610
The Simpson-Nelson clan was having dinner, enjoying one of Snake's famous home cooked meals. Ever since Emma got over her eating disorder, the family had really grown stronger and closer than ever. Peter was over for dinner, eating up his food like it was his last meal.
"It's not a race," Emma told him jokingly. "Have some manners."
"Sorry," Peter struggled to say as he swallowed his food. He took a drink of water. "This food is just amazing, Mr. Simpson."
"I'm always up for cooking for my family," Snake smiled. "And when we're at the house, it's Snake. You've more than earned it Peter."
"Wow. Thanks," Peter smiled. Mr. Simpson had never granted him permission to call him by his nickname before.
"So what have you been up to lately Peter?" Spike asked him. "You haven't been around for dinner as much."
"Just been busy" Peter shrugged, thinking about the time he had spending with Holly J and the lies he had to tell Emma. It hadn't been easy, but it had been worth it in his opinion. He had been having the time of his life. Two amazing girls, and all the time in the world to spend with them.
"Well we're so glad you could make it tonight" Snake said. "Almost glad enough to slip you that extra credit you've been begging for."
Everyone chuckled at his joke. Emma grinned at Peter, feeling truly happy and that she was finally in a good place after the long string of horrible events that had taken place after the shooting.
"So, Emma," Spike started to say. "I can't help but notice that you haven't been very interested in college applications so far this school year."
"Mom, you know what I've been wanting to do after senior year," said Emma, not wanting to talk about the subject. "The bike ride across Nova Scotia and New Brunswick comes first."
"Not this again" Spike shook her head.
"Wait, what's this?" Snake asked. "A bike ride across Nova Scotia and New Brunswick? Why haven't we been notified about this?"
"Yeah, why haven't we?" Peter asked with a curious smile.
Emma took a deep breath. "Well it was always just some childhood dream. But now, I'm in my senior year and time isn't going to move any slower. I just want to get everything I can out of life, and sometimes going to college isn't the best way to do that. I really want to fulfill this… get out there, and explore the world."
Peter looked at her, very intrigued. He wished he had some sort of goal or dream like this. His motivations usually all lied around gaining something… mostly girls. Snake and Spike exchanged unsure looks.
"Emma, riding a bike all the way from Nova Scotia is a lot more than it sounds like," Snake said. "It's a lot of long, grueling, hard work. And you're going to be out in unfamiliar parts of the country alone."
"What Snake is trying to say is that you have to take this seriously if you really want it," Spike interjected. "We're only going to support this if you can promise us you'll give it your all."
"Well, I want to use the rest of the school year to prepare," Emma said, looking to Peter. "I was kind of hoping we could work out together after school? I have a long way to go, and I'm going to need a lot of help."
"You don't even have to ask," Peter said, kissing Emma on the cheek. "There's nothing I'd rather do then help you achieve this."
Emma felt confident. She knew that if she really went through with this bike ride, it would be very hard as well as fulfilling. But she wanted to convince her parents she could do it. She was so glad she had Peter to help and support her. But little did she know, Peter had other things on his mind as well…
Opening Theme
Emma and Holly J were sitting in the library, talking. Emma was showing her a book that had pictures of Canadian bike trails. A few tables back, Manny and JT were practicing their lines for the play. Manny couldn't help but glance at Holly J with jealousy every once and a while for stealing her best friend.
"Wow, so you're going to cover three provinces of Canada? That's amazing!" Holly J said. "I WISH I had the endurance to do something like that."
"My parents are afraid I'm going to back out, but I think I can do it," Emma said. "I have Peter to help me."
"Great," Holly J falsely smiled, wishing she could just break the two up right then and there. She was getting tired of Peter going back and forth between the two girls and expecting her to keep it a secret from Emma.
"Yeah, he's no Lance Armstrong, but he'll do," Emma laughed. "We're going to work out after school."
"Oh, you are?" Holly J asked as an eyebrow rose.
"Yeah. Why?" Emma asked confused, as the bell rang. "Oh, class is gonna start soon! I have to check this book out, I'll see you later!"
"See ya" Holly J said as Emma got up and rushed off. Holly J would have to do something about this. She couldn't just be Peter's dirty little secret for much longer…
In Grade 11 English, Linus was going through his grammar work sheet, checking his watch every few seconds. He was impatient to get out of school so he could have his big 2 year anniversary with Kim. He didn't notice at first, but Spinner was quietly trying to look over at his paper for answers.
