A/N: I had to break it up into acts. act three next chapter and the end of the screen pay for the first episode. I mean I am no comedy writer. so I might need a joke doctor LOL. anyway. This story is more about behind the scenes... I want to explain. The parts from the past that I place on the top of the chapter, are from videos I find. Mostly taken by Dan. Such as this one. I add bits and pieces to make it cohesive, but really they are just video clips playing like memories. I found this chapter piece in Danwarp... way back when he didn't have any real videos of the kids. He didn't really start posting those til he started developing Victorious. that's why the I Carly kids look so uncomfortable at the beginning. there were a total of 5 or 6 iCarly videos before I found this one.
Chapter 5:production (Part 2)
Tori, Rob, and Jade found themselves goofing around in the school room, enjoying some light-hearted banter. Meanwhile, Ben, the ever-present creator, strolled in with his recording equipment, catching the trio in their playful moment.
Jade giggled at a quip from Tori, and Ben, always ready to seize a moment, smirked at the leading lady. "Victoria Vega!"
"Ben Sneider!" Tori responded, a practiced smile on her face. She had been in the industry long enough to recognize the game he played, and she was ready to play her cards.
Ben, with the camera now pointed at Tori, urged her to share something silly. "What have you been working on?"
Tori glanced at Robbie with a mischievous glint in her eye. "Bring me your knee!" she instructed him.
Robbie, ever the good sport, extended his leg over Tori's lap. She turned to the camera, adopting a playful tone. "Hey, guys, it's Victoria Vega, and me and Robbie..."
Ben shifted the camera to Robbie, who gave a casual greeting. "Hey."
Turning back to Tori, she announced, "Are going to give you a little taste of the 'Just Tori' theme song." With a theatrical throat-clearing, Tori began to squeeze at Rob's knee, making the skin flaps resemble animated lips.
In a comically squeaky voice, she started to sing, "You don't have to be afraid to put your dreams in action. You're never gonna fade; you'd be the main attraction."
Laughter erupted from the trio in the room as Tori and Robbie continued, "Not a fantasy, just remember me when I make it shiiiiine."
Jade, thoroughly entertained, joined in on the laughter. "Whoa, that's tired...do try it again," she teased between giggles.
"Really mature," Tori quipped into the camera, with Robbie sitting up, still caught in laughter. The room echoed with their shared joy, creating a light atmosphere that momentarily dispelled the usual tension that lingered in the air.
As the laughter subsided, Tori shot a playful glare at Jade. "You're just jealous you didn't come up with it first," she teased, a grin playing on her lips.
Jade, never one to back down from a friendly banter, shot back, "Please, I'm the queen of originality. You two are just recycling old gags."
Robbie, caught in the crossfire of their banter, chuckled and attempted to mediate, "Come on, guys, we're all in this together, right?"
Jade smirked, "High School Musical reference, Rob? Really stepping up your game."
Robbie shrugged, "Hey, it works."
Just then, Beck strolled into the room, a bemused expression on his face as he observed the aftermath of their mini-performance. "What did I miss?"
Jade recounted the story comically as only she could. "I have never seen a knee that could be lips like that!" Tori commented. The room erupted in laughter once again as Tori, Jade, and Robbie embraced the moment, creating memories on the set of "Just Tori."
In the midst of their teen play, a crew member entered the room, informing them it was time for the next scene. The trio shared one last round of laughter, promising to continue their antics later, and dispersed to their respective places on set.
As Tori took her position for the next scene, she couldn't help but smile. These moments of spontaneity, laughter, and shared creativity were what made the journey on "Just Tori" not just a job but a joyful adventure.
Cut to: Scene 6: Tori's Music Classroom
INT. VIC'S MUSIC CLASSROOM - DAY
The room is alive with the harmony of young voices as Tori directs the choir. Among the students, Bradley Jogia, a shy 11-year-old, attempts to fade into the background.
VIC (cheerfully) Alright, everyone, let's bring those notes together! Bradley, you're doing great!
