WARNING: This chapter contains intimate content. Reader discretion is advised.

Once again, I would like to thank DukeyDukeyDoo and Mike The Red Engine for helping me proofread.

Chapter 26: New Year, New Beginnings

[It was now noon by the time Lori, Bobby, Lincoln and Ronnie Anne had arrived back at the Loud house. As soon as Bobby pulled into the driveway, he got out first and helped Lori before Lincoln and Ronnie Anne got out by themselves. Lori walked over to the front door and unlocked it while her boyfriend and their siblings followed.]

[When Lori opened the front door, she was met with a big surprise as her family and friends, along with Sam, Rusty, Rocky, Fiona, Miguel, Clyde and his two fathers gave her a huge welcome. The living room was redecorated with an extra table that had food on it, and there was even a banner hanging from the ceiling that said FAREWELL AND HAPPY NEW YEAR, LORI AND BOBBY. To say that Lori was quite surprised by the whole thing was quite an understatement.]

Lori: "What is all of this?!"

Lynn Sr.: "What else? It's your baby shower."

Rita: "We'd thought we'd throw this whole thing before you and Bobby move out. Also, this couldn't have come at a more appropriate time since it's New Year's Eve."

Lori: "Wow...this is nice. You guys literally shouldn't have gone through all this trouble."

[Lynn Sr. chuckled.]

Lynn Sr.: "Oh, don't be ridiculous! I made all this food for the whole thing, so what's family for?"

[Bobby wrapped his arm around his girlfriend's waist and looked at her.]

Bobby: "Your father's got a point, babe."

[Bobby then gave the pregnant blonde a kiss on the side of her head.]

Leni: "Oh! There's one detail I didn't give away. This is actually a half-baby shower, half-going away party, half-New Year's Eve party. What do you think of that?"

Lisa: "Not to interrupt, but you cannot have more than two halves of something. It's logically impossible."

Luan: "Sheesh, don't be such a party pooper, Lise."

[Luan laughed while the rest of her family (sans Lynn Sr.) groaned. Carol then spoke to Lori.]

Carol: "Good to see you, Lori!"

Lori: "Hey, Carol! Nice of you to be here."

Carol: "Yeah, well I didn't want to miss this for anything."

[Carol put her hand on Lori's shoulder and smiled at her.]

Lori: "Don't be so modest. I mean what's a baby shower without friends and family?"

Bobby: "Hey, Chaz!"

[Bobby walked over to her stout teen and they gave each other a high-five.]

Chaz: "What up, Bobby?!"

Bobby: "Lori and I had a great time at the mall...and so did Lincoln and Ronnie Anne. They had an awesome time at the arcade!"

Chaz: "Awesome! Well, I think this shower will be awesome as well! Leni told me."

Leni: "Thank you!"

[Lori looked around.]

Lori: "Is everyone here, Mom?"

Lincoln: "Not quite everyone. We're still expecting two more guests."

[As if on cue, the doorbell ring.]

Rita: "Oh, that must be them now."

[Rita walked over to the door and heard two familiar voices arguing with each other.]

Albert: "Jesus, Ruthie! Would it kill you to lose a few pounds?!"

Ruth: "I don't know, Al... Would it kill you work out more?"

Albert: "Hey! I work out on a decent amount of time, don't I?!"

[Rita rolled her eyes and opened the door to see her father pushing a wheelbarrow hauling her Aunt Ruth.]

Rita: "Hi, Dad! Hi, Ruthie!"

[Albert and Ruth stopped their argument and turned their attention towards Rita.]

Albert: "Hello there, pumpkin! Sorry we're late. Your aunt Ruth had to make a couple of stops on the way here and they took a long time."

[Albert glared at his sister as he said that last sentence.]

Ruth: "Well, excuse me for having a bladder that has a mind of its own!"

Albert: "You know, we wouldn't be late if you didn't drink so much juice!"

[Rita walked over to her father and gave him a hug before he and Ruth could argue any more.]

Rita: "It's okay, guys! I'm glad you made it."

[Albert smiled warmly and returned the hug. Just then, Ruth cleared her throat.]

Ruth: "Aren't ya forgettin' something, sugar?"

[Ruth then pointed her own finger at herself. Rita broke from her father and gave her aunt a hug as well before lifting her off the wheelbarrow with Albert's help. The Loud kids then ran over to their grandfather and gave him hugs which he gladly accepted.]

Lincoln: "We're glad to see you, Pop-Pop!"

Albert: "Okay! Okay! One at a time, kids!"

[The Loud kids all eased up before their grandfather turned to look at the oldest of the kids.]

Albert: "So, how's the little one?"

Lori: "He's still growing, Pop-Pop."

Albert: "Ah, well! You didn't think I'd live to see my first great-grandkid, did ya?"

Leni: "But you can't right now. He's still inside Lori."

[Albert let out a chuckle.]

Albert: "I know that, Leni! Speaking of which, how is the little bun in the oven?"

[Albert pointed at Lori's stomach.]

Lori: "He's doing just fine. Just a few more months until he's ready."

[At that moment, Bobby walked next to his girlfriend.]

Bobby: "Hey, Babe. Who's this?"

Lori: "Oh, Pop-Pop, this is Bobby... Boo-Boo Bear, this is my grandfather, Albert Booke."

Bobby: "Hola."

[Bobby waved his hand at Albert. The old man looked at the Hispanic teen with his smile still on his face.]

Albert: "Well, hola to you too, young man. I take it you're the baby daddy?"

Bobby: "Yes, Mr. Booke... It's a pleasure to meet you."

[Bobby extended his hand, but Albert pulled the boy in for a hug and knuckle rubbed his head.]

Albert: "Aw, come on now! Mr. Booke was my dad! Just call me Albert! Or maybe Al, at least! Have you met my sister here?"

Ruth: "Oh, I already know him. If anything, he's a fine young man."

[Albert chuckled.]

Albert: "I'm sure he is! I heard about what you did to save my grandson. That was a really brave thing to do."

Bobby: "Well...it was pretty courageous... Actually, that's a bit of an over exaggeration. Me and my sister wanted to give ourselves up just so Lincoln could walk back home safely."

Albert: "Still though, I think you're a pretty brave guy. This whole world could use more men like you."

Bobby: "Thanks, but I think Lori here's my whole world."

[Lori blushed and giggled.]

Lori: "Oh, Boo-Boo Bear! You're literally too much!"

[Lori and Bobby then turned to look at each other and eskimo kissed. Albert took notice at this and smiled warmly.]

Albert: "You know, I haven't seen kissing like that since...since me and your grandmother did it. God rest her poor soul."

[Rita made a face when she heard what her father had said.]

Rita: "Okay, Dad...let's not get Lori all grossed out..."

[Albert looked at his daughter and gave her a playful smirk before looking back at his oldest granddaughter.]

Albert: "Well, either way, you kids must love each other very much, don't you?"

[Bobby and Lori stopped what they were doing and looked up at the two old people.]

Lori: "That's right. Bobby and I want to be the best parents for our little bumblebee."

Albert: "You know... That's kinda like what your mother said when you were in your her belly...except for the bumblebee part, of course. I've no doubt you're gonna do just fine."

Lynn Sr.: "Well, it looks like everyone's here!"

Luna: "Rockin'! Now let's party like it's nineteen ninety-nine!"

Lynn Sr.: "Took the words right out of my mouth, Lunes!"

[For the next fifteen minutes, the party went on smoothly. Luna and Sam played music on their guitars while Albert pulled off some of his dance moves, much to the amazement of Lori's friends.]

Chaz: "Chaz like! Who knew your grandfather could dance so well at his age?"

Ruth: "Yeah, well one of these days, my brother's gonna break a hip."

[At one point, Clyde approached Ronnie Anne as she was dancing with Lincoln.]

Clyde: "Hey, Lincoln."

Lincoln: "Hey, Clyde."

Clyde: "How are you and Ronnie Anne getting on?"

Lincoln: "Not too bad. We hit a little bump in the road last evening, but I think things are doing fine."

Clyde: "What exactly happened?"

Lincoln: "Does it matter?"

Clyde: "I guess not, Lincoln."

[Just then, Lincoln heard the sound of someone clearing their throat. The white-haired boy turned and saw Fiona looking down at him.]

Fiona: "Hey, kid... Can I steal you for a bit?"

Lincoln: "Uhhh...I guess so?"

[With that, Fiona walked into the dining room while Lincoln followed her. Once they got there, Lincoln spoke up.]

