The Princess and the space cowboy

by Sebastopa

Lincoln and Lola continue the story from "A dark and story night", but it's just the two of them! Warnings: Brother x Sister Incest (Lolacoln) and age difference dynamic at play, don't like don't read.

92. Chapter 91: Family (part 3)

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.

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Chapter 91: Family (Part 3).

The mother kept exchanging quick glances to the controller, then back to her kids, biting her lips and trembling slightly, all eyes, expectantly, were on her, giving that no matter how much coarse language and violent threats were displayed in each of the monologues, she never corrected any of her children.

She didn't say anything…

Because she wanted to hear them all.

At last, Rita was ready…

And her first action was to return the controller to the child genius.

- Lisa honey, please do me a favor and deactivate Todd - She said while looking at her daughter with kindness.

Lisa thought of a moment to argue, but in the end, she just obeyed.

- …Yes, mother - She said quietly - Todd, deactivate the protocol until further advice! - She commanded, to which the robot simply obeyed without verbal response, releasing the taser from it's claw.

- Thanks sweetie! - Rita addressed her daughter kindly one last time, before finally centering her eyes on Lincoln and Lola, changing to a serious expression.

The couple grasped their hands more strongly, mentally preparing for her words.

The mother sighed.

- Kids, I will not take part of a voting game, this is not a matter that I want to address like this, I believe everyone made an equally valid point, actions were made and can't really be changed, and I believe that if we want to make a decision about this, we all have to be on the same page for it, we will solve this like a family - She stated in no uncertain terms, looking at all of her children seriously.

She then raised from her spot and directed herself to Lincoln and Lola, looking over them with her arms folded and a stern look, said look later devolved into a sad expression.

She spoke again.

- I just hope this is also a lesson to you two -

- … -

- Lola, Lincoln, you were both incredibly selfish -

- … -

- Relationships can come and go, once the period of "passion" is over and the "butterflies" are gone, the only thing actually keeping you two together is a bond that has to be worked hard through discipline and commitment, but you can never be sure if said commitment will always be there, specially with as little dating experience as you two had -

- … -

- What if it didn't work out? What if either of you had actually fallen out of love? What if you had a bad breakup? How could you even look at each other's faces knowing that you're still family and that brothers and sisters have to support each other unconditionally? Specially while you were still living in the same house?

- … -

- How would you look at the rest of your siblings after that? Knowing that you went for so long against your own family members, lying to me and to… Lynn, while doing… that, where even Lily was listening? -

- … -

- I don't even want to mention this, but there was also the risk of a very early pregnancy, no matter how much protection you use, this could have been a very traumatic experience for you, Lola -

- … -

- Did you ever stop to consider all that? -

- … -

- Listen, what you two do in your private time and who you choose to be with is no longer my responsibility - Rita stated, before kneeling slightly to Lola's height - you're above the age of consent in Michigan sweetie - She then got closer to Lincoln - …and I trust that you're now fully capable of living independently as an adult with whoever chooses to be your partner honey - The mother then stood up again, looking at the pair - …but you both need to realize that your situation needed to be taken seriously back then, and that adults decisions had to be made, not just because of what we thought about you two being together, but also because of the damage that you were doing to yourselves -

Rita sighed.

- …Now I know, that our solution wasn't the best either, Lynn could not see it, which is why I had to take matters into my own, but as you can see, lies never really end well - Rita reflected on her own, as she continued looking strong for her children - …I'm sorry Lincoln, for everything that happened after that day, I as your mother should have never cut contact with you, and I'm glad to see you here honey, trying to fix things with us - She then stood up, looking at her other daughters - But it can't be just them, if we all fought hard for a chance to make this reunion happen, it lies in all of us to have an honest conversation and understand everyone's point, that is the only way in which we can be together again, as a family -

She then turned one last time at her son and daughter.

- What I mean to say is - She looked sternly again - I can't object to the two of you being together anymore, I understand that you have found happiness with each other and as your mother, that's what matters the most to me - she stopped for a moment, looking at them with unease - …but you should have waited until you were more mature to actually make that decision… maybe that way, things would have ended better… - She finally looked down, reflecting on her own sadness, which the rest of the supporting family copied in understanding.

Except for Luna.

- No mom, that's not everything and you know it! - She insisted with rage - You can't just let'em go with a slap on the wrist and be chill, these punks kept slaying the bed at the expense of our trust, our jock sis's not even here, do ya think that's normal or something? - She then directed her attention to the siblings front and center - That was not fucking cool at all dudes, and it really disgusts me that you're showing your faces again at this house while holding hands like some band of horndogs, you ruined everything! -

- Luna -

- Shut up Lucy, you're also the problem -

- No -

- What'dya say? -

- I said, No -

- No what? -

- NO, I WON'T SHUT UP LUNA, NOT THIS TIME AROUND! - To the surprise of everyone, Lucy stood up, and raised her voice, in one of the loudest tones she has ever used - Not ever again! - She resumed, upfront - I had enough of allowing despair to rule my life, I had enough with silence being my only language, I had enough of not being strong enough and allowing my family to deteriorate again, I now realize that I just wasn't trying hard enough, because if I had actually done so, we wouldn't be in this situation in the first place - Lucy stated firmly, glaring at her punk sister - I also, had enough with your hypocrisy - She hissed, making Luna stand up as well.

- …Care to explain what you're implying there sis? - The noisy rockstar warned, folding her arms at the accusation.

- Wow wow guys please, let's calm down - Lincoln tried to interject.

But his plead was stopped by his partner, who quickly grabbed him by the hand.

- Lincoln, let it happen, sister protocol - Lola commented seriously, eyes focused on Lucy and Rita, the latter of which nodded, before sitting again on her spot, crossing her arms while paying attention.

Lucy and Luna simply ignored their brother and continued glaring at each other.

- They ruined everything, you say? - Lucy questioned with a raised eyebrow

- Do you see Lynn here? Do you see Pops here? No? Exactly! These dudes have the audacity to show up and pretend to "fix our family" and yet they have the nerve to hold hands in front of us like if this whole mess hadn't even started because of that? - Luna shrieked with trembling fists - How the hell can you even stand up and talk with so much shite in your mouth dude, isn't this enough "darkness" for you? -

- And do you sincerely believe that this whole situation was just Lincoln and Lola's fault!? - Lucy objected, raising her voice even further - Have you ever stopped to consider, at least for a single second, that perhaps the true culprit of this predicament lies beyond the single act of forbidden love? Have you ever at least reflected on the fact that it takes more than a little girl's wish for a family to be destroyed and fall into despair? Have you ever considered, that perhaps, we all played a part in this? - The goth questioned with clenched fists and a daring attitude.

- How the hell did I play a part in this!? - Luna got closer to her brooding sisters, arms raised in confrontation - I tried everything to fix them back, Lori, Leni, Luan, we all knew that Lola was ill, but we all wanted to be there for the lil' dudette, we thought that she had finally moved on, we trusted her and allowed her to open up and reunite with her bruh, we even gave them the chance to bond normally as bro and sis, here, you can ask Lori how we worked hard for those Dairyland tickets - She added emotionally while pointing to the eldest, who at this point was still messing around with her phone.

- Leave it Luna, we can't reason with these people - Lori commented, her eyes still fixated on her phone - Apparently, child sexual abuse is allowed, incest is allowed… Allowing the predator to kidnap his victim is allowed - She hissed the last part while glaring at her mother - Oh, and I guess literally assaulting an innocent woman is also allowed - She growled, this time pointing at Lincoln -

And after a few seconds of silence, Lori took her time to hide her phone, then placed her sight on the youngest, who at this point was sitting in silence, hugging her dear bunny and avoiding any display of emotions.

- Lily, I've made my choice, you're coming with me - The woman suddenly stood up, and quickly moved past Lucy and Luna, where the little girl was sitting - This environment is dangerous for you -

But as soon as she was reaching for her small hand, Lily also stood up and got away from her reach.

- I'm not going anywhere sis - Lily defied with a frown while making a tighter grip on the little plush.

- Lily, I literally don't have time for games, I need to get you away from this predator, come on we don't have much time, Bobby and I will take care of you, and you'll get to play with your nephews and nieces, come on it will be fun - Seeing her resistance, Lori tried to kneel to her height, reaching her arms with a warm smile.

But Lily wasn't having it.

- I don't see any predator here, what are you talking about sis? - She remained stoic, avoiding Lori's reach.

