Disclaimer: I don't own The Loud House, the brand, as well as all of its characters and settings belong to Chris Savino and Nickelodeon, all rights reserved.
Chapter 66: Birthday (part 1).
6:00AM
Lincoln checked his chat:
*Hi Buddy, I know I fucked up badly, I want to make things up, please, just give me 1 chance, it would mean a lot if u could come tomorrow :D*
Yesterday, 1:15PM
*Seen*
He looked at his other conversations:
*Hi Stella, I know I don't deserve your forgiveness, I've been thinking a lot about us, I would really love to have our friendship back, could u maybe give me a chance to talk tomorrow?*
Yesterday, 1:30PM
*Seen*
…
*Liam, dude, I know I said a lot of nasty things before, I'm not asking you to be my friend again, but this isn't about me, it's about Lana, my sister really wants you in her life again, she hasn't been the same ever since and honestly, it would be an amazing birthday party for both me and her of you showed up*
Yesterday, 1:58PM
*Seen*
He kept browsing over his other "friends"
0 responses from Rusty
0 responses from Zach
0 responses from Ronnie Anne
0 responses from Chandler
Yeah… he even tried texting Chandler, at this point, he didn't care, at all.
He did not feel the need to make up with those people, he knew he had no friends anymore, he had long accepted that fact.
He only needed at least one of them to show up to pretend normalcy, it was evidently obvious that his mom and dad would make questions.
"Where is Clyde kiddo? He has never missed your birthday before…"
"Honey, did you forget to invite your girlfriend? Is there anything wrong between you two?"
He could imagine the questions already, he had several backup plans, but he needed at least one of those "friends" to show up.
- mmm…? - The weak, dreamy moan of his partner was heard in the middle of his contemplation.
- Morning, sunshine~ - Lincoln wasted no time, greeting her with warmth, hiding his phone in the process.
The only guest that actually mattered was already here, with him.
- Morning, birthday boy~ - Lola, being quite keen of her surroundings, despite still being half-asleep, remembered the special date instantly.
And with the naturality and comfort of a married couple, she raised her head from the shoulder that was holding her to give him a quick peck on the lips.
- 'kay, time to get outta here, can't show up to my man's special day in these - She said while pointing to her almost naked existence, covered by only her underwear, and giving him a sultry wink, to the albino's surprise, Lola's energy was back, she quickly got up and exited his room.
- Dang it… I wanted to cuddle some more… - Lincoln sadly thought to himself, if he could, his birthday could consist of only laying on his bed with his beautiful princess all day.
Regardless, time to play nice again!
…He'll get a little more rest first though.
8:00AM
- Morning Kiddo! - Lynn Sr. replied excitedly to the boy that was finally showing his face, going downstairs to sit by the Loud table.
The albino's eyes lit up, his dad had gone the extra mile, there was the equivalent of an old Loud family supply of Breakfast Burritos with extra cheese, with two already arranged at his plate, accompanied with scrambled eggs and a hot cup of cocoa, he didn't think he could even fit all of that in his belly!
- Wow dad, thanks! - Lincoln quickened the pace and jumped in to his chair to the side of the balding man, making sure to leave the other side empty for a certain person, then began happily indulging in his meal.
- You're welcome champ, so how does it feel to be almost a full grown man? - Lynn attempted to engage in conversation.
- Honestly… - Lincoln pondered the question, bits of burrito still in his mouth - Amazing! I'm finally old enough to drive and Mr. Facilier conceded defeat, so meet the number one magician in Royal Woods! - Lincoln declared proudly, pointing to his chest with his thumb to boast to his parents.
- Oh sweetie, I'm so proud of you! - Rita spoke next, putting her hands on her chest.
- Morning Family! - Through the hall, the surprisingly energetic voice of the renowned scientist was heard, Lisa was miraculously second to reach the table right after, sitting at the other side of where Lincoln was sitting, facing him directly.
- Morning Lisa, how is your latest project going? - Lincoln asked curiously.
