Chapter 13 - The One Where Chandler Takes a Bath

                                    

                                          
Chandler had always been skeptical about baths. To him, it seemed like a waste of time when a shower could get the job done much faster. But Darcy, who relished in the soothing effects of a hot bath after her long shifts at the hospital, was determined to change his mind.
"You'll love it," she promised, leading him to their bathroom. She filled the tub with hot water and added a generous amount of bubbles, the scent of lavender filling the room.
Chandler eyed the bubbling water warily. "I don't know, Darce. It seems a bit... much."
Darcy laughed and gave him a gentle push towards the tub. "Just get in and relax. Trust me."
Reluctantly, Chandler climbed into the tub, the hot water enveloping him. After a few moments, he let out a contented sigh. "This is actually really relaxing," he admitted, leaning back and closing his eyes.
Darcy smiled, pleased with herself. "I told you so."
Meanwhile, Joey and Monica had just returned from their honeymoon, both of them glowing with happiness. They sat in Central Perk, holding hands and sharing details about their trip.
"Married life is amazing," Joey said, grinning from ear to ear. "We had the best time in Hawaii. The beaches, the food, everything was perfect."
Monica nodded in agreement, her eyes shining. "It was the best trip of my life."
Across the room, Ross and Rachel were once again embroiled in a heated debate about baby names. "I like Emma," Rachel said firmly.
Ross shook his head. "I still prefer Isabella."
Rachel rolled her eyes. "Isabella is too long. Emma is simple and beautiful."
Ross sighed. "Fine, but we should at least have a backup name."
Phoebe, who was sitting next to them, couldn't help but chime in. "How about Phoebe Jr.?" she suggested with a grin.
Rachel laughed. "We'll keep that in mind."
Phoebe, however, was struggling with her own relationship issues. She confided in Rachel about her doubts with Mike. "I don't know if we're right for each other," she admitted, her voice filled with uncertainty.
Rachel put a comforting hand on Phoebe's arm. "Relationships are hard, Pheebs. You just have to figure out what makes you happy."
As the day went on, the friends gathered at Central Perk, their usual spot. Chandler, now a bath enthusiast, was the first to arrive, looking unusually relaxed. "Hey, guys," he greeted, settling into his favorite chair.
Joey and Monica walked in next, still buzzing from their honeymoon. "You won't believe the pictures we took," Monica said excitedly, pulling out her phone to show everyone.
Ross and Rachel followed, still debating names but in much better spirits. "We'll figure it out," Ross said, putting an arm around Rachel.
Phoebe arrived last, looking thoughtful. She took a seat next to Chandler and sighed. "You know, maybe I just need to give Mike some time. Relationships take work, right?"
Chandler nodded. "Trust me, Pheebs. If anyone knows about the ups and downs of relationships, it's us. Just hang in there."
The group settled into their usual rhythm, sharing stories, laughter, and supporting each other through their challenges. Darcy joined them after her shift at the hospital, looking tired but happy to be with her friends.
"How was work?" Chandler asked, handing her a cup of coffee.
"Busy, but good," she replied, taking a grateful sip. "It's nice to come home to this."
As the evening went on, the friends continued to share their latest adventures. Joey talked about their honeymoon escapades, Monica gushed about the romantic moments, and Rachel and Ross debated baby names with more input from the group.
"How about Chloe?" Phoebe suggested. "It's cute and simple."
Rachel considered it. "Chloe... I kind of like it."
Ross nodded. "Me too. It's a good backup."
Chandler and Darcy, now more relaxed after their bath experiment, shared a quiet moment together. "Thanks for convincing me to try the bath," Chandler said softly. "I actually enjoyed it."
Darcy smiled and squeezed his hand. "Anytime. It's good to slow down and take care of ourselves."
Phoebe, who had been quiet for a while, suddenly spoke up. "You know, I think I'm going to give Mike a call. Maybe we just need to talk things out."
Rachel nodded encouragingly. "That sounds like a good idea, Pheebs."
As the friends prepared to leave Central Perk, they felt a renewed sense of camaraderie and support. They knew that no matter what challenges lay ahead, they could always rely on each other.
As they left Central Perk, Chandler slipped his arm around Darcy's waist. "You know, I think I might make baths a regular thing," he said with a grin.
Darcy laughed and kissed his cheek. "I'll hold you to that."
The friends walked out into the cool evening air, ready to face whatever came next, knowing that together, they could handle anything.