- Ugh, Lily, please, we've talked about this before, I know you used to like him… I did too, but that was before, you have to understand that he can harm you, you're now the age were he started doing dirty, improper things to his own sister, you're not safe here - Lori tried one last time.

- Linky would never harm me! I love him and I want to be here with him! - Lily ran away, getting closer to were Lincoln was sitting and dropping herself on him, snuggling her head in his neck and making the albino automatically react by petting her head with a warm smile.

The rest of the sisters simply watched the scene with a variety of different emotions coming from them, as Luna and Lucy proceeded to take their seats again.

But Lori, of course, reacted badly.

- L-Lisa, please activate your robot, this is dangerous! - She exclaimed, panicked.

- Negative, eldest sibling, I see no immediate hazards to Lily's security - Lisa replied confidently with a relaxed disposition.

- Ugh, forget it, I'll do it myself! - Lori said angrily while approaching the frame of her brother and quickly snatching Lily away, holding her against her will.

- H-hey, let me go! - She tried to struggle, before resorting to biting Lori's thumb, making her drop the little girl in the act.

- Ouch! - She shrieked in pain, before hiding her hand - You know what, fine, let's play your game Lincoln, counter was 4-4 right, well let me tell you what, Lynn is not here, you know what that means? -

Lincoln refused to answer

- You don't even need to answer, you already know were I'm coming at, she would obviously never approve on this, and her not being here is literally all the proof that you need - She stated seriously while glaring deeply at him - So, please, just, leave - She avoided eye contact while pointing to the door.

- Now hold on a minute - Lana interrupted - So suddenly Lynn is a part of this family? - She complained with a frown -

- Well, duh, of course she is, she's one of your sisters Lana, show some respect, you know very well why she's not here! - Lori turned to her attacker with a raised eyebrow.

- Exactly, she's not here, when everyone else was, when even I was, despite having everything to lose by being here with judgmental people like you and Luna! - She crossed her arms defensively.

- Come on sis I wasn't messing with you, you do you, this is about your twin and our bruh -

- Shut up Luna, you're attacking my family for the same reason you would have attacked me, this is for you too! - Lana exclaimed loudly, shutting up her punk sister.

- Listen well Lori - She directed her speech at the oldest - Family is not just about the blood relation, family is about the people that stick with you and support you in your best and worst times, family is about the people that relate to your struggles and stand by your side as your world crumbles, family is about the people that will always watch your back and will never judge you, no matter how bad things look, family is someone that will do everything to be present when an important decision is being taken, and Lynn never did any of that! - She exclaimed loudly, while pouring some tears of frustration - If Lynn is allowed to count as a vote, then I'd say Clyde gets to vote too, he was more family today by just being present here than Lynn ever was! - She then turned to the pastry expert besides her, who had wished to not involve himself up to this point - Right man? -

- Well… - He struggled to avoid the awkwardness, but by seeing the reaction and the words directed to his best friend, he also knew that he couldn't stay silent - …If it was my choice, I would vote for Lincoln to stay -

- … pfft duh, obviously - Lori dismissed his comment while rolling her eyes.

- But - Clyde actually interjected his former crush - It's certainly not because I'm willing to support Lincoln on everything just because I'm his friend - He prefaced with a serious look - Look guys, I'm really not someone that wants to be considered a part of your family, I liked you guys, and I also liked hanging out with Lincoln back then, but… things change, people change - He hesitated to continue, as his speech was now being directed at Lincoln himself - There was a time, believe me or not, where I would have also agreed on Lincoln leaving, in fact, I don't think it's a secret to some of you, but we stopped being friends for a long time, and being all of that time without him, allowed me to get something called, perspective - He continued, this time with more confidence - Lori, Luna, Luan, I understand how you feel, and It's certainly news to me that Lincoln would have been capable of touching Leni, let alone hurt her - He actually glared at his brother, who averted his gaze in shame - I'm not even surprised, he showed me a really nasty side of him back then - He then looked down in sorrow - So really, believe me, I understand where you're coming from, I'm done blindingly following all of Lincoln's plans without question, I'm done agreeing with him for everything, and I'm done being told that I was just… a sidekick - He remarked with leftover bitterness - …I'm his best friend, by choice, and this time around, it's as equals, I know Lincoln made many mistakes in the past by choosing to act on his feelings and I know that this situation is not to be treated lightly - He admitted with resentment.

He then turned to the others, a new confident grin displaying on his face.

- But I also know, that the Lincoln that you see here, is a changed man, he loves and cares for his family, he sacrificed his dignity and risked his butt just coming here, to make amends with you guys, had he wanted to, he could have easily left to some faraway country in Asia to be with Lola in peace, he could have abused his power further to avoid being tracked, and I know from experience, that had he wanted… - Clyde struggled at his next words, remembering painful memories - …He could have easily destroyed all of you - He finished, while keeping a fixated stare at Lori.

After a few seconds of silence, the whole reunion heard a small whimper, which made them all look In shock at the source.

- Um… Now that I notice - This time around, Leni spoke, and the entire room fixated on her - …Linky hasn't defended himself once - She shyly allowed her words to come out - H-he only said things to a-apologize and calm things down - The pure woman then landed her frightened sight on her brother - L-lincoln, y-you don't need to e-endure all of this, why are you letting them say all of those mean things to you? y-you know you can always talk to me, If something is bothering you - She then mustered all of her courage to smile warmly at her beloved brother.

But Lincoln simply looked at her, and his tears did the talking, as he simply turned his head to avoid any eye contact.

- Linky, it's okay, I want to hear you too - Leni continued looking warmly at him, as the environment got a little tense, with Lola holding his arm for support.

- …I-I'm sorry - Lincoln spoke quietly.

- What was that? - Leni couldn't quite hear.

- …I'm sorry, Leni - Lincoln tried again, but still without strength.

- Sorry about what Linky? - Leni was now concerned, despite the slight fear that she still felt towards her brother, she actually felt the need to stand up.

- n-no, please Leni, listen to what Lori said, she has a point, I hurt you, and I can't take that back - Lincoln retracted slightly, which made Lola reach for his hand to massage it slightly with her own.

- Um, that, like, I don't know anymore Linky, I was afraid, I am still a little afraid - Leni looked to the side - but, I can't stand all the awful things that they're saying about you either - She also allowed a few tears to spill on her own, before turning to her other sisters - like, guys, what happened here? Lori, Luna, why are you being so mean to Lincoln and Lola? Don't you care about them anymore? -

And at that, her older sister stepped up, and simply hugged the ditzy blonde.

- Leni, I know you're sweet and attentive to all of us, but you need to understand that what Lincoln did to Lola is not excusable by any means, and he tried to physically harm you right? - Lori questioned sincerely, to which Leni reluctantly nodded - I see, and you were nothing but nice to him right? - She asked again, to which the ditzy blonde nodded with sorrow; Lori then turned her head to look concernedly at her from up close - then, you need to stay away from unpredictable people like that -

- But, he was in a lot of pain Lori - Leni then recalled the dreadful experience - Maybe he had a reason to do that, maybe I was not welcome there for a good reason, if Lola doesn't hate him for that, then maybe I shouldn't either! - She insisted while looking over at the couple.

Then Lincoln spoke again.

- No, Leni, Lori's right, there was never a "good reason" for it, you didn't deserve what I did to you, I was always the bad guy, you never did anything wrong Leni… I just couldn't accept anyone in my life anymore - Lincoln confessed with melancholy - I don't deserve your forgiveness, and honestly, I don't deserve Lola's forgiveness either, I was a monste-

- LINCOLN! -

The first thunderous scream in the house… came from Lola herself, as she made sure to leave his ears ringing.

- Don't you DARE repeat that again got it!? - Lola raised her voice this time around, and everyone stood still at the scene - If I forgave you for that, it's for a damn good reason Lincoln Loud, I'm tired of hearing you wallowing in self-hatred, you know exactly where that lead me - She then grabbed him by the shirt to force him to look at her eyes - this is exactly the reason why I made Lisa and Todd create this space, the others are allowed to say whatever the heck they want, but so are you, and I won't pretend that I'm just letting every single insult against MY BOYFRIEND slip through the cracks - She glared at the others while saying that - Now, go ahead, show me the guts that you had while apologizing to me, go and talk to Leni - She the turned her sight back to Lincoln while slightly pushing him off the chair - And Lori, you better sit down or I'll reactivate Todd, did I make myself clear!? - The floor shook slightly at her foot stomping the ground with strength, making even the eldest sister retreat.