Lincoln: "What did I do this time?"

Fiona: "Nothing really... But can you just listen to me for a minute?"

[Fiona then took a deep and spoke to Lincoln.]

Fiona: "Look...I just wanted to say...thank you... For helping Dana out. I was a little late, I know! But maybe you're not such a bad kid. From what Leni told me, you know how to look after your family."

[With that, Fiona tousled Lincoln's hair, causing him to blush.]

Lincoln: "Uh...thanks, Fiona."

[Ronnie Anne took notice of the scene and made a pouting face, which was noticed by Clyde.]

Clyde: "What's the matter, Ronnie Anne? Are you jealous?"

Ronnie Anne: "Jealous? No! I just...don't... I just get a little iffy when Lincoln hangs with older girls."

Clyde: "But what about Lori? Or Leni?"

Ronnie Anne: "That's different, Clyde. They're his sisters. I mean, it'd be really weird for Lincoln to be dating his sisters. By the way, are you still thinking about Lori these days?"

[Clyde let out a chuckle.]

Clyde: "Oh, come on, Ronnie Anne! You know I've gotten over her. Haiku and I have gotten over our unrequited loves for each other."

Haiku: "Hey, Clyde."

[Clyde and Ronnie Anne yelped as Haiku appeared right behind them. The African-American boy also leaped onto Ronnie Anne's arms.]

Haiku: "Thank you for bringing me to your former crush's baby shower. You've really improved in the last seven months."

Clyde: "Anything for you, Haiku."

[Just then, Lincoln came back into the living room and saw Ronnie Anne holding Clyde.]

Lincoln: "Is something the matter, Ronnie Anne?"

Ronnie Anne: "No, Lincoln. Everything's fine. We just had a little scare, that's all."

[Clyde got back on his feet before standy by Haiku.]

[Just then, everyone heard knocking on the door. Confused, Rita opened it to find Mr. Grouse looking irritated.]

Rita: "Oh hello, Mr. Grouse. Are you here to join us?"

Mr. Grouse: "No, Loud! I came here to tell you to knock off all that racket! I'm tryin' to watch my program!"

[Lynn Sr. knew something like this was going to happen, which was why he had something planned in such an event.]

Lynn Sr.: "There's a dozen trays of Lynn-Sagna stacked on the kitchen table."

[Mr. Grouse poked up and looked around until he found the twelve trays of lasagna on the dining room table.]

Mr. Grouse: "Eh, might as well join in. But I'd like to be alone with my dishes, if you don't mind."

Lynn Sr.: "Not at all, Mr. Grouse."

Rita: "Are you sure you can stomach all of that, though?"

Mr. Grouse: "Are you kiddin'?! Why, when I was a young man, I participated in quite a few hot dog eating competitions in those days! I can eat twenty trays of Lasagna with my eyes closed."

[Mr. Grouse walked in and sat at the dining room table before digging into the first tray of lasagna. After about five seconds of silence, Ruth spoke up.]

Ruth: "Jeez, what a grouch."

Rita: "Well, to be fair, he's not like this all the time."

Luna: "Mom's got a point there. Now what do we say we groove tonight?"

[Everyone else went back to partying.]

[Soon, it was time for Lori to open some gifts. The guest of honor sat down on the couch and was handed a small gift from Leni.]

Leni: "Here! Open mine first! You're gonna, like, love it!"

[Lori took off the wrapping paper and opened the box to reveal some little green overalls. Lori smiled as she looked at the overalls and at her younger sister.]

Lori: "Oh my God, Leni! These are literally adorable!"

Leni: "Thanks! I made them myself. You think I'll make a good mother someday?"

[Chaz had overheard what Leni said and poked up, blushing. Lori simply gave her sister a nervous smile.]

Lori: "Of course... As long as you have a decent man to help you out, I think you'll do great."

Leni: "I think Chaz is more than a decent man, don't you think?"

Lori: "No doubt about it."

[Just then, Lynn Sr. spoke up.]

Lynn Sr.: "Lori... Guess what your mother has for you."

[Just then, Rita walked backwards next to Lori, before turning around quickly to show that she's wearing a baby harness with Lily riding in it.]

Rita: "Surprise!"

Lily: "Ta-da!"

[Lori was in awe over the sight before her.]

Lori: "Aw, Mother! That is so cute! I can't believe you thought about this!"

Rita: "From one mother to another, Honey. Of course you could say this gift is from Lily too."

Lily: "Poo-poo!"

Rita: "You and your siblings rode in this when you were all still in diapers."

Lynn Sr.: "It's true... Your mother and I are sure gonna miss those days."

[Lynn Sr's face started to crumble as he started reminiscing the past.]

Lynn Sr.: "Back then, when we took you to the park, you were bouncing in that thing...and..."

[Lynn Sr. started sobbing and walked into the dining room. Mr. Grouse was at his fifth tray of Lasagna and stopped eating when he saw Lynn Sr. crying.]

Mr. Grouse: "Jeez, Loud! What the hell's the matter with you?"

Lynn Sr.: "Oh...nothing, Mr. Grouse...I..."

[Lynn Sr. continued to sob before he could say anymore. Mr. Grouse, of course, can see why the patriarch of the Loud family would be coming into the kitchen bawling his eyes out.]

Mr. Grouse: "It's about Lori...isn't it?"

[Lynn Sr. nodded as his whimpered. Mr. Grouse looked down at his lasagna and back at the father of eleven before the old man took a deep breath and spoke to him.]

Mr. Grouse: "I feel ya, Loud..."

[Lynn Sr. stopped crying for a moment and turned to look at Mr. Grouse as he felt the old man's hand on his shoulder.]

Mr. Grouse: "Really...I do. When someone you've taken care of gets old enough, they'll want to move out and start their own lives. But at the same time...it's really hard to let them go. Trust me... I've had that experience myself."

Lynn Sr.: "You have?"

[Mr. Grouse nodded.]

Mr. Grouse: "Twice, actually. Did I ever tell you about my family."

[Lynn Sr. thought for a moment, thinking back to last year's Christmas when the family helped Mr. Grouse be with his own family for the holidays. He was told by Lincoln that he had nieces, but as for the rest of the people in the photo, not so much.]

Lynn Sr.: "Sorta... I don't really know what they consist of, but I know it's big like mine."

Mr. Grouse: "Well...I had two kids. One son and one daughter."

Lynn Sr.: "What are their names?"

Mr. Grouse: "James and Yvette. I've raised them until they were at least eighteen, and when the time came for when my son was an adult, he was ready to go to college. Now, I was genuinely sad at first because of the years we spent together, but I was proud of him for making something of his life. The same with my daughter."

Lynn Sr.: "What happened to them?"

Mr. Grouse: "My son went to become a hospital scrub, and my daughter a florist. They still give me a phone call every once in a while, so they haven't really forgotten about me. Look, my point is that your daughter will never forget about you...no matter how far she'll be."

[Lynn Sr. cracked a small smile and wiped his eyes.]

Lynn Sr.: "Thanks, Mr. Grouse."

Mr. Grouse: "Don't mention it, Loud. You just go back with your family while I get back to my Lasagna."

[Lynn Sr. got up from his chair and headed back into the living room where Luna, Luan, and Lynn have already given Lori their gifts. Luna had given Lori toy bongos. From Luan, she got a sock puppet. And from Lynn, she got a little red bouncy ball. Now, it was time for Lincoln to give Lori his gift.]

[Lincoln walked over to Lori with another gift wrapped box. The pregnant blonde opened it to reveal a small orange shirt. It was one of Lincoln's smaller shirts from when he was a baby. She stared at Lincoln while the white-haired boy grinned sheepishly.]

Lincoln: "What? I'm just really excited for the baby."

[Lori chuckled.]

Lori: "Look... That is really kind of you, but Bobby and I are just having a baby boy...not another Lincoln. But...thank you anyway, Lincoln. I'm sure our little Bumblebee will literally like this."

[All Lincoln could do was rub the back of his neck sheepishly. Suddenly, Lucy spoke up behind him.]

Lucy: "If I may?"

[Lincoln yelped at his younger sister and nearly fell over. The young goth then walked over to Lori.]

Lucy: "I will now present my gift to you in the form of a poem."

[Lucy then reached into her dress and pulled out a piece of paper. The young poet then cleared her throat and started reading the words to her eldest sister.]

Lucy: "Dear Lori... Congratulations on your journey so far, getting a brand new place and a brand new car... But if there are two things that fill you with joy, it's the company of Bobby and your new baby boy... Dear Lori..."