"Spinner, you could have just asked for help," Linus said. "Ms. Kwan's gonna make you sit outside again if she catches you cheating."
"Dude, I've had about as much help as I can handle," said Spinner. "I'm already a year behind, I might as well just give up on English. Hell, it's not like I SPEAK it or anything…"
Linus laughed. "Calm down man, it's not as hard as your making it seem." He looked down at his watch, impatiently wondering when the bell was going to ring.
"So are you in a hurry or something?" Spinner asked.
"You could say that," responded Linus. "I have a big date with Kim tonight. We've been together for 2 years."
"2 years?" Spinner asked in utter shock. "How do you go that long without wanting to kill each other?"
"We're in love," Linus said. "The lord has brought us together, and we have to celebrate it as often as we can."
"Right. Well congratulations," Spinner said, not wanting to get in a religious debate. "So when's the wedding?"
"After college, if all goes well…" Linus said uncomfortably, taking the question a little too seriously.
"If all goes well?" Spinner repeated. "What do you mean? You just said you were in love. Isn't that the plan?"
"Well yes," Linus said. "And no. Listen Spinner, I haven't told anyone this before so keep it on the down low, alright?"
"Um yeah, sure," Spinner said, wondering what secret Linus could have to tell him.
"My family came from Greece, and they're really traditional," Linus explained. "And they want me to marry the daughter of a family that's been close friends of ours all our lives. They have met Kim, but they don't accept her and they don't want to tell her. They want me to. But Kim doesn't know about any of this stuff"
"Man, that's brutal," Spinner said. "So they're forcing you to marry that chick no matter what?"
"Well they can't force me to do anything," Linus said. "But it's what's they have wanted for as long as I can remember. For me to be with their ideal Greek goddess. I haven't even though about how I'm going to explain this to Kim."
"Well whichever girl you don't end up with, just remind them that I'm single," Spinner said, giving Linus a pat on the back.
"Not helping," Linus commented. He handed Spinner his grammar worksheet. "Just copy the answers before we get detention." He rested his face on his hand, thinking about his parents. He had a strong, serious relationship with Kim… why couldn't his own parents appreciate that?
Peter sat in the foyer after school, waiting for Emma. Holly J showed up first, immediately pacing over to him and taking a seat beside him. He grinned at her.
"Hey, we have to keep this short, I'm about to meet Emma" Peter explained.
"I know," Holly J said. "Even though we already made plans to have dinner." Peter's face paled. He had completely forgotten about the dinner had planned with Holly J last night. The effects of having two girlfriends were starting to take a toll on his memory.
"Holly J, this is a big deal to Emma," Peter started to say, but saw that Holly J wasn't buying it. "Okay, I forgot… I'm sorry."
"Well maybe if you just had one girlfriend, you would remember next time," Holly J angrily said.
Peter closed his eyes in distress for a moment. "Look, I don't need this. You wanted me, so you got me. You knew what we were getting into."
"Well personally, I think it's foolish and selfish of you to just expect me to play along at this point," Holly said. "Because I know you want this to. You wouldn't be coming back every time. Now I think it's time either you make a decision or I will."
Peter sat in silence as Emma walked up in her usual cheerful mood. "Hey guys! You ready to hit the gym?" she asked Peter.
"For sure" Peter said with a smile. Holly J got up and stormed away, not saying a word to Emma.
"What's her problem?" Emma asked, wondering what was wrong.
Peter struggled to find his voice. "Uh… who knows?" he shrugged with a chuckle. "So you ready to get started?"
Linus entered his house, carefully placing his backpack on the couch. "Mom? I'm home!" he called out as he rushed over to mirror to make sure he looked okay for his date with Kim. A familiar girl popped out of the kitchen, with an excited look on her face.
"Linus!" she squealed as she ran forward and gave Linus a hug. Trying to comprehend what was happening, Linus stood in silence. Linus's mom came out of the kitchen, delighted to see the two getting re-acquainted.
"Um, mom…" Linus said as he finally broke out of the hug. "What's Gloria doing here?"
"The Harris's had to catch an earlier flight over for their visit," Linus's mom said. "You were at school when I got the news."
"Isn't this awesome?" Gloria asked. "I swear, you've grown a few inches since I was last here, you're always looking down on me!"
"Well, I eat my vegetables," Linus said awkwardly, scratching the back of his head. "Mom, can I talk to you alone for a second?"