- Tsh, whatever - Lori pretended to be calm, taking out her cellphone and sticking to it.

Now, standing up, it was just Lincoln and Leni.

And Lincoln mustered what little courage he had, and from a distance, began his attempt.

- Leni… I don't even know where to start, but honestly… I'm glad that you voted against us - He confessed first, noticeably annoying Lola, and making Leni turn her eyes away while rubbing her arm - … I promised, since the beginning of this reunion, that I would not try to earn your sympathy with pretty words, so I'm glad the voting is out of the way - He scratched the back of his head - …but even then, it still feels hard to believe that I deserve any forgiveness from you, I know that Lola won't let me sit again until I do, but I also can't help but side with Lori here - He said while exchanging a quick look with a puzzled Lori - So I'm going to try my hardest to feel like if I deserve it - He then looked seriously at his kind sister - Leni, please, say the worst thing that you can say to me - He pleaded.

- W-what, but, L-linky, like, I don't h-have anything to say - Leni shied away, retracting a little.

And Lincoln perceived the fear.

- Leni, look around you, if I touched you, Todd would knock me out with a discharge, Lori would then turn me into a human pretzel, Luna would break her guitar in my head, Lana would command a bunch of snakes to bite me, and don't even get me started in what Lola would do - He said that last part with some hilarity while stealing a glimpse at an amused Lola, who cracked her knuckles accordingly - So please, all I'm asking you, is to get it out, I know you are afraid me, but I bow to never in my life hurt you again - The albino let that last part out while kneeling, showcasing as much loyalty as he could.

And Leni kept looking over her shoulder, unsure of what to say.

Lincoln got the message and stood back up.

- Thanks Len, I agree-

- Lincoln - And now, he was the one standing in shock, as Leni took a step forward and grabbed his shoulders, looking seriously at him - I won't say anything mean to you, because I have nothing mean to say to you - She finished her sentence with a warm smile - I agree with Lola, please don't beat yourself so badly, my little brother should never allow someone to say mean things to him, that's like, so not him! - Her warm smile increased - Linky, I totes forgive you - She said with tears in her eyes.

And then, suddenly, he received a push from Lola herself from behind, forcing him into a hugging position with his sister, which he couldn't avoid, as he happily accepted it back, letting a few tears slip in the process.

- I'm not afraid anymore Linky - Leni looked directly at his eyes while saying that - And now that I think about it - She then turned her head to the scientist, who was simply watching in awe up to that point - Lis, can I change my vote? -

- Uh, Leni, I don't think that will be necessary anymore - Lisa clarified, as the "game" had clearly stopped since Rita's intervention.

- Seriously, like, I totes want Linky to stay now! - Leni exclaimed happily, earning a fews cheers from Lana and Lily and making her brother smile warmly.

But of course, not everyone was content.

- …great, another one - Luna interrupted the moment.

- Luna, why can't you move on? - Lucy spoke as well.

- The damage Is already done -

- And we all caused it -

- I'm not the incestuous pedophile here -

- But if it's true love, what is the problem? -

- It's just wrong ok! - Luna exclaimed, deeply exhausted at this conversation, as Leni and Lincoln had already taking their seats again, not willing to intervene.

- Wow, so my liberal sister is suddenly the one with the moral high-ground, how great - Lana added her two cents as well.

- What's wrong with you dudes? did everyone forget what we're dealing with here? Just because Leni can forgive a serial killer doesn't mean he stopped being one! -

- How is the serial killer analogy appropriate? - Lisa questioned with indignation.

- Ugh, point is, none of this changes anything, Lynn is gone and pops is gone, and you can't just pretend to side with the culprits -

- Luna, please listen, I already told you, everyone is the culprit here, Lincoln and Lola made mistakes, they engaged in forbidden love, and they lied and cheated to get away with it - Lucy prefaced as well, a little more calmly than before - But none of this would have ever unfolded… had we actually accepted it in the first place - Lucy lowered her head at the admission.

- I would like to emphasize my somber sibling's assertion further - Lisa spoke next - There seems to be a logical fallacy perpetrated by Luna thorough the course of all of this chaotic and unorganized discussion - She mentioned with slight annoyance - It seems that the justification applied to derive all guilt in this matter to my elder brother seems to rely on the fact that any and all attempts to "save" our family were centered around the concept of stopping Lola's feelings towards him, and this… as I would understand later on - She gloomily mentioned that last phrase, before recomposing - was nothing but a counterproductive measure based on simple confirmation bias, for I at some point, realized that I was only watching the solution that I wanted to see - She stated in no uncertain terms.

After that, she turned her attention to Luna.

- non-sequitur; your entire premise was based on the fact that our family falling apart was originated from a single source, instead of analyzing the multiple variables that all contributed to the loss of communication, the departure of some family members, and perhaps most importantly, the divorce of our parental units -

- Ugh, shut up Lisa, you technicalities don't apply here -

- On the contrary, older sibling, if you don't use basic logic reasoning, you entire premise falls apart -

- Nobody needs to tell me I'm wrong from disapproving on incest! - Luna reacted strongly.

- I see, moving the goalposts - Lisa reacted with mild hilarity - Fine, I can't argue the many legal and potentially biological consequences that come out of that - but then, I would be inclined to agree on Lana's stance about your hypocrisy -

- Thank you! - Lana interrupted again - Luns, don't you see it? when you were so afraid to confess to Sam because you thought she would reject you, none of us even knew that you were referring to a girl, and none of us said anything about that! -

- Where are you trying to get at? - Luna answered angrily.

- Luna, don't you realize? You're repeating the same mistakes that our grandfathers and mothers made… when they disapproved of homosexuality - Lucy stated with a ominous faint grin - hatred only breeds more hatred, and hatred starts out as fear, when someone is afraid, they can act aggressive, or they can lie and hide, and when someone lies, trust is diluted, and when said trust is gone… a family collapses - She interjected strongly, lowering her head in regret - They couldn't reveal their secret, they had to lie in order for remain together, ergo, a chain of lies was inevitable, but can you blame them? When you're acting exactly like how they feared you would? - She questioned intensely - In another era, let's say, 50 years ago, would you have given up your relationship with Sam that easily?

- Eh, guys, I don't-

- Buddy, they have a point, let them go on - Clyde, surprisingly, interrupted Lincoln, as he himself felt some personal investment to that conversation.

- So we're going there huh? - Luna stood up, angrily - We had to fight for decades to be respected and acknowledged, we are just trying to express our luv, we aren't hurting anyone! how does that have anything to do with this sickening crap!? -

- … -

- … -

- …Do you seriously not see it sis? - Lana actually got some words out of her own disbelief.

- … -

- Wait… oh - Luna started looking back at herself, a realization hitting her head like a brick - I… uh, damn, dudes, I - She then actually turned around, to watch Lincoln's fearful face and Lola's impatient mood.

And guilt ran through her heart.

- I… didn't realize - She started heading over to them, trying to compose her next words - …Bruh, please tell me something - she started talking softly to Lincoln - What do you feel when you're with her? - She said while referring to Lola.

- Uh, well… I… - Lincoln got caught off guard by the question, struggling with the accusatory and expectant look of his sister.

- Please, just be honest, I need to know - Luna tried her hardest to avert her doubtful stare, bringing in a little more confidence for the man to speak.

And so, after staring at her for a moment, Lincoln finally gathered the courage to speak.

- …I feel happy with my place in the world Luns, I feel like the world's luckiest man alive… I feel the need to cuddle with her until the mourning hours, to then be the first guy to see her bright smile as she wakes up; when she's with me, I feel the strength to climb the world's tallest mountain and to clear every obstacle in my way, but I also feel fragile and open… because with her, I know that I can truly be myself, and she'll always have my back, it's confusing, because I know our thing is wrong and people don't approve, but also, everything else feels right - Lincoln answered sincerely, but a little lost at Luna's intentions.

- … I see, just like how me and Sam used to be… - Luna let out in a whisper, only audible to her brother, then turned to Lola - what about you sis? -

- Why would you suddenly care about the opinion of a mentally ill girl? - Lola answered sarcastically with a raised eyebrow.

- I'm trying to believe that's not the case Lola, give me something to work with dude - Luna answered bitterly.

