Disclaimer: Craig Bartlett is the creator and he and Nickelodeon have the rights of the show.


37. Arnold cheats on Helga

– The Lloyd Country Club - Roofed pool -

- Yes and I was there… and there she was, in my arms… I'm dancing with another girl that isn't my girlfriend, and this isn't the worst part… I'm looking for another girl, that isn't Helga either and who was on my mind the entire week…

- Arnold? Is everything ok? You looked worried.

- Oh, don't worry Emily, I'm ok… I was just enjoying the music. - The singer, to be honest, I was enjoying the singer… her sweet voice, her dance, her eyes… I was hypnotized… But, how did everything start? My unfortunate situation started last tuesday.

— Lloyd's tower - Living room - 3 days ago –

- Mr Hyunh, are you sure that everything is gonna be ok? You really look terrible.

- Than… thank you Arnold, but it's just the flu. I'm gonna be ok, don't worry. Also, you have to go to school.

- Well but if you need something, I can come and help you.

- Shortman! Shortman! Come here!- Grandpa ran out from his favorite place, "his office".

- What's the matter?

- I've a clue! A perfect clue to recover our house.

- Really? And how?

- It is said out there, that a very important family of that jerk is gonna be here this week, for a charity event of the Lloyds. That family is very close to him. Maybe if we, and by "we", I mean "you", you gain their trust, we might manage to steal their papers. The father of that family, Arthur Horowitz, is their lawyer and he handles these matters.

- Wait, wait, what do you want me to do?

- Look Shortman, everything is in this newspaper from your friend's family that comes to us every Tuesday, here is her family, and according to what I've been investigating, it's them! Look, they have a daughter your age, maybe, if you use those charms that you inherited from me... you could, I don't know, convince her and...

- Grandpa, forget it, do you remember that I'm with Helga? She would kill me if she found out I was after another girl, and she would kill her in unspeakable ways.

- Oh Arnold! You're dull, you wouldn't cheat on her, it's just a mission to help the family, one of those you love to do so much. If the child were a boy, I know that she would help us.

-Of course not grandfather, she loves me and never would do that. She just wants to be with me.

- Oh yeah? Is that why you continue with that Count from time to time?

- I'd better go now! - Arnold frowned, took his lunch from the table and left in a hurry.

- That will be enough for you to agree, I am a brilliant old man!


— Big Bob's Beepers —

The door than separates the "house" and the store bursted open, and a blond drama queen crosses it.

- Oh daddy! What a disaster! I failed you! I couldn't help you with your investor… Also it was my worst date ever!

- Olga, honey, don't worry, it isn't your fault that Richard was… a man with different interests, if he couldn't appreciate your beautiness, it is his problem, not yours.

- Thank you, and again, I'm sorry.- I'd better get ready for school… Jamie O is going to die when I tell him this.

The blonde fled to "her room", while Bob dropped into his chair.

- Criminy! I trusted Olga's charms to convince those investors!

- Why Bob? Did yours fail? Or did they realize that you are useless? - The old woman said with a mischievous smile drawn on her face.

- You should treat the hand that feeds you better now that she is nothing more than a poor old woman.

- Oh don't worry Robert, I tell Miriam thank you for every meal, since she DOES PROVIDE for her house, not like you, imitation of a man. - The lady took her cup and returned to her room, satisfied with her bad deed of the day.

- That bag of wrinkles is right! I haven't had a single income in weeks... this investor is my key... Damn, it had to work out...!

- Hey Bob! - I greet his youngest daughter, with no interest in really greeting him. She grabbed her lunch and was about to leave, until her pigtails suddenly came undone. - Criminy, I'll be late!

- Wait a minute... - Bob thought to himself. - Richard has a son from his failed marriage... it could be...

-Bob? Why are you looking at me like that?

- Leave your hair like this, today we will spend the day together!

- Are you crazy? I would rather have measles!

- I said you will, come on!

Bob took her arm and dragged her to the car. His master plan was about to begin.


— PS 118 - 6th classroom —

Mr Simmons was talking and talking, but the big head of Arnold was in another part… trying to guess where she is, and why she is disappeared.

