Hey There,

Welcome Back Quogan fans! It'll probably be Friday by the time this reaches most of you. But Merry Christmas a little early! With a slightly later than planned post! The Prom is over, and life gets somewhat more back to normal now. But with End of the year exam pressing in and so many changes coming with Prom. I think the biggest and craziest one is that I have practically run out of episodes to follow! So nearly everything else from here on out is nearly all up to me… No pressure. But I hope that this version of things is still like watching the show and fun. Let's see if I can do that? All the way to the end…

It's is in sight now, readers. And I have plan on how that will go, that is kinda starting today a little bit too. But not HUGELY, don't be blue. I am continuing with a Summer Va-kay already in the works, AND a story for SENIOR year after that… But first, I want this story to end on the very BEST note possible. So let's get this chapter going!

Standard disclaimers apply - I do not own Zoey 101, Zoey 102, Nickelodeon, MTV, or any of the other trademarked things mentioned. I am merely borrowing all of these things for my own twisted plots. Most will be returned unharmed.

Special thanks to those of you who found this story and saved it your favorite story list or Story Alert. And special thanks to all of you who favorited me as an author or placed me on your author's alert. I hope I don't let any of you down.

Special thanks to my reviewers: [and friend] Rose-Aki (Hey girl! Thank you so much for saying you liked how it started with Quinn's perspective. You know how they're always playing tug of war in my mind. That little nervous moment for Logan was so much fun. I had to get that in there, and thank you for saying it was a good move. Them running off to their private spot instead of the beach where everyone would be. Logan does have so many tricks up his sleeve to keep his girlfriend happy. I'm so tickled you like the unzippable ceiling in their tent. And teaser for his opinion on 'the experiment' are just a chip off the iceberg. Them bickering together the next morning was just too fun to think about. You also mentioned liking the moment where Zoey and James clear the air. That just felt SO important to the missing story experience. I had to pen it, it was one of those things we talk about that DEMANDED to be typed. But just as necessary as James and Zoey's moment was… So was Lola's part there at the end. And it is easy to see where she's coming from. But like you said, it's overline and I'm TOO excited to share what happens next! Thank you for your boundless kindness and support! I couldn't do it without you! Hope you're having a great day and Happy Holidays when this reaches you! Take Care and Much Love!) & Guest reviewer "Nina" (My goodness! Thank you so much for such a lovely comment. I believe in this rare case though, that Matt and Erin deserve all the praise. I'm just LOVING dreaming up these possibilities and crazy enough to post them. LoL! But it means so much that you enjoyed, that you're hopefully still reading, and having a good time. That means the world, I hope you're having a great day when these words reach you and a Happy Holidays! Thanks again so much! Take Care and Much Love!)

Enjoy!

"The Collective Trails Of A Quinnventor… And Logan"

Chapter 38 - Damaged Goods

((Quinn's Perspective))

After such a crazy weekend, Monday morning should have been a return to near normalcy. But no, not quite. Because this Monday morning in particular had too many labels to count.

It was Chase's first (official) day back at PCA. (That one I agree with, it was his first day back in class) It was also the first of Zoey's being called his girlfriend, I guess when these things happen on a weekend, even if it's a Prom weekend. They don't count till class is back in session. What a strange rule, not that I've ever understood social constructs.

Because this was somehow also the first day James was getting paired off with Lydia. To the public… And tons of bitter Betties were not happy about that. Lydia was even being labeled 'easy' by some of her cattier competition. So I was trying to help keep her earrings in her ears and comebacks profanity-free… and motherless. Never challenge an untapped comedian to any form of vocal warfare… it never ends well for their challenger. That's my takeaway from this experience. Keeping her from fighting someone, is not an effortless task by any means.

Mark was still singling out Stacey Dillsen every chance he got. Even if Stacey didn't even know why, herself. (Oh! I know what's up, he's so interested and I don't know if Stacey is or not) I'm trying not to enjoy it, because that seems indiscreet… but it kinda made my Monday a little. Watching him chase after someone for a change and that person is completely indifferent. And Stacey is a friend enough to turn to me and ask, "What's with him? Is this Still about the car hitting me? While he was driving it? Or what?"

Her 'S's are still perfect too, that's lasted. Even if she is wrapped in ace bandaging from waist to face. But she's fine, just sore.

Everyone seemed to forget this was also the first day of the real countdown to EXAMS. Where everyone needed to study constantly to make a good grade. Those who's passing still hangs in the balance needed to take great care and this would need to be an ongoing process till the end of term. NO! Who cares about that? No! Let's talk about social pairings, who's with who anymore and when did that happened. That will surely be on the test! Am I the only studious one here? Really? Doesn't any one care about this stuff.

Lola assures me, "Nope."

Before she shares what she heard about Ricky "Hands" Jenson. How he was finally served a dose of his own medicine at Prom. By getting matched up with "Right now Rita." The girl whose up for anything "in the moment." But it had worked out for both of them. They're now going out. Mo and Sockberger too, are now going steady, officially. What a cute pair they make.

But there were several falling outs of epic portions and breakups were now official as well. As noses were turned up and backs were turned by a lot of other hot and heavy pairs. Gretta Getts sadly even fell under this category, for catching her date cheating on her in the parking lot… GASP! Oh sure! That's way more important than anyone's final grades, WHAT was I thinking!

I was so completely baffled by all of these bizarre epiphanies, happening so late. That I completely forgot I had my own new one to navigate. Until Zoey kindly reminded me.

"And we're not through yet, Quinn. You've got your own exciting new change as well." Zoey had tried to warn.

I was so into everything else happening I'd said, "Huh?"

Stacey elbowed me and said, "Yes, you do you lucky DUCK!"

