Commercials & Pranks
Lauren's P.O.V.:
I cannot believe we are just less than a few months away now from the Slide and drop video shoot! Talk about crazy if you know what I mean. No wait, I think we are almost there, I hope. Anyway, Sean and I were looking through the notes Hector had written down along with the choreography he was working on with Mario's friend over the last few days. Jess, Keith, PJ, and Lisa were joining him before the girls went to the spa for some relaxation, much needed. Oh, I must mention we are at the diner still planning Hector's surprise birthday party. To be honest, the distracting part is what were stuck on with this puzzle. Don't worry, Will's on his way. He told me at school about some big news, I do not know. "Alright Lauren so, in all honesty we got everything set for the birthday party like our gift to your brother but how do we keep this party hush hush from him," Sean asked. "Good question my friend, honestly word gets around here faster than anyone can sing part of Zip-a-Dee-Doo-Dah. Besides, you and I still need to figure out the beat of the song," I admitted. "Your right. I forgot about that part," Sean admitted. "Yeah, and Hector will know one way or another. We have to keep this tight lip, but you do know Hector and secrets," Mario added walking into the diner. "Yeah, you do bring up a good point Mario, but this is special for Hector and wait a sec," I told Mario before Sean and I looked at him. "Mario," we asked stunned. "That's me," he smiled.
"What are you doing back early? I thought you, Shock, Keith, PJ and Hector were working on choreo with the girls," Sean noticed. "Yeah, you weren't supposed to be back until like 4 o'clock," I added. "Wow, nice job Lauren. Didn't have a watch," Sean told me. "Honestly, I need one," I admitted. "Oh, we were. The girls left after practice for a much-needed spa day. Figured I come back afterwards and join you guys with birthday help. Hector's doing things for your mom," Mario told us. "Well, in all honesty, Sean and I are going to need all the help we can get if we want this surprise party to go smoothly," I pointed out looking at the notes I wrote down. "That we do but how do we keep Hector distracted while we set up," Mario and Sean agreed. Hmm, this is going to be harder than I thought, I realized. "I think I got an idea," Leo said coming over to us. "Oh, hey Leo," Mario greeted him. "Hey guys. I was thinking about this or so, but I was reading an article lately about how to plan the perfect surprise party and one of the ideas suggested a "fake" event," he told us. "Okay how would we do that," Keith asked his dad. "Oh, hey dude," Sean and I said startled. "Hey," he whispered back.
"Well, since we are shooting the music video and you guys will set up the party afterwards, why don't you plan to distract Hector by, honestly well I honestly. Okay I got nothing," Leo admitted. "Yeah, that's what were stuck on," I agreed with Leo. "I got an idea," Keith said. "You do Keith," we asked. "Yep, since you put Shock, Mario and me on distract Hector duty for getting the surprise party ready maybe it might be worth making another video for the Electric Company page all about Hector," Keith suggested. "That's actually not a bad idea. So, while you guys and Hector make the video hopefully not overlapping Slide and drop," Sean said honestly. "Don't worry dude, I got another camera," I smiled. "We'll set up the building for the surprise party. Keith, I have to admit that's genius," Mario told him. "Yeah, pure genius," Sean added. "Thanks guys," he told us.
Sean's P.O.V.:
"By the way where's," Mario asked. "PJ's on his way back to the apartment. Had some schoolwork to catch up on," Keith told us. "Ah," we realized. "Okay so with that done, what are we going to do about the song Sean," Lauren asked. "I don't know Lauren," I answered. "What song are you talking about guys," Shock asked joining in at the counter. "Sean and I are writing a song for Hector as his birthday present," Lauren told them. "Aw, that's so sweet," Mario, Shock, Leo, and Keith admitted. "Yeah, were trying to figure out the beat of the song so, you guys think you can help us," I asked. "Of course! Yeah, anything for you guys," they agreed. "Thanks guys. This is going to be perfect," Lauren smiled before we looked out the window to see Will running over to the diner and saying our names a whole bunch of times.
"What's Will up to," Shock asked. "I don't know," I answered as he came into the diner.
Lauren's P.O.V.:
"Lauren, Sean you're never going to believe this guess what? Guess what," Will was saying at the seams of joy. "Okay, calm down dude what exactly are you excited about," Sean asked. "Yeah, did you take crazy pills this morning," Keith wondered. "No and oh hey Keith," Will said realizing Keith was there. "Hey dude," he smiled. "So, dude what's the news," Sean asked him. "Yeah. You normally do this when you have big news. You were jumping at the seams during school today," I told my classmate. "Yes, and this is huge news," Will told us.
