The first Public Works Project part 3
Roll almost didn't want to even wake up that morning, she was feeling emotionally spent. She had a good reason to feel that way too.
Yesterday, after the triple argument that had occurred, her venture to try and relax by fishing ended up just landing her in the wrong place at the wrong time. While at the river, she ran into Benjamin and Alfonso, who each had their own idea for a public works project. Benjamin proposed a Tire Toy and Alfonso had suggested a Jungle Gym. Before Roll could even say thank you for their suggestions, the two boys began to argue over which idea was better. Roll tried to intervene this time, but was told by both to "bud out!". Roll just walked away and decided to head to the beach to see if she could get away from the fighting for a little while. But fate had other ideas for her. She found Purrl and Whitney taking a constitutional along the beach shore together when Roll had started fishing in the ocean. She had even tried standing along the edge of the surf to see if the shifting waters along her bare feet would help her relax. The minute the two snooty villagers saw her, they were quick to share of own public works projects ideas to her. Purrl had a Statue fountain and Whitney had a hot springs. Then of course the dispute began after Purrl accused Whitney of worrying too much about her complexion. Whitney asked why Purrl would want just a stupid statue that doesn't help anyone? Roll tried to add her two cents but was quickly shut down. in fact, when she tried to push the two apart, she got knocked into the surf. Now soaking wet, she gave up trying to do some fishing altogether and headed towards the orchard to gather some oranges for money when she bumped into Marshal. By now she had prepared to hear about another project request, which the squirrel offered a Wind Turbine. Roll liked the idea of having Eco-friendly electricity, but then Rudy popped out of nowhere and proposed the Instrument shelter, saying weather forecasts were more important. Everywhere Roll got proposals, she ran into two villagers arguing over which project was better. Of course, Roll could not get a word in edge wise no matter what she did and just walked away.
Then as if things didn't get worse, on her way home she found a that Margie, Katt, Rosie, and Bunnie were still arguing with each other, blocking her entrance to her own house. Except now the argument was four ways. At first only words were exchanged but then to her shock, Margie, of all people slapped Rosie across the face. Margie went into over apologetic mode and tried to say sorry until Bunnie slugged her, knocking Margie down. Katt then gave a feline shriek as she dive bombed on top of Margie and Rosie and Bunnie joined the foray as the four began to wrestle with each other, causing a cartoon-style cloud to surround them. Roll only need a second before she rushed over to the group.
"Stop! Stop! Stop it!" Roll shouted. Roll was then nailed in the face by someone's fist and sent to the ground. That got everyone to stop fighting as Roll slowly rose to her feet. Roll couldn't speak as she just held the area that had gotten struck, which was her eye. She broke down in tears and dashed back to her house and there she stayed for the rest of the day. While no one came after her, she was still shaken up about going back outside. She didn't want someone else to hit just because she was there.
She had no intentions of getting out of bed after what had happened. The only place she could find comfort was under her blankets of her bed. Then she was startled by a loud knock on the door. Roll hoped that they would only knock a few more times and then leave, but then was startled when they made their way into her house. Fearing that she was either being robbed or about to be tracked down or worse, she ducked underneath her bed and curled into a ball. Roll trembled as she could hear footsteps slowly make their way towards her bedroom. Roll nearly held her breath as she saw a pair of light brown feet make their way into the bedroom. Then they immediately made their way towards the bed. Roll had never felt this frightened in a long time when the figure showed their face and Roll screamed. Yet the scream was short lived.
Mostly because she saw that is was Sable, wearing a gingham apron but had added a sunhat just like Roll's to her head.
"Roll, what are you doing under there?" she asked gently. Roll just continued to hide against the back wall, afraid to move towards her.
"I...I thought...you...you were a robber...or...s-s-someone...w-w-w-ho..."
"Calm down," said Sable, seeing that Roll was clearly frightened, "I am not gonna hurt you. If you recall, you gave my family a spare house key." Roll just looked at her and then settled a bit, but still remained curled into her small ball.
"Oh...r-r-right," said Roll with a sheepish but also embarrassed chuckle.
"Come on out of there," said Sable. Roll didn't want to, but after noticing that Sable wasn't going to move, she obeyed. She slowly belly crawled out and Sable gasped when she saw her.
"Roll what happened to you?" Sable exclaimed with worry. Roll looked puzzled until she took a look at herself through her vanity. She noticed that her left eye was now a deep shade of black. Roll just looked at it with a blank expression on her face. Sable only needed to see the sadness on Roll's face started to grow and her body slouched forward to realize what Roll was doing.
"Stop!" said Sable firmly, knowing that Roll was degrading herself in the mirror. Roll just looked at her quietly. Sable pulled the young girl into her arms and just held her gently. Roll only needed about three seconds before she just broke down crying. Sable just held her gently, but had guided her to the bed so they were sitting on the edge until Roll had cried herself out. Sable then ducked into her pockets where she kept a tiny first aid kit. She opened it and grabbed some medicine and began to tend to Roll's eye.
"Does it really matter?" Roll whimpered.
"Yes it does," said Sable, "A girl like you is far too pretty to be walking around with a black eye. Now why don't you tell me how you got this while I tend to it?" Roll really didn't want to but she felt the urge to. She needed to talk to someone about this and if there was anyone she could confide in right now, it was Sable.