Bradley tries to blend in, but Tori catches sight of him.
VIC (CONT'D) (leaning in) Hey, Bradley, don't think you can escape my eagle eyes!
Bradley looks up, wide-eyed.
VIC (CONT'D) (smiling) You know, I once had a friend with the last name Jogia. Nice guy, but he couldn't carry a tune to save his life.
The class chuckles, and Bradley blushes.
BRADLEY (stuttering) Uh, th-that's my last name, Miss Vega.
Tori squints at him, trying to recall.
VIC (smirking) Really? Any relation?
BRADLEY (nodding) Yeah, he's my dad.
Tori bursts into laughter.
VIC (laughing) Oh, wow! Bradley. Looks like musical talent skipped a generation, You're amazing. don't worry, we'll work on your confidence!
The class joins in the laughter as Tori encourages Bradley comparing him with his famous dad, Avan Jogia.
Int: Teachers lounge (the Couch)- Day
Interview with Vic
Vic: I thought I knew all the gossip, but apparently, I missed that memo.
She laughs,
Vic(CONTD): (smiling) Honestly, I was shocked, but it's the kind of twist that keeps things interesting. Avan as a dad? Who would've thought?
Beck led Masie and Ketan through the familiar set of Just Vic, pointing out various structures that triggered memories of the past.
"Like the last set didn't have anything down this hallway," Beck reminisced, "but that's how we were supposed to go to Mr. Lang's room."
Ketan chuckled, "That's where Beck would disappear to sometimes."
"It was a different time," Beck said with a smile.
Masie, elated to be on the set of one of their favorite shows, couldn't help but absorb the nostalgia. Vic, their favorite character, stood on the Music Room set, engrossed in her script. Beck guided Masie towards her.
"Hey, Vic," Beck called out.
Vic looked up, and her eyes widened. "Oh my god, you're Masie! I'm a huge fan!"
Masie laughed, "Me too, of you, I mean."
Flattered, Vic responded, "Wow, I'm flattered."
"You were my favorite character. I shipped Elitoria so bad," Masie admitted.
Vic teased, "So you could be with Avan, huh? I love it."
With a grin, Masie said, "Yo, it was obvious. Like most of the Elitoria fans demand a resolution."
Vic laughed, "Beck, they're funny."
Vic waved at Beck's older brother, and then she moved to hug Ketan. "Hey, bro."
Ketan smiled, "Hey, baby girl. How have you been living?"
As they caught up, old friends reconnecting, Vic couldn't believe it was the first time meeting Beck's partner, Masie. Yet, in that moment, she felt the warmth of their connection and looked forward to more hangouts in the future.
Subplot: Scene 8: Vic and Mattie at Lunch
(Vic and Mattie are on lunch duty, overseeing the chaotic cafeteria. Students bustle around as they chat.)
MATTIE: You ever think this is karma for all the trouble you caused back then?
VIC: Karma? Please, I'm an innocent angel now. A saint, even.
(Bradley, sitting nearby, chuckles nervously, not wanting to be involved.)
MATTIE: Innocent, huh? Tell that to the principal about the time—
(Their banter is cut short by a commotion. Bradley inadvertently gets into a scuffle with a school bully.)
VIC: (rising from her seat) Here we go again.
(Tori rushes over, displaying impressive physical comedy as she intervenes, separating the brawlers with flair. She deftly guides Bradley away from the cafeteria, turning the incident into a hilarious scene.)
CUT TO: Interview on the Teachers' Lounge Couch
(Tori sits comfortably, recounting the lunchtime drama.)
VIC: I swear, I'm too old for this. Ducking punches in the cafeteria? Not in the job description.
(She laughs, shaking her head.)
VIC: But seriously, we can't have kids throwing fists. My job is to steer them away from that nonsense and teach 'em better ways to sort things out.