[Lori started to get misty-eyed at her gothic sister's words.]

Lori: "Aw, Luce. That's so sweet."

Bobby: "Yeah! Those are some very wise words!"

Lucy: "You're welcome."

[Just then, Lana walked up to Lori holding her gift.]

Lana: "Open mine next! It'll be really helpful!"

[Lola, who also had a gift, walked right in front of her twin.]

Lola: "No way! Open mine!"

Lana: "Hey, I was first!"

Lola: "Does the phrase 'ladies first' mean nothing to you?!"

Bobby: "Girls, please! Why don't we let Lola go first this time?"

[Lana crossed her arms and groaned while her twin stuck her tongue out at her. Bobby noticed this and crossed his arms.]

Bobby: "Without the tongue?"

[Lola quickly retrieved her tongue before giving Bobby a sheepish grin.]

Lola: "You're right, Bobby... I'm sorry."

[Lola then went forward and gave the box to Lori. The pregnant blonde took off the wrapping paper and removed the lid to reveal a stuffed bumblebee.]

Lori: "Oh my, Lola! It's so cute!"

Lola: "Isn't it, though? I got that from my toy box. I'm sure the baby's going to love it. Besides, I thought it was time for Stripes to grow up and see the world."

Lori: "Well, I think that is really thoughtful of you."

Lana: "Okay, now that you've given Lori your gift, don't you think it's time for me to give her mine?"

Lola: "But, of course! Go right ahead, dear twin."

[Lana handed Lori the gift and she opened it to reveal a small shovel and baggie.]

Lori: "This is...nice, Lana. What's this for?"

Lana: "It's for scooping poop."

Lola: "Ew! No one wants to hear about any poop at this party!"

[Lola then stuck out her tongue in disgust while her younger sister seemed quite intrigued by Lana's gift.]

Lisa: "Well, I must say, Lana. That baggie seems like a good idea. I wonder if I could get my hands on one of those."

Lana: "What would you need a poop bag for?"

Lisa: "Uh... No...reason..."

[Everyone stared at Lisa as she moved her eyes from left to right. The young genius then cleared her throat and changed the subject.]

Lisa: "Enough beating around the bush! I will now present my gift to Lori."

[With that, Lisa presented her oldest sister with a tall square box that was about twice the blonde's size.]

Lori: "What in the box?"

Lisa: "Open it and you shall find out."

[Lori took the lid off the box and it collapsed, revealing a robot. Lori was surprised at this, as was everyone else. The robot then spoke with a monotone female voice.]

Robot: Hello...maternal...unit... How may I be of assistance...?

Lisa: "Behold, your own automated housekeeper. I call her Jill."

Bobby: "Uhhh... That's very creative... But, what does this thing do exactly?"

Lisa: "It is simple, my future brother-in-law. She can cook, wash your clothes, vacuum the floors, and even change your progeny's diapers."

[Lori then made a nervous face as she looked down at her second youngest sister.]

Lori: "Uh... I appreciate the gift, but... You think this thing's safe around the baby?"

Lisa: "Think nothing of it, eldest sibling. I made her just in case anyone in this family is too busy to babysit for you. On a side note, your significant other would need a break from helping out around the house every once in a while."

Bobby: "That's kind of an over exaggeration, don't you think? Are you sure this thing will be safe for the baby?"

Lisa: "I get that you're feeling skeptical about Jill. But I can assure you, there's no need to worry. I ironed out most of, if not all of the bugs in her. Case in point, she should be safe for use."

[Bobby then started to have second thoughts about what he said.]

Bobby: "Then again, if I have to go to work, I guess this Jill could help out Lori while I'm gone."

Lori: "Okay, Lise. I guess we can give your creation a try."

Lisa: "That's what I wanted to hear. Of course, if you're not satisfied, you can always send her back to me."

[Just then, Albert walked next to Lynn Sr. and put his arm around him while looking at his grandchildren.]

Albert: "You kids mind if I steal your father for a bit? We just wanna have a little talk."

Lori: "Not at all, Pop Pop."

[Albert then looked at Lynn Sr..]

Albert: "You don't mind, do ya?"

Lynn Sr.: "Not at all, Al."

[Albert and Lynn Sr. then walked into the parents' bedroom and shut the door.]

Albert: "So, Lynn... Rita told me how you handled the news months ago..."

Lynn Sr.: "About the pregnancy?"

Albert: "Not too well, I take it?"

[Lynn Sr. sighed. He knew that Albert must've found out about his reaction, but both of them never really talked about it until now.]

Lynn Sr.: "Not really...but that's all in the past now, and I've gotten better since then."

Albert: "Yeah... Well, things don't really go as planned for us men, just like back in 'Nam... Oh boy, '68 was a really dark time for us."

[Albert then wrapped his arm around Lynn Sr. and smiled.]

Albert: "But in the end you managed to turn it around and kick life back in the nuts just like the many nuts I kicked in those VC boys! Oh, I wish I could've seen you take it to that guy who tried to lay his hands on Lori."

Lynn Sr.: "Yeah..."

[Lynn Sr. then looked over at his collection of coffee mugs and started to get an idea. Albert took notice of this and smirked.]

Albert: "You thinking what I'm thinking, Lynn?"

[When Lori was finished opening the gifts, Lynn Sr. walked out of his bedroom with Albert following behind. Lynn Sr. walked over to her and Bobby holding a small gift wrapped box.]

Lynn Sr.: "I think the father deserves a little something as well, doesn't he?"

[Lori nodded before her father handed Bobby the box. Bobby opened the box and his eyes went wide when he saw a white coffee mug with the words 'World's #1 Dad' written on it in black.]

Bobby: "Wow...this is really..."

Lynn Sr.: "It's one of my spare mugs. I thought it'd be appropriate if you had it instead of me."

[Bobby's eyes started to water as he stared at those three words.]

Bobby: "That's...really thoughtful... This means so much to me, Mr. Loud. Gracias."

[Bobby then stood up and hugged Lynn Sr. as the patriarch of Loud family hugged back. Lori watched the scene as a smile formed on her face. Seeing her boyfriend so happy over his new mug made her happy as well.]

[Just then, Ronnie Anne walked over to Lori holding one more gift.]

Ronnie Anne: "Here...I got this while we were at the mall. Lincoln helped me pick it out."

[Lori chuckled and put her hand on the Latina's head.]

Lori: "Took you long enough."

[Ronnie Anne handed her brother's girlfriend the gift and Lori gladly accepted it. She opened it and gasped when she saw a small baby blue shirt with a picture of a cutesy bumblebee on the front of it. Lori was extremely happy at this gift and hugged it to her chest. Bobby broke free from Lynn Sr.'s hug and walked back to his girlfriend.]

Lori: "Oh my God! This is literally the best thing you've ever given me! Thank you so much, Ronnie Anne!"

[After taking a good look at the shirt, Bobby smiled at his little sister.]

Bobby: "I couldn't agree more! You really know what our little Bumblebee wants, don't you?"

[Ronnie Anne blushed and rubbed the back of her neck.]

Ronnie Anne: "It's the least I could do for what I did. Plus, you did bail me out at the mall when I didn't need to be."

[Bobby responded by rubbing his little sister's head while chuckling. Lori then looked at her family and smiled warmly at them.]

Lori: "Thank you all so much! I know that Bobby and I will be living further away, but one thing's for sure..."

[Lori rubbed her baby bump as she kept her gaze at her family. Bobby then put her hands on Lori's shoulders before she continued.]

Lori: "...our baby will literally have the best aunts, uncle, and grandparents in the whole world."

[And with that, Lori was embraced by her entire family and Ronnie Anne.]

Ruth: "What are we, chopped liver?"

Albert: "Yeah! Let Ruthie and I join in as well, why don't ya?"

[With that, Albert and Ruth joined in the embrace. Ronnie Anne then broke free from said embrace and spoke to her brother.]

Ronnie Anne: "Bobby?"

Bobby: "Yeah, sis?"

Ronnie Anne: "There's something I need to tell you...and the rest."

[Everyone looked at Ronnie Anne as she cleared her throat.]

Ronnie Anne: "Everyone...I have something to say... I know this might be a bit...extreme, but... After careful consideration...I've decided that...I want to stay with the Louds."

[At that moment, everyone stared at Ronnie Anne in surprise. Bobby looked like he was in a catatonic state before Lori looked at him with concern.]