- Glad you ask brother, first off, allow me to congratulate you on completing sixteen approximate earth translations since your inception - Lisa arranged her glasses, aiding her eloquent (though petulant) comment - Now, to preface, the CRISPR-Cas9 technology is a major breakthrough in the field of genomics, i'm sure you have already heard that from me before, my project is aimed at helping those who have major inconveniences with unwanted abstractions of the mind and therefore, are in need for external intervention to reprogram basic functions of brain chemistry with no major secondary effects - She crossed her arms, raising an eyebrow - I'm highlighting this project to notify you of a certain "secret" birthday present that I have prepared, so please come to my room whenever you are ready to receive it - She finished with a confident smile, startling the homaged teenager.
- Wow, eh, really? That sounds great, thanks Lisa! - Lincoln replied politely, but through her technicalities, a few words left him feeling with unease.
- No problem brother, anything for my family - Lisa concluded, before taking a burrito to eat in silence.
The parents looked at the exchange with a raised eyebrow, Lisa is never one to give birthday gifts, and the rare times she does, she always presents them for everyone to see…
- Morning - The low, monotone voice of the the maiden in black was heard next, she wasn't really heard going down, she was already approaching the side of the birthday boy, giving him a small jumpscare.
- Woah, uh, hi Lucy! - Lincoln turned his head to the left to watch the sister in question, who was holding a folded paper.
- Hi, Lincoln, happy birthday, I wrote a poem for you, please read it when you're alone - Lucy handed him the folded paper, her writing was hidden in it, Lincoln understood the intent and quickly hid it in his pocket.
- Thanks Luz, I will! - Lincoln threw a smile at her sister, redirecting his attention to his plate, Lucy then sat to the far side of the table, away from everyone.
Lynn Sr. and Rita kept exchanging weird glances at each other, Lucy is usually introverted and her voice is not heard much, but when it comes to poems, she is never afraid of reading them aloud…
- Hi Linky, happy birthday! - Lily came down next, rushing in to hug her brother, Lincoln interrupted his eating to return the hug.
- Morning Lil, how is your storybook coming along! - Lincoln looked at his youngest sister with tender eyes, he initiated the conversation this time along.
- Amazing! You've got to check it Linky, I even made a page for you, but only you can see it, 'kay!? - Lily expressed proudly, before going back to sit on the chair right next to the empty spot that Lincoln was saving.
Again, the parents flinched at this exchange, Lily is ALWAYS ready to show her drawings to everyone…
- Happy birthday - Lana showed up next, without an ounce of energy, without anything even remotely reserving a smile, without even looking at the person that the comment was directed to, she simply advanced to the entrance of the house and exited swiftly.
Lincoln barely managed to turn his head to see her, before she was out.
She wouldn't be here today, he knew already.
Lucy and Lisa failed to react, Lana's attitude was not a novelty; Lily simply made a sad expression, the sister that she had gifted that drawing back in Christmas Eve was gone, replaced by this Zombie.
Maybe it was her fault…
Lynn and Rita were angry, it was one thing to be an outsider, it was one thing to be awkward or introverted.
But it's a common Loud courtesy to celebrate important dates with their family members, there were no excuses for her behavior, they would have a real talk with her later.
However… now was not the time for unfortunate events to lower the mood, they already had enough issues as is.
- Ok, Kids, As you may know, it's still a little unsafe out there with those people around - Rita tried to formulate her next sentence - But that doesn't mean our Lincoln will not be enjoying his special day, so let's all celebrate here, as a family! - She placed her hands on the table to lighten the mood.
- Sorry for being late, I was trying this new make up set but it was awfully time consuming - At last, slightly interrupting Rita's speech, was the last remaining Loud member descending from the stairs.
Lincoln turned around and gasped at the sight, Lola Loud was a goddess, Her attire was more casual than usual, a pink tank top with cased blue jeans, showcasing her voluptuous curves, ending on shiny pink high heels, she had her beautiful blonde hair arranged in pig tails which were being held by black ribbons, giving her both an devilish and seductive appearance.
More noticeably, her make up was pristine, eye shadow, eyeliner and blush applied to perfection, and a radiant red lipstick adorned her inviting lips, she looked contest-ready.
Lola was very aware of her brother's reaction, she almost giggled because of it, but she knew better than that, she pretended ignorance, she walked casually to the table and sat in the chair that was reserved for her.