"Well, I got my town development permit yesterday," Roll quietly, "and I was really excited about building my very first public works project."
"I see," said Sable as she applied the medicine to her eye. While Roll flinched at the contact of the cloth with the solution, she knew it stung because the medicine was doing its work. It wasn't much longer before her eye was completely healed.
"So, you got your permit for making public works projects," said Sable, "Now how does that tie in with you getting a black eye?" Roll sniffled.
"Everyone in the town began suggesting public works projects," said Roll, "but then they were fighting over which project was better. Then a fist fight broke out and when I tried to break it up (sniff). I got nailed in the face!"
"They hit you?!" Sable exclaimed in shock.
"I don't know who hit me," Roll sobbed, "and they kept fighting and wouldn't stop! I didn't know what else to do...so...so like a coward I ran here and I've been here since last evening!" Roll began to cry again, but this time loudly. Sable just embraced her gently until she had calmed down again, in which she gently wiped her tears away once she had cried herself out.
"I didn't think developing a town would be such a mess," said Roll, "and I still have to chose a project to build."
"No you don't," said Sable, "No one can force you to make a public works project dear. Developing the town is purely optional Roll. You are not obligated to develop the town and no one can force you in choosing a project either."
"Maybe, but building and developing the town is my responsibility," Roll quietly, "but after what I saw happened after just taking suggestions, I am really nervous to pick a project right now."
"Why Roll?" Sable asked her curiously.
"I don't want the villagers to hate me," said Roll quietly, "I don't want to get hit again!"
"Roll, from what you told me, you got beaned in the eye because you accidentally got caught in the crossfire," said Sable, "Nobody would dare slug you just because you didn't pick their project."
"Are you sure?" Roll asked fearfully.
"Of course I'm sure," said Sable, "Now come on. I'm sure you've got some dailies that you need to get done today!"
"You're...you're coming with me?" Roll asked. Sable nodded.
"Of course," said Sable, "You need a friend right now. Plus I'm not going to let anyone hurt my friend because of their problems!" Roll was dumbfounded and just shook her head.
"But all that work in your shop," she croaked, "you hate falling behind Sable! Why put yourself behind for me?" Sable just gave her a warm smile.
"You come first," she said simply and Roll covered her face and began to cry once more. Now Sable was even more concerned about Roll than ever.
"Roll is there something that I need to..."
"No one has ever said that to me!" she sobbed in a broken tone as he tears continued to stream down her face. Sable just looked at her as her heart filled with compassion and sympathy towards the girl.
Forget my own past, she thought to herself, this poor girl had been downright neglected! No wonder she thinks so little of herself! No one...no one has ever cared enough to help her before. That is so sad...
"That orphanage really neglected you didn't they?" said Sable concerned. Roll tried to calm herself down and just nodded. Sable waited, hoping Roll would say more to open up to her.
"Like I said," said Roll quietly, "I was invisible, doomed to live in my own dusty, dirty corner of the building. They didn't care how I was doing. They didn't care how I felt or what I thought. I had no friends, no support. They only cared that we stayed out of trouble and went to bed on time. I bet if I was dead, they never would have noticed!"
"Don't say that," said Sable, "and why didn't people pay attention to you? Why would parents have felt the compassion to even go over to you and try to speak with you?" Roll just looked at her sadly and shrugged her shoulders.
"What do you think keeps me up at night?" Roll asked upset, "and tears away at my soul day after day? I. Just. Don't. Know." Now Sable was starting to get somewhere. Roll had just revealed another clue about herself. The fact that she was ignored and neglected in the orphanage. Any child would want to know why they were being shut out if they weren't doing anything to cause it. Plus being ignored could really damage a person in the long run. She would know.
"That kind of explains why you struggle to feel good about yourself sometimes, or feel beautiful," said Sable. Roll just sniffed to herself.
"Well?" said Roll.
"Well what dear?" Sable asked gently.
"Why did they do that to me?" Roll asked, "and how do I know the villagers won't do that to me when I make my choice?"
"They won't," said Sable, "and while I can't answer that question about why parents didn't want you. I can certainly tell you that they clearly were not worth your time Roll. There's nothing wrong with you and if they can't see that, then they were the most stupid people in the entire world." Roll just looked at her sadly before a small smile came from her face.
"Thanks Sable," said Roll, "I've...never had a friend who would do what you're doing for me before. Thank you." Sable smiled before she embraced her. Roll hugged her back as a soft smile appeared on her face.
"Aright, you get dressed so we can get going on your day," said Sable. Roll nodded as she changed into her overalls dress. She tried to ponytail her hair, but Sable stopped her and started to comb it herself.
"I usually keep in a ponytail or pigtails," said Roll.
"Roll, Harriet really did a wonderful job making your hair have a natural curl," said Sable, "It's so pretty down. You should leave it that way sometimes." roll just looked at herself quietly in the mirror.
"I don't know..." Roll said in hesitation.
"Please...for me?" Sable asked sweetly. Roll just sighed and let go of her hair so it flowed effortlessly down her back, showing that it's length was roughly halfway down her back. Sable smiled as she gave a gentle brush and put on Roll's sunhat. Then they made their way out of the house.
"So what do you do first?" Sable asked.
"Well I better water these flowers first," said Roll, pointing to the rather large collection of flowers nearby.
"Did you enact the beautiful town ordinance?" said Sable, "We got the message about it last night from Isabelle."