I think I even said, "Since when am I a duck… or lucky?" Because that doesn't sound like me at all.

My newly public boyfriend, showed up first thing this morning and kissed me right in front of everyone. Smack on the lips right when I had been in the middle of complaining about NO ONE caring about their upcoming finals enough.

Here he comes, he kissed me like it was the most natural thing in the world and said, "Hey Babe, sorry I'm little late. This is what happens when Lydia isn't on duty in the mornings." And he handed me a cup of my favorite drink when I needed a boost in the morning. How does he always know?

Lydia bit back, "Blame Calvin, Reese. He's the sexist PIG who gives me the shitty shifts. Because I wouldn't be his prom date."

Logan took my hand and asked me, "Wait, can he do that to her?"

I managed to say, "Apparently."

The sound of my answer made Logan yank me a little closer and ask quietly, "What? Are you okay? Was that too fast? It was too fast wasn't it?-"

"No, no." I started to explain matching his volume.

He explained, "I just wanted it to seem natural as it actually is. This isn't new to us, it's everybody else who has to adjust."

"I get that, and you did perfectly." I let him know squeezing his hand and he squeezed back. But I had to be just as honest about my reaction by telling him. "I think I was just a little taken off guard by some of the reactions I was hearing… you know, around us. I thought we got all of this outta the way at Prom or yesterday. Silly me."

"Nope." He shook his head. "It still isn't officially official till class is back in session."

How does he always get these things so naturally? Why am I such a lamen to social things like this? Even with such popular friends and a popular boyfriend? It just doesn't seem fair somehow, even if I know that no one can know everything.

Lola had leaned over and whispered to the both of us. "You think Lydia was getting a cold reception as James' latest greatest. Don't look now Quinn, but your's could be worse."

Logan shot Lola a glare and made a point of saying in her face. "To hell with them then, to hell with all of it. We're not hiding anymore."

And Lola said, right back, "Oh? We'll see about that."

Zoey had warned me, about what Lola has been saying about Logan and me. How it won't last long, that all it's gonna take is him messing up once. And everything will be back to normal. She doesn't want to even think of this as the new normal… Zoey said she'd told Logan before she'd warned me. And it looked like he was taking it a lot better than I thought he would. Even if that had been about a nine outta ten, on the 'tension scale.'

I really hope he felt better when I tugged on his hand and kissed his cheek. Agreeing, "To hell with them, we've got each other and our friends. That's what's important."

He smirked at me and said, "Yeah. You're right. Why don't we go grab some breakfast? You hungry?"

"Starved." I nodded letting him lead me off. Ignoring all of the laughing and pointing, or exclaimations of how 'They thought that rumor was a joke!' Or 'Logan's dating Quinn?' Followed by, 'He must just need a LOT of tutoring to pass and he's trying to cover it up. Because he's way too cool to be serious about a geek like her.'

One girl even said, 'She's not even really his friend. She's friends with his friends? What gives?'

But some people were being really nice about it too, as we got our trays. Some were pointing out, how much we danced together. And how good we'd looked, and how much fun we'd looked like we had together. I just wish I could ONLY hear those people's comments and drown out the haters.

But whenever it got to be all too much.

Logan would take my hand and say, "Hey. I love you."

And that would ALWAYS make me smile. Even when I really wanted to punch some of these people. And I always had to say, "Love you too." But this was just breakfast, classes hadn't even started yet and I was this close to hurting someone.

Something told me that this would be a really long day.

This new trick worked thankfully in vice versa, too… kinda.

Because at Lunch time it was Logan who needed to cool down. He'd been sitting with me and just fine. Until the table full of basketball teammates behind us got loud with their teasing. Michael and Chase were both trying to run interference helpfully. But all of their jabs were coming for me or my baby. Directly, one even threw something at us, I don't know what but I felt the impact.

When they crossed the line that one time too many. He launched from sitting to standing and slammed his tray on the table LOUDLY. I thought it was gonna be used to backhand the closest teammate (and loudest). He was asking for it, and it really didn't help that Lola was crossing her arms and preparing for a show with 'I told you so,' resting on her lips.

But I took his fist in both of my hands and tried his method. "Hey," but I added, "Look at me."

And waited till he did, then I said. "I love you and those ass bags aren't worth the worry or possible punishment of detention… Just sit back down and don't give them the satisfaction… okay?"

Michael Laughed, Chase asked Zoey, "Ass bags? Quinn said that?"

Zoey said, "Uh huh! I'm as shocked as y'all."

But of course, instead of going with the customary answer. Logan grinned and asked, "Did you just say, ass bag?"

That would be all he got from my little speech.

"Maybe… you're a terrible influence like that." I reminded him. "I'm not the only one rubbing off on you, a little."

His smile widened, "I've barely ever heard you curse… Ever."

"I'm aware, because I usually don't." I had been raised to believe girls just don't do that. Unless it's necessary or greatly deserved. And I think this moment more than qualifies.

He fell back to his seat, put his arms around my waist and let me know, "That was hot!"

"Oh pul-lease." I shook my head at him, while he insisted on keeping me close. "Of all of the things that you could deem a turn on. This is the best you can do?"

He kissed a hotter trail down my neck and whispered in my ear, "I never said it was the best. But it was hot as hell and I love you too."

"Okay." I said with a nod. And we both got back to sharing our lunch. And the player seated behind us were shocked that Logan wasn't fighting them. But not nearly as shocked as the guys sitting AT our table.

Vince grabbed a hold of a laughing James, to ask him. "What just happened? Was I seeing things?"

James confirmed, "Nope, their faces are still intact and Logan's perfectly fine."

