Hey, thanks for waiting this long everyone! Like 8, this is another "half chapter", but I promise that after 9.75, chapter 10 will be what you've all been waiting for. And despite going back to school myself on the 25th, I will work on this regardless of supposedly boring classes and lecturers! :D
Also, yesterday August 15th marked the one-year anniversary this story was published...four days after the death of Robin Williams. Yeah, that was a slap in the face when I first heard it on the radio. :( He'll forever be remembered, and I will always think of my favorite movie that starred him: Flubber.
PLEASE READ AND REVIEW! :D
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MU Greek Council meeting room...
The entire meeting room was silent save for the quiet ticking of the blue and white clock on the wall beside a window which opened up into a breathtaking view of the entire MU campus. Along the length and structure of the meeting room were seated monster president representatives from the various frats and sororities, along with a considerable number of MU Greek Council staff who were in charge of the essential operations regarding the Scare Games. All of their attention were diverted to the Greek president and vice-president who were both seated at one end of the table, their fingers crossed and regarding everyone calmly yet earnestly.
For Claire Wheeler, her poker face trademarked well, betraying none of her thoughts despite a flicker of concern in her features every few seconds. Brock Pearson himself displayed his usual cheery and upbeat self, but he hinted a considerable concern as well.
Everyone was. Especially since this was the day the OK fraternity was going to visit the Perry twins.
Brock tapped his clawed fingers on the table a little while Claire droned about MU related topics that needed to be brought for public or commercial reasons. The Greek president played with the blue pen she was holding, speaking as heartily as she could while both regarded the frat and sorority presidents who had turned up for the mild last-minute meeting.
Big Red from JOX and Chris from OH displayed the same posture as their arms crossed and leaned into their seats, duplicating the same gruff yet timid expressions that one would wonder if they were brothers from another mother.
Carrie Williams herself had quite a look of unease on her face, while Rosie still had her commonly seen stony-faced expression on. Although monsters were beginning to notice that the latter's was slipping around the edges as of this moment. The HSS girl leader not one to show any fear, but for something like this, she could be moved.
Carla listened calmly as she placed her tentacles on the table, while Johnny beside her was giving off the expression that he would prefer to be somewhere else than a boring meeting. The only thing that prevented the Worthington heir from leaving was no doubt the presence of the EZ leader herself, who was seated this time between Carrie and Rosie. Johnny could
only mentally grumble about the "missed opportunity" to sit next to her once more.
Not only did the current frats and sororities still in the Scare Games turn up, even the EKO president whose team was the first to be eliminated made an appearance. Claire had specifically mention the meeting would involve everyone within Greek Council, even if one's team had already lost.
Among the frat and sorority leaders, there laid a single empty seat in which Don Carlton was not present. Of course, both Brock and Claire understood immediately, and wished his absent fraternity all the best in their visit. Everyone did as news spread that Mrs. Carlton could finally see her boys.
All team leaders monsters had clearly pushed aside whatever matters they had to do for the moment once the notice went out, and sacrificed their time to come to the meeting. Beside them, Bonnie Dolly, the Greek Council secretary, typed away on a portable laptop with her clawed appendages to make short notes on what was being discussed for future reference, not to mention the minutes which she would have to type out later for both Brock and Claire.
Claire could only roll her eyes as Brock leaned in the direction of the aforementioned secretary, winking at Bonnie like he did with almost every girl he came across. She giggled softly, trying to brush him aside but her cheeks grew rosy, the way every girl had when it came to Brock Pearson.
The president of the Greek council was quietly controlling herself not to chide the so-called "womanizer", but it was his typical behavior when it came to nearly every girl on campus. Besides being a loudmouthed meathead. She might have grown used to it, but it still irritated her to no end.
Even when she stated that he watch his flirty demeanor, the bird-minotaur monster only brushed it off and quipped that he was just trying to be sociable with the ladies. Especially Freshmen girls who were in need of some "assistance" to their alma mater. Claire could only roll her eyes at every time he insisted that, while offering his arm to whatever girl was requesting help right now.
Turning her attention back to the present, Claire breathed slowly and regarded everyone present with her emotionless gaze.
"Apologies for the impromptu meeting everyone," she greeted in her usually monotone voice, "but we have called this on a particularly important matter since last time when we postponed the Scare Games."
And when the vice president finally got to speak, everyone was nearly at the edge of their seats, having almost been blown away by that explosive tone of his.
"And we can't wait to get them back on track!" he boomed. "With Oozma Kappa, people!" he added with a fist into the air.
A small round of applause echoed from the Greek leaders as everyone shared the elation of their proud fraternity. Johnny only gave a mild clap of his claws, leaning back in his seat as cheers sifted from one ear to the other. He grunted in surprise when Carla suddenly jabbed him in the shoulder. He was met with the chilling glare of her bright orchid eyes piercing into his purple ones.
"Don't be rude!" the EEK leader whispered harshly. "At least pretend to be happy about it!"
Johnny rolled his eyes and folded his arms. "Hey, we all should have seen this coming," he countered somberly. "I already gave them the stupid instruments, don't push it!"
Brock smiled as he gestured toward Carla who flinched as all eyes immediately fell on her. "Also, let's give our compliments to the EEK sorority whose own Brynn Larson has been working a fundraiser for the twins," he added happily.
"Very generous, I got to say," Claire commented.
Another round of applause echoed once more, and Carla smiled appreciatively while giving a nod of acknowledgement, her admonishing of the ROR president momentarily forgotten. Brynn has taken it upon herself to come up with a fundraiser of sorts, and saying that it was a success was quite an understatement. Practically everyone within Frat Row and even around the university had donated, and from what she heard from her fellow sorority sister, Brynn was bound to reach yet another thousand today.
"Thank you," Carla smiled at everyone. "Thanks for the support. Brynn appreciates it as well."
"It's really generous of your sorority, Delgado," Rosie grunted, arms folded. "Your team makes the Greek Life proud."
"Man," Brock chuckled as his hands laid in front of him, "maybe I should try and get into a coma myself..."
He yelped when Claire elbowed him and shot him a glare, and the vice-president merely grinned back at his fellow president.
"As I was also saying," Claire added, hinting him one last look of disapproval, "it has certainly been good news that the Perry twins are recovering well at the hospital." And with that said she actually smiled. "I think it's time for us to focus on the next segment of the Scare Games, knowing already that OK will be completed very soon."
"Of course," Brock chuckled almost darkly, "the second segment would be the same as last time, but we have made it just a little more difficult this semester." he added with a smirk. "Just so each frat and sorority can really work together."
Big Red folded his bulky arms and nodded at this. Although his fraternity hadn't made it pass the first event last semester on account of cheating, he knew how complicated challenging the librarian would be. And Carla had been in great detail when she described having been thrown out when OK survived with hardly a scratch. The rest of JOX were a bit skeptical about this next event, but who wasn't? But if OK was confident that they themselves would pull through, who was Big Red and the others to deny their own determination?
"Yeah, and blah, blah blah...look at for the librarian!" Brock chortled, laughing teasingly.
The volume of his shout nearly tore through ear drums as it bombarded the entire meeting room with its loud, booming tone. Again Claire rolled her trio of eyes while she peered over at secretary Dolly to see her fins flickering with irritation before she resumed her notes.
Johnny frowned, fighting the urge to just pull his feet up on the table and snooze through the remainder of the meeting.
"Is that it?" he asked cooly. "Talk about the twins and mention the second challenge?"
He avoided the scowl of not only Carla but other Greek captains, his eyes focused on Laura who regarded Brock and Claire's every movement. Or Mr. Pearson and Ms. Wheeler as she had often referred to them, the latter with a little more unease.
"What Worthington meant to say," Carla forcefully coughed, speaking on behalf of the ROR president's insensitivity, "is that there anymore news worth mentioning, too?"
Brock rubbed the back of his neck while he and Claire shared a glance. This meeting had been made at last minute, mostly to show cheer toward the fact that the twins were, indeed, doing much better. And that meant everyone's favorite fraternity would come back to the Scare Games. Because glob knows they would even continue should the monsters in green and yellow still be a body short.
However, there was one other thing that had crossed their minds...
"Well, this one is pretty random but..." Brock began, "you guys got any clue who left those instruments at the OK house some time ago? Seriously, I'm really wondering who!"
He was met with heads shaking and murmurs of uncertainty through the meeting room as the other occupants voiced their proper responses. Carla glanced at Johnny carefully who gazed back with a firm yet pleading expression.
Time and time again Carla wondered if the Worthington heir would ever come clean about his act of kindness. But he had a reputation to maintain and she needed to uphold her integrity to the Worthington heir. So the EEK president voiced her own answer and shook her head, while Johnny merely grunted and pretended not to listen.
The secret would be between them and them only. And less the rest know the better. If the secret got out, it could come out either two ways: monsters thinking he had"booby-trapped" those gifts with something nasty than giving them out of goodwill. Like a certain prank last semester...
Or that deep down Johnny Worthington of all monsters had a heart after all. Thus caring about Oozma Kappa more than anyone. And he really didn't want to be met with that kind of gush...
Brock rubbed his chin and sighed. "Dang, no witnesses?"
No one noticed Laura peer down at the table, biting her lip.
"Nothing," Claire commented. "Let's face it. Whoever it was might as well be some "vigilante" or whatever."
"Or a hardcore fangirl," Brock joked.
Claire scoffed. "Then that's a long list to determine."
Johnny scoffed under his breath, feeling uncomfortable that they were talking about this. Those instruments were already stored somewhere in the OK house polished and prepared for its future owners to see it. Should anyone find out he was the one responsible for their existence, he would not hear the end of it!
However, his ears suddenly became attuned to the soft, gentle tone of someone familiar before his eyes fell on a certain sorority captain.
Laura smiled, cheeks heating up a bit as all eyes fell on her. She only partially regretted speaking out, but there was no way back and she felt she needed to say her fill.
"Well, um whoever it was..." she mustered as must courage as she could speaking aloud, "I just want to say that monster was very generous and very kind to have done that." She swallowed a bit, but forced to utter more words that she nearly concealed within her voice box. "Whoever he or she is, it's someone we can all respect...right?" she added meekly.
She didn't dare allow her eyes to fall on the Worthington heir, but she hoped her words would strike something. She herself would remain "anonymous" to the truth, but she dared herself to drop hints if Johnny could grasp them easily.
Johnny found himself a little in awe toward what the Sharp girl mentioned, and he wondered that if he did come clean...she would probably be in his arms in a heartbeat.
But he shook off that thought, thinking that it was too much of a risk to make happen, so he just sat back and pretended to not know anything. Still,
the beautiful monster's words really made his heart rise. He gave one more glance in Carla's direction, who offered him a hint of a playful smile.
She didn't have to tell him he was doing an okay job regarding the Sharp heiress.
She did notice that flicker of a smirk on Johnny's face and grinned to herself, knowing that he was congratulating himself for keeping the fact that he was the one who had given the Perry twins those gifts, and she most definitely caught the hints there in Laura's words. She wondered if by any chance Laura suspected anything, but judging from the raven black draconic monster's facial expression, she might be speaking up for everyone in the room. So Carla just nodded in Laura's direction, which the latter accepted with a gentle smile.
"Well, he has my vote," Brock commented.
"For what?" Claire asked him.
"Being awesome," he said cheekily.
The Greek president had to at least chuckle at this, before looking over the last bit of the agenda once more.
"Pulling back into the second event," Brock announced, "I hope everyone knows what to expect."
Carla scoffed, recalling last semester all too well. "We get it, Brock! Don't tempt fate or someone's going into the river again!"
Brock smirked. "Something like that. Keep in mind that it's a death trap waiting for you in that library..." he added in a spooky tone one would expect for Humanween.
Carrie gulped, the PNK leader feeling the rush of fear make her hair stand up on end. "Okay, define death because what difference does it make from any other day we go there?"
"She's got a point," Big Red said, jerking his head in her direction.
"My team was lucky our little "rope" got us our flag last semester," Rosie stated.
"Too bad our bridge didn't..." Carla muttered bitterly.
It was Claire's turn to smirk. "It's going to take more than those to get your flags this time..."
The PNK, HSS, and EEK captains regarded her almost skeptically that Claire fought the urge to laugh aloud.
"We would like to mention to all of you that there the flags would be put in a place in which it would be extremely difficult to get to without making some noise..." Brock added.
"While flags and ropes can only get you so far..." Claire snickered.
"EXCEPT THIS TIME, THE SECOND EVENT IS GOING TO BE EVEN MORE SUPER INTENSE WITH NEW SURPRISES WE ADDED IN!"
Brock's voice boomed across the entire meeting room, shaking the projector bolted to the ceiling and Laura could have sworn the glass plating on the windows rattling in their holdings. And for a moment she thought she witnessed cracks appearing on the various glass trophies in a transparent cabinet bolted to the wall behind the president and vice president of the MU Greek Council. Everyone in the room jumped once more, except for Claire who was close to palming her face in exasperation as she elbowed Brock again. Dolly merely rolled her eyes and sighed once more as she finished typing on her portable laptop, scanning through her notes to make sure she copied down everything.
"What kind of surprises are we talking about?" Carla asked uneasily.
"Uh-huh," Big Red said, "you seemed a little vague on the surprises part..."
"Oh, trust me," Brock cackled, "it ain't vague. Just prepare for anything, okay?"
"What he means is," Claire concluded, "everyone...prepare for the unexpected."
Everyone gave their assent to Brock and Claire's hint in short order, and Laura carefully filed this bit of information in her mind, wondering about how she was going to inform her fellow sorority sisters about the second segment of the Scare Games. No doubt it would be harder than before, and she was
sure every single one of her sisters would need to work with each other in order for them to make it through the second event this time.
Oh, glob, the training was the snag in their preparation. And they hardly done much of it, dealing with four girls, save for perhaps Katy, who just couldn't keep it up. It was nothing like how Mike trained Oozma Kappa...
It was then her eyes finally met the Worthington heir's, his smile flirtatious yet overall sympathetic toward her. She smiled as best she could in his direction, which only came out as a wince.
"Hey, Laura," Johnny called while everyone was in discussion, "you still coming to my house later, right?"
It was the one thing he had been looking forward to all day. Despite having to cater to four other girls inside the ROR house, it was a small price to pay to be near the gorgeous new Greek captain.
Laura chuckled softly, her expression kind and showing the hint of excitement. "Of course," she told him. "My sisters are very keen on seeing your home."
Johnny laughed to himself, throwing her one more wink before leaning back in his seat. He barely noticed Carla regarding him carefully.
"Just don't screw this up," the EEK leader told him quietly.
"How would I screw this up?" Johnny retorted calmly.
It was then Carla smirked, folding her tentacles over her chest. "Did you know she might bring the pig along?"
She held back a snicker as Johnny's eyes nearly bulged out of his head at the mention of Fear Tech's mascot.
"Archie?" he almost cried. "Holy glop, are you serious?"
"Just a warning," Carla sang teasingly as the meeting was reaching its close.
_
Brynn smiled admiringly toward the next monster in line who slipped a largely-amounted bill into her cashbox, then grabbed himself a piece of candy from the bowl beside it.
Much like the first day, her little funding booth was becoming a repetitive success as the long queue of monsters began to increase.
Word ventured through campus that the OK fraternity had finally been granted the permission to visit the Perry twins at the hospital, and Brynn prayed with all her heart that it was one step closer to their recovery. She could only imagine their expressions when she surprised them with the massive pile of cash she gathered for them. They would try and refuse it, aware that the fundings that they received last semester were still largely surplus and beneficial enough as is. But she would be persistent, assuring them that with every fiber in her body they were worth every cent.
Chet could just shove it between his legs. And she would spit in his face again if he dared invade her booth and ridicule her good intentions like the first day.