- …fine, I don't like to repeat myself, and I already disclosed my feelings at the beginning of this reunion - Lola answered annoyingly, before recomposing - But if you really need to know, the yes, I feel loved, protected, provided, fulfilled, yada yada - She rolled her eyes - He's everything I've ever wanted in a man since I was a little girl, even down to things that I really shouldn't like, I was certain of what I felt since I was 7, and ever since, I wished I could actually get rid of those feelings, I really did not actually want Lincoln to return my feelings, but well… they make you do crazy things sometimes, and his company just made me feel… whole - She lowered her eyes in admission - Now it's too late, he didn't give up on me, and all that is left for me to do is to protect my man and support him in whatever he wants to do, so yeah, there's the confession from a mentally ill girl - She finished while blowing a huff.

- …ok, thanks Lola… - She then stood up, eyeing the two of them from above with a slight frown - …maybe, Lucy's right, you're not the only ones that fucked over everything - she admitted with regret - …I'll have to think about it - She admitted to herself, before going back to her seat and hiding her head in her legs.

And so, silence reigned again, as every single sibling gained something to think about.

- …Is that enough kids? Did you finally get it all out? - Taking advantage of the sudden peace, the mother finally raised her voice again - Or do you still have something to say, Luan? - She averted her eyes to glare at the girl that during the entire conversation, never made a single noise.

The "mime", unflinching and unmoving, made quick eye contact with Rita, still with a professional pokerface, then, she simply took her phone and started making a call fake out.

After "finishing" the fake call, she the removed one of her mime gloves.

And slapped her mother with it, leavin it at the base of the chair that she stood up from.

She then turned upstairs and ran to the common bathroom.

Some more silence.

- … Don't expect her to come back - Luna said quietly, still hiding in her legs - …It may not look like it, but I'm not the one that was most affected by Pops leaving… When a comedian loses her drive to smile, her career goes the way of the Dodo - The rocker whispered slowly - I can understand that, I myself lost the lyrics of my heart dudes, all my songs were starting to sound like C-minor pieces, the energy was not there, and I never had it in me to sell myself to another soulless corporation, Lulu is dead, and perhaps, Luna was also dead - After a few seconds of dwelling in herself, she mustered the courage to look back up - Being conflicted for so long while seeing your family decay, no matter how loud I could shred my guitar, it the kind of thing that transfers to your passion dudes - She complained with a broken voice.

And Leni reacted, faster than everyone else.

- Luns, it's ok to feel sad, you were always the life and heart of the house, but not just because of your songs - She said softly while placing a comforting hand on her sister's shoulder - Like, we all loved them, but it's mostly because we knew they were coming directly from your heart, and in your heart, there was always like, a lot of love for your family - She mentioned with clarity - Be honest with me, do you actually hate Linky? - The blonde then questioned calmly.

And then Luna took a glance at her brother, who never once changed his comforting smile.

- I… - She hesitated, but then shook her, looking to the floor - I, don't know sis -

- The words that you put in your songs, they always speak from the heart right? - Leni then quirked an eyebrow while increasing the strength of her grasp.

- Yeah, it all comes naturally, and it used to be rocking - Luna admitted.

- And, like, why haven't you written a song about your feelings? - Leni questioned with a warm smile.

- Because… - Luna pondered - I don't know about my feelings anymore dude - She admitted with shame.

- And what's causing that? - Leni pushed harder.

- …because my head and my heart tell me different things dude - She opened up - I know that everything that happened was wrong, and a big part of me wants to just blame Lincoln and Lola for all of this… Yet, at the same time, I just couldn't help to feel bad about it for myself, so I guess just putting the entire blame on them was easier… and it was always weird, that even after all that I… just couldn't actually hate him - Luna finally admitted, before turning to look at a surprised Lincoln.

Luna contorted her face, as her core tried to elicit a brief glimpse of a dainty smirk, among the sea of doubt.

- Now I think I see why… Lincoln, a big part of why this family got hit so hard, was the fact that… we lost you as well, I wanted to side with Pops, I knew he had a point, and I was and still am pretty grossed out by this! But… I, also missed you dude, it was always awesome in the past, we were all proud of you and you inspired me to make a lot of songs, we just thought that you were getting a bit too close to the lil' dudette and wanted to help you, and honestly, watching you spend so much time with her, even at the rare times where I visited the house, it made me feel a lil' angry - She sighed, before spilling the rest of her contained frustration - Because I felt she was taking you away from us bruh -

And Lincoln understood, nodding with a warm smile.

But now, it was Lola the one that looked down in shame.

- Going back to the house after Pops gave you the boot was not easy, better to just hit the bar and pretend that everything was fine with some booze after the concert, back then I could have done something to visit you and get to at least understand some of it, but I just assumed you needed to be shown some tough love by auntie Ruth - Luna continued monologuing with grief - After all, why should I care amirite? -

- Wait, Linky was with auntie Ruth? - Leni interjected, visibly upset for her standards - Why did nobody tell me that? -

- …Because we knew that you would try and bring him back Leni - Luna facepalmed at the little detail that she let go.

- Wait, you guys hid this from Leni!? - Lincoln raised up, also significantly upset.

- Yes… I'm also sorry for that honey - Rita admitted shamefully.

- Lincoln, breathe - Now Lola was the one calming him down, avoiding an outburst.

And Lincoln did, remembering to let go of the past.

- Thanks Sunshine - The albino looked back at his girlfriend and stroke her hand more strongly - Please go on Luna - He then centered his attention on the rebel girl again.

And Luna frowned slightly, before looking down in shame.

- Right, So… when I heard the news that you fucked off to the streets, I just didn't recover from that, and I guess Sam noticed… damn, had It not been for her, chunk, and the rest of the Moon Goats, I would be on the needle right now - She then spoke slowly, mostly to herself - To bad it had to come as a sacrifice for what we had back then - She reflected as a few tears fell from her eyes.

And Leni, while still mildly upset for the "secret", quickly took her chance to give her a warm hug.

Her sister felt the unexpected and undeserved warmth, and with a few seconds of retaliation, decided to explode on her, staining her little green dress, she gave her a few minutes to recompose, as the rest of the family simply watched in silence.

After a while, Luna decided to separate from the comforting hug from the blonde, which Leni then took as an opportunity to look at her and place her arms in her shoulders supportingly.

- It's ok Luns, we all made mistakes, and honestly we should just like, let them go, it's like having an ugly dress, I look at it and then go "ew! I totes should get rid of this", and then I never think about it again - the fashionista commented with unnatural confidence.

And then Luna used her chance to retrieve a booger with her arm while smiling sheepishly at her sister.

- Terrible fashion analogy dude, but I get it, thanks! - She said sincerely, before standing up and walking over to her problematic siblings, taking a deep breath in front of them - …Dudes, I'm sorry for what I said earlier, you're well enough Lola, just got a weird taste - She concluded with a teasing smirk.

- Well I do have some issues, but go on - Lola made an ironic grin, but was overall satisfied by Luna's apology.

- I'm sure you do, but not related to this lil' dudette - Luna said confidently, before turning to her brother - And Lincoln, I still don't know if I can actually forgive you fully, but if you are serious enough about being nice with all of us, then I guess I can let that lil' booger of yours slip by just this once, do we have a deal mate? - The punk girl then presented her tattooed hand.

- For a chance to have our lives back, of course I will - Lincoln said with energy while accepting the handshake.

- And I'll be watching you closely dude, treat our sis well aright? - She said teasingly while winking at her brother, making the albino eat some saliva.

With that, Luna took a deep breath and sat back in her place, now relaxing with ease on her seat.

And now, only one person remained stoic and ignorant, as every resident in the room directed their attention to her.

Lori did not make any reaction, as she continued texting on her phone, and once again, her focus would change from it to the nearest person reaching her hand.

- Lori, what about you? - Leni questioned kindly.

- Why should my opinion matter? you guys won, Lincoln gets to stay by popular demand - She said drily.

As all the stares in the room centered on her, and irked Lori sighed, then finally made a choice and stood up, glaring at her mother.

- As a lawyer, I could tell you literally a million reasons why this is only going to cause more problems, dad was at least aware of them, Lincoln is a child rapist, regardless of the age he had at the time, he was perfectly aware of Lola's mental faculties at the time, he knew, as her older brother, that there was an unbalanced power dynamic, and I bet he knows that there are grounds for his crime to fall under the definition of the state of Michigan as Criminal Sexual Misconduct of the first degree - She said with a serious expression.

Then, she went over to her brother.

