A Wish on a Full Moon
I do not own H2O: Just Add Water or any of the characters.
Chapter 76: Pressure Cooker (part 2)
[Meanwhile, near Mako Island, Emma and Rikki swim close to the ocean floor by the reefs and schools of fish. They stop near a reef bed when they spot a patch of coral begin to bloom and sprout flurries, with colorful fishes swimming around them.]
"Wow, it looks almost like those glowing bubbles when you first transformed," Elliot said in amazement, as did everyone else for getting to see something so rare once more. "Yeah, it does, doesn't it? Just smaller," Rikki agreed. "Magic," Mrs. Chatham cheered in excitement. "Sure, looks like it," Max smiled. "I so wish I could see that in person," Cleo sighed in awe. "You're not the only one," Bella said. "Well, you can now. Because the dinner is definitely getting postponed," Don told her.
[They glance at each other and smile then look around at all the coral blooming around them through the water and the schools of fish. The two mermaids smile. Rikki nods behind her and they swim off.]
"That is amazing," Charlotte smiled.
"How are you able to see all of this?" Denman asked. "I don't know. We just can," Emma answered. "After their transformation, it's like their sight was enhanced to where they can see perfectly underwater, day or night. It's been like this since the first day," Lewis explained. "It was the same with you, wasn't it?" Max asked. "We all had the same powers, besides the weather upgrades," Mrs. Chatham said.
[Back inside the Sertori's kitchen, everyone was working together on getting the dinner ready. Charlotte and Cleo were setting the table, Don and Kim were cleaning the dishes, and Annette with a towel over her shoulder was preparing the food to be put in the oven as she walks around the counter by Don.]
Kim: at the sink cleaning while Don dries the dishes. To Annette. "I never thought cooking could actually be fun." Don smiles at her.
"Because you've never actually tried," Cleo commented. "I bet I could do better than you're cooking. By the way, there's no such thing as "well done" when it comes to pancakes!" Kim stuck her tongue out. There is now, Rikki thought. "Then make your own!" Cleo shouted. "I will now that I have someone to teach me," Kim smirked, glancing at Annette. "One episode, just one episode without a fight," Don clasped his hands together, pleading.
Annette: stands next to Kim. "Getting everyone involved is the key." Stirs the batter in a pot. Cleo walks away from the table.
"Sure looks like it," Bella said. "She really has taken over your kitchen. This is exactly the kind of crew she runs in the restaurant," Charlotte said a bit surprised that her mom got it together so quickly.
"There's no 'I' in teamwork," Mrs. Chatham repeated the famous phrase. "Yeah you got great partnership as well. Kim and Don on cleaning duty, and Charlotte and Cleo setting the table. Nothing could go wrong," Ash sarcastically said. "Perhaps I should make a raincheck. But it would be a great bonding experience for them both," Annette mentioned. "I don't see anything wrong with it. We can get along enough to set a table. No harm in that," Cleo spoke up. "You shouldn't worry about us, Kim's at the sink. Everyone knows the danger with her near it," Charlotte teased. "Oh, see? We can get along! Great minds think alike," Cleo laughed.
"Oh, is that a brownie you're making?" Will perked up. "Looks like it," Annette squinted. "Kind of wanting one now," Bella pouted. "Same," a few others agreed.
Kim: grins and turns to Annette. "Cleo isn't doing anything."
"I just walked away," Cleo rolled her eyes. "She was helping me set the table. I'm sure she was going to grab more placemats or utensils, now that there was one more," Charlotte gave a pointed look at Lewis. "I tried to leave. Your mom was the one who dragged me into it," Lewis countered. "Sorry," Annette grimaced.
"Now you're just trying to stir up trouble," Elliot giggled. "That's what little sisters are for," Kim smiled mischievously. "Thank goodness for Elliot then," Emma mumbled. She didn't think she could survive having a little sister.
Cleo: narrows her eyes at Kim as she walks past Lewis who was leaning against the counter with his arms crossed. Behind him, steam rises from a boiling pot. "Someone needs to supervise."
"And that job belongs to Lewis clearly," Zane joked. "Let him keep that job. He's not good at anything else," Rikki said. "I'm good at science," Lewis countered. "How's that waterproof serum working out?" Ash grinned with his hand propping up his chin. "… I'll get back to you on that," Lewis scowled.
"He's very clumsy. Are you sure you want him around a kitchen?" Denman asked. "I'm not that bad," Lewis scoffed. "You've nearly broken several items now since this whole thing started," Emma told him.
Charlotte: walks up to Lewis, smiling. "I could use a little help, Lewis." Walks over to the other side of the kitchen.
"I thought I was helping you," Cleo frowned. "You still can. After the dock incident, I'm surprised my screenself is even allowing him in the kitchen," Charlotte mentioned. "Since when did this turn on me?" Lewis pointed to himself. "Since you walked in that door," Terry chuckled.
Lewis: uncrosses his arms, a bit uncomfortable. Annette walks over to the stove next to him with the bake pan in her hand. "Uh, I think I'd just prefer to uh, … just to watch."
"If you want to watch, then get off my stove," Annette waved him away. "See what I mean?!" Charlotte gestured to her mom. "She's taken over on both ends," Bev chuckled. "Which means, get out of the way, Lewis," Lisa laughed.
Annette: "Oh, you're so cute. Charlotte told me you were shy." Continues stirring the batter. Nods toward her daughter. "Go on, she won't bite." Don walks past them and toward the table.
"Really? What else has she told you?" Lewis asked curiously. "Uh, not much," Annette winced as she saw her daughter glaring at her, eyes wide. "That's a lie," Emma whispered. "We know," Rikki whispered back.
"We don't know that," Ash joked.
Lewis: holds his hands up. "Uh, I think I forgot to wash my hands."