Table perched outside the EEK house, the confident aquatic peered across the cul-de-sac toward the ROR residence. Her trio of eyes raised when she spotted no other than Exceeda Zeta proceed the steps of the frat house, their president taking the lead. Laura held her head high with her hands clasped in front of her as she neared the door, with Archie the Scare pig tagging along as he followed closely by his caretaker, wagging and snorting happily. Behind her Dot had a smile plastered across her face, excited and content about the tour while the other three, rather Monnie, were a bit skeptical.
Of course, Brynn wasn't too surprised, word ringing from Carla that Johnny had mentioned to her about giving the EZ girls a tour of his house.
The blue aquatic had to scoff at this. Since when did the Worthington heir ever give tours?
Colette hauled a milky white pillbox purse over her shoulder, having chosen a dress of gleaming red-scale design with an assortment of bangles jingling from her hands and pearls around her furry collar. She gazed at the exterior of the fraternity house, sincerely impressed by the framework as well as how incredibly gigantic it was. It truly reminded her of a five-star hotel, and she could only wonder what the inside would appear like.
However, the fact that they were going to have to stay close and personal with the ROR president himself sent a chill down her spine. And she glanced over at Laura the moment the EZ leader knocked on the front door.
"This guy is seriously loaded," the fashionista commented. "But if he tries anything my nails are going to meet his eyes! And that would be a perfectly good waste of a manicure!"
Laura sighed before she glanced over at Monnie, the music enthusiast's four arms crossed as she stared aimlessly at the door.
"I'm really glad all you girls are here for the tour," Laura spoke as cheerfully as she could. "Especially you, Monnie."
The yellow-skinned monster pressed her lips together as her eyebrows knitted in bitterness.
"Still don't like the guy," she responded coldly.
"Oh, seriously?" Dot intervened, her sherbet yellow locks wiggling with every movement. "Don't tell me you still think him that much of a threat just because you thought he was going to wail on Randy back at the kick-off!"
Sea green eyes met lime ones and the artist shuddered a bit.
"He's a real jerk, alright?" Monnie replied defensively. "And no doubt he has it in for poor Randy just because he's with a fraternity that's actually awesome."
"Oh, come on!" Dot insisted. "I bet these ROR guys changed a lot since last semester and I'm really hoping we'll all be friends here, living in perfect harmony like everyone else-"
"Friendship ain't magic, buddy," Katy meddled bluntly. "So don't be expecting some sicky sweet butt-kissing garbage going on here because I got to agree with Sparkle Pumps and Whiplash here."
The EZ could only roll her eyes, praying to glob things don't become awkward between her sorority and the Worthington heir. At least Dot was in perfect behavior, keeping a much more open mind compared to the other three.
All heads toward the door when they heard a click and it swung open.
The massive jaw of Johnny Worthington himself grinned with as much charm as he knew he had.
There standing on the front porch of his house were the five girls of Exceeda Zeta. As Johnny's eyes shifted from left to right, he could see the smiling art student Dot, the somewhat uncomfortable fashionista Colette, the quiet and stubborn music vocalist Katy... and last but not least the music mixer herself Monnie.
And the most significant of them all, Laura Sharp. Johnny's lips curved in a pleased smirk as he drank in the midnight appearance of the former Fear Tech student. At least she was here, and he would certainly do his best to not only entertain her but the rest of EZ as well.
The Worthington heir knew the other four would be tough customers, all except Dot, who seemed actually delighted to meet him. After all, she came here willingly yesterday, sitting on his couch and eating his chips while babbling on while watching the ROR's TV...
At least she wouldn't be a problem.
Johnny knew Colette was the kind of girl who would easily be swayed by glittery and expensive things, and his house would change her perspective on him slowly if not entirely. For Katy, she was a hard-headed chick who might be tempted by whatever could be offered to her like food and dibs on his couch.
However, the redhead herself would be a painful thorn on his leg because she pretty much had it in for him since the kick-off. And judging by the expression she gave him, she would be a lot harder to please. Hopefully what his house had to offer would sooth her tensions and get her off his back...
He nodded with approval toward Laura who stood perfectly straight with her wings tucked in, and he tried not to grimace the moment his eyes fell on Monnie. The latter frowned upon seeing him, her tail curling warningly.
"Laura," he greeted suavely, "you came." His eyes then fell on Archie who huddled closely to his caretaker. "Oh, you brought the pig..." he added less than enthusiastically.
The Sharp heiress smiled apologetically. "I couldn't leave him by himself today, and I thought maybe it would be great just to bring him with us. You don't mind, do you?" she asked, blinking questionably.
"Oh, him?" Johnny gestured to Archie. "Nah! I love the little guy!"
He bent down to the pig's level, smiling as friendly as he could before reaching toward him.
"Hey there, buddy..." he greeted calmly.
He immediately backed off the moment Archie snorted threateningly at him. Johnny quickly stood up before brushing his sweater, earning giggles from the rest of the sorority while Laura regarded him with embarrassment.
"Yeah, adorable..." Johnny muttered. He smiled at Laura. "Don't worry, gorgeous. Nothing I can't handle."
He reached a claw toward her, palm offered in hopes she would take it and the tour would proceed like he had hoped...despite the unwanted addition. Laura glanced at the hand held out to her in question before turning to him with her eyes raised.
"Shall we?" he asked smoothly.
However, a fingerless appendage shot out and gripped it rather tightly, followed by an excitement laugh. Johnny's eyes widened in shock when Dot's form towered over his, her green eyes filled with curiosity as she sidled by him.
"Let's do this!" she spoke happily, tugging on him. She looked over her shoulder and smiled happily toward her friends. "You guys are going to freak when you see this place! I should know! I was in the living room yesterday talking to him about the tour!"
Johnny could only grunt with despair before he and Dot entered the frat house first, followed by the others. The moment they stepped inside, he was relieved when she finally released him as she drank in the interior of ROR residence.
As the four other girls stepped into the house for the very first time, minus Monnie who had witnessed a party in it earlier during the semester, they absorbed their surroundings.
Colette nearly dropped her pearls as she gazed into the richly sight of polished wood and desirable paint design. It was like a mansion within! Images of famous designer homes came to mind as she analyzed every detail. If she could add her own personal touches, there would be a lot of vibrant colors that would decorate the place as if it was her own. But still, this all proved that the RORs were definitely that wealthy. And while her heart pounded for a certain JOX monster she prayed would notice her...she wouldn't mind getting at least one lavish date with any guys in this fraternity.
Just one date with a fancy dinner and all the rich props before all that was left of it was, hopefully, some expensive and stylish memento. She certainly couldn't picture herself becoming the official girlfriend of any of these ROR boys, despite some of them were rather hot...
Katy raised her eyes as she stared up toward the ceiling, portraits of various past Scarers littering the upper walls like some museum. She had to admit, there was tradition in this house. And it was quite magnificent and huge that a sleepover would triumph over any home should it take place here. Terri and Terry did mention how mesmerized this place was the very first time they visited it. The wide space was perfect for many partygoers, and the
Vocal Music major could only imagine the many times the twins had torn it on the dance floor, bringing more life to the party than the RORs ever possibly could.
Dot stared breathlessly at the interior, astounded by such design that made her almost wish she had brought her sketchbook. She could take a picture on her eye-phone, but drawing it was a must. Even though she had already been here yesterday while conversing with the Worthington heir, it all still made her a loss for words. It reminded her of those classy lodges up in the mountains, surrounded by trees and well-protected by forest fires. She would definitely want to camp here!
Monnie slowly unfolded her arms, gazing around the frat house. When she had been here that fateful night, the furniture had been pushed away to make room for a dance floor and various other party qualities. Seeing the expensive furniture with the giant screen and antique coffee tables, she had to admit that Randall might have had some enjoyment when he had been formerly a ROR. Still, even the luxuries could not win him back as he said it felt so lonely even in a house full of richness. OK, they were rich in the best way possible.
It was all a lovely sight to see, but all she could imagine was how Randall probably sat on one of those couches, moping about his losses and how his dreams of friendship were probably destroyed.
At least he was with Oozma Kappa, and out visiting two of his frat brothers at the hospital right now...
Laura stood still as she studied everything around her. She was impressed by the classiness and tradition that was the RORs' lifestyle. It reminded her of the summer house her family would visit every year on holidays and family getaways. The fine craftsmanship of the interior took her back to the most recent visit over the summer when they decided to stay at the house for the night before continuing on their trip to Monstro World.
She could certainly see how much Johnny's parents embedded themselves in this place, same for the rest of the ROR fraternity who took after their Scaring heritage. It was all simply beautiful, words couldn't describe how else she could compliment a place she and her girls were fortunate to visit.
She smiled as Archie laid down upon the polished wood, rubbing his entire body against it as if ridding himself of an itch. Nice to see he was enjoying himself and not causing trouble. She turned around, hoping to catch sight of any of the girls having just as much enjoyment.
She almost gasped when she found herself facing the Worthington heir himself, who smiled pleasantly with his arms folded across his bulky chest.
"Like what you see, Ms. Sharp?" he teased.
She fought to not allow her cheeks to heat up as she nodded delicately. "This is all so lovely, Johnny," she complimented, just remembering not to refer to him in last name. "It's very generous of you to show us your home."
Generous. Johnny doubted any monster had ever referred to him that way before. True, his family donated considerably to the university and he and his frat brothers did a lot of charity. But most students believed it was only to gain attention, nothing "heartfelt" in the matter.
But for Laura, her words spoke with sincerity and gentleness towards him. Glob, another thing that he just adored about her...
"I'm really glad you could come today," he told her tenderly. "I've been meaning for us to have this little together thing for some time now."
She chuckled softly, those sky forest eyes making his heart race. "And I'm very honored that you think so highly of my girls to do all this."
He only served half a smile at that, wishing Dot hadn't misunderstood his intentions yesterday...
Speaking of which, he nearly toppled to the ground when he felt two long and shapely arms lay on his shoulders.
"Oh, my glob, Jo!" Dot squealed like a little girl in a candy store. "This place is AWESOME!"
"Thanks..." he muttered. "You only told me that about a hundred times yesterday..."
"Jo?" Katy snorted, turning toward the taller girl.
"Oh, I just come up with some nicknames for these guys!" Dot laughed sheepishly. "Oh, like right now!" she added as she pointed a teardrop arm in front of her. "Here comes Suave Jav!"
Everyone turned toward the kitchen doorway where emerged no other than Javier Rios. Expression unreadable as always, he entered the living room with his four arms carrying a tray of snacks and drinks.
"Hi, Suave Jav!" Dot greeted jovially, waving a hand in the air. "Great to see you again!"
The insect monster himself merely nodded at her, and it was unsure whether or not he was smiling at all. Yesterday she had been the only monster outside his fraternity to have a bowl of his chili, and he did appreciate her kind compliments before requesting seconds. Still as childish as he first viewed her, but at least she wasn't hostile like some girls who would assume his frat brothers were "the bad guys".
He placed the trays down on the coffee table before gesturing for the other girls to help themselves. All of EZ chattered and enjoyed their snacks, before taking their seats among the various furniture while the TV remained on. Javier said nothing, but Johnny could read his expression of disapproval as he witnessed Katy place her feet up on the table. The supposed troublemaker of the group who dared to challenge the CDA leaned against the pillows, almost as if she was calling the couch all her own. And Monnie, who sat perfectly with her hands in front of her and eating, barely had much room because the former was already sprawling on the couch.
"Suave Jav?" the DJ raised an eyebrow at Dot. "Really?"
"Well, I don't think he likes Javi-peno..." the artist responded innocently, casting a friendly grin toward the insect.
Javier said nothing, not bothering to request refusal about being referred to with pet names. Johnny didn't like it either, the second nicest of the sorority starting to irritate them. Of course, she had forgotten their names the first time and tried to "improvise", only able to recount parts of their names and roll them off her tongue to the best of her memory. She was beginning to remember their names, but her kiddy lisps and mumbles proved she preferred the former.
She was nice and very acceptive of the RORs despite three of her sisters didn't, but even that was starting to look like a boon to the Worthington heir...
But Chet liked her, claiming she was a lot nicer compared to most of the other girls in Frat Row.
And here came the crab-like monster skittering into the living room now, his single eye wide and his toothy grin even wider.
"Chex Mix!" Dot greeted happily after sipping her drink.
"Chet, please," the smallest ROR brother insisted. "I ain't a bowl of pretzels here!"
"Oh, I know," Dot giggled. "I can't help it! You guys just remind me of cartoons!"
"Has she not been with the crazy legs Oozma lately?" Johnny grumbled toward Javier.
"But anyway, it's good to see you!" she sang. "The girls are all here and can't wait to check out the house like I am!" She smiled at her leader. "Isn't that right, Laura?"
The EZ president coughed lightly before wiping her lips of crumbs. "Oh, yes, of course. Very excited, indeed."
"See? We're all happy here!" Dot cheered, smiling hopefully toward Colette, Katy and Monnie.
"Well, I like what I see so far," Katy commented, not noticing the disapproving stares as she scooted her feet further on the table. "I could get used to this..."
"Pretty fabulous," Colette added.
"Yeah," Monnie said uneasily, forcing just a small smile. "Sure..."
Dot turned to Javier. "Thanks for the food! You are so awesome, Jav!"
Said monster shrugged, just pleased she was using something much closer to his real name this time. He glanced toward his fraternity leader whose eyes laid on Laura Sharp herself. Well, he got his wish, too bad it came with a price...not to say Dot was a burden or anything, but she was like some little sister despite having astounding height!
He noticed the sly grin across Johnny's face, indicating that the plan was to be set in motion. The RORs have never exactly given tours before, being quite protective of their house. His eyes fell on the Scare pig who was gnawing on one of the cookies served to the girls, and he recalled how much chaos that animal created this semester according to Johnny. Javier shuddered to imagine how much damage a little pig had caused at the Greek Council meeting...
He only hoped he didn't have anything huge to worry about for their house...
~
The Worthington heir smiled politely and gestured for the whole EZ sorority to follow him. They reached the hallway in which large portraits of famous Scarers that came from various Scaring families including his own decorated the walls. Small trophies of various sports and medals awarded for excellent class results gleamed in the cupboards and glass boxes, making the entire hallway shine like a jewelry store.
Although he noticed the expression of awe and admiration upon Laura's face, Colette appeared somewhat frightened and clung to Katy's arm. The same went for Dot toward Monnie, the taller girl far more intimidated of being surrounded by scowling faces of elder Scarers.
While he had expected this type of reaction from non-Scaring students, Laura's was all he desired as she observed the history before her. Archie was circling around them, sniffing their path as his six legs trailed across the smooth carpet. The pig seemed to be of no trouble, and if anything Johnny hoped he could reach some sort of "understanding" with the little animal. Anything to please the Sharp heiress.
"And here is our hall of fame," he announced proudly before gesturing to the walls. "Every single monster that has joined ROR from the day it was founded has been recorded in this long list of names. They've also done this frat proud by earning a name for themselves in the university by winning the Scare Games as well as being the top students."
"Wow," Laura observed, "that's a lot of winnings."
"Don't be intimidated, angel wings," Johnny said, closing some distance between them as he stood before her. "This semester is bound to be interesting. And who knows who's going to win what." he added with a wink.
She smiled politely toward him, cheeks reddening as she offered the current ROR president a nod. Johnny smirked, simply eyeing the beauty before him and enjoying the fact she was under his roof right now, drinking every word coming from his mouth.
However, the moment was ruined by the loud whistling that tuned from Katy as she gazed around in astonishment. She then smirked at Johnny, hands on her hips.
"So basically there were more guys like you?" she teased.
Johnny wasn't sure whether that was a compliment or an insult, but either way at least she was impressed.
"Uh, yeah, that's about it," he responded casually.
Colette analyzed the array of busts that lined down the historic hallway. "Wow, this all looks pretty old..."