"Yeah, but Isabelle said it would take a day or two before the law would take effect in terms of not seeing dying flowers and such," Roll explained.
"Well, go on," said Sable, "I'll be right here when you finish with these." Roll nodded, with some reluctance to move and then got to work. Since the flowers were so scattered now, Roll alternated from her money rock and fossil searching with watering every now and then. And to prove her speculation about the beautiful town ordinance taking another day to go into effect, Roll did find her usual three weeds and even a few dying flowers, which Roll immediately watered. She had just hit her fifth rock and got nothing when she noticed Bunnie walking by. Despite the fist fight, she didn't appear to have any bruises, scrapes, or cuts on herself. Well...there was a small tear on the side of her green plaid tee.
"Hey Bunnie," she called out.
"Ugh," was her only reply.
"Are you okay?" Roll asked.
"No! I'm not, tee hee!" said Bunnie angrily, "That Rosie drives me crazy and Katt does to. I don't know why I put up with them. They're both just spoiled brats!"
"The way I heard it," said Sable, trying to sound impartial, "It sounded like you were both to blame."
"Puh!" Bunnie retorted indignantly, "You obviously heard wrong! Just leave me alone, tee hee!"
"Bunnie, wait!" Roll called out, but Bunnie had already walked away without another word. Roll just watched the brunt orange bunny walked away sadly as Sable put a hand on her shoulders.
"Don't worry about it Roll," said Sable, "let's just get to work." Roll nodded as she continued on her way. When she finally found her money rock, she noticed Margie exchanging some heated glances with Purrl and Alfonso before she accidentally collided with Lolly, who had been giving dirty looks to Fang and Benjamin.
"Watch where you're going stupid head!" Margie yelled.
"Why don't you, ya giant carcass!" Lolly shouted.
"Stop calling me fat!" Margie croaked.
"Stop calling me stupid!" Lolly croaked back before they both began to cry.
"You're awful! I hate you!" they both shouted in broken tone and then dashed away in tears. Sable just looked at the two in disapproval and Roll just finished storing her 16K into her pockets.
"Is this what I am going to have to put up with from now on?" said Roll sadly.
"Of course not," said Sable, "Everyone is just being ridiculous. Just keep doing your routine and try not to let it bother you so much okay."
"How do you know?" Roll asked worried, "You and Labelle didn't speak to each other for years before you made up!"
"That was a completely different situation," said Sable firmly, but gently, "Our fight was personal. Sure some harsh words were exchanged but it was just over something trivial. Think about it Roll. Everyone is mad at each other because they think their idea is better than the other. It's childish, but it is amazing that no matter how old you get. Fights can happen over the silliest of things."
"Well at least you didn't get the fist end of the fight," said Roll, rubbing her left eye despite that Sable had already healed it completely.
"Oh I have," said Sable, "in fact, Mabel once took a hit for me back when we were adjusting to having Labelle back home. It's been settled of course and Mabel forgave us both. My point is that sometimes getting caught in the crossfire happens, especially when you just want to keep peace. I can see your more of a peacekeeper than a fighter."
"True," said Roll, "but it's doesn't help that I stink at it."
"You just need to learn to defend yourself," said Sable, "And I know am the last person to say that to you, but still...it is the truth."
"You might struggle with that Sable," said Roll, "but any advice from you is worth alot more to me than you think. And you're right. I need to learn to defend myself more, but I hate seeing everyone so mad at each other now."
"Like I said," said Sable, "Just give it time and things will cool down. And don't let them determine what public works project you choose. In the end it's your decision what the first project will be and I'm sure you'll find just the right one to make everyone happy."
"I hope so," said Roll doubtfully.
"I know so," said Sable, "Now come on! Kick's shop just opened and I know you could use some more shoes. Even if you hate wearing them."
"Yeah," said Roll with a hallow chuckle, "I probably do. (sigh) Sable am I..."
"No, you're not," said Sable, "It's who you are." Roll smiled, as she looked at her feet and wiggled her toes, making Sable chuckle and they walked hand in hand to main street. While Sable let Roll have her time at T&T mart and Leif's...she immediately led her afterwards straight towards Kicks store. Roll just took a deep breath and walked inside. It was there she noticed a large white and black tail was raised in front of her.
"EEK!" Roll shrieked and tried to break for the door, but Sable stopped her just as the skunk turned around, revealing his cream overalls and white shirt along with a matching paperboys cap on his head.
"What's all the commotion about?" he asked curiously in a Australian accent.
"Oh sorry, Kicks," said Sable as she settled Roll down, "You're tail was raised and my friend here thought...you know..." Kicks stared for a moment and then laughed heartily, which only made Roll blush and feel embarrassed again.
"Easy there, mate," said Kicks, "I won't stench ya! I'm just a young shopkeeper ready to sell my wares. You must be the new mayor am I right?"
"Yes, sir," said Roll, "Or would you I call you...?"
"The name is Kicks," said the young skunk, "I've crafted some of the finest shoes, socks, and stockings that money can buy. I do hope you find something to your liking!"
"Oh...s-s-sure," said Roll nervously as she made her way over the area where he had some choice stockings on display, but when she looked at them again, she noticed that they were actually leggings. Both were cropped length (one inch past the knees) and in grey and black that had lacing on the leg bottoms.