Before Michael said, "Holy crap! I wouldn't have believed it if I hadn't seen it with my own two eyes. Quinn's better than anger management for our boy. Girrrrl! Where have you been?"

"Here," I ended up shrugging, "Who knew, right?"

Since Lola was still having trouble picking up her jaw from off the floor, I slipped a finger under her chin and told her. "Let me help you with that." Before I flicked her chin and flipped her mouth shut.

Again, we weren't the ones who had to get used to our little change. We were the ones who finally got to get more comfortable. Letting these things out now, when they've been kept in the shadows too long. It was everyone around us, even if especially these friends we keep who needed to get used to seeing us together this way. Some of them were already used to it. Others were gonna take more time. It was just human nature in the end… but that doesn't mean I'm entirely thrilled with Lola's hurtful take on things.

I couldn't wait for her to eat those words. And I didn't "think" I KNEW we were gonna defy those odds easily.

As the basketball team went on to new targets though. Since Logan wasn't as easy a target as they'd hoped for the moment. I didn't miss the shift in Logan's energy, at how happy he actually was right now. Sitting here with me instead of charging after those jerks.

He looked so completely thrilled and just seeing him this way. Made me just as exuberant. So at this circle table surrounded in friends, I let him pull me into his lap and even steal a quick kiss. Even though I'm sure it was in front of everyone. Fully realizing this was something we couldn't have even done too many days ago before now. The newness still felt strange, but the magic between us had never been stronger.

(Chase's Perspective)

I know that there's a lot going on today. That there's a lot more negativity hitting our little group than I think ANY of us were prepared for. And it seems to be the running theme for the rest of our classmates as well… even the seniors who don't have much longer time left here at PCA. Even the classmates who weren't at PROM this weekend, did go to the little fairground built just off campus and there was all kinds of younger kid drama there too apparently. So it's not JUST us, or JUST our relationship status changes. Everyone was in a whole new world this Monday.

But no matter how negative everything seems. No matter how crazy the repercussions of Prom still are this Monday morning… This is PCA! How bad can it really be? I get to walk around in a t-shirt, there's no constant rain or gloominess. It's sunny, warm, the beach is in walking distance. I'm completely surrounded in friends, familiar faces, and places that have so many memories.

And BEST of ALL! There's a tiny hand FINALLY tucked into mine that makes all the more WORTHWHILE!

Zoey Brooks… my best friend, and favorite person period. Is finally, FINALLY my girlfriend! And NOTHING can spoil that. Not one thing on planet EARTH! NOT ONE THING…

Well, for me nothing can spoil it, I'm still too jazzed to be here and be with her. NOTHING can rain on that parade.

I wish that same unshakable happiness was here for my new girlfriend. She was getting the blunt end of all of the chatter though. People who were still sore about James picking her to date not long ago. Were all coming for blood trying to label Zoey any bad thing they could think of. Even though James was no part of any of that and had done nothing but defend her. Even when his new interest defended Zoey just as venomously. Along with all of our friends.

She was still getting called every name in the book… And just in case you don't know this, about, my girl. Zoey Brooks is not the person to take anything like that lying down. She's coming back swinging, and it landed her in hot water with the Dean. So as a compromise, Zoey has been asked to talk to a bunch of possible students touring PCA. Hoping to attend here in the future.

She hates this, but I volunteered to stand with her and help out any way I can. Not just because I'm being a supportive boyfriend either. But I really do think Zoey and me are the perfect twosome to paint the BEST picture possible of this school. Especially since both of us had to leave it and NEITHER of us plan to do that again till we have to (You know, after graduation).

So, besides getting ready for exams. The both of us also need to come up with a plan of what things to share. And what things NOT share about the school. For this thing, we don't wanna scare the newbies to death. But this school this spirit this place has a magic about it… and I want to express that ANYWAY we can.

So that was what we ended up discussing over dinner tonight. And it should have enough to keep all of my attention and interest. But as the newly returned stingray… I couldn't help but notice all of the changes in my friends too… they were just so grabbing.

They've all gotten so paired off… but their all still so close to one another… I mean, WOW!

Like Vince and James are totally besties. With their chemistry that was just contagious. It gave me and Michael a run for our money. Lisa was much more comfortable with everyone now. And she fit right in, when she'd still been kind shy about sitting with us all the time. When I'd left for Covington. Lola and Vince do make a great pair, in person. I hadn't gotten to see too much of that, in my video chats. And theatrical Lydia really did seem like the perfect match for almost too chill James. Lisa and Michael were as inseparable as ever. And if I'm not entirely crazy, I think Del Figgalo could have a thing for Stacey Dillsen. I never would have matched them together…

But still surrounded in all of this changed and refreshing company. Nothing COULD have prepared me for the changes I was seeing in Logan… OR Quinn if I'm being honest.

Quinn doesn't read or study through meals anymore, and Lola said she doesn't tutor then as much either. She makes a point of stopping and joining the group. (Or probably even just Logan) Even though they don't have to hide it anymore. They still hold hands under the table, because it's just comfortable to them. Quinn looks so much more comfortable in her own skin, she's not as manic as I remember and I think, she even looks prettier than used to. Because this love suits her that much.

But Logan… he's like a different person sometimes.

A flock of girls went by our table in bikinis talking about volleyball… not something that EVER happened at Covington. EVER.

I'll admit my head halfway turned before I caught myself. And chided myself, "Whoo, I gotta remember where I am."

But Logan… Never even noticed!

LOGAN!

I can't stress enough how AWESOME that is. And ALTERED from the shameless roommate I used to keep.

He's even planning some crazy complicated thing, that I thought had to be an 'End of the Year Project.' For one of his classes, but it turned out to be something for Quinn. Something about some experiment they've worked on together. I have no clue what ANY of that is. But my guess is if you're trying to woo a scientist… Some of your aim has to be as serious as a final project. Especially if you want to impress.