Honestly, she would rather powder her nose than suffer the dullness that was worse than her history class. But these ROR boys were rich, she had to admit that their money could buy the gaudiest but most inexpensive treasures on the market. Although this was all rather creepy and almost haunting...
The fashionista couldn't help but reach over toward a nearby bust, the texture too good for her not to touch. She tapped with a lone manicured nail, impressed by the sculptured layout and external features. She could so imagine her face crafted far more beautifully if she was given the chance to be featured on a bust herself.
Johnny gulped, eyeing the tiny-horned monster nervously. "Um, careful, that's kind of as important as the Dean's record-breaking scream canister..."
And he knew what happened to that. and Johnny wasn't sure if he could replace the bust as well...
"I'm careful with things!" the glittery-dressed EZ girl assured him stubbornly. "I, like, am not accidental-prone!"
However, her claws accidentally swatted it before it began to tip over.
Colette gave a gasp of alarm as Johnny's eyes expanded in horror. The group of monsters watched in fright as the bust of the famous monster, and Johnny's family ancestor at that, slowly moved from its post and slanted a few degrees to the right.
And it appeared to fall directly on Archie who was snorting, gurgling, and unaware as he took a break sitting on his hind legs.
Johnny face drained of color, both for the bust and the pig. "Oh, my glob!"
"Archie!" Laura cried fearfully.
Before any monster could react, Katy's arms shot out and roughly grabbed onto the horns of the bust before it toppled over and landed on the Scare pig. Archie finally did notice the danger and quickly ran off, running back to Laura's side before rubbing himself against her furry legs. With a strenuous grunt, Katy lifted the ancestral stone back into its proper place. With a relieved sigh that it was back upon its post, she turned and glared at Colette.
"Okay, Sparkles..." she grumbled, "You don't touch anything, alright?"
Colette shifted on her heels, lowering her head shamefully until her locks of hair fell over her eyes.
"Uh...sure..." she responded quietly.
Johnny gritted his teeth, releasing the breath he never knew he held in as he watched the bust stand proudly once more. The day Chet first became a ROR member, he had done the same thing. Twice!
If Colette was looking for a date, she and Chet would probably make a good match. Calming down, he turned to Laura, whose sky forest eyes shone with apology as well as relief. Glob, he wished he could have had the tour with just her, but he needed to bite the bullet and remind himself that his family's bust was safe and out of harm's way.
Hopefully, he could say the same for the rest of his house...
Colette clutched her purse tighter to her side, smiling regretfully as everyone regarded her. This memorably returned her to that one time during a high school field trip at some boring art museum where she had nearly become the sole fiend of having almost ruined a priceless painting. She taught herself never to apply perfume next to a work of art should she wind up responsible for the consequences...
"Okay, don't touch the bust thingies..." she murmured, "...got it."
Johnny just sighed and shook his head, then glanced over at Laura Sharp, the EZ leader's gaze caught in his as she hunched her shoulders with apprehensive remorsefulness. However, she least gave a tender smile in his direction, and that was more than enough to placate his substantial worries.
"Alright," he announced reluctantly, "moving on..."
~
He led them out of the hall of fame and into the Library, and it was then he noticed Laura's jaw drop.
The entire library was huge and massive that it could compare to one wing of the university library. It was stocked with every single volume of Scaring, from the first edition to the last. Red wood shrouded the floors, perfecting that glimmer that one could almost see his or her reflection. Sigils of the ROR fraternity and soft carpeting matched splendidly with the red and gold lined curtains. Chairs and couches occupied one area with a circular coffee table, complete with a case full of roses and lantern lights.
Johnny smirked to himself, witnessing the expressions of awe from the EZ sorority. Even Monnie couldn't suppress her gaze of amazement.
"This is the our frat house's library," he informed. "It has every single Scaring theory and history book to date, from the limited editions to the very first printing." he grinned, folding his arms over his bulky chest. "We may be the best frat on campus, but we take our studies very seriously."
Laura emitted an almost dreamy sigh, her shoulders lowered as her eyes scanned her surroundings. "Wow, this is all so amazing!"
Colette had to admit that everything about the library was rich to detail and proved once more how incredibly wealthy the ROR boys were. However, the only thing this place would benefit her was that it was perfect to either snooze or make out. She had done the former rather than the latter, books being her substitute pillows.
Of course, she did fantasize about making out with a certain JOX hottie. And this place was promising of privacy.
Katy's eyes loomed over the hundreds of volumes laying on the shelves. She had to wonder if the likes of these ROR boys even had the time to read every single one, same going for the monsters before them. Who would want to be cooped up with a large book that practically weighed the same as a house? True, she didn't not know much about Scaring, but she was certain that subject didn't need this much reading. Of course, she could be wrong after having met Mike Wazowski. He was a walking library, but much more reliable compared to this.
Monnie averted her gaze to the floor, having quickly cleared of being dazzled. She would rather choose Bohol Hall over this place anytime. It felt to possess a suffocating presence, and she couldn't help but dislike the sinister shades that lurked between the bookshelves and ceiling.
She stared down at the lower shelves, and she couldn't help but wonder if this was where Randall did his studying other than his room.
Maybe when he wasn't in his room and couldn't immune to being in such a big, discomforting house by himself, did he return to his dorm room just for better solitude? That OK monster was very smart, maybe he might have read half this place, but he didn't need books to prove he was much smarter compared to the Worthington heir.
Her sisters would assume she just wanted to kill the guy...and they were probably right. Although she wouldn't let the thought of him always get in the way, especially when she made sure to keep Randall safe.
Still, she could imagine the lizard having spent days in this place. All alone and unsure of himself in a frat full of arrogant jerks...
Dot looked around, slightly intimidated by the hundreds of books with little difference to each cover. Libraries like these made her feel a bit dumb, but she could handle some forms of books like volumes and anything relevant to
her interest. After all, she was learning a bit of art history in her classes. To study Scaring, that was honestly scary.
Laura allowed Archie to lean against her leg as she drank in the library. It was breathtaking and beautiful, and she was very impressed by what the RORs kept possession in their home. She was unsure if JOX had a similar installment, although OK did. She had seen enough of their house, even introduced to the room where all the books were kept. It was like their study place. As for here, it was like another version of Boho Hall. Being the studious type, she wondered if Johnny would allow her to look at one of them.
"Pretty chill place," Katy commented with false interest. "You actually read all this?"
"Well, yeah," the Worthington heir responded. "RORs are the best, my friend. And despite you're not exactly scary-"
"You make that sound like an insult," the blue-eyed aquatic cut in coldly.
He tried not to roll his eyes. "Like I said, despite you're not exactly scary, I'm sure even you would read some of these."
Katy thought for a moment. "Yeah...no," she replied less than enthusiastically. "I can just read my stuff on the computer. That or Spark notes."
"I like reading," Colette spoke, not tearing her eyes away from her compact mirror, "although history makes me gag a bit."
"Why am I not surprised..." Johnny muttered, watching as she fiddled with a tuft of her furry collar.
His eyes fell on Monnie for a moment, and he immediately turned away when her green eyes glowed sinister in his direction.
"This is a really nice place," Dot said, her voice ringing sincere as ever.
The ROR leader sighed, able to form a grateful smile toward her. "Thank you. That's all I wanted to hear."
Meanwhile, Javier poked around from behind a stall, having arranged some books that had been carelessly left out of its slots by either Chet or Reggie. He glanced over to see Johnny with EZ and a grin tweaked across his lips.
Looks like that chum was actually doing a good job with the tour, although the bug monster had to mentally chuckle at the fact that his leader was unable to obtain any alone time with Laura. He watched as Johnny sidled beside said monster, his purple eyes broadening as he smirked down at the president of EZ.
Laura glance up at the Worthington heir, smiling with sincerity as her eyes appeared to twinkle in his view. A content expression plastered her face as she held her head high, appearing as mature but impressed in his presence.
"This is all very stunning," she spoke calmly. "Amazing what books you must have here."
Johnny winked at her. "Every volume to your liking, gorgeous."
The EZ leader chuckled softly, averting her gaze as she observed her sorority sisters departing to inspect more of the homely place. The Worthington heir had to pat himself on the back, feeling the intimacy of playing hard to get progressing between them so vividly. And it was pretty cute the way her head turned to avoid eye contact out of embarrassment.
"So you have a little piece of the MU library here," she commented.
He nodded. "Trust me. My family could buy the whole library if they could. But we just simply donate." he added with bluster. "We're well connected with MU. All Worthingtons go to MU; it's tradition."
"So have you ever let other Frat Row students borrow books from you?" she questioned, glancing at him from the corner of her eye.
"Of course," he responded, heart racing a bit as she stared at him. "As long as they return it on time and don't damage them."
Dot picked up a book that was carefully laid atop the nearby coffee table and inspected it curiously. "So you have something like a return date system, right?" she asked as she looked toward Johnny.
"Yeah, each book is individually tagged and has its own serial number," he informed, somewhat thankful that at least the artist seconded herself to
show some interest and understanding for the ROR library. "Only the minted edition books are not allowed to be taken out of this house."
"How come?" Colette asked absently, not bothering to look at him while she fiddled with her nails, her mind half-occupied by the plan to possibly get a new manicure.
Johnny glanced toward her, quite reluctant to speak with her. She had about as much literary enthusiasm as a certain lazy blue behemoth that used to be part of his frat.
"Well, it's because they are quite expensive," he said carefully, "and some of them have been out of print for many years. The last thing I want is any of these books, especially the most prized ones, being held in irresponsible hands."
Bitterness seeped at the end of that sentence, recalling one time Carrie Williams, or whichever PNK girl it was, borrowed a book from the ROR house. However, she kept it for a month and had forgotten about it until Johnny inquired for it return. She never even read the darn but inexpensive thing! And the pizza crumbs on the cover was more than enough evidence to prove so. Relevance came from Susan Jensen who only wanted to borrow one of their books to use as a foot stool to fix a light bulb at the HSS house. Some monsters just didn't know the value of a good book. And by value meaning wealth overall...
"What other subjects do you have besides Scaring?" Laura asked, eyes darting toward the aisles of history before her.
Johnny released the ill-feelings of past endurances the moment he heard that angelic voice sift through his ears. He turned toward Laura, her wings draped carelessly and her back straight as ever. He gave her a smile, claws at his waist.
"Name one title and I can find it for you," he told her smoothly.
"Okay then, let's see..." she pondered while tapping a finger against her thigh. "How about "Frightening but True Facts on Human Realm" Norton Anthology?"
The familiar title sinking in, Johnny chuckled lightly before glancing toward Javier. The bug member nodded silently before rushing off and plucking it off a nearby shelf. He came back to his president and handed it to him like a servant giving his king a pipe. The Worthington heir smiled before turning back to Laura, drinking in her astonished expression.
"That's really an advanced book," he commented as she carefully took it out of his claws. "Even I hadn't really had much interest in reading it."
Laura held the cover before her eyes, tracing the smooth plastic seal before looking at him shyly. "Oh, well, it's very interesting to me."
His smile softened, drinking in the intelligence that was complete with her beauty. "Yes...very interesting...I agree..." he murmured.
Like before, their eyes met, and Johnny could just feel her soul approaching him with an invisible thread. And no doubt he could see the tints of red upon her midnight-colored cheeks...
"Oh, barf!"
He nearly grunted in surprise before turning toward Katy, the Vocal Music major sitting at one of the seats. And her feet were pulled up and resting on another chair. She must not go to a lot of banquets if she doesn't even know how to sit properly...
"Big deal," she scoffed. "Everyone, Scarer or not, already knows that humans are like killers or whatever!" she added sarcastically.
Johnny's lips tightened, aggravated that her smart-aleck mouth intervened once more. He could only wonder if that tone of hers resulted in head-butting with any of her professors.
However, Colette barged into the conversation, her shoulders hunched as she clasped her hands above her chest. Her ruby brown eyes shone with fear at the mention of humans.
"Is it true that children can spit acid and kill with just a stare?" she asked fearfully.
Laura bit back a laugh, turning to the fashionista. "Of course not," she stated matter-of-factly. "Human children are just toxic in the sense that their touch can poison monsters, and their objects can cause severe contamination to the monster world."
Katy rolled her eyes, crossing her legs over as she leaned back in her seat. "Yeah, like we don't already know that..." she muttered, blue eyes looking away, her mind clouded by the heart-wrenching image that was her reason to get in trouble with the CDA.
Colette's knees buckled. "I am so scared about their acid-spitting ability, and I heard they have laser eyes!" she added fretfully.
While Laura regarded her with uncertainty, Johnny nearly felt the need to facepalm at the fashionista's beliefs, with even Javier raising an eyebrow at this.
True, humans were dangerous, but Johnny doubted they possessed any of those considered traits. The fashionista with all the flashy attire was acting like a complete wannabe damsel in distress.
He turned to Laura, who shared an expression of mutual agreement. Glob, she must be the only smart one on this team, besides Dot and, dare he say it, Monnie...
"Um, any Scarer who makes a report about an 'incident' while in the human world have made no assumption about that," she explained heedfully.
"I'm no Scarer but that's got to be true," Dot added, flipping through the pages of a random book she discovered. "I mean, Mike and Sulley came back from the human world." she added with a bright smile that represented her inner adoration for the two. "The only thing they found was how full of awesomeness they got, mostly Mike."
Johnny tried not to frown at what praise the little guy was getting. Even though he was expelled, he was receiving as much good feedback as Oozma Kappa. And that really stung the Worthington heir. He ignored his irritation as he peered at Laura, before eyeing the book she held with such delicateness.
"You can borrow that for as long as you want, gorgeous," he told her, adding more charm to his tone.
His smile deepened in pleasure as Laura's eyes enlarged at his insistence. She just smiled back before her ears lowered, gaze dropping to the floor. So cute.
"So how exactly old are these books, anyway?" Katy asked as she got up from her seat and approached one of the nearby shelves.
The blue-eyed aquatic reached up to grab one of the books from a high shelf. She had to stand on her toes just to get it, and when she did, it appeared to be wedged tight. She gritted her teeth as she tugged harder, her dull claws digging into the fine leather which initially caught her attention.
"Uh, Katy, be careful..." Dot warned her nervously.
The Vocal Music major scoffed. "Come on! I'm not Sparkle Pumps over here!" she countered, jerking her head at Colette who merely glared black and huffed.
However, just as she managed to yank the book out of its slot...many more fell onto the floor during the transaction.
Colette grinned mockingly toward other stunned EZ girl, arms folded in triumph. Talk about hypocritical humor! The pink-fleshed monster was a loss for words as she winced at the mess she created. Javier raised his eyes at the fallen books, while Johnny averted his own for the moment while biting his lip, regarding the expensive books on the floor and scattered in all directions.
Those books were quite hard to find, and many of them were out of print for so long collectors would likely kill to pay for a copy. The Worthington heir forced down his agitation, trying to appease his thoughts that the books suffered no major damage.
"Ooh, my bad..." Katy muttered.
"You were saying, Katy?" Colette asked innocently, hands on her hips as she threw her another mocking smile.
Katy glared at her. "Okay, you got to admit we did not see that coming!" she spat.
"At least my accident didn't result in hitting the floor," Colette retorted cooly.
Katy frowned at her before glancing at the book she had picked up. "The Psychology of Fear?" She turned toward Johnny and Javier. "Man, you Scarers study the most boring things."
However, she took a gander at a random page out curiosity. Javier had lowered to his knees to pick up the fallen books, a flicker of irritation on his face.
Johnny gulped in some breath before he bent down and picked up the books scattered at his feet, and everyone joined in as well to complete the job faster. The Worthington heir snuck a glance at Laura, who laid on her knees with such grace. She picked up each book with delicateness, knowing just how each piece of literature was worth considering they were old and almost ancient. At least he got a good view of her form as she bent down beside him. However, he watched as Katy took one book and carelessly tossed it over on top of another one. She really didn't understand the value of books...