Lori: "Bobby? Boo-Boo Bear?"

[Bobby said nothing as Lori waved her hand in front of him. Ronnie Anne was increasingly worried at her brother's silence. All he could do was utter some words.]

Bobby: "Excuse me, everyone... I think...I need a moment alone..."

[With that, Bobby walked out the front door, much to everyone's concern. Ronnie Anne sighed and put her hands in her pockets.]

Ronnie Anne: "I'll be right back."

[With that, Ronnie Anne followed her brother through the front door and found him sitting on the porch staring at the ground. She looked over at her brother and spoke.]

Ronnie Anne: "Bobby?"

[All Bobby could do was sigh depressingly. Ronnie Anne then sat next to him.]

Ronnie Anne: "Can't you just say something to me?"

[Finally, Bobby managed to speak while still staring at nothing.]

Bobby: "I don't want to lose you again. I just can't."

Ronnie Anne: "What?"

[Bobby turned his head to look at his sister with tears in his eyes.]

Bobby: "I don't want to lose you again... What happened back in Fernville was... I don't want you to be hurt again."

[Ronnie Anne looked down, knowing full well what Bobby meant. Her experience at Fernville was traumatizing for her as well, but she wanted to forget it even happened. She then shrugged it off and put her hand on her brother's knee.]

Ronnie Anne: "Bobby... What happened back in Fernville was really hard for both of us... Something that I wouldn't dream of reliving... But Lincoln was the one who helped us when we were in danger, and he practically knows how to take care of his family. Besides, after talking to him at the park, I have to help him keep this house from turning into a pile of rubble."

[Bobby started to crack a smile when he heard what his sister said.]

Bobby: "I understand where you're coming from... But...are you sure that you can you handle this much responsibility?"

Ronnie Anne: "Of course I can... I took care of you and mama for about three years. Plus, I know that Lori will be safe with you in your new home. I'm sorry this wasn't the decision you were looking for, but..."

[Before Ronnie Anne could continue speaking, Bobby pulled her into a hug. He was quite sad to leave his sister behind, but at the same time, he remembered about the pact he made with Lincoln last month.]

Bobby: "It's okay, Nie-nie. I think you've make the right choice."

[Bobby had finished the hug and wiped his eyes.]

Ronnie Anne: "You do?"

Bobby: "Yes... You're my sister, Ronnie Anne...and I'm going to miss you something awful. I don't want my family to be separated, but if you want to stay with the Louds...then I respect your decision. I'm just glad that I trust them with you."

[With that, Bobby embraced Ronnie Anne again and she gladly returned it.]

Ronnie Anne: "Thank you, Bobby. You're the best."

Bobby: "You're welcome, Nie-nie."

[The Loud family watched the whole scene and smiled at one another while Ruth noticed a tear falling down Albert's eye.]

Ruth: "Are you cryin', Al?"

Albert: "Nah, I just got a little somethin' in my eye. You know an old soldier never cries."

[Bobby and Ronnie Anne heard Ruth and Albert talking to each other and turned to look at them with smiles on their faces.]

Bobby: "It's okay, everyone! Ronnie Anne and I came to an agreement."

Ronnie Anne: "Yeah... I'm still going to stay with you guys... If that's okay with you."

Rita: "Of course it is, Ronnie Anne."

[Rita decided to speak up.]

Lynn Sr.: "Now, what do you say we get back to the party?"

[Bobby and Ronnie Anne smiled at each other before heading back inside the house. As soon as the Santiagos got inside, Lincoln lifted his fist.]

Lincoln: "I'm proud of you, Bro! You really know what Ronnie Anne wants!"

Bobby: "I wouldn't want it any other way, Bro!"

[With that, the two boys did their bro handshake. While this was happening, Lori and Ronnie Anne looked at each other before the latter sighed in annoyance.]

Ronnie Anne: "Here they go again with their bro-pact, or something like that."

Lori: "You know what, Ronnie Anne. Why not do what they're doing and make our own sister pact."

Ronnie Anne: "But, we're not sisters. At least we're not related."

Lori: "But since you're going to be staying with my family, I'm going to make you an honorary sister of the Louds. So, come on!"

[With that, Lori took Ronnie Anne's hand and guided her to Lori and Leni's room. After about five minutes, Lori came back downstairs where everyone was still partying.]

Lori: "Girls, gather round! I have an announcement to make!"

[Lori then gathers her other sisters and brother around Ronnie Anne.]

Lori: "Ronnie Anne...as former leader of the Loud sisters...and brother, of course. I hereby make a pact with you, as our newest addition to the Loud family. Even when I'm far away from home. you will always be the sister we never had... Welcome to our family, Ronnie Anne."

[The rest of the Loud sisters all group hugged Ronnie Anne, welcoming her as their new honorary sister.]

Leni: "Hooray! We have a new sister!"

Luna: "Welcome to the clan, Ronnie Anne!"

Luan: "We in-SISTER you be part of our family! (laughs) Get it?"

Ronnie Anne: "Too soon, Luan."

Lynn: "Hope you can keep up with me, Runny Anne!"

Lucy: "As one sister goes, another one comes. We welcome you with open arms, Ronnie Anne."

Lola: "We're so happy now that you're a part of us, big sister!"

Lana: "Same here, R.A.!"

Lisa: "If you ever need help or advice, we will always be there for you, Ronalda Andrea."

Lily: "Nie-Nie."

Ronnie Anne: "Thanks, girls. Especially you, Lori! I promise to be the best sister you ever had!"

[After Lori, Ronnie Anne, and the rest of the Loud sister's made their pact, they all went back to partying.]

Later, at 4:00 P.M...

[The party was over and the guests were ready to leave the house.]

Lori: "Bye, Carol! I'll see you again at school!"

Carol: "You too! Thanks for inviting me to your shower! And I hope that you and Bobby do well living together!"

[Carol then waved goodbye to Lori as she went back home.]

Chaz: "Awesome baby shower, Leni."

Leni: "What can I say? I know how to prepare a surprise."

[With that, Leni kissed Chaz on the cheek before the chubby teen walked out of the house with a smile on his face.]

Leni: "Bye, Chazzy!"

[Sam and her band mates then said their goodbyes to Luna.]

Luna: "Thanks for the help, guys."

Sam: "It was our pleasure, Lunes."

[Sam then gave Luna a hug before following her bandmates out of the house and back to their own homes.]

Luna: "See ya in the new year, dudes!"

[Mr. Grouse was the next person to leave the house. As he approached the front door, Lynn Sr. spoke to him.]

Lynn Sr.: "So, Mr. Grouse... Is there anything you want to say?"

Mr. Grouse: "Yes, uh... I'm quite satisfied with the food. Though the next time you invite me to one of your shindigs, I'd expect twenty trays of lasagna."

Lynn Sr.: "Of course, Mr. Grouse."

[As Mr. Grouse was a few feet away from the house, he stopped and turned around to look at Lynn Sr..]

Mr. Grouse: "Oh, and Loud?! I almost forgot one thing!"

[Lynn Sr. looked at the old man, wondering what he was going to say. Mr. Grouse then gave Lynn Sr. a smirk.]

Mr. Grouse: "You're gonna make one hell of a grandfather... You know that?"

[Lynn Sr. smiled when Mr. Grouse said those words. The old man smirked as he continued walking back to his house.]

[Just then, Clyde walked out of the house with Haiku by his side, and his fathers following him.]

Clyde: "Thank you for inviting me to Lori's baby shower, Lincoln."

Lincoln: "You're welcome, Clyde. I'm glad you've kept your cool through this whole thing."

Clyde: "Yep. Now I better take Haiku back to her house. You take care of yourselves."

[With that, Clyde and Haiku got into the McBride's minivan and they drove away.]

[Once everyone else had left, Albert and Ruth were last. The navy veteran walked out of the house while pushing Ruth on the wheelbarrow.]

Albert: "I gotta tell ya, sweetheart! Your Leni sure knows how to make a surprise party!"

Rita: "Dad! I thought you already knew that since she did the same on my birthday last year."

Ruth: "She's right, you know, Al. I was there."

[Albert chuckled.]

Albert: "Oh, right. How can I forget."

[With that, Albert pushed his sister to her car and helping her to the driver's seat. Albert then walked to the side of the car and got in before Ruth started the engine. Of course, Albert had one more thing to say to Lori.]

Albert: "Oh, and Lori?! Don't forget to bring the little whippersnapper over for a visit some time! I'd really love to meet him!"

Lori: "I'll keep that in mind!"