- Hey you, happy birthday! - She shoved her elbow on one of Lincoln's ribs with a frown, causing discomfort on her brother.
- …Thanks sis - Lincoln rubbed the affected area, trying his hardest to avoid any biological response.
- I guess I have to give you something, mmm… - Lola put a finger on her chin to signal that she was thinking - Got it! Here's fifty, you're welcome - Lola hastily handed her brother a pile of cash, which Lincoln begrudgingly accepted.
- Wow, much thought… - Lincoln glared at her, eliciting a reaction.
- Seriously Lincoln? I doubt you can't purchase anything that you want with that… - Lola crossed her arms and looked away.
- Intent is what counts, Lola, you could have at least given me something that you think I want… - Lincoln remained in his confrontational mood.
- Heck if I know what you want, Lincoln, not exactly my job to be aware of that, now do you want the money or not? - Lola extended her hand, demanding her gift back.
- …ok, I'll take it - Lincoln sighed, before hiding the money away in his pocket, this made Lola turn her face back to him with a victorious smirk.
Lynn Sr. watched the entire exchange, at last, some normality, Lincoln and Lola were truly back to normal, they were lively, confrontational but cooperative again like siblings should, not a single glimpse of compromising attachment!
Rita wasn't as comfortable, she looked like If she was preparing herself for a pageant, but it was not pageant season, nor was there a reason to "train" yet, Lola was really committing to her goal and she was positively stunning, but…
Afterwards, the family finished their breakfast calmly, some conversation from Lincoln and Lola themselves about their many achievements, some comments from Lily and her tales from elementary, even some addendums from Lisa, the mood was now overall positive.
It was then when the family began arranging some basic decorations for the other invitees.
*I'm beyond sorry for everything Mr. Loud, our daughter didn't tell me anything about a birthday party, do you want us to inform her?*
11:30AM
*Thats ok Ms. Zhau, thank you for answering anyways, let's leave that to the kids :)*
11:35AM
*Your welcome, come along whenever you can :D*
11:55AM
- … Have the McBrides said anything? - To his side, currently on their bed, Rita inquired on her husband's chat.
- …No, I'm seeing two blue check marks, so Harold must have read the messages - The perplexed father continue looking through his chat, many questions floating his mind - maybe we need to ask our son directly? - He pondered back to his wife.
- mmm… - The mother made a slight frown - I think we should wait for the party to be over, maybe they'll show up - She changed her expression to a cautious smile, looking at her husband in the eyes.
- I guess you're right hun - Lynn Sr. returned the smile - Let's get going, the cake should be almost ready -
- I thought Lola could handle it alone? - Rita asked mischievously, teasing her man.
- Her cakes are amazing, but the topping is my job! - The patriarch pointed proudly.
12:00PM
*SMACK*
- Oh em gosh! Where is Linky!? - Leni, the first guest, appeared through the door, excitedly bursting through it, the fashionista had miraculously arranged a free space to come visit the homaged boy, she was carrying many piles of bags containing his shower of gifts and was more than eager to share them right there.
- Leni! Welcome back sis - Lincoln was currently watching TV with Lucy and Lily, he got up quickly to give her a warm hug.
- Thanks Linky, it's like, always great to be back! - Leni happily returned the hug - I have, like, the best designs I've ever made, you totes have to try them out! - Leni then threw her bags carelessly at the albino, making him slip and fall.
- Woah, how were you able to carry this stuff? - Lincoln recovered from the fall, but was impressed at the weight of the many pieces of clothing that she had brought him.
- Well, a random stranger helped me out of the car and tried to give me a weird greeting with her fists, she looked kind of angry though, but we became friends so it's alright - Leni waved her hand in blissful innocence.
- So that's why the angry fangirl left… - Lincoln thought to himself, Leni's insane ability to make friends is truly a gift, hopefully no more vandalism, at least for today - Nevermind, thanks you for everything sis, I'll try them out for sure - He shook his head, reminding himself to be kind to his clumsy sister.
12:30PM
*SMACK*
- Well, well, if it's not my little brother, how would you like your show, I have pies and globes, or… would you maybe prefer a present? (Or a future?) - Luan glared at her puppet, having slightly ruined her uplifting entrance, filled with globes and clown nose sounds.