"Yes, wait in the kitchen, I'll be there in a moment," Linus's mom said, before looking at Gloria. "I'll show you to your room."
Linus walked in the kitchen, feeling a little bit queasy. Usually when Gloria's family was making a trip over, he had time to prepare, and to hide things from Kim. This was so unexpected. And Linus didn't like when things in his routine were disturbed.
"What's wrong?" asked Linus's mom as she entered the kitchen. "Did you have a bad day at school?"
"Not exactly," Linus said, trying to speak carefully. "It's just… I'm not ready for the Harris's being here. I was just on my way to meet Kim for our 2 year anniversary."
Linus's mom looked at Linus disappointedly. "Not this again. You know how I feel about her…"
"And YOU know how I feel about her, so why can't you respect that?" Linus challenged.
Linus's mom shook her head. "Linus, we're not having this argument. What do you want me to do, tell the Harris's to leave? They've been honored friends of our family for years."
"Well what am I supposed to say to Kim?" Linus asked.
"Bring Gloria with you. Show her what your real future is going to be like and quit giving this so called girlfriend of yours false impressions" Linus's mom said.
"She is my girlfriend, whether you like it or not," Linus said.
"Linus, enough" she immediately said. "We're not going to fight like this in front of the Harris's. Tell your girlfriend whatever you want, they're only going to be here a week. Just realize that the more you feed this fire, the more it will grow."
Linus's mom left him alone, tired of fighting with her son. "This is going to be a long week" Linus complained, leaning against the wall.
Emma's hands were wrenched around the pull-up bar, holding her breath as she tried to pull herself up. Peter stood close by, trying to help her inch her way up, but she was less than willing to take his help. She wanted to get strong on her own. She raised her chin up, almost reaching over the bar, but her arms gave in, sending her back to the floor.
"How am I supposed to ride a bicycle across the country if I can't even do a pull up?" Emma asked, ashamed in herself.
"Don't be so hard on yourself," Peter said, putting his arm around her comfortingly. "It takes time to prepare for something like this. And just so you know, I'm really proud of your for trying to do this. It's pretty hardcore."
"I really needed to hear that," Emma said, her spirits beginning to lift. "Nobody thinks I can do this. I just want to try so hard to prove them wrong."
"You will prove them wrong" Peter told her confidently, as his phone vibrated. It was a reminder he had set… for his dinner with Holly J. Peter grimaced as his he put his phone back in his pocket.
"Peter, can I ask you something?" Emma asked carefully.
"Uh yeah," Peter said, a bit off guard. "You can ask me anything."
"Well, I know this is kind of a crazy question… but it's been on my mind for a while and I just have to get an answer" Emma said. Peter nodded, starting to feel terrified. This couldn't be what he thought it was going to be?
"It's just… we've been with each other through so much. You always know the right thing to say or do," Emma said. "And I think we should do this bike ride together this summer."
Peter's mouth opened, but he wasn't completely sure what to say. A summer-long bike trip? With Emma? It didn't sound like the most entertaining of ideas. But what could Peter say? They really had been through a lot together, and their relationship had obviously been passing the test of time.
"Well… I'll have to talk to my mom," Peter slowly said. "But I would love to! Explore the country with my girl… I couldn't think of a better idea!"
"Really?" asked Emma. "That's so refreshing to hear, I had no idea how you would take this. I just know I'm twice as likely to succeed with you by my side. And our relationship will be twice as stronger by the end of it."
"It'll be amazing" Peter shyly said, beginning to feel a bit scared. "Hold on one sec, we'll get back to this soon, I need to use the men's room."
"Okay," Emma said, as Peter walked out of the gym and into the hallway, sinking down a wall. How was Holly J going to take this news? He wasn't even sure how he was beginning to take it. This was gonna be messy. He got out his phone and dialed Holly J.
"Hey… look I know I've been a jerk lately," Peter said. "What do you say we talk tonight at your house? Okay, I'll meet you then."
Peter ended the call, thinking about how this was going to unfold. How was everyone going to digest this? Peter obviously wasn't built to be a backpacker. It wasn't like it was his longtime goal, but he didn't want to let Emma down. He knew how fragile she could be and of course he stilled cared for her very much. But Holly J had an irresistible flare he had noticed since the beginning of the semester.