"Well, don't just stand there, what are you excited about? Tell us," Sean pleaded. "Okay, so you guys know our classmate and buddy Colton right," he asked. "Colton as in the one we voted last year for the school yearbook, most likely to be on So you think can dance. That Colton," I wondered pointing to Sean and I. "That's him," Will smiled. "What about him," Leo asked. "I talked with him at school a few minutes ago and he wanted to tell us that he's going to be on, you ready? You guys ready? Honestly, I'm excited," Will said before getting excited. "What? Spit it out," all of us asked Will. "He's going to be on a national TV commercial," Will announced. "Shut up! Are you serious," we gasped. "Yep. He's going to be on a commercial and their shooting here in Brooklyn next week," he smiled. "Oh my gosh this is huge for Colton. I know he's big into acting but a commercial man this is great for him," Sean added. "I know and that's not the best part," Will added. "What's the best part," I asked. "Colton said I can invite a few of my classmates to the taping of the commercial, and I thought of you three," he told us. "Oh, this is the best day ever," Sean squealed. "This is going to be cool," Keith added. "Yeah, when are they shooting the commercial," I asked. "I think he said next Wednesday after school," Will told us. "Next Wednesday you say," Keith asked.
"Uh huh. You guys in," Will wondered. "Yes," we admitted. "Okay we'll meet after school next Wednesday and see Colton," Will smiled. "This is going to be sick," I grinned. "Oh yeah," Sean and Keith grinned as well. "So, with that, what are you guys working on," Will asked. "Slide and drop. Plus, Sean's and I's gift for Hector's birthday," I answered. "Mind if I join in," he shrugged. "Sure," we told him as we worked on plans for the video before we had to head home. Man, I cannot wait to see Colton do his commercial!
(Next Wednesday)
Sean's P.O.V.:
Today's the day! Oh, I am so excited. Lauren, Keith, and I get to see Colton work on his first ever commercial. Lauren told Hector everything a few days earlier and he was stunned along with Jess. Not going to lie. Anyway, we were meeting up at the front of school, but Will had not shown up yet. "Man, where is Will Lauren," I asked her. "He said he's coming but I don't see him," she answered seeing a sea of students coming out to busses and cars. "He should be here sooner than later," Keith said standing near us looking at his watch. "I hope," I muttered. "Lauren, Sean, Keith," his voice soon rang out. We looked to see him coming down the steps of school to where we were. "There you are dude. We were just about to send a search party," I told him. "No, we weren't," Lauren scolded me. "Kidding," I muttered.
"Sorry I'm late guys. I know I said after school but had to get stuff out of my locker," he apologized. "No need," I told my friend. "So, you guys ready to see Colton," he asked. "Uh yeah," we smiled. "Awesome! Now, I don't know about you, but we got to catch the metro to uptown now if we want to get to Colton on time," Will said to us. "Wow impressive job Will, no watch this time," Lauren asked. "I planned out everything in advance," he replied. "Nice, so let's go people," I smiled. "Alright move out," Keith grinned and soon we got to the metro heading to uptown Brooklyn where Colton was going to be shooting.
Lauren's P.O.V.:
"You know, I still find it hard to believe that Colton is shooting a commercial, I mean that's crazy," I admitted as we arrived in uptown Brooklyn heading towards the commercial shoot. "Yeah, but he's still our down to earth classmate and pal everyone knows and loves for sure," Sean added as we walked. "That we can agree on my friend," Will smiled. "Yeah. You know guys, I wonder what product their going to have for the commercial Colton is filming today," I asked honestly as we were near the commercial shooting place. "Yeah, I bet is has to be for something really neat like the Kinect for Xbox 360 that came out," Keith thought. "Or it could be one of those infomercials," Will suggested. "Or maybe it can be a food commercial," Sean thought, and we all looked at him. "Just saying," he told us. "Alright, whichever one it is, he's going to do great," I told them as we arrived to where they were filming the commercial. Which happened to be a backyard set. "Well, I guess this is the set," Will smiled. A director soon looked at us. "Are you guys part of the commercial? If you are, you should be in wardrobe right now," a director asked. "Uh no, were here for our buddy Colton, Colton Burton. He's staring in this commercial. Were all friends of him. He said we can come by," Will explained to the director. "Are you on the list," he asked. "Why should we be on the list," I asked. "I can't have fans going around here saying they are "friends" with an actor and scam their way in here," he told us. "Were not scamming our way in here, trust us. We are friends of Colton. He goes to school with us," Keith explained. "That's what they all say," he said before staring at us then saw the picture of us from Sean's phone with Colton at the school dance a few weeks ago. "Oh, there you are. I am so sorry about being snippy. I'm just having a rough day," he admitted. "All is forgiven. We understand," I told him, and the others agreed. "Thank you. I'm Josh Henderson, director of the commercial," he told us. "Nice to meet you. I'm Will, Will May. And these three are my best friends Sean Matthews, Keith Watson, and Lauren Ruiz," Will introduced us. "Hi," we grinned. "Nice to meet you guys," he smiled as Colton came on set.
