Disclaimer: Craig Bartlett is the creator and he and Nickelodeon have the rights of the show
21. A frost to remember: The crashing beginning
IMAGE RECOVERED, MATERIAL RESTORED:
– Sunset Arms - Arnold's room —
Arnold and his friends were in front of the computer, watching some funny videos and "planning their project", when the door opened, surprising them.
- Gerald! Phoebe is looking for you! She's very angry. - Harold said.
- What! Oh damn, why? What I had done… or hadn't?- The brunette stood up and left the room.
- Wow, sounds bad… Harold… Do you know if Helga is angry too? You know… just for asking… - The football head asked, fearing for his life.
- Don't worry pal, just Phoebe was angry… but… you know… maybe you must be angry with Gerald, I mean, if I was you, I'd be…
- Angry with Gerald? Why?
- Because… you know… the rule number one about best friends.
- Oh I know! Always share your candies, right?
- Shut up Eugene! Adults are talking, anyway… maybe I heard something important about you and your supposed best friend.
- Harold, please, get to the point!
- Ok, ok, I'll… Gerald is cheating on you…
- What? What are you talking about?
- Do you think that you really know him?
- Sure, he's my best friend since ever.
- Well, forget him! Did you know that he had a very argument with his brother and on purpose he didn't tell you!
- What? It isn't possible, I always help him when he has problems. Maybe he wanted to deal with the business on his own, as a secret.
- Oh no, it wasn't a secret, Phoebe and his new best friend Madame Fortress Mommy, knew everything!
- He only talked about it with the girls? - The boy was totally shocked, even Eugene felt his jaw drop in surprise. - I don't understand… Why did he not want to talk with me?
- He told them that he was tired of your cheesy and predictable advice… sorry Arnold, I feel your pain about all this stuff… Can you tell me how you feel? And turning a little to your right, I mean, my right.
The chubby boy guided his partner so that he was at just the best angle for Sid, who was filming everything from the skylight.
- I feel… angry… Sorry guys… I'm coming back! - If looks could kill, both guests would be fried, the owner of the room left the room totally upset, leaving Eugene perplexed and Harold completely satisfied. Suddenly his cell phone rang, he moved a little away from the redhead, who, in his astonishment, spilled the contents of his cup on Arnold's computer, causing some electrical sounds, somewhat dangerous.
- You got it?
- Affirmative Harold, everything was recorded!
- Perfect! I can already taste all the sweets that I will eat with my half of the prize.
- And the money that Arnold gave you! - Sid smiled triumphantly from outside.
- Oh crap! I forgot to ask for the bribe before the information!
- Harold, you're a fool, don't worry, I'll infiltrate the house in a moment. We will continue filming the story.
- Over and out. - The boy with the big eyebrow smiled and hung up the phone.
- Harold... Could you help me a little? I think the computer...
- Not now Eugene... I'm very busy. - He said before leaving the room, ready to feed the fire between the best friends.
— Sunset Arms - Kitchen-
Stella and Pookie were washing some vegetables, trying to ignore the argument in front of them. Helga was enjoying the moment, finishing the preparation of the dessert and the grandpa was trying to protect the Chinese checkers board of Oskar and his tricks.
- So… is it not our anniversary?
- No Gerald, it is next monday.
- What about your birthday?
- My birthday is on September 28th! - She said angryliest.
- Yeah, of course I knew it!
- Awesome performance, tall hair boy!
- Anyway… If I didn't forget a special day or date, why are you angry with me babe?
- Gerald, I'm not angry with you… I'm fine… what makes you think that I'm angry?
- Oh, is nothing babe… looks like Harold doesn't understand women like me!
- Oh yeah bro, you're all a casanova! - Helga laughed at her joke.
- It'll be better than I save my man from those jerks, I'll come back and…
- Guys! Can you come a second? - Suzie whispered to the young ones.
- What happens, Su? - The blond girl asked, as she freed her hands from the oven mitts.
- I need to leave Sunset Arms to go to Hospital, but I forgot my wallet in the kitchen. Can you bring it to me?
- Sure don't worry, but, if you asked me, you must face your ex some day, you can't hide forever, you deserve to do the things that you want with freedom.