Trina is in for the day, Rehearsal, run through taping. The studio buzzed with anticipation as the cast of "Just Tori" gathered for another day of fine-tuning their scenes. Trina, fully immersed in her lines, was interrupted by the arrival of her longtime friend, Jade.
Jade, with her signature wit, couldn't contain her excitement. "I can't even believe we're here. However many times we've talked about this."
Trina looked up from her script, a warm smile spreading across her face. "I know. I was just hoping for a movie to close it out. But this is so much better. I love how iSam got to expand their story. And now we get to too."
Jade nodded in agreement, her eyes scanning the rehearsal space. "I want to get rid of all the problematic themes that were there before. At least now, all the jokes are appropriate."
Trina waved at Izzy, who was on her mother's hip. "Come here, beautiful girl." The little one happily leaped over to Trina, who enveloped her in a tight embrace. "My god, I miss this age. They grow up so fast."
Jade, ever perceptive, teased her friend. "Oh, I already see your brain turning. You ready for the third one?"
Trina laughed, "We've been ready for a while. You know I always wanted a ton."
Jade playfully cautioned, "Well, pace yourself... sheesh."
Their banter was interrupted as Tori entered, calling rehearsals to begin. "My youngest is 6; I think that's good enough space," Trina remarked.
"Alright, mommies! Send your babies with the nanny; time to get to work," Vic declared, taking her position.
Trina and Jade exchanged a smirk, and Trina handed Izzy to Hanna. The two seasoned professionals shifted effortlessly from mom mode to work mode, ready to bring the world of "Just Tori" to life once again. The camaraderie between the cast members, both on and off the set, added a special touch to the reboot, turning it into a reunion of old friends and creating new memories.
Act 3: Tori meets the Dragon
INT. HOLLYWOOD ARTS LOWER SCHOOL - NURSE'S OFFICE - DAY
The nurse's office is a small room with a cot and medical supplies. Tori enters, leading a shy and slightly bruised Bradley.
VIC: (smiling) Alright, Bradley, let's get you patched up.
Tori helps Bradley onto the cot as the school nurse, Nurse Patterson, prepares some ice packs.
NURSE PATTERSON: What happened, Bradley?
BRADLEY: (mumbling) Just a little scuffle.
As Tori is about to respond, the door creaks open, revealing a sharply dressed woman – Liz, Bradley's mom.
LIZ: (sarcastic) Well, well, well. If it isn't Hollywood's fallen star turned Middle school teacher.
Tori's smile fades as she recognizes Liz.
VIC: (strained) Liz.
LIZ: (mocking) Oh, don't tell me you're still hung up on that whole 'fall from grace' thing. How the mighty have fallen.
Tori tries to keep her composure as Liz looks around the nurse's office with a raised eyebrow.
LIZ: (looking at Bradley) And what's this? My son in a fight? What, did he challenge someone to a singing duel?
VIC: (defensive) Liz, this is a school. These are kids. They have their own challenges.
LIZ: (laughs) Challenges? Please. These kids couldn't hold a note if their lives depended on it. I bet teaching here is a real step up for you.
Bradley, growing visibly uncomfortable, interrupts.
BRADLEY: Mom, stop it. It's not like that.
Liz turns her attention to Bradley.
LIZ: (abruptly changing tone) What happened to your face, sweetheart?
BRADLEY: (mumbling) Got into a fight.
LIZ: (raising an eyebrow) Well, did you win?
Tori, caught off guard by the unexpected question, looks at Bradley.
VIC: (smirking) Liz, maybe it's time you left.
Liz chuckles and heads for the door.
LIZ: (as she exits) Good luck with your singing duels, Tori. Maybe one day you'll climb back to where you belong.
The door closes behind Liz, leaving Tori and Bradley in an awkward silence
Vic: (sighs) Let's get that ice on your face, Bradley.
INT. TEACHER'S LOUNGE (THE COUCH) - DAY
Liz, with a mix of frustration and amusement, sits on the couch,Liz scoffs, leaning back and crossing her arms defensively.