"So what do I do man?" Peter asked as he chilled with JT at the Break Room later that night. "All I was planning on doing this summer was sleeping, partying, and enjoying my ladies. But Emma wants me to bike across Canada with her."
"Don't you actually have to be a little more… in shape, for that?" JT asked with a bit of a laugh.
"Well Emma started working out religiously, and she wants me involved 24/7. I have to break the news to Holly J, but she's starting to get mad. And I can't say I blame her. I mean, is it wrong that I have feelings for 2 beautiful, amazing girls?" Peter asked, trying to analyze his situation.
"Depends who you ask, but in this situation, it shouldn't be me," JT responded. "But if you want some real man to man advice, you're going to have to end it with someone Peter. Think… who do you truly wanna be with, Emma or Holly J?"
Peter sighed. "That's like asking if I wanna drink Coke or Pepsi. There is no right or wrong answer."
"Well let's get the female perspective," JT smirked, leading Peter over to a pool table where Alex was taking a break from playing with some other people.
"I can't wait to hear this" Peter sarcastically said as he sighed, waiting to find out what Alex would have to offer.
"Alex!" JT said, getting her attention. "My bro over here needs your advice."
"Problems in pretty boy land?" Alex laughed with false sympathy.
"So if Peter's been in a relationship with one girl for a while, but wants to break it off with a new girl he's been messing around with, how she should he handle the situation?" JT asked Alex, like it was a subject matter Alex would be informed in.
"Well, I never took you for the ladies' man" Alex said to Peter in surprise. "Coming from someone whose cheated, and been cheated on, there's no good way to do this. Either way, there's gonna be some tears, and it's gonna be a battle. Which girl do you think is hotter?"
Peter gave Alex an angry look, causing her to crack up. "Alright Alex, give him a break," JT said as he and Peter walked away. "Look man, to be honest, I don't really know how to help you. This is far beyond anything I've ever experienced. I figured, you'd have an escape hatch figured out."
"I thought I would too," said Peter sadly. "I guess I didn't know what I was getting into."
Linus was on his way to the Dot to celebrate 2 years of being together with Kim, a night they had only dreamed about 2 years ago. The sun was shining… the bird were singing… and unfortunately, so was Gloria.
"Linus, thank you so much for introducing me to some of your close friends," Gloria said. "I know how big a part we're going to play into each other's lives in the future, and I think it's great we're getting familiar with each other's lives today."
Linus didn't know how much longer he could put up with this. He had to tell her the truth. "Gloria, listen… Kim isn't just a friend."
"But your mom said you guys have been pals for 2 years?" Gloria asked, not sure what Linus was trying to say.
"Well, yeah… but Kim's kind of my girlfriend," Linus said, looking at Gloria. "And we've been dating for 2 years. My parents want to pretend it's not a big deal, but it is to me."
"Oh," Kim said, looking down a bit disappointedly. "Well… does she know about me?"
"No… it's stupid isn't it?" Linus asked. "I feel like I've been telling a lie this whole time… I'm not the saint everyone thinks I am."
"Linus, don't say that," said Gloria. "Everyone makes mistakes. I've had boyfriends before, I know how it can be. But you have to tell her."
"I know," Linus said. "But we're going to have to ease her into it. I've known her for a while, and I don't know how she's going to take this news. Just try to treat this conversation delicately."
"Don't worry about it, I got it under control" Gloria smiled.
Linus was glad Gloria was behind him. This would make it easier when they told Kim. This way, Linus could hopefully continue his relationship with Kim while he and Gloria pretended to start one for their parents. It was very risky and not something Linus wanted to deal with. But it was now or never.
Kim waited patiently, excited for a peaceful and pleasant dinner with her boyfriend. Spinner came by her table, on the job at the Dot.
"Are you sure you just don't want to order without Linus?" Spinner joked.
"I appreciate the offer," Kim laughed. "But I'm sure he'll be here any minute. This date meant the world to both of us, he's been so busy with the play that we haven't gotten to spend much quality time together-"
Kim was cut off when she noticed Linus and Gloria entering. Spinner looked up, having a concerned feeling as he remembered what Linus had told him earlier in class. "Alone" Kim finished her sentence as she questioningly looked at the two, who joined her at the table. Linus, Spinner, Kim, and Gloria all sat in awkward silence.
"Well, I'll leave you guys to talk" Spinner said with a smile as he got up and walked away quickly.
"So… I didn't know you were brining company?" Kim asked as she looked over at Gloria.