"Oh I'll take both of these," said Roll, "how much for the leggings?"
"Those are 240 bells each," said Kicks, "there a good alternative to those who like extra breathing in cooler weather." Roll then blushed bright red.
"So...you know about my...fetish-ness?" she asked shyly. Kicks smiled.
"Indeed I do," said Kicks, "It does my heart good that you are willing to check out my shop."
"Y-y-yeah," said Roll, "I kind of do need some shoes for rain or snow and such. I figured I could come in with an open mind."
"No need to limit yourself to just those occasions mate," said Kicks, "I offer various types of shoes as well, boots, tennis shoes, buckle style, pumps, slip-ons, and even sandals."
"Oh, some sandals would be nice," said Roll, "I like the...hey those are the ones I got as a welcome gift!" Roll walked over to the pair of orange sandals on display for 420 bells.
"How did they fell on your feet?" Kicks asked.
"Like a dream," said Roll, "I had no idea they were from your collection Kicks. If your other shoes are that comfortable, I'll definitely be buying a few pairs from here!"
"Well feel free to take a look around mate," said Kicks, "I usually offer two types of socks and four types of shoes daily so be sure to check in every day."
"I will for sure," said Roll, "now what else do you have." The next pair up was a pair of yellow rain boots. Roll just looked at her feet and then moved on. She really wanted to try and find something else. Then she came across a pair of pink flip-flop style sandals.
"Oh these are pretty," said Roll.
"Those are the pink kimono sandals. Care to try them on?" Kicks asked. Roll nodded as she put them on her feet. Not only were they her size but the small banding that was between her big toe and index toe didn't feel awkward for her since it was the first time she had worn a sandal of that type.
"How do they feel now that you've got them on your feet?" Kicks asked, "the price is 480 bells."
"They feel so light," said Roll, "I feel like they aren't even there! And the bottom is so soft!"
"Meaning..." Sable asked with a smirk.
"I'm buying them!" she exclaimed as she slipped them off and gave Kicks the money. Then she went to the fourth pair and froze. Her smile quickly replaced with a sad frown.
"What's wrong Roll?" Sable asked. Roll pointed to the fourth pair of shoes, which were a pair of brown pumps.
"I had a pair just like those," said Roll, "I had to wear them day in and day out back...back you know where." Sable just gave her a sympathetic look and hugged her.
"What is going on?" he asked, puzzled about the issue with the brown pumps.
"Roll wore a pair of those growing up during her previous home," said Sable, "they bring bad memories." Kicks made an O with his mouth and nodded.
"Well I can assure you that those pumps and these pumps are not from the same family," said Kicks, "see for yourself." Kicks handed her the shoes and Roll just quietly began to examine them. She did see his point. Her brown pumps were scratched up, faded, rough to touch as well as wear, especially without socks. These brown pumps were very soft and Roll fingered the material around the shoe, seeing that it was a tad fuzzy against her finger. She decided to try them on. She noticed the difference right away. These ones felt like she was walking on clouds. She never once felt like the shoe was bothering or irritating her feet. As said before, unlike her old pumps, these ones could be worn comfortably without a sock. Overall, compared to her old pair, these were pure luxury for her. Then she heard something nagging the back of her mind.
You're not good enough for those shoes! They're brand new!
You don't deserve nice things!
You don't deserve them!
You're not good enough!
"YES I AM!" Roll bellowed making both Sable and Kicks jump in surprise. Roll only needed a second before she realized her outburst.
"Sorry," said Roll quietly, "Anyways, you're right. These brown pumps are nothing like my old ones. There so much better. How much?" Kick just started a bit before giving her smile.
"They will be 460 bells," said Kicks, "and are you going to wear them out?" Roll hummed in a puzzled manner until she looked at her feet and chuckled.
"Wow, you're shoes are so comfy I forgot I was wearing them," said Roll, "I mean. I love being barefooted. It's who I am, but really do love the shoes you sell here. I'll definitely be back and next time it rains. I'll be wearing these pumps for sure."
"That's all a guy like me can ask for," said Kicks, "and thank for you the support."
"Can we be friends?" she asked.
"We already are," said Kicks, "and FYI, just showing up today earned it. Not buying my wares, mate." Roll smiled and bid him thanks and good bye as she and Sable left the shop. They were about to head inside to the Able Sisters when Sable stopped her.
"Roll, wait a minute," she said firmly and held her hands.
"What's wrong?" Roll asked curiously. Sable gave her a concerned look.
"What happened in there?" Sable asked, "That outburst?" Roll said nothing and just looked away.
"Roll, please tell me," said Sable, "what happened?" Roll just looked at her sadly.
"I'm good enough," Roll replied meekly, "I deserve nice things...right?" Sable just gave her a serious look and then it melted into a smile.
"Of course you do," said Sable, "And I see I am not the only one who gets that nagging little voice in the back of their head."
"Little voice?" Roll asked.
"That tiny little voice that tries to tear you down," said Sable. Roll then gave her a very sad look.
"Oh," was all Roll could say. Sable just smiled.
"It will go away in time," she answered, "just gotta believe in yourself a little more. I know that's what I need to do."
"Well thank you for believing in me," said Roll, "Shall we head inside?" Sable nodded as she let the blonde girl enter first and she went inside right after. When she walked into she found Labelle standing where Mabel would be and Mabel was hard at work at the digital sewing machine. She turned around when she heard the door.