"Not a bad excuse, but a lazy one," Ash mused. "Ew, and they let you in the kitchen?!" Kim gagged in disgust. "You're one of them," Lewis huffed. "You're covered in sweat. You forgot to wash everything," Emma corrected. "Take a shower while you're at it. You probably wreak of fish," Rikki pinched her nose. "Says the actual fish," Lewis deadpanned. "Not in our bathrooms he isn't," Don declared. "Oh, how the tables have turned," Zane laughed.
Lewis: walks over to Cleo who is rummaging through the cabinet and whispers. "Cleo, please –." Clasps his hands together, begging.
Cleo: turns to him. Whispers back. "I don't want to hear it, Lewis." Crosses her arms.
"Look on the bright side. At least there are groceries this time," Sam said with a small smile.
"Come on, Cleo, he's trying," Emma sighed. "I know he is. I wish she would listen," Cleo grumbled, glaring at herself.
"I think you do, actually," Bella said. "Sounds like fear is talking," Max said a bit sad.
Lewis: "You've got to believe me. Nothing is going on." Glances behind him.
"So we've heard. For like the thousandth time," Rikki said in a bored tone. I think after that many times I have to believe him, Cleo thought with a hopeful smile.
"You raised a stubborn one, Don," Neil chuckled. "You're one to talk. Emma can be pretty competitive when she wants something," Don mentioned.
Charlotte: raises an eyebrow at them as she walks over to the counter. "Cleo, can you bring me the flour?" Gives her a forced smile.
"Why'd you ask her? Lewis is right there," Will remarked. "Well, we were supposed to be working as a team. And as I recall, someone mentioned earlier that Lewis was covered in sweat and didn't wash his hands. They're not the only ones who can see that," Charlotte tried not to look at it in disgust.
"Better than stuck in a corner with Sweaty McCartney," Kim teased. "How does this keep bouncing back to me?" Lewis groaned in annoyance.
[Cleo looks over at Charlotte and sighs in frustration. She walks past Lewis and grabs the bowl of flour from behind him. Cleo walks over to Charlotte and just as she was about to hand her the flour, Charlotte turns around and accidentally bumps the bowl.]
Charlotte: "Oh!" The flour tosses up and all over Cleo. Lewis looks at them in shock.
The crowd gasps in shock. "Uh oh," Kim winced. "I told you you might want to rethink your teams," Ash said. "I don't think apologies are going to be helping that anytime soon," Lisa winced. "Definitely made that night ten times worse," Zane hissed.
"Why'd you do that to Cleo?" Elliot asked. "I didn't mean to! Oh gosh, I'm so sorry, Cleo," Charlotte gasped, shocked by the incident. "It's okay, it was an accident. There might have been a lot of tension between us, but I see that you didn't do it on purpose," Cleo gave her a small smile. "Besides, she'd have to see her to do that on purpose," Bella added. "But she asked her to come over," Rikki said. "Yeah, but she didn't know that Cleo would be right behind her," Bella said. "She's right. I could've said something, but I was still being quiet and spiteful," Cleo gestured to the screen.
"Charlotte!" Annette yelled. "It was an accident, mom! There's just too many people in the kitchen," Charlotte said, looking deeply regretful. She couldn't believe she had done that to Cleo. The girl was already having a bad enough time thinking that her dad was seeing her mom, and that little incident did not help improve things at all.
Charlotte: holds her hands up, looking apologetic. "Sorry." Kim laughed to herself, jaw dropped in amusement. Cleo in anger forces the bowl of flour into Charlotte's hand and stomps off toward the stairs.
"It's not funny, Kim. Your sister is clearly upset," Bev scolded her. "It's a little funny," Kim pinched her fingers together, smiling slightly. "Maybe a little," Cleo admitted. "It was hilarious," Rikki burst into laughter, Zane soon joining her then the rest of the teens.
"Kids. I will never understand their humor. They just made a big mess," Harrison sighed. "And in a kitchen no less!" Lisa looked at the scene in horror. "I'm covered from head to shirt in flour and you're worried about the kitchen?" Cleo raised an eyebrow. "I'm sorry, dear. But – but the kitchen," Lisa pouted. "Get used to it Cleo. If my mom sees any room in a house as a mess, it's going to be like this," Emma rolled her eyes.
Lewis: chases after her. "Cleo! Cleo!" By the time he makes it to the living room, Cleo was already halfway up the stairs. He sighs and turns around. Charlotte winces and looks back at her mother who gives her a stern stare. Charlotte turns back around and looks down.
"Run after her, Lewis. Don't stop," Max shook his head. "You should've gone after her," Zane said. "She needs her space. Sometimes she needs time to herself," Lewis reluctantly said. Cleo smiled. He's learning. "Still not the time, Lewis," Emma said. Charlotte held back a sigh. When she's in dismay, he runs for her. But when it's me, he's in another world. More proof that he's still in love with her, she thought.
"Someone's in trouble," Zane winced. "You've seen that look plenty of times to know," Harrison added. "That's either the 'you better go apologize' look, or the 'there was no need for that' look," Kim remarked. The few around her gave her a strange look. "What? I got a mom. I've had that look plenty of times." "In this case, I think it's both," Charlotte grimaced. I really hope I don't get grounded for something that hasn't – won't – happen, she thought.
[Cleo was in her bathroom wiping the flour off her face and clothes with a dry paper towel. She broods in the mirror as she stares at the mess that she got in when someone knocks on the door.]
"That person hasn't," Cleo sighed. "Hasn't what?" Emma asked, confused. "Le - … nevermind," Cleo puffed.
"Wouldn't it be easier to use a wet rag?" Will asked who immediately received a look from everyone. Will was confused until it finally clicked in his head. "Oh, yeah." "You know for someone who's obsessed over mermaids, you aren't the brightest," Bella teased. "It could've happened to anyone. We didn't learn about them until a few days ago, including you," Will shot back. That's what you think, Bella smirked.