"Will! You made it," Colton's voice soon sounded, and he came onto set wearing his normal sports outfit look at school. "Hey dude," Will smiled at his buddy. "Hey man. I'm so glad you can come," he grinned. "Colton," Sean and I said to him hugging our bud. "Lauren, Sean. I didn't know you guys were coming. Will texted me saying he was bringing three people," he explained. "Well, figured we come to support you dude. This is huge," I smiled. "I know. I'm glad you guys came. Thank you," he smiled. "No problem and hey you remember Keith from history class right," Will asked. "Of course I do. Hey Keith," Colton greeted. "Hey Colton. Congrats again on the commercial," Keith smiled giving him a high five. "Thanks. I'm really excited to film this," he told us. "Us too. But I must ask any idea on what the commercial is for," I asked. "Well, according to what I read it has to do with a snack. Other than that, I hadn't received any other word," he answered. "Oh, a snack they say eh," Keith grinned. "Yeah, that's the plan. I'm going to find out sooner rather than later what it is," he told us. "Uh huh. Us to," I shrugged.
"Not if I know first," a voice said out loud. We turned to see Francine Carruthers, of all people walking to where we were. "Francine," we asked confused. "Hi guys, surprised to see me," she asked. "Uh yeah. What are you doing here anyway," I asked.
Keith's P.O.V.:
"Yeah, shouldn't you be finishing up another grounding your mother gave you or even having a prankster meeting," Sean asked as well. "Well, my punishments are done for a while. Manny has detention, Annie's at art lessons. Danny's working on homework, so here I am. At Colton's commercial shoot when really, I Francine Carruthers am a star for this commercial," she explained. "More like ruin his commercial if you know what I mean," I muttered. "What did you just say," she asked. "Nothing," I told her. "Well, I should be on my way. Mother doesn't want me out in the sun too long so, tah-tah Electric Company," she told us before leaving the set. "That was odd," Lauren admitted. "Yeah, sure was," we agreed. "You don't think she's planning something do you," Lauren asked me. "I don't but we better keep an eye out," I shrugged. Will, Colton, Sean, and Lauren agreed at that point along with Josh. "Okay, on that note Colton, you ready to shoot," the director asked him. "Yep. I'm ready," he smiled as one of the other actors came on set. "Okay, positions everyone," he called out as everyone went into places.
"Alright Colton, in this scene you and a friend are playing basketball. You'll make a basket and then will go to make another shot but see your mom come out with a snack, then ask the camera, "Do you know what our favorite part of shooting hoops is,". Think you got it," the director asked. "Yep," Colton smiled. "Okay everyone here we go," he called. "Tostinos commercial scene 1 take 1 b mark," someone said as the clapper board went down. "Okay, ready. Music action. Everyone else, ready and action," he called as we watched Colton shoot hoops with a buddy and then seeing the actress come out with food. "Do you know what our favorite part of shooting hoops is," he asked the camera before he and the actor sat down on a bench. "Three, two, one, overtime," he said as the actor did like a free hand shoot while taking a bite of the snack. "Cut, perfect," the director announced. We smiled at that. "Okay, I was thinking Colton maybe before you say your line you can say something like woah to give it more power," he explained.
"I can do that," Colton smiled. "Alright then, lets go for it again," Josh smiled as Colton went back into position. "Commercial scene 1 take 2 mark," the clapper came again. "Ready and action," he called as Colton and a friend started to play again before someone came out with the snacks. "Woah, sweet," Colton and actor smiled as they came towards the snacks. "Do you know what our favorite part about Francine is," he said, and we all looked confused. "Wait, hold on cut," the director called out as everyone stopped at that moment. "Huh. I don't remember that line being in there," he said looking at the script. "Yeah, me neither. He's supposed to say the line he did in the first take," I pointed out. Lauren, Will, Colton, and Sean agreed with me on that. "Yeah, that was weird if you ask me," Lauren nodded. "Uh huh. Let's try again and see what happens," Josh suggested, and everyone agreed to the idea.
Will's P.O.V.:
I still do not know why that happened in the first place. I mean it seemed odd. "Scene 1 take 3," the clapper came again. "Okay, action," he called as the actions were being done before the actress that came out with the food stepped onto the scene and Colton reacted. "Do you know why we love the Pranksters," he spoke, and we were surprised. "Cut, cut," the director called and looked at Colton. "Colton, your line is do you know what our favorite part of shooting hoops is," Josh told him. "I know that's my line; but that's not on the cue cards Josh," he explained. "Not on the cue cards? I thought we," he answered before seeing them in full view. "Huh? I thought we wrote them the same way on the script," he thought to himself. "Well, for one thing it seems this commercial is going downhill," I remarked. Lauren and Sean stared at me. "What," I asked in defense.
"Well, someone must have changed the words on the cue cards when really the script has Colton's line, do you think it might be worth putting it back on there and see what happens," an assistant director asked. "Worth a shot," I shrugged. "Keith, work your magic," Lauren told him. "On it," he said making a wordball and placing the right words on there. Everybody was surprised at Keith's power but not us in a way, we knew. "Okay, that should do the trick, for now at least," he smiled. "Alright, positions everybody," Josh called as everyone got back into position. "Scene 1 take 4," the clapper smiled. "Ready, action," he said as Colton did some basketball moves before seeing the food. Moment of truth, I thought. "Do you know what our favorite thing about the Pranksters are? Wait cut," Colton called out and they stopped. "That's not what we had up on the card," he pointed out to us. We looked and were stunned at that. "He's right," they agreed.