Linus and Gloria looked at each other. Linus seemed very nervous, but Gloria on the other hand was very calm and ready to break the ice. Kim was ready for an explanation.
"Kim, I have some big news to tell you," Linus said. "I'm so sorry that I've been hiding this from you all this time… it's just not the easiest thing to tell somebody. This is Gloria… she's…"
"I'm the girl his parents picked out for him to marry" Gloria piped into the conversation. Kim's jaw slightly dropped. That was the last thing she expected to hear. Linus looked at Gloria with his eyes wide. What happened to easing her into it?
"What?" Kim asked. "The girl your parents picked out for you to marry? When were you planning on telling me this?"
"I'm so sorry, I didn't think it would become an issue" Linus said.
"Well we were supposed to be together forever, it would have come into the picture at some point" Kim said madly.
"But now that you know it just won't work out, maybe you guys should find peace on your own terms" Gloria smiled. Kim scoffed as she looked at Linus, who looked at Gloria in shock.
"If this is the girl you want, then so be it," Kim said, getting up. "Just don't expect me to come back."
She stormed out of the Dot and Gloria smiled to Linus mischievously. "That went better than expected. Good thing she didn't make too much of a scene" Gloria said in a satisfied voice.
Linus looked enraged. "Why did you do that? I love her, and you just ruined everything. Why did you do that! You said you would help me. I didn't want you to break us up!"
"Linus, the only way I can help you is by making you see the truth," Gloria said with false sympathy. "And the truth is that our futures are going to be one. It's what our parents decided and it's what we must do."
"My parents have a lot of authority, and I respect that, but I'll never let them tell me who I can and can't love," Linus said in a solemn voice. He stood up, grabbing Gloria's arm. "We're leaving."
"Why? We just got here" Gloria smiled.
"We're leaving" Linus demanded, as Gloria stood up angrily. Spinner walked over, noticing the commotion they were making. "Dude, what's going on?" Spinner asked Linus. "You guys are starting to scare people."
"Well here," Linus said, fed up as he put a few dollars on the table. "Here's a tip for the trouble."
He grabbed Gloria's arm and rushed them out of there before she could fight back any further. Spinner looked at the money for a moment, shrugged, and simply put it in his pocket.
Peter knocked on the door to Holly J's bedroom, before slowly coming in. She peeked up from the homework she was looking at and smiled. She stood up and greeted him with a hot kiss.
"So I assume you took Emma out of the picture?" Holly J asked hopefully.
Peter looked down, not wanting to spoil her good mood. "Well… not exactly."
"Well my lips feel tarnished" Holly J said in disgust as she sat on her bed, arms crossed, waiting for an explanation. Peter tried to prepare himself for this one… girls were never an easy code to crack. He sat down next to her.
"Me and Emma have been together for a while," said Peter. "She would be devastated. And she wants me to go on her bike trip with her this summer."
"So all this time that we have spent just means nothing to you?" Holly J asked, offended at what he was saying.
"That's not what I said!" Peter interjected. "It's just… she's going to be horrified when she finds out. Doesn't any of this bother you at all? I thought you were her friend."
"Peter," Holly J said. "When I first laid on eyes on you, I knew I wanted to be with you. And no matter who or what stands in my way, I always get what I want. Emma will be mad, but she'll move on one day. And then we can be happy together."
Peter felt really touched at what Holly J had said… he had almost felt the same way about her. But at the same time, he felt horrible about being in this scenario. All of this was easier said than done, but Holly J was just bulletproof it seemed like. Peter looked into her eyes… the eyes that drew him in in the first place. The most beautiful eyes had ever seen.
They slowly leaned forward and began making out, letting out all the intense emotions they were feeling. They began to lie back on the bed, Holly J slowly undoing Peter's belt as Peter kissed her neck.
"Wait," Holly J stopped him. "I'm not going to do this unless I know you want me and not Emma."
Peter stopped for a moment. "I want you." They continued on, slowly undressing as the night continued.
At Linus's home, Gloria's and Linus's families were gathered around the dinner table, all catching up and talking. Linus's dad glanced nervously at Mr. Harris a few times throughout the ordeal.
"Is the Ziti cooked enough?" Linus's dad asked.
"Oh yes Paul, this food is amazing," Mr. Harris commented. He looked to Linus. "So Linus, I understand you're a junior in High School now… what do you spend most of your time doing?"