- Like you and Arnold? - A big and proud smile spread across her face.
- Auch, you won this one, I'm coming in a second.
Helga returned to the kitchen, took the wallet, and before giving it to its owner, her boyfriend came through the door, with a face quite different from usual.
- Criminy football head, what's your problem?
- Nothing... Everything is perfect. - The young man looked directly at his target, with murderous eyes, which did not go unnoticed by his best friend.
- Hey bro! Sorry for leaving you with those guys, I was about to come back.
- Don't worry, I know, I can always trust you. - His tone of voice changed from sarcastic to accusative.
- Sure... uh... are you okay, Arnie?
- Everything perfect, I mean, if there was something wrong with me, my duty should be to tell you, right?
- I don't understand the tone, but yes, you know you can trust me.
- Even if I am predictable, sentimental and cheesy?
- What are you talking about?
- That you didn't tell me about your situation with Jamie O!
The boys began to raise the tone of their voices, drawing the attention of everyone present, including Helga who was about to leave and stopped short. Even Grandpa gave up his game, a distraction that Oskar's cheater was able to take advantage of. At that moment Harold entered the kitchen, eager for the good content he was about to record.
- Wait a minute… How did you find out about that?
- That… isn't important. - Harold added. - The important thing here is the lie Gerald… why?
- I didn't plan for it to be a lie…it's just…I intended to solve the problem myself…that's all.
- Oh sure! That's the reason because you called me "predictable, sentimental and cheesy"?
- I never called you like that!
- Oh really?
- Well Arnold, no in that way, you know… - The brunet scratched his temple, trying to find the right words. - It's only that we really know each other, so much that I actually know what you'll say about it and, cool news… your advice about talking worked… again!
- Because I'm predictable!
- Oh gee, Arnold, stop! It Was not a big deal, the boy just wanted some privacy! Is not the end of the world! - His girlfriend interrupted the drama.
- Of course! Because you did know everything!
- Helga… - Suzie tried unsuccessfully to call her attention, but she couldn't.
- Hey guys… I've a little situation here! - Eugene entered trying to find some help, but the answer of the angry couple was:
- NOT NOW EUGENE! - At the same time.
- Arnold, you aren't our dad, or our boss, we have the right to decide which things we want to share with you!
- Yes, and you're right, but the thing that really hurts me, is that he actually thinks all that stuff about me. - The blonde boy tried to defend himself.
- Oh, and tell me, are some of these things a lie?
- Do you think it! I knew it!
- Guys, please! - Eugene was now between the couple. - I've something important to tell you! It's about your computer Arnold.
- What is Eugene?
- Grandpa! Miles! The computer is on fire! - Suzie screamed, drawing the attention of all present.
Grandpa hurried to grab his fire extinguisher, called to his son, who was shoveling snow outside, and they quickly went upstairs to try to put out their equipment.
After foaming each other, they were finally able to put out the small fire.
- It was close! - Grandpa sighed quietly.
- Everyone is fine? Miles sighed in relief.
- All right here, hero. - His wife handed them towels so they could clean themselves.
- The good thing is that Suzie was there to... - Oskar interrupted his speech to turn to look at his ex-wife. - Suzie... you're back! I knew you would come back! You couldn't be upset forever! - Oskar ran to hug her, until she stopped him with her hands.
- Oskar, I came back... but not with you, much less for you.
- You heard her, parasite, now everyone out of here, the show is over. - Phil stated, leading everyone away from his grandson's room.
Everyone gradually returned to the kitchen, eager to see which of all the problems would continue its course.
- I'm sorry about your computer Arnold... At least now everything is fine! And now nothing can go wrong! - Eugene smiled with his classic enthusiasm, but seconds later, the electricity was cut off.
- Perfect Eugene, you messed it up again! - The boy with the unibrow said with annoyance.
- Relax everyone, I'll call the power station and everything will be fine... - Stella took her phone and seconds later her face changed.
- What's up mom?
- It's just... I don't have a signal, son.
- Neither do I. - Phoebe answered.
- This is the end. - Harold began his drama.
- Easy chubby, let's use the old phone. - Grandpa took the phone from the hall, but there was no line either. - Heavens, that redhead is bad luck!