Lauren's P.O.V.:
"Well, until we figure this out, we have to shut down production," Josh announced. "So that means, no more commercial shoot," Colton asked. "Pretty much," he nodded. "Well, we have to do something," Sean agreed. "Yeah, but I think it might be worth calling the gang to get their input on this. They can't just shut down the commercial now," I chimed in. "True that Lauren. So, what now," Will asked. I looked at Keith. "I'm on it. HEY, YOU GUYS," Keith yelled out loud for the others to hear. "What was that for," Josh asked us. "Calling our friends together. Don't worry. We'll get this figured out. The Electric Company has a plan. Come on Colton," I called to Colton and the others as we headed back to the diner.
(At the Diner)
Hector's P.O.V.:
"I still can't believe Lauren, Sean and Keith are seeing Colton act in his first commercial. I'm still stunned about it," I admitted to Shock as I was eating nuts. "Me too bro; yet you go to hand it to him about balancing this and school. That's hard for some people," he agreed. "Uh huh," Mario said coming in with Jess, Lisa, and PJ. "Oh, hey guys, came for snacks," I asked. "No. We heard the call and came right over," Jess answered. "Huh? Wonder who called the gang together," I said bewildered. "I did," Keith's voice rung out in the diner as we saw him with Lauren, Sean, Will and Colton joining him. "Hey Colton," Shock greeted with a smile. "Hey guys. Hadn't seen you in a while," he said as they started chatting like old times. "Hold on wait, wait a second. Aren't you supposed to be filming the commercial today," Lisa asked him.
Sean's P.O.V.:
"Well, we just came from the commercial shoot and unfortunately they had to shut down production," I explained. "Huh," they asked confused. "Yeah. Apparently, something fishy was going on," Colton told them. "How fishy," Hector asked confused. "Well, it started when Francine showed up," Lauren started to say. "Francine showed up," they asked. "Okay, can we let Lauren speak please," Will said to them. "Thanks, Will; but I got this," she told him.
"Okay, but I saw it to," he told them. "Anyway, we didn't know why she showed up. We asked and she said she got nothing to do. The others had plans and afterwards she left," Lauren told them. "Yeah, and I guess a few seconds later within the second and third take of the commercial, the line I was supposed to say on the cue card became all about Francine and the Pranksters," Colton told them. "What was the original line," PJ asked Colton. "Do you know what our favorite part about shooting hoops is," he told them. "Okay. But what I'm confused on is, if you knew what the line was, didn't you change it back," Hector asked. "Well, I did but I guess when I wasn't looking it changed back," Keith shrugged before Leo came out with his phone. We nodded in agreement. "Hey guys. Didn't know you were meeting," he told us. "Well, the gang called so here we are Leo," Lisa smiled. "Anyway, what's up," I asked Leo.
"Oh, did you guys get a text message lately like a few seconds ago," Leo asked. "No. Why," we shrugged. "Well, I did and uh I think it may have solved your puzzle ish," he told us. "What do you mean," Lauren wondered. "Here, let me play it," he said clicking on the video and showing us. "Good afternoon everyone welcome back to Francine's vlog. Today we are on the set on a new commercial that is being filmed in town. Now I know what you are thinking, why am I dressed like a basketball player? Well, it's because I am the star instead of Colton Burpton, or whatever his last name is. Anyway, I just can't help but feel Colton's pain of how he messed up a line but I'm sure he'll be better when he sees me on the commercial. I'm sorry, I can't. Oh wait, I am lying. Ha. That is what's happening so see you around," Francine spoke into the camera before turning it off.
Lauren's P.O.V.:
We were stunned at the video. I can't believe she went behind our backs to take Colton's spot in the commercial! "So that's why it was fishy," Keith said stunned. "I can't believe she did that," I agreed and so did Will. "Great, she took my spot and will tell everybody how bad I am because I messed up a line," Colton groaned. "Okay Colton, calm down. Don't fret about it yet, besides, she went behind our backs and we didn't know," Hector told him. "I know that Hector; but with this, I don't think I can act in another commercial again," he said upset. "He's right and the reputation is at risk to," I added. "So, what do we do," Sean asked. "Good question," the others agreed as we tried to think of something. "Well, I think the thing we can do right now is talk to her and get Colton's spot back," Hector suggested.
