The Loud House: Memory of A Promise
Part 2: Realizations and Expectations Chapter: 19 A False Beginning
Disclaimer: I do not own "The Loud House"
Questions: Guest (and about thirty other people): WHAT was that (sneak peak) about?! ... I'm not even going to entertain this one. I put up a big warning. Feel like if I poisoned a batch of cookies in front of some of you and told you not to eat it I'd lose a quarter of my followers. *sigh*
JR32: Lola got what she wanted but turned it down? I know, the nerve of her right?!
SomeBloke420: Since you want to involve other characters, could we see Tabby, Giggles, Haiku, and Polly, make an appearance, since Luna, Luan, Lucy, and Lynn, are all involved with Lincoln, could this cause the girls to be suspicious of what's going on? Hm ... maybe on the first question *snicker* and as for the second not sure if you mean the friends or the sisters but regardless for either way I'd say possibly.
May 2, 2005 Loud House, Dining Room Monday Night: Albert
"Hoo boy, what a day.", Albert F. Willard (age 64) muttered to himself as he took a seat.
Controlling five hyperactive girls overly abundant with joy at the arrival of their new brother was not an easy task, even for someone as experienced as himself. In a sense he was sort of ok now that he and the missus, god rest her soul, only ended up having Rita, then again having a big family would have been nice too. The slight cooing's emanating in front of him then garnered his attention to be focused on the newborn Lincoln Loud before him.
The whole fiasco with the president today really wore out his daughter and son-in-law, both eager to take him up on the offer he put Lincoln to bed tonight while they passed out. He was more than happy though to take on the task at the chance of getting a little special one on one time with his grandson, of course after his granddaughters had their fill of holding him obviously before going off to bed themselves. With a tender touch he reached into the carrier seat Lincoln was strapped into and took him out, cradling him with one arm as he let the young lad grasp his finger on his free hand.
"Heh, got a good grip there Lincoln.", Albert chuckled, only to receive a blank curious stare in return.
"You know, I had all but given up hope that I'd actually get a grandson at the rate your mother was popping out your sisters though I blame your father in that department. Glad to see he didn't goof up this time … then again it was pretty close with you being born without any medical help. Honestly still can't see what my baby girl sees in that man with his only skill being cooking, but least he gave me you guys."
Lincoln simply cooed.
"Hopefully you inherited genes from my side of the family because I got an important task for you. Now I hate to lay this sort of pressure so early on ya kiddo, but being the only boy born among your sisters so far … down the line your going to have a very important responsibility. If your sisters turn out anything like your grandmother or mom then they'll each be beautiful in their own right … and that's the problem."
Albert sighed deeply.
"I've seen a lot of things in my life sport, enough to know there are people in this world who are cruel simply because they enjoy it. That's where you come in, when your old enough it'll be your job to watch over them and be the man of the house. Lord knows you're the only one who can do it because no offense Lincoln, but your dad is kind of a pansy."
A small smile came to Lincoln's face which brought a similar one to Albert's.
"Good, glad to see we're already seeing eye to eye. Don't fret too much on it though, until you take the reins ol' Pop-Pop here will look out for all of you … *sigh* I already do financially somewhat. So you just enjoy life until then ok?"
Lincoln's eyes started to droop.
"That's the spirit, already taking it easy … Grow up nice and healthy my little lookalike, your grandpa wants to have plenty of days with you." Albert said as he gently stroked the small few strands of white hair upon Lincoln's head before heading upstairs to lay him in his crib. "Heh plus I wouldn't mind seeing you become a lady's man like myself."
? ? ?: Lincoln
"No …"
"Stop! Get off me!"
"Not again … no."
"Help!"
"Please no!"
"Lincoln help!"
"Stop it!"
"… Hahahaha!"
October 29, 2017 ? Sunday Early Morning: Lincoln
"NO!"
Lincoln shot forward into a sitting position and breathed heavily, gazing at his shaking hands and feeling pain pulse in his chest and face from horrid memory. Out of instinctual fear he grabbed his walkie talkie from the nightstand next to him and hit the button on its side. He spoke briefly into the receiver but received no response, only to remember shortly after that he had gotten rid of his simple walkie talkie a long time ago with how it got no reception out here.
With a simple flick of a switch at the top of the device Lincoln spoke once more. "Clyde! Clyde, do you read me?! Over!"
A few unnerving seconds passed before the tired voice of his best friend Clyde responded. "Lincoln? What is it? Over."
"Is everyone alright?! Are they ok?! Over!"
"Linc … *shuffling noises* It's four in the morning … and you just asked me this yesterday, it's Sunday today. I'm sure they're all fine. Over."
"S-sorry Clyde I just … Sorry. Over."
"*yawn* Was it that dream again? Over."
"… Yeah … Over."
"… I'll stop by later again today just to double check. Over."
"Thank you, Clyde. Over."
"No problem Lincoln … They do miss you a lot though. Every time I've gone there they've asked if you've said anything important to me. Over."
"Lynn sees that I'm ok at school. Plus, I do call when I have time. I just, really need to do this; besides I'll be seeing them on Monday. Over."
"Right. You made plans with Lucy for Halloween. Over."
"Yeah, I'll let you get back to sleep. Over."
"Goodnight bud. Over."
"Rest well Clyde. Over."
Lincoln set the walkie down beside his bed and checked for the specific time on the watch his grandfather gave him. It wouldn't be for a few more minutes till he had to start getting ready for his regiment, so he figured he may as well fiddle with his only source of entertainment. Getting up he made his way outside towards the back of his shack where the mini generator was situated, checking it to see if it still had more than half its weight in fuel.
After doing so he grabbed hold of its pull starter and gave a nice quick tug, making the contraption sputter a bit before giving up. A quick kick was enough though to bring it back to life along with the small portable television it was connected to. The thing sucked so damn much he thought as he reentered his abode, with its no color screen and its static speakers but out here beggars couldn't be choosers.
Linc flipped through the channels manually till curiosity got the better of him and anchored him to stay on the news channel. He knew better than to fuel his subconscious fears, but he just couldn't bear the thought of not knowing what danger loomed near him and his family.
The local towns news anchor graced the screen and gave a small smirk before he spoke. "Good morning Royal Woods, this is Tucker DiMaggio (age 56) welcoming you to today's early morning news."
"What have you got for me this time?", Lincoln mumbled.
"Unfortunately, today we have some disturbing turn of events here in our humble state. For those of you with a weak disposition towards cruel acts of violence I implore you to either tune out for a short time or view with caution."
Lincoln's focus remained undeterred. "Bring it."
"In southern Michigan yesterday, the case of three-week missing Taylor Hogan was closed as she had contacted authorities after escaping from the residence of prominent land owner, John Carver. Upon the investigation authorities discovered the bodies of four other missing girls, sadly long departed from this world, along with information tying his employed servant Richard Straker as an accomplice. Both are currently in secure custody and await trial later this week."
Linc balled his fists as he continued to watch.
"Meanwhile the manhunt for Eric Wayne Freeman, a man responsible for over more than two dozen murders, who had escaped custody during a prisoner transfer in central Michigan on interstate sixty-nine due to a traffic accident several days ago, was found dead by authorities a mere hour ago. Sources say he was killed in self-defense after a failed carjacking attempt claimed his life. Our hearts here at the station go out to the families of the victims who were unjustly taken from this world during his killing spree when he escaped."
"Good riddance to filth like him.", Lincoln muttered.
"Finally, on the last bit of news today the state execution of both John Krog and James Murphy will be carried out later this evening. The pair are responsible for breaking into the home of the Craven family and raping most of the family's children that resided within along with the murder of beloved father, Wes, several years ago. It is yet to be confirmed at this time whether the surviving Craven family members will attend the execution."
"They should, just to see scum like that burn."
"We'll have more news at twelve. And now here's Patchy Drizzle with today's weather report, Patchy."
The screen flickered, then showing Patchy (age 46) against a weather map of the Royal Woods area. "Thank you Tucker, and good morning everyone. Today we have bright sunny skies ahead along wi-"
Patchy was cut short as the screen filled with static and the sound of rain caught Lincoln's ear. He chuckled lightly at how wrong Patchy's forecast had already turned out to be as he gazed outside the single window in the room, only to frown slightly afterwards knowing he'd be in that mess in a short while. A single loud knock then directed his attention at the door signaling that his instructor was already awake and awaiting his arrival outside in the field.
Lincoln looked up to his ACU uniforms which hung on several laundry lines that darted across his small living space and grabbed a set to put on. It was still so weird to him to put them on, not in the sense that he never expected to wear something like this, but in the fact it felt a little right. Maybe his grandfather's old war stories got the better of him he thought as he heard an all too familiar sound.
Bzzzzt~
"Oh for the love of, seriously?!", Linc bellowed.
