Oh boy, the Great Compromise
Lauren's P.O.V.:
It's been crazy over the last few days since we got some more cold temps in Brooklyn. Sean, Keith and I were discussing plans for Hector's surprise birthday party while walking through the neighborhood and listening to music as well. "So if I understand so Lauren, the plan is not to mention the party but after we shoot the video, distract him while you guys set up for the party," Keith clarified. "Yep. Pretty much the deal my friend. Honestly he's not supposed to know so, try your best to keep it secret," I told Keith. "Okay then. I'll go with that," he smiled. "Yo Lauren, Sean," a voice called out to us. We turned to see Will, Sean and I's classmate came over to us. "Hey man," Sean greeted. "Hey Will, what are you doing out," I asked honestly. "On my way to the community center to meet up with some friends besides, it's freezing out," he said shivering for just a second. "Yeah you got that right," Keith agreed.
"Hey Keith didn't see you there dude. What are you guys doing out and about," he asked us. "Going over plans for Hector's surprise birthday party," Sean smiled. "Did you tell him, we want to be in the video," Will asked. "Yep, he knows so your set," I grinned. "Perfect. Now I just remembered the end of school flashmob is in the summer so we," Will started to recall. "Don't worry dude. We'll get practice in when the time comes okay," I told him. "Will do Lauren. I got to run. I'm late," Will panicked before running over to the center. "See ya dude," we said to him as he left. "Man, what is with everybody today," I asked as we walked down the street.
"Yeah and more importantly why does the street say Francine's Way," Keith asked. "Huh," we asked looking at the sign and standing near the post was Francine. "Francine's at it again," I muttered to Sean. "Yeah more like planning something that's for sure. Come on," Sean said as we walked over. We got closer to Francine and she was giddy with joy at the changing of the street. "Francine," I called out to her and she turned facing us. "Oh hey guys, didn't see you there. Heard the news they changed the street after me," she said to us. "Yeah drop the nice act girl besides, you can't get it pass the dual power of Lauren and Sean," Sean smiled. "And we all saw you do it seconds ago. You know that's against the law right," I asked. "What law," she said.
"The law here in Brooklyn which states you can't change the name of the street without permission from the government," I told her. "Oh that law? I thought they got rid of it, WHO CARES ABOUT THE LAW," Francine yelled. "Not so loud girl. That's hurts our ears," Sean said shaking it out. "Look Electric Company, mother says I deserve my name to be placed on the street," she said defending her actions. "Well we thought it was another way for you to get Hector's attention again," Sean smirked. "Sean," I scolded. "What," he asked. "Hector's here? Where is he? Do I look okay," she said panicking. "No, no, and no. Now can you just change the street name back so that way we all don't get in trouble," I asked her. "I wish I could, but I can't. It's just a boring name 153rd Street is so bland," she told us.
"Please it's not bland. It's helping our neighbors keep track of where they live. Would they really want to see a street named after you," Keith asked. "I just hate counting all those streets and now, I will get my way so scurry off," she told us and shooing away. "No you won't get away with this so no way," Keith said making a wordball and changing it. "Way," Francine argued. "Uh guys, shouldn't we do this somewhere else, I have a bad feeling about this," I said concerned. "Not now Lauren. Trying to defend the town here," Keith said still changing it. "Way," Francine told him. "No way," they argued. Sean and I looked over to see Mrs. Quiggly, head of traffic parking her car. We both looked at each other and realized what would happen. "Oh no," we realized. "We got to help her," I said to Sean as we got near Mrs. Quiggly's car. "Mrs. Quiggly," I called. She looked from her mirror to see us. "Oh Lauren, Sean what a surprise," she told us with a grin. "Do us a favor be careful. Keith and Francine are changing the name of the street and your about to hit someone else's car," Sean told her. "No I don't think so guys I'm fine. I got it safely under control but we'll talk later okay," she said to us. "Look out," Sean and I shouted just in time before she got near trash cans. She looked at us with a shocked look.
"Then again I didn't. Sorry about not hearing the warning guys, thanks for letting me know," she told us. "Your welcome," we replied with a sigh of relief. "So why did I almost crash my car again," she asked us getting out. "Francine changed the name of the street to Francine's Way instead of 153rd Street," I told her. "And Keith was doing his best to change it back yet Francine changed it again," Sean added as well just a little hesitant as I was. I knew this was bad but figured she knew. "Oh. Do you know where they are," she said to us honestly. "Duck," Sean called out as a wordball headed our way and we ducked just in time. "I think I found them. Thanks guys," she said before walking over to them.