"Hector, honestly if we do that, it's like playing fire with fire and we can't just run into fire," I told him. "Lauren's right. The only way to put out the fire is by splashing cold water on it to simmer down," Will agreed. "True but in this sense Lauren, were dealing with Francine. Leader of the Pranksters, most obsessed over me and just a plain out diva, so we have to go into the flames otherwise we look like chickens," Hector told us. "Well, if you put it that way, as our only option I don't see why we can't try," I shrugged. "That's the spirit sis, now come on guys. We got a talk with a Pranskter," Hector said standing up and walking out of the diner. "You think this is going to work Lauren," Shock, Mario and PJ asked Colton and I. "Maybe but nah," I shrugged including Colton as we walked out of the diner,
(Back at the commercial shoot)
Francine's P.O.V.:
I can't believe it worked! Finally, I'm going to be a star on a commercial seen by millions! This is going to be amazing and awesome. Okay, I did make a few changes like the product is going to be mother's hotel not pizza rolls gross. Two, Pranksters are going to reign supreme and three no more Electric Company after this gets on the air. Well, I will get Hector but who cares? "Francine," a voice called. I turned to see Josh the director. "Ah Joshua, I was looking for you," I told him. "You were," he asked. "Yes, I was just going over the script and I made a few changes to it like the product instead of pizza rolls we change it to a hotel and making it all about the pranksters. Honestly, they get a bad rep here so, if you can do that, that would be awesome," I explained. "Well Francine, as much as I like the ideas you have, we can't do that," he told me. "What, what are you saying," I asked confused.
"The company has already finalized deals on these before we began shooting. There's no way we can change it now," he told me. "Huh? Guess they don't want the ideas but maybe, Annie," I called out and Annie appeared walking over to Josh. "Do the honors," I told her. "With pleasure," she said starting to do hypnotism on Josh as he fell asleep. "Okay Josh, when I snap my fingers you will wake up and tell everyone to go with Francine's ideas okay," she asked. "Okay," he mumbled before Annie snapped.
"Change of plans guys, were doing Francine's commercial idea," he announced, and everyone looked stunned and confused. "I know its weird but back to work guys," he told them. They were still shocked and went about their way not noticing the smirk and smile on my face. Okay, phase 3 time.
Colton's P.O.V.:
We made it to where they were shooting earlier, and I couldn't help but feel knots in my stomach. "You okay Colton," Lauren asked. "Not really Lauren. I have a bad feeling about this," I told her. "Don't worry about it Colton, once we explain to them that Francine did this, everything will be back too normal," Lauren told him with a smile. "Then again sis, maybe not," Hector said looking at what was happening. "What do you mean Hect," she started to say before we looked to see the set changed into one for a hotel commercial. "What on earth," I asked surprised. "When did this happen? This isn't the Tostino's Pizza Roll commercial set," Will noticed. "Actually, it's the commercial for the Antigone Hotel," Josh's voice said coming to us.
"Josh, oh thank goodness. Finally, someone I can explain this to," I said relieved. "You can call me Joshua," he said to us. "Okay uh Joshua look there's a misunderstanding with this. You see, Francine Carruthers intentionally messed up my lines and took my place in the commercial were shooting for today, you know the pizza rolls," I told him. "Oh yes. Um about that, the company decided to change plans and turn this to a hotel one. Francine said you tried to upstage her," he explained.
Lauren's P.O.V.:
"W-W-What? No, she messed up my script and caused the production to be shut down," Colton explained. "Yeah, and we were there to see it," Will piped in while the others joined in explaining everything as he tried to defend his actions.
"I know guys, and I should have given closure," he started to say. "Joshua, what's taking so long? You promised to call me onto set a few seconds ago," a voice sounded coming up to us. We stared at the person who said that and saw it was Francine. "Francine," they asked shocked. "That's right Electric Company. I'm staring in this commercial," she smiled. "Okay, when did that happen," Hector asked. "Pretty easy Hector. I heard they were shooting a commercial here in town and they casted Colton when really, they should have picked me. So, I decided to play a little game if you will by showing up unannounced, messed up his lines to make them all about the Pranksters so, I can star in the commercial and make it my own, not one about pizza rolls, gross," Francine explained while flirting with Hector.
"Hang on, you mean the whole thing about the Pranksters and Colton's line switch was just for you to get his spot in the commercial and take over," I asked stunned. "Yeah, pretty much and honestly it was like taking candy from a baby," she answered.
Colton's P.O.V.:
"Okay Francine, I think we had enough with this, but you messed up Colton's lines and upstaged him. Can you just give him the commercial back and have it return to normal," Will asked. "Uh let me think about it, ah no," she told us. "NO," we said stunned. "It's my commercial now Electric Company besides no one says no to me. Better luck getting a commercial Colton, oh wait you won't have one because you messed up," she taunted. "No, you messed me up," I shot back at her. "I did no such thing," she denied.
"Yeah, you did," I told her as we began arguing over one another while the others joined in trying to explain the situation. Lauren, Sean, and Will saw what was happening and soon yelled, "YO," as we faced them. "Can't we just let them hear our side of the story, you know the right one," Keith told them. "Well, they already heard mine and they believe me unlike you Colton," Francine taunted. "No, they have to believe me because you upstaged my spot in the commercial," I told her. "Honestly, what I want to know is how did you make them change their mind," Will asked her. "Will," we all asked him. "What? I want to know if she had help," he defended. "As a matter of fact, she did," another voice said coming over and it was Annie Scrambler. "Annie," we said stunned. "Surprised guys? You know, I would be honestly not happy of being selected for Francine's commercial but she's my friend so figured, I come support her," she told us. "Okay, but how does that explain you, helping her," Hector asked. "Oh yeah about that. She told me that she needed to convince Joshua here to change the commercial to hers, so I did some hypnotism and it worked," Annie explained.