So while I couldn't be happier for my friends, the pairs within that group, or MYSELF! And the pair I'm finally par of… Something tells me there still won't be a dull moment in this life. Not even with summer vacation coming so close.

((Lola's Perspective))

Revenge is sweet!

I know it probably makes me a terrible person, saying that. Especially since we're talking about my best friends, here… and Stacey too. I can't count her as one of those, she's just kinda there… against everyone's will.

AND NO! I don't count Reynolds (Lydia) in that mix at all, she is my role-rival in everything having to do with my drama classes. The ONLY stingray who could possibly beat me and has come close several times. But in the play we're practicing for now Lydia WAS chosen as the star for some reason and there's NO way that's even remotely 'okay.'

Sure it's a comedy and Lydia's got a background doing stand up. Who doesn't?

Okay, I don't. It's too nerve-wrecking, cutthroat, and HARD. My uncle who does have a background in stand up said it's like jumping off of a building without a parachute or safety net dangerous. But if you do well it's better than drugs, which that same Uncle also has a history in.

But I'm FUNNY! I know I am! I don't have to be a comedian to kill at funny things.

Give me a gory death scene anytime in a period piece and I will make people CRY.

Doesn't that count for ANY thing ANY more?

I'm still pissed at James for picking that girl out of SO MANY better choices.

Like he could have thrown a rock any place on campus and found BETTER! But I really don't care if I'm labeled a bitch here or not.

REVENGE is a BEAUTIFUL thing.

In one day, everyone but me got a brand new label and NONE of them are labels you want.

Since Zoey had jumped literally from James to Chase so seamlessly. She was getting called every name in the book by all of the girls James hadn't picked. Not only was that a lot of girls, but a whole bunch of those titles I'm not even comfortable repeating.

Even though I'm happy that she's happier with Chase. And so glad that she worked things out with James so he is still our friend… I find it so wonderful that karma has come back around in my favor. On someone who was so reluctant to accept my boyfriend. Even if Zoey is one of my best friends. It's just poetic justice… and that's not even the best part.

Lydia is only slightly less hated than Zoey, very slightly. Because she's James current clear choice in girlfriend. Zoey broke his heart for Chase in these crazed fangirl's eyes. Lydia's the one who's not nearly good enough. HA!

And they haven't even officially gone out on a date yet. These girls are out for blood like that before the dating can even start. Lydia's already getting called every 'easy' term ever written. HaHA! Bet that's a role she didn't even have to audition for to nail. Bet that background in comedy doesn't help her there either.

Stacey's wrapped in bandages like a mummy. And Quinn's kinda gotten stuck taking care of her. Stacey doesn't complain or make a big fuss or anything. It's just annoying how she thinks she can follow us around, like she's one of us or something… But that's always annoyed me. A lot longer than just today. The new unbearable part of Stacey always hanging with us is that for some unknown reason, Del Figgs keeps following her around like a lost puppy now. And even though I could care less who either of them like or date. I will admit (for Quinn's sake more than mine), it's entertaining to see Mark chase after a girl who wants nothing to do with him.

I know I caught Quinn smiling more than a few times after Mark was shooed off.

Speaking of my other best friend Quinn. She's lowered herself to dating our very own player of our group. Logan Reese, I don't know what she's thinking. What possessed her to lower her standards so entirely… I don't think I'll ever know. But that's what the smartest person in our group has done. Most recently, to make us all question that brilliance… and her choice in men.

I've heard their whole story and I still can't imagine how things have turned out this way. I'm trying to keep an open mind. I am! Really! But what I will say is that there's no way on God's green earth this is gonna last… like, at ALL.

Lisa's the only other girl not affected by all of the crazy rumors and changes. She did get a few highfives for straightening Michael out when he'd been ignoring her. But otherwise, Lisa wasn't facing big life altering things this morning.

When I told her my opinion on things, as stated above… she didn't give me an answer I was expecting at all.

Lisa told me, "I'm gonna pray-"

I asked, "For Zoey? Stacey? Or Quinn? I think Quinn needs it more than anybody."

But she told me, "No, I'm gonna pray for you, Lola."

"Me? Why me? I'm fine." I said with confidence.

But Lisa said, "Quinn and Logan are both our friends and have been for years. They've both been much better friends to me than most. But right now, you're making yourself out to be the absolute worst, and not just to them either. You're making yourself out to be… just awful. And I think you need to be careful. Because if you're not, you couldl lose more than just them, as friends."

I don't know why she's gonna be praying for me. When clearly Quinn's the one who needs a little more of God's attention. For letting Logan delude himself into thinking he deserves her. Maybe she's why I'm questioning whether I'm a good person or not.

No! Even if I am questioning things. Logan's the one who needs check himself, before he wrecks himself. Logan's mean, boring, dumb, and like I mentioned already above. He's a total player, a slimy and slippery jock strap obsessed with himself to the point of loving mirrors. How in the world he managed to dupe Quinn into thinking she's his serious girlfriend… I'll NEVER know! But what I do know is that I have no reason to fret.

This relationship is better than doomed it's gonna be over with before it started. Just like James' with Lydia.

So I'm just waiting for Logan to screw up big enough to mess it all up for himself. So Quinn can dump him and get back to finding a suitable match that has some chance of standing the test of time. And hopefully, she can redeem herself this time. By showing much better taste in men on this next one too.

First Del Figgs and now Logan? Woooooow! This is the best our class brainiac can do?

