you did a great job with him! Pepe was also very, very funny. Good stuff. And I'm glad someone's saving Piggy.

Kermit's scene with Jenny was great. Loved how they both knew they'd be better off as just friends. But BOY do I miss Pete... :smirk:

AWESOME chapter, Beth! Keep it up!

More please! ! !

[redBoobergurl]

Kermit's scene with Jenny was great. Loved how they both knew they'd be better off as just friends. But BOY do I miss Pete... :smirk:


I have on more than one occasion wish I hadn't written Pete out so close to the beginning, I miss him too! I'll tell you a secret, one of the big reasons I did it was out of fear I wouldn't be able to write his broken English very well. The one flashback scene I put him in was hard enough! And I think I only gave him one line there! Poor Pete. Peoples is peoples.

[Muppetfan44]

Oh no! Kermit's going to think that Piggy left him again! Ooh the tension is mounting, I love it!

Please post more soon!:)

[The Count]

Mmm Monsters are so hungry... We want an update right now! Please?

[The Count]

Hey! Will this not get updated/finished? There's some fresh maple walnut cookies if you post some story. Pwease? :insatiable:

[redBoobergurl]

Oh it will - sadly I'm at a crossroads as to what needs to happen next. I know where it is going, but I have to find a bridge to get it there and not have it all seem too far fetched. I'll continue to ponder it though.

[Muppetfan44]

Yes please post more soon! Totally loving this fic!

[Muppetfan44]

Bringing this fan-fic back to the top of the list after reading it again.

I love it as much as I did before and I cannot wait to see what happens next.

Hope we can see an update sometime soon!

[mbmfrog]

Finally I was able to read into the update and what an update it was.

I mean you finally add in :rolleyes:to the story and it was in a great and helpful way too.

Also nice to see that :) is still an honorable frog and was willing to stand by his pig/girlfriend.

I must say do keep up the good work upon such a great story as I can't wait to see what happens next.

[redBoobergurl]

Thanks guys! I have run into a roadblock with this story, I know where it needs to go, just having trouble getting it there. But it will come someday I hope! Don't give up on me completely! :)

[Muppetfan44]

Just read this fic over again since the blizzard of 2010 has me stuck in my pittsburgh apartment and I love it even more than I did when I read it before...

Desperately looking for an update....sometime soon....please?