"Pfew that was close," I breathed. "Yeah. Now I can imagine how much trouble Francine is going to get," Sean said. "Sean I hate to be the bearer of bad news but this," I started to tell him. "WHAT IS THE MEANING OF THIS YOU TWO," she said scolding Keith and Francine. "Oh boy. Also adds with Keith," we realized before heading over to the others. "Mrs. Quiggly are you okay, you seem angry," Keith asked. "Angry, more like perturbed young man. Look at what you kiddies did to my car," she said showing them. "Uh we are not kids," Francine started to say. "Quiet," she snapped at Francine. "Please Mrs. Quiggly, I can explain everything," Keith told her. "I'm in no mood for an explanation right now only justice. You both will be hearing from me later today, so good day," she said before leaving.
Sean's P.O.V.:
"This would have not have happened, if you let me have my way Keith," Francine accused him. "Well excuse me, I'm not the one that changed the street name without realizing the consequences and it was your idea," Keith argued. "Just stay out of it, okay," she told him before running away. "Well, that went well," I told Lauren. "Yeah and I think the gang is going to find out sooner rather than," she started to say. "HEY YOU GUYS," Keith interrupted. "Later," I finished for her before we took off running to the diner to catch up with the others.
(At the diner)
Hector's P.O.V.:
I was enjoying a nice bowl of soup with Jess as we discussed more plans for the video shoot which I hope would go well. Shock, Mario, Leo, PJ and Lisa along with Jess joined in on the conversation discussing little elements to it before we heard the door open to see Keith, Lauren and Sean coming in. "I wish I had the chance to explain," Keith told them. "You should have but she was in the mood for justice and this was Francine's fault not yours," Lauren told him. Sean looked at her. "I mean his too yet it wouldn't happen if she kept the way it was," Lauren told Sean as we watched them discuss. "Yeah now she's going to tell everyone in the neighborhood that I am a big jerk and caused this problem," he said not happy sitting down. "Your not a big jerk dude besides you were doing the right thing," Sean told him. "Try telling Mrs. Quiggly that," Lauren muttered. "Hey not to intrude here, but I will anyway since I'm big brother what's going on," I asked.
"Well Francine changed the name of 153rd Street," Lauren explained. "She did what," everyone asked. "Yeah I know against the law. Anyway, Keith changed it to normal but Francine kept changing while the two were arguing and sort of not crashed Mrs. Quiggly's car thanks to Lauren and I noticing," Sean added. "He did not," I gasped. "Keith Jamel," Leo scolded. "Dad, it was her fault she started it not me," Keith defended. "I know but it's on your part too. There's always two sides to every story," Leo told us. "He's right you know," Lauren and Sean agreed. "I see what you mean dad but I was defending the neighborhood cause honestly I didn't want this to go wrong," Keith told us. "Yeah but on the same token Keith, you did take it to an extreme level and she almost crashed the car. If it weren't for Sean and I to warn her, you would be in a more amount of trouble," Lauren pointed out.
"Lauren's right. If she and Sean weren't there, you guys would definitely be in trouble and honestly I agree with Lauren on this," Jess added. "But, somebody has to be on my side," Keith said surprised. "Keith, we are on your side but there's two sides to every story. If Mrs. Quiggly heard both sides, she can come up with a resolution so that way it won't happen again," I explained. "You mean like a compromise," PJ asked. "Yeah that's it. A compromise," I agreed.
Keith's P.O.V.:
"Okay how do we do that," I asked. "Well I think we need to go to Mrs. Quiggly and tell her the truth it was Francine and part of it was on you so you can take responsibility," Lisa told him. "Okay, if you guys say so, I'll do that. Lauren, Sean want to come," I asked. "You know were coming dude, besides we saw it and we can add in some details that were missed," Sean smiled. "Okay," I smiled. "Keith before I forget, your going to be grounded for a day no electronics," Leo told him. "Sure thing dad," I replied as we left the diner and took the subway to Mrs. Quiggly's office. I feel so nervous about telling her the truth that I don't know if she'll believe me. I shuddered at the thought of being known as a jerk from now on as we walked through town over to city hall. Yet, the cold also got me too. I thought of Lauren and Sean as I heard them talk about their friendship with Danny.
Lauren's P.O.V.:
"Honestly Sean, the others will have to know sooner rather than later," I told him. "About Danny yeah. He's a sweet guy and a good friend but you don't want them to separate us do you," he asked. "No but if it's the case, it's a risk I'm willing to take," I admitted. "You would take the risk Lauren," Keith asked. "I would. Even if it means, friendship breaks. That was almost the case with Ariana and Jeanette," I recalled. "Who," he wondered. "Two of Lauren's former best friends. They were pretty much thick as thieves until one day they were arguing over something and you told me it might have been a pop star," Sean said recalling the story. "I think it was something else, anyway they argued a lot, yet Matt, CJ and I were tired of hearing them argue. So, we stopped them and said if they wouldn't stop we couldn't be friends," I answered.