Dot cautiously picked up three before frowning in Katy's direction. "I don't think that's how you should handle them."
"Chillax!" the rapper enthusiast assured her with a guffaw as she dropped another book atop her own stack. "I'm careful!"
"You just said that and look what happened!" Colette scolded.
Johnny mentally sighed, shaking his head. He could only wonder what would happen once they eventually received their own sorority house. The library would be in disarray, and Laura would be so displeased...she might come racing to him in hopes of comfort. Johnny had to smile at the thought as he picked up the last of his share before he glanced over at Laura once more.
Laura's lips tightened, feeling a little embarrassed about two incidents that had occurred in such little time. Of course, they were simply accidental, but she had to admit that they were a bit careless, especially with how Katy treated the situation after starting it. She laid one hand against a lone book beside her. Mere milliseconds after she did another hand placed itself atop hers.
Eyes widening, she looked up and gazed into the purple eyes of the Worthington heir.
Johnny did not expect his hand to go there, but somehow it moved of its own accord, and he felt a mild sensation before staring into those sky forest eyes. She was so captivating, and guys would envy him greatly for having this particular contact with her. Especially when she was under his fraternity roof and just so close to him!
Laura stared at him with puzzlement, and Johnny just grinned, flashing his sharp teeth in her direction. He mentally whined when she quickly pulled her hand away, and he recalled this was perhaps the second time they had physical contact. He would never forget the first, which had taken place at that football stadium...
She rubbed her hand quietly before handing Johnny his books. "Here. Hope they're not damaged..."
He chuckled. "I assure you, everything is totally fine."
"Well, even if they were scratched, it's not like you'd read them anyway," Katy called out jokingly. She laughed while no else appeared to find humor in it. "Right?" she ushered toward everyone. "Am I right?"
Colette scoffed, rolling her eyes. "Careful, Growl Rida, you're just making yourself look worst."
The singer just stuck her tongue at the fashionista. Johnny suppressed a groan while his frat brother placed everything back on the slot with carefulness. The ROR president wheeled to Laura, wishing it could have just been her he was entertaining. The monster in heels and the one with the smart tone were beginning to get on his nerves, followed by the redhead who only partially gave a darn about what the RORs were all about.
But Dot, she was actually okay. A bit childish but nothing like the members of Oozma Kappa. Maybe the tour would have been just fine if it was only Laura and the tall, gelatinous cartoon lover. Dot would be too occupied with his house to even notice him try and make sweet talk with her leader.
He casted one last look at the orange sherbet colored girl, having to smile as she handed Javier a book with both caution and kindness. He then turned to the rest of the sorority.
"Okay, now that the intermission is done," he spoke with a slight slur, "let's get going."
"So where are we going next?" Laura asked as she reached down to pet Archie who snuggled against her legs.
Johnny watched as Javier slid the last of the expensive books back onto the shelves. "Well, who likes to check out the art gallery?"
Dot's lime green eyes stared at him curiously. "Art gallery? You guys paint?"
"Not really," Johnny responded, recalling having spent a lot of money for that crafts book that was now in Chet's possession, "but these paintings were done by a famous ROR member who had quite the artistic talent." He smiled, proud for sharing yet another fragment of magnificence that represented his fraternity. "We kept them in a separate gallery right next to here."
Gesturing, he opened another door to the aforementioned art gallery. As the group of girls passed him, he winked at Javier who merely shrugged in response.
At least the girls couldn't do anymore damage in the library...
~
Leading the sorority behind him, Johnny kept close by Laura whose hands were clasped together, keeping careful as they neared the location of even more priceless objects. He smirked to himself, watching her shoulders lower as she held her head high, appearing quite sophisticated she could be considered royalty.
Once they entered the art gallery, it was Dot whose interest sang true. While Laura displayed approval of the various paintings around them as she stood by the affectionate cartoonist, Colette and Katy were less than attentive. The high-heeled former busied herself with the examination of her nails and considering getting them done this week if she could call for an appointment. The cool-headed latter had taken out her phone, playing an app that only required the skill of a single finger. Monnie showed signs of being the tiniest bit impressed, but she said nothing as her sea green eyes fell on one of the pictures without any real curiosity.
"Wow, this is really nice," Dot complimented. "Everything sure looks pretty!"
"Yeah," Johnny murmured as he glanced in the unsuspecting Laura Sharp's direction. "Very pretty..."
Thankfully none of her sorority sisters noticed him taking an eyeful of their leader, his eyes glinting with pride. The moment she glanced in his direction, he merely grinned and flashed his teeth at her. Her lips pressed in a shy but sensible smile before returning her attention to the various paintings and art pieces on the walls.
Dot stood in front of one of the paintings, her face nearly shoved right into the colors as she gawked at it curiously. "Wow, this one reminds me of that one character from that one cartoon which I totally forgot about the name of right now!" she exclaimed. "Although I think if this was like sparkle lavender or something, I'd know what I was talking about."
"Lavender?" Colette mused. "Please, I think it would look fabulous in rainbows!"
"Rainbows?" Katy snorted. "You trying to represent a group of monsters or something?
Before Colette could retort, she turned her attention back to Dot, who was eyeing the portrait rather happily. The artist couldn't help but reach over and touch it, the glass surface preventing her from tracing the thick patterns formed by heavy brush strokes. She wasn't able to resist, imagining herself as some cartoon character trying to discover the mystery behind the portrait.
Johnny gulped, wishing she would just keep her hands to herself while they were here. "Hey, be careful with that!" he warned nervously. "That dude's one of the oldest ROR members!"
"Sorry, I just want to feel it for a minute," Dot responded innocently. "And besides, there's glass on this." she laughed as she tapped on the painting. "I got to say, I've experimented a bit with paints like this."
She couldn't help but trace the framework, feeling crafted wood made so perfectly and held greatly despite age. Despite adoring experimentation with paints, she wasn't full-imbibed in art history. Being an avid cartoon lover, she would rather learn the backgrounds of famous cartoon illustrators for her favorite shows than look up about some dead monsters who experienced a "dark chapter in their lives before discovering inspiration". She usually sat in the back and read fanfiction on her eye-pad while the professor droned on; but she never slept in class.
"Is there a name and date here?" she asked, peering down the frame. "Maybe I could look this guy up and get some inspiration for my illustrations project."
Carefully, she slid a fingerless hand under the portrait before raising it from the wall, trying to catch a peek of anything written behind it. However, she lifted it much too high that the frame suddenly slipped off its nail.
Johnny gasped in horror as the painting of the famous Scarer toppled from its wall. It fell forward knocking against Dot's head. The Art major student gave a yelp of surprise from the impact as the picture hit her face before falling from her long arms. It was about to crash into the wooden floor had Katy not managed to save it, stretching her dulled laws out and catching at the nick of time. The Vocal Music major nearly lost her balance due to how extremely heavy it was, but she dared herself to get a hernia as she struggled to hold it off the ground.
The Worthington heir breathed a sigh of relief, as for Laura who wiped her forehead. Archie merely snorted and sat on the ground, rubbing behind his ear as he observed Katy groaning as she hoisted the painting back onto its nail with no help from anyone. She emitted an irritated sigh the moment the agonizing weight was off her hands before she casted a disapproving glance in Dot's direction.
"Alright, you don't touch anything either!" she scolded. "Holy glop, these paintings must have cost a fortune!"
"Guess it's getting contagious..." Colette huffed, hands on her hips.
Dot placed her hands behind her back, hunching her shoulders as she bit her lip. "Sorry..." she muttered.
Johnny gritted his teeth, having nearly had a panic attack the moment that portrait fell. The sorority was going to destroy his house if they kept this up! While he had expected much from Colette and Katy, Dot was completely unexpected. She was just so well-behaved and polite that he never thought she would nearly cost his frat any of its priceless things.
That only left...
He glanced over at Monnie, the latter folding all four of her arms. Her green eyes caught his purple ones and she frowned a bit.
"I know what you're thinking..." she said quietly.
And she shot a glare at him that would make a HSS girl envious.
"As if I'm going to touch anything," she snapped, "because I don't have a case of itchy hands."
She averted her eyes from Johnny and focused them somewhere else, avoiding his gaze and not noticing the slightly apologetic face Laura had provided the ROR president.
"I am so sorry about that, Johnny..." she spoke maturely. "On both of my sorority sisters' behalves."
Johnny threw her a smile, her concerned expression simply adorable. "Hey, it's fine. Nothing's broken."
While it was obvious that Laura was the most careful, and Monnie gave her word, he wasn't so sure about the latter. Dot had been a huge surprise, so he was rather worried Monnie might be something bigger. But he pushed that thought to the back of his mind when Katy called him out.
"So, bullboy, where next?" she asked cooly, fiddling with her eye-phone in the process.
He then looked in Laura's direction, smiling cheekily. "Oh, I know where..."
~
Johnny led them through another corridor, locating to the next section of the ROR house. By now all the girls, with the exception of Monnie, seemed rather anticipated for what he was planning to show them. Finally, they stopped in front of two glass doors with metallic handles so gleaming one could see his or her reflection on it.
"We may go to the university gym at times," he bragged, "but if it was closed on some occasions..."
He push open the doors.
"Behold," he announced proudly, "the personal gym of the RORs."
The girls couldn't help but extend their eyes toward the view before them, drinking in what was the exercising area for the boastful fraternity. It looked similar to the interior of the campus gym, although, if one stared at it from the dawning lights of the ceiling, it was all detailed and rich in color.
The weights used for lifting and bench-pressing were lined up from smallest to biggest on a nearby corner where it was surrounded by mirrors; there was even punching bags hanging from the corner opposite it, complete with sets of gloves and a rack of towels. Treadmills and other devices that promised activity were scattered in what may be called a fashionable order, which occupied space in the big house that was massive enough to be a hotel of itself.
Colette had to admit that she wasn't one for working out, just the basic stretches and going on the treadmill did her good. Although everything looked so shiny and rich, she could imagine some good-looking men on these machines.
And no, ROR was not one of those good-looking men...although she had to admit that Javier Rios was quite a looker.
Everything just screamed wealth in the fashionista's face, and she was surprised nothing in this gym was plated with gold. Or a fountain that spurted energy juice. The mirrors sectioned in one corner of the room were a perfect touch. So perfect for her to glance at her reflection every now and then. Knowing the EEK sorority, she wondered if Johnny granted them privileges with this place. After all, from what she recognized, Carla was like some "sister" to the ROR leader...and her hot and fit purple-cladded sisters could probably dominate the aforementioned fraternity even in their own gym!
Katy whistled in astonishment, unsure how most of these machines worked. But she could see where the RORs' muscles and strength came from, especially that Reggie guy. Everything looked so new and expensive, like a fortune of fitness! She just wanted to hop on one of those bikes and take it for a spin...and hopefully not break it.
Having been a cheerleader in high school, what Katy preferred most were some basic stretches and a good mile run with paces in-between. While she didn't have muscle or had the know-how of a skilled acrobat like the ones monsters see at the circus, she could work it if she tried. Although no way in glob's name would she be able to even come close to the EEK girls. Her legs would probably break off by the time she finished only half a 24/7 workout with those princesses in purple.
The benches looked cozy, she would definitely lay on one of them...with pulling her feet up onto the weight-lifting bar and take a good nap. Everyone else could just exercise around her, she wasn't going to push herself like some muscle-bound meathead.
No offense to the JOX fraternity...especially Dirk...
Dot was quite taken by everything, having always been active in her own right. She was a bit flexible, and even those punching bags looked fun! Despite haven't not exactly punched anything before, giving she had no knuckles to curl, she knew some monsters with her skin who could really work it.
Being the tallest of the EZ sorority, she wasn't exactly the strongest. Her leader earned herself that title the moment she carried all of them out of that awful urchin-filled sewer. Still, her height could benefit sometimes, like reaching up for a higher shelf at the library or able to tape a poster on an upper section of her dorm wall.
She was, of course, thinking of joining the university's baseball team. While she may have not been a popular player in high school, she would give herself a chance with, hopefully, a better league.
After all, if she was in a sorority (like Brock Pearson, she too calls that a miracle), the baseball team could perhaps be just as easy.
Monnie had to admit that it all looked pretty nice, that the RORs sure did have the money to create a gym identical to MU's. She couldn't help but wonder if Randall ever taken his time in this section of the house when he was a ROR member.
Poor guy who only wanted to impress his so-called "friends", only resulting in pushing too much. He was doing much better in the little gym belonging to OK, of course!
Her thoughts began to drift back to the purple-scaled lizard, wondering how his visit to the hospital was going. He had been smiling the moment he and his frat brothers boarded Mrs. Carlton's van, and that was more than enough to assure Monnie that he was fine.
Johnny smiled, folding his arms as he watched the expressions of these four girls become as priceless as he had hoped. He watched as Archie laid himself beside Colette, gurgling against the mats while rubbing his belly upon the floor. As long as he didn't do anything "gross" on it, Johnny would welcome whatever the pig wanted to do in his gym. The Worthington heir glanced over to see Laura admiring the benches where he would workout at least five times a week. He smirked as he watched her run her fingers over the leather. No doubt she was even more impressed than what her expression displayed, and he mentally patted himself on the back once more.
While the girls were occupied and looking around, he took this chance and strolled over behind Laura.
"Like what you see?" he asked, grinning over her shoulder.
Laura shortly gasped before she turned to see the smiling Worthington heir tower over her, his chest puffed.
"Oh, well..." she quickly brushed her ears off her face, "I have to say it looks very welcoming."
"It's a great gym, huh?" he asked confidently.
"Of course," she responded, showing more serenity in her tone. "It reminds me of the gym back at my house."
He watched as she sat down atop the bench, gently running her paws over it. She would be the ideal motivation for him any day when he was working out here. Why just see Laura at the university's gym when she could be welcomed to come here and watch him for a change?
She then looked at him as he joined her. "I have to admit, this is a very promising place."
He chuckled before leaning back with his arms crossed. "Well, since we have the room and the funds, why not make the best use of it?"
"Then your fraternity surely knows how to construct," she added.
She watched her other sorority sisters venture around the gym, fiddling with some of the equipment and unable to keep their hands to themselves. Archie was just as active, scurrying around the mats and sniffing his new surroundings.
"I hope you don't mind they try out some of these?" she asked, gesturing toward the exercising devices.
Johnny's smile lessened for a moment, but he gave a nod. "Well, as long as they don't break anything, they can go right ahead."
A part of him was terrified that he was in for a real shocker, but what could these girls possibly break? It wasn't like they would be able to bring a treadmill to pieces with just one curious press of a button!
Still, he couldn't help but feel the incidents in the earlier parts of the tour were just a prelude for something much bigger...
But he pushed those thoughts aside, eyeing the beautiful sorority president sitting next to him. Her face was practically glowing, sky forest eyes blinking innocently in his direction.
"That's very kind of you, Mr. Worthington," she said gratefully.
He chuckled. "Seriously, Johnny, please."
"Right, I forget not to do that..." she responded with a blush.
Monnie's eyes loomed over the workout ball laying by itself on the floor. She never knew the ROR boys would even need something as simple as this, although she enjoyed it herself while she was at the MU gym.
Bending down to pick it up, she smiled as she felt around the rubber. Deciding to give it a go since the ROR leader allowed them to check everything out, she lowered herself with the ball before placing it back on the ground. She carefully balanced her chest upon it, gliding for a moment before placing her feet back down on the ground. This was pretty fun.
She glanced over to see the Worthington heir himself sitting on the bench with her sorority leader. He seemed pretty close for comfort from the looks of it...
Monnie bounced herself upon the ball, giggling softly before she stretched her arms out. Feet lifted from the ground as she pointed all her appendages in different directions, balancing her front body as she laid atop the ball.
"Check it out, guys!" she announced happily as she pretended to glide like a crane extending its wings. "I'm planking! Someone get this on their eye-phone and put it on Grumblr!"
