The tempest outside grows in intensity as the gales blow with an unprecedented force. Logan, with an air of sophistication, gazes upon the weather channel, attentively absorbing every intricate detail of the current and anticipated events. As he peers out the window, a brilliant flash of lightning streaks across the heavens, catching his eye. Little did he expect Carlos, consumed by fear, to suddenly find solace in his lap, unleashing a terrified scream.
"Carlos, what on earth are you doing, perched upon Logan's lap? Disengage yourself this instant," Kendall exclaims.
"The storm outside is utterly petrifying. The lightning only exacerbates the situation, and I fear I can no longer endure it," Carlos confesses, gingerly sliding off Logan's lap.
"Fear not, Carlos. As long as we remain within the confines of this abode, the storm cannot harm us," Logan reassures.
"You speak the truth, my friend. I apologize for seeking refuge in your lap when the lightning illuminated the sky. You are well aware of the unease this weather instills in me," Carlos admits.
"It is far better for you to seek comfort in my presence than to succumb to your fears and potentially injure yourself by tumbling onto the floor, colliding with a table or wall. If I can serve as your safety net, I am honored. You have always been so protective of me, and I should reciprocate that sentiment," Logan declares. "By the way, have you seen Katie recently? We both know her fear of this weather surpasses even yours."
"No, I have not laid eyes upon her in several hours, but I am certain she remains within the confines of our dwelling," Carlos responds, scanning the surroundings for any sign of her.
"She is likely engrossed in the delights of the swirly slide deck," James interjects.
Lightning illuminates the sky once more, causing Katie's piercing screams to echo throughout the luxurious apartment.
"Katie, darling, where are you? Are you on the swirly slide deck? Fear not, for I am on my way," Kendall declares as he gracefully ascends to her location, effortlessly leaping over the wall. There, he discovers his sister huddled in a corner, her knees drawn close to her chest, and her eyes shielded from the terrifying storm.
"Fear not, Katie. I am here," Kendall reassures her in a soothing tone. "You are safe in my presence, as you have always been." With a comforting arm around her, he feels her trembling subside as she finds solace in his embrace. "I understand that facing this fear of storms is challenging, but remember, you are not alone. I, too, harbor a distaste for thunderstorms. Although my fear may not match yours, there is no shame in being afraid."
"I am not ashamed, Kendall. It's something else that troubles me. Something sinister," Katie confesses.
"Would you care to share, my dear?" Kendall inquires.
With a nod, Katie and Kendall descend back to James, Logan, and Carlos.
Taking a deep breath, Katie gazes at her companions. "A storm of this magnitude signifies only one thing. They are approaching."
"Who is coming, Katie?" Logan questions.
"The sky demons," Katie reveals with a shiver.
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Logan gazes at her in astonishment. "Did you mention sky demons?" Logan inquires, ensuring he heard correctly.
"Yes, that's precisely what I said," Katie affirms.
"Who informed you about sky demons?" Logan probes.
"Carlos," Katie responds.
Logan, James, and Kendall regard him with dissatisfaction.
"What? What have I done?" Carlos questions, bewildered by their reaction.
"Why would you disclose something as absurd as that to her?" Kendall demands.
"Do you believe I recently told her this? I didn't. This occurred a long time ago when we resided in Minnesota. We were 12 and she was five. I informed her that sky demons emerge when storms are so severe that lightning strikes. However, I was merely jesting because I didn't want to frighten her. I never anticipated she would remember that," Carlos explains.
"Now your innocent jest has become a significant issue for her," Kendall remarks.
"I apologize. I never anticipated it would cause her so much distress," Carlos admits. "I didn't consider the emotional anguish it would inflict on her over the years."
"That's precisely your issue! You act without thinking! Whatever nonsensical thoughts cross your disorganized and distorted mind, you blurt out!" Kendall scolds.
"Goodness, Kendall, I already apologized. What more do you require from me?" Carlos retorts.
"I want you to exhibit some intelligence for once in your life!" Kendall snaps.
Carlos gasps and dejectedly retreats to his and James' shared bedroom.
Katie punches Kendall in the arm.
"Ouch!" He exclaims, rubbing the spot. "Why did you do that?"
"You're insensitive! You hurt his feelings!" Katie exclaims.
"You could have handled that situation with more finesse, Kendall. It is common knowledge how deeply Carlos cherishes Katie, and he would never intentionally cause her harm. In fact, he has dedicated his entire existence to shielding her from any form of violence or harassment. When he shared his sky demon story with her in her younger years, it was meant to bring laughter and alleviate her fears during storms. Little did he know that the tale would linger and impact her mental well-being even after five years. Your treatment of him was excessively harsh, and it is imperative that you offer him an immediate apology, as he is utterly devastated by your words," Logan expresses with a hint of disappointment.