"So what happened then," Keith questioned. "They stopped knowing we would take the risk to break the friendship and since then they never had an argument again," I concluded. "Wow. I never realized it could almost break friendships," he realized. "Yeah part of it two, can also open more things between our two groups, so I think its best you tell Ms. Quiggly the truth," I advised Keith as we stepped inside city hall. "Directions to Ms. Quiggly please," I asked and the person showed us on the map. "Thanks," we said walking up the steps. "I'm still worried on telling her guys," he said to us. "No need to worry, once she hears the true side of things, you'll be fine but your dad did ground you otherwise things will be fine," Sean assured him as we walked up to her office and we could hear voices through the closed door.
"And Keith has always done something like this," a voice sounded to familiar to Sean and I. Annie Scrambler. "Or the opposite," I said to them as they heard and were shocked. "How can she say this about me? I'm not a Prankster," Keith whispered. "I know. But that went far too," Sean added. "Shh. I'm hearing more," I said leaning up against the door. "And don't get us started about Lisa Ms. Quiggly," I heard Francine talk about Lisa and how perfect and honestly I'm going to say this dumb blonde she is. I backed away from the door after hearing it. "Well," Keith asked. "She said Lisa is a dumb blonde," I told them. "What," they whispered yelled. "Yes," I admitted. The door opened and good thing I backed out in time before it crunched me. "She's all warmed up for you. Enjoy trouble," Francine smirked. "Oh we won't but you will," Keith muttered as she and Annie walked down the steps.
Sean's P.O.V:
"Thank you again Ms. Quiggly for taking time to speak with me. I know your still perturbed about the car and I'm sorry," Keith told her. "I'm still perturbed about it more now than I was at the beginning," she replied honestly. "Ms. Quiggly, if I may with all due respect Sean and I saw what happened and it was just an honest mistake, he was fixing a sign because he knew it would be against the law to change the street sign without permission from the government," Lauren told her. "Yes in honesty, it was a simple mistake and I take full responsibility for my actions," Keith told her. "Look guys, I appreciate all the work you do here in Brooklyn and I'm glad you brought witnesses as well but I'm more concerned about your powers," she admitted to us. "What do you mean their powers," I asked.
"What I mean is, I fear they maybe causing more trouble than they're worth in all honesty," she replied.
Lauren's P.O.V.:
"So what your saying is their powers are the ones at fault, not them," I asked confused. "No, not that way I mean the powers are useful but around traffic is risky," she told us. "But in honesty, we have to use our powers," Keith told her. Sean and I cleared our throats. "I mean Lisa and I do but not Lauren and Sean. They saw what happened and it was on instinct I had to do this," he explained. "Yeah and it's their job to stop the pranksters from causing mayhem," I agreed. "I understand but if the pranksters weren't allowed to use their powers for good, shouldn't you stop using yours for bad purposes," she asked us. "Wait, are you saying they use their powers for bad," I asked slowly.
"No, I mean Francine and Annie told me they use theirs's for good and he uses his for bad," she replied. I gasped and so did Sean with the others. I can't believe they would go far as accusing us of being the bad guys. "Okay, I'm just going to ask this but isn't this going a little extreme besides it was just a street name that almost crashed the car, Sean and I warned you in advance, and it was just a mistake, so can we just let this go and call it a day," I asked her. "Lauren's right. The Pranksters are the problem in all honesty," Sean agreed. "Were the problem," we heard them shout behind us and threw open the door. "It's the honest truth," Keith told them. "Were not the problem, you are," Annie accused them.
"Excuse me? Were the problem," I asked. "Ms. Quiggly please don't listen to them they're lying. I've been true all along," Francine pleaded. "Uh no you haven't. Besides we told the truth and you guys mixed it up," Sean smirked. "Well I'm not the one who said Lisa is dumb," Annie shot back. "Come on Sean, let's back out. I have a feeling this is going to blow," I told him. The four started to argue and bicker about who was right as we watched. I guess the flood gates would open after that for sure. "Should we intervene," he asked after a few minutes. "We should," I said walking over to Mrs. Quiggly. "May I," I asked Ms. Quiggly. "I got this Lauren. But thank you," she told me before I backed away.
"SILENCE ALL OF YOU," she shouted and they stared at her. Man, who knew she could yell. "Enough of the bickering, all of you. I just had enough of this and honestly its all you do," she told them. "But Ms. Quiggly we," they started to say. "No complaining. Tomorrow, a letter from my office will be mailed to you and I advise honestly to check the mailboxes, good day," she told them. They soon walked out as Sean and I followed. "Lauren, Sean," she called to us. "Yeah," we asked turning around. "Thanks for trying," she told us. "Our pleasure," we smiled before walking down the steps and back out into Brooklyn before getting on the subway. "Well that went neat," Keith muttered. "Keith, you were doing the right thing. It's the Pranksters that did this and now look, you got the Electric Company in trouble not the honorary members," Sean told him. "Sean I know but it's what happened and your going to have to suffer the consequences," I told Keith as we rode back feeling this tension on the ride that any conversation we had was overtook by the situation.
