The Number Project

"Welcome home Rick!" Everyone cried out in unison.

Rick couldn't help but smile.

"Rick!" Maru cried, quickly running over to hug him.

"Yeesh," he laughed, stroking her head. "You haven't seen anyone here in four years, yet you come runnin' over to me immediately." He smiled.

"S-so!?" Maru cried, puffing her cheeks.

As everyone filled the apartment, various conversations began.

"Rick!" Tammy called out, as she quickly ran over. "I want you two to finally meet!" She beamed, as she grabbed her partner by the arm.

"Hey, Mr. Summers." They gave a wave. "Nice to finally meet ya." They smiled.

"Ah, likewise." Rick smiled, extending his hand.

"O-oh!" Tammy's partner laughed, as they shook his hand.

"Rick, this is Riley," Tammy began. "And Riley, as you know by now, this is Rick!" She exclaimed.

"Tammy's had a lot of nice things to say about ya." Riley laughed.

Rick smiled, petting Tammy's head. "I sure hope so." He laughed.

Tammy giggled. "I know everyone else is dying to catch up...but c-can I speak to you alone for a minute, Rick?" She asked.

"M-mm!" Rick gave a nod, waving goodbye to Riley as Tammy pulled him into the kitchenette.

"You grew out your hair!" She beamed, twirling a piece with her finger.

"So did you!" He laughed, swishing her braid.

"Rick..." Tammy looked down.

"What's up?" He asked.

"It's just..." She blushed. "A lot has happened while you were gone, and I..." Tears welled in her eyes. "All of us wished we could've experienced these four years of change with you around..." She looked up at him, with tears in her eyes.

"O-oi, Tams..." Rick whispered, hugging her. "I'm back now, aren't I?" He smiled.

Tammy nodded, as she sobbed. "Despite being an only child...I guess I know how it feels now when an older sibling leaves." She laughed. "You know you're like a brother to me, a-and I hope you'll get used to Riley," she paused. "I've waited for a long time for you two to finally meet." She closed her eyes, smiling. "They have a good heart."

Rick smiled. "I've never doubted you, or your ability to see the good in people, Tammy." He grabbed her hands. "If you chose to love them, then they clearly have a good heart." Tammy's eyes twinkled.

"T-thank you..." She whispered, smiling. "N-now!" She began. "I'll let everyone else catch up with you!" She waved, as she walked back to the living room.