[After that, Ruth drove with her brother to Sunset Canyon to drop him off while everyone waved goodbye.]

Thirty minutes later...

[Bobby and Ronnie Anne were in Lori and Leni's room packing some boxes with Lori's stuff whilst Lori sat on her bed comforting Leni.]

Bobby: "I can't believe it's happening so soon."

Ronnie Anne: "You mean you moving out, or moving in with Lori."

Bobby: "I mean both, Ronnie Anne. I thought that would happen after Lori and I got engaged."

Ronnie Anne: "Well, maybe something like that will happen someday...if you're ready."

[Bobby thought for a moment as he pictured himself and Lori getting married sometime in the future... Living their life with their son and raising him until he turns eighteen years of age. Bobby then snapped out of his thoughts and spoke to Ronnie Anne again.]

Bobby: "I guess only time will tell. By the way, did I ever tell you about that guy who ran the sleigh ride at the winter festival?"

Ronnie Anne: "Can't say that I have."

Bobby: "Well, it turns out that he's the manager at the apartment complex that Lori and I are moving to."

Ronnie Anne: "Really? So why does he dress up as one of Santa's helpers?"

Bobby: "I guess it was just a part time job. But he quit after that whole fiasco with the stink bombs."

Ronnie Anne: "Okay! Let's not bring that up again!"

Bobby: "Sorry about that. Anyway, the guy was nice enough to let us sign the lease and gave us the key to our apartment."

Ronnie Anne: "Good for him. So, what's his name?"

Bobby: "Nathan Ozman. His sister's the landlady of the complex."

Ronnie Anne: "Alright."

Bobby: "Alright, enough talk! We need to get moving if Lori and I are to make it there by 6:00 P.M.. Mr. Ozman and his sister are planning on watching the New Year's festivities tonight."

[As the Santiago siblings were still packing, Lori let Leni cry on her baby bump.]

Lori: "There, there, Leni."

Leni: "I don't know if I'm ready for this. The last time you moved out, it has been, like, a disaster!"

Lori: "I know, but this time, it'll be different... I promise."

[Leni sniffled as she looked up at her sister.]

Leni: "Really?"

Lori: "I'm positive, Leni. There is no way we'll have some scumbag hovering over us like last time."

Leni: "How can you be so sure?"

Lori: "From what Bobby told me, the manager, Mr. Ozman is a nice person. He and Bobby talked about the plan during lunch when they first met."

Leni: "Okay... I guess I feel a little better... But I'm still sad that you're going away."

Lori: "I know, but Bobby and I want to start our own life now that we have a baby on the way. By the way, I hope that you, Luna and Ronnie Anne can handle the others."

Leni: "I'll do my best, Lori."

Bobby: "Babe? How many mobile devices should we pack?"

Lori: "Maybe just half of them. Ronnie Anne can use the rest."

Ronnie Anne: "You mean...?"

Lori: "Yep. We decided to leave you with half of my devices so you can stay in contact with us."

Ronnie Anne: "Thanks, you guys. I could use some of those."

[Once all the boxes were packed, Bobby and Ronnie Anne started moving them to the SUV with some help from Lynn, Lincoln and their father. Luna and Luan also started moving Lori's golf bags to the SUV as well. Since Lynn had been doing a lot of exercise, she was able to move faster with each box she carried to the SUV. At one point, Lincoln and Ronnie Anne decided to rest for a bit. As they did, Lincoln spoke to Ronnie Anne.]

Lincoln: "So how are things gonna be now that you'll be helping around the house."

Ronnie Anne: "It's no problem, Lame-O. I've taken care of Bobby and my mother years before, so I'm sure I can handle nine siblings."

Lincoln: "Right... Just wanted to make sure."

[As soon as the last box was in the SUV, Lori and Bobby were ready to move out. And as the sun was starting to set, the family had gathered outside to say their goodbyes to the oldest Loud sibling and her beloved.]

Lori: "Well, everyone. I guess this is goodbye. I am literally going to miss you all so much."

[Lori looked at her parents.]

Lori: "Mom and Dad, you did your best in raising me to become the woman I am now. Thank you very much."

[Lori wrapped her arms around her mother and she gladly accepted.]

Rita: "You're going to be a great mother, sweetheart...maybe even better than us."

[Lori and Rita then broke their hug as Lynn Sr. started tearing up.]

Lynn Sr.: "Exactly. For the past seven months, you've been preparing yourself for motherhood ever since you got pregnant at your age. I know your mother and weren't exactly parents of the year, but..."

[Lynn Sr. started bawling in tears as his wife did her best to comfort him. Lori started to tear up herself, but quickly got her bearings and wiped her eyes before embracing her father.]

Lori: "Don't worry about me, Daddy. Bobby and I will always come and visit you from time to time. We'll even give you a call from time to time."

[Lynn Sr. returned the hug as he spoke again with his voice breaking.]

Lynn Sr.: "I know you will, baby. You're a woman now...and a woman should..."

[Lynn Sr. couldn't speak any further and kept sobbing until he was out of tears. Once he calmed down, he wiped his eyes and eased on the hugging.]

Lynn Sr.: "Sorry... I'm getting all emotional again, aren't I?"

Lori: "That's okay, Dad. That's just you being you."

[Lynn Sr. nodded while Lori turned to Leni, who was on the verge of tears herself. Lori then hugged her sister and let her cry on her shoulder.]

Lori: "Don't cry, Leni. You know we aren't moving very far away."

Leni: "But...we're still gonna miss you."

Lori: "I'll miss you too. You're in charge of our siblings now... Just try not to act out like last time."

[Leni let out a sniffle.]

Leni: "I'll try not to, Lori... Ronnie Anne said that she'll help."

Lori: "I know she will... She's a tough girl."

[After Lori broke from Leni's embrace, she turned to the rocker and hugged her as well.]

Lori: "Luna...you're gonna be helping Leni and Ronnie Anne run things while I'm gone. Can I trust you with that responsibility?"

Luna: "Don't worry too much, Lori. The dude and dudettes are in good hands."

Lori: "I know... You've been a good sister to everyone in the past, so I guess that didn't need to be said. I'm gonna miss you a lot."

[Luna's voice started breaking as she hugged her older sister.]

Luna: "Don't you forget about me, Sis. In fact, don't forget about any of us."

[Lori returned the hug as Luna started getting tears in her eyes.]

Lori: "I won't, Luna. You guys are literally my family."

[As Luna kept hugging her older sister, she wiped a tear from her eye.]

Luna: "Is it much too late for goodbyes?"

[When Lori had finished hugging Luna, she turned to the comedienne right next to her.]

Lori: "Luan...you really know how to make people laugh. In fact, you know how to appeal to children... I just hope you can appeal to mine as well."

Luan: "Don't worry about me, Lori. I'll be entertaining at your son's birthday every year... Free of charge, of course. And I'll be sure to change my theme when he turns thirteen."

[Lori then hugged Luan tightly.]

Lori: "That means a whole lot... I'm really going to miss you."

Luan: "I'd say I'd find this moment rather...moving. Get it? Moving?"

[Luan laughed at first but then started tearing up as she hugged back.]

Luan: "But seriously... Anything for my family."

[When Lori was done, she then looked at Lynn.]

Lori: "I'll miss you, Lynn. You just keep on winning like the champion you are."

[Lynn hugged Lori's legs with all her strength.]

Lynn: "C'mon, Lori. You know me. I'm stronger than that."

[A tear started leaking out of Lynn's eye before she quickly wiped it away.]

Lori: "Are you crying, Lynn?"

Lynn: "No... I just...got a little something in my eye. That's all."

[After Lynn was finished, Lori walked over to Lucy.]

Lori: "Goodbye, Lucy... I know you'll be a great poet someday."

[Lucy held on to Lori's legs for about ten seconds as mascara-like tears came down her face. Even though her eyes could not be seen through her hair.]

Lucy: "This house won't be the same without you. I know the bitter sadness it will bring, but if there's a time for one of us to move on, who am I to judge?"

[When Lucy was done, Lori looked down at the twins. Lola was holding a box of tissues and had mascara running down her face like Lucy.]

Lori: "Lana, Lola, I want you two to behave yourselves for Mom and Dad, you hear me?"

[The twins hugged Lori's legs and cried on them while she patted their heads.]

Lana: "We're...really gonna miss you, Lori!"

Lola: "My thoughts exactly!"

[When the twins were finished, Lori walked over to her genius sister.]