However, in her hype to demonstrate an online meme, she started struggling. With force the ball slid her forward and she rolled onto the mat before her feet crashed into something that prevented further movement for her.
Unfortunately, it was one of the racks that held the weights. It rolled forward on its wheels before it bucked against a nearby bar with two very heavy weights. Just one single clink against the side and the entire thing toppled forward...
...right into one of the mirrors.
There was a loud crash as the weights smashed into the glass, shattering it as shards flew in all directions, landing with chilling clinks on the ground.
Johnny's head snapped up and turned away from Laura to witness what had just occurred. His eyes nearly hit the ceiling at what Monnie had done. Glass was littered all over the mats like water droplets, and his jaw fell at the display of a huge, jagged gap upon one of the workout mirrors.
Archie's tail stood on end, having been surprised by the sound of the collision. With a shriek he ran over to Laura's side, hiding under the bench between her furry legs. The Worthington heir could only gawk at the damage, then palmed his face and shook his head, holding back curses that were beyond profound.
Knowing that it would be quite some time before he could replace the mirror, Johnny should have seen this coming. Out of all of them it had to be the redhead menace with the glasses, and she had actually broken something. Out of the corner of his eye he witnessed the aforementioned three regard Monnie in question. The wannabe DJ shrugged apologetically, biting her lip as her cheeks were painted red as her hair.
As if on cue, Johnny noticed Javier peeking through the main doors. His four eyebrows rose in dismay with his jaw hitting the ground, revealing his rows of sharp teeth.
"Monnie!" Katy cried while keeping clear of all the tiny pieces of glass on the floor. "The flop did you do?"
"It was an accident!" her roommate cried desperately, entire body shaking with remorse as her tail twitched behind her.
Laura could only stare at the mess in despair. "Oh no..." she murmured before placing her face upon her hands.
Johnny let out an exasperated groan, wishing more than ever that he could have given this entire tour to Laura and her only. He had expected the redhead to do something so careless that would result in an accident, like all the other girls. But he didn't think she would actually break something! Good glob, it would take days until they had a new mirror installed to replace the one that was now pieces on the floor. He turned back to Javier, who slowly entered the gym. All four of his eyes were indescribable as he regarded the damage.
Before Johnny could say anything, he heard harsh breathing and turned to Laura. Having immediately stood up from the bench, she appeared to be on the verge of a panic attack as she clutched her chest and her teeth gnashed together.
"Oh, my glob, Johnny!" she cried hoarsely. "I am so sorry about that! Monnie didn't mean to, but still, I apologize greatly for what happened! I'll pay for the damage, I promise! I am so sorry that happened and I'll pay as quickly as possible no matter what the amount is-"
Johnny quickly stood up, grasping her hands in his, eyes gazing into her dilated ones.
"Laura! Laura!" he urged while gently shaking her. "Calm down! Breathe! Breathe!"
Laura went on mumbling a few more times, apologizing about her sorority sister and the damage, until she finally ran out of breath and began to slow down. Her breathing returned after a couple of moments. It was a short amount of seconds before she was reverted to her usual self, and Johnny was relieved. He was almost afraid she would collapse and fall unconscious and that would have resulted in calling for paramedics or other suitable medical officials.
He smiled gently, still gripping her hands. "Hey, it's alright," he assured her tenderly, "it was an accident. No biggie!"
The ROR leader noticed Javier shoot him a look of disapproval before fervently shaking his head. But Johnny glared back and the insect-monster merely shrugged before walking over to the other side of the gym to pick up a broom and dustpan.
"I am so sorry..." Laura murmured. "I should have kept my girls better in line..."
He gently caressed her paws, a move that was not unnoticed by the Sharp heiress as she tried not to shiver uncontrollably. "Don't worry. Accidents happen."
Even if most of them had occurred inside his own house...
"Glob, I can't believe this actually happened," she groaned before glancing back at the mess Monnie created.
"Calm down. I mean, it's better the mirror than the bust or portrait, right?"
"I guess you're right," she agreed mournfully.
Javier came back and cautiously began sweeping up the glass while the girls stood around keeping clear of the damage. Johnny's expression hardened as he glanced in Monnie's direction, the redhead shifting nervously with her tail limp on the ground. While it had been completely accidental...he couldn't help but think that she had wanted to do that to him. He turned back to Laura, who breathed in and out before she stared at him, fingers shaking a bit in his own.
"Um, maybe the tour should end here..." she suggested regretfully.
Johnny gawked at her in shock, trying to muster a more calming mood despite internally screaming protest. He had suffered the risk of his entire house turning upside down for the sake of her being this close to him. He didn't want to lose her, making her feel at fault for something that she certainly had no responsibility for. If only any of the other four had made the suggestion in her place, that would be at least one troubling EZ girl less...
"What? No!" he almost cried, feigning his shock. "Laura, the tour's not even over!"
"I know," she sighed, averting her gaze, "but I really don't want to make anymore trouble for you and ROR..."
Johnny could see Javier watching him intensely as the bug monster picked up glass while sweeping the rest into his dustpan, the shards clinking with ever swipe of the broom. The ROR member was clearly shaking his head, his four eyes narrowing in discouragement.
The frat president wasn't sure whether that gesture meant that the tour would result in even more destruction...or using Laura's guilt was not the best to bring her closer. Either way, Javier's expression was far from positive. The Worthington shot him an annoyed look to which the latter just rolled his eyes before returning to his work. Frown vanishing, Johnny turned back to Laura, his smile gentle as he caressed her fingers which still trembled in his hands.
"Please, I insist," he pleaded politely.
"Oh, I don't know Johnny," she said quietly, too nervous to look him in the eye. "I honestly didn't expect these sort of things to have happened with my girls, especially Dot and Monnie..."
"Accidents happen," he assured her. "And besides, um, we were planning to redo those mirrors anyway..." he added sheepishly.
"You're just saying that..." she sighed.
Johnny's fingers tightened over her own and she finally gazed into his expression of sincerity. "Look, the important thing is that no one was hurt." He then leaned toward her, face hovering over hers. "You're okay, right?"
She blinked in puzzlement, feeling her cheeks tighten. "Yes...yes, I'm fine..."
He smirked. "And, surprisingly, Archie hasn't done anything wrong since he got here. I mean, I had thought he would do something first before the others-"
"Oh, EWWWW!"
Both immediately wheeled over at Colette who stood beside the rack that held all the healthy snacks the ROR members would have to replenish their bodies. Fear gripped the Worthington heir as the fashionista pointed down at what appeared to be Archie's snout poking from behind it. Johnny peered closely, noticing wrappers of energy bars strewn all over the floor. Some of those actually contained mild laxative substances, something the ROR president had no idea was there for in the first place...
Katy came forward and looked behind the rack. She cringed.
"Um, cleanup on aisle three..." she announced.
Laura's eyes widened in horror. "Oh no...Archie..."
They heard gurgling and snorting sounds as said pig rolled into view, covered in crumbs and with an energy bar hanging from his mouth.
"Archie!" the EZ leader cried as she made her way toward the animal, her eyes narrowing in utter disbelief. "I told you to behave yourself!" She gestured for him to come over and Archie obeyed, his eyes innocent as he continued chewing on his snack.
The moment the disgusting aroma whiffed through the air the Worthington heir nearly gagged. Javier could smell it as well, the insect monster clasping two of his hands over his nose as his four eyes darted for an air refresher and mop. He should have taken precautions to locking up the workout food supply! Now here the pig ate almost everything in sight, and left a good amount of it right on the mat!
No doubt they would need to order a whole new stock of healthy snacks...along with the new mirror.
Johnny watched as Laura scolded Archie, the little pig wagging his tail trying to appear like an innocent victim. Like a mother discipling her child, the Sharp heiress was trying to make the animal understand right and wrong. He should have never tempted fate like that, saying something first and then suddenly it became real! He wished Laura hadn't brought the pig over, heck, he wished she hadn't brought her sisters over! Even the most dimwitted of the PNK girls wouldn't have caused this much chaos, and she was known to have caused an accident or two trying to be like MU's official cheerleaders! Even the terrifying menace of the HSS leader herself wouldn't create trouble with her own fingers, and her touch was worse as her bite; and sometimes the other way around...
Laura felt her cheeks heat up with embarrassment, unable to believe Archie had done something so awful! This was even worse than that time at Fear Tech when she allowed one of the frat monsters to watch over the pig. Although that guy insisted that it had been all an accident and he could always buy a new jacket, it still ached her.
She bent down and picked up Archie, who snorted and gurgled after having consumed one too many snacks that contained the most powerful of nutrients. She glanced over at the other girls, who were practically gagging and holding their breaths at the sight of what Archie had left on the floor. Laura winced as Archie wagged his tail, and she was careful when holding him, knowing it was still fresh on him...
Although Johnny was enraged beyond his mind, animals were animals. He approached Laura and laid a gentle hand on her shoulder. When she looked at him, he nearly melted at the sight of those gorgeous eyes that shone with nothing but regret. Beautiful girl like her shouldn't feel ashamed...even if her pet had stunk up his entire gym.
"Oh, my gosh, I am just so sorry!" she cried.
Johnny tried to force himself not to gag at the awful smell. "Don't worry, we'll clean it up."
He looked down Archie in Laura's arms, and Johnny tried not to frown as the pig's tongue flopped out of his mouth, as if not realizing the error of his actions.
"Cute little guy..." Johnny muttered. "Yeah, it's all good..."
"Well, if you say so..." Laura trailed, unconvinced.
Johnny noticed Javier palming his face with the urge to throw up as he stepped closer to the mess Archie left. The insect monster then eyed him with his usually poker face, which tightened along with his lips that spoke everything from his mind.
Johnny knew what the other was thinking, but by glob, he was going to do all he could to keep Laura beside him! Even if it meant suffering any "gifts" given by the little hog himself. He glanced over at Laura, who held Archie to her chest, rubbing him lovingly despite being very upset with him.
"Um, maybe I should leave and you continue the tour with the others. After all, I am responsible for Archie..."
She looked up at Johnny, who placed a clawed hand on her shoulder to reassure her.
"Laura, the tour wouldn't be complete without everyone in your sorority," he told her, while deep down the tour would be better without her sorority at all, "and besides, maybe I can have one of my brothers watch him."
"Really?" she asked.
Johnny just looked at her, that angelic face warming his heart in ways only guys with even half a chance could feel. By glob, she was in his own house, and there was no way in heck he was going to let her slip through his fingers just because one of her friends had just costed him hundreds of dollars for repairs. He gave his best puppyish but charming look he could create, fingers gently rubbing upon her shoulder.
"Please? Stay?"
He smirked, seeing his trick was working as Laura regarded him with mixture of remorse and flattery.
"Well, sure, if you insist," she finally said.
Johnny silently breathed a sigh of relief, but he noticed Javier shoot him an expression of disapproval. His frown deepened as he gestured to the Scare pig. Johnny gave the bug another warning glare and the insect monster just scowled before collecting more glass shards.
Laura continuously stroked Archie. "Heavens to glob, Archibald, you can't just do stuff like that! It's bad enough what Monnie did..."
Johnny glanced over at the cracked mirror, like a half the shell of an egg as more bits of the decoration crinkled tiny fragments onto the floor. That side would be temporarily restricted for the time being. He looked over at where the other girls were, one of them having nonchalantly grabbed an energy bar that had been spared by the Scare pig. He grimaced a bit, watching as Dot unwrapped the treat before eating it, much to the disgust of the other three who chided her about how it could have possibly been in Archie's mouth. Good glob, they were going to destroy his house! Even ROR parties were not this dangerous! He turned back to Laura and her pet, eyes raising when he saw the latter rubbing his nose against the EZ leader's chest.
"Calm down, Archie!" Laura actually laughed. "Glob, you ate too many energy bars!"
Archie gurgled, extending his jaw before his tongue flopped out like an excited dog. He knew he was winning, his owner unable to be angry at him for long.
Johnny couldn't help but watch with envy at all the attention the pig was receiving. He then rolled his eyes at Dot who was still chewing on the energy bar and saying how good it was while Colette and Katy were trying not to barf. Monnie herself was trying to plank again on the workout ball, but taking much more care now as she kept her legs on the mats. He had to them out of this place before any more accidents would occur and cost the ROR fraternity even more money in repairs!
But first things first, the pig needed to be looked after.
"Um, maybe Archie should stay somewhere where he won't cause trouble?" Johnny reminded the EZ leader.
Laura caressed Archie's ears, sucking in her cheeks. "Sure. But who?"
Johnny then turned in Javier's direction, only to witness him scurry out of the gym just in time. That was a definite no right there. The Worthington heir mentally groaned, wondering how he was going to deal with the pig. He certainly didn't want him stinking up the entire ROR residence, and he refused to have him intervene between the frat president and the attractive new sorority captain.
Suddenly, as if on the cue, the sound of the gym's front doors opened and closed. Before them scuttled in no other than Chet, the crab-like monster whistling a merry tune as he entered. However, his lips cut short and he cringed at the smell lingering through the gym.
"Oh, man!" he cried, waving his larger claw to fan away the stench. "The glop is that smell?"
He then turned to Johnny, completely ignoring the other girls as he approached his idol.
"Just got back from some serious gaming down at the campus rec-room," he stated, holding his nose. "You won't believe how much those guys stunk when I got through with them on the lobby's game consoles. Totally wiped the smirk off their faces! Of course, like you said: Don't mess with a ROR!"
A lightbulb suddenly flashed in Johnny's brain as he watched the youngest ROR member finally take notice of the broken mirror. While he made sure the girls were occupied with whatever was left to entertain them, Johnny dragged Chet by the smaller claw into another part of the gym where they would be out of earshot. He placed a hand on the latter's shoulder before Chet looked up at him in confusion.
"Hey, buddy, I need you to do me a favor," Johnny told him urgently.
Chet regarded him in question. "Uh, sure, what is it?" he asked before his single eye fell on the glass that was still on the floor.
Johnny jerked in the direction of Archie who laid snuggled in Laura's arms. "Keep an eye on the pig."
The crab's eye rose in surprise. "Archie? Isn't he always with Laura?"
"Exactly, right now she and her little sorority are going to be with me," Johnny whispered, "and the last thing I want is for that animal to whiz on my carpet."
Chet tried to force the smell out of his nostrils. "Man, what happened during the tour?"
Johnny groaned, throwing his hands up in the air. "Oh, my glob, Chet, it was awful! And one of those girls broke a mirror in the gym!"
"I noticed," Chet muttered, glancing back at the half-cracked display. "Although I thought if anyone it would be Reggie's fault..."
Johnny scoffed. "No, it was that darn "bodyguard" of Randall's..."
"Monnie girl?" the youngest ROR questioned. "Doesn't she hate you?"
"How many monsters don't?" Johnny grunted. "And that pig? Holy glop, he left something in the gym!"
Chet gulped, holding down his lunch as he stood before his leader. "I don't like the way your eyes twitch, Johnny..."
The president gripped both of Chet's shoulders, looking him in the eye with desperation. "Just please, watch over the little guy, alright?"
"What am I suppose to do with him?" the crab cried before jerking in the direction of the pig.
"Take him out if he needs to go!" Johnny spoke with exasperation. "Who knows when he's going to do number one! Just get him out of here so I can take care of the tour and Laura!"
With that said he left Chet with his mouth hanging open before the ROR leader made his way toward said sorority president. Johnny smiled pleasantly to Laura before he gestured toward the smaller monster.
Next thing Chet knew, the pig was already in his claws, snorting loudly and whining like a monster child refusing to go to the doctor.
Johnny smiled with relief, thankful that he was now one problem less. He turned to Laura, who tried to smile with confidence.
"Um, Chet will be okay, right?" she asked nervously.