Cleo: "Whoever it is, go away!" Continues to wipe the flour away when the door opens. Looks over and sees Charlotte standing in the doorway.
"What are you doing there?" Ash asked. "I have an inkling feeling as to why," Charlotte slowly looked at her mother. "She deserves an apology," Annette crossed her arms. "I know she does, but it was still an accident," Charlotte argued.
"How did you even know where to go?" Kim frowned. "She probably asked like a normal person would," Cleo sarcastically said. "Normal. You're one to talk," Kim scoffed. "Or I knocked on every door until I got an answer," Charlotte added with extra sarcasm. "She could've had to go like any other person would," Lewis pointed out. "Please don't talk about that," Charlotte scrunched her face up in disgust. "What if it was me? It's my bathroom too," Kim argued. "Is there another bathroom?" Sam asked curiously. "With two daughters? You bet there is!" Don chuckled. "There's one downstairs near ou – his – bedroom," Bev stuttered.
Cleo: looks back at the mirror, still brooding. "What do you want?"
Charlotte: "I came to apologize."
"You better," Annette said. "I am, mom," Charlotte rolled her eyes. "By force or choice?" Rikki raised an eyebrow. "I think you know that answer," Charlotte sighed, a bit sad.
Cleo: "Forget it, it's just flour."
Charlotte: shakes her head. "No, not about that. About this dinner thing." Walks in.
"Well come on in," Cleo joked. "I think this is the most civil conversation you two had in this viewing," Max mentioned. "Well now you jinxed it," Denman shook her head.
"Yeah, I probably should apologize for that too. If this future would've happened and I knew who your dad was, I would've given you a heads up," Charlotte explained. "Maybe then I would've known what the dinner was really about," Cleo laughed to herself.
"You were supposed to apologize for the flour incident," Annette crossed her arms.
Charlotte: "I didn't realize Don was your dad. I never would have come if I did." Sits on the tub.
"Yes, you would. You come to these dinners with me all the time," Annette frowned. "But would I still go if it makes Cleo uncomfortable?" Charlotte asked. "It's okay. We know the truth now, and we're somewhat friends. I'd be okay with you coming," Cleo said. "Really?" Charlotte asked a small smile on her face. Cleo nods. "I told you, a good bonding experience for you both," Annette said, eagerly. "Here we go," Kim rolled her eyes. "If that happens, looks like we'll get a new best friend," Rikki joked.
"So, you two met already?" Elliot asked. "Must have," Charlotte said. "But we didn't meet until a few days ago, here," Don pointed to the ground. "It must've been right after the last viewing, but before this one. Maybe within that week if the time frame is right," Lewis rubbed his chin.
Cleo: frowns. "So, you knew about my dad and your mom?"
Charlotte: confused. "Sure. It's no big deal."
"These are two very different conversations," Bella said. "I think you're talking about two different things," Denman held up two fingers. "We are. The only difference is I'm right," Charlotte smiled wide. "I didn't have all the information. A heads up would've been nice, dad," Cleo sighed with an eye roll. "You shouldn't have interrupted me," Don shrugged. "You should've told us sooner," Cleo countered. "It was gonna be a surprise!"
Charlotte: Fiddles with a starfish that was lying on the side of the tub. "She's done this kind of thing before."
Cleo: turns to her and raises an eyebrow. "Oh, really?" Charlotte nods, still confused, and glances to the side.
"Charlotte!" Annette's eyes were wide. "What?" Charlotte was confused just like onscreen. "Do you not realize how that makes me sound?" Annette turned to her with a stern stare. "Mom, what are you – oh my gosh!" the redhead gasps as soon as the phrase repeats in her head. Kim and Zane burst into laughter with Rikki trying her best to hold it in as Emma kept glaring at her. "I can't believe it took you this long to realize," Ash laughed. "I can't believe I said that. I'm so sorry mom!" Charlotte was once again red with embarrassment.
"And the two-way conversation has just taken a sharp turn down the wrong lane," Lewis grimaced. "You make it sound like your mom has done this plenty of times," Will chuckled. "She has but not on dates!" Charlotte shouted. "Cleo, I'm blaming you for this one. You started this whole dating nonsense." "Hey, I'm not the only one. You all thought it too," Cleo pointed a finger at all of them. "Cleo's thought process just got a whole lot worse," Zane said. "It does sound bad," Bev winced. "It's not what it sounds like," Annette said in an annoyed tone.
"But it might be the last," Rikki snickered.
Cleo: whips around back to the mirror and narrows her eyes. "Well, if you don't mind, I want to be alone right now." Goes back to wiping off the flour.
"After that 'confession', she needs to stay and explain more," Emma stated. "I really hope I do," Charlotte pleaded, not wanting to embarrass herself or her mom anymore. "While I would normally agree to your alone time, I really don't think it's a good idea," Lewis shook his head. Cleo really needed to hear what people has to say. All of these assumptions are causing nothing but trouble!
"It must be rough having to do that with a dry towel," Neil commented. "Eh, you get used to it after a while," Rikki shrugged.
Charlotte: leans to the side and hesitates. "Can we talk about Lewis?" Cleo hesitates, lowers the towel.
"Another conversation I don't want to have," Cleo says quietly with a sigh. "You two were going to have to talk about it eventually," Emma gave her an apologetic look. "Especially after that diary stunt," Rikki mumbled.
"That's not the talk we needed," Charlotte groaned in annoyance. She knows she needs to talk to Lewis about it, but with Cleo alone? It would be better to have said person in the conversation as well. Lewis clenched his eyes shut. After the docks, there was no way this was going to go well. Sure, Charlotte didn't know that Cleo was there, but Cleo got the wrong idea of what was happening, just like this so-called date. It's like the entire viewing was nothing but misunderstandings. But Charlotte was right. They really needed to talk.