But by dinner time tonight, I was the only girl sitting at that table not ready to throw things at our surrounding audience. Zoey was mad about being cast the Biggest Bitch of our grade level. Lydia was mad too, but I was too entertained by her anger to care about why she was so livid. My bet was that her roommates had read her the riot act again. They're both the heads of James' fan club for months since he arrived.

Lisa was still angry with me for tearing down a relationship that WON'T last, she'll see. While Quinn was sick of being called DUMB! Hahahahahaha! You can't write this stuff. What does she expect from dating Logan? That's probably the only insult his fan base could spell right if they all put their heads together.

I've never been so glad that my boyfriend is always the quickest to join us. Like I was today, but going off with Vince and grabbing some dinner together. I asked him, "Do you think I'm a terrible person?"

He said, "Of course not, what in the world made you ask something like that?"

I shared with him my opinion and told him what Lisa had said too.

After hearing all of that (which is a lot for any guy to listen to) Vince told me, "You're just being protective of Quinn and you don't trust Logan. After hearing some of your reasons why, I can't say I blame you. But like you said Quinn's a genius and she's been through a lot lately. I think that even you have to admit, even if you don't trust Logan at all. He's been a very good friend to Quinn throughout all of her stuff. He was able to be there more than anyone else too."

"Yeah, sure." I had to admit to my guy, even if it hurt. "But that's even as a 'friend.' Not a BOY friend! You know? HUGE difference THERE."

"I'm not so sure you do, babe." He said kindly, why can't I ever get as mad at him as everyone else?

I did tell him to "Watch it."

And he explained, "All I'm saying is I'm not the newbie anymore. I've been here too and I totally noticed something between Pensky and Reese. I even got a little closer with Zoey and Lisa through noticing things and talking about it with them. As a part of this group, I can honestly say I saw it coming and it's not so horrible when you start to acknowledge just how good for one another they've been."

I scoffed at him, "You think their good together? WHERE? I'll wait?"

"Yeah, sure Logan's sounding and acting better probably because of Quinn. I'll give you that." But my guy had to just mention, "But I think it's getting underplayed how much he's affected Quinn too. How she has lightened up so much and looks so much more comfortable in her own skin now. Compared to what she was like when she was with Mark… it's like two different people, babe. Chase was saying it too today, she's like a whole new girl. I think if you start there, you can find that even you can appreciate the Logan-factor of this pairing. Just try, okay? For Quinn's sake."

So for Quinn's sake, I promised to try. But I really didn't think any good would come from this. Even if I do really love Vince and want him to be right. But I just don't see that happening… Not in a million years.

(James' Perspective)

I know it's only Tueday, and that's too short a time to really decide anything.

But I can't help but feel like I've done nothing but bring on a LOAD of bad luck to Lydia. Ever since I noticed her, danced with her and asked her out.

She's said 'yes.' I was so happy, nothing like this ever occurred to me.

But even though it's only been a few days, in that very short time. A bunch of random terrible things have happened to her, a classroom pet left in her care has died. Given that was a senile gerbil, but still tragic. Two of her projects somehow got wiped clean from her external hard drive mysteriously. Even if she is suspicious of her partners on that charge. AND all of our peers keep calling her 'easy,' though even I don't know why.

But even though she's had every right to call our date off and never speak to me again. She's stayed upbeat and cheerful with everyone else. Even if a little especially me. She's ignored their barbs, flipped their insults back over on themselves and shown great wit AND grace. No matter what everyone else surrounding us said… She's never said one mean word to me or any of my friends. Even when Lola was practically asking for it at times. I mean, like all of the other girls hitting her kind of cutting comments. And I even wanted to slap her myself, but thankfully I was raised better than that.

Lydia stayed sunny and smiley with practically everyone else. And she seemed to brighten for me, just a little.

Until the latest catastrophe this afternoon took shape, and I found Lydia in tears sitting outside of the theater house. I knew she had been practicing there during all of her spare time for a play she and Lola were both appearing in tomorrow night. I already had plans with our gang to attend and support both actresses. But the only thing different about this play from all of the others I've seen during my time here at PCA. Was in this play Lydia was actually the leading lady for a change.

Lola was a leading co-star role… that never happens.

But Lydia's energy was more comedic, and spicy. From what I've seen for myself in these peeks of their play. This role needed to be portrayed more to Lydia's style. And Lola was GREEN with envy, for missing out on even this one leading role… she's my friend and I love her, I do. But what a big baby! And she's not exactly helping herself change that opinion with all of her treatment of everybody else right now. Specifically Quinn, Logan, Lydia and me.

They'd been working on it for weeks and I had been sneaking peeks whenever I could. Usually, around this time of day, they would be in full-blown rehearsals… this close to curtain time, they were even in dress rehearsals. I was just passing through to see if I could catch a glimpse or two. Like I had been doing for days… even before Prom if I'm being honest.

But seeing the whole theater abandoned and finding Lydia genuinely all to pieces outside was not the scene I'd hoped to catch.

I sat next to her and tried to calm her down. But she was so upset at first, that all she could do was cry. So, I just held her till she could talk. By then Quinn had found us and was sitting there with us. Because Lydia hadn't shown up for a tutoring session.

Quinn seemed to know a little more about what could make Lydia so upset. Because I heard Lydia ask Quinn, around her tear-soaked costume sleeve. "Did you hear?"

And Quinn replied, "I'm afraid I did. It was all over the PCA newsfeed-"

"Even the video, he posted?" Lydia asked still wiping at tears with a soaked-through sleeve.

Quinn gave a tiny packet of Kleenex, and said, "Videos, plural… I'm so sorry Lydia. But a full blown history was posted to that website. All about you and your former partner."

I had to interject. "Wait a minute! What's going on here?"