(Back at the diner)
Jess' P.O.V.:
"Lauren, Sean, and Keith had been gone for a while. Hope the meeting went well with Ms. Quiggly," I said looking out the window for the three. "I would bet yes and hopefully he is off the hook," Lisa smiled. Everyone looked at her. "Okay not off the hook and getting punished but it was just a street sign not like changing the town that's different," she corrected. "True but Brooklyn is known for some good laws so we have to keep that in token as well," Hector added. "Yeah. Oh here they come," Mario said seeing them come into the diner. "So how did it go," I asked. "Ask Keith," Lauren told us. "Lauren," Sean scolded. "I'm sorry. It's just that it did go well but," Lauren said.
"But what," Hector asked. "Francine and Annie accuse you guys of being the problem while they are good," Keith admitted. "What," they asked surprised. "Yeah. Sean and I tried our best to intervene and we explained everything but she's more concerned about your powers," Lauren told us. "Ms. Quiggly is," Shock asked. "Yeah she told us that your powers might be causing more trouble than good especially around traffic because that's where it gets risky," she explained. "Did you tell her that the group needs to use their powers," Mario asked. "Yeah we did but when we explained the Pranksters were the issue not us, they barged in and argued," Sean added. "In the end, she said a letter from her office will come in the mail tomorrow so, guess you have to check the mailbox," she told us. "Oh nice," I groaned.
Lauren's P.O.V.:
"Well that's great," everyone groaned. "Hold on, no whining yet, why don't you wait for the letter and we'll see what happens," Sean suggested. "Good idea, let's wait till the morning," they agreed as we hung out at the diner for a little bit more before we headed back to our houses in order to a sleep and b get set for tomorrow. Sean and I were walking down the street near the apartment when we heard a voice calling for us. "Lauren, Sean," a voice called. We turned to see Danny Rebus calling us near the steps of our house. "Hey Danny, you heard what happened," I asked. "Heard? Believe me when I say Francine is perturbed about this," he answered honestly. "Yeah the gang is figuring this out to and was honestly saying the right thing," Sean added. "They're stuck to. Man, this day just got shocking," he muttered.
"Hey Danny, I have to tell you something, I think you won't like it," I said to him. "What's that," he wondered. "I told Hector Sean and I are friends with you. I know we promised to keep it secret but, he noticed you waving to us a few days ago," I explained. "I know Lauren, I understand," he said to me. "And you have right to be mad at Sean and I, wait you understand," Sean and I said confused. "I figured as much you would talk to Hector about this. I honestly understand everything and I think this is when we have to tell them the truth," he said to us. "I'm just worried, they're going to break us apart," Sean said expressing concern. "Well, until the gang gets the letter, we'll keep it secret for now but if they do decide after finding out, we are friends and want us not to be that way anymore, it's a risk we'll take," I decided. Sean and Danny agreed to this idea of mine as we said goodbye and went inside our houses. All throughout dinner, I kept thinking of everything that played out today in my mind and just kept silent. I know Keith wouldn't do this but he changed it after Francine did. Honestly, I know things but why this now.
"Lauren, you okay," Hector called to me as I sat on my bed. "Think so Hector," I told him. "Really? You were quiet during dinner. Is it the Danny thing again," he wondered. "No. I guess with everything playing out and the whole argue scenario, I just don't know what to think but maybe some people don't know when to stop pretending," I said in honesty. "What do you mean sis," Hector asked as he came by the door hearing what I said. "I'm not sure Hector, not sure," I admitted. "Okay, I'll see you in the morning," he told me walking away from the door as I got under my covers and soon fell asleep. Hopefully tomorrow will be better, I hope.
(Next morning)
Hector's P.O.V.:
I woke up early and headed down to the basement to get the mail while Lauren and Jess were slowly waking up. I could almost feel this tension in the apartment even when getting the mail that came from yesterday. I soon got the mail from the mailbox and noticed two letters addressed to Jess and I on the top. Guess this is from Ms. Quiggly, I thought walking back up to the apartment. "Letter's here Jess," I told my sister as we both took the envelopes opening the letter that Ms. Quiggly wrote to us.
Lauren's P.O.V.:
"To Hector David Ruiz," Hector started to read as he unfolded the letter. "It has been brought of concern that the use of powers by the Electric Company and Pranksters are growing out of control which is why I write this letter to you," Jess read her portion of the letter. "Therefore, I invite you to a special block association meeting today at 5 o'clock on the context of the use of powers. If the case still stands to use your powers in Brooklyn, all of you must work together and present the case at the meeting. So forth, if failed to do so, the council will have no choice but to hereby forbid the use of powers forever. Please make sure you abide to the requests laid out in front of you. Good day. Signed, Agatha Winifred Quiggly, deputy of traffic," the two read afterwards then looked shocked.