- Here I have my old radio, perhaps you can inform us a little. - Arnold showed it to those present and turned it on so that everyone could hear.
- They are informing us that there are power cuts and telephone failures throughout the city, the snowfall has interrupted all communication, let's wait for information from the mayor soon.
- We're... stuck.
Arnold affirmed, while everyone looked at him terrified.
— Sunset Arms-Family room –
A pile of papers were around the floor of the room, Arnold was totally angry, trying to tolerate his friend, Harold was trying to escape to the kitchen and taking some food and an energetic Eugene was talking with too much happiness his ideas for the project.
- And we can visit the theater and interview the actress and handsome actors. Maybe we can watch their new musical, what do you think guys?
- Eugene, that's the stupidest thing that I never heard before! I'm a man, my reportage isn't gonna be about ridiculous men in leotards.
- They aren't ridiculous! The leotards help them to move easily and gracefully! What do you think Arnold?
- I don't know Eugene, maybe this one I'm with Harold… I'd prefer to talk about another thing a little… I don't know… interesting?
- Oh guys! You really don't know what is interesting!
- Arnold! Your other friends are here! Come and visit our King! - The grandma appeared followed by Helga, Gerald and Phoebe.
- Hey guys! You came early! - Arnold smiled at them.
- Hey football head! You grandma said free food, and we are here!
- Actually it's time to go to the kitchen and help Mrs Shortman I and II. See you handsome! - Phoebe gave Gerald a sweet kiss on his cheek and went to the kitchen with her bestie.
- Helga is cooking with your mom and your crazy grandma? Why? - Harold asked, totally confused.
- Oh… yeah… that is for…
- Tell them the truth Arnold, it's not a big deal, I wanted Pheebs to come with us and the only way was by inviting Helga, that's all.. - Gerald helped his nervous friend.
- Oh… it made sense to me. - Eugene said. - Well, Gerald, what do you think about a reportage of the wonderful theater's world? Huh?
- Sorry Eugene, I'll pass… wait a minute… Simmons inscribed you in that stupid contest?
- Yes, we had a lot of delays… - Arnold admitted with a little embarrassment.
- Poor of my man! Please, don't do it about leotards!
- I said the same. Guys, come on to my room, maybe we can inspiring us at internet
- I'm following bro!
Arnold, followed by Gerald and Eugene went upstairs, when Harold tried to follow them, a hand took his shoulder.
- What in the world?
- Don't worry Harold, it's just me, Sid! - He put his hand on his mouth, but his friend moved it.
- What are you doing! You scared me! I will kill you...
- Relax Harold, I've excellent news for us! We'll win that stupid reportage contest!
- How? And I'm on a team with Arnold and the stupid Eugene.
- Forget about them… according to my last investigation… Gerald is cheating on Arnold…
- What! What do you mean?
- Gerald lied to Arnold on purpose and everyone, even Helga knows about his problem.
- Perfect… It sounds better than a stupid ballet report for girls! We can also receive more than an award... - Harold smiled mischievously.
– Sunset Arms - Arnold's room —
- Gee, it's so cold today…- The green-eyed boy looked for his blanket, trying to escape from the cold sensation. Then, he opened his eyes and saw a beautiful white cape in his skylight. - It's a snowy day! Yeah!
The preteen jumped from his place and turned on his radio, waiting for the classical announcement of schools closing.
- Hello everyone, these are the schools that will be closing today: PS115, PS116, PS117… - The locutor read with a voice that denoted some envy for the students, getting rid of their occupations.
- Oh please, the PS118, please!
- PS119 and PS120.
- Oh… damn… - The football head fell back on his bed in frustration.
- Oh, wait a minute, PS118 is closing too, I don't know why I always forget to name that school, anyway, happy free day students!
- Perfect! Now it is a snowy day!
Quick as a bullet, the young man jumped into his closet, bundled up and went downstairs, thinking about what he could do with his friends and girlfriend in the late snowfall of the beginning of February.
snowfall.
- Hey, Shortman, are you awake? - His grandfather from the kitchen interrupted his grandson's career.
- Hey grandpa! Yes... I was about to go look for my friends... don't tell me there are snowfall's chores…
- Don't worry, your parents actually do it early this morning.