Lori: "Goodbye, Lisa. Keep working on your studies and I know you'll achieve well."

Lisa: "Normally, I don't care much for... Awwww you know the rest!"

[Lisa then sobbed heavy and hugged her sister's leg until she was fresh out of tears.]

Lisa: "Please take good care of my nephew... And take care of Jill as well."

Lori: "Don't worry about me, Lise."

[Lori then walked back over to her mother and Lily before giving the toddler a kiss on her forehead.]

Lori: "You be a good girl, Lily. I'm gonna miss you very much."

Lily: "Bye-bye, Lowee. Wuv you."

[Finally, Lori turned to her one and only brother and put her hands on his shoulders.]

Lori: "And Lincoln...I know there were times that I could get on your nerves and...vice versa, but you are literally the best brother I could ever have...and the only brother I could ever have. I'm literally going to miss you most of all."

[Lori's started to water as she hugged Lincoln, who started getting teary-eyed himself.]

Lincoln: "That's all I wanted to hear, Lori. Things won't be the same without you here."

[Lincoln wrapped his arms around his eldest sister's waist and cried on her tummy.]

Lincoln: "You'll...take good care of...B-Bobby and the baby...won't you?"

[Lori's eyes started tearing up again before she spoke up.]

Lori: "I promise, Lincoln. I won't let Bobby, or my baby get in harm's way ever again... You just worry about taking care of Ronnie Anne and...our sisters...for me..."

[Finally, Lori couldn't hold her tears back any longer and let them flow as she held her brother tightly.]

Lincoln: "I...will..."

[As Lincoln kept weeping, he could feel the baby kicking in his sister's stomach. Ronnie Anne then dragged the boy away from his sister and let him cry on her hoodie.]

Ronnie Anne: "Well, I guess this is it. Thanks for being there for me, Lori."

[Lori had stopped crying and wiped her eyes before looking at Ronnie Anne.]

Lori: "You're welcome, Ronnie Anne. Promise me that you'll take good care of Lincoln, will you?"

[Ronnie Anne gave her brother's girlfriend a small smile before saying what she always said.]

Ronnie Anne: "Literally."

[Lori turned around, wobbled over to the SUV and got in the driver's seat, waiting for her boyfriend to finish his goodbyes. When Lincoln was done crying, he wiped his eyes and turned to look up at Bobby.]

Lincoln: "You take good care of Lori for me, Bobby. I know that she will need to depend on you at this point."

Bobby: "You do the same for mine, Lincoln... I know I've said this before but I'll say it again...you're a great bro...and I know that you'll be a great uncle too. You'll remember our promise, won't you?"

Lincoln: "You know it, big bro. I'm not gonna let Ronnie Anne be in harm's way ever again."

Bobby: "Bros for life?"

Lincoln: "Bros for life."

[Lincoln did his bro handshake with Bobby until Lynn Sr. walked up next to the teen.]

Lynn Sr.: "Now, you take great care of my daughter, you hear me? I know that she'll be very happy in your company... My...little..."

[Lynn Sr.'s voices started to break again before it turned into sobbing. The family man pulling Bobby into a hug prompting the Latino to do the same.]

Bobby: "Don't worry, Mr. Loud. She and the baby are in safe hands."

[Rita pried her husband off of Bobby and put her hands on the teen's shoulder.]

Rita: "You're a good man, Bobby. And you'll be a great father as well. You'll always be a part of our family no matter what."

Bobby: "Thanks, Mrs. Loud."

[At that moment, Ronnie Anne looked up at Bobby, who walked over to his sister and kneeled down to her level.]

Bobby: "Ronnie Anne...you be a good girl for the Louds. My family isn't really gonna be complete without you... But, no matter what happens, you'll always be my little Nie-nie. I love you very much."

[With that, Bobby gave his sister one last hug and was about ready to cry. Ronnie Anne gladly returned the hug as one of her eyes started to leak.]

Ronnie Anne: "I'm gonna miss you a lot, Bobby. You're the best dang hermano I can ever have...and I love you too."

[Just then, Lori honked the horn on the SUV and called out to her boyfriend.]

Lori: "Come on, Bobby! We only have a couple hours left!"

Bobby: "Coming, Babe!"

[Bobby and Ronnie Anne finally broke free from their embrace before the Latino joined his girlfriend in their SUV. Lori then started up the engine and started backing out of the driveway.]

Lori: "Goodbye, everyone! I literally love you all!"

Bobby: "Adios, Casa Loud! Thank you for everything!"

Lynn Sr.: "Good-bye, Lori! You too, Bobby!"

Rita: "Take good care of yourselves! And come back and visit us anytime!"

Leni: "We totes love you both!"

Luna: "Hey-hey-hey, Good-bye!"

Luan: "Happy trails!"

Lynn: "You guys show this world what you're made of!"

Lucy: "May the spirits of luck and fortune always be by your side."

Lana: "Good luck out there!"

Lola: "We hope you two will live happily ever after!"

Lisa: "Godspeed, eldest sister! You too, Roberto!"

Lily: "Bye bye!"

Lincoln: "Good-bye, Lori! We miss you already!"

Ronnie Anne: "The same goes for you, Bobby! We know you and Lori will make great parents."

[Lincoln and Ronnie Anne held hands as they and the Loud family waved goodbye to Lori and Bobby while the two teens drove off into the distance.]

Lynn Sr.: "Would you look at that, hon..."

Rita: "I know... Our first born child...all grown up now."

Luna: "There she goes again...on her own."

[As soon as the SUV was out of sight, the Loud family and Ronnie Anne started to walk back into the house. However, Lincoln spoke up.]

Lincoln: "You guys head inside. I just need a moment to think."

Rita: "Of course, honey. Just don't take too long, okay?"

[Lincoln nodded before the rest of his family and Ronnie Anne headed back into the house. Lincoln was now alone with his thoughts before the white-haired boy turned around to look at the readers.]

[The family looked at each other, but said nothing as they and Ronnie Anne headed back into the house. Lincoln then turned his head to look at the readers.]

Lincoln: "Welp... Looks like the time has finally come. The first bird of the family has officially left the nest. It was inevitable, sure. But, I don't think anyone was expecting it to happen so soon. I don't know how Leni and Luna are gonna being in charge of us, but I got a feeling that they'll manage. Also, with Ronnie Anne a part of the family now, I guess not all is lost. I guess we'll have to see where this all goes."

Rita: "Lincoln! Come inside before you catch a cold!"

Lincoln: "Coming, Mom!"

[Lincoln put his hands in his pockets, turned around, and started heading back into the house. As soon as his hand was at the front door, he turned his head to look at the readers again.]

Lincoln: "But, one thing's for sure... When the new year starts, it's going to be a whole new beginning for all of us."

[With that, Lincoln put his hands in his pockets and headed back into his house. There was no doubt in his mind that things were gonna be different in the Loud house.]

Meanwhile...

[After driving for about fifteen minutes, Lori and Bobby had arrived at Carlisle Park Apartments.]

Bobby: "So...what do you think?"

Lori: "It's literally just as amazing as advertised."

Bobby: "Isn't it, though?"

[The couple got out of their car and walked into the main building before they approached the manager. He appeared to be a stout man in his early fifties who wore square glasses. He was sitting at his desk reading a magazine when he noticed the young couple greeting him. He put down his magazine and greeted them back.]

Manager: "Oh, hey! You guys got here just in time!"

[The manager extended his hand to Lori and she gladly took it.]

Manager: "Well, it's nice to see you guys again! Welcome to Carlisle Park Apartments! I'm Nate Ozman, and I run this place...sorta."

Lori: "I know who you are. Bobby told me you were the elf at the Winter Festival."

[Nate looked away and rubbed the back of his neck.]

Nate: "Well...that job wasn't really the best. They didn't really pay me very much, so I think whoever dropped those balloons on me did me a small favor. Don't worry about it, I got several other part time jobs."

[Bobby then spoke softly into his girlfriend's ear.]

Bobby: "Sounds kinda like me."

[Lori let out a small giggle.]

[Just then, a female voice came from the room behind Nate.]

"Nathan! Who do we have this time?!"

Nate: "It's just the new neighbors, Mirah!"

Mirah: "You don't say? Well, then we better start making them feel welcome! Bring them over here and we'll talk!"

Nate: "Okay!"

[The man then looked back at the couple.]

Nate: "Excuse me... That's just my sister... She's the one in charge while I collect the debts... I mean, you know how it is with siblings, right?"