Time to back out, I said scurrying away from the breakfast table just in time to hear Sean knock on the door. I opened just in time to have him race into my home. "Have they read the letter yet," he asked me. "They did," I told him. "Have they reacted," he wondered. "Not yet," I started to say. "NO!," they screamed just as I said not yet. "On second thought, just did," I realized. "This is going to be harder than we thought," Sean told me. "Yeah, I feel bad they need to work together, but it has to work," I told Sean. "Agree but do you think they'll argue a lot," Sean said confused. "I don't know," I answered in honesty looking at my brother as we soon headed to our rooms to get changed. Oh, Sean was already in his clothes before I forget.
I soon changed into mine which was a casual red shirt with my silver camisole, jeans, tan boots etc. I already did my hair and was just thinking about telling everyone that Danny, Sean and I are friends. A knock was soon heard at the door to my room. "Come in," I called. The door opened to reveal my little sister poking in with her lilac shirt on. "Hey, Hector says were all meeting at the diner. You ready," she asked. "I'm dressed and ready," I smiled. "Ready as in oh wait never mind," she thought before going back to her room. I sat on my bed and looked at Sean who read guilt all over my face. "Does she know," Sean asked. "No. Only Hector does. I'm just worried on what other people will think. Are we going to do the right thing and tell them," I asked Sean.
"It's like what you said yesterday Lauren, if it means breaking the friendship, it's a risk we have to take," he told me coming over. "I guess but what's the next thing to do afterwards," I wondered. "The next right thing," he told me. I looked at my friend and smiled. "Lauren, you ready," Hector called. "I am Hector," I replied. Hector came by to my room and saw me sitting on my bed. "Hey. You thinking about," he asked me. "Yeah but we need to tell them, no more keeping secrets except family ones," I decided then and there. "You sure Lauren," he wondered. "You guys need to know the truth like I do," I smiled and soon walked out the door of my room, house then over to the diner.
The rest of the company followed us and were dressed professionally minus the honorary ones in more casual clothing. The pranksters followed behind and there was tension I could see between the groups as we walked into the diner. Everyone tried to smudge in but they bumped into each other and they sat down not before realizing they were supposed to be on opposite sides. "Prankster," Jess grossed and everyone switched instantly. "Much better," they replied in unison. "Okay, has anyone seen Danny by any chance," Lisa asked wondering.
Hector's P.O.V.:
"Oh we have. He's visiting his grandparents for a few days but thanks to Manny will be joining us via video conference," Annie replied as a TV screen with Danny on it approached the row of tables. "Hi guys, morning everyone," he greeted. "Hey Danny, hi Daniel," everyone told him. "Before I forget Granny Rebus sends her greetings," he told us. "Thanks Danny. Now, before we continue any proceedings, I want to say thank you guys again for coming. I know this is short notice but after what happened, we need to come together, so again thanks for coming," I told everyone. "Your welcome," they replied and everyone went back to normal. "Now, there is a reason why were all here. Anyone care to explain," Mario asked.
"Yes because Francine understand," Keith and Francine started to bicker before I rolled my eyes at that moment. "Guys, quit it please. Were all here because we have a meeting with Ms. Quiggly at 5 o'clock on the context we lose our powers," I explained. "Is there a way we can just escape this," Danny asked. "NO," everyone told him. "Okay just thought I ask," he shrugged. "Now with that out of the way, who would like to start things off with a proposal," Jess asked. "I do," Keith said standing up. "Fellow Electric Company members, honorary ones my proposal is this. I suggest our Prankster friends, under certain circumstances can use their powers while helping us do good deeds here in Brooklyn," Keith suggested. "NO," the pranksters yelled and looked at Keith.
"Dude, are you out of your dang mind," Francine asked shocked. "You little man, after all we did trying to get you on our side and you want us to help you," Annie thundered. "Uh Annie was the first part about trying to get Keith to your side," I asked confused. "Nothing," she mumbeled. "That's extreme," Danny said standing up from the TV. "Uh Danny, you're on the screen. Nobody can see you standing up," Sean told him.
"Oh, thanks," he realized before sitting back down. "If I may say with Keith's idea you still get to keep your powers, so it's a win for you guys and us," Lisa said to them. "Actually, I hate to but in here yet I will however, even though it is a win for the Electric Company and for you guys still, it would cause problems with you guys saying when they can use it. Honestly, you have to balance both sides of the scale," PJ pointed out. "PJ brings a good point," I agreed and the others did as well. "Yeah so why don't we scratch that and think of another compromise," Jess intervened. "Um actually Jess, if I may enter the conversation. I would like to say something to both groups," Lauren said to her. "Actually, I do to," Sean said taking her lead. "Lauren, Sean you guys may enter the conversation," I told them. The two came forward and looked at Danny.