"Oh hey there sis," said Mabel, "I took the liberty of doing some of your work since you were busy with Roll. I hope it helped." Sable walked over to examine the work Mabel had done. She was shocked! Not only did Mabel do the patterns perfectly, but she had done more of them in half a day than the elder hedgehog could ever do.
"Mabel, you've not only done a great job, but you've put me ahead of schedule!" said Sable, "I guess I should have asked you for your help alot sooner huh?"
"Well, you live and learn sis," said Mabel, "I'll admit I was a little nervous about doing both, but thanks to Labelle, I've managed just fine."
"That's true," said Labelle, "I've still kept my quota despite the extra selling space."
"Though she did break a heel from all the walking back and forth," Mabel remarked.
"MABEL!" she snapped. Roll and Sable laughed.
"You're lucky you've got such a wonderful family," said Roll, "They were able to fill in for you so you didn't fall behind helping me. I wish I had that same support right now with all the grumbling around town."
"What is up with all of that anyway?" Mabel asked curiously, "Purrl and Whitney came in here literally shunning each other and then they ripped one of the tees we had for sale in half fighting over who was gonna buy it."
"Did you collect compensation?" Sable asked. Under the circumstances, why shouldn't they imply the old rule: you break it, you buy it.
"I did...but they were still fighting and wouldn't stop," said Mabel, "I had to ask them to leave...and they were still going at it with each other!"
"Oh boy," said Roll with a loud groan, "this is all my fault!"
"How?" Mabel and Labelle asked her at once.
"I got my town development permit yesterday," Roll explained, "and when I was getting public works projects requests, the villagers started fighting with each other over which project was better. At first the fights were just between two villagers, but then the fights began to intertwine. There was even a fist fight between a group of four. I tried to stop it but I...I got beaned in the left eye."
"Ouch!" said Mabel and Labelle together.
"And she still had the black eye when I got there this morning," said Sable, "for a girl who was never bullied, she was pretty terrified because of it. She was hiding under her bed when I found her."
"That had nothing to do with it," Roll retorted, though she was partially lying, "I thought someone had broken into my house and I got scared! I had forgotten I gave you guys a spare key!" Sable knew she was lying but Mabel and Labelle believed her.
"Well I'm sure things will settle in time," said Labelle, "fights like these never truly tear villagers apart, they only make those bonds stronger."
"Are you sure?" said Roll.
"Positive," said Labelle, "Look at me and Sable, we're practically BFFs! The complete meal!"
"What about me?" Mabel complained.
"Eh...you're the squeaky play toy that comes with the meal," said Sable and the two elder sisters both laughed. Mabel just pouted as Roll snickered and then laughed. Now she was feeling a little bit better about things in town.
But it didn't last for long.
As the day continued on, Roll was given either a cold shoulder or the villagers would grumble and snarl at each other whenever they were in eye range. Roll felt completely helpless but tried her best to continue her work as she continued to do her work and earn the bells she needed for the next expansion, which was going to be maxing out the second floor. At first Roll didn't mind the peace and quiet, but by the end of the day she had to admit that she felt lonely. Since everyone was so mad at each other, they weren't paying any attention to her. Even Bunnie and Rosie were tuning her out. A few days of the same cold shoulder began to take effect on Roll as she grew more and more depressed.
After five days had passed, even Isabelle was starting to get frustrated and irritated. Even she was noticing that Roll was becoming more and more glum. At first she thought it was due to the pressure of having to choose a public works project, but soon she got word about what had happened in regards to the public works recommendations and the fact that Roll got hurt trying to break up a fight. She had given the same advice to Roll as Sable: Just to stick with your routine and things would blow over. Unfortunately time didn't seem to be healing any wounds and even Isabelle could feel the tension whenever she walked out of her office to get some fresh air. Every time Isabelle looking around the town, she could still see villagers grumbling and scoffing at each other. Some of them even giving the shi-tzu attitude and cold shoulder. Isabelle had had enough.
"All this grumbling is causing a bad atmosphere in the town," said Isabelle annoyed, "This used to be such a happy place and now is just a battle keg just ready to blow!" It was at the time Roll came walking by, her hair now back into her pigtails but the wave in it was still visible and her overalls dress and hat. She had heard Isabelle and looked at her devastated before she slumped to her knees.
"I told you I couldn't be a mayor!" Roll shouted, "I wish I had never gotten a development permit! I ruined everything just trying to build one stupid project!" Roll began to sob as she lowered her head and sat on her knees in defeat. Isabelle just watched her for a moment before walking over to her and getting her to her feet, causing the blonde's girl's crying to stop.
"Come on," said Isabelle.
"Where...where are we..."
"We're gonna nip this in the bud right now!" said Isabelle with determination.
"How?" said Roll, "No one will listen to me! I've been shut down!" Isabelle froze, made a one eighty, and looked at her sternly, making Roll flinch.
"No mayor I trained is going to let a town do that to her!" said Isabelle angrily, "I won't let them keep doing this to you. You need to learn to stick up for yourself and I know a way to get everyone to listen!"
"But I'm not good with speeches!" Roll protested.
"You'll be okay," said Isabelle, "I just want you to trust me."
"But..."
"Trust me, Roll," said Isabelle, "Trust me! Please...trust me. When have I ever steered you wrong?"
