A/N: I ended up splitting the chapter up because It is a lot to read. and I'm actually still not finished with it.

Chapter 4:production (part 1)

Jade soaked in the scene as she settled into her seat for the inaugural table read of Just Tori. The room was brimming with excitement and nervous energy, and she took a moment to observe her fellow castmates.

Rob, the charming nerd, sat nearby, his enthusiasm palpable as he eagerly awaited the script reading. Jade exchanged a knowing glance with her best friend, Cat, who exuded a serious demeanor, her eyes fixed on the script in front of her.

Tori, fidgety with anticipation, caught Jade's attention. Her nervousness was endearing, and Jade offered a reassuring smile. Then there was Ben, the executive producer, exuding a paternal aura as he draped an arm around Tori's shoulder. The gesture felt protective more than anything else in that moment, and Jade carried on with the excitement of the day.

Amidst the introductions, the conversation flowed. "I'm Jade, playing Liz," she said, meeting the eyes of each cast member as they introduced themselves and their characters. "Nice to meet you all," she added, a genuine warmth in her tone.

Robbie, playing Matthew, cracked a joke, earning a laugh from a few cast members. Cat, ever focused, made a mental note of her character's nuances. Tori, visibly nervous, attempted to ease her tension with a shy smile, her fingers drumming on the table.

Then, there was Will, the music director, quietly present on the periphery of Jade's awareness. She gave him a passing glance, acknowledging his role, but her attention was quickly drawn back to the camaraderie building among the cast. They were embarking on a journey, and amidst the nerves and excitement, there was an unspoken sense of unity—a collective anticipation for the story they were about to tell.

Reflecting on that moment, Jade cherished the beginnings of their creative endeavor, where conversations mingled with nerves, laughter, and the promise of a shared journey that would shape Just Tori.

Jade found herself at the head of the table, a position that used to belong to Ben, the memory of their first table read flooding back like a wave of nostalgia. The room, once filled with eager and wide-eyed teenagers, was now occupied by adults who had weathered the storms of time.

The door creaked open, and there she was—Vic, with that trademark smirk that spoke volumes. "Look at you, still running the show," Jade quipped, a playful glint in her eyes.

Vic chuckled, "Someone's got to keep the chaos in check."

The two locked eyes, and a silent acknowledgment passed between them—a recognition of the journey they had taken together. They hugged, a congratulatory embrace for the distance they had covered since that first meeting.

The room quickly filled with the familiar faces of the original cast, each bringing a unique story and a wealth of experiences. Laughter and camaraderie echoed, a comforting melody that had stood the test of time. The seven core members of the original cast found their places at the end of the table, a living testament to the enduring bonds formed on the set of Just Tori.

As new faces, a mix of seasoned actors and fresh talent, filed in, the atmosphere buzzed with excitement and anticipation. Among them was Carly, a returning presence from the past. Jade greeted each arrival with genuine warmth, acknowledging the significance of this moment.

"Look at us," Jade exclaimed with a chuckle, raising her cup in a mock toast. "The band's back together, and we've got some new recruits. Welcome, everyone, to the Just Tori family table read."

Vic grinned, taking a seat beside Jade. "Feels like a high school reunion, but with better paychecks."

The room erupted in laughter as the cast settled in, sharing stories and catching up. The mix of old and new faces created a vibrant tapestry, weaving together the past and the present.

Jade welcomed everyone with a genuine warmth, acknowledging the significance of the moment.

"This isn't just a table read; it's a reunion, a celebration of what we built together," she declared, raising her glass in a toast.

As the cast settled in, the room buzzed with the energy of creativity and friendship. The journey they were about to embark on held the promise of something special—a continuation of a legacy, a nod to the past, and a hopeful glance toward the future. The pilot was in the works, and the hope lingered in the room that the entire show would be greenlit by Viking, taking its place on a streaming service beyond the confines of Kidtopia's umbrella.

Jade raised her cup again, this time in a more sincere gesture. "Here's to the pilot, and fingers crossed for the whole damn show. Let's make some magic, people."

Scene 1: Tori's Morning

INT. VIC'S HOUSE - MORNING

The sun peeks through half-open blinds, casting a warm glow in Vic's edgy living room. Guitars lean against walls adorned with rockstar memorabilia.

TORI (weaving through boxes): Babe?

Vic stumbles out of her room, glancing around the hallway cluttered with half-opened boxes. The faint scent of fresh paint lingers in the air.