"You are absolutely right, Logan. I shall go and have a conversation with him," Kendall responds, his voice filled with remorse. He proceeds to make his way towards James and Carlos' room, hoping to find the young Latino. However, Carlos is nowhere to be seen. Kendall's ears catch the sound of weeping emanating from the clothes hamper, prompting him to take a seat on Carlos' bed. "I understand that you may not wish to speak with me at the moment. Therefore, I shall do the talking. I deeply regret my harshness towards you. Your intellect, creativity, and vibrant personality make you the life of every gathering. Your unwavering care and love for Katie are immeasurable, especially considering the length of time you have known her since she was a mere infant. I hope that you will always remain fiercely protective of her, even as she transitions into her teenage years, young adulthood, and beyond. You are akin to a second older brother to her, and I should not have treated you so severely. Please, come out from the confines of the clothes hamper," Kendall implores, his voice filled with sincerity.
Slowly lifting the lid, Carlos responds, "Why would I ever cease to care for my princesà? She is my most cherished little sister in the entire world. I will forever shield her from malevolent individuals and unknown forces, such as menacing aliens and shadow demons."
"Mean aliens and shadow demons? Your mind truly holds a captivating enigma," Kendall remarks, a touch of admiration in his voice. "Are you ready to come out now?"
Carlos replies, attempting to climb out of the clothes hamper, only for it to topple over before he can escape. "Ow!" he exclaims, his chin meeting the floor with a resounding thud.
"Are you feeling well?" Kendall inquires, extending a helping hand to lift him up.
"Yes, I am perfectly fine. And I wholeheartedly forgive you," Carlos responds graciously.
"It is reassuring to hear that. Do you happen to have any suggestions on how we can assist Katie in overcoming her fear of the tempestuous storm outside?" Kendall inquires.
"I do possess a tale that I can share. It is a valuable lesson imparted to me by my esteemed Papi," Carlos reveals.
They make their way back to the opulent living room.
"All is now well, and Carlos has devised a brilliant plan to alleviate your trepidation, Katie," Kendall announces.
"What is your idea, Carlos?" Katie inquires with curiosity.
"I shall narrate a story to you. It is a technique my Papi taught me. When I was a young child, I harbored a fear of the darkness until the age of five. However, my Papi's story provided solace and eradicated my fear entirely. Although I cannot guarantee that this idea will completely eradicate your fear of the storm, it is a promising start," Carlos explains.
"I am eager to give it a try, Carlos," Katie expresses her enthusiasm.
"Excellent! Let us find comfort on the lavish couch," Carlos suggests, leading them all towards it. "Now, when my Papi would tell the story, he would always make me the protagonist and infuse it with humor. So, in this case, you shall be the main character, and the story can revolve around any theme you desire."
"Very well, how do we commence the story?" Katie inquires, ready to embark on this imaginative journey.
"Here's how it goes. In this tale, long ago in a fantastical realm where animals and humans coexisted, a highly advanced and opulent society thrived. They utilized flying cars, hoverboards, and various other innovative gadgets to craft unique experiences together. However, one day, a dark and enigmatic cloud descended upon the once sunny and cheerful skies. This cloud delivered a chilling message to the citizens, claiming dominion over their world and demanding obedience. Panic ensued, leaving everyone at a loss until a courageous and determined young girl stepped forward to challenge the cloud to a battle of wits. If she emerged victorious, the cloud would depart, but if she failed, it would claim her as its eternal prisoner. With a stroke of brilliance, she conjured thoughts of joy and happiness, overwhelming the cloud and forcing it to retreat forever. Grateful for her bravery, the citizens hailed her as their protector, vowing to defend their home against any future threats. And so, the little girl became a symbol of hope and resilience for all. The End. Carlos narrates.
James, Logan, and Kendall exchange uncertain glances in response to the story, while Katie listens intently, captivated by the tale.
"Carlos, that was an incredible story! I absolutely loved it," Katie exclaims. "Thank you for lifting my spirits. I was so engrossed in the narrative that I completely forgot about the storm outside. You truly have a gift for storytelling."
"Thank you, princesà, but Logan is the one with the knack for therapeutic advice and solutions. I wouldn't want to encroach on his territory," Carlos modestly replies.
"You can always share that role with me, buddy. Your story idea was truly ingenious," Logan acknowledges.