"I..."
"That pitfall incident doesn't count!"
"I wasn't going to bring that up!" Roll snapped but then shyly added, "but...no you've never steered me wrong. But I think you overestimate me."
"No...I believe in you," said Isabelle, "Now come on. I'm not gonna let you be shut down anymore. You need to speak your mind and I know how, but you need to trust me. Can you do that for me?" Roll was very hesitant but then conceded with a timid nod. Isabelle then smiled before she took Roll's hand and then pulled out a mega phone.
"ATTENTION ALL VILLAGERS!" said Isabelle, "I NEED EVERYONE TO REPORT TO THE EVENT PLAZA FOR AN IMPORTANT MEETING! AND EVERYONE WHO LIVES IN THIS TOWN NEEDS TO BE THERE. ONLY REESE AND CYRUS ARE EXEMPT!" Isabelle then put the megaphone away and then pulled Roll over the event plaza. When they got there the rest of the villagers arrived one by one. They were looking really glum, irritated by default, and they were glaring at one another as they arrived at the plaza.
"What is this all about, snappy?" said Whitney annoyed, "I have no interest in being here with these...umm...villagers here!"
"Yeah, we've got better things to do than to be surround by the likes of them, cha-chomp!" Fang added.
"The feeling is mutual old man!" Rosie and Bunnie shouted together.
"Hey that's my line!" they shouted back at each other.
"Why you-"
Everyone began to argue with each other once again. That was the last straw for Roll.
"Would everyone just...SHUT UP!" Roll snapped angrily and loudly, That got everyone to stop yelling and look at her.
"Now listen up everyone. I've had it up to here with all this attitude and negativity in my town and this is going to stop right now!"
"You can't tell me what to do, kitten," Purrl protested, "You may be the mayor, but I'm older than you for crying out loud!"
"Then why aren't you in the museum?" Margie snapped.
"Yeah with the ancient relics?" Lolly added.
"Quit stealing my moment!" Margie yelled.
"Quit stealing mine!" Lolly shot back.
"ENOUGH!" Roll screamed in a high shriek and they all stopped talking. Roll panted heavily as she tried to not only calm herself down, but also prevent herself from crying. She didn't want to cry. She was tired of crying. She was tired of being shunted. She was tired of all the grumbling.
She had enough.
"That's...enough..." Roll repeated but this time with anger and frustration in her tone, "This grumbling is getting beyond ridiculous! I am sick and tired of walking out of my house and feeling like this town is gonna explode into a turf war, which would destroy everything that I've done to get this town ready for development. In fact, that is ultimately what this whole grumbling is about! It's all about town development!" It didn't take long before the glares soften and guilt soon replaced the bitterness that had developed in each of the twelve villager's hearts.
"I was so excited to get my town development permit!" said Roll, "I was so excited to finally make this town into something more than just nature friendly, but a town that we all could be proud of. I wanted my first project to be something very special and I was more than happy to take all your suggestions into consideration. Yet I didn't expect you guys to fight over which project I could chose. You should have seen the way you guys were fighting each other. You were all behaving like children who were pouting cause they couldn't have things their way! You realize how pathetic that sounds? I can tell by your faces that the fact that I'm the one having to scold you about this is really making a dent in your dignities right now and it should! You guys are supposed to be practically adults in most respects. I'm eleven years old and yet I'm the mature one right now!" If the villagers didn't feel bad enough about the situation, what Roll had to say made them feel worse. Lolly and Margie, as said before, were the most apologetic and were already crying as she continued to speak.
"This is more than just a town," said Roll, her eyes tears and voice cracking, "we are a family. I don't want this public works project tearing that family apart and making you guys hate each other. Unless you can seriously tell me that you enjoy scoffing and hating those who you called your best friends, brothers/sisters, even family." The villagers just looked at each other sadly. This time no more glares were exchanged, but rather sad looks. Roll noticed Rosie and Bunnie in particular were already crying as they just stood a few feet from each other.
"I'm speaking to you because I am tired of seeing the people that I care being so cold and rude to one another," said Roll, now crying, "because I have grown to care about all of you and I really want to be a part of that."
"You are a part of that, kitten!" said Purrl in shock and sadness.
"If we gave you the impression that we didn't care that we are very sorry, cha-chomp!" Fang added, "I guess...you are right. We did get a little silly about our project ideas and we got jealous that other villager's project suggestions would be picked over ours."
"Yeah, that is true, silly," Rosie croaked, "I did think because I'm...I mean we...Bunnie and I...were your best friends that our ideas would have a priority."
"That wasn't right, tee hee," Bunnie sobbed, "and...well...I'M SO SORRY FOR THE OTHER DAY!" Bunnie slumped to her knees. While some of the villagers looked at her puzzled, Margie and Katt just lowered their heads in shame. Margie was already crying and even Katt felt her eyes water. She tried to scoff to herself and remove them, but the guilt in her heart stopped her and all she could do was look away.
"What...happened, alrighty?" said Benjamin asked curiously.
"Four of us got into a fist fight and...well...Roll tried to break us up," Rosie explained shakily, "She got punched...in the left eye."
"We did even care to stop fighting after she got hit!" Margie sobbed.
"AND I WAS THE ONE TO SLUG HER AND ITS BEEN KILLING ME EVER SINCE!" Bunnie wailed loudly. Roll couldn't take seeing Bunnie so unraveled and approached her gently. She then knelt beside her and hugged her.