Charlotte: "I know that you used to go out, but … we've been spending some time together …"
"It wasn't just about us going out. We were best friends, and we still are. He's always going to be my best friend, whether we date or not," Cleo explained. "And now you're falling for him," Cleo whispered to herself, or so she thought. "So are you," Charlotte gave her a sad expression. And Lewis is falling for her again. And I know I have to do the right thing, which sucks, but Lewis wouldn't be happy with me. And that's what hurt. If Lewis didn't like her, then who would?
"This is getting too personal," Lisa felt bad for the girls. Their privacy was being blown without their onscreen selves realizing it. "Honey, we've seen much more private stuff, I don't think it's going to stop for the future either," Neil wrapped an arm around her.
Cleo: raises her eyebrows. "Yeah, I've noticed."
"The docks showed that," Rikki commented. Among other … scenes.
Charlotte: glances down. "So, I was wondering if that was going to be a problem." Raises an eyebrow.
"Why would it be?" Kim asked. "Because she's still in love with him. So, the only person that it is a problem for, is me," Charlotte said quietly and sad, but loud enough for everyone to hear, the latter going wide-eyed at that statement. Why was she bringing this up again? Lewis fought the urge to keep his mouth shut. They couldn't get any privacy onscreen, but they could here. He couldn't wait for this to be over so he could finally speak to them privately.
"Unfortunately, with them being broken up, she does have the right to spend time with him," Sam hesitantly said. Lewis bit his lip. No, we're just friends. Just friends and nothing more. "But they can still hang out even though they broke up, him and Cleo," Bella frowned. "Things are never the same after a breakup. Sometimes they never do go back to normal, not after the past," Max said in a sad tone, Terry nodding his head in agreement. "Cleo and Lewis have proven that wrong though," Bev glanced at Don. And so can we.
Cleo: slowly turns to Charlotte and forces a smile. "Lewis and I are just … friends."
"That hurt so much to say, didn't it?" Rikki tilted her head. Emma smacked her arm. "I can feel the pain from here," Cleo winced as she rubbed her chest. "Sometimes even the lies you say to protect yourself, are the ones that hurt you the most," Mrs. Chatham informed.
"Yeah, but you need to be more than friends," Bella muttered. I want my ship to sail again. "More than just friends. Say it correctly next time," Kim piped up.
Charlotte: grins. "Excellent." Stands up and walks back out. Cleo watches her leave then glances down with a pained expression.
"Told you it would hurt," Rikki crossed her arms. "Will you shut up?" Emma hissed as she slapped her again. "Will you relax? I'm just teasing her. You know I would do anything for my best friends," Rikki told her. But comforting words are not my greatest skill. "It's okay, Rikki. I always know what you mean," Cleo gave her a small smile.
"Were you just wanting her to clarify?" Kim narrowed her eyes. "That is not how you leave the conversation, young lady," Annette frowned. "I guess I just wanted to be sure. But even I know that they aren't, or at least don't want to be," Charlotte frowned as well. It should be me saying that line. Why am I trying to get it out of Cleo?
"Just be honest with her. You shouldn't have to lie, it's only going to make things worse between you two," Mrs. Chatham mentioned. "I wish I was," Cleo said a bit sad, glancing at both Charlotte and Lewis. She's lied to them both, thinking it would protect her, when in the end, she's just hurting herself and them.
[At Emma's house, the two teenagers had just returned from their historical swim through the blooming corals. Her and Rikki walk into her bedroom with big smiles on their face.]
Emma: "That was the most amazing thing I have ever seen!"
"It was," Ash agreed, smiling along with them. "It was beautiful," Charlotte sighed in awe. She really hopes she can get a painting of it. "And I can't wait to see it in person this time," Cleo said, ecstatic. "At least there was a way for us to see it," Sam smiled.
"You just got back?" Lisa asked. "Seems so. We must've went swimming and searching for more after," Emma said. "I'm glad you were enjoying your swim, Em, but we would appreciate it if you will let us know when you're going to be out late," Neil informed. "But it's not even a school night," Emma frowned, confused. "It's still dangerous out there. Who knows what else is in those waters at night?" Lisa told her. "They're just asking you to be careful. The same goes with you, Rikki," Terry warned. "Yes, dad."
Rikki: "Totally. I wish Cleo would have been there." Climbs onto Emma's bed.
Emma: sits down next to her when her phone starts to ring on her nightstand. "Yeah."
"You know why I couldn't," Cleo sighed. "Doesn't mean we don't miss you," Rikki remarked. "You can still go," Don reminded. "I know. It's going to be a long week of waiting for it once we get back," Cleo said a bit impatient.
"Who could be calling this late?" Lisa asked. "Probably Cleo. You know we always talk on the phone even this late at night," Emma told her.
Emma: takes the phone off the holder and answers it, leans against the mattress next to Rikki. "Cleo." Smiles. Her smile slowly fades as Cleo talks on the other line. "What?" Frowns, Rikki shrugs her shoulders, completely confused. "No way."
"Uh oh, somebody knows," Bella sung lightly. "Why didn't you tell them earlier?" Harrison asked. "Because I knew they were out swimming. No point in calling if there was no way for them to answer," Cleo shrugged.
"I would really like to know what she's saying right now," Ash humored. "Oh, I'm sure she's telling them everything, from her point of view," Charlotte grinned. "Great," Cleo huffed.
Emma: whispers to Rikki, both looking concerned. "We've got an emergency." Rikki's shoulders drop with a pout and Emma goes back to listening to Cleo.
"Calling for backup?" Sam chuckled. "This will end well," Lewis sarcastically said.