"Well I'm co-writing and directing the school play, I spend a lot of time in our schools Friendship Club," Linus said, thinking. "And besides that I just spend a lot of time my with my gir-"
"His grades," Linus's mom cut him off. "He's always been an overachiever. He gets on the A honor roll every year."
"That's so awesome" Gloria told him excitedly.
"That's not what I was going to say" Linus grimly told his mother. Mr. Harris looked confusedly at his wife and back at Linus.
"Yes it was" Linus's mom told him. "Now who's ready for dessert?"
"Hold on now, if Linus has something to say to us than by all means, let him say it" Mr. Harris said, looking to Linus curiously. Gloria gave him a look of warning, as if she was telling him to keep his mouth shut.
"I need to be excused" Linus got up from the table and walked out. Linus's dad looked nervously to Mr. Harris.
"Kids these days, huh?" Linus's dad asked with a chuckle. "It's all changed so much since you and I were boys."
"I'll check on him," Linus's mom said, with a hint of anger radiating from her voice and overall expression. She got up and left the kitchen, leaving Linus's dad to feel awkward with the Harris family.
Linus stood outside the kitchen, trying to think of what to do. It seemed like he had nobody to go to for help on this one.
"How could you disrespect members of our family and heritage like that?" Linus's mom asked in a strict tone.
"I just don't see why I should have to hide anything," Linus said. "Because I'm in love with Kim. There's nothing you, Gloria, or anybody can do to change that."
"Well as much as you would like to believe that, it isn't true," Linus's mom flatly told him. "When you were born we wanted to make sure you could marry a perfect girl who would match your every expectation. And if that girl isn't Gloria, then you're better off alone. Now get back in the kitchen."
Linus's mom walked back into the kitchen as Linus tried to regain his center again. What a two year anniversary this was turning out to be…
"So when are you going to tell Emma?" Holly J asked. She and Peter were finishing getting dressed in her room. It was very late, and Peter had stayed out a little past curfew.
"I'll tell her as soon as I see her tomorrow," Peter said. "I'm done acting like an idiot. You're the one I want to be with."
Holly J smiled as she gave Peter a kiss. "Good. Tomorrow will probably be a rough day, but just think… we won't have to hide from anyone anymore."
"And the best is yet to begin," Peter smiled. "I'll get it all handled. Good night."
"Good night," Holly J said as they embraced for one last kiss. "Be quiet when you're going through my window, my parents are sleeping."
"Well I haven't had much experience, but I'll try," Peter said with a smirk as he began to open the window so he could leave for home. Tomorrow WAS going to be a rough day. Things with Emma were fun while they lasted… but all good things must come to an end.
The thought never left his head… it followed him through his sleep and all the way until he was at Emma's house to pick her up for school the next morning. He was in for some tears. She walked toward his car, seeming to be in a cheerful and peppy mood.
"Hey!" Emma said as she got in the car and buckled up. She kissed Peter on the cheek. "Today is going to be so awesome-"
"Wait," said Peter. "I need to talk to you about something.
"Well hold it, because I have to get this off my chest," Emma said. "I sent professional cyclist Ryan Anderson an email since he was doing a book signing in Toronto, and he agreed to come speak at my Environmental Club meeting today!"
"Really?" Peter asked. "That's awesome… now, you can really learn from the best about bicycling."
"You mean WE can learn from the best," Emma smiled. "So what did you wanna tell me?"
Peter froze. It had completely slipped his mind for a second. He couldn't tell her now. She was in such a good mood. "It's not important" Peter vaguely said as they drove off to school.
In Theatre, JT, Danny, Manny, Darcy, and Chantay, among other students were waiting for Linus and Tim to arrive so they could start play practice. It was unusual that one of them would be late, let alone both of them at the same time.
"What's going on? I was actually early today," JT said. "And I don't just show up early for anything."
"Shocking," Darcy joked as she rolled her eyes.
Linus suddenly marched in, a stiff, pissed off look on his face. "Sorry I'm late everyone. Tim got sick today and had to check out so he won't be joining us today."
"And we get stuck with the psycho director" Danny muttered to his friends. JT and Chantay chuckled and Linus looked at them irritably.
"Danny, if you have a problem then nobodies asking you to stay here," Linus said.
"Nah man, we're good" Danny said, rolling his eyes.
"Alright, then keep quiet. Everybody get ready for the first scene on Page 38!" Linus ordered. "And don't waste any time today, get straight into your roles and straight into your work!"