"Bunnie its okay," said Roll, trying to calm her down, but the rabbit roughly pulled away.
"How can you even say that, tee hee," she croaked, "I could see the emptiness in your eyes. You still don't think you're special or that you're important!"
"But that has nothing to do with you, Bunnie," said Roll, "It's just something that I need to work on. My point is that I don't want my first public works project to ruin this family or my friendship with all of you. If choosing a project is going to cause some of you to dislike me, than I chose not to build one at all!"
"But we were hoping that you would develop the town, it'sa me!" Alfonso retorted.
"I know we've been a little selfish lately, alrighty," Benjamin added, "but we would never hate you for not picking our projects!"
"Maybe a little disappointed, purity," Katt put in, finally feeling like she wasn't going to crumble or cry, "but I wouldn't go so far as to say that we would hate you! We could never hate you!"
"We never meant to put so much pressure on you about all of this, snappy," said Whitney quietly.
"We never wanted you to feel obligated to have to chose our projects," said Fang, "Even if you never pick a project we suggest to build, we wouldn't hate you for it. And we would still be glad you were willing to listen to our suggestions, cha-chomp!"
"We've all acted inappropriately over the last few days and it's clearly upset you, sulky," said Marshal.
"We are all very sorry," said Rudy, "I guess we did get caught up in the moment, mush. I'll admit. I do sometimes get a bit over competitive."
"But that doesn't excuse our behavior towards you or each other, kitten," said Purrl, "I know better and yet even someone my age is still prone to getting jealous. I'm in disgrace."
"Not really Purrl," said Margie, "We've all made our mistakes, but I'm not beneath saying that I was wrong and that I am very sorry to everyone!"
"Same here!"
"Me too"
"Me three!"
"Me four!"
"Me five!"
"Yeah, I don't want to fight anymore! I want to be friends again!" The next few minutes involved a few more tears as apologies and hugs were exchanged between the twelve villagers. Soon everyone was smiling and chatting with each other again as they had done before. Roll smiled as she wiped her eyes of her own tears and Isabelle gave her a gentle hand squeeze.
"See Roll?" said Isabelle, "it pays to speak up about your problems." Roll nodded in agreement. She did feel good about speaking up for herself and by doing so, she was able to get rid of the tension that had plagued the town a few days ago. Roll was when surprised when both Rosie and Bunnie hugged her tightly together.
"We're sorry," they said sweetly. Roll smiled and hugged them back. Soon the other villagers gave her each an apology as well.
"Well I'm glad all that is settled," said Roll once the hugging and apologies had finished.
"You're still going to build a public works project right, mush?" Rudy asked. Roll just sighed loudly.
"I don't know..."
"Roll, just pick whatever comes from the heart, bonbon," said Lolly, "We will support your choice and help you fund it as well."
"They can do that?" Roll asked, looking at Isabelle.
"Of course they can," said Isabelle, "You won't have to raise the funds for public works projects all by yourself Roll. The funds used for paying off the costs for project are all done by donations. I'll show you how that happens once we get an actual project set up."
"Alright," said Roll, "Since everything is taken care of here. Do you mind if I take another look at the project listed? Maybe I can find something now that I don't have to worry about being hated for my choice."
"Roll, no one is gonna hate you," said Isabelle, "I have complete faith that the first project here will be the best thing that this town needs. So just relax and you can take a look at the list again once we get back to Town Hall, okay?" Roll smiled as she bid the rest of the village goodbye and they all waved until Roll was out of sight.
Roll spent the rest of the day looking at the list of projects which now had twice as many projects on the list due to the villager's requests. She still felt a bit overwhelmed, but rather than it being due to fear, it was mostly due to the fact that she felt there were alot of projects that she felt would make a good first public works project. By the time it was just past midnight, Isabelle had finished with her own work. She had been well aware that Roll had never left her desk.
"Well it's time for me to get some sleep," said Isabelle, "I better make sure Roll gets home safely since it's so late." Isabelle headed towards the mayor's desk and saw that Roll's sunhat was hanging over her face. Isabelle looked concerned until she lifted the hat and saw that Roll had fallen asleep at her desk and the touch pad had pretty much shut down due to its battery life being drained. Isabelle chuckled to herself as she gently rubbed Roll's back to wake her up.
"Roll? Roll..." she said gently. The girl shifted slowly as she lifted her head with sleepy eyes.
"Time to head home," she said gently.
"No...project...gotta...make a...a...choice," said Roll sleepy and then her head leaned forward as she began to fall back asleep. Isabelle just chuckled and sighed to herself as she gently lifted Roll to feet so they could leave. Then Isabelle remembered she had forgotten her purse and had Roll take a seat on the reception seats just near the door. Within the thirty seconds it took Isabelle to grab her green purse and put it around her shoulders, she found that Roll had laid down on the two seats and had fallen asleep again. Isabelle just smirked as she tried to wake her up again.
"Roll, Roll," said Isabelle, but her efforts were no good. Roll was fast asleep and wasn't not going to budge. Isabelle just sighed in defeat, but she also had a soft smile on her face.