- Listen, I literally don't care if you think your love for her is real, I don't care if this entire situation is the result of some stupid story, I don't care if Lola initiated this "relationship", all I care for, is that you had a responsibility as an older brother to protect her from harm, and that included the harm that she could cause to herself, you always had the bigger judgement to call it quits, you always had the bigger strength to stop her if she ever were to become forceful, and you certainly had far better girls out there to go out with instead of fantasying about the body of a little child - Lori then crossed her arms with an authoritative tone - Mom is right about one thing, you were selfish, you didn't actually care about Lola's well being, you only cared about what you wanted to do to her, and that hurt her far more than anything else you could have done, this is why it sickens me that you would come here to talk about true love and family -

She then turned to her sister, who at this point was clenching her fists and making a dent on her own jeans while glaring aggressively at her.

- And Lola, here's a fact for you too, this depression that you suffered for so long, it wasn't caused by us, you kept hitting yourself while also being incredibly distant, you didn't let anyone in to try and actually understand you, and that distancing has a reason, even if you're not fully aware of it - Lori stood straight, unrelenting - That guilt that you suffered, that shame that you have, that constant self-loathing, they're all common symptoms of Child Sexual Abuse, I've had to attend cases like this before. You're not the first child that deluded herself into loving her abuser, but you know what? I'm sure Dr. Lopez, as well as all of your therapists before her said it better than I ever could, you just refuse to listen to professional advice because as always, self-centered Lola Loud doesn't ever listen to anyone, and would rather be a drama queen to make everyone else pay attention to her misery, just like a manipulative histrionic narcissist -

Lori then took another step and retrieved the notebook from the chair where she was sitting, and stood in the middle of the reunion.

- This thing is not only not a valid argument for anything, this is actual evidence of a crime, and if I were you, I would get rid of it - She said before throwing the notebook to the ground.

As the family watched in disbelief, Lori simply took her chance, now unguarded by the annoying robot, and approached the door.

And once again, another voice raised, just high enough to stop her again.

- Lori, why do you hate them? - Lily intercepted, with heavy concern.

- …Lily, this isn't about hatred, I don't expect you to understand, but if you actually love your sister, I can only suggest that you don't support this relationship - Lori slowly turned around and look at her youngest sister with melancholy.

- Why? - Lily insisted.

- Lily, these people are currently working to cover a crime, and they are also literally using you to make it seem ok, I'm leaving because I don't want to involve myself in it, and I'm asking you to reconsider coming with me, Bobby and I will show you what a good family looks like - Lori then approached her little sister again, mustering a kind smile.

- Bobby? Didn't you tell me that you had a fight with him? Why would you want to come back to that? - Lily then questioned while remaining unmoving from her seat.

- Ugh, Look Lil, couples argue often - Lori replied impatiently - …He had some valid concerns over me being here, that's all, but I already addressed that part, you'll see that being with us is much better than staying here - She insisted while regaining her calm demeanor.

- What reasons? - Lily questioned, grasping Lil' Bun Bun with a lot of strength, as if holding on to it.

- It literally doesn't matter, come on Lily - Lori then tried to reach her sister's hand.

…Only for her offer to be slapped away again.

- I already told you, I'm staying with Linky! - Lily exclaimed temperamentally, making a pout.

- …I see - Lori gave up - Then I guess there's nothing else to say -

- Of course there isn't, with someone as dishonest as you, we can't really argue - Lucy interrupted again standing up.

- Come again? - Lori replied defensively, seeing that Lucy approached her to be face to face.

- Your legal speech was quite articulated Lori, but it is ultimately meaningless without an actual direction to it - Lucy spat on her eldest sister, getting even closer to her face - You can say everything you want to scare off our brother, you can say everything you want to dismiss our sister's feelings, you can call us biased, you can call our mother a crime supporter all you want, but I always questioned, what was your true purpose behind that? - The poet questioned while carefully analyzing Lori's face, which remained confused.

- What else is there to say? this relationship is deplorable, and if someone else found out, Lincoln could very well be facing up to life imprisonment! - Lori objected - I just want what is best for my family, Lincoln needs to leave, Lola needs help, and you need to literally shut up! - She raised her voice - This is NOT love, this is a perversion, and you are a sick supporter of it! - She accused while placing a digit in her sister's chest - And not just you, all of you fell for it! -

The lawyer then directed herself to each of the seats, starting with her former roommate.

- Leni, please wake up for once, I need you to think! This guy was abusive with you, what makes you think he won't do the same to Lola! -

- … -

- Luna, don't let them gaslight you, this wasn't your fault at all, just because their words are pretty, doesn't mean that Lincoln is not a pervert, she was a literal child, and she's still not even old enough to drink, this is, NOT, ok! -

- … -

- …You're not even my mother anymore, I'm ashamed of you, of all the things you did to separate our family further, I trusted that Lola was fine here, but now? I think Lily is in danger! -

- … -

- Lana, you're also a victim of abuse, there's not true love in the actions of that pervert either, and now you're carrying a child that you're not ready for, what if he runs away for a "pack of cigarettes"? You'll be left completely alone with a giant burden, and you're not even a legal adult yet! -

- … -

- …I would pretend to be surprised, but I wouldn't have expected less from a creep like you, I don't care if you had anything to do with Lana being pregnant, but I always had a sick feeling in my stomach with you, and now I know why, you will never be family, Clyde, Lincoln's words got you easily because you were always prematurely disposed to see this as acceptable! -

- … -

- And you, I can't even… just, actually earn some empathy for a change Lisa, literally watch the situation in front of you, this doesn't have a logical solution, there's no "better" path to take, the only thing you did with your experiment, was isolate Lola further while making her believe that she couldn't fall in love again, you have some research into the matter right? Well whatever confirmation bias that you planted into her stopped her from actually giving herself a chance to date other boys, if we're all in this situation, it's because of you! -

- … -

- Lily, for the last time, don't let yourself get dragged into this, trust me, remember what I did to save our family back then? Remember how we were all together for our wedding, remember all the fun we had these last weeks?, we can be like that again, our family is growing and happy, you will-

*SMACK*

And then, the first act of true violence happened, leaving the entire house in a daze, as Lori barely reacted to it, her face made a sudden turn, a red-hot mark of a palm in her check that she went to rub to ease the pain.

The only sound being emitted being the huffing breaths of an enraged Lily, as she shook her hand to avoid the numbness following the mighty slap that she just gave her sister.

- Your family is not MY family! - Lily once again stood up, and headed to where her brother was sitting - Go away Lori, I HATE you! You are no longer family to ME! - She screamed while pulling her brother's arm and hugging it - You don't get to talk about family after doing nothing after Linky left, you don't get to talk about family after abandoning us for so many years, you don't get to talk about family after lying so much about how Bobby actually treated you! - She said energetically while beginning to sob - You did so much for us before, and then that yucky wedding happened, and suddenly you were no longer with us! - She started sobbing harder, clinging to Lincoln further.

- Wait, what did Bobby do Lil? - Now, it was Lincoln, befuddled, trying to piece things in his head, as he gently lifted his sobbing sister to see her directly.

But Lily did not answer, as she simply remained sobbing on Lincoln's chest.

Instead…

- Well, aren't you going to answer, Lori? - Lucy inquired next from her spot - Show us that true example of "family love", that which is "unconditional" right? - She commented further.

- T-that's none of your business! - Lori complained while rubbing her cheek - He's right about Lincoln, he's not good news! -

- I see… so that's why you fear Lincoln - Lucy responded calmly - …Now it all makes sense -

- What are y'all talking about? - Lana said, slightly lost in the conversion.

- After so much arguing in the cellphone, we should have a pretty good idea by now, Lana - Lucy made the comment in a flash, not even paying attention to her pregnant sister, then, she approached Lori once again - Tell us the real reason Lori, why don't you want Lincoln to stay? -

- I have literally nothing to explain, you'd have to be blind to not see the perversion of this madness - Lori stood her ground, crossing her arms authoritatively - Now I suggest you to shut up Lucy, nothing you say will change my mind.

- … Fine, if you really are that convinced on your words, then I'll show you something - Lucy lowered her head, but not in a sight of defeat, as she thought of her next words - Family bonds are restricted to a platonic alliance, it can't even be more than that, any actions committed by a parent or an older sibling will inevitably fall under uneven power dynamics, and self-control is to be practiced in case of insubordination - She rambled, as Lori raised an eyebrow, not quite getting her point.

After her comment, however, Lucy began approaching Lincoln, holding her trembling hands and looking down on him, making the brother distinguish her eyes under her bangs, a rare sight for him, and everyone else in the house.

Lily, as if reading her sister's mind, simply retired herself from her brother's lap and returned to her seat, winking at her goth sister.