"You consider this an emergency?" Neil asked. "Anytime one of our friends is in distress or trouble is an emergency," Rikki declared. "It's just a misunderstanding," Don sighed. "She doesn't know that yet. And technically neither do we," Emma said.
[Later at the Sertori household, Annette and the others were marveling over Don's fresh catch from this morning. Don held up bowls of shellfish and platters of shrimp.]
Annette: holds a shellfish up. "These shellfish look superb, Don." Twists it around.
Don: "Caught them myself. On my boat, we only go for the best." Around them, Lewis was gathering bowls and plates while Charlotte and Kim finish setting up the table. "It's all top produce."
"What about the rest of your boats?" Neil asked. "They all do a splendid job. Each one has a certain produce to get. And they always do an astounding job," Don declared. "How many boats do you have?" Terry asked curiously. "Three. There's the Esmeralda, the Shining Pearl, and the Waverider. The Shining Pearl is my favorite," Don answered. "That's because it's the one you main. He hardly ever leaves it," Kim said. "It was my first. My baby," Don looked like he was about to cry. "Now we know where he gets the nicknames from," Rikki mumbled to Emma.
"See? I'm showing off my business," Don announced with a triumphant grin. "Told you this stuff happens at dinners," Charlotte smiled. "Never seen someone so amazed by shellfish before," Max chuckled. "If I'm going to be serving them at my restaurant, they need to be," Annette replied.
[The doorbell rings.]
Lewis: raises his hand. "I'll answer it."
Don: "No, it's best I go." Puts the scallops down.
"Wonder who that could be?" Kim grinned at the girls. "You got there in a nick of time," Denman said a bit surprised. "I live just a few doors down from her," Emma said. "How do you know it's them?" Will asked. "Who else could it be?" Kim scoffed.
Don: "You stay here and keep the girls company." Goes into the kitchen to put the shrimp back.
Charlotte: walks over to Lewis and grins. "Yeah, keep us company, Lewis."
"Great company, dad," Kim scrunched up her face. "I'm not the best at keeping people company if you haven't noticed," Lewis furrowed his brows. "Unless it comes to laughing, mocking, teasing. I could go on," Zane joked. "Yeah, thanks, dad," Cleo said in a deadpanned tone. "Sorry," Don winced.
Annette: "Come on, you two." Gestures to the living room and walks in. Charlotte grabs a reluctant Lewis by the arm and the two walk into the living room.
"What are we gonna do?" Lewis asked. "How should I know?" Charlotte asked. "You're the one dragging me around," Lewis remarked. "We have to listen to my mom," Charlotte retorted. "Oooh, their first friendship fight?" Kim perked up. "It's just a disagreement," Charlotte shook her head. "Don't worry. There will be plenty more where that came from," Rikki mentioned.
[The doorbell rings again and Don walks to it and answers the door. Emma and Rikki walk in.]
Don: "Girls?" Holds his hands up. "Sorry. Cleo's a little busy tonight."
Emma: shakes her head, pleading. "We won't be long, Mr. Sertori."
"She needs us," Rikki said.
"You can always talk to me, sweetheart," Don told her. "I know dad. But this was something I needed to discuss with them. Even though it's a misunderstanding, I can't hurt you like that," Cleo gave him an apologetic look. "It won't hurt me. If you need to talk, I'm always there, no matter what's going on," Don stated.
"Is there enough for eight?" Elliot asked. "Yeah, just no leftovers now," Don frowned.
Annette: to Lewis and Charlotte. "Closer." They move past him and peer into the living room in surprise to find Annette taking a picture of Lewis and Charlotte together.
"Really, mom?" Charlotte asked in annoyance. "Why wouldn't I want to take a photo of my daughter and her friend?" Annette asked. Charlotte bit her lip. Friend. That's going to be repeated so much, isn't it?
"You're going to take a picture of him, looking like that?" Kim raised an eyebrow, arms crossed. "The clothes don't define the person, but his personality does," Mrs. Chatham said. "I don't know about that," Lewis cringed.
Annette: taps a button on her camera and smiles. Don watches as the two girls go further into the living room, frowning. "Oh! This certainly is a memorable evening."
"It certainly is," Will chuckled. "For you," Charlotte muttered. "It's one I want to forget," Cleo glanced away. You're not the only one, Charlotte and Lewis both thought. "It sure is," Kim giggled.
Rikki: "Lewis." They watch as Annette takes pictures of Charlotte and Lewis, with the former having an arm over his shoulder.
"Perfect timing, as always," Ash chuckled.
"Shouldn't it be the other way around?" Will tilted his head. "Only if we're dating, but we're not," Charlotte scoffed, glancing anywhere but at Lewis.
"Gotta admit, when you say an emergency, that's the last thing I expect," Rikki said. "Not really an emergency. Unless it's a teenage problem," Harrison said. "It is, just not a mermaid problem. If it were, it'd be if our secret was about to be exposed," Emma slowly said, trying to prevent herself from breaking her own rule she created. "Bout let it out, didn't you?" Rikki smirked.
Lewis: smiles a little, nervous. "Guys! Hi. We're just, um …" Gestures to Charlotte who keeps smiling at the camera.
"Taking pictures? Cause it's exactly what we're doing," Lewis pointed out. "But it doesn't look right. Not without Cleo or Kim in it either," Bella frowned. "I'm still covered in flour," Cleo raised a finger. "Ew! I'm not getting near that sweaty oaf! I think he's sweating more just from the picture," Kim scrunched up her face in disgust. "Kim!" Bev scolded. "Don't really blame her. I didn't want to be there at all," Lewis shrugged. "Sorry again," Annette winced.
"Running out of excuses, aren't we?" Ash chuckled. "What's there to excuse? We're just taking a picture. That's it," Lewis huffed.
Annette: cuts him off. "Don't they look sweet?" Glances at the girls then back at them. Don smiles as he crosses his arms.