Lori: "Don't I know it... I just came from a household with ten."

[Nate chuckled when he heard what Lori just said.]

Nate: "Christ! That many?"

Mirah: "Come on, Nate! Chop chop!"

Nate: "In a minute, okay?!"

[Nelson turned back to look at Lori with a smile.]

Nate: "How about you two meet me in the back room and we'll talk about your payment plan."

[Lori nodded before she and Bobby followed the man to his room. When they arrived, they saw a woman who was around the same age as Nelson. She was almost as stout as him, and wore a green muumuu with red roses painted on it.]

Nate: "Here I am, Mi... These are the new renters I told you about... Bobby and Lori...this is my sister, Mirah...the one who REALLY runs this place."

Lori: "Glad to meet you, Miss Mirah."

Mirah: "Hello there!"

[It was at that very moment that Mirah noticed Lori's baby bump.]

Mirah: "Ohhhh! And they're expecting too!"

Lori: "Awww, thank you... But, wait... You're not gonna question how old we are?"

Mirah: "Oh, come on! You couldn't help it. What disgusts me more than that is people who have such a backwards attitude towards those being mothers at a young age."

Lori: "I know... Bobby and I kept getting stares when we visited my mother's doctor."

Mirah: "Well, as long as you keep your cool and don't let those bitches get to you, you'll do just fine."

Bobby: "Thanks, Ma'am."

Nate: "She's got a bit of a soft spot for babies."

Mirah: "Hey! No need to rub it in, Nate! A mother is a mother, is she not?"

[Nate chuckled before speaking to Bobby and Lori again.]

Nate: "Why don't I just show you guys to your new apartment, huh?"

Bobby: "That would be nice."

Lori: "Literally."

[Nate led the couple upstairs until they approached their apartment number 16. They walked in and Nate showed them around.]

Nate: "So...this is your home. There's the living room and the kitchen. Two bedrooms. One for you and daddy...the other for the baby."

[When they went in their room, Bobby and Lori smiled as they saw that it had a queen-sized bed for the couple to share.]

[Finally, the tour was over. Bobby and Lori stood in the living room while Nate spoke to them.]

Nate: "So, what do you think of this place?"

Lori: "I think it's literally perfect... Right, Boo-Boo Bear?"

Bobby: "Oh, yes! I think our little bumblebee's gonna feel right at home here."

[Nate looked at Bobby confusingly until Lori spoke up.]

Lori: "That's our baby's nickname."

Nate: "Oh, of course. Well, I better get back to my zone. Mirah and I can't miss the ball dropping. I hope you guys will be comfortable in your new home...and have yourselves a Happy New Year."

Lori: "Thank you so much, Mr. Ozman."

Bobby: "Yeah, gracias."

[With that, Nate walked out of the apartment and gave Bobby and Lori a peace sign with his fingers before shutting the door. The teen couple then looked at each other and smiled.]

Bobby: "I gotta say, Babe...this place already feels like home."

Lori: "Not quite yet, Bobby. We got work to do."

[Bobby gave his girlfriend a playful smirk.]

Bobby: "And by 'we' you mean 'me', right? But yeah, there's a lot of work to be done here."

[A few minutes later, Bobby got to work unloading every box from the SUV and moving it into the apartment. It took about thirty minutes for the Latino to make one trip per box from the car to his new home, but given his experience moving boxes from his jobs at the grocery store and department store, he didn't care. He wanted to have all of his and Lori's belongings in their new home.]

[Once the last box was moved in, Bobby unpacked every single one before he and Lori decided what should go where. Bobby did all the work while Lori relaxed on the couch reading a magazine. All of Bobby and Lori's mobile devices were set up in their room and the living room. One baby monitor was placed in Lori and Bobby's room, and another was set up in what was going to be the nursery.]

[Lori's golf bags were stored in the bedroom closet along with her and Bobby's spare clothes. Lori felt like it had been years since she last played a round of golf, but she didn't want to put her baby at risk until it was born.]

[One box contained Jill, who had been dismantled since she wouldn't fit in the SUV if she were still intact. Lisa had assured Bobby and Lori that she'd come by and put Jill back together after New Year's Day had passed.]

[A copy of the Loud family photo was put on a table in the living room. Lori could remember that picture like it was yesterday. Lincoln hated it when he first took the photo, but he later realized how much it showed all his siblings being themselves and decided to keep it. Lori also couldn't forget how Lincoln considered replacing her with Carol when she wanted to back out of his perfect photo.]

[That night, Bobby felt tired from unpacking everything and sat on the couch with his baby mama, arm wrapped lovingly around her..]

Bobby: "So, what do you think?"

Lori: "Well... It's honestly hard to believe that we have our own place."

Bobby: "I know... I did pretty good unpacking, didn't I?"

Lori: "That was just the beginning. We still got a long way to go before this place feels like home..."

Bobby: "Yeah... But, I think we better relax until the festivities are over."

Lori: "You got a point there, Boo-Boo Bear."

[Lori sighed and put both hands on her stomach. She closed her eyes and started to remember the things that led up to where she and Bobby were now.]

Lori: "I know that my family is literally missing me something awful, but I guess that's life. We all have to leave our parents' homes at some point in our lives. I'm sure bumblebee will like it here."

Bobby: "That's true, babe. Though, I think I miss them as well...especially Ronnie Anne. I mean, you did take us into your home when we had nowhere else to go. They were more of a family to us than my own father."

Lori: "Well, yeah... But then I kicked you guys out after that Halloween incident and made you go through all that trouble just so you could be with me again."

Bobby: "Well, I think all that trouble was totally worth it."

Lori: "Then you wanted to sacrifice yourself and Ronnie Anne to your father just so Lincoln would be safe."

Bobby: "I had to... Lincoln was the glue that kept your family together, wasn't he?"

Lori: "I know... He was my responsibility along with the rest of my younger siblings... I just can't believe your father would want to go back on his promise..."

[Lori started to tear up as she thought about what would've happened if Ronnie Anne didn't get in the way. Bobby then brushed his fingers on his girlfriend's blonde hair to calm her down.]

Bobby: "It's okay, Lori... You couldn't have known... None of us could..."

[Lori wiped her eyes and gave her boyfriend a small smile.]

Lori: "Thanks, Bobby. I just hope that Leni and Luna are doing just as well...hopefully even better."

[Bobby put his arm around Lori's waist and smiled.]

Bobby: "I'm sure they'll manage, I mean, you were the one that inspired them to take charge. Plus, Ronnie Anne's a big girl now. She can handle anything. Now what do you say we test out the TV?"

Lori: "That literally sounds like an idea."

[With that, Bobby picked up the remote and turned on the set. After flipping through the channels, they found the one that took place live at Times Square. Lori leaned against her boyfriend as they watched the live celebration.]

[After sitting on the couch for about a couple of hours, the time had come for the ball to drop. After counting down from ten to one, the new year had officially began. Bobby and Lori then looked into each other's eyes and smiled.]

Bobby: "Well... Goodbye, 2017... Hello, 2018."

Lori: "Yeah... Can't believe the new year's already arrived."

[Bobby then leaned forward and gave Lori a kiss on her forehead.]

Bobby: "Think of this as your first kiss of the year."

[Lori blushed and put her hand on her cheek before letting out a small giggle.]

Lori: "Well played. Now it's my turn for a 'first'."

[With that, Lori reached into her pocket and pulled out her cell phone. Then she planted her face next to her boyfriend's and snapped a selfie. The couple then took a good look at the picture.]

Lori: "So... How do we look?"

[Bobby looked at his girlfriend and gave her a smile.]

Bobby: "I think that's a keeper."

[Lori giggled, flattered by her boyfriend's compliment. Then stood up and started walking towards the bathroom.]

Bobby: "Where are you going?"

Lori: "I think I'm gonna try out the shower."

Bobby: "You do that. I'm gonna relax on the bed for a bit. I could use some more rest after moving and unloading all those heavy boxes."

[Lori giggled and looked back at her boyfriend.]

Lori: "Of course...my hard-working stud."

[With that, Bobby followed Lori into the bedroom. Lori walked into the bathroom before shutting the door while Bobby sat on the edge of the bed. Bobby then laid down and started staring up at the ceiling.]

Bobby: I wonder how Ronnie Anne is doing? What are you worried about, Bobby? She's a big girl! She can handle herself. You have your own responsibilities now.

[Bobby kept staring up at the ceiling, happy with how everything turned out.]