- Awesome! So it's time to go and…
- Wait a minute champ! We need you here in Sunset Arms. - His dad interrupted.
- Why? What's happening?
- Your mom and I'll make a special lunch… because… I've excellent news!
- Are you moving with Oskar? - The old man smiled.
- No dad, you know what I'm talking about.
- Yes I know, but I don't lose my hopes. - Phil crossed his arms.
- What is dad?
- Your mom and I were invited to teach in the Public college of Hillwood!
- Congratulations dad! It 's amazing!
- Yes! we're totally happy! I'll be teaching in the anthropology department and your mom is helping with alternative medicine.
- I'm so happy for you guys! I'll be there at lunch… but… I'm wondering if…
- Don't worry son, your friends and Helga were invited, they would be coming in a couple of hours.
- dad, you thought about everything.
- It's a very special day son, I had to.
- Perfect, in that case I… - But the knocking of the door interrupted the talk again. - I'm coming! - Arnold said and then opened the door. - Eugene, Harold? What are you doing here?
- Hi Arnold! Isn't it a beautiful morning? I love the cold days, the snow, the hot cocoa cups, and playing peacefully with all our friends and…
- Oh Eugene, please, shout up! I'm tired and hungry! Silence!
- Guys… it isn't that I'm not happy to see you, but, what're you doing here?
- May Mr. Morning Cheer tell you! I need some food, I'm hungry!
The older of the boys made his way towards his destination, leaving his perplexed friend behind.
- What's up Eugene?
- Oh, I assume from your expression that you forgot our school project on reporting?
- Oh yeah! I totally forgot! Come in, we can get started and have it ready for tomorrow.
- Get away from my pancakes chubby boy! I finally got some decent ones and you won't take them from me! - The threatening voice of the grandfather graced the room.
- Come on, before my grandfather finishes Harold.
The redhead nodded and they ran to the kitchen.
– Vine street —
A few miles away from the guest house, a trio of friends were walking and talking about the last events of their lives.
- So let me understand… you had passed one of your most important and mature events of your recent life and to avoid a cheesy and predictable Arnold's advice, did you decide to hide all the business from him?
- Like a short resume… yes… - The brunette said with some guilt in his voice.
- Oh bro, don't worry, I'd do the same, you know, I love the guy but, we've to admit that he sometimes doesn't have his feet on the ground!
- Wait a minute… Did you say.., " I love"? - Gerald stopped short and the girls next to him with him, the girl with the unibrow felt how the blush on her cheeks increased dangerously fast. Her best friend laughed a bit in complicity with her boyfriend, and decided to help her by changing the subject a bit.
- So… the special lunch is for the Shortman's new jobs, right?
- Yep Pheebs, Mrs Shortman, mother, asked us for help to prepare our now very popular cookies!
- Excellent! I have been practicing and, with modesty, I've to admit that my cookies are delicious now!
- Oh girls, please, I'm not Arnold, I know what I've heard! You said that you…
The brunette couldn't complete the sentence because his annoying friend closed his mouth, crushing his lips.
- If you repeat the thing that you believed you listened to, Arnold will know all about your little secret that you're hiding things from him!, Deal?
- Ok, ok, I'm a grave!
- Oh, trust me Geraldo, you'll be one, let's go and eat for free!
The boys walked away to cross and reach their destination, ignoring the spy behind them.
- So that was the secret... I knew it! Harold must know! - Sid smiled evilly and prepared to appear in the crowded guest house. - -I'd better follow them... what could happen!
The boy ran in a hurry, trying to film his friends.
The camera image showed Miles's face up close.
- Is this recording, honey?
- Yes Miles! You did it ! Put it here on the table and help me cook the buns.
The camera feed showed him falling and landing on what looked like a pig's back, after which the recording cut out and a sign appeared:
END OF RECORDING
The boy who found the camera was perplexed by everything he had found, his dog's leash jerks brought him back to reality...
- With all this material, I will win that Reportage contest! He smiled triumphantly as he walked back home.
THE END
And that's all my friends! What did you think... a madness huh? Was a very different episode with a lot of plots, very funny to write! See you next one!