CUT TO:

Vic, disheveled, enters the kitchen searching for breakfast. She swings open the fridge, hopeful for something edible. Instead, she finds a neatly folded piece of paper. She picks it up, unfolding the note.

Vic (reading aloud): "Dear Vic, I signed up to be with a star, not a has-been. Lose my number. XOXO - Your Ex-Girlfriend."

Vic blinks, her expression a mix of shock and amusement.

Vic (mutters to herself): Guess I wasn't the rockstar she was looking for. One less box to unpack, I suppose.

INT. VIC'S HOUSE - KITCHEN - CONTINUOUS

Daniela, more mature and composed, enters the kitchen, eyeing the chaotic scene with a raised eyebrow. She approaches Vic.

Daniela: (sighs) Vic, you can't bring all of this stuff to my house.

Vic: (defensive) Well, where else am I supposed to put it? I'm practically homeless now.

Daniela: (crossing her arms) Vic, I agreed to help you out, but I didn't sign up for my house to turn into a storage unit.

Vic pouts, realizing she may have pushed it too far.

Vic: (mumbling) It's not like I have my own place anymore.

Daniela: (softening) Look, I get it. But I bought this house fair and square, and it's not becoming Tori's Storage Kingdom.

Vic rolls her eyes, knowing her sister means business.

Daniela: (noticing something) And what's this?

Daniela spots something among Vic's belongings that catches her eye.

Vic: (defensively) That's mine!

Daniela: (smirking) Well, bring this, and maybe a few essentials. And don't forget, school starts in an hour.

Vic rushes past Daniela, muttering about her sister's strict rules. She heads upstairs to get dressed, leaving Trina to assess the remnants of Tori's rockstar life scattered across the kitchen.

(Intro Same theme music Changing Name to Just Vic instead.)

Vic sat in her director's chair, a script in one hand and a cup of coffee in the other. The buzzing energy of the set surrounded her, and the sounds of music rehearsals drifted through the air. She was going over the shot list with her line producer, a meticulous process that felt more challenging than she anticipated.

The music, from Cat's sweet melodies to Andre's rhythmic beats, created a vibrant backdrop to the work on set. Tori couldn't help but tap her foot to the rhythm as she went through each line of the script, mentally envisioning the scenes she would soon bring to life.

The set for Vic's house, a crucial but fleeting location in the episode, was under the spotlight. It would grace the screen for a mere two minutes, a brief appearance that masked the behind-the-scenes complexity of filmmaking. Tori knew that, in reality, the set would be repurposed for future scenes. The childhood home set would undergo a transformation, with different backgrounds and enlarged windows.

As Vic continued her meticulous preparations, she couldn't shake the sense of anticipation for the upcoming scenes. The script came alive in her mind, and she mentally choreographed each shot, envisioning the movement of actors, the play of light, and the emotions that would be captured on film.

The set held a certain nostalgia for vic. It was a symbol of her character's past, a past that was intimately entwined with her own experiences. The new sets, including the teachers' lounge and Tori's bedroom, offered fresh canvases for storytelling. The details of the decorations, a subtle touch, would add depth and authenticity to the narrative.

As the day unfolded on set, Vic felt a mix of excitement and challenge. Directing herself presented its own set of hurdles, but with the collaborative spirit of the cast and crew, she knew they were crafting something special. And so, amidst the hum of activity and the creative energy of the set, Tori delved into the world of Just Vic, ready to bring her vision to life.

Scene 2: Tori at Hollywood Arts

Int: Teacher's Lounge (The Couch)- Day

Vic: Well, my last album didn't exactly set the charts on fire. Turns out, people weren't as excited about my experimental jazz fusion as I thought. So, to pay back the advance I got for that masterpiece, I had to make a few adjustments to my lifestyle.

: Back to the old stomping grounds, I guess. Daniela bought the house from My parents, and well, I need to cut costs. Plus, Hollywood Arts is where it all began for me, so why not return to my roots?

: Can be humble, you know, like riding a rollercoaster blindfolded.

: I think, Mattie was as surprised as I was to see me here. He's convinced I'm some fallen star seeking refuge. Well Duh.

: This whole thing is like a curveball wrapped in glitter and confetti. But hey, you never know, this might just be the plot twist I never knew I needed.

: Here's to surviving high school round two.

INT. TEACHER'S LOUNGE - DAY

The teacher's lounge is filled with the low hum of conversation and laughter. MATTIE, is animatedly sharing stories with a RANDOM TEACHER.

MATTIE: You know, I knew Vic back when she was just Tori. She had a thing for me.

VIC, passing by, overhears and folds her arms across her chest.

