Rachel shook her head, still smiling. "No, it's fine. Just... maybe knock next time?"
Chandler chuckled. "Deal. Thanks, Rachel."
Darcy, who had been watching the exchange, gave Chandler a thumbs-up. "See? Not so bad."
Chandler grinned. "Yeah, thanks, Darcy. You always know how to make things better."
---
Later that day, the gang gathered at Monica's apartment for lunch. The atmosphere was more relaxed, but Joey still looked troubled. Darcy sat down next to him, offering a comforting presence.
"Joey, do you want to talk more about what's going on with your parents?" Darcy asked gently.
Joey sighed, running a hand through his hair. "I talked to my mom. She knows about the affair and has known for a while. She said she's just trying to keep the family together."
Monica frowned. "That's so tough, Joey. How are you holding up?"
Joey shrugged. "I don't know. I feel like I should do something, but I don't know what."
Darcy nodded. "Sometimes just being there for your mom is enough. Let her know you support her."
Joey looked thoughtful. "Yeah, maybe you're right. Thanks, Darcy."
Ross, trying to lighten the mood, changed the subject. "So, Chandler, any more accidental peeks today?"
Chandler groaned, but everyone laughed, including Rachel. "Very funny, Ross. No more accidents, thankfully."
Phoebe, ever the free spirit, grinned. "Well, if it makes you feel better, Chandler, I've walked in on worse."
Chandler raised an eyebrow. "Worse than Rachel topless?"
Phoebe nodded. "Oh, yeah. You wouldn't believe the things I've seen."
The group laughed, the tension easing as they shared stories and jokes. Darcy looked around the table, feeling grateful for their friendship and support.
---
As the afternoon turned into evening, the friends decided to watch a movie together. Joey picked out a comedy, hoping to lift everyone's spirits. Darcy settled onto the couch between Monica and Joey, enjoying the relaxed atmosphere.
Halfway through the movie, Chandler leaned over to Darcy. "Thanks again for earlier. I really appreciate it."
Darcy smiled. "Anytime, Chandler. That's what friends are for."
After the movie ended, the group started to disperse. Joey lingered, looking like he had something on his mind. Darcy noticed and stayed behind to talk to him.
"Hey, Joey, you okay?" Darcy asked, her voice gentle.
Joey sighed. "I just keep thinking about my mom. She's so strong, but I can tell she's hurting."
Darcy nodded. "It's hard seeing someone you love go through something like that. Just keep being there for her. She needs you."
Joey smiled gratefully. "Thanks, Darcy. You're really good at this."
Darcy shrugged modestly. "I've had my own share of family drama. It helps to have someone to talk to."
Joey looked curious. "You don't talk about your family much."
Darcy smiled sadly. "We're not that close. It's complicated. But that's why I'm so grateful for you guys. You're like my second family."
Joey gave her a warm hug. "We're lucky to have you, Darcy."
---
The next morning, the gang gathered at Central Perk, ready to start a new day. Joey looked more at ease, and Chandler was back to his usual self.
"So, Chandler, any plans to knock before entering bathrooms from now on?" Rachel teased, grinning.
Chandler rolled his eyes playfully. "Yes, Rachel, I've learned my lesson."
Phoebe laughed. "Good, because we can't have you peeking at everyone."
The group laughed, and Darcy looked around, feeling a deep sense of gratitude for their friendship.
As the day went on, they continued to support each other, sharing stories, laughter, and a few tears. Darcy knew that no matter what challenges they faced, they would get through it together.
And as she sipped her coffee, surrounded by her friends, Darcy felt a deep sense of contentment. No matter what life threw at them, they would always have each other. And that, she realized, was what truly mattered.