Sean's P.O.V.:
"YOU HYPNOTISED HIM," we shouted. "Yeah, easy really," she grinned. "That's a new low for her," I muttered. "Okay but you two know this is Colton's commercial for Tostino's Pizza rolls. Not for Francine's fancy hotel commercial and Francine upstaged him right," Keith told the girls. "Uh no this is Francine's so its hers," Annie shot back. "No, it's Colton's because Francine messed up," Hector started to explain as they argued again. Great, we must get back in there. "We have to get in their guys," I told Lauren and Will who were like yeah, we must.
"Hang on guys, allow me," Josh told us as we walked but sort of stopped halfway. He soon went over to them and pulled out something from his pocket that looked like a ball before throwing it on the ground making a bang sound loud enough to stop the quarrel. Lauren yelped and hugged me for a bit at the blast. "What on earth was that," Jess asked with ringing in her ears. "Bang balls. They use these to keep everyone quiet," Josh answered. "Next time warn us," Hector grumbled. "It was the only way you guys can stop arguing," Will told them. "Okay with that, uh Joshua, right? Look, there seems to be a misunderstanding. You see Francine messed up Colton's line for the Tostino's commercial today by making the line he was supposed to say you know, "do you know what our favorite part about shooting hoops is?" And somehow it became all about the Pranksters and Francine. She did this by messing up the cue cards and you had Lauren, Will, Keith, Colton, and I there to see it. So, if you don't mind, you can tell everyone that it was Francine who upstaged him, have her banned, and we can continue the commercial as normal," I told him walking over before he stopped me.
"I do remember something about pizza rolls; but I'm sorry guys I can't tell them to change back now with the set installed and all," he explained. "But can't you at least talk to your producer? Saying it was a misunderstanding," Lauren asked him. "Maybe but," he started to say. "Ugh, Joshua, I had enough of these liars messing everything up that I did right. Call security and get them off my set, their trespassing," Francine said annoyed. "Quiet," we scolded her as she stared at us. "I'm sorry guys. I would like to help but I can't. I really wish I could," he admitted. "You can please," the others pleaded. "I can't guys. I'm sorry. Only actors are allowed on set," he told us giving the boot in the nice way possible. We all looked crestfallen after that, but Colton was more upset than ever. "Colton," I asked seeing his face in a little sadness but more like defeat. "Sorry dude," Will said coming over embracing his friend. Lauren came over and hugged him as well.
Lauren's P.O.V.:
"Come on guys lets go back to the diner," Hector admitted. The others followed and we took the bus back to the diner honestly not sure on what to do next. Colton, Sean, Will and I sat on the stools, but Colton was upset and let out a few tears as I comforted him. "Well, I take it didn't go as you hoped," PJ asked seeing us upset and we nodded. "Oh," he realized along with Shock and Mario as they sat there stunned. "I'm so sorry Colton, I thought talking would you know," Hector told him. "It's fine Hector; but I feel so down about this. I was looking forward to shooting this commercial and have it on national TV," he told us. "We know dude; but you're still the same guy we know and love," I told him. "Thanks for trying to cheer me up Laur; but I'm still upset," he admitted. "Honestly, that was not cool of what Francine did to you Colton. If I were her, I would have done the right thing and give it back," Jess agreed. "Yeah, but she's a Prankster and wouldn't give it back," Shock told Jess and we agreed. "What am I going to do guys? I'm stuck," he admitted. "Yeah, we need to back up our claim with evidence that she did this to you," Lisa added in. "How, it's not like we can go into the security cameras," Colton asked.
A lightbulb soon came on, literally after Colton said those words. "Colton, you just gave me an idea," I told him with a smile. "I did," he asked confused. "He did," the others asked including Leo who joined in. "Yeah, we can try to get into the security cameras and see if they have the evidence," I agreed with Colton's suggestion. "If it's there we can show them what really happened then," Will agreed. "They would have to believe us, and Colton can star in his commercial," PJ realized. "Now you're talking," Shock smiled.
Colton's P.O.V.:
"Alright, but how do we get into the security cameras for evidence and more importantly how do we undo the hypnosis? We got kicked off set remember," Sean told us. "Yes, we did get kicked off set; but I bet you we can find it on the computer," I told them. "But on the same token, Sean brought up a good point about the hypnosis Annie did to the director," Hector added in. "He's right about that," we agreed. "I think we can get someone we know to undo it," Lauren smirked. "Are you thinking who I think you're thinking," I asked. "Yep. Sigmund Scrambler," Lauren smiled. He soon came into the diner as he heard his name. "You called," he smiled. "Hey Sigmund, thanks for stopping by," Hector greeted. "Well, someone called my name and here I am, at your service. What can I help you with," he smiled. "Oh. It involves your niece Annie. She did some hypnotism again," Lauren admitted. "Who did she do it on this time? Oh, hey Colton," he said seeing me. "My commercial director Joshua Henderson. She hypnotized him thinking the commercial is all about the Pranksters," I explained. "Guess she hadn't learned her lesson yet; but I'll help you guys," he smiled. "Okay, now with that taken care of, how do we find the evidence that Francine did this to Colton," Lisa wondered. "I got it. Hey Hector, can I have your laptop please," I asked him. "Sure thing Colton," he smiled getting his laptop and handing it over to me.