Sean's P.O.V.:
Danny looked at us and saw what we were going to do. It was time to tell them the truth. "Guys, the three of us have been keeping something secret from you for a few months now and we have to tell you this in person," Danny told them. "Go on Danny," Francine acknowledged. "What were about to say, is going to shock you guys and if it means otherwise so be it," I continued. "The truth is," Lauren said before taking a deep breath. "Danny, Sean and I are friends not just best friends but good friends," she admitted. "WHAT," Lisa, Jess, Annie, Manny, and Francine gasped minus Hector, Keith, Shock and Mario.
"I know it's surprising but our friendship started after the bug scenario. Look, what we tell you now it's true and if this means that our friendship is ending, we accept the fact. Just know, we can be friends with whoever we want to be not matter what side were on and Danny's a nice guy," Lauren explained before grabbing my shoulder gently as the others absorbed in everything. "Lauren, is that true," Jess asked her. "It is," she told her. "Why keep it secret, you could have told us," Annie wondered. "I know Annie but we were afraid you guys would over react to it. Sorry we should have told you sooner," Danny apologized to her.
"After all this time, one of our members is friends with them," Francine asked slowly. "Yeah," Danny told her. "But, but I don't understand," she mumbled. "There's no need to understand just know the truth okay," Lauren told her. "Okay," she said still surprised. "Alright, I'm going to sidetrack here but Lauren, you did a brave thing sis," Jess smiled. "Thanks but I wish I was braver," she admitted. "Lauren, if you were braver, you would be a lioness by now," Hector grinned. "I know so," she smiled as we walked back to our seats. "Now, with that out of the way, anyone else have an idea for a proposal," Lisa asked. "I do," Annie said standing up.
"My question for all of you is what caused this problem to arise in the first place? Easy, wordballs. So in all honesty, I think my proposal should be word balls are not allowed and if say you guys have any other power like scrambling, drawing, camera etc. we should use those more that way," she said with a smile while the Pranksters applauded. We just sat and stood there stunned. "I was going to say for the record, don't you all use wordballs or at least some of you," Lauren asked.
Lauren's P.O.V.:
"Honestly, that's the way the cookie crumbles Jess and I think wait Annie Scrambler, how could you do that to me and us?! You know we use them all the time," Francine told her. "More like you do and honestly I don't see you creating a proposal. Anyone else want to take a swing at it," Annie sassed as everyone began to talk over one another. I couldn't believe I just saw this unfold right before me. Sean agreed as we looked stunned and watching everyone argue. "Sean, I have to get in there," I told my friend getting up from my chair. "Do what you have to do Lauren," Sean told me as I got in front of the tables and looked at them as they still argued.
"Can you do me a favor guys, cover the ears," I told Mario, Shock and PJ as they covered them. I soon took a deep breath and yelled with all my might, "STOP IT," everyone stopped and soon turned to face me. "Look at you guys. You're arguing like children, when really you should be compromising here. This isn't going to get anywhere if you guys keep it up like this. Either you decide to put away the differences for once and work together or your powers won't be used here forever. It's your choice guys. I can't let things be broken apart like that, now if you will excuse me, Sean and I are going to take a walk," I said calling them out on their actions and soon left the diner with Sean in toe as we walked to the park.
(At the diner)
Hector's P.O.V.:
"Lauren's right. We've been acting childish this way and got nothing done with all our bickering. It's time we take the next steps, put aside the differences and work together like Lauren said," I agreed defending her actions. "Why should we do that," Manny asked. "Because she is our sister and more importantly a compassionate person, standing firm in what she believes in. She's valiant," I answered. "Descended from the Valiant Queen of Narnia, Queen Lucy. Meant to sit on her throne," Jess said as well after me. The Pranksters gasped hearing this revelation not believing they were in the presence of Queen Lucy all this time. Guilt soon swept over their faces and they all agreed with me. If you were here now Jayden, you should have seen the way Lauren did it, I thought to Jayden. I wonder hoe she's doing after giving everyone that big rant. Danny looked shocked. I guess they couldn't believe they were in the presence of a royal all the while. Who can't blame them?
(In the park)
Lauren's P.O.V:
I sat on a bench with Sean as I let the build up tears drain from my eyes while I cried on his jacket as he comforted me. "How you feel Lauren," Sean asked. "I feel bad for them. They should have placed away their differences by now instead of arguing all the time. This never happened when Jayden was around, he told us to compromise but I guess some never take his words to heart only Jess, Hector and I did," I said sniffling in Sean's jacket. "I know Lauren but there is one step you did that helped them," he told me. "What's that," I asked. "The next right thing," he grinned. "What do you mean," I wondered. "Keep showing them the right way to work things and do the next right thing," he advised me. "I know Sean but; how I do show them from here," I asked feeling a sad violin come through the silence of my tears as I started to sing a song.