"Well, I kind of wanted to keep working anyway," said Isabelle. The shi-tzu had made a promise to Roll that she wouldn't work too late at night and that she would get plenty of rest and sleep. Unfortunately, Isabelle was only going home two or three times a week and was actually working late into the night and just sleeping in her secretary chair. Tonight would have been one of the nights she would have gone home, but it looks like that wouldn't be the case.
"At least I've got a cover up story if she asks why I'm still here," said Isabelle, "Hopefully once she's up, I can still make a fast trip home for a shower and a change of clothes." The shi-tzu then put her purse down, grabbed a spare blanket to cover the girl, and then continue her work. However, seeing Roll made her feel guilty so she put her work away and just reclined in her chair and went to sleep.
It was past seven in the morning when Isabelle finally stirred from her secretary chair. She woke with a start once she saw the clock and fell out of her chair. She then noticed that the spot Roll had fallen sleep at was empty.
"I'm back here," said a rather annoyed voice. Isabelle got back on her feet and noticed that Roll was looking at the touch pad once more. Isabelle just stayed put before making her ways toward the young mayor. Roll greet her with a glare.
"I heard you last night," she remarked, clearly upset. Isabelle just sighed to herself.
"Sorry," said Isabelle, "I...well..."
"If you promise to take your time showering, getting dressed, eating and all that," said Roll, "I'll let you back in at noon. That should give you plenty of time to clean up, rest, and think about not lying to me anymore." Isabelle just looked at her sadly.
"I'm really sorry," said Isabelle, "I'll go change into a clean uniform and rest at home till then. My only defense is that I wanted to make your job easier." Roll nodded.
"I just don't want you to burn yourself out," said Roll quietly, "Now please take the morning off and then when you come back. I should have a decision made on a project." Isabelle smiled and gave her a nod before making her leave. The extra rest did Isabelle some good and she even took a nap after her shower to relax. She arrived right at noon where Roll was waiting outside the town hall for her.
"You could have come late," said Roll, now smiling.
"Hey, I was worried about you," said Isabelle in her defense, "did you finally come up with a project?" Roll nodded.
"I really feel in my heart that this particular project will be a great benefit to the town," said Roll. She quietly whispered the project to Isabelle, who smiled excitedly once she heard what her decision was.
"That would be a perfect first public works project!" said Isabelle, "Come on. Show me where you would like to build it!" Roll nodded as she took Isabelle by the hand to lead her to the location. Since Roll had to stand at exactly the right spot to set up the construction posts. It took a few tries before Roll got the project set up at just the right location she wanted. Once the area was fenced in, Roll noticed a strange looking totem pole like thing was placed in front of the fenced area.
"This little guy is named Lloid," Isabelle explained, "He will be the one who will handle collecting all the donations for the project. It shouldn't take too long to fund the project since this one only costs 59,800 bells."
"True," said Roll, "but I could just pay this off by myself you know."
"Don't," said Isabelle, "Give it day and see who helps to contribute to the project and then if there's still bells left, then you can pay the difference. Trust me, this village won't let you have to take care of the funding by yourself."
"Even if I wanted to?" Roll asked.
"Roll, just wait," said Isabelle gently but firmly. Roll just conceded and then went to do her dailies. Isabelle just watched her disappear before heading back to work. Since the tension was gone, Roll had no problem finding her friends and spending the day with them once her dailies were finished so that helped pass the time and soon the day was over. But before going to bed, Roll decided to go check on the public works sight.
"Good evening, Lloid," said Roll.
"Good evening Mayor Roll," said the gyroid, "if you are here to contribute for the public works project. I'm pleased to tell you that the funds for the project have been paid in full." Roll went agape at the news.
"Really?" said Roll, "the project is fully funded?"
"Indeed," said Lloid, "Construction will be done in the morning!" Roll just smiled excitedly and cheered for joy. Not only was her project funded, but it would be finished by tomorrow. Her very first public works project was now complete.
The campsite
The next morning, Roll stood with Isabelle and the rest of the entire village as the shi-tzu cleared her throat.
"Welcome everyone to the dedication ceremony for the town's very first public works project," said Isabelle, "I'm Isabelle and I'll be your host." Everyone cheered.
"Thank you, you're too kind," said Isabelle with a blush, "and now we will have a very short speech from our own mayor!" Roll just smiled shyly.
"We did it everyone!" she shouted happily. The crowd cheerful happily for her and gave her a rousing applause. Isabelle waited for the cheers to settle before continuing.
"You have a way with words," said Isabelle with a giggle, "Now it's time for everyone to pull out that item I passed out earlier!" Everyone, including Roll, pulled out a party popper.
"Now to complete the ceremony and to say thank you to everyone who made this possible," said Isabelle, "READY. SET. POP!" Roll launched her popper first and then the rest followed before the blonde girl was showered with both confetti and applause. Roll was very pleased.
Her first public works project was a huge success.
FYI: The four girl fight only involved arm wrestling and fist punches. Nothing further than that. This is a family fanfiction.
Roll's sleeveless nightgown is similar to the nurses outfit but with no sleeves. Plus the leggings in game appear to be about shin length, instead of knee or cropped.
Don't we all wish villagers would contribute that much to project costs?
Now that's four story arcs complete. Here's a preview of the next one:
Mr. Grump: Everyone often questions why Marshal always has such a grumpy face. Yet no one has had the courage to ask him. Is he naturally grumpy all the time or could there be more to his face than people think?
Find out...next time!