- …However, that could only be the case, in the clear knowledge of someone that by legal definition, is, incapable of providing consent, right? - Lucy directed her words at Lori, but never once was she taking her eyes off of Lincoln - …Because, this perversion that you seem to speak about, takes more than just one person to enact, so what would happen if it was done between consenting adults with a more… reasonable, age gap? - She then knelt to be face to face with her brother - …Is there any difference between Lola, and me? -

The room felt silent once again, as everyone watched the scene in front of them with eyes wide open and a few jaws hitting the floor, more prominently from Lori and Lola.

Lincoln would have also made a reaction, but he was also incapable of moving a muscle, as the contact of his dark sister's warm lips upon his own held him in a lock, his eyes were wide open, and his mouth was paralyzed, but Lucy insisted upon deepening the passionate kiss that took the room by storm.

Only after a few seconds, did the goth abandon the warmth that the clash of their breaths had generated, a string of saliva briefly appearing as she resumed her position, standing in front of her brother, who was completely speechless.

The silence didn't last that long though.

- W-w-w-what the heck did you just do Lucy!? - Lola had not been able to fully process the situation.

- I was making a point Lola, don't worry, he's yours, my feelings have passed, I already told you that - Lucy clarified with a smile, as she ran her tongue through her lips - But I also needed to close a chapter of my life for good -

She then turned again to Lincoln, still overwhelmed with sensory overload.

- I'm sorry brother, this was my darkest secret from time immemorial, and my drive to watch over you, I don't intent on pursuing a relationship with you, I happily pass that burden to Lola, because I know that she's the only one strong enough to carry this curse - Lucy admitted sadly.

Then, she turned to Lori once again, who just watched with disgust and shock running through her whole body.

- But now, I release my own demons to give them a final rest, I submit myself to the forbidden temptation that I long forgot , if only to give you a final message from hell, Lori - She then stood against her sister, without the intention of holding back - I'm no longer bound by fear and sloth, I will no longer be a prisoner of despair, and I will be the one to teach you about true love and devotion - She then made a sly grin, putting her blonde sister in alert - Lola is an inspiration to me, my poems grew around her, because her love and devotion to our brother surpassed even my most pessimistic omens, I tried to give It many names before, delusion, obsession, escapism, but even through all that doubt and regret, I did not need to become an adult to figure something like this out, for just watching the life in her eyes whenever she thought about him made me shake in my ground, overpowering even the most intimate desires that I could have ever harbored for him - She then approached the face of her eldest sister even closer, allowing her to also have a rare glimpse of her eyes under the bangs - But feeling that love, and acting upon it are different things, and If there's a thing that you're right about this, Lori, is that for the later to happen, one has to be selfish -

She then turned again to the couple, never taking that wicked smile off of her.

- And I hope that you understand, that you'll have to continue being "selfish", selfish enough to be numb and resilient to those attacks, selfish enough to ignore the chaos around you in order to find forgiveness of the self, and selfish enough to fight for your happiness, regardless of whatever may happen from this point and on - Then, she centered her attention on Lola - Because I believe in your love, Lola, and I understand that it's the key to your happiness, regardless of what Lori, or any therapist can say - She then approached her defensive sister and placed another warm peck in her forehead, making Lola blush slightly and avoid eye contact.

She turned to Lori again.

- And it would take an extremely dishonest person to not see it, someone that is bound by denial and fear - Her smile then faded, replaced with a snark - Someone who is not acting like the Lori Loud that we know and love, the woman that would always give advice to our love lives, who would always tease us in regards to our romantics pursuits, someone who wasn't bound by the fear of saying "inappropriate things" before, someone who at one point, understood what It meant to be in a family -

Leni then rose from her spot, not wanting to be left behind.

- Umm, Lori, you were the one that allowed Linky to hang out with Lola, and you were the one that defended them when dad didn't want him around, why are you being so mean to him now? -

Luna, surprisingly went next.

- …Yeah dude, I mean, I know this is gross, but… the lil' dudette seems pretty certain that she wants to be with him, and threatening our bruh with jail time is not cool either, no matter how angry we are with him -

Lana, now officially angry, stood up as well.

- And neither is saying that I'm not ready to receive my daughter, would you like it if I called any of your children unplanned or something like that? - She the took a breather to calm down - And Luz is not the only one that found him cute by the way, but hey, stick to your legal nonsense, I'm sure there hasn't ever been a couple of siblings in love! -

Clyde then took the energy of the room to give a piece of his mind as well.

- And Lori, for your information, I was very aware that what I felt for you back then was wrong and that it wasn't going to happen, that's why I respected your relationship with Bobby, I thankfully got a lot of professional help that allowed me to realize that I didn't actually felt love for you, I just had an idealization that transformed things into an unhealthy obsession. Which is exactly why I know that what Lincoln and Lola feel for each other is not a matter that a therapist can fix, I would even dare call it, love -

Subsequently, Lisa interjected, using the momentum of the room.

- If I'm allowed to inspect further into the subject from a psychological perspective, I would also like to reaffirm Clyde's beliefs with an addendum of my own, as a researcher of psychology in the form of a hobby and unofficial therapist of the house, I took heavy inspiration in freudian principles of attraction, given that family members are supposed to choose a mate based on how many characteristics are subconsciously shared with a close relative, with little girls usually associating those traits to that of their father -

- Ew, gross - Lola couldn't avoid a gag reflex at the idea.

- …or their brother - Lisa finished while readjusting her glasses following Lola's interruption, making the ex-pageant goer squirm - However, in order to avoid inbreeding, a few mechanism have been studied that desensitizes siblings from mating with each other, among famous examples like the Westermarck effect, therefore, by all matters of logic, Lola should not be attracted to Lincoln… but she is, and for many years, the only explanation that I could give had to be some conspicuous effect of sexual imprinting, which usually happen upon sexual coercion by an older sibling unit, I was prepared to act on this assumptions and castrate our male sibling if necessary - Lisa then showcased retaliation at continuing - …But then I decided to test my hypothesis with Lucy, and her conclusion was sound, Lola started this affair, and pushed every conceivable event towards starting a consanguinamorous relationship with our male sibling, that, made me determine the course of my invention… towards her - The scientist admitted with a barely perceptible voice - …My judgement is not final either, I understand that my untimely intervention may have very well complicated this situation further by not allowing our sister to live a normal teenager phase, but from what little I've learned about love… I have to also side with my other siblings here and attest for their relationship as being genuine, despite how unlikely it may be -

And finally, Rita, done with listening, confronted her eldest daughter.

- Honey, it's ok, I know that your husband has solid views against what Lincoln did, and I know there's tension in your life right now because of it. I'm not trying to oppose his views, this is about our family, and we solve this like one, nobody will tell him that Lincoln was here -

- Y-you don't know anything Rita! - Lori retaliated, finally done with the entire family siding against her.

- Honey, I know why you're here, I know that you still care about Lily and want to protect her, but Lincoln finally being here is not what made you angry - Rita then took a deep breath before continuing - I can see that there's a lot of stress for the state of your marriage sweetie, you don't need to hide that pain from me, nobody can predict what happens in the future, you could also have a bad break up with Bobby, or you could eventually solve your differences and find a middle ground, it's all up in the air, and that is a part of what makes relationships so diverse - The mother then stood up, and went to caress her daughter's cheek - But I can also see when there's things that you want to say, but actually can't due to fear, I know that you're afraid of rejection honey, of losing custody of your children and losing your home, and I would never want that to happen to any of my daughters - Rita said warmly, as she began enveloping her thinking daughter in a hug - But going against your own family is not going to make things better, and I think there's nobody better to give you a little bit of that perspective than your own brother, right sweetie? - From under the hug, Rita directed her view towards Lincoln, winking and nudging him to approach the scene.

And with a quick gulp of anxiety, Lincoln understood his mother's point. He hesitantly stood up and approached the scene, unsure of what to say.

- Um, uh, Lori, I… - Lincoln nervously scratched the back of his head while shrugging his arms.

Rita released her daughter from her grasp and stood still while crossing her arms, watching the scene with commendable serenity.

Now free from her forced hug, Lori remained there, with her back facing her brother, looking to the ground.