He chuckled, not caring what his "little brother" had to do as long as it was away from him. "Don't worry about it, he'll be fine!" He rubbed the back of his head. "So, how about we go to the ROR rec room?"
Laura thought for a moment, then nodded politely. "Sure."
Grinning, the Worthington heir watched as Monnie nearly tumbled off the ball, having kept careful the second time before she joined the others. These exercising balls should be deflated after use, so his brothers could endure the workout of blowing them up again. He kept close by Laura, smiling charmingly at her while the other girls followed behind them.
He peered over his shoulder, relieved to see Chet still had Archie in his grasp. The pig was squirming and whining, but even someone as foolish as the young ROR could handle a job like this.
Dot chewed happily after finishing her bar. "This is pretty good! No wonder Archie ate a lot of them!"
Colette looked at her in disgust, hands to her chest and moving away from the taller girl. "Oh, ew! What if his drool ended up on that?"
Dot smacked her lips. "Oh, come on! This was still in its wrapper, and it's supper tasty!""
The Worthington heir tried not the gag further, breathing in new air as they finally exited out of that reeking gym room.
~
It was some time before they ventured through a different hallway and stopped in front of two similar doors.
"Here we are," Johnny announced proudly as he pushed them open, "the recreation room."
Laura and the girls stepped in, and they felt their eyes widen and jaws drop at the apparent beauty of the whole place. It resembled those bars seen in downtown Monstropolis, with a small counter and some couches in the surrounding area. Expensive wood and intricately carved pillars extended to the ceiling and potted plants were seen placed around the room. There was even a pool table and ping pong table, as well as many game consoles with their controllers stashed in the huge television with surround sound systems which would make a movie goer green with envy. Chandeliers glowed brightly from the ceiling, and the overall space looked like an excellent place to unwind and relax after a long day of studying.
Dot's green eyes glowed like traffic lights as she drank in the large game systems and controllers. Being a rabid game fanatic, she just wanted to sit down and play some Informative Duty. Owning a game device of her own as well as screwing around with her computer on random online games, this was a major step-up!
Katy looked around, quite taken by the large room that an entire dance floor could take place in it. It was pretty hot, and she could imagine a real frat party would get crazy in the place. And those ping pong tables were pretty nice, even though she couldn't play to save her life.
Colette regarded the couches with desire, wishing she could just flop down on them and take off her shoes. She would be in paradise to sink into those cushions. What would make it even more perfect is laying in some hot guy's arms while snuggling on any of these pieces of furniture.
Monnie, having gotten over the incident in the gym, had to admit that everything seemed quite cozy and clean. Randall must have enjoyed this place whenever he had free time. The game systems proved so much entertainment that she would want to give her hand at challenging other supposed gamers.
Laura smiled, having witnessed such fine decor before, especially in her own house. Floors felt quite nice under her feet and the atmosphere felt so inviting and serene. She eyed one of the couches rather hopefully, wanting to just sit down and rest her legs.
Johnny smirked at her, noticing where her eyes laid. "Care to sit?"
She looked at him, and with a silent nod she gracefully made her way over to the piece of furniture. Leaning back on it the moment her bottom hit the cushion, she emitted a deep sigh as her ears flopped at the back of her head. The Worthington heir joined beside her, legs crossed as one of his hands laid at the arm of the couch. He smiled as he watched those nice wings fall down, having been tucked recently.
"Feels good, huh?" he asked.
Laura smiled, her entire body winding down. "Oh, glob, I could just sleep right now and never wake up..."
Colette inspected the paddle in her hands, as if wondering how a device could provide an interesting game. She recalled back at the JOX party how Mrs. Carlton completely dominated that Javier guy, and that was completely difficult in any monster's eyes. And Colette was not the sportive type.
Katy walked up beside her, putting on her best face as if trying to appear like some ping pong professional. She may not be the so-called King Kong of Ping Pong, but she could probably get a few victories in the bag.
"This stuff is like super hard," Colette commented.
Katy chuckled. "It's all a matter of hand-eye coordination."
She took the paddle from Colette, having picked up a ball from the bucket on the floor beneath the table. Colette watched with mild interest as the aquatic held it in her view, twirling the paddle in the other hand.
"I mean, Mrs. Carlton kicked butt with this, how hard can it be for me?" the Vocal Music major asked confidently.
Tossing the ball up in the air, the moment it hit the table and bounced back up again, Katy swung at it as if she was playing hardcore tennis. It was quite a strike as the ball flung high across the table...
...and smacked the Worthington heir square off the cheek.
Johnny let out a grunt and shot up almost immediately, nearly startling Laura as he winced and rubbed his cheek. He inspected his surroundings before his eyes fell on the pink-skinned EZ girl. Katy held her paddle with a skittish grin, and Colette with a hand to her mouth as she suppressed her giggles. Dot and Monnie had noticed and the former was trying hard not to laugh much like the latter who was unable to force down her snorts.
"Ooh..." Katy winced. "My bad..."
Johnny groaned, rubbing his cheek. Well, it was better him than Laura again. He turned to the Sharp heiress, and he felt immediate warmth when she regarded him worriedly.
"Oh, my gosh, are you okay?" she asked with sincere concern.
He smirked to himself, wondering if he could earn more "Laura lovin'" with this. He rubbed his cheek a bit more soothingly, as if the impact of the ball had struck one of his teeth from inside.
"Don't worry, it just stings a bit," he muttered. He then glanced at her, placing on his best charming but puppy-like expression. "Think maybe you can check it for me?"
For the moment he thought she was going to deny his request, but lo and behold her hands reached toward his face. Her fingers just inches away from touching the jaw of the proud monster who especially prided himself on all his perfect teeth...
CRASH!
They both nearly jumped at the sound of something loudly hitting the floor. Johnny's fears rose before he and Laura turned toward the accident right in front of them.
His eyes nearly bugged out at the sight of the ping pong table having teetered onto the ground, one end dipped while the other half stuck up. Ping pong balls rolled everywhere and the rest of EZ could only stand around as prime suspects. They immediately pointed toward Katy, who flinched before pointing at Archie who was gnawing on a lone ball.
"It was his fault!" Katy claimed.
"Archie?" Laura asked in surprise. "Boy, what are you doing here?"
She approached the distracted Scare pig with a raised eyebrow, bending down to caress his orange fur. She then turned back to the mess, staring at the ping pong table with shock.
"What happened?" she asked the other girls.
Colette shuffled her heels a bit. "Um, well when he got here Katy decided to try and play some fetch with one of those ping pong balls," she explained. "But then Archie knocked out one of the table legs and well..." she gestured at the scene Johnny and Laura were seeing, "this happened."
His jaw was beginning to hurt as it fell to the ground for the umpteenth time, and Johnny could only glower in the animal's direction. Chet was suppose to pig-sit the little guy, and he let him out of his sight so easily! And yet another form of disaster had been accomplished under his roof!
Worst of all, it came right at the moment he was enjoying the attention Laura was about to lavish on him!
And that table was Javier's personal favorite! If he so much as noticed the table tampered with or damaged, the Worthington heir would have no doubt the insect monster would throw a fit. The usually quiet ROR monster wouldn't be silent any longer once he witnessed this...
He turned to Laura, who looked incredibly upset as she carried Archie in her arms. She rocked him like a newborn baby, bouncing him a bit against her chest as she glanced back at the ROR president nervously.
"I am so sorry about what Archie did-"
"No, no, it's fine..." he assured her, half-beating himself up over the ever so close attempt that had occurred between them. "I mean, he didn't actually break the table, that's good."
Before he could even think, all heads turned at the sound of skittering. Javier, having finished cleaning up the glass and other particular mess, entered the recreation room. He abruptly stopped when he saw his beloved ping pong table in disarray.
The insect monster felt his four eyes enlarge and he wheeled toward Johnny, then at Laura, and then at the various EZ girls before his expression fell on Archie who was gnawing on one of the ping pong balls. He then regarded the ping pong table, which was leaning to the side with its paddles scattered all over the floor with the bucket of ping pong balls rolling around in all directions. One hit his foot and Javier could only stare down at it for a few moments before looking up again.
Everyone in the room held their breaths as the insect monster let out a soft growl of annoyance before his attention focused on Johnny again. Quickly gesturing with a clawed hand, Javier made it evident that he needed to talk with his "beloved" president.
Johnny tugged his collar, coughing nervously as he bared witness to Javier's expression. "Excuse me, ladies, I need to talk to my frat brother for a few moments."
Flashing an assuring smile at Laura, the Worthington heir quickly scrambled over to Javier. The latter said nothing, his lips tightening before he led his leader toward a corner of the room too far for any of their guests to hear them. The moment they were alone, Javier finally spoke.
And his voice was as terrifying as his scare.
"LOOK WHAT THEY DID!" he boomed.
Johnny blinked, having rarely seen Javier so angry. While he was usually silent, he did speak well, that Hispanic accent of his displaying his discreet personality. Of course, when things got really awful, he would be a raging volcano that would make Reggie seem perfectly angelic.
"Hey, buddy, calm down!" the ROR leader exclaimed, holding his hands up in defense.
"Those four are going to destroy our house, Worthington!" Javier grunted furiously.
"Yeah, I know, but-"
"Couldn't you just throw them out and keep Laura?" the insect demanded. "I mean, isn't that what this whole tour was for, anyway?"
Johnny quickly glanced over his shoulder, relieved to see none of the girls had heard him. "How was I suppose to know that Dot girl would be the one coming here first?" he asked harshly. "She's the one who started all this! And I can't exactly change it up!"
Javier threw all four of his hands up in aggravation. "One of them broke a mirror!"
The Worthington heir shrugged. "I know, but I'm paying for the damage, anyway."
"And don't get me started on that pig!" Javier snapped.
The Worthington heir winced. "Don't remind me. I think I'll just work out in the campus gym until the repairs are made."
"You sure you're not just wanting to do that so you could see Sharp again?" the other ROR asked with a roll of his eyes.
Johnny scoffed. "I don't see you ogling anyone. Heck, I'm pretty much the only ROR here who's talking about some lady he's got his eye on. All four of yours are doing nothing but staring into space!"
For a moment, the Worthington heir thought he saw a flicker of anger in those fuchsia eyes of his. But Javier merely scowled before jerking a claw toward the four EZ girls.
"Just take them somewhere else!" he nearly barked.
"What do you suggest?" Johnny countered, folding his arms.
Javier merely sighed. "Take them back to the living room. I made chili and sandwiches. That should keep them from wrecking our house."
"Huh," Johnny rubbed his chin, "that's not a bad idea. Good call, Rios."
"And maybe can we keep the Scare Pig outside the house?" Javier added bitterly.
"Oh, come on, the little guy was just starting to like me!" Johnny insisted.
Javier held up his fingers. "Four cans of spray, Worthington! And I can still smell it!"
"It'll dry out eventually," Johnny assured him. "Plus, come on, this is Archie. Fear Tech's mascot...he's practically ours, man!"
"More Laura's..." Javier muttered.
"True, but he's a good little guy. And you know, it was your own fault for not locking up the snacks in the gym."
"It was Chet's fault!" Javier nearly roared.
The Worthington heir rolled his eyes. "I'll talk to him later, but right now, some ladies are waiting for me."
Javier look unimpressed. "Doesn't that one with the glasses hate you?"
The ROR leader scoffed. "Monstre? Okay, it's not "hate" as much as it's a "strong dislike"."
"Have you even talked to Randall more nicely since the kick-off?"
Johnny lowered his gaze. "No..." he mumbled.
"See what I mean?" Javier chuckled coldly.
Johnny glowered at him. "Look, just take care of the pig while I take care of Laura!"
"Don't forget the other girls," Javier pointed add. "Little home wreckers..." he muttered under his breath.
As if on cue, the crab monster himself rushed into the room. Nearly out of breath, his single eye observed everything in front of him before falling on Archie in Laura's arms.
"Oh, man, there you are!" he cried.
He then flashed a grin in Johnny and Javier's direction, only for it to quickly disappear the moment the latter glared daggers in his direction.
"Uh, something happen?" Chet asked uneasily.
~
While Johnny took the girls out, back in the recreation room Javier watched as Chet peeked through the flap of the cardboard box. Inside laid Archie who huddled under its legs, gurgling softly and relaxed for the moment.
"He'll need to go any moment," the insect pointed out, keeping clear of any stench the pig might unleash.
"He looks like he's getting cranky," Chet noticed. "Rios, take him out for a sec."
Javier stared at him in disbelief. "Are you kidding me, Alexander?"
The crab monster rolled his single eye before pointing a claw toward the taller being. "I've been taking care of him since Johnny dumped him on me! It's your turn!"
Javier realized that Chet did have a point, and the four-eyed monster himself had involuntarily decided to assist.
"Fine..." he grumbled.
Reaching into the box, Javier held onto the Scare pig carefully as he lifted the animal. He prayed that he wouldn't receive something from the little troublemaker. Well at least he appeared to be well taken care of, and he looked acceptably clean and healthy...
...until Archie snorted and sneezed right onto Javier's jacket, and the insect monster gave a hiss of shock, dropping him onto the floor.
Chet tried to bite over his lip to conceal his laughter at the misfortune, but it was no use. He hiccuped and guffawed while Javier was furiously using all four of his hands to wipe himself. By then neither noticed Archie having scurried off.
Javier glared at him before his four eyes searched for the Scare pig, and Chet stopped laughing and also noticed that Archie was missing as well.
"Where's that pig?" Javier cried, looking down between his legs.
Chet then noticed the recreation room's door opened.
"Um, that way?" he gestured with a claw.
The blood drained from their faces, realizing that the trouble-making animal was loose.
"Oy, problema!" Javier cried drastically. "Si promblema! He's going to wreck our house!"
"He already did!" Chet snapped.
They both threw open the recreation room's doors and ran out into the corridor. They saw Archie scurrying around the corner leading to the living room.
"Javier, there!" Chet cried.
Javier extended all four of his hands out. "Come here, you!"
Both lunged at the pig but he seemed too quick even for RORs as he hopped out of their grasp. How was it Oozma Kappa could capture him yet they couldn't? It was humiliating and RORs were suppose to be the best monsters on campus!
Both ROR monsters ran after the Scare pig, who dodged under couches and tables and nearly toppled over an expensive vase of flowers or even cabinets where they kept trophies. Archie snorted in terror as he ran, trying to get back to his owner's side.
"Grab the little wise guy by the tail!" Chet demanded.
"That's cruel right there!" Javier pointed out. "Remember, he's an innocent animal!"
"Innocent my claw!" Chet spat. "He nearly peed on me just now!"
Then they saw Archie scurrying up one of the larger tables filled with trophies, and Chet gave a gasp of horror.
"No! No, you stupid hog! Not there!"
But Archie didn't listen as his side rammed onto the leg of the trophy case during his escape.
Thankfully, it toppled onto the couch, but a few slid right off the table as it crashed to the ground. Luckily, Javier managed to catch all of them while Chet clacked after the Scare pig on his four legs. Wiping some sweat off his face, Javier quickly put the trophies back as best as he could and thanking glob that there was no serious damage.
He closed its doors before looking over his shoulder to see Chet give the pig even more chase, racing around the room like two cars on a speed track. Each had six legs, so it was an even match.
Much as he would like to help, Javier waited for a proper moment as he stood in one corner and blocked the exit with his knees hunched like a football player.
Chet's claws raised as he neared the frightful Scare pig. Archie snorted and gurgled, wanting to just find Laura and eat more food.
"Come here, you!" Chet growled angrily.
And with a mighty cry he lunged at the animal...
...only to bang into Javier as they both toppled over, and Archie leaped over their heads and ran into yet another room of the ROR house. Javier shoved Chet off him and then pushed himself up, just in time to see Archie disappear into the corridor.
"Where did he go?" he demanded.
"Get him!" Chet ordered.