He called her last night, this morning and 10 minutes ago, when he asked to go to the restroom. The clock continued running and finally the period ended. The bell announced the lunch and Arnold would have bolted if his best friend hadn't gotten in the way.

- My man, relax, what is going on? Where is the fire?

- Is Helga, Gerald…

- Man, always is Helga, since kinder. Why didn't she come to school?

- I don't know, I haven't been able to talk to her since…wait, there's Phoebe, maybe she can help me. - The boy ran to his friend, who was talking with Rhonda, about some topic that he didn't like so much.

- I told you, I think that JJ and Helga are dating, I don't know why, because, I mean, I'm here.

- I don't think so, Rhonda, she doesn't like him, they aren't friends.

- Oh really? They are always together, they spend too much time together to be people who don't like each other… today, both of them didn't come to school… suspicious for me and… Arnold, honey, are you ok?

- Yes Rhonda, I'm perfect. - The blonde said while he broke the pencil in his hands. - Phoebe, can I talk with you?

- Sure Arnold, see ya Rhonda. - She and the worried boy walked out to the classroom and started walking to the cafeteria. - What's the matter Arnold?

- Your best friend is my problem. Do you know where she is? She doesn't answer my calls.

- Oh don't worry Arnold, she and his grandma will be spending some time together, it's everything and maybe she forgot her cellphone.

- Oh with her? Maybe I'm just overthinking, thank you Phoebe. In a few moments I'll go with you and Gerald.

- We'll save you a place. - She smiled nervously and walked to her seat.

- Yeah, everything is ok, I'm a fool, she is with her grandma and… - In that moment, his ringtone interrupted his monologue. - Gerry? But… Hello? Good morning Mrs. Viksten.

- Hello Arnold, excuse me dear, but I just want to know… For you, Helga is ok? I mean, she looked strange this morning.

- What? that Helga wasn't with you?

- With me? Oh… no, I mean, yes… sorry I see you later, chao!

- But…- Was useless, the call ended. - Oh, so, are you lying to everybody, Helga Pataki… perfect! If you want to play… I accept the challenge!


– The Lloyd Country Club - Roofed pool -

The hall was elegantly decorated. Apparently all the cream of business society was there, dressed to the best of their ability.

The doors were flung open, and through them came a smartly dressed Bob Pataki in a suit and a smartly dressed young woman with brown hair and brown eyes.

- Ok Bob, you were always too strange, but this time, you outdid yourself! Why am I dressed like that?

- I'm sorry Olga but I need your help, I want to impress an investor.

- And why could I, a simple teenager, help you in a business matter that not even you have been able to solve?

- Exactly for that! Besides, if you don't help me, you'll end up on the street too. Listen, it's not a big deal, these people will be here these days in these talks and Friday will be the big closing dance. I just want you to pretend to be a daughter of a client so that she trusts my image... that's all.

- Okay... But I want a juicy payment when this is over.

The girl held her dress to move faster, until they came to a guy with black hair who was going through some papers.

- Mr Elliot, it's a pleasure to see you again.

- Pataki? you again? We just had breakfast together... your daughter is gone already?

- Yes, you don't worry, I can't believe she harassed you like that.

- Don't worry... in that case take a seat. And she is?

- She is the daughter of one of my clients, she is brilliant, she is part of a gifted school, she advises me.

- Oh really? - Helga and Elliot said at the same time.

- What is your name, young lady?

- What's my name? - Helga looked nervously at her father.

- Introduce yourself dear, with confidence.

- My name is... Rachel... Rachel Green?

- Are you a Green? Excellent, your family is one of the most powerful, you will be able to advise me well! Indeed my ward is over here, young man!

The boy approached and the jaw of the "chestnut" fell to the ground.

- Count Jack! - Shouted the girl.

- Do you know me, my fair maiden? - The count took her hand and kissed it gallantly.

- I can't believe that everywhere I look, this jerk is there... although if he gets excited about Rachel... he could leave me alone...- An evil smile appeared on the girl's face at that thought. - Oh no, I'm not lucky, it's just that I've seen it in magazines.