LIZ: Oh, my delightful encounter with Hollywood Arts' shining star, Victoria Justice? That was a trip down memory lane.
Liz narrows her eyes, as if reliving the annoyance.
LIZ: (sarcastic) Why did I leave without Bradley? Well, let me tell you a little secret. It begins with Victoria bleeping Justice.
Liz lets out an exasperated sigh, as if debating how much to reveal.
LIZ: (defensive) Look, that's personal, okay? I came here to pick up my kid, not spill my guts about my personal life.
Liz shoots a sharp look at the camera, her guard rising.
LIZ: (guarded) History? Sure, we have history. Who doesn't? But I'm not about to spill the details for your entertainment.
She looks away, as if contemplating whether to reveal more. she chuckles, a bitter undertone in her laughter.
LIZ: (cryptic) Frustration? You could say that. But I'm not here to dissect my feelings about Victoria Justice. Some things are better left unsaid.
She leans back on the couch, a mix of defiance and vulnerability in her eyes.
LIZ: (firmly) I'm not telling you why. It's personal, and it's staying that way.
The scene fades, leaving Liz's untold feelings for Victoria Justice lingering in the air.
In the dimly lit hallway of Hollywood Arts, a silent confrontation unfolded between Vic and Will, two key figures in Jade's life. The air was thick with unspoken tension, and the atmosphere crackled with the weight of their shared history.
Will, with a stern expression, positioned himself in a way that exuded authority. His eyes bore into Vic's, attempting to convey a message of dominance. "You seem to forget your place, Vic. Jade is my wife, and you're just a passing storm."
Vic, usually unyielding, met Will's gaze with a mixture of defiance and amusement. "Your possessiveness won't change anything, Will. Jade makes her own choices, and I'm not here to play by your rules."
Will's demeanor turned icy as he continued his attempts at intimidation. "You think Jade is immune to my influence? She's been with me for years, and she knows where her loyalty should lie."
Vic, unfazed, let out a low chuckle. "Loyalty, Will? This isn't about loyalty. This is about Jade being true to herself, something you've always struggled to understand."
Will leaned in, narrowing the distance between them. "You can't erase our history, Vic. Jade knows who she belongs to."
Vic's eyes gleamed with a spark of rebellion. "Your possessive games won't work anymore, Will. Jade deserves to be with someone who respects her, not someone who tries to control her."
With that, Vic turned on her heel, walking away from the confrontation. Her confident stride echoed in the corridor, leaving Will standing there, grappling with the reality that Jade was no longer a captive audience to his manipulative tactics. As Vic disappeared around the corner, the silence lingered, punctuated only by the distant sounds of the bustling Hollywood Arts.
Jade walked up to Will with a smile, and he reciprocated, oblivious to the internal turmoil brewing within her. "What crawled up her ass?" he asked, smiling back at his wife as he wrapped a possessive arm around her, steering her toward their child and the sitter. Jade responded casually, "Nothing, just the usual drama. You know how it goes."
As Will engaged in a sweet conversation with Jade, Tori caught Jade's eye from across the room. Tori was engaged in playful banter with a random extra on set, and her infectious laughter filled the air. Jade observed the exchange, a mixture of amusement and longing evident in her features.
Cut to: Vic's Empty House
INT. VIC'S HOUSE - LIVING ROOM - DAY
Vic stands in the middle of her big, empty house, looking around at the echoes of memories. She takes a deep breath, contemplating her decision.
VIC: (whispering to herself) It's time for a change.
CUT TO:
EXT. VIC'S HOUSE - DAY
Movers are busy loading boxes into a truck parked outside. Vic hands over the keys to a REALTOR standing nearby.
VIC: (smiling) Take good care of it.
REALTOR: (nods) We'll find the right buyer for this beautiful place.
The realtor exits stage left as Vic watches the movers work.