(Lauren singing)
I felt pain like this before, but not this way. It felt cold, feels empty and now it's numb.
The world has changed, it's lights are gone. Hello darkness, are you ready to get me now?
But still I feel grief, and still it pulls me down, I can't let others fight anymore. I am lost, Lord help me please.
Soon, I hear your voice, yes your voice and you say to me, Lauren. You're not lost, hope is there, show your friends to get to here, and you'll do the next right thing.
(Music break) (Lauren looks around her)
Is there a day beyond this now? Where friends, can agree no matter what? This fight will end, and dreams come true, I want to see it show me that direction. The way to go. Lord, help me rise above the odds, and be more impossible. I'll do the next right thing. Take that step, step again. It is all that I plan to do, the next right thing.
(Standing up and walking back towards the diner)
I won't look that far ahead, I always will, yet sometimes I stumble, but I feel you Lord, and now I see the light! I know now I can do this, show them who I'm meant to be. And do the next right thing, cause with this dawn, I now rise. Though it's clear that things may never happen same way twice, I know now to hear the voice, cause I have made my choice to do the next right thing.
(End music)
I soon smiled breathing it all in as I sang that ballad. Sean is right. I must do the next best thing besides, standing for family and friends. "Sean, your right. It's time I take the next best step," I told my friend. "You bet Lauren. Come on, let's get back to the diner," he said as we started to walk back and I could hear Hector's voice around the corner telling the Pranksters for once just to put aside the differences and act as one. The eight soon applauded and I couldn't help but join in as Sean and I walked back into the diner. "Lauren," Hector breathed. "That was a great speech big brother," I told him. "Yes but part of it was thanks to you, my valiant sister. Not only did you stand for both sides you showed us your true colors. I knew you could do it," Hector grinned. "Thanks Hector," I smiled. "No problem Lauren," he smiled as I hugged him.
Sean's P.O.V.:
"Okay, now that were all back let's get this started once again," Keith told them. "Yes. What we need to do is compromise meaning come together on a proposal we can give Mrs. Quiggly, that allows both groups to use their powers," Manny agreed. "Indeed, Keith can you draw it up please," Jess asked him. "With pleasure," he said doing his special skill and drawing it up on the chalk board. "Okay, so with this what do we all want," Hector asked. "I know for certain we want to use our powers," Jess said placing the word on the board. "As do we," Francine agreed. "And we know for certain Ms. Quiggly wants this safe around traffic," Lauren added in. The others agreed as the words went onto the board. "So, with all of these up here, what is our compromise exactly," Annie asked. Francine gasped as did Lauren. "We got it," they shouted. "You got it," I asked and the gang looked at them.
Lauren's P.O.V.;
"Yes. We make a proposal that allows us to use our powers anywhere in Brooklyn," Francine started to say. "May I add this part Francine," I asked her. "Be my guest," she smiled. "Except near any traffic whatsoever. That way your side is met, their side and Ms. Quiggly's," I added the last part. "I have to admit, I like it," Keith said to us. "Yeah I agree, I am impressed Francine, you to Lauren," the others agreed. "Okay, guys do we have a compromise? If we do, all in favor say aye," Jess told them. "Aye," they agreed. "The ayes have it," Hector smiled. Everyone smiled and I knew this would be ending perfectly. "Were all getting along," Annie announced. They all looked like it was confusing and I knew it was that case.
"Okay, in this little moment of getting along that we have, is everyone okay with Lauren, Sean and Danny being friends," Hector asked. They looked at one other and soon looked at us as Danny hovered by to us knowing this could be it. "I'm okay with them being friends," Francine told us. The three of us gasped and looked at her. "If she is okay with it. So are we," Annie and Danny said together. "So are we," Jess, Lisa and the others agreed with smiles. I looked at my friends and we just smiled knowing this would work out in the end. "Thanks guys," I smiled. "No problem Lauren. Promise us you won't keep anymore secrets sometime soon okay," Jess asked me.
"We promise after today, were telling you guys the truth from now on," Sean added. "Yeah," Danny agreed. "I'm glad guys. Hey we better get ready for the meeting, everyone meet up at the subway station," Hector said as everyone got up and ready to head out. "Oh Hector, one last thing. Lauren," Manny said looking at me. "Yes," I asked. He looked at Francine and Annie as he placed one arm near his shoulder in the form of a lion paw and got on one knee while Francine and Annie dipped into deep curtsies. Danny also on the screen knelt before his best friend as Manny did. I was stunned and so was Sean but Hector, and the others smiled. I guess they must have told them my secret.