- I see, I'm not surprised. Why don't we take a walk? And we let the adults talk about what they should talk about.

- Oh no, I'm here to advise Mr. Pataki and...

- Nonsense Rachel, you go and have fun, you deserve rest.

With his huge hand, Bob pushed his daughter away and she fell into Jack's arms.

- I know how we can have fun, let's go!

The boy took her by the arms and almost dragged her away. Unnoticed, the front door was flung open, revealing Phil and Arnold, very well dressed, walking into the room.

- Here is Shortman, the nest of rats. How did you change your mind?

- Let's say that Helga owed me, anyway, who is the subject?

- Tall, red-haired and clumsy, when you see someone like that, that's the signal, let's go!

The Shortmans crossed the room in search of their goal, until they managed to find the man who perfectly met the description.

- Grandpa! Look!

- Shortman! Brilliant like your grandfather. Come on!

They both ran until they reached the subject, Arnold accidentally bumped into the girl who was next to him.

- Very sorry.- He said, helping her up.

- Don't worry, I... Hello! - The redhead greeted, getting lost in Arnold's green eyes.

- Can we help you with something? - The lawyer joined the conversation.

- You must be Mr. Arthur Horowitz, nice to meet you. I am the friend of the LLoyds.

- Oh yes, they told me about you, that you were interested in the real estate business, why don't you come with me?

- It will be a pleasure, son, why don't you stay with the lady?

- It will be another pleasure. - Arnold smiled uncomfortably at the penetrating gaze of the girl, who took him by the hand and dragged him through the room.

- I hate these events for businessmen and Jr. businessmen, I know where we can have fun, let's go!

Arnold was dragged again by the girl, until they reached the recreational part of the LLoyd club, they arrived at what looked like a youth restaurant.

- Let's have a seat. It's almost two o'clock, the show is about to start. By the way, you haven't told me your name, handsome...

- Arnold, my name is Arnold.

- Well Arnold, let's enjoy. - The girl approached the uncomfortable blonde and secretly, he moved away a little.

- Welcome to our karaoke hour, here at Club L, the best youth club in Hillwood, we will start now! - The presenter finished the message and the first participant went on stage. The music started, it was soft jazz, the kind that Arnold loved so much and suddenly a girl with long brown hair appeared from behind, singing with enormous grace and a mischievous tone that made the blond's heart beat faster.

Her hips moved to the beat of the music and her voice changed agile tones. It was like a siren's song, Arnold was completely lost in her.


— Lloyd's tower - Living room —

- And then, that stupid gave me all his information. Isn't it great? - But the old man didn't hear an answer from his grandson. - Earth calling Shortman, are you here?

- Sorry grandpa, I agree with your plan.

- My plan? But I wasn't talking about it. What's wrong with you?

- No grandpa… everything is wrong.. forget it, I can't go to the club tomorrow.

- What? You can't leave me alone. Emily loves you, her dad loves you.

- Yes I know, but… I don't feel good about cheating people.

- Isn't cheating, is to recover our house, our territory, our legacy and heritage.

- But grandma must be doing something.

- Your grandma must be lost in Egypt or at jail. Everything depends on us…

- Ok… I'll do it… night.

- Excellent Arnold. See you tomorrow after school. And remember, wear your tuxedo.

- What am I doing?… maybe if I don't think about her… I'm thinking about her… what's wrong with me! - The tormented boy rolled onto his stomach, hitting his head on the pillow and sighed in exhaustion.


– Summer vacation after ends 4th grade – London

- So your Majesty, the girl who was in the theater in that college event is Helga Geraldine Pataki.

- Geraldine, huh? - The count Jack smiled with malice. - So that's the name of the girl who doesn't stop rejecting me.

- Yes Majesty.

- And what is she doing here? Because she's American, right?

- Her older sister is participating in the college event for bright young people.

- That means she won't be around for long... Her dad is the guy with the beeper's store, mmm… Charles, bring the baroque vase from my father's room... I have an idea.