"Jeez, what's his problem?" Manny whispered to Chantay. Chantay shrugged, not wanting to even find out.
"What means this, my lord?" Darcy read from her script as the character of Ophelia. Linus shut his eyes in disappointment shaking his head.
"We shall know by this fellow," JT said, acting as Hamlet. "The players cannot keep counsel, they'll tell all."
"Will he tell us what this show meant?" Darcy asked.
"Flip to a later scene," Linus commanded suddenly. "I don't care which one it is, just put more emotion into it this time for Christ sake!"
Everyone quickly scrambled to a different place, trying to pull it together so they wouldn't make their director mad.
"My brother shall know of it and so I thank you for your good counsel," Darcy said, turning to Danny, who tried to find his place. "Come my coach! Good night, sweet ladies."
"Follow her close," Danny said, trying to capture the character of King Claudius. But non-surprisingly, he wasn't living up to Linus's expectations. "Give her good watch. I pray for you. Oh, this is the poison of deep grief-"
"Cut! Danny, Darcy, if you guys don't pick it up a bit, I'll recast you," Linus threatened. Danny and Darcy looked at each other. Danny was starting to get angry and he began to stomp toward Linus.
"Look man we're doing everything we can, sorry if it's not good enough for your perfect world!" Danny said, giving Linus a hard shove as he reached him. Linus shoved him back as the rest of the cast ran to break the fight up.
"Relax Danny, cool it," JT said he pulled Danny away. "He isn't worth it anyway man."
"Okay, I'm calling for a 20 minute break! Everyone agree?" Manny asked. She didn't even need an answer, as people began gathering in their own groups of friends to converse. Linus angrily kicked the wall as he walked out.
"Why couldn't he have been the one who gotten sick today?" Chantay asked with a frown.
Holly J entered the Media Immersion Lab on her free period, to see Emma sitting at a computer. Emma was probably feeling really down right now… But they were going to have to cross paths at some point. Holly J hesitantly sat down beside Emma. "Hey… how are you?" Holly J asked.
"Awesome," Emma said. "Did you hear about Ryan Anderson visiting for my Environmental Club meeting?"
"Um, no, that's awesome!" Holly J said, trying to sound excited. "So… did you talk to Peter today?"
"Yeah, why?" Emma asked confusedly.
"Nothing," Holly J said, starting to extremely angry suddenly. "I just lost something, I think he might have taken it."
"Oh, well what is it? Maybe I can help you find it," Emma said, completely unaware to what Holly J was referring to.
"Nope. I don't think I'm gonna get it back," Holly J said, standing and exiting the classroom. Emma wondered why Holly J had been in such a bad mood lately but shrugged it off as she focused back on the computer.
Linus sat in History class, his eyes on Kim, who was paying close attention to Mr. Perino's lesson. Linus couldn't believe how jumbled up his life had gotten in such a short amount of time…
"And the first battle of World War I was what, Linus?" Mr. Perino asked, noticing Linus was drifting off.
"Oh, I uh…" Linus barely heard the question. "Battle of the Bulge?"
"Close, just one World War off," Mr. Perino said, causing the class to crack up. "Battle of Marne." Kim looked back at Linus, confused. He never got a question wrong. The bell rang and students shot out of their seats. Kim walked up to Linus. "Can we talk?"
Linus stood up as they walked out of class together. "My parents don't think we should see each other."
"But you're going to fight back, right?" Kim asked. "I know you Linus, you never back down without a fight."
"Well, I've tried," Linus said. "I've fought as hard as I possibly can. But my parents aren't changing, and as long as their around, neither is my future."
"So what do you mean?" Kim asked as they came to a stop.
Linus sighed. He hated having to say this. "Kim… I love you more than anything, and you know it. But this is my family. It's just… I-"
"Save it," Kim said, pushing him aside as she stormed off angrily. "You're a coward."
Holly J found Peter in the hallway, who looked happy to see her. She pushed him into a locker, completely flipping his emotions.
"Whoa, don't kill me!" Peter said, backing off. "What was that for?"
"I shouldn't have to tell you at this point. You said yourself, the next time you saw her that you were going to break up with her," Holly J said.
"Holly J, I'm trying my best," said Peter. "I was going to break up with her, she was so excited about her stupid environmental club thing, I just didn't want to bring her down."
"You're going to bring her down either way, don't you think?" Holly J asked. "You're not helping her by continuing this. End it, before I really do this time."