- …I know what it feels like, to focus all of your efforts and to dedicate yourself exclusively to the person you love, and I know what it feels like, to have that person you love reject you, or argue with you about things that you don't think you can possibly reconcile - Lincoln, in spite of his insecurity, spoke empathically - I know what it does to you, you turn harsh, you turn angry, and you don't know how to stop it - Lincoln then took his chance to look back at his lover - You don't think you can fix it, you turn into someone you don't recognize, and you, deep down, hate what you've become, but any semblance of stability that you obtained would be lost if you gave that up - Lincoln took a deep breath and turned again to watch his sister's back - …I'm saying that, because now I know, that relationships can be pretty messy, far from idealistic, even when everything goes right at first - The albino clenched his fists, gathering courage for what he was going to say next - I know why the Santiago's don't like me, and honestly, I understand, I also understand that your stability is important, and that me being here can change that - Now, Lincoln was facing everyone - In all honesty, I didn't expect many of you to actually vote for me, I was fully prepared to leave -

- Lincoln, what are you saying? - Lola caught on to something, something somber about Lincoln's attitude.

Something that she did not like.

- Lols, I'm sorry, but I lied to you, I was not just prepared for losing, I was certain that we would lose, Lori is right, everything she has said so far is the truth - Lincoln admitted sadly.

- So… you were giving up on me? - Lola commented, with a half-broken heart at the implications of her lover.

- I love you, I really do - Lincoln confessed as a few tears began falling down - …and that's why I was ready to let you go Lols - He said while closing his eyes and holding other tears - But I guess my real operation failed, I fully expected Lisa to vote against me, I knew that would turn the counter, I was ready to call it quits as soon as Leni voted against me… but I guess I need to stop doubting my family - Lincoln admitted sadly, as he turned back to Lori - Lori, you're right, it was selfish to come back here expecting you to accept this relationship, so if I stay here, it's really just because of the others, but you don't need to accept that, you can continue living happily with Bobby, I promise no more issues with them, my return will remain a secret, right guys? - Lincoln turned to the others, and just a few nods were necessary to prove his point.

He then took a bold step and placed a hand on her shoulder.

- And please don't worry about Lily, I will never lay my hand on her - He said softly, but wasn't done speaking - And also, I won't ever lay a hand on Lola again until she's actually ready - He finished seriously, before receding back to his place and getting his hand dragged by an angry girlfriend, who kept a glare on him and would have literally exploded if there were no other people around.

- We're going to have a serious talk after this Lincoln Loud - She said angrily, before turning to a still paralyzed Lori - And you! Don't you think I'm on the same boat as him, nothing of what you said is true, use whatever "Power dynamics" legal definition you want, but this "vulnerable" and "mentally ill" girl knew what she wanted from the very beginning, call me selfish all you want, I won't deny that, but if we're in this situation in the first place, it's because of me, I chose this, and I will never allow therapists that know nothing about me, or the little ramblings of a woman that stopped standing up for herself years ago to change the way I think ever again -

And then, Lori's own patience detonated.

- UGH, FINE, THINK WHATEVER YOU WANT, ALL OF YOU, I LITERALLY HAD ENOUGH OF THIS NONSENSE - Lori threw her hands and stomped the story book that lied on the floor - You win Lincoln, I'll take you advice, I'm going back to my real family, I don't care if you think I'm doing this out of "fear" or whatever, but if none of you want to take responsibility of this literal felony then I won't be the one to remind you every time! -

After her outburst, Lori turned her back on everyone and headed her way to the main door.

- Happy birthday, by the way girls, hope your "boyfriends" can satisfy you all night! - She threw another sarcastic comment with spite - By the way, I'm not the only one here that will need "convincing" to let go of it! -

- mmm, now that I think about it, Luan has been gone for too long - Clyde recalled what she meant and pondered on his own.

- Yeah, good luck with her guys - Lori mentioned with heavy irony, as she began twisting the handle to exit the house - And I hope you're happy you disgusting CHILD RAPIST! I'm Ou-

She couldn't even finish, as soon after the door was open and Lori turned to look at the outside, she found herself standing in front of two armed men with a blue uniform.

- Sorry ma'am, is this 1216 Frankling Avenue? - The officer stated.

- Uh, yeah, what do you need? - Lori stood defensively, and the people around her stood up to the unexpected visit.

But then, just as sudden, the woman was shoved to the side as the police raided the home, targeting the white haired man and tackling him to the ground.

- Lincoln Albert Loud, this is the state police of Michigan - Said one of the officers while presenting the police warrant card - you're under arrest for the charge of Criminal Sexual Misconduct, you have a right to remain silent, everything you say can be used against you! - The two armed men stated coarsely as they proceeded to handcuff the detained man - you have a right to an attorney -

- W-W-WHAT THE FUCK ARE YOU DOING! - Lola, who had also been shoved away in the middle of the violent confrontation, screamed loudly, trying to forcefully remove the men from Lincoln's body - LET HIM GO YOU STUPID NEANDERTHALS - She insisted.

But just as easily, she was showed back and forced to fall to the ground.

- Please do not interfere with the law ma'am, we do not wish to detain you too - One of the officers warned the girl while lifting the man, now hand-cuffed, and bringing him outside.

As the officers approached the entrance door, Rita, still overcome with shock, reacted barely.

- W-wait, officers, what happened, we haven't called law reinforcement! - She could barely articulate, but still, intervened promptly.

- We received a report with allegations of criminal sexual misconduct, and we heard a commotion in this house about alleged sexual assault on a minor, we were under our right to intervene - The officers responded plainly, as Lincoln was already being dragged outside and forced into the vehicle - If you wish to discuss this further, then wait until the booking is over within the next 24 hours, you may be offered limited contact with him at the station -

Lola then ran outside to approach the scene.

- Hey! Please let him go, he didn't do anything - She panicked and cried as the two officers ignored her pleas, getting the man in the car.

- Ma'am, this is the second warning, do not interfere with the law - The cops weren't having it, as they barricaded her attempts to approach Lincoln.

- Then get me in there too! - Lola pleaded, kneeling to the officer.

- Ma-am, how old are you? - The officer responded seriously.

- How the heck does that matter? - Lola answered agitatedly.

- Um, she's underage officer - Lori then approached the scene and cut to the chase, knowing the pointlessness of lying to the authorities.

- Very well, who are you ma'am? - The officer continued the question.

- I'm… a criminal defense attorney, h-here's my identification - Lori recomposed and looked seriously at the officer while giving them her ID.

- Very well, are you with him? - The man invited.

And Lori thought about it, as she looked at the hand-cuffed man that she once called her brother, just a few seconds before he was taken away.

And she got to witness a smile of… satisfaction!?

- …I, want to appeal for my… client's rights to be present for the interrogation and to remind him of his rights - Lori accepted, drowned in confusion.

- I'm coming too - Rita added while following behind her eldest daughter.

- No, Rita, you're not qualified for this, you need to stay here and restrain Lola - Lori didn't even turn back, as she blocked her mother from approaching the car.

- FORGET IT, I DON'T TRUST YOU! - Lola turned angrily to her sister, ready to tackle her.

But Rita held a grip on her with what little strength she could muster to control the enraged teenager, who simply looked at her and nodded in serious approval.

A few struggles here and there, the car was arranged with the two men on the pilot and co-pilot spots, and Lincoln and Lori on the back seats, due to the polarized windows, seeing from the inside was not a possibility, Lola was ultimately restrained by Rita and Lana, who came soon after to see the commotion and had to forcefully stop her sister from getting in the way of the car, risking being run over, not soon after, the rest of the family followed and dragged her back into the house.

While attending for a hysterical Lola, a few steps were heard coming downstairs.

- Well, well, well, looks like we actually have a show going on! - A former clown, hidden by black and white, came down, cheery and happy, apparently breaking her silence act.

- Dude, not now, this is no laughing matter! - Luna objected her sister's tone deaf interruption, as everyone congregated to control Lola.

- Oh, but it is a really good laughing matter Luns~ - The comedian insisted, not once taking away her smile.

- …what? - Lucy said next, completely flabbergasted by her weird sister's hilarity.

- During all of these years, I honestly just couldn't get it, you were all talking about this huge joke, but I just couldn't get the punchline! - Luan said ominously, making some of the sisters pay attention to her - But now I finally get it, no wonder I wasn't being funny anymore, me, Luan, not getting a joke? I honestly should just "pie" it up and go away, get it? Hahaha - She admitted while cackling disrespectfully, making some of the sisters glare daggers at her.

- Man, that was so hilarious, so you were telling me that Lincoln and Lola would just fuck around and NOT find out? No wonder that joke didn't make any sense, I needed to complete it! Hahahaha - Luan insisted with tone-deaf hilarity.

And nobody was faster to notice the morbid implications than her own mother.