– The Lloyd Country Club - Roofed pool - Present- Friday

Helga as Rachel were walking and talking with Mr Richard Elliot, her dad and the Count, who was taking her arm. The businessmen were impressed by the intelligence of the young girl.

- Rachel, I've to admit that this couple of days you've impressed me. You're very clever for your age.

- What can I say Mr Elliot! Mr. Pataki's... skills have helped me grow my survival skills. - Helga enjoyed Bob's anger and continued - I mean, for his advice and the closeness to my father.

- And Rachel, you showed me all the benefits of the beeper's business… Maybe on Saturday, after this Closing Dinner, we can talk about a contract… See you later, I've a meeting. Count, see you later.

- Of course Richard. My lady, I'll be waiting for you at the club.

- Oh yeah your majesty! - Hiding her grimace, Helga bowed to the Count and he left her with Bob.

- Helga, I can't believe it! You practically achieved the business!

- Yes, incredible Bob! Although the incredible thing is that I had to dress up as a clown so that you would remember my name. Anyway, it all ends tonight.

- Yes, yes, go and have fun.

- Yes… I'll have fun… finishing off the Count JJ once and for all...

As it had been happening all week, the Shortmen and their enemies entered behind Helga without them noticing her and sat down to talk calmly.

- Phil, I must admit that your negotiating skills are incredible! You helped me close several deals.

- What do I tell you Horowitz, I'm a genius! So, can we sign now?, huh?

- Sure, it's a deal! I'll go for the contract, you'll be an excellent assistant. I'll come back in a few. - The lawyer went upstairs, while Phil celebrated.

- Shortman is amazing! Now that I'll be working with Horowitz, I could search in all his papers!

- Yeah grandpa… is amazing…

- Oh, oh… teen problems, right?

- I think so… grandpa, Did you ever fall in love with another woman, after marrying grandma?

- Interesting question for a young man like you, Arnold. To be honest with you, I always joke about Hedy Lamarr and other women, but I'm pretty sure that Pookie is my soulmate, from the beginning in that school until today. For example, we don't know anything about her for weeks, and I really miss her, but I trust her and I know that in her crazy way she's solving things. What I want to say is, in life you'll meet a lot of mirage women, women that look perfect, comfortable, the easy way, but, in those moments you've to remember who always stayed with you. Do you know what I mean?

- Totally grandpa, thanks! I'm just angry with Helga because I know that she is on something that I don't know about.

- Just like your grandma, what can I tell you! That is the price of falling in love with the crazy one, but believe me, the crazy ones are the best. - The old man ruffled his hair and he smiled in response.

- Thank you! I have to go to Emily... maybe I should clarify everything...

- Without ruining the friendship, Shortman! I almost signed.

- Trust me!


– The Lloyd Country Club - Restaurant Club L – Dance -

The tables in the room were all occupied, in the center were Count Jack and Helga from Rachel, enjoying their dinner. Everyone present was waiting for her to finish and start her show one last time.

- So, you will go to London? - He asked interested.

- That's right, your majesty. I will be studying there from next week. I guess I'll see you there, right?

- It is not possible for me, the school year here in Hillwood does not end and they would not let me transfer and...

- Oh really? It will be a pity... I couldn't wait to study... together. - Helga said coquettishly, the count smiled at her.

- But since I am a man of contacts, I know that I will be able to achieve it… I will return, I will speak with my tutor.

- Yeah! I'll finally get rid of that idiot! - Helga said once her victim moved away from the table. - Starting tomorrow, I will be a free girl!

- Excuse me Miss Green, the diners were wondering if you could sing one more time? - An investor gentleman approached her.

- I am in an incredible good mood, it will be a pleasure.

Helga began her act once more, singing sweetly.

- Sweet raspberries! That's Pataki! - Grandpa almost choked on his drink. - Could it be that the girl Shortman was referring to would be... No! Not even him so clueless!

The aforementioned entered the room and looked again at "Rachel" against the light and again his heart beat a thousand per hour.

- Not again... it can't be! - Helga finished her act and went down into the crowd. - I must go and clarify everything at once!