They both chased after the Scare pig, who was running down the corridor and nearly knocking off various expensive decor and proud items in his path. Thankfully, Javier and Chet managed to save almost all of them, except for a small trophy that got dented when it fell off the table Archie bumped into. The Scare Pig ran for the kitchen, his nose having immediately picked up a pleasing aroma that made him trail drool on the floor.
"Okay, that thing is cheesing me off!" Chet exclaimed with exasperation.
Javier rubbed the dented prize he caught, wincing. "Reggie is going to go crazy when he sees what happened to his wrestling trophy..."
Chet ignored him as he glanced from one corner to the other. "Alright, where did that little guy go?"
They nearly jumped at the sound of what could have been pots and pans hitting the floor and Javier's four eyes nearly shot to the ceiling.
"The kitchen," he gasped before dashing off in its direction.
By the time they got there, Archie had already scarfed down half a tray of sandwiches Javier had prepared for the girls. The pig was covered in crumbs and condiments, practically rolling himself on the floor and eating what he could reach.
Fuming, the two ROR monsters had him cornered and made a successful grab at him.
~
Carla walked out of the EEK house, hauling behind a trash bag that had nearly overflowed from the food splurge her girls had enjoyed earlier. They could easily burn all these calories off, but having her house stink was something she could not tolerate.
She made her way over to the trash can that was set near the sorority residence, just barely full before the next pick-up. Dumping her garbage into it, her fins perked up at the sound of loud shuffling before her eyes glanced in the direction of the ROR house.
She watched in surprise when it was Javier who threw the door open, and quickly but carefully placed Archie the Scare pig down on the porch. With a huff the insect monster slammed the door shut, the animal wagging his tongue out of its mouth as if it didn't realize what had just occurred.
The EEK president had a feeling things wouldn't go so smoothly for this so-called tour, and she only hoped the house wouldn't set on fire by the time it was done.
_
Javier had managed to clean everything up and replace the consumed sandwiches just in time as his frat leader entered the kitchen. The EZ girls were lounging around the living room with the TV on, taking a break from "causing destruction" to the frat's home.
Johnny glanced down and smiled at the trays of various mini sandwiches and the hearty chili made by the chef of ROR. "Awesome, Laura will love this."
The insect Scare student just muttered under his breath, not in the mood after having been run ragged by the likes of a mere pig. Johnny didn't even notice, sampling one of the small delicacies while also regarding the tub of ice cream prepared for serving atop the counter.
"I'm done here," Javier growled as he stomped out of the kitchen, leaving Johnny mildly confused.
The Worthington heir just shook his head. "Hater..." he muttered.
"Johnny?"
The sound of a familiar soft voice grabbed his ears before he wheeled around toward the entrance of the kitchen. His eyes lit up in amazement when there stood the EZ leader herself, and with no pig or fellow sister behind her. Laura shifted her legs a bit, hands clasped together as she gave the most polite yet mature smile she could offer.
Johnny fought the urge to straighten his ROR sweater as he gave her an inviting grin, leaning back against the counter as he drank her appearance.
"Oh, hey," he greeted, adding as much charm to his tone as he could.
Laura held her head high once more, looking him straight in the eye as she spoke. "I just want to thank you again for inviting my sorority over here," she told him with sincerity in her tone. "You're a very generous monster, Mr. Wor...Johnny." she quickly corrected with an apologetic gaze.
The Worthington heir smirked, feeling that all that trouble he went through had earned him greatly. Alone in the kitchen with the Sharp heiress, and not an accident in sight. Although he did hope her sorority sisters wouldn't destroy his living room...
"Generous, huh?" Johnny chuckled.
The former Fear Tech student bit back to desire to simply confess that she had seem him drop those gifts on OK's doorstep that morning. But knowing how discreet Johnny wanted to be about this, especially having done something nice for his considered rivals, Laura kept this discovery in the dark. Maybe some other time she would tell him, but not now.
Still, for some strange reason, when she thought back to how Johnny had held determination in setting those instruments just right, it made her realize that perhaps a part of him was simplly...warm.
True, she could immediately see that he was quite boastful and aimed to impress the crowds. Not to mention he appeared to flirt with her a number of times which she hardly noticed at all.
But still, she could see that he truly was a kind and sweet monster.
That was something Carla had only mentioned with a slight twitch of her lips. Laura could see that maybe the EEK leader was the considered "best friend" of the ROR president. Because glob knows Carrie and Rosie openly spoke trash when it came to Johnny, and even Big Red had some gut feelings that the Worthington heir could try something any moment. Whatever that was...
Shifting awkwardly, her eyes fell on the tub of ice on the counter behind him.
"Is this food for us?" she asked.
Johnny smiled before gesturing to the dessert, knowing that Javier was quite the cook that attracted the right attention.
"Of course, Sharp," he answered, "want some before your sisters take it all?"
She laughed softly. "Well, if you insist..."
He watched as she took the spoon and scooped some into her mouth, licking her lips and savoring the creamy substance. Leaning back onto the counter, he felt they could stay like this for some time before having to serve to her sorority.
Carla had chided him that conversation was a good way to approach the opposite gender. Any topic would work as she demonstrated having spoken about how her car having gotten cut off on the freeway or the time Violet had used up all the hot water in the EEK house.
She encouraged that whatever Johnny had in mind to talk about would be a great conversation-starter.
"So," he began casually, "dated anyone recently?"
~
Katy groaned as her feet slammed upon the coffee table in front of her. No ROR boy was in sight to see that, and she didn't damage it.
Slumping against the couch, she eyed Colette who was checking herself in the mirror for the umpteenth time. Dot was laying against the recliner looking over her phone while Monnie curled against her end of the couch, red hair tussled onto the arm of it.
"I'm hungry..." Katy muttered almost miserably. "Where's the food, man?"
"Let's just wait," Dot insisted with a cheerful demeanor. "Maybe they need more time to whip something up."
"Glob, I'll eat anything!" Katy cried as she gazed at the TV. "So bored right now..."
Monnie thought for a moment, rubbing her head against the couch with her glasses nearly sliding off her face. "You think Oozma Kappa is doing okay in the hospital?"
The mention of the fraternity made Katy's fins rise as she gritted her teeth. But she dared not show her concern as she buried the back of her head further against the cushions.
"At least they're having a better time right now," she murmured. "Glob, we got to do something to pass the time."
It was then Dot almost bounced on her feet, raising her head up that her gelatin-like locks flew in all directions.
"I know!" she exclaimed happily. "Let's go exploring again!"
The other girls regarded her carefully before it was Katy who snorted.
"Explore where?" the Vocal Music major asked. "I think bullboy showed us everything in the house."
Dot's expression faded as she leaned back onto the chair. "Just a suggestion..."
She stroked her chin with a fingerless hand, pondering up ways to help brighten her sorority sisters' moods.
"You know, when I'm bored, I usually draw," she suggested. "You guys want to do that?"
Monnie glanced at her then to the other two girls on the couch with her. "You know, that sounds like a nice idea. Doodling seems okay."
Katy looked on in mild defeat, knowing she had nothing that could probably top that.
"Well, sure," she said. "Problem is, where do we get paper?"
Heads rose at the sound of skittering and just emerging from a nearby corridor was no other than Chet himself. Smiling calmly, he made his way into the living room and intended to reach the stairs.
Dot's eyes lit up as she waved at him. "Hey, Chad!"
The crab stopped in his tracks before turning to the four girls in his direction. He winced at the incorrect name-calling, and wondered if this was indeed better than being called "Chex Mix".
"It's Chet, actually," he told her as he approached them.
"My bad," Dot apologized, smiling sheepishly. "Um, we were wondering something. You got any paper? The girls and I agreed to do some drawing while we wait." She flashed a grin in the other EZ members' direction.
Chet thought for a moment, snipping his claw absentmindedly. It wouldn't hurt to fulfill this request. Nothing harmful in handing out paper. Until someone got a cut...
"Well, I don't have paper," the youngest ROR admitted. "But I'm sure Johnny does. He has a lot in his room."
At the mention of the Worthington heir's quarters, Katy's body rose from the couch.
"Johnny's...room?" she asked carefully.
A mischievous grin played on her lips as she held her hands behind her back.
"Any chance we could, um, go there to get some?" she asked, trying to sound cute no matter how much she felt ridiculous doing it.
The most naive of the RORs didn't even need a second thought as he smiled up at the EZ girl. He then excitedly beckoned for them to follow him up the stairs.
"I'll take you there!" he announced nicely. "The door's open, and I'm sure he won't mind!"
Colette, Monnie, and Dot wheeled toward Katy who was already following the smaller monster up the steps. They immediately scrambled to their feet and it was Colette who got right in Katy's face.
"Are you crazy?" the fashionista hissed. "The frat president's room?"
Katy smirked. "Hey, Worthington said that he would let us see his whole house. And he didn't say we couldn't check out his place." She chuckled in Colette's direction. "Besides, don't you want to see how at least one of these guys live it up? For all I know, he might have a bed made of gold in there."
Colette stopped in her tracks for a moment, and the sheer thought that maybe Johnny's room being more glamorous than hers gripped her. She and Monnie exchanged a look, the latter pretty much neutral in the entire plan.
It was Dot who rubbed her hands nervously, glancing back at the living room where they were suppose to be. She had a feeling they could get in trouble, and Katy had already challenged both the law and CDA.
But she said nothing, knowing that if whatever the crab monster's name was permitted them to do this, then maybe everything would be fine. And she honestly did feel the least bit keen on seeing an actual frat bedroom.
~
As he led the girls up to the second floor, Chet wondered if he needed to reconsider his offer. He usually went into Johnny's room when his idol was present, and here he was taking four non-Scaring students up to get paper.
But perhaps Johnny wouldn't mind. After all he did say to treat the EZ girls as special guests, and cater to them as best as ROR boys could.
Once they made it to the second floor, passing through a wide corridor that indicated the rooms of the ROR brothers, he smiled to himself as they neared the center door that was at the end of the hall.
"Ladies," Chet said confidently, placing his claw on the door, "this is Johnny's room."
The moment he turned the knob and pushed it open, all four of them were a loss for words as they gazed at the interior.
As expected of the fraternity president, his room was perhaps even more extravagant than any part of the ROR house. They saw the amount of trophies and furniture crammed into his room, along with sigils of ROR being everywhere, even on the carpet and walls. A large framed family portrait accommodated one side of the wall, displaying the Worthington members in all its glory. Even his bed was huge, with red and gold sheets that matched the frat sweaters, and there was even a little library of books that took over one corner of the room, right next to a study area with a wonderfully-crafted desk.
Colette felt a wave of fashion sense overcome her, unable to believe that a frat monster could be given such luxuries. Her eyes sparkled as red and gold hit her in the face. Two colors that just fit so well, like an evening gown and necklace. Everything about the room was just so big and inviting, and with a few personal touches like glittery flowers and stuffed animals it would be a second space for her!
Katy watched on, unable to believe that something that appeared out of hotel magazines could be someone's bedroom. She must be calling herself crazy to consider the Worthington guy date worthy, recalling his evident finances. Having come from a far-from-rich household, this was like a slap in the face to her.
In a good sort of way...
Dot could not believe she was gazing at an actual bedroom, which was the size of the art studio she used to volunteer at back home. She could run around this joint and paint like crazy! Or simply lounge on the massive king-sized bed and snuggle against the silky pillows. She liked big spaces, and this was a house within a house!
For Monnie, she had to admit, it was all pretty nice and she understood that Randall must have been well-provided for when he had been formerly a ROR boy.
But not even money would convince her.
It may have all been glamour and glory, but she was only impressed by design and not even close would it change her views on the Worthington heir. It was always the rich guys who would be the biggest snobs, and Johnny was the epitome of that this instant.
Chet smiled, watching their expressions of awe. "Yeah, pretty cool, huh?"
He then gestured toward the study where some papers were neatly stacked together and angled perfectly with the shape of the desk.
"There's the paper," he motioned.
However, none of them heard him. And his single eye watched in immediate terror when it was Dot who was unable to contain her childish curiosity.
Before he could protest, the Art major ran over to the bed, and flopped herself onto the soft mattress and pillows.
"Oh, my glob!" she swooned as she rolled onto her back and stared at the ceiling. "This feels like Heaven!"
She then thrashed and squirmed upon the sheets playfully like it was some sort of fun house, while rest of the girls decided to explore at their own free will. Chet could only watch in despair as they treated his leader's bedroom as if it was their own sorority house.
Colette began hogging the vanity mirror, fiddling with whatever was present on the table. She had picked up a brush that was meant to care for Johnny's fur and lovingly stroked it upon her hair. She smiled at her reflection, ruby brown eyes glittering with adoration toward herself.
Monnie's eyes were glazed over the interesting library as her four hands inspected from one book to the next. Not all of them were old but quite brand new or something more related to the average college student. She began pulling out thick magazines and even comics, and in her haste a good amount of books began falling to the floor with loud thuds.
Chet watched as Dot continued spreading herself upon Johnny's bed, her weight shoving pillows around and even bouncing on it when she could.
He suddenly noticed that Katy was missing!
He nearly jumped at the sound of a large crash coming from the personal bathroom. The door flung open to reveal the cool-minded aquatic herself, a few rolls of toilet paper in her arms and a wild look in her eyes.
"Let's TP the house!" she exclaimed excitedly before flinging a roll in Colette's direction.
The tiny-horned female gave a yelp of surprise as soft tissue struck her right behind the head. She glared in Katy's direction, the other girl showing no regret as she smirked back. Fuming, the fashionista grabbed the roll and hurled it back.
Only it had hit Monnie on the thigh. Eyes widening beneath her glasses, the DJ enthusiast giggled before flinging a magazine right back at Colette.
Chet could only watch in horror, realizing he made a grave mistake. He quickly dodged an incoming toilet paper roll which hit Dot in his place.
Grunting in surprise, the orange sorbet colored monster smiled happily before grabbing one of the pillows she had been hugging.
"Think fast!" Dot hollered before hurling the pillow straight at Colette.
The pillow hit the fashionista square in the face, and landed with a soft thump at her feet. Gasping and spluttering from the impact, Colette watched the grin expand on Dot's cheeks. Eyes narrowing, she grabbed the pillow before lunging at her.
"Oh, you are so going to get it!" she screeched.
Dot managed to dock her attempts with two more pillows in tow. With a sly giggle she hurled them both back, only for them to strike both Katy and Monnie.
"PILLOW FIGHT!" she screamed.
Next thing she knew all the girls began piling atop the bed, grabbing pillows and striking it each other senselessly. It was like a sleepover and they would stay up until dawn. Batting each other's brains out, hopping on the bed, and the best addition was the toilet paper as Katy began flinging them around the room, and the others joined in as well.
Dot held another pillow, glaring playfully at Katy who was smacking pillows with Monnie as if they were swords.
"Head's up!" the taller girl shouted.
However, the moment Dot flung the pillow at her, the Vocal Music major managed to duck. The pillow struck against a shelf and scattered many books onto the floor. Yet the girls made no notice as they kept striking each other.
Even in an attempt to strike Dot, all Colette managed to do was knock over some plants on the coffee table in the process.
Chet's jaw hit the floor as they began making a mess of his leader's room, and he tried to step in and cease everything.
"Hey, hey!" he cried, snapping his claws and stomping his many legs. "That's enough! You're going to destroy the room!"
However, the only response he got was getting hit in the face by a pillow, followed by a good number of unrolled toiler paper that wrapped around his body.
~
Johnny's head shot up in alarm, abruptly pausing in the pleasant conversation he was just having with Laura. For a moment he thought he heard a loud thump echoing from the ceiling.
Laura looked at him in confusion. "Is something wrong, Johnny?"
He turned back to her, smiling assuringly. "Sorry, I thought I heard-"
However, the noise didn't end. It only got louder, followed by the inaudible sounds of laughter and screaming.
The Worthington's heir's eyes widened in disbelief and a gut feeling told him the worse had just occurred upstairs.