[After being lost in thought for about ten minutes, Bobby heard the bathroom door open up. He turned his head and saw his lovely woman with a white towel wrapped around her body and a seductive smile on her face.]

Lori: "Hey, Bobby. Were you thinking about me?"

[Bobby stared at the almost naked blonde, not knowing what to say. After a few minutes he managed to say a couple of words.]

Bobby: "Uhhh...maybe?"

Lori: "I'm glad you think so."

[Lori then started to remove the towel before dropping it to the floor, revealing some baby blue lingerie underneath. Bobby's eyes went wide when he saw the beauty before him. The lingerie's dress was see-through, which revealed Lori's nipples and panties. The blonde beauty was now walking over to Bobby as one of the straps on her outfit was down her shoulder.]

Lori: "How would you like to spend our first night together?"

Bobby: "First night here, or the first night of the year?"

[Lori was now in front of Bobby as she put her finger on his lips.]

Lori: "Both, silly."

[Bobby smirked as he started taking off his shirt, revealing his slightly muscular physique to Lori.]

Bobby: "How can I say no to that?"

[Lori then wrapped her arms around her boyfriend's neck and looked into his eyes.]

Lori: "Maybe because I'm irresistible?"

Bobby: "I guess so."

[With that, Lori leaned forward and started kissing Bobby on the lips, before the Hispanic teen happily joined in. Both teens started battling their tongues for about a minute before they both laid down on the bed where Bobby started lowering the top of Lori's lingerie, leaving her breasts fully exposed. Bobby grabbed both of them and gave them a good squeeze, making his girlfriend moan in ecstacy.]

Lori: "Oh, Bobby!"

Bobby: "I really missed those."

[When Bobby was finished, he leaned forward and started sucking on one of Lori's nipples, causing her to moan again as she wrapped her arms around the Latino's waist. When Bobby was done licking, he moved his hands down to Lori's waist and started lowering her panties as the blonde laid on her back and lifted her legs, allowing Bobby to completely remove the panties. He gave off a smirk as he noticed his girlfriend's clit was a little wet.]

Bobby: "I bet you can't wait for me, can you?"

[Lori shook her head while Bobby started to lean forward and stuck his tongue into the blonde's insides.]

Lori: "Oh my God, Bobby!"

[Bobby held on to Lori's thighs as he kept moving his tongue inside the blonde's pussy until he found the sweet spot. Lori moaned and was digging her fingers into her boyfriend's hair until she found her orgasm. Bobby wiped the juices off his mouth and smiled at Lori, who was breathing heavily.]

Bobby: "Dios mio, I missed your cherry so much!"

[Bobby sat down before lowering his pants and boxers, leaving him completely nude like his girlfriend. Lori can see her boyfriend's manhood erect before crawling on all forwards towards Bobby and flicking his penis.]

Lori: "I haven't seen this thing for quite some time."

Bobby: "Well, lucky for us, I have protection."

[Bobby then pulled out a condom and took it out of it's package before slipping it onto his stiff member.]

[Lori was now on top of Bobby as they started getting ready for the big moment.]

Bobby: "You ready, Babe?"

Lori: "I've been ready, Bobby Boo-Boo Bear."

[With that, Lori slid inside Bobby and both teens felt like they were in Heaven. Bobby grabbed onto Lori's ass cheeks causing the blonde to moan passionately.]

Bobby: "You like that, don't you?!"

Lori: "Oh, yes! YES! Spank my ass and call me Mama! SPANK IT!"

[Bobby obliged and slapped Lori's rear end, making the blonde girl moan again.]

Lori: "Oh! You're so rough, Bobby!"

Bobby: "I guess I can't help myself!"

Lori: "I don't care! Don't ever stop! Do you hear me?!"

[After a few more minutes of passion, both teens moaned loudly as they reached their climax. Lori got off of Bobby and laid right next to him, breathing heavily. The Latino then removed his used condom and threw it away.]

Lori: "I swear, Bobby. You get better at this every time."

[Bobby couldn't answer as he was still in bliss. After a few more seconds, Bobby wrapped his arm around Lori as she cuddled next to him.]

Bobby: "Well... I guess that's one way to start a new year, wouldn't you say?"

Lori: "Literally."

[Lori then had a thought in mind. A thought that could potentially be important for her and Bobby's relationship.]

Lori: "Bobby?"

Bobby: "Yeah, Babe?"

Lori: "I just thought of something... Do you think that after our baby is born..."

Bobby: "Yeah?"

Lori: "And maybe in a few years..."

Bobby: "Where are you going with this?"

Lori: "Do you think we could talk about..."

[Lori was so nervous that she was blushing like crazy.]

Bobby: "Talk about...what exactly?"

[Lori snapped out of her thoughts before giving her boyfriend a look with puppy-dog eyes.]

Lori: "Getting married."

[Bobby's eyes widened with surprise when he heard what his girlfriend had just said.]

Bobby: "M-m-married?"

Lori: "Yeah...when our baby's a bit older... I mean, isn't that something that you want?"

[Lori's idea for marriage made Bobby a little nervous. The thought of marriage was something that Bobby would love, especially with Lori. The problem was that he didn't know how they would do so.]

Bobby: "Well...I get what you're saying, but it would take a lot of work... We only have a short time until we graduate high school... Not to mention we have to prep for college..."

Lori: "Oh..."

[Lori turned away, feeling a little disappointed...until she felt her boyfriend's warm hand on her shoulder.]

Bobby: "But I promise you, Lori... When the time comes, we'll do everything it takes to make it work! Plus, we have our friends and family to help out in case things get too hard."

[Lori giggled before turning to face Bobby again and planting her forehead on his.]

Lori: "Happy New Year, Bobby Boo-Boo Bear."

Bobby: "You too, Lori... Te quiero."

[With that, the two teens went to sleep in their new bed in the place they can call their new home. Bobby and Lori couldn't think of anything better than to finally raise their child together for years to come. It would take only a couple more months before their bundle of joy can finally see the world.]

Meanwhile, in the apartment next door...

[As Bobby and Lori slept together, a certain recently fired detective was sitting on his couch watching TV and drinking beer, but was getting irritated by the constant moaning coming from his new neighbors from earlier.]

Koch: "Stupid, fuckin' teenagers."

[Koch groaned as he walked into his bedroom and slammed the door shut.]

[As Koch was getting ready for bed, the ex-detective began to wonder how he'll be able to pay the rent now that he was out of a job. That was when he came across a photo of him and Castleton at a bar. Castleton was sipping on a glass of scotch while Koch took the photo without caring about his soon to be partner's condition. Koch remembered what happened a month ago when his partner got promoted to police sergeant while he was given the pink slip. Koch was so mad at his partner that he vowed to get back at him for not backing him up... Not that it would've done much anyway...]

[In any case, Koch kept looking at the photo and started seething with fury.]

Koch: "Ian Castleton... You...Stupid, drunk, backstabbing, traitor!"

[Koch threw the photo at the wall, causing the glass and frame to break. Koch then stomped over to the photo and pulled it out of the broken frame.]

Koch: "I brought you into the force, I vouced for you when you acted off, and this is how you repay me?! By getting me kicked out while you get all the glory?!"

[After tearing up the photo and picking up the pieces, he threw them all out the window where they got blown away by the nighttime wind.]

Koch: "I don't know how long it'll take, Cas... Weeks... Months... Maybe even longer... But someday, somehow, and in some way... You're gonna regret the day you took on this case and make me look like a fool!"

[Koch breathed heavily and angrily, vowing to get back at his former partner. The only problem was, he didn't know how... Koch was just too tired and angry to think any more and walked over to his bed, collapsed on it, and went out like a light. He didn't know what he was going to do, but he was going to find a way to get even with his ex-partner even if it meant he had to dig deep.]

Well, I think this might've been my longest chapter yet. But anyway, that about wraps up the second phase of Baby Daddy Bobby. I might be going on hiatus for a while. Maybe until the holidays are over, or by March. But do not fret, this story's not over until I say it's over.

Also, have a Merry Christmas, and a happy New Year. ;)

Boris Yeltsin: I'm glad.

Gamelover41592: Well here it is.

DarthWill3: Rusty fainted at the sight of Lucy's fake blood in "Back in Black". He'd likely pass out if he had a cut.

Damattstinator: No comment.

Ellis97: I think she can keep everyone under control.

Jacksonangelo105: Thank you.

Master Fan Reader: Thanks.

Mike The Red Engine: You're welcome, Mikey.

Hawkeye2006: Thank you.