Lincoln never saw it but for the past few weeks come rain or shine a bee would always come right on cue when his instructor left him any of his meals on a stand next to the door. Being cautious not to let the flying annoyance passage into his room, Linc opened the shacks door quickly to grab his breakfast and closed it just as fast, checking afterwards to see if anything came in. With the all clear he sat on his bed and stuffed his face with the plain eggs, toast, and bacon that lay on his plate.
Once more his instructor's culinary skills shined through. Truly it takes a master to devoid bacon of all things of any flavor whatsoever. The same went with anything else he made meatloaf, fish, hell even spam.
Still, food was food, or at least Lincoln hoped in this case since this was his life for a while already. As he finished up the remains of his plate Linc spotted the usual two blue pills that came with every meal. Not hesitating to take them before, Lincoln popped them into his mouth and reached for his jug of water next to the nightstand, taking a small swig to wash them down.
Afterwards he grabbed his canteen off the nightstand and filled it up before attaching it to his waist. With everything seemingly ready he then went through a mental checklist lest he risked forgetting something vital. All was in order except for one thing, the one thing that helped him get through the weekends most of all.
Reaching under his pillow Lincoln took out his cellphone then turned it on and waited a few seconds for it to boot fully. He sighed as he looked at the no signal sign appear in the corner of the cell screen, knowing he'd probably get another barrage of texts tomorrow when he entered within range of a cell tower. That wasn't his main concern though no, the wallpaper he had set was.
With a gentle caress of his finger he stroked the screen, taking in each of his sisters faces and the smiles that accompanied them. It was taken before the incident, even before he ended up being in a relationship with more than half of them. Not wanting to be late he placed one last kiss against his cell before turning it off and storing it away.
Lincoln opened the shacks door and took one look at how hard the rain was pouring down then. Undeterred though he simply tightened his ACU cap and stepped out, getting soaked immediately as he headed towards the back of the shack again. Passing the generator while turning it off, Linc opened the top of his rain collector thinking at least the barrel could get some more water in her with the harsh downpour.
He then double timed out into the field where he saw his instructor waiting with an umbrella in hand and a book in the other. Linc stopped a foot away from him and stood at attention, waiting for permission to run the course. The instructor didn't even bother to bat an eyelash to acknowledge his presence and instead closed his book to look at his watch.
"Thirty-two seconds late Loud.", The stern man gruffly stated.
"Sorry sir!", Lincoln responded.
"Apology not accepted. Make it up in the field after the course by doing thirty-two extra sets of each workout phase."
"Yes sir!"
"Well? Get to it then. I won't have you waste my time."
"Yes sir!", Lincoln responded once more before he set out for the crudely made obstacle course.
As he zigzagged in between the tree stumps along the course Linc couldn't help but notice his instructor was a bit laxer nowadays with his chew outs. Maybe he had finally warmed up to him he thought as he approached the first climbing obstacle, a single tree trunk with its branches cut off and the top of it given a nice clean cut. Lincoln grunted as he climbed, feeling the bark press and scrape deeper and deeper into his skin as he made his way towards the top.
This part of the course always sucked and leaned on the sadistic side of things but at the same time it had its own reward. Said reward came into view when he reached the top of the tree, granted he only had a second or two to look at it. Off in the distance across the marshland he could see the hilltop where Lynn had confessed to him, one of so many reminders which spurred him on despite the physical pain that took its toll on him daily.
"Lagging behind Loud!", His instructor called out.
To avoid upsetting him any further for both their sakes Lincoln scurried his way back down the other side of the trunk. He was grateful for the rain in this aspect that if he screwed up this particular time he'd at least land on the soft mud. Once his boots hit the ground Lincoln burst forward to complete the rest of the course.
Pain or not he had to do this, to get stronger, for their sake. Anything to prevent another incident like that.
August 14, 2017 ?, Monday Morning: Lincoln
Lincoln slightly stirred from his slumber and pulled his pillow closer to nuzzle up against, feeling a strange warmth and inhaling a gracing scent of lavender as he buried his face into it.
"Oh~."
A weird sound, he thought he made as his instincts compelled him to tighten his grip.
"Ah~."
His brows furrowed for he knew he liked the scent and warmth but not enough to warrant that sound. Linc then froze as he felt something mingle with his legs and rub up against his groin. Being cautious he slowly backed up and opened his eyes, nearly turning red on the spot as he saw Luna looking back at him with one eye open and a smile on her face.
"Feeling frisky this morning, eh Linc?", She rhetorically asked.
Lincoln squinted his eyes shut tight and then reopened them. "I … I'm not dreaming this time … right?"
"Hm don't know." Luna moved closer and locked lips with him, enjoying the slowly rising heat under the covers between them as she bit his lower lip before they parted. "What do you think?"
A goofy chuckle escaped Linc. "N-not dreaming."
"*yawn* Morning guys.", A voice said behind Lincoln before a hand wrapped its way around his stomach.
Being more aware than he was before Linc easily placed the voice. "Morning Luan, sleep well?"
Luan pressed herself against Lincoln's back and nibbled on his shoulder. "Heh, is that a serious question?"
"Oh, just making sure.", He responded coyly.
His muddled memory began to clear up as he became more lucid, remembering how he got here in the first place. Last night his sisters, or rather his partners now, were debating on who would get the first night with him. At first it seemed like the arguing would never end until Lynn suggested a good ol' fashioned game of rock paper scissors.
Much to Lynn's surprise though she lost outright to Leni in the first-round matches, mostly because she couldn't get a bead on what she would pick next. Luna had better luck though and figured Leni would end up picking scissors since it was at the end of the chant in which she hit the mark on the bullseye, thus securing Lincoln all to herself and of course Luan. Since it was the night before the new school year though they had to keep things tame, somewhat.
Once in their room it was extremely hard, in more ways than one, to keep his cool as he undressed himself down to his boxers and they to their nightwear. The usual sight of their attire was now all too different to him at that point with their new blossoming relationship, feeling his mouth water at the sight of Luna in nothing but her shirt and panties and his heart palpitate towards Luan in her firm fitting one-piece nightgown. Getting into bed with them afterwards was only even more taxing on his durability to maintain his composure as both had moved in on him to the point of resting their heads on his chest and each take a leg inbetwixt their own.
The heat that permeated off them gradually grew as from one second to the next each subtle motion they made resulted in their delicate chastity's to slightly rub against his thighs. Whether it was intentional or not then he couldn't tell as Linc was too focused on quelling the raging erection that had developed because of their movements. The bestial instincts in his second brain voiced its carnal desire deeply, wanting nothing more than to pounce and mate with the luscious beauties beside him.
He resisted though much to his displeasure, wanting to avoid a bad start by risking the chance of giving the impression that he wanted a relationship with them solely for their bodies. No that was the last thing on his mind when it came to them, well least the one in his head … the one on his shoulders. When and if they ever became intimate he would entrust the choice to them, till then he would just grin and bear it, the former being infinitely easier than the latter.
Thus went the night, the sexually pensive building night, until he would eventually pass out and awake in his current situation.
"So~ enjoying my merchandise?", Luna asked, bringing Lincoln back to the thick of things.
Unsure of what she meant Lincoln traced the direction his arm went towards and realized what he had thought was a pillow in his morning daze actually turned out to be her plump rear.
"Oh, s-sorry.", Lincoln stated while moving his arm away.
"Hey chill Lincoln." Said Luna as she grabbed his hand. "We're together now so it's ok to get a little, frisky now and then."
Lincoln felt his heart race ever so furiously as she slipped his hand back into place, partially under her cotton barrier.
"Luna has the right idea Linc." Luan commented. "There's no reason we can't get comfortable when we're alone like this. Besides, what better way to start the first day of school."
Lincoln stiffened himself as he felt Luan press herself even tighter against his back and move her hand slowly southward along his abdomen. Thinking things were going to take a turn for the sinful Linc merely hoped he could live up to their expectations.
Beep Beep Beep
"Dang it.", The trio said in unison as they reluctantly parted from each other.
Normally the alarm wouldn't be a problem but being the first day of school they couldn't risk getting caught on the off chance either of their parents came upstairs to make sure everyone was ready.
"Guess I'll see you guys in the hallway shortly.", Lincoln stated.
Luna planted another kiss on Lincoln. "We'll be waiting."
"Sucks we have to be apart nearly the whole day when we just got together but least we got something to look forward to when school ends today.", Luan added as she gave Linc her own kiss.
Lost in his own little lustful world of thought Lincoln made his way off the bed, only to end up careening onto the floor with a loud thump.
Luan peered over the side of the bed. "Lincoln, school just started it's not the fall season yet haha, but seriously are you ok?"
"Y-yeah I'm good." Linc responded as he got up and tried to play off his aching derriere. "Just forgot we were on Luna's bed."
With a shy wave of his hand Lincoln exited the room.
"Told you we should've gone with my bed.", Luan stated towards Luna.
"Sorry sis, just wanted his scent on my bed." Luna cheekily responded as she took a delightful whiff of her pillow. "Ah~, I think I'm going to really enjoy this school year."