CUT TO:
INT. VIC'S HOUSE - EMPTY ROOM - LATER
Vic and Leon, her trusted friend and confidant, stand in the now-empty living room. The echoes are more pronounced, and the space feels different.
VIC: (sighs) It's strange seeing it like this.
LEON: (smiling) Change can be good. So, what's next?
VIC: (pondering) I need to figure out how to get back in the game. Liz was right; I've fallen far.
LEON: (smiling) We just need a strategy, something that'll make you relevant again.
VIC: (nods) Any ideas?
LEON: (grinning) How about a good old-fashioned romance? People love that stuff. Find a girl, get married, it'll get the clicks rolling in.
VIC: (raises an eyebrow) Marriage for publicity?
LEON: (teasing) Hey, it worked for others. Besides, it's just a suggestion.
They share a laugh, but Vic's mind is already spinning with possibilities.
FADE OUT.
INT. TEACHER'S LOUNGE - DAY
Vic sits comfortably on the lounge, a hint of amusement in her eyes as she discusses Leon's advice.
VIC:(smiling) Ah, Leon and his grand ideas. He's always full of surprises. Funny thing is, I did have a serious girlfriend, emphasis on "had."
VIC: *CONTD* (chuckling) I woke up this morning to find a "Dear Vic" on a Post-it stuck to my fridge. Turns out my serious girlfriend wasn't so serious about us.
VIC: *CONTD* (nodding) I know, right? I guess it's a trend. Who knew Post-its could be so versatile?
VIC: *CONTD* (laughing) So, Leon's idea might be more relevant than he thought. Now, finding a girl might not just be about reviving my career but also mending my broken heart.
The interview ends with a mix of laughter and a touch of wistfulness in Vic's eyes.
FADE OUT.
The auditorium buzzed with excitement as the former Hollywood Arts students now stars Ari, Leon, and Mattie, prepared for their scene. Vic, donning her director's hat, observed the lively atmosphere with a mix of nostalgia and enthusiasm.
The cameras rolled, capturing the charismatic exchange between Ari, Leon, and Mattie. As they exited the stage to the cheers of eager students, Vic approached them in the wings, ready to guide the next part of the scene.
"Cut!" Vic called out, signaling a pause in the action. "That was great, everyone! Now, let's take it from Ari's entrance again."
The crew reset the scene, and Ari positioned at the microphone, ready to make her grand entrance once more. The atmosphere remained light, with smiles and banter exchanged among the cast.
"Action!" Vic commanded, and Ari, with a playful grin, delivered her lines into the mic. "Hey, Hollywood Arts! It's so great to be back where it all began."
The energy flowed smoothly until Rob, portraying Mattie, missed a beat in his response. "Mattie, our old classmate! And Vic!" Ari continued, but Rob hesitated, realizing he had mixed up his lines.
"Cut!" Vic announced, maintaining her composure. "Rob, let's reset that. Take a breath, and we'll pick it up from 'Mattie, our old classmate.'"
Rob grinned, acknowledging his mistake. The crew readied themselves for another take, the camaraderie on set evident as they worked through the minor hiccup.
"Action!" Vic called once more, and the scene unfolded with renewed energy. The playful banter resumed, and this time, Rob nailed his lines flawlessly.
As the cameras continued to roll, capturing the charm of the Hollywood Arts reunion, Vic reveled in the collaborative spirit that brought the scene to life. The occasional blooper only added to the authenticity of the moment.
Cut back to Main Story: Mattie's Reaction
INT. HOLLYWOOD ARTS - AUDITORIUM - DAY
Ari and Leon, seated at a table with audition materials, watch as a line of kids showcase their dance moves.
ARI
(whispering)
Hey, Leon, check out the moves on that one.
LEON
(nodding)
Yeah, they've got potential.
Ari, however, seems distracted, texting feverishly and blushing.
LEON
(grinning)
Who's got you blushing like that?
ARI
(startled)
Huh? Oh, no one.
LEON
(sly smile)
Come on, spill it. Is it a secret admirer?