Without another word to Laura he dashed out of the kitchen, the Sharp heiress following behind him with concern.
~
His heart nearly stopped when the door of his bedroom had been found open. However, the moment he and Laura barged into the room, his jaw was beginning to ache in agony as it hit the floor once again.
His room looked like a tornado had just been through it! Books and various other reading material were on the floor, the items on his dresser had been scattered and tinkered with, even trophies that stood proudly on tables and shelves were now knocked over.
Not to mention all the toilet paper that went from one side of the room to the next and even on his darn floor! And his bed which was suffering under the weight of four girls bouncing on it while knocking each other out with pillows!
Laura stared at the chaos, stunned and breathless. "Oh, my glob..."
Before Johnny even knew it, he was unintentionally hit in the face by a pillow thrown by no other than Dot, who was becoming a pillow warrior in her blood right now.
Shaking back to reality, Johnny's eyes narrowed in utter disapproval and just barely concealed fury as he he glared at the four girls on his bed. The moment his presence was known, all fun had suddenly ceased as the girls quickly stopped what they were doing.
Dot gulped, hugging a pillow to her chest as she stared at him fearfully like a monster child caught for coloring on the walls.
Katy's fingers twitched, biting her lip. "Um..."
She then quickly pointed at Chet.
"It was your brother's idea!" she claimed.
Chet, who had ripped the last of the toilet paper that had been wrapped around his body, gawked at her.
"Whaaaaaat?" he cried, unnerved.
By now Johnny was having a hard time trying to maintain his temper. No doubt Chet really had some blame for this, but he knew too well that these four girls would not only wreck his house but his own room as well. His claws clenched and unclenched, breathing through his nose as he forced himself to mentally count.
"Johnny?"
His eyes quickly darted in Laura's direction, and he felt regretful when she flinched the moment their eyes met. Emitting a deep sigh, he was unable to even fake a smile before turning back to the girls.
"Alright, that's it," he called, clapping his hands like a sports instructor, biting down the urge to call them all out right then and there. "The pillow fight ends now. Everyone off my bed!"
Katy laughed as the other girls quickly slid off the crumpled sheets and mattress. "Relax, Worthington, it's just pillows!"
Johnny raised an eyebrow at her. Scowling, he gestured toward the rest of the room, as well as the toilet paper that littered his floor.
"Well, what difference is this from a sleepover?" Katy remarked sheepishly.
The soft clacking of feet entered the room and the face of a more calmed and relaxed Javier poked itself through the door. He had just finished cleaning up the mess downstairs when he heard noise and immediately decided to see what in glob's name was going on.
His four eyes rose in surprise to see his leader's room completely in disarray. However, when his gaze fell on the four girls atop Johnny's bed, he was quick to realize that the chaos had resumed once more.
Well, better Johnny's room than his...
Before the insect monster even knew it, one of the girls flung a pillow right between his four eyes. Grunting in surprise, the pillow fell before his feet.
Katy smiled innocently, having been unable to resist. "Pillow fight...gotcha."
But what she did not expect was a curt piercing glare from the usually silent monster. It quickly faded as Javier picked up the pillow with one of his clawed hands, and glared in Johnny's direction. His leader merely shrugged, having been a bit placated by the scene.
"Alright," Johnny called, coughing to earn more attention, "that's enough. Seriously. Everyone out of my room."
Before he could try and lecture the girls, Dot squealed excitedly as she peered out the window.
"I see their van!" she exclaimed before wheeling toward the others. "OK's back!"
Katy's mouth fell in an open smile as her blue eyes widened. "Seriously?"
"Come on, we got to see them!" Monnie added.
Before Laura could have a say, it was Colette who grabbed her hand and dragged her out of the bedroom. Johnny would only watch as the beautiful Scare student was taken out of his room.
Well, the tour appeared to be pretty much over despite that. He looked back toward his room, sighing as he knew he had a lot to take care of. His eyes then fell on Chet, narrowing as he scowled at the youngest ROR.
Chet shrugged nervously. "They asked for paper."
_
Naomi leaped out from the doorway of her sorority house the moment the familiar van turned a corner and entered Frat Row. Heart pounding, she could only smile with joy, knowing the family had just returned from the hospital. Maybe they might have even returned with the twins themselves!
She clung to hope, and despite everything that occurred so recently she still held on. After all, she wouldn't give up on him.
More residents of the cul-de-sac and various students regarded the incoming vehicle with excitement, yearning for the good news that was upon the more favored fraternity. Big Red and his fellow JOX brothers smiled to other Greek monsters as they all gathered around. Carla and her own sorority stood by the table Brynn was proud of, a large amount of money sitting in the overflowing cash box once more. Johnny merely stood at the steps of his frat house, both relieved and a little annoyed by the attention Oozma Kappa was receiving once more. But at least those girls weren't destroying his house any longer...
Dean Hardscrabble, having spotted the van during her inspection over her university, quickly swooped down onto the pavement. Making her presence known, intimidated students parted for her. Hands clasped behind her back, she held her head high, the faintest of smiles on her face as she regarded the vehicle with affectionate correspondence.
The youngest of the PNK sorority pushed her way to the front of the crowd, and next thing she knew she had bumped into no other than Katy.
"Yo, girl," the EZ girl greeted playfully. "Guess you want to hear them out too, huh?"
Naomi could only nod, her lips tweaking in a confident grin while the aquatic merely stood around, hands in her pockets. By now the van had parked itself beside the OK house, however, her trio of eyes raised to see no other than Don having been at the wheel this entire time. Usually it was Mrs. Carlton who drove the van, but then again her husband was the only other monster with an actual driver's license.
The doors slid open as the monsters they knew exited the vehicle.
"Dudes!" Brock greeted with applause behind him as he and Claire managed to get to the front. "You came back! What's up?"
However, the moment he noticed the grief-stricken expressions on their faces, his own began to falter. Claire watched, immediately at question.
Naomi's eyes widened, and her heart began to descend for the moment. She grunted as it was Maria and Sonia who pushed past her and Katy, baring grins and eyes full of anticipation/adoration.
"Where are the twins?" Maria asked, adjusting her EEK jacket.
"I thought they were coming home today!" Sonia mentioned, flipping her raven hair.
Don sadly adjusted his glasses while glancing toward Mike, the latter shrugging miserably. However, he didn't need to say anything the moment Mrs. Carlton emerged from behind the car with aid from both Sulley and Randall.
As soon as her face came to attention, the crowd was struck paralyzed by her expression.
The petite woman's face was scrunched up and drowning in her own tears. More fell at her feet as she tried to wipe them away, sniffling and blubbering as she stood before the monsters she treated like her own boys.
"Oh, hello, everyone..." she hiccuped, curls deflating upon her head.
"Mrs. Carlton!" Dean Hardscrabble exclaimed as she approached her, horrified by the display of the usually cheerful woman. "What's wrong? What happened?"
The other woman tried to suck in her tears, only for more to spill. It was Randall who offered her a tissue he fished out of his jacket before she dabbed all five of her eyes. She tried to smile, assuring the Dean she was fine.
But she really wasn't. Far from it.
"We...we..." Mrs. Carlton whimpered. "Oh, glob..." she held her nose, trying to muffle down her continuing sobs.
Don sighed, rubbing his wife's back in comfort before turning back to the petrified crowd.
"We couldn't see them," he announced sadly.
The moment he dropped the bombshell they were met with gasps and murmurs of shock, and the Dean's eyes rose more than her own wings as she gawked at them.
"What?" she exclaimed, even more horrified than ever. "You couldn't? But they just told me-"
"Something happened," Don cut in, gulping down the lump in his throat.
The moment he said that, expressions in the crowd began to worsen, fear plunging itself into the university once more. Katy stared at him, her blue eyes bulging out as her dull claws began to shake. But that was nothing compared to Naomi as Nadya, who stood the opposite of her, noticed. The PNK girl was already at the brink of tears, reverting back to that heartbroken girl she had witnessed in the JOX bathroom not too long ago.
Don rubbed his hands nervously. "Well...one of them had a bit of a nervous breakdown while still in the coma," he explained. "The older one."
It was like a slap in the face the moment the OK president mentioned that, and Naomi could only grit her teeth as tears plunged from her trio of eyes. But no one noticed as murmurs echoed through the crowd once more, and it was all Hardscrabble could do not to just abandon her reputation and rush forward to embrace Mrs. Carlton.
Said woman began to sob once more, harder than she had when they slammed that hospital room door right in her face. She could still hear the sounds of shouting, equipment being moved, the steady pace of a heart monitor as well as the electrical vibrations of those defibrillators piercing her ears. It was all too much that she barely could stand had it not been for her husband.
Wiping her eyes, she turned away from her beloved monsters as she gently pushed Don's arm off her. Sniffling, she made her way toward the frat house.
"I...I'm going to bed," she murmured through thick sobs, "I'm sorry but I just need to rest right now..."
Hardscrabble could only watch as the beloved frat mom weakly walked up the steps of the OK house, fiddling with the knob before finally pulling it open. She almost tripped the moment she got inside, but she kept her body straight before closing the door behind her.
Hardscrabble was unnerved by this. No, she was outraged! The hospital had promised the Dean that a visit would be in order, yet they could just turn them away in a moment like that? True, the twins needed to be cared to in their most dire hour, but to refuse their family to visit afterwards? She was going to call that hospital and make further demands.
And darn it all if she had to storm in there herself!
Without another word, she watched as the remaining OK family gave a solemn farewell before reaching toward their house. They just weren't in the mood to socialize with their alma mater right now, and no one could blame them.
Lane, having been shooting pictures from above a light pole, slid down onto the pavement and rushed toward Mike before he made it to the door. When got a good look at his face, her heart trembled even more at the sight of a broken monster in his single eye.
"They can't just do that to you guys..." the photographer said quietly, tears piercing her own eyes as she regarded Mike mournfully.
The former student could only give half a shrug, knowing that he had to call Celia and tell her the bad news as well. Like all of MU, she would be just as upset.
"Appreciate the sentiments, sister," he told her as he moved toward the door, "but the twins need to be in solitary confinement after all this."
He reached for the knob, his grip tightening for the moment as his eye hardened at the recollection of the hospital scene.
"Doctor's orders..." he added bitterly.
And being the last monster to enter the house, he closed the door in front of everyone, wishing to grieve on his own while still grateful for everyone's concern. The heartbroken Campus Roar worker could only stare at the door, petrified by the complete mood whiplash that had befallen their alma mater.
Laura could only regard the poor fraternity, heart clenching tightly with dismay and worry. She looked around her, faces revealing just how much this one bit of news had brought the entire university down once more. She tried to find Katy in the crowd but her attempts were fruitless.
It was then she felt something rub against her leg and looked down to see no other than her Scare pig. Archie laid huddled by her feet, tongue wagging and displaying no signs of realizing what had just happened.
"Hey, boy," she greeted him softly, thoughts still occupied by the situation at hand as she bent down to pick him up.
Archie just wagged his tail before rubbing his nose against her chest, all six of his legs motioning in place. However, all that stopped the moment Johnny came by. The pig huddled closer to Laura, subtraction shaped pupils glaring up at the Worthington heir, a low growl seeping at his lips.
Johnny barely noticed, relieved to find the pig safe as Javier bluntly told him that they had kept it out of their house. He then smiled at Laura, purple eyes playful yet holding much charm.
"Good to see he found you safely," he told her. "Pretty sad what happened to Oozma Kappa right now..." he added, and with actual sincerity in his tone for some reason.
Laura nodded, stroking Archie's horns. "It's really depressing, actually..."
Johnny watched as she continued petting her pig, and his smile became more sympathetic. Laura almost jumped the moment he laid a gentle claw on her shoulder, rubbing it soothingly.
"I'm sure things will look up," he stated.
When she looked into his eyes, Johnny couldn't help but feel grand that his relevant approach made even more improvement. He was so proud of himself right now that he decided to just tickle Archie on the nose just to prove he was capable or earning his good graces as well.
However, that all flew out the window the moment the pig's teeth sank into his hand.
Johnny let out a yelp that could very well have been mistaken for a roar as he tried to pull away from Archie. Laura gasped in horror, trying to tug her pet away from the Worthington heir's flesh.
Carrie and Nadya could only watch as Naomi fought away her tears, rushing up the steps of the PNK house and refusing to show her face to anyone. The sorority leader gripped her chest painfully while the HSS member sighed sadly for her best friend.
It was then Carrie's eyes fell on Nadya that the latter noticed her scared yet firm expression.
"I don't care what you do," the PNK captain spoke, her voice carrying a hint of determination, "but just do it. And you know what I'm talking about."
It didn't take Nadya a second to realize what she meant, recalling their conversation at the cafeteria recently. The HSS girl could only nod in understanding, her trio of eyes moving back to the PNK house where Naomi had just disappeared into.
Glob help her that she would probably be breaking many rules for it.
Rules not associated with the monster race.
_
Johnny winced as the nurse applied more aloe to the small marks left by Archie. Luckily it had not been deep, just indentations that would go away in a few hours. Still, for a little pig he had the bite of a lion!
After the dejecting spectacle of both Oozma Kappa and Frat Row, Johnny had decided to go to the the campus nurse's office. Fortunately, Archie was clean and no risk of rabies whatsoever. Although Johnny would have to wear a bandage for the day and even while he slept.
As the nurse left to check on her other patients, the Worthington heir had to smirk as he sat on the lone chair inside the room. Laura had been devastated by what Archie had done, so much that she nearly had a panic attack on the spot had Johnny not assured her told her to take breaths. Still, she had felt awful about it.
And the guilt was probably so bad that Johnny could bet every trophy in his now cleaned up room that she would be rushing to him inside the nurse's office any moment.
His eyes met the nurse's when she came over to him, a small smile playing on her lips as she motioned toward the door she had just been through.
"Mr. Worthington," she informed, "a nice girl is here to see you."
His smile deepened, having expected this news as he rubbed his bandages. He only hoped she didn't bring that pig this time...
As the nurse exited through the main door once again, Johnny puffed out his chest, legs crossed as he awaited the midnight beauty who he knew thought about him every second. He watched as a shadow neared the door before jiggling the knob. The moment it began to open the Worthington heir made sure to appear even more in pain, hoping it'll guilt the gorgeous Scare student into being his nurse for the time being.
His eyes nearly crashed through the ceiling the moment the door swung open.
"Hi, Nonny!" Dot greeted, waving a teardrop-shaped hand toward him.
Heart stopping, the bite was starting to hurt a lot more right now as he could only gawk at her. The Art major giggled shyly before closing the door behind her.
"I'm sorry," she said sheepishly as she stood before the ROR president, "I mean Johnny. Man, and I thought I was just remembering names right now..." she added with a snort.
He could only stare at her, rubbing his bandages and just wishing to be back in his room right now. Not to say seeing Dot was considerably bad news, after all, she was the other nice EZ girl. But still...darn it.
"Laura told me what happened," she told him sympathetically as she pulled out a seat for herself, "she said she was going to visit you, but I told her I could take her place while she "disciplines" Archie so to speak." she added, pretending to give quotation marks despite possessing no fingers.
He tried to smile, but it only came out as a wince. And he fought the urge to groan out loud, feeling the opportunity having changed on its own accord. Unfairly.
"Wow, never thought Archie was a biter," Dot observed his wrapped hand. "But I'm sure by tomorrow you'll be okay. I mean, it'll be just like that cartoon I watched where that one squid guy got a couch slammed on his foot." She cringed as she recalled that particular episode. "It was all really graphic and gross. Fans, like myself, are complaining that the writers have really been jumping the shark since the creator just blindly gave away his show to these family moment haters..." she added bitterly.
Johnny only half listened to what she said, mentally gripping at the knowledge that all these EZ girls had completely ruined the day for him.
Darn it. Darn it all.
_