"Sweet as sugar," Sam mumbled sarcastically to herself. "They look more cringe-worthy than sweet. And that's coming from both," Zane commented. "Thanks for the input," Charlotte said in a deadpanned tone. Though she knew he was right. They did look cringey. With her super sweetness act and Lewis obviously being a nervous wreck, it just didn't look 'sweet' as her mom claimed.
"Why are you smiling?" Bev asked. "I guess since he and Cleo were broken up, I thought they were a couple. But I wouldn't be smiling over that, not when I know that my daughter would be hurting," Don frowned.
Emma: "How could you, Lewis?"
Lewis: frowns, confused. "How could I what?"
"How could I not see it?" Lewis groaned in annoyance. "Wow, a geeky scientist, and he can't even figure out what he's doing wrong here," Zane shook his head. "Eh, we knew he was slow. Remember how long it took him to realize Cleo liked him? And she had to tell him," Kim laughed. "Emotions never was his strong suit," Cleo grinned. Meanwhile, Charlotte glanced down at the floor. "You seriously don't know?" Bella raised an eyebrow.
"Friendships going even more down the drain," Mrs. Chatham sighed, slightly concerned.
Rikki: "Come on, let's find Cleo." Glances at Emma then looks at them in disappointment. The two head for the stairs.
Charlotte squirmed in her seat uncomfortably. That look of disappointment wasn't just for Lewis, it was for her too. Perhaps all of them as it seems even Don couldn't figure out what was wrong. She felt bad for Cleo having to go through all this in the future. And for Lewis. He couldn't see that his lack of realization was affecting his friendship with not just Cleo, but all the girls. And it was all her fault for trying to get Lewis's attention. If he didn't settle things with them soon, he could lose them all. And so would she, if she doesn't get her act together.
Annette: to Lewis and Charlotte. "Smile. Here!" Waves her hand at them for their attention. "Oh, that's perfect!" Charlotte smiles brightly, moving closer to Lewis as the latter forces a cringey smile on his face. As soon as the flash goes off, his smile drops as he watches his friends go upstairs.
"It's not really the time for smiling mom," Charlotte spoke softly. "I don't think it is for anyone at this point," Annette frowned at herself, for not seeing the situation clearly. She was no different than Lewis. But even then, Lewis had more hindsight, as he knew Cleo better, his best friend. He knew how this was hurting her and didn't take any action for it.
"No, no it's not," Ash frowned in confusion. Why isn't he doing anything? If he were in Lewis's shoes, he would march up those stairs as soon as the flour incident happened. He just hoped it wouldn't happen again now that they know what happens. "You think that smile was perfect? Then you might need to get your camera checked," Rikki joked. "It's not the time for that either, Rikki," Terry told her gently.
[Upstairs, the three mermaids sat on the bed as Cleo tells them everything that's happened that night.]
Cleo: sad, shakes her head. "I can't go back down there."
"You still haven't gone down?" Will asked. "I was caked in flour, and since I can't get wet without growing a tail, it takes a while to clean it off. Besides, after everything that's happened and what I think is going on with my dad, can you blame me?" Cleo retaliated.
"Take your time, sweetheart. Whenever you're ready, it'll be okay," Don gave her a small smile. "Don't quit, keep fighting! You didn't stop when it came to your job or water, why stop now?" Kim argued. "There's a time to fight, and there's a time to be supportive. If she knew of the situation, I'm sure she would be supportive of her father, just like you," Mrs. Chatham informed her.
Emma: puts a hand on her knee. "You don't have to." Nods. "We'll just say you're not feeling well and wait for them to leave." Cleo frowns but nods and lowers her head.
"I doubt that will work on my dad. Not in that state," Cleo mentioned. "Plus, if mom hears that Cleo's sick, she will make her try every food remedy she knows until she's cured. Trust me, you do not want to be sick near her," Charlotte shuttered. "I do not," Annette said in denial. "Mom, you made me try twenty different soups last time I was sick. And it was just a cough," Charlotte gave her a look. "Dad's not gonna believe that. He knows Cleo wanted to hang out with her friends, and now that they're there, he's not going to believe that she all of a sudden came down with a cold," Kim explained. "How do you know all of this?" Sam asked a bit surprised. "I'm a preteen. I know a few things," Kim smiled innocently. "She's tried it once or twice," Don gave her a stern glare.
"Honey, if you don't want to come downstairs, you don't have to. I know with what's on your mind … it's not easy," Don glanced to the side, avoiding Bev's stare.
"Kind of like the rainy day, huh," Neil crossed his arms and looked at Emma. "We didn't have a choice," Emma reminded. "Telling us was a choice," Lisa added. "Let it go, Em. Cause they're never letting go," Rikki patted her on the shoulder as she looked at her dad who was doing the same as the Gilbert's and shaking his head.
Rikki: "Are you kidding?" They look to her. To Cleo and gestures to the door. "You're just going to lie down and take this?"
"What can she do?" Bella asked. "Talk to us. It's that simple," Don answered. "It's not going to hurt my feelings," Annette gave her a smile. "I might laugh some from the miscommunication, but overall will be fine," Charlotte giggled. "There's a lot she could do, it just depends which side of her. The human side or the mermaid side," Denman mentioned. "Either way it'll get ugly," Max grimaced.
"The one thing about Rikki is that she never gives up," Terry smiled, proud of his daughter for sticking up for her friends.
Rikki: "Let that woman steal your dad and let her daughter hit on Lewis without putting up a fight?"
"I assure you girls, I'm not trying to steal your father," Annette told them gently. "Just his business," Neil joked. "It's okay. We know that now. I just wish we could've known it sooner," Cleo said. "Yeah, without going through all the embarrassment," Kim sighed. "And if they were dating, she wouldn't be stealing your dad anyway. He always knows to put his kids first," Harrison stated. Something I should've learned sooner. "It's never too late, dad," Zane gave him a small smile.