Lynn and Lucy's Room Monday Morning: Lynn
Bee-
The morning alarm was instantly cut off as Lynn excitedly shot up from her bed full of energy. Oh what a wonderful day it was going to be for her, hell every weekday would be this school year. While her sisters were going their separate ways in the mornings she and her beloved Lincoln would go to school together.
Sure they didn't have the same classes but they could meet up in the hallway, maybe sneak in a little hanky panky in the restroom when no one was looking. They could then feed each other lunch in the school cafeteria, the image of it in her brain giving her a giddy feeling as she collected her clothes for the day. Lucy then emerged from under the covers of her bed, giving Lynn an inquisitor look.
"Let me guess, Lincoln and school hype?", Lucy queried.
"Oh~ yeah.", Lynn responded with gusto as she headed out into the hallway.
As Lynn closed her rooms door and turned she spotted the highlight of her day approaching her, half naked much to her liking.
Lynn sauntered over. "Morning Lincy~."
"Morning Lynn." Said Lincoln as he smiled back at her. "Sleep well?"
"Actually, I was a bit cold last night." Lynn said as she wrapped her arms around Lincoln's head and brought him in for a light kiss before coming face to face with him. "But maybe tonight you can help fix that problem for me?"
Lincoln's cheeks flared up a bit. "Heh guess we'll see l-later."
Lynn giggled and planted another kiss on his adorable mug. "So~, how did you sleep?"
"Oh uh, pretty relaxed I guess."
"Just relaxed?", Lynn asked with a raised eyebrow.
"Yep."
Lynn shrugged and hugged Lincoln, giving him a few silent quick whiffs before she let him be on his way. There wasn't any scent of sexual musk about him which meant he and their older sisters didn't get intimate last night.
"Perfect.", Lynn thought, for if anyone was going to be first to pop his virgin cherry along with their own it was going to be her.
Moving down the hall Lynn planted herself against the wall and waited for whoever was in the bathroom to come out. The sound of doorknobs turning then caught her ear as she saw her sisters pour out of their rooms and join her as well.
"Morning kids." Said Rita as she came up the steps. "How's everyone feeling for their first day back to school?"
"Not bad mom, not bad at all.", Lynn replied.
Rita raised an eyebrow. "Really? Usually you hate the first few weeks until the school's sports teams get active."
"Well what can I say, I've got a whole new interest all of a sudden."
"Hm well that's good to hear, you girls hurry up now so you don't have to rush with breakfast. Lori is making everyone something.", Rita said as she entered Lisa's room to pick up Lily.
"Got it mom.", Everyone in the hallway replied in unison.
"So, gunning for favorite already eh Lori?", Lynn thought as she looked at her mother descend the stairway.
It was alright all things considered, after all she would have the homefield advantage with school. With the thought in her head Lynn gave a smug chuckle.
"What's so funny?", Lana asked.
"Oh nothing, just remembered a little joke."
Leni then came out of the bathroom, dressed in a newly picked out attire than complimented her cheery personality. Thinking that some of her sisters might actually give her a run for her money, Lynn entered the bathroom to start her shower. As she said her morning greetings to her sisters in line Leni noticed Lincoln coming out of his room and swooped in to greet him.
"Lincy~! Good morning.", Leni said as she squeezed Lincoln.
"G-good morning to you too Leni." Lincoln responded as he felt the oxygen being squeezed out of him. "Um L-leni?"
"Yes Lincy?"
"T-too tight."
Leni let go and watched Lincoln gasp for air slightly. "Sorry Lincoln."
Lincoln recomposed himself and hugged her back. "It's alright Leni, just goes to show how much you love me, to death heh."
"I'm totes going to miss you today."
"It'll only be for a while, you'll see me again after school and besides we still got breakfast and the ride in vanzilla before going our separate ways."
"Ok.", Leni glumly said.
With a small smile Lincoln tiptoed enough to plant a kiss on Leni's cheek. "I love you."
A giddy smile formed on Leni as she returned the kiss. "I love you too Lincy~."
"I'll see you downstairs in a bit."
"OK.", Leni responded in a cheerier tone as she happily made her way down the steps.
Linc thought it was a bit funny to have to extend a bit to kiss her but if he turned out like his grandfather then he would surely surpass her in height given enough time.
"Did that seem off to you?", Lana whispered to Lola as she became more nervous with Lincolns approach.
"Wasn't p-paying attention.", Lola stuttered as she looked away from Lincoln when he took his place in line next to her.
Loud House, Dining Room Monday Morning: Lori
"Here you go mom.", Lori said as she handed her mother her packed breakfast along with her fathers.
"Thank you dear." Said Rita. "Remember to pick us up after you get out of work ok?"
"Will do."
"Oh and make sure everyone is ready ok?"
"On it."
"And that th-"
"Mom, I got everything under control, don't worry."
"I'm sorry honey, just so used to everything always being so chaotic this time of year."
"Well there are eleven of us. You got me now though."
"And I'm getting prouder by the second." Rita said as she checked her cell for the time. "Alright your father's probably getting antsy already for me at the bus stop, have a nice day and drive safe, love you~."
"Bye mom, love you too." Lori replied as she set down a small plate for Lily. "And here's your breakfast Lily-bug try not to get yourself dirty."
Lily merely smiled and dug into her meal.
"Morning Lori." Said Leni as she entered the dining room.
Lori pulled out a chair next to her. "Ah morning Leni, perfect timing. Come sit with me we need to talk before we head out today."
Leni did just so and began to eat the plate in front of her as she looked at Lori with curiosity on what she wanted to talk about so early.
"Do you still remember what I always told you whenever we went back to school from summer vacation or the holidays?", Lori asked.
Leni held her finger to her chin for a few seconds. "Um, always say no?"
"Yes, but to?"
"Uh, always say no to … guys who ask me out?"
"Perfect, you do remember. I know before then I'd have to check if they had any … ulterior motives when they asked you but since I'm not going to be with you in school this year I can't do that. Thankfully though we're with Lincoln now so all you have to do is say no now."
"There's one thing I never got though."
"What's that?"
"What did you mean that one time you said they wanted to get into my pants? I don't own any pairs, they totes clash horribly with my style."
Lori gave a chuckle. "That's something you don't have to worry about anymore. Eat up now I don't want us to be rushing on the first day.
"Morning, ooo~ bacon, nice."
Lori turned to see Lynn take a seat at the table. "Morning Lynn, I imagine your feeling pretty upbeat eh?"
Lynn gave a coy smile. "That obvious?"
"Yes, very. I don't have to remind you that you can't risk getting caught doing anything with Lincoln at school, do I?"
Lynn merely waved her off. "Relax mom, I know better than to screw things up just when the goings getting good."
Ignoring Lynn's passive aggressiveness Lori faced Leni again upon remembering something of key importance. "Just remembered, Leni under no circumstances can you tell anyone, and I mean absolutely no one that Lincoln is your boyfriend now."
Leni dropped her fork and pouted. "But why?!"
"I'll explain it all later. Just for today though can you promise me you won't utter a single word about it."
"*sigh* Ok."
"Good morning."
The seated sisters turned to see Lucy who took her seat in between Lily and Lynn.
"Good morning Lucy." Lori responded as she looked around the room. "Well since most of us are here I might as well say this but after school when we all get back home our little group needs to have a meeting."
"About what?", Lynn mumbled with her mouth full.
"About how we're going to go about this whole relationship situation. You know, establish the do's and don'ts."
Lynn's brow furrowed. "What? Are you serious? It's barely day one and you want to set up rules already."
"Better to do it now and avoid any chaotic mishaps down the line."
Lynn rolled her eyes. "Whatever."
"Mornin dudes." Said Luna as she entered the room and took a seat. "What's for breakfast."
"Morning … So, how was last night?", Lucy asked.
"In your case I'd say things were certainly bumping in the night, ha." Luna cheekily commented. "Man shame Luan isn't here yet, she would've loved that one."
Lori nearly choked on her food. "Did you guys already?!"
"Nah just some harmless minor grinding on my part and maybe Luan too from what I could tell. Bro certainly enjoyed it from the tent he was pitching up I can tell you that heh."
"Knew it.", Lynn thought as she continued her meal.
Lori gave a slight sigh of relief. "Ok well, before anyone else does anything with anyone we got to have a meeting about it later tonight to set up some sort of common agreement between all of us."
Luna gave a thumbs up. "I get ya sis, can't always just wing it and play a game of chance to be with Linc. I'll let Luan know before we head into school."
"Oh and Luna."
"Hm?"
"I need you to help watch out for Leni."
Leni and Luna looked at each other for a second before Luna responded. "You know she is a big girl, right? I'm sure she can watch out for herself, I mean what's the worst thing that could happen?"
Leni nodded in slight agreement, feeling a bit like she was being put down.
"Luna."
"Fine, but I say she can look out for herself."