Quinn went to tell me but Lydia stopped her and said, "No! This should really come from me. Can you give us a minute, please Quinn?"

She said, "Sure, but I'll be right over here, if you need me." And something about the look Quinn shot me before she went outta sight. Told me that I was gonna need to talk to her soon.

Lydia took both of my hands and said, "James, thank you so much for asking me out. I wish things were different, but with all that's been-"

"What makes you say anything like that?" I asked her. What could make her have such a turnaround. And how is it big enough for Jeremiah Trottman to be reporting it? What videos? What site? I have way too many unanswered and unasked questions for this to end here.

Lydia tried to explain, "Be-Cause remember how I told you I was once part of a comedy duo?"

"Yeah," I remembered her saying that in passing. But she'd been super clipped with anything about it.

"Well, I made it out to be this teeny thing, no big deal. But actually, it was a pretty big deal it was my whole middle school span entirely and the other half of this duo was a guy. My ex-comedy partner and also my ex-boyfriend all in one. He's is coming here to see the play tomorrow night."

"You're old partner?" I tried to understand this could be linked to so many tears.

But Lydia took a deep breath and said. "Yes, but he's not really coming to see the play. He's coming here to ruin my life again."

"What makes you say that?" I had to have more info. This was all flying over my head.

"Because he's MAD famous, he ended our partnership when he caught his big break," Lydia explained further.

"When you say famous… how famous are we talking here?" I had to know.

She insisted, "Famous enough to make it very public this time and WORSE than the first time. I don't want to pull you into any of this so… I don't know how much I should say." She said getting all upset again. I had to calm he down and plead with her to please tell me more.

She finally shared, "He's announced it on his fan site today. He also put out this HORRIBLE video telling all about our past together. Then I guess several old videos my family had made him take down got put back up. He says he's coming to reconnect with an old pal, but I know his real game. He's planning to wreck my life again, like he already has before. If you want to call it off and never speak to me again… I totally understand. You should save yourself from this sinking ship-"

"Whoa whoa! You're former partner and ex? Turned Famous and Evil?" I had to know. "Exactly who is this guy?"

"It's George Randall." She said, but she couldn't mean the only person I'd heard of to have that name. He was crazy famous and our age, one of the most famous youngest comedians to ever get picked for 'Friday Night Live.' He's a household name, but Lydia confirmed, "We used to be a comedy team all throughout middle school, we traveled everywhere together back then and dated the whole time too. Till he got his big break and broke my heart, and ended our whole thing all on the spot."

"But if he's famous, why is holding a grudge like that?" I asked her and she made a face at me.

"It's complicated," Lydia tried to warn me.

I tried to tell her I would listen to whatever she wanted to share. By saying, "I've got nothing but time."

Lola came over and sat next to me out of thin air. Still wearing her high colared costume from the play too. To ask, "Why's this guy coming here and holding a grudge, then? We don't have anywhere else to be."

I accused, "Evasdropping much?"

"Oh, come oooooon! I'm curious now! Rival or not! Besides, this is the second act you're intruding on, James. I was here for act one on the stage just now. With our drama teacher and cast." Lola claimed, "And what was all that talk about a scholarship and all? I didn't get ANY of that."

Lydia explained, "Since I'm here, attending Pacific Coast Academy through a scholarship program… Not only could my life be ruined a second time by this homewrecker. But I may not be allowed to finish out my year here, or return next year… especially since it's a drama program that I'm signed up for and the whole cast has just walked out on performing tomorrow night."

"Ooooh, okay," Lola said, while I clearly needed more info, I still felt lost.

But before I could even say so, Lola was also pointing out. "And how does Quinn already seem to know all of this somehow? I want to know too, spill it, girl."

Lydia did confirm, "Quinn was my first friend here at PCA, and that only happened because she was tutoring me when my grades got bad. I wasn't used to all these fancy college prep courses, I've never been very smart-"

Lola said rudely, "No kidding-oww!"

She'd been cut off when Quinn had thrown something at her. And I had to say, "Thank you Quinn. If hadn't thrown that I would have had find something to throw myself."

Lola pouted, arms crossed, "She said it herself, I was just agreeing with her. Oh Boo! You both are no fun."

I told Lydia to, "Please, go on."

She took a deep breath and tried to describe. "When I first got here, I was not the too-talkative, hot mess I am today. No, I hardly talk to anyone my first year here… freshmen year. I only talked when I had a script in my hand… I didn't talk to anyone otherwise and I was too afraid to make any friends at all. After all that happened at my last school, George broke my heart, ruined my reputation, slept with all of my old friends and he's just the worst. But Quinn was the only person I ever told about any of it, here. Even after I came outta my shell again and started to be myself again."

Quinn appeared confirming, "And I didn't tell anyone."

"I know you didn't, Pensky. I know this is all happening because of George and no other reason. But he doesn't want me to ever be happy. With or without him. It was so bad I had to disappear, change my name and everything… but now he's found me again. And I know he's gonna just poison everything he touches when he gets here." Wait, did she just say she had to change her name? School and life to hide from this guy? What the-

Lola asked, "Isn't that a little much?"

Lydia insisted, "Not when you know our whole story."

And Quinn was already backing Lydia's take on this. Nodding with her, before she even explained the rest.

Lydia began to decipher, "It turns out George never even liked me at all-"

I had to stop her right there, "The guy who spent that much time with you? Never liked you? Not possible."

"No, it's true." Lydia refind. "He didn't care about me at all, not even for a second. I just never realized it till I out from under his thumb. For him it was all about material gain and how much of it could get from me. He was using me, the WHOLE time. And he didn't even just use me to show off his talents either…whenever we got on stage together. He was the star and I was sidekick. He never wanted to date me at all, he just did to keep me in his pocket. He wanted to go out with my oldest sister. The only reason he went out with me at all was hoping to get back at her for giving him the shaft. Too bad for him, I don't think his target ever even noticed he liked her."