"What are you doing exactly," Keith asked seeing me getting onto the studio website. "I'm going to look back on security camera footage and see if we can find any evidence there," I smiled working the magic and entered the coordinates for the studio set I was at earlier. "See anything," Sean asked. "No, I'm looking back on footage wait, hang on, I found something, guys" I told them. "You did," they wondered crowding around the laptop. "Sure did. Look over on the corner where the cue cards are," I said zooming in on the camera footage to where Francine was. "That's you, me, Sean, Will, and Keith," Lauren realized looking at the image. "Yeah, and look over to the right a little bit, see that purple ball," I asked them. "That's Francine's word ball. I guess she must have gone back behind the set when we after we talked to her," Will noticed. "Uh huh and I also found some voice recording of her, listen," I told them as I pressed the play button.
"Okay Pranksters, plan is working perfectly. I'm about to sabotage Colton's commercial shoot and make the lines all about us. After this, they would have to shut down production, I come in and sort of save the day, become the star not him and get the glory of being a star, along with Hector. This is it, time for the Electric Company to go down," she said on the screen before laughing like crazy. "So, according to the evidence, she did sabotage Colton's commercial," we all realized. "Francine did mess this up and Colton was right all along," PJ smiled. "So, what are we waiting for, let's print the evidence, record the voice and get Colton's commercial back," Hector cheered and we agreed getting the evidence set before marching back to the set once again.
Francine's P.O.V.:
"I got to hand it to you Annie, it was a great idea to hypnotize Josh into making the commercial all about us," I told her putting on makeup. "Well, thank you for having me come on to support," she grinned. "Don't mention it, by the way you did have the hypnosis set till sundown right," I asked. "Yep, still there," she answered. "Perfect," I told her before the door to my trailer opened. "How many times do I have to tell you knock," I groaned at the person. "Sorry Ms. Carruthers but I just wanted to let you and Annie know that you have fans waiting to meet you," someone came in with his phone.
"Fans? Already," I asked surprised. "Yep. They're waiting for you on set," he said before walking away. I squealed with Annie at the news of fans wanting to meet us. "I can't believe it my first fans! I mean our fans oh, this is working perfectly," I grinned. "Yeah, come on finish putting on makeup and lets go meet them," she agreed as I placed final touches on along with the wardrobe and walked out of the trailer. "I can't wait to meet them," I gushed with Annie. "I know, me too. I wonder how they found out about the commercial shoot an," she started to say as we came on set to see her uncle looking really angry and the Electric Company right next to him with a smile. "Uncle Sigmund, what a surprise to see you," Annie said with a smile falling down. "Annabelle Sandra Scrambler. What did I tell you about hypnotizing people," he said to her. "I'm not ready for that skill yet and need to master," she mumbled. "Speak a little louder," he asked. "I'm not ready for it yet," she said looking down. "Yep and you young lady are in so much trouble that I mean it," he scolded her. "Guess that means I'm off the hook," I smiled walking back. "Uh not so fast," Colton told her. "Ugh, what are you guys doing here anyway? You aren't supposed to be here," I asked the gang.
Lauren's P.O.V:
"We know and Colton left a few things in his trailer that he forgot to pick up," Keith explained. "And were also looking for Joshua, is he here," Hector asked. "Yes, I'm here. Who called me," he said coming over. "We did," I smiled and waved. "You guys? I thought we kicked you off set," he said shock and stunned. "I know but I have some things to pick up, but we wanted to let you know we have evidence on my claim that Francine sabotaged my commercial earlier," Colton told him. "Okay," he said with a serious look on his face but soon became surprised as Hector did his special skill showing the pictures we collected and all the details. "And to top it all off, Francine admitted to the whole thing right in this recording," Jess said before doing her skill as well playing the whole thing. Francine looked shocked at hearing her own words play the recording back that she thought no one heard. Everyone looked at her after the recording. "Francine is that true," Josh asked.