VIC: Oh really? What was that 'thing'? Disgust?

MATTIE: (chuckles nervously) No, no. More like... admiration, maybe?

VIC: Admiration? Mattie, I was more likely to have a thing for evil Liz than you.

Mattie laughs, trying to save face.

MATTIE: Liz hated you, you know.

VIC: (smirking) Well, that just proves how gay I am, doesn't it?

The banter continues, with Vic playfully teasing Mattie about his supposed allure. As the conversation shifts, Mattie becomes more honest.

MATTIE: I just want these teachers to think I'm cool.

VIC: (raising an eyebrow) You're still playing high school games, Mattie? Seriously?

MATTIE: (sighs) Feels like I never left. But hey, I'm glad you chose to come teach music here.

VIC: It's temporary.

Mattie nods knowingly.

MATTIE: That's what I said too.

INT. TEACHER'S LOUNGE (THE COUCH) - DAY

An interview setup with MATTIE, who is seated comfortably on the couch.

MATTIE: (leaning back, thinking) Honestly, I had no idea she was gay. Did you know?

she was always focused on her music and her performances. I guess I never really thought about her personal life much.

Vic was a bit mysterious when it came to that stuff. She kept her cards close to her chest.

FADE OUT

Rob paced his dressing room, the script pages in hand, committing his lines to memory. The knock on the door interrupted his rehearsal, and a smile lit up his face as his girlfriend, Cat, entered. He welcomed her with a kiss, and she slyly locked the door behind her.

"Do you remember what we used to do in this dressing room during breaks?" Cat teased, a mischievous glint in her eyes. Rob blushed but played along, sitting on the couch as Cat, much smaller than him, climbed onto his lap.

As they shared a tender moment, Rob asked, "How are you feeling about the show? Excited?"

Cat grinned, her eyes reflecting genuine happiness. "I love how Jade has matured Ari. She doesn't have to be all childlike anymore but still keeps that ditzy charm. It's like she's socially clueless but a business whiz. Must be that time with Jeanette that sharpened her up before she blew up."

"I noticed that too. It's awesome," Rob replied, genuinely pleased for Jade's character development.

Cat leaned in, sharing her concerns. "I just hope the network doesn't get too handsy with their vision, you know? We don't need unnecessary stress."

"Yeah, let's hope for the best," Rob agreed, understanding the industry's unpredictability.

Cat shifted the mood, her playful demeanor returning. "Now, I want to do what we used to do."

Rob chuckled, pointing out, "It's the first day, you know."

Cat grinned mischievously. "And I'm your girlfriend."

Rob didn't need much convincing as they embraced the moment, finding comfort and joy in each other's company on this pivotal day.

Cut to: Scene 3: Leon and Ari's Request

INT. HOLLYWOOD ARTS - MR. LANG'S OFFICE - MORNING

Leon and Ari stand nervously before the desk of MR. LANG, the eccentric principal of Hollywood Arts.

MR. LANG (sipping his coconut) Well, well, well. What brings our esteemed alumni back to our humble abode?

ARI (grinning) We need your help, Mr. Lang.

MR. LANG (chuckling) I suspected as much. What's the crisis this time?

LEON We're shooting a music video, and we need dancers. Short ones. Kids.

MR. LANG (raising an eyebrow) Ah, casting troubles? The height requirements, I presume?

ARI (nodding eagerly) Exactly! We thought an assembly announcement would be perfect to find our little talents.

MR. LANG (laughing) Oh, the audacity! You expect me to call an assembly without a plan?

LEON (with a hopeful grin) Yes, sir. That's exactly it.

MR. LANG (leaning back) Well, well, well. You two haven't lost your persuasive touch, have you?

ARI (cheerfully) So, can we?

Mr. Lang chuckles and nods, impressed by their audacious request.

MR. LANG Fine, I'll announce your casting call. But next time, try not to surprise me with your spontaneity.

INT. TEACHER'S LOUNGE (THE COUCH) - DAY

ARI, sitting comfortably on the couch, faces the interviewer with a playful smile. You have no idea how hard it is to constantly crane your neck, always looking up at people. My neck hurts! Kids are the perfect , let's be real, kids bring that extra dose of cuteness. It's a win-win.

Cat left Rob's dressing room adjusting her clothes. She was heading to the recording booth to lay down a new track with Vic for the show. They hadn't collaborated since the early days of Just Tori. Excitement bubbled within her as she entered the studio.

Dapping up Andre, who had composed the music for their new venture, Cat settled in with a notepad to start penning some lyrics. The room was alive with creativity, a familiar and welcome sensation.