Several students were gathered at the Environmental Club meeting. This would be unusual, but professional cyclist Ryan Anderson attracted plenty of attention. Ashley and Emma looked at each other excitedly.
"I think this is the most we've attracted this year!" Ashley said excitedly, looking at the mountains of people.
"I never thought I'd say this, but they're in for one hell of an Environmental Club meeting!" Emma said. "Ryan Anderson has some great stories to tell. He was showing me his workout regimen… I'm gonna have to start seriously bulking up."
"How are you going to go through with this?" Ashley asked. "My arms are usually fried after 2 push-ups."
"I just will," Emma smiled. "With Peter, I can do anything."
"Speaking of which," Ashley grinned, motioning behind Emma. Emma turned around to see Peter coming. Ashley walked away to leave the two alone. Manny, who was heading to the Environmental Club meeting, stopped in her tracks.
"Hey! You're hear just in time, Ryan's about to start!" Emma said as she started to pull him inside.
"Wait!" Peter stopped her. "There's something I have to say…"
"Well can't it wait, the meetings supposed to start any minute now," Emma said.
"No," Peter shook his head. "It can't wait." Emma realized he was serious and she stopped to give him her full attention. "Emma, listen… these past couple months, I haven't exactly been… honest."
"Honest about what?" Emma asked, feeling as if her heart had just stopped. Manny heard what was going on and looked surprised.
"Well… I've been spending a lot of time with Holly J," Peter said. "And… I think I want to be with her."
Emma was silent, feeling a roller coaster of emotions go through her. "I'm sorry Emma. I didn't want things to end like this. I hope one day, you can forgive me," Peter said, walking off and leaving it short and simple. Emma stood in disbelief. Her boyfriend of almost a year had just dumped her and revealed he was cheating on her with her friend.
"Emma!" Ashley said. "Everyone's getting restless. You ready to get started?"
"Coming" Emma said, trying to keep going. Trying to act like she didn't just have a major breakup and betrayal.
"Everyone, I'd like to introduce to Degrassi, someone who has come all the way from British Columbia," Emma said, feeling her voice start to break. Tears were starting to form. "He's a… three times World Championship Member… Ry…"
She burst into tears, crying uncontrollably. Ryan Anderson looked a little freaked out, wondering if he had made the right decision coming to this school or not.
"Ryan Anderson!" Ashley said, grabbing Emma and taking her away. The crowd slowly began to clap as Ryan Anderson came out and tried to start talking. The awkward vibe was glued to the room.
As Emma cried, Ashley hugged her and tried to console her. "It's okay, Emma, I know what you're going through," Ashley said, thinking about Craig. "Guys can be major pigs sometimes. They change their minds more often than they change their clothes. You deserve much better than that douchebag."
She looked up to see Manny standing at the doorway, hesitant to get a word with Emma. "Um, Emma" Ashley said, motioning for her to look up. Emma wiped off her eyes and saw Manny.
"Manny!" Emma said as she rushed forward, embracing her in a hug. "I'm so sorry… you were right this whole time. I was so stupid, how could I have let this happen?"
"You're not stupid Em," Manny said, holding her friend tightly. "That girl is just evil. I knew she was bad news the moment she crawled in this place. But it's not your fault you didn't see it, she's a manipulating liar."
"I just can't believe I didn't know this whole time," Emma said. "They were sneaking around for months and I had no idea. How could Peter do this? He used to be the only guy I could count on."
"I think you and me need to be done counting on guys," Manny said, giving Emma an encouraging look. "They're nothing but bad influences."
"But Peter was different… he cared," Emma said as she looked up and saw Peter and Holly J walking off, holding hands. Emma began crying again.
"It's okay Emma. We're all here for you. Those two are scumbags and we're going to make sure everyone knows it," Manny said. "I see bad karma coming their way."
"Can we just do something a little less intense?" Emma asked, wanting to get her mind off of this. "Like a sleep over tonight?"
Manny smiled. "Me and Liberty have had EMPTY holes in our hearts since you have been gone. You can count on it."
Emma smiled. But deep inside, she was hurting so much. She didn't really know if anything could heal her pain this time.
Next Time on Degrassi…
When JT and Jane start spending more time together, Alex feels lonely… and starts partying hardcore to fill the void.
Danny gets a spot as the new school mascot, but a certain member of the Spirit Squad turns his job from fun into hell.