Lori simply sighed and continued her meal, still slightly worried for her little sister, even Luna and Luan to some degree. Things were ok for her, Leni, and Luna on her senior year mostly because she maintained her authority on the social hierarchy. With her out of the picture though it was possible that Leni could be the victim of someone gunning for the top of the popularity ladder, be it a man through attempted intercourse or a rival woman through a cruel smear campaign.
As her other siblings eventually poured in one by one she spotted Lincoln and felt a little alleviating comfort with his smile. There was not much she could do in the whole scheme of things except hope for the best. Finishing her meal and cleaning up after herself she made her way outside and towards vanzilla with Lily, setting her in her car seat as she took her seat and waited for the others to join.
Royal Woods Elementary School, Front Entrance Monday Morning
"Alright we're here.", Lori said as she looked to her soon to be departing siblings.
To avoid a clinging fiasco when it came to seating and Lincoln, Lori opted for Lincoln to sit in the back with the twins. Strangely enough though when the little duo were told so they both seemed a bit hesitant to which she just thought was merely the reluctance to go back to school.
"*sigh* I'll see you all later then.", Lucy despondently said as she got out.
Lana quickly bailed out of the van. "B-bye guys."
Lisa simply exited, jotting into her notepad as she made her way towards the building, only to smile a bit as she approached her only likable friend, Darcy Homandollar (age 5).
"What gives?!", Lola said as she struggled to open the van door on her side.
"Hm, door must be acting up again, vanzilla is ancient after all.", Luan deduced.
"Just move across Lincoln, we don't have a lot of time.", Lori added.
Lola blushed slightly at the prospect and tried the door handle several more times to no avail. She then gulped and looked at Lincoln who gave a simple smile and scooched back to let her pass by. Not wanting to draw suspicion to herself by asking Linc to get out first Lola merely sighed and nervously made her way over his lap.
Once outside she nearly tripped over herself as Lincoln bid her farewell, giving her both a pleasant and unsettling feeling. Staying stalwart, she gave no response back and continued forward as the van pulled away.
"Finally.", Lynn heaved as she unbuckled her seatbelt and made her way to the back.
"Lynn are you trying to get me pulled over?!", Lori exclaimed.
"Oh please the cops here are totally useless." Lynn retorted as she claimed her prize and snuggled up to Lincoln. "Could probably rob half the town and still not get caught."
Lori merely rolled her eyes as she neared her second stop, Royal Woods High School.
"*sigh* Ok, we're here." Said Lori as she took another worrying look at Leni.
Luna saw this and placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "Don't worry I'll look after her, even if I don't think anything will happen."
"And I have Luna's back.", Luan commented as she exited vanzilla.
"But isn't that your backpack you're wearing?", Leni asked.
Lori sighed as Luna merely patted her back before exiting herself.
"Bye Lincy~.", Leni said as she gave a wave goodbye and blew a kiss.
Lincoln's face turned a hue of red and even redder still when Luna and Luan followed suit and bid their loving farewells before closing the van doors and setting on their way. Unwilling to be outdone on the first day Lynn mischievously rolled up Lincoln's shirt sleeve and started sucking on his shoulder as she interlocked her hand with his. Linc himself merely remained silent and red as he took in the weird yet pleasant feeling of Lynn's actions.
"Lynn, what are you doing?", Lori queried.
"Just snuggling, you'll get your chance later today.", Lynn lied through a smug smile before resuming her task.
Unable to do anything from the driver's seat Lori merely heaved as she slightly sped up to cut Lynn short of whatever it was she was doing. A few minutes passed before Lynn released her vampiric grasp on Lincoln, admiring her work for a second then afterwards planted a kiss upon the hickey she left on his skin before rolling his sleeve down again. Admittedly she thought it was a bit of an immature thing to do, yet the mere thought of her mark upon him stirred her loins and set a primal fire within her which seemed to always stand at the ready when it came to her beloved brother.
"Alright you two, we're here.", Lori stated.
Recomposing himself from Lynn's advances Lincoln looked out the window towards the building that would take up three years of his life, Royal Woods Middle School.
"Alright c'mon Linc let's hurry so I can show you around before classes start!", Lynn said in giddy eagerness.
Lincoln followed suit, stopping just before exiting the van completely and faced Lori. "Hey Lori."
Lori turned her head slightly. "Yes Lincoln?"
"I hope you have an ok day at work, I love you."
Lori bit her tongue to keep herself from giggling like some giddy schoolgirl. "I love you too Lincoln, I'll see you in the afternoon.
Lincoln planted a kiss on top of Lily's head before stepping out into the pavement and getting dragged away by Lynn. As Lori watched in slight humor at how he was nearly tripping along the way she couldn't help but think of Leni's words the other day. Though like before all the same she shook her head of such thoughts and drove off, having full faith that Lincoln would be the same.
"Alrighty well this is the front entrance, obviously." Said Lynn as she pulled Lincoln into the main hallway. "Got your schedule?"
Lincoln rubbed his arm as it had nearly popped out of its socket before taking out his class papers. With jittery anticipation Lynn snagged the paper out of his hand and immediately began looking for opportune moments of rendezvousing with him.
Seconds passed and Linc watched as little by little her face began to turn distraught. "Uh, Lynn? Everything ok?"
Lynn didn't answer, she was too focused on looking over her schedule again along with Lincoln's. She didn't expect all their classes to be close to each other, heck she would've been ok with just one but as she compared the two her heart sank at how there was no chance of interacting with one another. Even their lunch periods were separate, her one hope out of all this crap vanquished before it even breathed life.
"Oh my god …" Said Lynn through gritted teeth. "This-"
Royal Woods High School, Cafeteria Monday Morning
"Food sucks.", Luan commented as she looked at Sam eat what she hoped was scrambled eggs.
Sam merely shrugged and kept eating, considering it was either this or starve.
"Better get used to it soon." Luna said as her gaze was directed elsewhere. "Won't always be able to eat up at home in the mornings, plus there's lunch."
"*sigh* I guess." Luan turned around slightly to face the direction Luna looked off at. "So, the Leni crowd get any bigger?"
"Yep, two more dudes and another chick. I knew Leni was popular last year, but this is just ridiculous."
Sam finished up the last of her school meal. "Didn't your older sister Lori shoo away most of the vultures around her last year?"
"Yeah, I guess I can see what she was so worried about now. Leni is more than talkative enough to manage all those people around her and way too nice to send anyone off."
"Hm guess the majority have chosen Royal Woods' new queen then."
"Queen?", Luan asked.
"Mhm, sort of a tradition here from what I can tell, always one woman at the top. Last year though it was sort of a duel monarchy with your sister Lori and Carol Pingrey at the helm."
"So what? Leni's in charge of the school?"
Sam looked over to where Leni was sitting just as two more people joined in and raised an eyebrow. "Um, yes and no. She may hold the sway, but I think everyone is kind of gunning for her favor to manipulate her right now."
Luna shifted slightly. "Maybe I should go get her and bring her over here."
"And risk pissing off a quarter of the seniors here, bad move I'd say. Your sister seems well enough at the moment anyway. If this really bothers you though we can snag her up before lunch starts so this doesn't happen again."
"I guess.", Luna responded unenthusiastically as a guy broke off from Leni's group and walked towards her.
"Hey, so your Luna, right?" The random male teen stated as he put on his best smile. "Name's Her-"
"Got a boyfriend.", Luna coldly stated without taking her eyes off Leni.
The guy merely scoffed and walked off mumbling to himself. "Thought bi girls were easy."
"Douche bag.", Luna uttered upon catching on what he said.
Luan held a puzzled slash worried look. "Ok one, granted he left of on a bitchy note you did rudely cut him off. And two, your secrets out?!"
"That's just another thing your going to have to get used to sis." Luna heaved. "The chumps and suck ups over by Leni who think they don't got a chance will migrate over to us to try and get to her, so watch out who tries to be overly nice to you for no reason."
"Don't have to worry about me and the friend department." Luan sadly thought before she spoke. "And the bi comment?"
"Not sure how it got started but rumor began last year that I swing both ways, I mean I do but it's not like I wanted to shout it out to the world right there and then. I can tell you now it was a real pain in the ass to deal with for a while with most dudes thinking I was an easy score."
Luan gave Sam a suspicious look.
Quickly picking up on what she might be thinking Sam spoke out. "I did not tell a single soul when Luna confessed to me. I'm just in the dark as her on who started the rumor in the first place."
Luna nodded in agreement. "That being said, only people who know bout my preferences for real at the moment are Sam, you, Chunk, Tabby, and Lincoln and obviously I trust all of you. Thankfully though it's just a rumor and for the most part it's all but dead."
"Jeez, and I thought middle school was bad.", Luan commented.
"Alright I think that's enough depression talk for one day." Sam interjected. "That douche did remind me of something very~ important. So Luna, tell that lucky guy your true feelings yet?"
Still ever vigilant on Leni, Luna broke into a loving smile. "Heh yeah I did, we're together now actually."