Tori walked in with a smile, greeting them both. "Hey, long time no see in the studio together," Cat remarked, sharing a quick glance with Vic.

"Yeah, feels like a Just Tori throwback," Tori replied, adjusting her headphones. "What are we working on today?"

Andre played a snippet of the music, and Cat began brainstorming lyrics. "Thinking something about friendship, having each other's backs," she suggested.

Vic nodded, "I like that. Something uplifting, you know? Reflecting on our journey together."

As the music played on loop, they engaged in a back-and-forth of ideas. Cat's verse took shape, expressing her past jealousy and eventual pride in Vic's success. "And when you made it to the top, couldn't help but be proud," she sang softly to herself.

Vic, listening intently, shared her thoughts on the chorus. "How about something about holding each other up, no matter what? Even when one of us stumbles, we lift each other back up."

Cat grinned, inspired by the suggestion. "Yeah, like a constant cycle of support. I love it."

The trio continued to refine the lyrics, the recording booth transforming into a space where their voices and ideas harmonized. The conversation flowed effortlessly, a testament to the synergy they'd developed over the years.

In that room, surrounded by the familiar hum of the studio, Cat, Vic, and Andre weren't just creating a song. They were weaving a musical narrative of friendship, resilience, and shared growth.

(Verse 1 - Cat) In the beginning, I admit, I was a little green, Watching you climb to the top, oh, it felt so mean. Jealousy whispered, but I pushed it aside, 'Cause seeing you shine, filled me with pride.

(Chorus - Vic) Hand in hand, we face the storm, Through every fall, we transform. In this dance of life, we sway, Lifting each other, come what may.

(Verse 2 - Cat) I used to stumble in the shadows of your light, But then I learned, together, we'd take flight. Your success became a beacon so bright, Guiding me through the darkest night.

(Chorus - Vic) Hand in hand, we face the storm, Through every fall, we transform. In this dance of life, we sway, Lifting each other, come what may.

(Bridge) Through highs and lows, we found our way, Building a bond that will never sway. In the rhythm of friendship, we find, A melody that stands the test of time.

(Verse 3 - Cat) Now when you're up, I celebrate your flight, And when you stumble, I'm there to make it right. No more shadows, just the sun's warm embrace, In this journey of ours, bound by grace.

(Chorus - Vic) Hand in hand, we face the storm, Through every fall, we transform. In this dance of life, we sway, Lifting each other, come what may.

(Outro) So here's to us, in this song we weave, A tale of friendship that will never leave. In the music of life, our voices play, Lifting each other, come what may. (song written by AI cause I am no songwriter)

Cut to: Scene 4: The assembly

INT. TEACHER'S LOUNGE - DAY

Vic and Mattie exchange glances as the announcement echoes through the hallway. Tori, intrigued, questions their involvement.

TORI Was this planned?

Vic smirks at Mattie, and the two exit the lounge just as the excited chatter of students fills the air. The children file into the auditorium.

INT. AUDITORIUM - DAY

Mr. Lang strides onto the stage, the anticipation palpable among the students.

MR. LANG (cheerful) Hollywood Arts Lower School, we have a fantastic announcement!

He reveals permission slips, generating excitement among the students.

MR. LANG For those dreaming of a real industry audition, grab a permission slip.

A collective gasp sweeps through the room. Ari and Leon make their entrance, and the students erupt in cheers.

MR. LANG And here are our talented alumni, Ari and Leon!

The students go wild, their enthusiasm echoing in the auditorium.

INT. TEACHER'S LOUNGE (THE COUCH) - DAY

LEON (smiling) I never expected these little kids to know who I was. My audience is typically older, sexier, and, well, mostly female. It's a different vibe, but hey, they seem excited, so why not? Who knows, maybe I'll gain some younger fans. Can't complain about that.

Andre found solace in the company of Cris and Devon, his companions on set. The three of them created a supportive circle, a buffer against microaggressions and unfamiliar territory. It was a conscious choice for Andre, a way to navigate the predominantly white environment he often found himself in.

While he cherished the friendships he had formed with the cast of Just Tori, there were moments when the dynamics became overwhelming. The men around the girls, especially Vic, Cat, and Jade, could be relentless and toxic. Despite efforts to shield them, it sometimes felt like they were playing a dangerous game.

Now, in this new venture, Andre sought the familiarity of his community. Working on black movies and shows during his time away had reinforced the value of collaboration with people who shared his background. It brought a different energy, a comfort he couldn't easily find elsewhere.