Trust me. There won't be any more 'hitting on Lewis' in our future, Charlotte thought to herself, glancing away.
"There's nothing to fight about though. It's just a misunderstanding," Don exclaimed.
Cleo: frowns and shrugs. "What can I do?"
Rikki: slaps her lightly on the arm. "You're a mermaid! You've got some serious kick-butt superpowers." Cleo thinks it over, the frown slowly going away. "They don't know who they're dealing with." Cleo slowly starts growing a smile and nods slightly.
"I think we do," Charlotte raised an eyebrow with a grin. "Only because of this," Rikki scoffed with a laugh.
"Do you really need a reminder?" Will chuckled. "No, just a pep talk," Cleo smiled at Rikki, thanking her.
"Your powers are pretty awesome," Ash admitted. "Emma's is cooler," Elliot spoke up. "No doubt, buddy, no doubt," Ash chuckled as Emma blushed. "Eh, Rikki's is better. She's got some serious butt-kicking power," Kim claimed. "Hey, what about me?" Cleo pointed a finger at herself. Elliot stood up for his sister. Why not her? "Because they aren't yours," Kim teased. Cleo rolled her eyes. That's why. Because she's the little sister.
Rikki: grins at her and nudges her. "Come on. Am I right?" Pokes her in the shoulder continuously.
"I mean, you are, but for all the wrong reasons," Lewis pointed out. "How was I supposed to know it wasn't an actual date?" Rikki rolled her eyes. "By listening," Lewis smirked.
"What ideas are you putting in her head?" Bev asked suspiciously. "Ones that will only cause trouble," Terry shook his head in amusement.
Cleo: smiles wider and nods along. "Yeah! You're right." Nods then hops up from the bed and looks down at them. "Let's do this!" Emma and Rikki stand up then follow her with mischievous grins on their faces.
"Emma, you're going along with this?!" Lisa asked in shock. "Anything to help a friend," Emma smiled a bit nervously.
"You sure you don't have a siren power? You just lured them in like a fish," Max joked. "Well, I am fish," Rikki said like it was obvious. "And the siren ability only works on boys, and if it ever happens again during a full moon," Cleo said. "Which I really hope doesn't happen again," she added. "Same here," Rikki glanced at Zane. Though they weren't dating at the time and despised each other's guts, it was still a strange sight to see him act that way. Although the eloping story will be her favorite for years to come.
"Where do you get these ideas from?" Terry smacked his forehead. "From you," Rikki smirked playfully.
[The trio of girls walk down the stairs with smiles on their face and stand in the living room facing the kitchen.]
Rikki: puts her hands on her hips. "Need any help?" Emma crosses her arms. Annette smiles up at them as she chops some vegetables. Lewis stood next to her doing the same, looking at them in suspicion.
"Now you know it's trouble if Rikki's asking if someone needs help," Zane snorted. "I can help people," Rikki rolled her eyes, grinning. "Only when you want to. And that's rare," he replied. "I don't know what's more terrifying; you all on the same page or her asking to help," Will looked back and forth.
"The best answer right now is no," Terry told Annette.
"Looks like Lewis already knows what's up," Bella pointed to the screen.
Don: looks up from the stove at them then back to it, stirring the pot. "Girls, you're gonna love this. Annette's secret family recipe." Looks back at them and points at the pot. Annette stops chopping and joins Don at the stove. "It's delicious. So sweet!" Charlotte walks past without a glance and goes to the table. Steps away from the stove and goes to the sink.
"You're cooking grandmother's secret sauce?" Charlotte gasped and looked at her mom. "I guess the mermaid secret wasn't the only one coming out," Annette sighed, a bit disappointed that she ends up sharing the family recipe. "It's okay. If it gets revealed in here, it won't leave this room. Like their secret," Elliot smiled at them. "Thank you," Annette smiled back. It was strange to hear that from an eleven-year-old, but if he was willing to keep the secret, she had no doubt the others wouldn't.
"I guess we do get to end up joining you," Emma gave a small smile. "Not for long if we're up to something," Rikki was starting to regret it. Don was inviting them to join so happily, and they might be ruining it all because of a big misunderstanding.
"You have taken over," Bev laughed lightly. And just a few months ago, it was I who used to.
Annette: turns to him. "Not as sweet as you, Don. Thank you!" Steps away from the stove.
"Okay, this is starting to get too sweet," Kim said a bit disgruntled. "You two just keep making things worse. It sounds even more like a date," Zane remarked. "And it's all about to change with a flip of a coin," Will commented. "Don't you mean a tail?" Ash joked.
[Cleo and Emma glance at Rikki with smug smirks as the feisty blonde's mischievous smile grows even more with their shared glance.]
"I know that look! It's revenge time," Kim grinned. "The chaos is about to begin," Ash narrated.
[Rikki glances away, drops her smile, and crosses her arms. As she does so, she sneakily holds up her palm and aims it at the stove, lightly curling it. The pot of sauce on the stove begins to pop and boil more. Rikki continues to curl her palm until the sauce overboils rapidly from the pot and explodes all over the stove, counter, and floor.]
"Woah!" Elliot yelled in shock as everyone burst into laughter from the blast. "Was not expecting that," Denman said, eyes wide. "You knew they were up to something," Max chuckled. "But I didn't think it would cause this," Denman gestured to the screen.
"Can you guys please stop ruining kitchens?" Neil complained as he held Lisa close to him.
"Wonder where that came from?" Terry looked over at his daughter who was smiling sheepishly. "It was an accident?" Rikki feigned innocence. "How can you claim that as an accident?" Don exclaimed. "Never know when they're involved," Sam chuckled in amusement. "Should've known you guys would cause trouble," Lewis sighed.