"Uh those aren't my words, I think someone placed them in my lips," she denied. "You sure? Cause I think that was your voice and laugh am I right guys," Colton asked us. "Yes, yeah it is," we agreed. "OK fine! I did it, okay? I'm the star and I should be part of this," she told us. "No, not really Francine. Colton's the star of his commercial and you sabotaged him. Not cool," Hector told her. "He worked hard for this and honestly taking it out from right under him is a new low, even for you," Keith told her. "You're really going to believe them Joshua," she asked Josh with a smile. "I already do believe them. Besides, they were telling the truth and sticking up for their friend. That's what I saw in Colton and all the actors for this commercial," Josh explained. "Oh please stop the sappy," Francine snapped. "So who cares about the sappy. If you ask me Francine Antigone Carruthers, all you want is the glory and five minuets of fame," he told her, and she was stunned. All of us were. "Oh no he didn't," I told Sean. "Oh yes he did it," he smirked. "It doesn't matter. I still star on the commercial," Francine smirked. "Uh no you don't. Security," he called as two guards came over to us. "Give Francine the "star" boot please," he asked them as they got Francine and kicked her out, quite literally. "We'll get you for this Electric Company," Francine cried out to us before walking away. Annie not wanting to get hurt walked over to her uncle who scolded her.
"I can't believe that worked," Hector said stunned. "That means Colton's got his commercial back," I smiled and hugged my friend. We soon cheered. "He sure does. Welcome back Colton," Josh smiled. "Thanks Josh, it's great to be back," he smiled honestly. "Hey, you're not under the hypnosis," Will realized. "I was wearing contact lenses and they blocked off the hypnosis," he told us. "But what about the set change," Hector wondered. "Double sided sets," he told us. "Ah," we realized. Josh soon looked at us. "I have to admit, I love the way you guys stood by your friend. He's lucky to have friends like you guys and I'm sorry for kicking you guys off set earlier," he smiled. "He sure is Josh and no need to apologize. You just had to make it believable to Francine," I told him. "Thanks Lauren. I got to say you did a brave thing for your friend," he admitted. "No. We all did and Lauren is more brave than us," Jess grinned. "Really," he asked. "No; but I know with my friends and family by me, I can be brave as a lioness," I smiled. "Spoken like Lucy Pevensie," he smiled before giving a little bow to me. I smiled and curtsied back. "Hey Josh, don't we have a commericial to film," Colton asked. "Oh yes. Your right Colton. Why don't you get to hair and makeup so we can shoot the commercial," he told him. "Sure thing. You guys staying," he said to us before going to the trailer. "You bet Colton," I smiled at him as we cheered knowing we did it again.
(3 days later)
Lauren's P.O.V.:
It's been three days since we saw Colton film his commercial and we are so excited that it's going to be on TV in a few weeks. Colton told me, Sean and Will at school that he got a finalized edited copy of the whole thing and wanted to show us before it gets out to the public. Oh, I am so excited as I was in the diner with Sean, Will and the others. "I can't believe we get to see Colton's commercial before the public does, this is crazy and exclusive," Keith grinned before Shock made some celebratory sounds. "It sure is guys. I'm excited just as you are but you got to admit, after three days ago, I wouldn't want to go through that again," I told them. "Yep, uh huh," they agreed as Colton came in the diner. "Hey Colton's here," Hector smiled. "Hey guys. Listen, I wanted to say before I show the final product thanks for helping and defending me a few days ago. Honestly, if it weren't for you all, I would not have this commercial, so thanks guys," he told us. "Your welcome dude," Keith grinned. "So, whose ready to watch it," Colton asked. "Oh I am, me," we told him. "Okay. Let's do it," he said pulling the thing on my laptop and we watched the commercial play in whole. "Colton that was awesome," I cheered for my classmate. "Yeah, way to go dude," Sean and Will grinned. "Thanks guys. i have to admit, this is really awesome," he smiled. "Well, with that I like to propose a toast," Lisa smiled raising her smoothie glass. "To Colton on his amazing commercial," I added in. "To Colton," they responded and I couldn't but smile as we continued to watch the commercial.
(Meanwhile at Rocque Records)
Logan's P.O.V.:
I can't believe we are in the middle of our first photoshoot as a band! This is so exciting and honestly, a little chaotic since Griffin, our producer's boss came in at last notice and switched everything up. I know, odd right? Well, getting back to the photo I was in my blazer with my gray V-neck and necklace as I smiled "pretty-pretty" with the boys as we took the photo. I hope this will be perfect; yet I often think of my destiny still. Afterwards, we all just breathed a huge sigh of relief. "Well glad that's done," Kendall smiled. "Yeah. Hopefully it won't happen again," Carlos agreed. "Honestly were still going to need to do a lot more boys; but your starting out and pretty soon girls are going to love you guys," Kelly beamed as Katie popped out of a duct. "Katie," we all asked including Gustavo. "Hi guys. I had a great day. You'll never believe who I found and what are you guys wearing," she asked. "Long story," the others replied as I looked out the window wondering about my destiny as I heard the soft voice of a lion, "Your adventure begins soon Logan. The time is coming. Don't be afraid," "I'm not afraid," I responded clutching my pendant right before some girls entered and tackled us. Yeah, were going to need some stiches and fast!
Ladies and gents, another chapter in the books and a big one to if I may add! I reached my 60th chapter! Thank you again guys for loving and reading Lauren's story! I'm telling you this was so much fun to write. Ever since I saw the commercial mentioned on TV, I knew I had to put this in the story. Enjoy for now guys, I'll be writing the next chapter pretty soon!