- Luan! How is the business going? - Lincoln got up from the couch, also ready to hug his sister.
- Careful there Linc, this suit is heavily armored with only the strongest watery flowers, I don't want to wash away your fun, get it? Hahaha - Luan halted her brother's approach, a fair warning to say the least - Oh, by the way, here's your gift, I promise it's not a piece of cake (to your face) - She handed him the box wrapped in paper, which Lincoln accepted.
Lincoln simply looked at the envelope, and given the lack of warnings and privacy, quickly tore it apart, revealing… a little bunny plushie, sort of like Bun-Bun.
By far, the best gift he has ever received from Luan.
- I figured you were missing your dearest friend after giving it away, so here I am to remind you that no matter how much you grow, you should always remember your roots ok? - Luan said softly, In one of her rare serious moments.
Lincoln didn't care anymore, he hugged his clowny sister and happily received the discharge of water, Luan laughed for a moment, before mellowing out and returning the messy hug.
1:00PM
*SMACK*
- Yo, wassap dude, ready to rock on! - Luna entered loudly, wearing her guitar and quickly connecting the speaker to the electricity port near the entrance.
How is that door not broken yet?
The loud family were now all sitting in the table, Lynn Sr. and Lola were bringing the cake, Lincoln looked back to the conveniently placed entrance of her musically-gifted sister.
The show had begun, she began singing a heavy metal spin of the classic happy birthday theme, her unbridled energy was the last part missing for this day, every sister and his mom and dad sung along to the homaged boy, who felt a special (forgotten) warmth in his heart.
The cake was promptly eaten, the flavor was spectacular, he knew that Lola had been mainly responsible for the base, he forgot just how good of a cook she was, specially for desserts and pizza.
Just how more perfect can she get? God, it was so hard to ignore her…
There was one lingering question though.
- Uhh, mom? - Lincoln directed his attention to the older woman.
- Yes sweetie? - She kindly interrupted her own stuffing of cake to look tenderly at her son.
- Where is Lori? - The boy addressed his concern.
- I'm sorry hun, forgot to tell you, she couldn't come, things are a little busy for her with arranging her new home with bobby - Rita looked at him with sympathetic eyes - But~ - She changed her demeanor to a more upbeat one - There's a certain gift from her waiting in your room - She redirected her attention to the food after delivering the secret.
2:00PM
The family was still gathered on the table, this time around, they were playing The Settlers of Cat-Land, forming coherent teams against one another, Lincoln teaming up with Lola by "mere causality" and taking the big cat structures with them, as well as the powerful cards, ready to beat the others.
- Man, you guys are totally cheating! (Not cool jokers!) - Luan (and Mr. Coconuts) were getting mad at the way Lincoln and Lola cooperated to rig the exchanges and the pulls, her own team up with Luna proving useless.
- I'm sorry? You do realize that your team is technically made up of three players? How are we the ones cheating?- Lola objected to her sister's accusation, pointing out the fact that Mr. Coconuts was a player too.
- Shh, whatever dude, we can't do anything, our bruh is a magician and you always pull your bloody mind tricks on us - Luna interjected as well, clearly frustrated at the combination of their abilities.
They rocked way too hard together…
- Yeah, like, maybe if Lynn was here we could do something, she always wins these games! - Leni tried to add her own discomfort, but her comment… had a poor timing, as she herself realized soon after.
The whole table was put on an awkward silence, some sisters lowering their heads, some remaining eerily neutral, and some eliciting a frown, the game continued as normal, everyone was trying to forget Leni's comment.
*knock* *knock*
The setting was soon interrupted by someone softly announcing their presence through the front door.
- I'll take it - Lincoln rose from his seat to volunteer himself to open it, surprised that the person in question wouldn't straight up blast it open like it's a tradition in his family.
He approached the entrance and opened the door.
He did not expect what he saw.
- … Hi Lincoln - From the other side, a certain familiar teenager gave a weak hand wave.
- Clyde? - Lincoln tried to pretend normalcy, but his surprise was too big.
- Uhh, can I… come over? - Clyde looked to the side, avoiding all eye contact, his lips curved in a sad tone.
- … - Lincoln was frozen.