As he juggled calls from musicians and prepared for rehearsals, Andre knew his time on set would be brief. The first day, Wednesday, was the focal point—the day of filming. He hoped for a drama-free experience, a smooth ride through the nostalgia-laden world of Just Tori.

Scene 5: Leon and Ari's Assembly

INT. HOLLYWOOD ARTS - AUDITORIUM - DAY

ARI (Into the mic) Hey, Hollywood Arts! It's so great to be back where it all began.

LEON We're actually here on a mission. We're working on a school-based music video project, and we need some talented dancers to join us.

Cue cheers from the students, eager to be part of the exciting project.

As Ari and Leon exit the stage, they're greeted in the wings by Mattie, now a teacher, and Vic. Ari, another former classmate, approaches awkwardly.

MATTIE (Grinning) Ari, Leon! It's been ages.

ARI (Smiling) Mattie, our old classmate! And Vic!

They share warm hugs, catching up on the time that has passed since their Hollywood Arts days.

VIC (Excited) Ari, Leon, it's like a blast from the past! What brings you back here?

LEON (Grinning) We're scouting for some talented dancers for our music video project. Thought, where better to find them than Hollywood Arts?

ARI (Playfully) And we get to catch up with some familiar faces while we're at it.

Vic notices the tension between her and Ari, but Leon seems oblivious to it. Ari's eyes wander over to Mattie, and she's instantly smitten.

ARI (Blushing) Mattie, you're looking even better than I remember.

MATTIE (Chuckles) Flattery will get you everywhere, Ari.

Vic feels a bit awkward, realizing the lingering crush Ari has on Mattie.

VIC (Light-heartedly) Well, it's great you guys are back. Hollywood Arts always welcomes its alumni.

As the four of them share a moment in the wings, Leon, Vic, and Mattie seem comfortable, while Ari's crush on Mattie remains palpable.

ARI (Smiling) Guess some things never change.

FADE OUT.

INT. INTERVIEW ROOM - DAY

Ari sits comfortably in front of the camera, ready to share her thoughts.

ARI You know, everyone always assumed I was this heartbreaker, moving through guys like it was nothing. But truth be told, none of them were Mattie. He was the crush of my life, and it took a while for people to realize that.

She chuckles, a warm nostalgia in her eyes.

ARI (CONT'D) I mean, can you blame me? Look at him now; he grew up nice. Sometimes life surprises you, and the crush you had as a teenager becomes the man you admire as an adult.

Ari leans back, a playful smile on her face.

ARI (CONT'D) So, to everyone who thought I was just playing the field, let me set the record straight—Mattie was always the exception.

In the intimate confines of Jade's dressing room, Will's arms encircle her as he whispers into the soft skin of her neck.

"Hanna has her. Do you remember back in the day?" he murmurs.

Jade steps out of the embrace, a sly glint in her eyes. "Uh, yeah, we're running things a bit differently now."

Attempting to pull her back in, Will's efforts are interrupted as the door swings open with a suddenness that catches everyone off guard.

"Hey Jade, I was—Oops," Cat chimes in, halting at the unexpected scene.

Rob, appearing at the door, adds a sheepish grin. "Cat, I said Will was..."

Jade smirks, brushing off the interruption with a wave of her hand. "Whatever, nothing was happening anyway."

Curiosity piqued, Cat inquires about Izzy's whereabouts.

"Probably at craft services," Will nonchalantly replies.

Jade decides to leave the room, Cat trailing behind her. Meanwhile, Tori emerges from makeup, sporting an edgy vibe with tattooed sleeves and skinny jeans.

"Fuck. Thank God this ain't a kid show anymore, Vega," Jade remarks, eyeing Tori with a smirk.

Tori returns the smirk, and Cat notices the tattoo on Tori, resembling Liz's.

"She's got Liz's tattoo," Cat points out.

Jade confirms, "Yeah, that was on purpose."

Jade catches sight of Will trailing behind them, but she pays him no mind. Instead, she focuses on her daughter.

"My baby!" Jade exclaims as she lifts Izzy into her arms, showering her with affection.

Turning to Hanna, Jade inquires about Izzy's behavior.

"She's been very good today," Hanna assures.

Leading Hanna through the day on set, Jade intentionally distances herself from Will. Tori and Cat exchange glances, silently concurring on their shared sentiments towards the man they both loathe.

"She's a total boss," Tori remarks, appreciating Jade's handling of the situation.

With determination, Tori strides towards the set, leaving Cat to smirk at Will before heading off to find Rob.