The football head pushed past Emily, the lawyer, and his grandfather, pushed through the crowd, and finally, after bumping into a large number of people, reached her. He saw her talking to the last person he imagined.

- That stupid Count! But... What the hell is he doing here?

- Well Miss Green! It will be a pleasure to see you in England... I must go now... Have a good trip.

- We'll meet there. - He gave her a kiss on the hand and she dismissed him with a false smile. - You finally fell, idiot! - Helga turned around and faced her surprised boyfriend.

- Helga! It's you!

-Arnold?

- What are you doing here? - They both said in unison.

- I accompanied my grandpa in a crazy plan to recover the boarding house and you? Why are you...disguised?

- I accompany Bob in a crazy plan to recover his dignity.

- Dressed as "Rachel Green"?

- It's a long story, Olga wanted to flirt with her investor, not knowing that he prefers... male company, he was offended and didn't want anyone from the Pataki family with him.

- So it was always you! - The blond hugged his girlfriend so tightly that he felt like he couldn't breathe.

- Arnold, wait, they're going to see us and...

- It doesn't care! You're Rachel, remember?

- Hey, good point! What did you mean by "it was you"?

- Nothing... just that you're so unbelievably perfect that I just fell in love with you again.

- You what...?

A deep kiss interrupted the girl.

- Let's just dance.

The girl smiled back and they both began to dance.

- By the way, what were you doing with the Count?

- It turned out to be with Bob's investor, so I took the opportunity to get rid of him.

- Oh really? - Arnold's smile couldn't be bigger.

- Yes, and this time of his own free will.

- And when will you tell me what was your business with him?

- Uh, you really want to know, don't you Shortman? Who would say that you were a jealous man!

- Tell me, I'm your boyfriend!

- Oh no, because I'm Rachel, you go out with Helga.

- Helga, please!


– Summer vacations after ends 4th grade – London

- So, did your dad break my baroque vase? - The Count looked at her shrewdly.

- Yes… but it was just a mistake and…

- A mistake of 4 million euros…

Helga felt her skin tighten.

- I hope that you and your family have a way to pay for my family heirloom.

- Well no, we don't have how to pay for it and I know exactly why you do all this! It's because I didn't agree to go out with you! Well, I won't fall for your game!

- Oh Miss Pataki, please don't make me look so bad. I only ask for a chance.

- My answer was and will continue to be NO!

- It's a pity... then your father will have to be in jail for at least 10 years... maybe they can never come back to the US and...

- Wait... don't call the police... What do you want?

- I want you to always spend the time we are together with me, you'll see how you fall in love with me. If I find another girl, I promise to leave you alone... giving you this video of your father breaking the vase as proof.

- Okay... maybe we won't see each other again after this week... deal done.

- Oh yes... we won't see each other again.

— Big Bob's Beepers — Present- Saturday morning —

- Good morning, beautiful. Working from early?

The Count's sugary voice startled Helga, causing her to nearly drop the stack of beepers she was shaking.

- What are you doing here? It's too early to bother.

- I have come to sign some business matters with your father, he will tell you... and I came to show you that I am a man of my word. Take. - From his coat pocket he took a small film.

- Is it what I think it is?

- Yes Geraldine, it is proof of your father's crime. I have finally met a girl and I admit that you never fell in love with me.

- I'm glad you at least have a word.

- I am an English gentleman, I would never fail my word. I am going back to the UK today... It was nice meeting you Geraldine, I hope you can get over losing me and that my business with your family can really help you.

- Don't worry, I started wanting you to leave from day one, bye!

The girl with the pink bow turned around and continued with her work. Count Jackson got into his limousine and gave the signal to drive away, looked one last time at the shadow of the store window and sighed.

- Sir, I don't understand. - His servant put a tea cup in his hand. - Why did you never tell her that you found out that she was Rachel?

- Because a gentleman knows when to retire... and Shortman had already won that battle.

THE END


And here is the end of the Count's arc. He gave up on Helga, he was really in love with her, but everyone knows that this heart was taken a lot of years ago, and Jackson knew it since that summer vacation, but he wanted to meet who was the guy and try to win… So, he lost... or will they see each other again?

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