"Awesome dude, so who's the lucky guy?", Sam asked as she gulped down her milk.
"Lincoln.", Luna replied nonchalantly.
Luan went bug eyed and saw Sam nearly choke on her drink.
"Lincoln?!", Sam exclaimed.
Realizing what she had just said Luna averted her full attention back to her table, facing Sam and seeing her shocked expression.
"The guy's name is Lincoln." Luan spurted out instinctively to save Luna. "Not our brother heh, that'd be just weird. Right Luna?"
Luna watched as Sam shifted her gaze between herself and Luan, waiting for some kind of conformation.
"Y-yeah weird." Luna stuttered. "It's why I uh … why I didn't say his name in front of my little bro when we all hung out. Didn't want to ruin our family bonding time by freaking him out."
Sam let out a slight sigh of relief. "Oh man sorry about that Luna heh, not sure what I was thinking. Still though same name as your little bro, must be weird saying his name and not have your brother's face pop up in your head."
Luna gave a sheepish chuckle. "Yep, uh you got that right."
"Alright be right back, I'm going to go toss my plate."
As Sam got up and walked away Luan gave Luna a kick from under the table. "Luna are you trying to blow things already?!"
Luna immediately rubbed the point of impact. "Ow! Sorry man, I was just distracted. I'm seriously worried about Leni now, I mean look at all those people. I don't want them to swallow her whole."
"Just be more careful, thankfully Sam bought our fib just now." Luan pinched the bridge of her nose. "I told you involving your friends was a bad idea."
"She fell for the lie didn't she?"
"Yeah, for now. With what I've seen though she's going to get more and more curious until eventually, you'll either have to keep a straight face and lie that you broke up with Lincoln or introduce her to a fake boyfriend."
"Ugh ok, I get it. Man, this day is starting to bite a little bit … I miss Lincoln already."
"Look alive, Sam's coming back."
Sam took her seat next to Luna smiling goofily at her cell as she mumbled. "Oh Sully~, heh."
"What the big lug do now?", Luna asked.
"Woke up late and as I speak he's hauling ass over here."
Beeeeep
"Hm, not fast enough it seems.", Luna commented as she got up and saw the crowd around Leni herd her away.
Sam gave Luna a slight push forward. "Hey, go ahead and make sure everything stays cool with Leni, I'll show Luan to her first class."
"Thanks Sam." Luna said as she rushed off for Leni. "I'll see you later guys!"
"Alrighty then, what's your first period class Luan?"
Luan handed Sam her schedule paper. "Geography."
"Oof I've had this teacher before. Sorry but that class is going to be so-"
Royal Woods Middle School, First Period Monday Morning: Lynn
"Fucking boring." Lynn thought as she shifted in her seat, waiting for class to start. "Tardy bell hasn't even rung yet and I'm already sick of school. I'd be lucky to catch a glimpse of Linc at all today."
With nothing else worthwhile to do Lynn scanned the room to get a good look at her classmates she'd start the day with. Sadly, none of her friends were present and even more so anyone that even remotely seemed interesting enough to talk to. Yep, great first sucky day at school no Lincoln, no friends, and stuck in algebra right off the bat, how could things get any worse?
Lynn's attention shifted to the classroom's door and she rolled her eyes in annoyance at the sight of Maggie Wahlgren (age 13), wannabe emo and last year's annoyance for her in seventh period. Long as she sat far away from her this time around she might be tolerable. Upon thinking so Lynn looked around to see the available seats in class, seeing the only free one right next to her.
Lynn planted her face onto her desk and mumbled to herself. "God damn it."
"*sigh* Just great.", Maggie muttered as she took her seat next to Lynn.
"Got a problem?", Lynn asked challengingly.
"It's speaking to me right now."
"What was that bi-"
Beeeeep
Lynn sighed and decided to let things go for now, knowing an upset on the first day of school would bring down the ire of her parents. As class started she and Maggie joined the myriad of groans the class emitted upon the teacher handing out work of all things. The rest of the day pretty much followed suit with class after class of tedious assignments and catching only mere glimpses of Lincoln as she hurried from one to the next, for all it was worth though he was smiling which gave her a strange sense of enjoyment that at least one of them was enjoying themselves.
Finally she caught a break during seventh period when the sound of a chair scraping next to her and a light tap to the back of her head caught her attention.
"Hey Lynn-sanity, you look like someone passed you in the field and scored the winning goal."
A genuine smile formed on Lynn as she saw one of her closest friends, Margo Roberts (age 14). "Oh Margo, thank god! This day has been shit soon as the first bell rang."
"Couldn't be that bad."
"A sheet of practice Algebra equations along with homework to boot, not to mention the other class worksheets."
"Aw crap that's not good. Algebra is my next class after this one."
"Heh welcome to the shitty club. So didn't see you round lunch time, what lunch period you got?"
"Lunch b."
"Ah stuck with Lunch a myself. Some of the girls from the team were there to keep me company at least."
"Well that's nice."
"Hm, hey Margo."
"Yeah?"
"You uh, didn't happen to see my brother during lunch, did you?"
"Lincoln? Yeah I did, seemed to be enjoying his day from what I saw, laughing with his friends and such."
"That's good."
"Course that girl giving him googly eyes probably helped out a lot too."
Lynn nearly shot up from her seat. "Say what now?!"
"Oh yeah some girls passed him by, said their hello's and then one kept looking at him from her table every so often. Thought it was pretty cute."
Lynn drummed her fingers pensively along her desk. "So uh, what did she look like?"
Margo leaned back into her chair and thought for a moment. "Well if I had to go into detail, nice hourglass figure, dressed sort of rocker retro, and she had bit of her hair dyed purple."
Lynn's brow furrowed. "That sounds, awfully familiar."
"Hm well maybe you could ask Polly, she was hanging out with the girl."
A switch clicked in Lynn's head. "Tabby …"
"Huh?"
"Tabby, you know, one of the girls from that little clusterfuck when me and my sisters set my brother up with four dates at once."
"Oh~, your sister Luna's friend, right?"
"Yeah, Luna's friend."
"Aw well isn't that nice, one of em seems to have a thing for Lincoln."
"Nice, sure."
Beeeeep
"Welp, let's see what this class hits us with Lynn."
"Mhm.", Lynn replied uncaringly as her eyes were stuck like glue towards the clock over the teacher's desk.
"As if school didn't seem long enough." Lynn thought. "This class just got a whole lot-"
Gus' Games and Grub, Kitchen Monday Afternoon: Lori
Longer, such was how she viewed her time at work compared to her part time days considering there wasn't much to do aside from making sure the kitchen was spotless and stand at the service counter doing nothing. Course she expected things to be a little dead what with it being a school day and all and it was easy money if you thought about it. Still, you'd think at least one kid would skip the first day of school just for the hell of it.
As Lori went above and beyond by taking stock of the supplies in the kitchen, due to sheer boredom, her boss, Gus Tatasciore (age 50), waltzed in.
He coughed into his fist to get her attention. "Lori I'm going to be heading out a bit, got some errands to run, so I need you to show the new girl the basics here."
"New girl?"
"Oh, guess I forgot to mention it to ya. Friend of mine asked if I could help his kid get a part time job while she goes galivanting about to make her resume for college look all nice and proper. Up for it?"
"Sure thing Mr. Gus."
"Good. Alright you can come in now lass."
Lori's eyes perked up as she saw Carol Pingrey (age 18) enter the room. "C-carol?!"
"Lori?!", Carol jubilantly cried as she moved in for a hug.
"Hm so you two know each other then?" Mr. Gus questioned. "Perfect, makes things easier. Just don't goof around, I still expect some work to be done."
"Got it sir.", Lori replied as she squeezed Carol back.
With that said Mr. Gus left the two teens to catch up with each other.
"Oh man I didn't expect to run into you here." Carol said as she let go of Lori. "I thought you would've been out of here already at some campus."
"I'm sticking around until Leni finishes her school semester. Kind of want to take online courses and keep her company when she goes off to whatever campus she chooses to go to."
"Aw that's sweet."
"And you?"
"Oh just stacking as much as I can onto my resume before I apply. You know how colleges are, the more diverse you seem, the more they'll want you to show off to the competition."
"Hm true, but you picked here to work? I mean not that I don't mind you being here, but this place doesn't exactly scream look at me."
Carol shrugged. "Most of the jobs in town have been taken up by our graduating peers. Only reason Gus even hired me is because he and my dad play golf together. Still, seems I lucked out."
"Heh, I can say the same least I won't be bored to death now. Come on, let me give you the basic tour of this place."
A mere hour passed, much to Lori's dismay, as she finished up showing and teaching Carol the simple ins and outs of her new job. She noted how time could be quite fickle in that regard, seemingly slow earlier in the day as she wanted nothing more than to get back home to hash things out with her sisters and now that she had enjoyable company how it paced forward abruptly.