- Luan, what did you do? - She questioned alarmingly.

- Oh, come on mom, I just placed the cherry on top of the stinky pie, the moral of the story, I mean, every story has to have an ending right? Get it? Just like yours and dads? Hahahahaha - Luan's laughter began to turn maniacal, as the other sisters began catching up to the real meaning of her words.

Including Lola.

- YOU! - Lola managed to temporarily escape Lana's hold, approaching her sister with violent intention - You fucking BITCH, what the fuck did you do!? - She managed to almost get to her face.

But once again, Lana and Luna came in to hold her down.

- Wait Lols! - Lana struggled with the sheer pressure of holding her twin in one place - Don't do this! - She pleaded one last time.

But Luan would never take that shit-eating grin from her face.

- Aw, what's wrong sis, didn't eat enough of your brocon-li tonight? Get it? Hahahahahaha - She joked while approaching a seething red Lola defiantly - Come on, didn't you want this family reunion? Or maybe you wanted to "reunite" how they do it in Alabama? Hahahahaha! - She was now face to face with her enraged sister, making Lana and Luna seriously consider releasing her - Oh, by the way, happy birthday sis, I brought you a birthday cake, I incest you give it a taste, get it? hahahahahaha - Luan continued cackling maliciously, as her sister below her kept losing strength, looking down in defeat.

- Uh hey, don't get sad - Luan made a fake pout, putting even Lana in overdrive - it's just the punchline of the joke, life goes on, and there's always a place for comedy, specially considering the complete circus that is this entire family! - Luan then stood up and opened her arms to point to everyone.

- Luan, why did you do this? - Rita, still beyond the point of broken, contested her daughter's logic.

- Why did I do it? - Luan looked at her mother, and her grin was still there, but weaker - …mmm, why did I do it… - She now entered a thinking disposition - I think, I already answered that mom! -

- Luan, please, be serious, this isn't a joke, you just accused Lincoln of a crime that can get him in jail, now is NOT the time for jokes - Done with her attitude, Rita stood up and faced her directly, for the first time in the day, she was angry -

- Ohhh, ok, got it, you want me to be serious? No jokes? - Luan kept playing a fool, putting a finger in her chin as if thinking - mmm… OK! I'll be serious, but in exchange -

A transformation occurred, as her once insufferable grin turn into the biggest frown imaginable, if there was a time in which Luan stopped playing games, it was NOW.

- You will also stop being the biggest clown to ever live, Rita - Luan said seriously, glaring intensely at her mother - You want to talk about family? fine, then, WHERE IS DAD!? - She confronted while slightly pushing her mother backwards.

- … -

- Ohhh, that's right, you clowns actually thought that we could have our dear family back right? Without dad? Ohhh sorry, then I guess I was still not getting the joke, although I can't really blame myself for that one, it's just NOT FUNNY! - Luan then lashed at the other sisters.

By now, Lola was on the floor, kneeling and looking down while hugging herself, Lana and Luna were watching with a deep frown, and Clyde, Lily, Lisa, Lucy and Leni were watching from the ground, sitting in the spot where they were previously holding Lola.

- Luan, I'll say this once again, there's no turning back from what you just did today, you made a case that had to be kept a secret public knowledge, Lincoln could face a life sentence for this, there's NO justification for having done this young lady! - Rita stood her ground, confronting her daughter again.

- Forget it mom, there's NO way this nutcase can actually convict Lincoln, there's no proof for any of this - Lana also spoke from her side, touching Lola's shoulder comfortingly.

- Ohhh, are you so sure sis? - Luan then turned to face Lana, hiding her hands behind her back - Well, good thing that someone got to record this entire conversation - The ex-comedian presented a little microphone that she had conveniently hidden in a mime glove.

The one that she left on the couch…

- And don't think you can just destroy this, the files are already in the cloud, I should honestly congratulate Lori for not only agreeing with me, but also presenting the case in such elegant fashion, cops were more than satisfied with what they managed to hear! - She stated cockily - And that's not all! Thanks to a certain pal of mine here, I also obtained a lot of juicy witness confessions! - She then pointed her inquisitive hand.

…To Clyde.

- …So that's why you asked me for "information" back then - The ebony man stood up and crossed his arms seriously - Now it all makes sense, crap! Why didn't I see through you before - The man lowered his view and clenched his fists.

- Wait, Clyde, you were also in this? - Lana questioned with damming disappointment, to which Clyde couldn't even provide eye contact.

- …It was a few years ago Lana, during Lincoln's birthday… the day our friendship ended for real - Clyde recalled somberly - At the time, I thought it was just another curious sister asking me for what I knew about Lincoln's thing for Lola - Clyde looked for a moment to Lucy, as he formed his ideas - …But of course, I should have know, the sister most well known for keeping information on the private lives of her siblings for "prank material" wasn't just going to ask for information casually - Clyde clenched his fists again - Still… I didn't expect that someone could be so disgusting to actually destroy her brother's life, not me, nor Stella, or even Lynn Jr. would have ever thought of doing that! - Clyde the raised her voice, officially angry at the ex-prankster.

- L-luan, sis, why!? - Lily exclaimed next, pouring liquid emotion from her fragile heart as she began squeezing the life of the little bunny toy that had belonged to Lincoln.

- Aw Lily, hey don't cry, you also did a splendid job here, keeping that little bunny plush all warm for me, you should count yourself lucky, now there's all the evidence I need to put that pedophile in jail! - Luan celebrated, before going over to where her sister was sitting and stealing the bunny from her.

- Hey! - Lily objected, but Luan wasn't reacting.

- If only he had actually heard my advice… - And for once in the entire night, Luan's expression was neither fake happiness or rage, as a few snippets of melancholy passed her filters, looking longingly at the little plushie - … he just needed to remember his roots - After saying that, Luan simply opened the plushie's zipper, getting access to it's interior lining - But of course, he blew it again - She said angrily.

And then, she extracted another recorder, which for some reason, was a little cracked, not that it mattered, for she also extracted a tape from it, which was undisturbed.

Lola saw that action, and her blood froze, as a sheer wave of terror ran through her very core.

- N-N-NO!, g-give that back! - Lola then knelt to her sister and arranged her hands In pleading fashion - P-please, I'll do anything, I'll never see him again, I'll fucking kill myself if that's what you want, but please, d-don't show that! - Lola begged with eyes wide open and running mascara everywhere, placing her hands at the base of her feet.

- Woah, woah, Lols, what's wrong, what's in there!? - Lana saw the obscene display of terror produced by her sister, a sight that eerily reminded her of that time where… had she wanted, she could have exposed her to the entire family.

But somehow, this was even worse, Lola completely gave up her dignity to the sight of that tape, and she knew, that something was wrong.

As Lana came to support Lola in her arms again, allowing Luan to take a step back, Lola tried her hardest to recompose.

And she told the truth.

- I-I remember that stupid bunny… the day where, we… had sex - Lola commented while supporting herself to her twin's weight - it was on top of the bed, all the time, as w-we were d-d-doing it -

And now Lana understood exactly why Lola was afraid.

- Dude, please, let's calm down ok? Our bruh did bad things, but this is pushing it too far - Luna then stood up and approached her sister, who was still looking down to Lola's complete meltdown with a pokerface.

Luan simply avoided her former roommate, and headed to the door.

- Should have probably thought about that before letting our dad loose then - Luan said emotionless, as she prepared to exit - Oh, by the way Lola - She took one last look at the collapsed sister on the floor - Thanks for yet another great piece of evidence, wouldn't have done it without your help either - The unstable girl mentioned casually while mustering another wicked smirk.

She was holding the notebook.

- See you in court, "family" -

---

Author's Notes: Surprise! I know I know, this one took a long time to make, so I want to apologize for the uncertainty, rest assured i'm still going strong on this project and will not give up until it's over! To reward your patience, here's the longest chapter so far, rest assured, a LOT of stuff happened here that will make the remaining chapters a bit more complex, in fact, I originally thought about splitting it, but I think it just flows better like this and will hopefully avoid any unnecessary cliffhangers, you guys deserve to see this confrontation uncut and uncensored!

PhantomLordHelix: Welcome and thanks for leaving a review! Lori and Lily, despite the implied time spent together coping with trauma, couldn't have taken more opposite sides in this conflict, but I hope I was able to encapsulate Lori's disappointment and disbelief at Lily being so adamant on wanting Lincoln and Lola together, there's a lot of details that happened offscreen that will be addressed later on, so stay tuned!