Ari tries to hide her phone, but Leon snatches it playfully.
LEON
(teasing)
Let's see who's got our fierce Ari all hot and bothered.
Ari protests, but Leon starts scrolling through the messages.
LEON
(raising an eyebrow)
Well, well. Seems someone likes it a little dirty.
Ari snatches her phone back, blushing even more.
ARI
(trying to sound casual)
It's nothing. Just a friend being silly.
LEON
(smirking)
A friend, huh? Don't worry; your secret's safe with me.
Ari rolls her eyes, trying to focus on the auditions, but Leon can't resist a few more jabs.
LEON
(teasing)
Maybe I should add some spice to our rehearsals, get you all hot and bothered.
ARI
(laughing)
In your dreams, Leon.
As the auditions continue, the playful banter between Ari and Leon adds a lighthearted touch to the casting process.
INT. HOLLYWOOD ARTS - CLASSROOM - DAY
Mattie is in the middle of teaching a group of children about expressing emotions through acting. As he passionately discusses the topic, his phone vibrates in his pocket. Intrigued, he decides to sneak a quick look.
MATTIE (whispering to himself) What could be so urgent?
He pulls out his phone, and as he reads the text, his eyes widen in surprise. The message clearly catches him off guard, and in his shock, he fumbles with the phone. It slips from his grasp, and he tries to catch it in midair, only to miss and watch it tumble to the ground.
The children, witnessing the unexpected spectacle, burst into laughter. Mattie, realizing the situation he's in, grins sheepishly and picks up his fallen phone.
MATTIE (recovering) Well, um, that was an unexpected twist in our emotional journey
INT. TEACHER'S LOUNGE (THE COUCH) - DAY
Mattie sits uncomfortably on the lounge couch, a mischievous grin on his face.
MATTIE (smirking) She said she wanted to do naughty things to me.
FADE Out
The sun began its descent, casting a warm glow over the neighborhood as the main cast gathered at Vic's house. Laughter and conversation filled the air, blending with the anticipation hanging over them like a shroud.
Inside, the cozy living room bustled with familiar faces. Vic had invited everyone over to watch the finished product together, a sort of pre-celebration before the show's big moment. Tori, Cat, Beck, Jade, and others settled onto the comfortable furniture, awaiting the screening.
Among the chatter and excitement, Alan and Trina finally arrived, announcing their presence with their usual flair. Trina's fashionably late arrival drew playful teasing from Tori.
"You're late again, Trina! Anxiety attack, huh?" Tori joked, nudging her sister with a grin.
Trina rolled her eyes, flashing a knowing smile. "Anxiety has nothing to do with it. You try wrangling these kids and getting out of the house on time. It's like herding cats!"
Tori chuckled, understanding Trina's predicament all too well. The lively energy of Trina's kids added an extra layer of joy to the gathering. They darted around the room, sharing their excitement, unaware of the tension lurking within the adults.
As the evening progressed and the anticipation mounted, they settled in front of the screen. The show's first episode flashed to life, illuminating the room with vibrant scenes, eliciting gasps, chuckles, and occasional outbursts of laughter.
Throughout the screening, emotions swirled in the air—a mix of pride, nostalgia, and eagerness for what lay ahead. They basked in the glow of the moment, a tight-knit group bonded by their shared experiences at Hollywood Arts.
Even amidst the joyous atmosphere, an undercurrent of anticipation lingered. Approval from the network would solidify their dreams, and the green light for the full series would mark the beginning of a new chapter in their lives
As the episode ended, the room erupted into cheers and applause. They exchanged excited glances, waiting with bated breath for what would come next—the pivotal nod from the network that would set their dreams in motion.
The evening sun cast a warm hue over Vic's backyard as Jade observed Izzy and Trina's kids playing freely. The well-maintained space, surprisingly kid-friendly despite lacking a pet, served as a playground for the children's boundless energy.