"So, Lori." Said Carol as she took a seat in a booth across from Lori. "Is the rumor true?"
"Rumor?"
"About you and Bobby? You guys broke up?"
Lori sighed and rubbed her forehead. "Who said that?"
"Heard it from Dana, but she said she heard it from Becky, who heard it from Teri, who heard it fro-"
"I think I get it." Lori interjected with an annoyed tone. "Guess someone must have seen the whole thing go down at the mall that day."
"So it's true?"
"*sigh* Yes, it's true."
"Wow I'm sorry to hear that … So again, sorry for being so nosy, but does that mean the other thing is too?"
"Which is?"
"Because there's another guy?"
"What?!"
"I'm just repeating what I heard.", Carol meekly said defensively.
Lori fumed. "Don't people have any respect for someone else's privacy?! Ugh!"
"S-sorry."
Lori propped her elbows onto the table and buried her face in her hands. "It's not your fault … So what are people assuming?"
Carol nervously looked away and acted coy. "Assuming?"
"Carol."
"… Some people are saying that you cheated on Bobby, others that the guy your seeing is married."
Lori rolled her eyes and lifted her face. "So the usual crap people spew when they have no idea what's really going on, wonderful."
"Your friends … we, we don't think that's the case."
"Thanks … Guess I should tell you how things really went down then huh."
"You don't have to."
"No, if there's going to be blatant lies going on out there about me at least some people need to know the truth of things … There's really no way of tiptoeing around it so I'll just admit it, yes there is another guy."
"Really? Who is it?"
"I can't say, I have my reasons so you'll just have to accept that for now, but I will say the guy isn't … married."
Carol scratched the side of her head. "Um ok I guess. So what's the deal between the three of you then?"
"Well it sort of came from left field but I ended up coming to the realization that my feelings for Bobby were based on how he held a candle towards who I really felt for. I tried to reason it away at first but when I really thought on it everything was just so eerily similar that there was no point in me denying it anymore. So I, I broke up with Bobby afterwards, it wouldn't have been fair to have kept it going."
"I … wow."
"I really wanted to stay friends with him after, but it doesn't seem like it's going to be happening. We haven't spoken since then, so there it is, that's what really happened. There wasn't any cheating, the guy I'm in love with didn't even know at the time."
"At the time?"
"Yeah, I sort of ended up telling him my feelings … by accident."
"Accident? How does that even work?"
Lori smiled a bit. "Hm, well it turns out to be something awfully romantic in the end if you think about it, but sorry that part is kind of for myself as well."
"So a mystery guy eh? Well least I have some idea of what's going on. You uh, want the others to know?"
"Yes … I'll tell them myself though, probably best to hear it straight from me."
"Ok then, well let's talk about something else then in the meantime. How's the family doing?"
"Heh, still chaotic as always but what else do you expect." A thought then occurred to Lori. "Hey Carol."
"Hm?"
"I'm curious about earlier this year when you came to my house out of the blue that one time. How exactly did my brother convince you to come over?"
"Lincoln? Aw the little charmer, he ended buttering me up about how my radiating beauty would be the only thing that could make the family picture great again since you couldn't do it."
Lori's nails dug slightly into the tabletop. "Oh really?"
Carol nodded her head as she broke out into a small smile. "Yeah, truth be told though I went in the first place because I wanted to help you out in some way, the compliments he gave didn't hurt though."
"Well, that's nice to know."
"Uh Lori, you ok? Your eyes twitching a bit there."
"Mhm just peachy, must be your imagination." Lori replied as she tried to recompose herself. "So how's your family Carol?"
As Carol prattled on about recent events with her family Lori gave herself a good mental kick in the rear. There was absolutely no reason to get jealous over Lincoln's compliments to Carol, for one they weren't together then and two Carol in no way felt that way towards him.
"Get a grip Lori." She thought. "There's no way Carol could ever develop feelings for Lincoln. Heh, that's just-"
Royal Woods Middle School, Second Floor Hallway Monday Afternoon: Lynn
"Crazy chick! Watch where you're going!", A random boy called out as Lynn nearly knocked him on his ass zipping by.
Ignoring him completely Lynn weaved through the crowd, making her way downstairs and towards Lincoln's classroom. As she exited the stairwell and rounded the corner the sight of his all too familiar turkey tail popped up from the exiting students.
"Lincoln!", Lynn shouted with glee.
"Lynn?" Lincoln managed to utter before she grabbed his arm and dragged him away. "Whoa Lynn, the arm, watch the arm!"
Barreling past the schools' back doors, Lynn pulled Lincoln out into the bleachers by the football field. Once under the cover of shadows she peered through the small openings in the bleachers to see if anyone had noticed or followed them, seeing no soul whatsoever. Wasting no time, she dropped her backpack and turned to see her oh so delicious quarry rub his arm.
"I think my left arm is longer than my right arm now." Lincoln commented as Lynn approached. "Seriously you got to take it easy on my a-"
She cut him off with a kiss, a kiss she had been yearning for since her first class. With little resistance she slid his backpack off of him as she took in Lincoln with every sense she could at the time, taste, smell, touch, and sight, the last of which helped her notice something. She couldn't help but smile at seeing his arms shaking as they hovered just inches apart from holding her, no doubt nervousness on whether it was alright to grab her or not.
She parted her lips from him and whispered into his ear. "It's ok Lincoln, you can grab me as hard as you want."
Lynn nearly yelped as he immediately took the invitation, digging his fingers into her as he grabbed her rear and pulled her close. She smiled smugly at how aggressive he was and rewarded his bravado with several kisses along his neck. The action only seemed to spur him further as he gulped and returned the favor, slowly making his way lower and lower towards her chest.
"That's' right Linc." She thought. "I'm the only girl you should be focusing on while were he- … Wait, why'd you stop?"
"Uh, Lynn I think our times up.", Lincoln stated.
Lynn looked to where Lincoln was facing and saw a group of boys tossing a football around head towards the field, eliciting an annoyed sigh from her.
"Are you kidding me? It's the first day of school, go home you fucking jerkoffs.", She growled.
"Not much we can do. It was fun while it lasted though." Linc shyly commented. "Come on, let's go before they see us under here."
Feeling a bit defeated she begrudgingly agreed, following Lincoln along the side of the field as she flipped off the unaware boys. She may not have done much but in her mind she was at least a bit pleased she reminded Lincoln of what exactly was waiting for him with open arms every day. Only thing left really was to find out how he felt at a particular moment today.
As they came to a street crossing and paused she began her investigation. "So Lincoln, how was school for you today?"
"It was pretty great, you?"
"Aw c'mon you got to give me more details than that."
"Like what?"
"Oh you know, how did each class go? Any problems come up? Meet anyone, interesting?"
Lincoln thought for a moment while they crossed. "Well …"
Royal Woods Middle School, First Period Monday Morning: Lincoln
As Lincoln looked around he was a bit disappointed no one he knew was in class with him but with everything that happened this morning prior he still held a goofy smile. His phone buzzed and upon checking it saw a good luck message from Clyde to which he wished for him as well in his reply. The chair next to him then scraped and a familiar voice called out to him.
"Hey Lincoln."
Lincoln turned and was surprised to see Haiku (age 11) of all people. "Haiku? Hey it's been awhile, how have you been?"
Haiku shrugged. "About as well as one person can be really."
"Oh that's good, I think."
Beeeeep
"Don't know about you but I'm sort of glad English is my first class.", Linc commented.
Haiku eyes piqued slightly with curiosity. "Really? Why is that?"
"I've come to appreciate how being creative through writing can influence your speech in real life, and recently, it's been quite a boon for me.", He replied as his goofy smile returned.
"Like what?"
"Oh, family matters."
"Hm, well good to know I'm seated next to someone with an appreciation for the subject."
"Alright settle down class." The homeroom teacher called out as he took out a clipboard. "Starting roll call now, forgive me if I pronounce your name wrong."
The class remained silent, with a few students texting under their desks as others tried to rest their eyes for a moment.
"Haiku Waters?"
Haiku raised her hand. "Present."
The teacher let out an annoyed sigh. "Miss, I'm not sure how you did it but changing your name to something you think is cool will not fly by me. What's your real name?"
Haiku returned her own annoyed sigh as she dug into her backpack and took out a manila folder. She then approached the teacher and handed it to him.
"What's this?", He questioned.
"It's my official name change record, with both of my parents' signatures.", Haiku replied.
He scanned the document. "Oh … So that is your real name then."
"Indeed."
"Um sorry then." He handed the folder back. "Take your seat then."
"I always thought that was just your nickname." Lincoln whispered as Haiku returned to her seat. "I'm guessing since you brought that with you this isn't the first time something like this happened."
"No it's my real name and yes, more times than I could count really but I don't regret changing my name one bit."
"What's your original name?"
"Sorry Lincoln but I'd rather keep it to myself."
"Fair enough."