Lola had to ask, of all things. "So what? Is your sister really all that hot?"

Quinn even scolded, "Lola!" The same time I (James) did.

"Oh come on! Lydia's cute and all, but she's not exactly hot either? No offense." Lola tried to cush this blow… unsuccessfully.

Lydia waved back, "I know what you mean and none taken."

Lola went on digging herself deeper and deeper. "Does she got a hot a sister stashed somewhere or something? Seriously, what would make a famous guy like him drop everything to come here and try to sabotage his old undiscovered comedy partner's new life? After she went to all the trouble of hiding from him so well? Where does this story make any sense?"

Lydia explained, "I have four older sisters, and the one he's mad at is the oldest of us all. She's a model, she's a big deal these days. Have you ever heard of Yvonne Lesley?"

Lola and me both jumped, but Lola spoke first. "She's only the face of Forever-Stay Lipwear. My favorite lipstick brand on planet EARTH. Who hasn't heard of her?"

"That's my oldest sister, Lesley's my real last name. Before I had to change it." Lydia shared. And my mind was totally blown.

Lola's clearly wasn't. "But wait a minute, WAIT a MINUTE! Yvonne Lesley is a quadruplet? Isn't she? Or is that made up?"

Lydia confirmed, "Yep, like I said. I have four older sisters, they all have the same birthday. Me and my two brothers all have different ones from each other."

Lola's only takeaway from this info was, "Wow! So Ma and Pops could NOT keep their hands off of each other. Could they?"

Quinn and me freaked out on her again, "LOLA!"

"What? Nothing wrong with that, rock on." Lola tried to save herself a little.

"Yvonne's also like the sweetest person who ever lived, in person. She's not one of those catty models you always hear about. She's a real princess, a class act… WAY outta George's League. No matter how famous he gets. But Yvonne never looked at George twice, not that way. Not even since he got BIG… He's finally figured out he'll always be little George to her…from up the street. So, if he's coming here… I know he's planning on trying to exact some more revenge. On me and probably my sisters through me. Ruining this new life I've built for myself. My advice now is you should all run while you still can. I know most of our cast already has."

Lola confirmed, "Yep, nearly everyone's walked out on the play. Except you and me."

Lydia peeked out of her folded arms and asked, "You haven't thrown in your towel yet, Martinez? Why? I thought you would be first in that line. Thrilled to absolute DEATH to tell the drama teacher 'You told her so.' Because I heard you tell her when she cast me the star this time that she would regret it. And I'm sure she does today."

Lola surprised us all by saying, "Eh! Getting to say stuff like that isn't all it hyped up to be. I just end up feeling like an ass at the end of the day. And Lisa starts praying for me…Even when I'm always right, these days."

Quinn drew out, "Reeeeally? You don't say?"

"Oh shut up, Quinn!" Lola told her and their argument carried on I'm sure. But I didn't hear it as Lydia retook both of my hands and turned to face me.

She couldn't even look me in the face as she said, "I was so happy when you asked me out. I haven't been out with anyone since George and I really was looking forward to finally stepping out with someone new… with you."

"So was I, I still am." I tried to assure her.

But she was certain, "I don't feel right about even trying to start something new with anyone. If he's gonna be here to ruin it all tomorrow. That just isn't fair to anyone-"

"Why do you keep thinking I'm gonna-" I tried to get out but Lydia was already cutting me off.

To say, "Because I'm damaged goods here, James! If you see the videos, you'll know that in a second! One of those videos alone is enough to throw my scholarship here in jeopardy. The collection he's released… I might as well go pack my bags. I'm probably not even gonna get to keep attending this school in the end." She spelled out for me before she went on to explain. "And you're a squeaky clean good guy. Every girl's dream, you could be with anyone you wanted. And when George gets here tomorrow to ruin everything, my whole new life again… I don't want more than one life up for ruination." She told me so sadly. "So Please… Please, just go with your friends and forget all about me."

But I couldn't bare it, I couldn't even think of doing as she asked. I had to help her some way, anyway that I could and I had to let her know. I wanted to date her more than ever now. Knowing some more of what she'd overcome and been through. Every little peek of this person I got, just got more and more interesting. I wanted to know more and I wanted the chance to do that. If she leaves PCA now, or doesn't come back from summer break… I may never get that chance.

I was so bowled over, by everything, all of it. That I almost missed Quinn telling Lydia about an outdoor area where she could hide and get herself together. It was nearby and no one would bug her. She could get her thoughts together without people staring at her or judging her there.

Lydia had asked for some alone time, and that's the only way Quinn and Lola dragged me away from her. She needed time to think, and I had to give her that. I had give her room to breathe… even if my heart was breaking letting her go. Because I was terrified she'd take this reprieve to run away… and I really didn't want things to end this way.

The moment Lydia was safely tucked into this hiding place. Lola was asking Quinn rudely, "Is that one of those hiding places where you used to meet with Logan? While you guys were lying about where you were?"

Quinn shushed her telling her, "There are more important things happening right now. Come on, we gotta go meet up with the others their already gathering in the outdoor eating area… someplace. They're already there trying to run damage control."

Quinn didn't even look up from her phone, I was so out of it. It didn't even occur to me she was texting and already trying to pool resources and help Lydia ANY WAY we could. But that's the kind of friends we have now and they had all dropped everything on a dime. To help… I've never been more glad to have these people… every one of them. In my life as I was today, even though I feel like I keep sayig this every day lately.