"Lauren, I know you are destined for greatness. Meant to be a ruler. I vow, I mean we vow to your Majesty from this day forward to keep secret the Order of the Lion prophecy until is fulfilled. You are the descendant of Queen Lucy," he murmured the last part. I looked at Hector and he nudged me.
"Manny, you guys don't have to do that but, I accept anyway," I smiled. "Thanks Lauren," they smiled getting up. "No problem, now come on. You guys have a meeting to get to, go, go," I said shooing them and Hector along with the others out of the diner. Sean, PJ, Mario and Shock thought it involved them to and started to leave. "Hold up you guys," I told them. "Why," PJ asked. "There gone so Hector's birthday party," I said looking around the diner making sure they were gone. "Oh right, plan time," we said coming together. "Okay, so we are set for rehearsals to start in March. Everyone better bring dancing shoes but more importantly, Hector must not know about the birthday party. I repeat must not know, it's a surprise. Mom's the word guys, got it," I started to say. "Got it," they replied honestly.
"Okay, Mario, Shock any word on equipment for the party," I asked. "Yep. Heard word from our buddy. He's more than happy to donate the equipment and DJ the party as well, free of charge," Shock said to us. "Are you serious? Free of charge," Sean asked. "Yep. Now, what are you two going to be doing when we shoot the video," Mario asked us. "Oh. Were directing," I smiled. "Directing," they asked. "Yeah. Hector has a whole bunch of notes of how he wants it to go so were using his notes to plan," Sean smiled. "Oh nice thinking guys," they agreed. "Thanks," we grinned. "Okay I want to settle a debate once and for all," PJ told us. "What you got man," Mario asked. "Harry Potter or Twilight," he asked us. Oh come on, not this again. "Okay, I'm going to admit this but Twilight," I said to them. "What come on Lauren Harry Potter is the best thing and you like fantasy," Shock told me before Mario agreed and PJ argued over him saying Twilight was good. Sean and I looked at one another and shrugged. "Hey, hey," Leo called out to them. They turned to face him. "Can we argue in here and have another blow out of what happened seconds ago," he asked. "Sorry Uncle Leo," they muttered and the two of us just giggled. My phone soon rang my BTR ringtone and Hector's number showed on the screen.
"It's Hector. Hey bro how did the meeting go," I asked putting him on speaker. "It went well and the good news is," he said. "What," I wondered. "She accepted the proposal after Francine saved her from ruining her skirt," Hector grinned. "Yes," we cheered and soon high fived one another. "I knew you guys could do it. So, does the pranksters want to come over for hot chocolate," I asked. "No. They left after the meeting but one did decide to come by, "he told us. "Who," Sean and I asked as the sound of a TV buzzing came into the diner. "Care for extra person for coco," he smiled. "Danny," I grinned knowing he would come by. "Figured I come by to join you two. After all, we are friends right," he asked. "Right. Hey Leo, 2 hot cocos please," I called to him.
"Coming up Lauren," he said as we went over to the stools and sat down knowing that our friendship was okay with group and more importantly things were going in a good direction. Hey, who knows what can happen. "Great job my dear one. Your time is coming," the voice said again as I just knew this ended perfectly.
(Meanwhile in CA)
Logan's P.O.V.:
The guys and I sat around our producer's mansion after telling him we can watch it while he was away. I still had in my pocket the coin and the statue of that lion as I took them out. "What are these and what do they have to do with me," I wondered out loud. "What you looking at Logan," James asked coming over. "These," I showed him. James soon gasped and Kendall along with Carlos came over with stuff in their hands. "You don't think," Kendall asked. "I think its started," I admitted. "Think so," Carlos wondered. "Yeah by the way, what's in your hands," I asked honestly. "Oh, James might have broken the statue earlier, Kendall turned off the smoke alarm and," Carlos started to say before we heard growling coming from a doorway.
"What was that," I asked starting to get scared. "I think that's an alligator," James said before we looked at one another. "AN ALLIGATOR AND ARE YOU NUTS," I yelled at the boys. We soon heard the alligator crawling its way to the lobby and started to see him in scaly form. "Okay, now would be a good time to run and panic," I said before screaming my head off and running away with the boys. Yeah, this may take longer than we think.
There you have it guys! Next chapter of Lauren's story is done. I figured it would be time for the others to know the secret and now the Pranksters are in the know of Lauren's true destiny. I have to admit this was so much fun to write and I made sure to add some Big Time Rush moments at the end more importantly the mansion was hilarious. I also have to give credit to Frozen 2 for the song "the next right thing". I love that song and used it for Lauren's ballad and a little bit of some Narnia scores for the reveal of Lauren's destiny to the Pranksters. Hope you enjoy guys! Stay tuned for more chapters.