The class proceeded rather mundanely afterwards till the alarm for the next class sounded off. Out in the hall Lincoln checked his schedule and headed for his next class, Math. If anything would possibly kill his mood it could very well be this subject.
As he took his seat his vision was robbed as his eyes were covered.
"Guess who~.", A cheery feminine voice called out.
"Uh, Paige?", He guessed.
"Nope."
"Kat?"
"Wrong again."
"… Sadie?"
"Oh~, I'm sorry that answer is also incorrect. Give up?"
"Yes."
"Ta-da~!", A young peppy girl exclaimed as she appeared in front of Lincoln.
Lincoln examined her and tried his best to remember who it was he was looking at. She had dark brown hair with dual buns situated on both sides of her head. Her figure was somewhat average and her height was about as normal too.
Lincoln scratched the back of his head. "Uh, I'm sorry but I don't remember."
The girl pouted a bit. "Aw, I mean I know I've lost a little weight and that I look different without my get up, but you must at least recognize my sunny disposition."
"… Sorry, still not ringing any bells."
"Hm, I see." She held out her hand. "Well it's ok, want to shake hands and reintroduce ourselves?"
"Sure, I'm Lincoln L- GAH!"
The shock from the joy buzzer in her hand cut him short as she giggled. "Pleased to meet you Lincoln GAH my name is Amanda McCann (age 11) but you could can call me-"
"Giggles." Linc interrupted as he slowly came back from the electric shock. "How could I forget your shocking entrance from last time. Sorry, really."
"Heh you do remember me huh, figured your mind needed a bit of a jolt to kickstart your memory. I forgive you too for that pun you just made." She took her seat next to Lincoln. "How've you been?"
"Pretty great actually. You?"
"Oh just fantastic! Went to a comedy club camp over the summer and man do I have some new material just begging to be spoken. Care to be my willing audience."
"Hm, listen to your jokes or focus on math. Mmm tough choice.", He teased.
Picking up on what he was doing she gave him several pokes along the side of his chest.
"Haha! Ok, ok enough poking I was just teasing!" He wheezed as he caught his breath. "Course I'll listen to your material. Just promise me you got enough to last the whole school year."
"Ha easy promise. Want to hear one right now?"
Beeeeep
"Just don't make me laugh too hard. Don't want the teacher getting after us."
A sly grin crossed her face. "Heh, now that's a promise I'm not sure I can keep."
Right off the bat the giggling pair were called out as soon as class began and several more times as it progressed, stopping only when the teacher threatened separation. Lincoln counted his blessings for scoring two people to speak for his first two classes with as the bell for the next sounded. After saying his goodbye to Amanda, a soft jab to his arm garnered his attention.
"Hey snowball.", Tabby called out with a smile.
"Hey Tabby." Linc replied. "Was wondering when I'd bump into you."
"How's the morning been?"
"I've been lucky so far. You?"
"A little here and there but that's mostly cause I'm not much of a morning person."
"Hey wait a second, you're not using your accent."
Tabby blushed slightly. "You said I didn't need it, right?"
"Hm yeah I did."
"S-so anyway what do you have up next?"
Lincoln checked his schedule. "Science."
"Really?! Let me see that paper really quick." Tabby compered his with her own. "Rockin! We got the same class together and lunch to boot!"
"Huh and so my lucky streak continues."
Tabby linked her arm with Lincoln's. "C'mon let's go before the good seats get taken!"
Not resisting, Lincoln let himself get pulled along towards his next class, hearing another familiar voice as he entered.
"Hey Lincoln!"
Lincoln felt like he was on a winning streak when he spotted Liam Hunnicut (age 11). "Hey Liam!"
"How you been bu-" He paused, his face souring slightly at the sight of Tabby. "Oh, hey Tabby."
"Liam.", Tabby uncaringly said.
Lincoln awkwardly coughed as he took his seat next to Liam and Tabby to Lincoln.
"So Lincoln." Said Liam as he tried his best to keep his cool. "How were your final days of summer?"
"Pretty awesome.", Lincoln replied as he thought of his sisters.
"I can attest to that." Tabby boldly added. "Me and the girls put on a bitchin concert and Linc here had front row seats to the whole event."
"What and you didn't bring me along Lincoln?!" Liam protested. "I love concerts!"
"There was a no douche policy.", Tabby thought to herself.
Lincoln shyly chuckled. "Sorry Liam, my sister Luna invited me last second, plus it was sort of a … bonding thing between us."
Liam sank into his seat. "Well not much I can argue against if things turned out like that I reckon."
"Not like you would've been welcome anyway.", Tabby mumbled.
Beeeeep
"Oh look, the bell." Lincoln nervously mentioned. "Guess we should focus on class heh."
Tabby and Liam grumbled in agreement, only to continuously vie for his attention throughout the classes introduction. Feeling a bit of relief when the bell rang Lincoln sped for the door, not wanting to get caught in another spat between the two. He figured given enough time in the coming days they might calm down to some degree.
To avoid getting slowed down he had checked ahead of time where to go this period and ended up swiftly entering his next classroom, Home Economics. Spotting the all too familiar of his curly hair, Lincoln took his seat next to the sleeping Rusty.
"Hey man." Said Lincoln. "Worn out already?"
Rusty lifted his face to reveal several hand shaped marks on his cheeks. "Hey Linc, uh not exactly."
"Dude what happened to your face?"
"Oh this? Just some rejections, very painful rejections, but nothing ventured nothing gained."
"Hm might want to take it easy."
"What? Nonsense it'll take more than a couple of slaps to keep the Rust Man down."
"Well your choice in the end really. So, I'm surprised to see you in this class."
Rusty gave a smug chuckle. "Are you kidding me? Home Economics is ground zero for scoring some cuties. Just you wait this class is going to be awesome and easy."
Beeeeep
Lincoln looked around and bumped his elbow into Rusty. "Uh Rusty."
"Yeah Linc?"
"I um, I'd hate to be the one to burst your bubble, but."
"But what?"
Lincoln pointed out towards the classroom. "There's only guys here."
"What?!" Rusty franticly looked about the room. "Oh come on! Why~?!"
"I guess every guy had the same idea. Though I just came here cause I'm already good at this sort of thing."
"This sucks."
"Hey least we're partnered up here."
"I guess. So meet up with Clyde or anyone else yet?"
"From the gang I've only met you and Liam. Far as I know me and Clyde only have one class together and lunch."
"Cool what lunch period you got?"
"A."
"Well least the three of us can hang out next period then."
"Hey see? Things aren't so bad Rusty."
"Well hopefully the food doesn't suck."
Royal Woods Middle School, Cafeteria Monday Afternoon
"And it sucks, figures.", Rusty groaned as Lincoln took a seat next to him.
"Can't be that bad." Linc rebutted as he took in a spoonful. "Gack! … Of course, what do I know really."
"Guys!"
Expecting Clyde, Rusty and Lincoln turned instead to see Zach Gurdle (age 11) speeding towards them with Liam slowly closing in as well.
Lincoln held up his hand to receive an incoming high five from Zach. "Hey Zach. How's the day been treating you?"
"You guys are the only highlight of my day." Zach responded as he took a seat. "What does that tell you?"
"Sorry to hear man."
"Hey Lincoln. I've been itchin to ask ya somethin." Liam interrupted. "Why the heck did you and Tabby come into class with your arms linked?"
Rusty's eyes boggled slightly. "Wait your already linking arms with some chick?!"
"Whoa slow down there!" Said Lincoln as he raised his hands defensively. "That doesn't mean anything. We're just friends and besides I already have a …"
"Have a what?", Rusty inquired.
Lincoln gulped and began to hate himself for almost letting out that he was in a relationship, not even considering how much his friends would butt their noses in to find out with who no less.
Deciding to bite the bullet, Lincoln thought it best to admit something they thought they knew. "Have a crush on … Ronnie Ann."
"Oh right, duh."
"Still weird to see you both like that.", Liam commented.
"Lincoln!"
The group faced the happy bundle of joy that was Clyde as he approached them.
Lincoln returned his enthusiasm as he made room for him to sit. "Clyde hey! How are classes?"
"Pretty good, I've already organized all my assignments so far into my daily planner an-"
"Hey Lincoln!"
Lincoln looked around and saw that Rusty had sat up straight and that Liam had put on a dour face before seeing several familiar faces approach. "Hey Tabby, ladies."
Haiku and Giggles gave their own respective waves as Polly Kidder (age 11) came up and gave a good old shoulder punch to Lincoln. "Well well, been awhile Lincoln. Hey Rusty, how's your arm faring nowadays?"
"I c-can twist it in several new directions now.", Rusty uttered in a shy tone.
Tabby coughed into her fist to get Polly's attention.
"Oh right, my bad." Said Polly as she gave a wave goodbye and went with the others on ahead to their table without Tabby.
"So when did all you guys become friends?", Lincoln asked.