Sitting nearby, Will attempted an intimate gesture, kissing Jade's shoulder. However, she recoiled, an unmistakable tension hanging in the air. "Stop," she declared, her voice sharp.
"Why?" Will inquired, puzzled by her reaction.
"No one else is doing that kind of stuff," Jade retorted, her gaze scanning the gathering. Couples mingled, enjoying the festivities with a sense of ease. Trina and Alan, Cat and Rob, and even Beck and Masie displayed affection without overwhelming the atmosphere.
"You're not single like they are," Will reasoned, defending his actions.
"None of them are single! All of them have someone. And no one feels the need to mark their territory. Don't treat me like some object," Jade asserted, frustration etched on her face.
"If I weren't here, you'd be on one of them... you know it," Will suggested, his tone revealing a hint of possessiveness.
"I was fine out here playing with the kids," Jade countered. "Why are you bothering me about anyone else?"
"I don't like you working with them again," Will admitted, his jealousy seeping through.
"Rob and Cat are a thing," Jade disclosed. "Rob hasn't stolen me from you in all these years. What makes you think he could do it now?"
"I don't know what kind of ideas these people put in your head," Will snapped, his frustration mounting.
"You might want to be watching the internet and hope none of those ideas get into my head," Jade warned, standing up in anger. "Because if they did, I'd think you were being abusive and trying to isolate me from people. And that's not what you are doing, right? Because you really love and care about me. You didn't groom me. You aren't trying to control me... right?"
A heavy pause hung in the air as Will realized the gravity of his actions. Jade's eyes closed off to him, signaling the breach widening between them. Desperation seized him. "Babe, I love you. Of course, I am not trying to control you. You're a grown woman."
"Then why, when I was doing that Christmas mini-tour with Seth, did we fight so much? Why is it that I ended up pregnant with Izzy after we came back because you were so jealous of the man? Why won't he work with me anymore?" Jade questioned her anger and frustration laid bare.
"Y- You'd have to ask him," Will stammered, sensing the ground slipping beneath him.
"I will..." Jade declared, her eyes focused on the kids. "Hey, guys, it's getting dark. Let's go back into Aunt Vic's house." The children gathered around her, and the five of them headed back into the house, leaving Will to grapple with the weight of his actions.
Cat and Vic, having overheard the tense exchange between Jade and Will, found a moment of connection beside the glass door. The two exchanged knowing glances, their silent communication culminating in a clink of glasses. As they rejoined the party, Vic settled close to Leon, and the conversation shifted to nostalgic tales from their time on set.
"I remember when you and Cat used to pretend to date," Rob remarked, directing his comment to Jade.
Jade paused, rolled her eyes, and chuckled. "What makes you think we were pretending, Robert?" She shot a playful look at Cat and then glanced towards Will through the sliding glass door. "I "dated" most of the people in this room except the newbies."
"So no significant others or children," Rob laughed.
"You and I never dated!" Beck interjected.
"Ha! No... I did enough kissing you on set," Jade retorted. "In fact, Beck and Leon were never the only ones.
"Uh, Excuse me?" Trina said. Jade Laughed.
"I have at least kissed you once or twice," Jade stated.
"I remember one time I came up to you for a Stoop Kids video and was like, 'Ay... you ever kissed each other?'" Rob recalled.
Cat began to giggle. "Jade wanted no part of that video. She was so serious."
"Yeah, Cat was all, 'It's not when we're in private... it's when we're in public. She gets...'" Rob paused, his expression thoughtful.
Jade shot a glance at her husband, a realization settling in. Her attitude mirrored what she had experienced with Will. "I said, I get possessive."
"Yeah, then Cat said, 'She gets possessive of me, it's weird,'" Mattie added, scrolling through his phone. "I can probably still pull out the video."
Jade looked at Cat, then at Will, her heart racing. Questions swirled within her. Who was she? Did she truly love Will? Could she live with him, knowing what he had done to her? The uncertainty loomed, casting a shadow over the familiarity of their shared history.