Logan was the first one to meet us and start talking fast with Quinn. He'd already alerted Lydia's sisters to this problem. Yvonne was working for his Dad, this afternoon on a movie set. And all four sisters had confirmed they would be here tomorrow to back up their baby sister. So her ex would have to go through them as well as us. He had also started trying to plan out how to make up for the missing cast of actors and actresses Lydia and Lola needed to pull off this performance tomorrow. Dean Rivers himself had assured, as long as the performances still take place. All six over the course of the next week like planned. Lydia's scholarship couldn't be contested… But since all of that cast had walked out except Lola. Logan was hard-pressed to find replacements or a workable plan to save these performances. Even with his connections.

While he'd been working all of that out, Zoey had been working on getting those videos taken down. Lisa was helping her with this task so they could get them taken down two at a time.. Michael was trying to make a video that would advertise all the performances going as planned. And getting word out so that maybe, just maybe, this performance could be PCA's best EVER. That would help our newest friend so much… but he couldn't post a video without a plan.

Chase and Vince were trying to figure out how they could run all of the stage equipment from Chase's computer. Since the tech drama cast had quit as well and that was important to the overall success of everything. And Stacey and Mark had started scanning all of Lydia's exes social media to look for dirt. As well as his other exes sites, and a list of Lydia's former friends as well, for even better dirt on him. Anything that Lydia could use to gain the upper hand at all.

Again. I've never been more glad to have all of these people in my life. I had to run and get Lydia, I had to climb into the hiding place Quinn had shown her and offer her my hand. When she looked up at me with so many question marks surrounding her. I told her, "Come with me, you need to see this for yourself. I'll never do it justice."

Reluctantly, she took my hand and let me tug her back to that area with me. I walked her to just a few feet out from where our friends were all gathered. And I let her know, "That's no class project or experiment they're working on, all of that over there is for you. And keeping you here with us."

"What?" She asked in total disbelief. "But how? Why? Most of them barely know me that well… and I know Martinez wants me gone… You can't deny that."

"No, I can't," I had to be honest. "I have heard her asking if they would have done this for her. But even she knows the answer to that already is 'yes.' That's the magic of this place. Of being friends with these people."

"The magic?" She questioned.

"Because that's the kind of friends they are." I let her know. "All of us, as well as Quinn. They don't want you to leave any more than I do. But none of this can work if you don't let us help you…can you come help us figure out what we can do? To keep you here with us, now as well as senior year? It won't be the same without you."

She paused for a second and said, "You're talking like there's a chance I can still salvage things here, Garrett. Have I somehow skipped out on how hopeless things are here? For me? How he's done this before?"

"Nope, you explained perfectly," I assured. "But what I'm telling you is this time things are different. We're not gonna leave you out to dry like those former friends did. We have ideas and plans that can help, and we can figure out more if you let us help you. We want to help you, all you have to do is let us and things can be different. I promise you, they can be better than they were. And you won't have this hanging over your head anymore."

That was when we were spotted by Zoey and Lisa who had just gotten the last videos taken down. They ran over took Lydia's hands and pulled her back to the table with them. Then I got to sit back and watch it all unfold. Everything they'd been doing, since they'd learned about this douchbag's vendetta against Lydia. Like I've looked so many times this past few months, Lydia looked completely shocked. Like she didn't know what to think or say. And I told her, "Still think it's all so hopeless?"

I got to watch her take in every fact, and realize that when this jackhole gets here tomorrow. No matter what his plans may be, she was gonna have a whole lot more backing her up this time. And it wasn't gonna be just me, in her corner, either. Or Quinn, she was gonna have all of us and everything we could do.

But sadly all of this prep for dealing with George personally. Still left Lydia without a cast for six scheduled performances. The only things Logan could pull together was a stage crew and Paulina and Gleb were gonna make appearances throughout the play as well. That was all he could magican on such short notice.

Until Zoey suggested, "Wait a minute, what if your cast is right here?"

Michael asked, "Here as in us?"

"Yeah!" She said, "What if we all step in and learn the show overnight. If we perform the other five shows after that. Wouldn't that let you keep your scholarship?"

Lydia said, "Well sure, but I don't think anyone can learn this all in one night."

Logan spoke up then boasting, "Oh come on! If I can learn things on spot for any role my dad needs filled in. This should be a cinch." Then he told Lydia and Lola to come with him and help him figure out where everyone can fill in. But before the three of them sat at another table and got all of this straight.

Lydia had to stop and tell everyone, "I don't know what to say... you've all made the words 'thank you,' seem so small and they don't even begin to cover it but-"

Lisa said, "Hey! What are friends for."

Zoey said, "Your the best barista on campus, you're the first person we see most days. You've helped us all one time or another. Your Quinn's friend and your verrrry important to James too. We've got your back. We're just glad you let us help you."

Before Logan said, "Yeah yeah, we're all in. Love all around, but we gotta get right on this. Come on, we've still got a lot of work to do."

And we all set to work doing something, anything to help somewhere. The next few days were gonna be nuts, but the next 24 hours were gonna be the nuttiest getting all of this stuff figured out. But if it kept us all together and Lydia at PCA... then it would all be more than worth it.

That's all folks!

Well for this chapter anyway! I'm gonna need a minute to figure this all out for myself LoL! Don't worry it's in the works, and it may not be posted before Christmas. But it will shortly follow. Hopefully you'r looking forward tot he rest of this tale. The performances to save Lydia, Zoey and Chase's overview of life at PCA, Logan's take on the collective trials... ALL still to come! I hope this finds you all very well, that your celebrating life, even if the holidays aren't for you. Please review if you get the chance I would love to hear from you. Hope your having a great day! Take care & Much Love!

~DarcyBeDippy85