"Oh well we got to talking after the dance and one thing led to another." Tabby replied. "So Lincoln, I talked it over with the gals and they didn't seem to mind. Was wondering if you wanted to come sit with us for today?"
Lincoln could immediately feel Rusty and Liam's eyes boring into the back of his skull. "Uh maybe next time Tabby, promised the guys I'd sit with them today."
Slight disappointment crossed her face. "Oh, ok. No big deal anyway, I'll see you later."
"Later Tabby." Lincoln turned his attention back to his table and met Rusty's judgmental gaze. "What?"
"What do you mean what?!" Rusty exclaimed. "It's barely the first day of school and you get invited over to the girls table?! I thought you said you only met up with Liam so far back in fourth period!"
"I said from the gang! I didn't think you also meant anyone else outside our group."
Rusty plopped his face onto the table. "Ugh why do you get all the luck?"
Lincoln rolled his eyes. "I told you already we're just friends, an invite doesn't mean anything. Can we please just eat now?"
The group awkwardly agreed and continued lunch without further interruptions, unaware of Tabby's eyes focusing on Lincoln from time to time.
As the bell for the next period rung out several students carrying bundles of clothes caught Linc's eye. "What are those?"
Zach looked out towards where Lincoln was staring. "Oh those are ACU uniforms."
"AC what?"
"ACU, army combat uniform."
"Why do they have that?"
"It's part of being in L.O.T.C."
"Uh …"
"*sigh* Leadership officer training corps, it's kind of like a mini military school class."
Lincoln held a perplexed look. "Do they not like having fun?"
"To each their own I guess."
Lincoln simply shrugged and headed off for his next class knowing without a doubt he'd never be caught choosing that elective.
Along the way Polly came up and bumped into him. "Hey there Linc, where ya headed?"
"Social Studies.", He replied as he regained his balance.
Polly grinned. "Ya don't say eh? Ditto."
"Really?"
"Mhm least we have each other to talk to if things turn south and boring."
As they entered their class together they both took seats in the back.
"Hey Polly."
"Hm?"
"Sort of wondering what happened with Rusty. Specifically that arm comment during lunch."
"Oh that. Well after you and Ronnie Ann left the scene at the dance that day ol Rusty couldn't handle my more, athletic moves on the dance floor and I ended up breaking his arm."
"Oh."
"And spraining his ankle."
"… Oh."
"And possibly some spinal damage the way he was bent over."
Beeeeep
"Yeesh … Well as much as I'd like to question how Rusty is even alive right now, let's uh focus on class for now, shall we?"
Polly agreed after chuckling slightly from Lincoln's reaction and leaned back into her chair. Despite her few attempts to pester Lincoln for a conversation to lighten things up every few minutes, class proceeded normally.
When the bell rang and the teacher dismissed the class Polly spoke up. "So what ya got next Linc?"
"P.E. with Clyde."
"Aw shame, already had that earlier. Would've loved a workout buddy during."
Lincoln cringed at the thought of a daily tangle with Polly and sports. "Yeah heh, shame."
"Well I'll see you another time then, later."
"Later Polly."
Making his trek to the other side of school Lincoln eventually came across the gymnasium doors with Clyde planted front and center right next to them. When the inseparable duo made eye contact they both smiled and fist bumped each other, entering afterwards and heading towards the gyms changing locker room entrance.
"Ready for this Clyde?", Linc questioned.
"Can't be that bad.", Clyde responded optimistically.
Upon entering they were immediately met with the sight of older boys poking fun at the new meat around them along with the stench of years of body odor. Both Clyde and Lincoln began to sweat nervously due to their surroundings.
"Just lay as low as you can Clyde." Lincoln whispered. "Just got to get by the first couple of days before the older kids get tired of trouncing on us. It's only half an hour, not so bad when you think abou-"
"You are one weird looking albino"
Lincoln sighed and turned to correct whoever had just spoken. "I am not an albin-Oh …"
The sight of the older brute of a boy before Linc made him swallow his words. He looked between both him and Clyde with a face that obviously held cruel intentions once he made up his mind on what to do.
"Hey those guys are cool, they're with me."
The trio turned to see Bumper Yates Jr. (age 12) approach calmly towards the older boy. Without resistance the bully simply rolled his eyes and shrugged before making his way towards another unlucky individual.
"How the heck did you do that?!", Lincoln exclaimed as Clyde himself breathed heavily into a paper bag.
"Oh I often tutor some of the older kids from time to time. I'm sort of the only reason they made it to the next grade in the first place.", Bumper replied.
"Well thanks for the save."
"But of course Lincoln, we're neighbors after all. You guys should hurry and get changed though, don't want to be late to class."
Not favoring the risk of bumping into someone else who Bumper couldn't influence away Clyde and Lincoln rushed to get changed, with the latter being mindful of his hickey, and soon joining Yates and a few other old classmates out on the gym floor. Feeling generous the coach in charge of the class gave a free period which resulted in the majority of the students sitting on the bleachers to lay about much to his disliking. As they chatted Linc felt now wasn't the best time, nor any time soon for that matter, to divulge what was really happening with him, opting him to ask about Clyde's summer vacation as their subject for now.
Half an hour later Lincoln had entered his final class for the day and scanned the room, seeing no one at all he could talk to or even seemed remotely interested in talking with him.
"Can't all be winners.", He thought as he took the last available seat.
Still with all but one of his classes having someone to speak with he felt he really lucked out. As the bell rang he lost himself in blissful thought thinking overall how everything seemingly went from him having a lonely heart to now being crushed by a tidal wave of love. His face formed a content expression as he felt this was the start of a new and wonderful chapter in his life.
? ? ?: Lincoln
"I was such a fool … so naïve."
October 29, 2017 Outskirts of Royal Woods Sunday Mid-morning: Lincoln
"N-ninety-two … S-sir! Done with my push-ups! Permission to s-stand!", Lincoln shouted through strained breath.
"… Granted.", His instructor replied.
Lincoln felt his body nearly give out as he struggled to get up. Everything within him cried out and begged for rest but he knew full well that if he submitted to his pulsing pain he'd be sent home without a care. Instead he stood at attention and waited for his instructor to announce the next exercise.
As if sensing his inner struggle, the instructor bore a sadistic smile and called him out on it. "You can always go home Lincoln, doesn't matter to me one bit. Do you want to go home Lincoln? Do you?!"
"No sir!", Lincoln responded while he tried to put on a brave face.
"You sure? You know what's coming up next."
"Yes sir!", Lincoln cried more stoically.
A slight scowl with a sense of annoyance crossed the instructors face as he cracked his knuckles. "Alright then, take your combat stance soldier! Combat exercise begins now!"
Nervously, Lincoln raised his arms in a defensive stance, knowing it was somewhat futile but vital if he wanted to learn more. As his instructor approached and easily pushed his pre-emptive strike out of the way a single thought spurred Linc's will onward as his more powerful opponent landed a striking blow to his gut.
"For them."
Lincoln fell to his knees immediately to the new coursing pain, attempting desperately to regain his lost breath and recompose his train of thought.
"Get up Loud! You know the drill, no mercy!", His instructor bellowed as he delivered a kick to the young man's side.
AN
Sorry all this was supposed to be posted yesterday, but took a little nap when I came back home from work and next thing I knew it was dawn already and time for more work. On a good note though I am happy to announce to those who have read the little "Freaking Out" addition on my explanation story that support has gotten back to me and the evil review glitch has been dealt with. I can now see all your critique and questions normally now. My original solution was just having you all pm me questions but as for the guests on this site well that would've screwed all of you. To that I say why not make an account here? By no means do you have to write a story to become a member and this is not an attempt to get more favorites/follows, it's to help benefit you. You can cut out so much hassle by saving which stories you like and which you want to be updated on, best part it's all anonymous. Hell you can make an account and pm me that you're not going to follow me just to spite me, so come on and help make the FanFiction community grow a little more. Anyways back to the story; for those avid Flagg1991 fans you all may recognize some things from that little news section Lincoln viewed. It's sort of a shoutout to his more, what's the right word, unappreciated works. I recommend you read his first Loud House piece, granted you may hate me for saying so, though as a warning it is not romance focused ... will definitely give you feelings nonetheless. Also some last things to mention, holy crap, nearly three hundred follows and favorites to my story and a good chunk to me as well. Guess I can add some more things to my profile along with my DeviantArt account name though I have no drawings to call my own. Speaking of I am on the look out for an artist still, so if you guys have any Deviant recommendations or if you fancy yourself an artist please pm me. I was actually in the midst of getting JumpJump to do a cover for my story until his shocking disappearance *sob*. The little YouTube gaming video starring moi is also out if any are interested. Can easily tell who I am with my game tag though it's nothing fancy, Armello Strategy & Tactics Multiplayer: Weighing in with Griotte, is the name for any interested in me killing a winning streak mwehehe. Last thing, my other "Back to Work" chapter event going on currently will stay up long as the nuisance is in effect. Alright all, see you next chapter.