[Annette and Charlotte scream in shock as them and Don step back to avoid the hot food from getting on them.]
"Girls! You could've hurt them! You need to be more careful," Neil scolded. "If that sauce would've hit them. It could leave some serious burns," Harrison frowned. "You're right. Sorry, we should've thought that through more. We never would have tried to harm you," Emma said apologetically. "And to be fair, it is the future. You don't have to worry about it happening now," Rikki shrugged it off. "It's okay. We know you three wouldn't intentionally hurt us," Annette gave them a smile.
Annette: gasps in horror. "Oh!" The three secret mermaids have wide smiles on their faces from the reactions.
Don: "Oh, no, the sauce!" The two carefully step over to the stove.
Annette: "Oh, it's ruined!"
"But there's still more in the pot. It could be saved," Bella said. "No, it can't. Once it boils over like that, it means it's got too hot and the rest would be burnt, especially the bottom of the pot," Annette said sadly, hate seeing food go to waste. Leftovers, fine. But ruined food, that's a whole other situation. "I'm sure it would have been great," Don complimented. "Thank you." "And don't worry. It will be even better the next time we make it," Charlotte gave her mom an encouraging smile. "With actual help this time, because all of us will help," Cleo gestured to her and her friends. "We might need a bigger kitchen for that," Rikki joked. "As long as that doesn't happen, we can use the one at my restaurant. There's plenty of room," Annette laughed.
"What was it about not using your powers in public?" Bella raised an eyebrow at her. "Oh, don't act like you haven't," Rikki mumbled.
Charlotte: "Don't worry. We've still got one of your beautiful fish in the oven for mains." Quickly slips on some oven mitts and opens the oven and takes the pan of fish out covered in aluminum foil. Annette groans in disgust from the mess.
"And you jinxed it," Ash said. "Not for long," Kim grinned in mischief. "That 'beautiful fish' better be beautiful on the inside when they're done with it," Zane laughed at the antics going on. "I've already ruined it," Charlotte deflated.
"What was the sauce for then?" Don asked. "It was a homemade cocktail sauce to go with the fish," Annette sighed, watching her hard work get destroyed in mere seconds. "Now hot sauce," Denman humored.
"What's so beautiful about a cooked fish?" Cleo frowned in confusion. "You wouldn't know since you're not the professional," Kim taunted. "Although mom's cooking is usually very nice, I think I was talking about Mr. Sertori's fish. He's the one who caught it, the fish is beautiful itself," Charlotte explained.
[Rikki glanced at Emma with a wide smile. Emma grins back then drops it as she slowly raises a hand to her side and points a flat palm at the fish platter that Charlotte just laid on the counter. The cooked and hot fish immediately freezes, hidden beneath the tinfoil that was supposed to protect it. Emma lowers her hand and takes a short breath, biting back her smug smile.]
"Spoke too soon," Max commented. "Perhaps I should have kept my mouth shut," Charlotte grimaced. "Emma!" Lisa shouted, eyes wide as Annette's jaw dropped. "You had no reason to get involved Emma. There was no need to retaliate when Mrs. Annette has done nothing to any of you," Neil scolded. "Sorry, mom and dad. And I'm especially sorry for anything my screen self has done to you, Mrs. Watsford," Emma apologized, glancing between the three. "It's alright, dear. You were just trying to protect your friend," Annette said, though she did look a bit pale.
"Oh, this is gonna be great," Kim said, ecstatic for their reaction. "Maybe for you," Charlotte said as she held her arms out, ready to catch her mom in case she for some reason faints.
[Annette walks over next to Charlotte. The chef grabs a rag, and peels open the tinfoil. When the tinfoil was finally removed, it reveals a giant fish covered in sheets of ice.]
"Woah, put in a little extra ice there, huh Emma?" Ash puffed his cheeks out, trying his best to keep in his laughter. "Maybe I overdone it a little," Emma scratched her head. "Both of you have," Terry gave his daughter a stern look. "It's like one of those prank TV shows. A real headscratcher," Harrison laughed.
"It's just the future, it's just the future. It won't happen," Charlotte chanted to her mother as she fanned her mom, the Watsford woman taking deep calming breaths to cover the shock she was in.
Annette: pauses. "Hold on." Holds up the frozen fish, gasping in shock. Don and Lewis turn in her direction. Charlotte's eyes widen. "It's – it's frozen solid!" Drops the fish back in the pan. Lewis glances at the girls, eyes narrowed.
"Gee, really? Didn't notice," Kim sarcastically said. "Where are you in all this?" Elliot asked curiously. "She probably got bored and stayed in the living room," Cleo interrupted. "I … you're probably right," Kim lowered her finger.
"Ooh, someone's in trouble," Will noticed Lewis's glance. "What's that look for?" Rikki frowned. "I obviously know what's going on. A hot pan but a frozen fish isn't a coincidence with you three around," Lewis argued. "We're just trying to help Cleo," Emma argued back. "And you became jerks in the process when they've done nothing wrong. You're bullies. That's what you are," Lewis waved to the frozen fish and boiled sauce, anger in his tone. "But –," Rikki went to say but Cleo cut her off.
No. Lewis is right. We were bullies. This all started because I thought dad was moving on. I thought he wasn't ready, but I was the one that wasn't. It's not Annette's fault I misunderstood. It's not Charlotte's fault I wasn't trying to get along, and it's not Lewis's fault I wouldn't talk to him. I'm the one who was at fault, and I dragged you guys into the fight I started. For that I'm sorry, to all of you," Cleo interjected, glancing down. Emma and Rikki glanced at one another then at Cleo, then let out a breath. "We're sorry too. I shouldn't have stirred things up. Maybe Cleo would've had a level head if I didn't," Rikki gave Cleo a small grin as the brunette giggled quietly. "Perhaps I should have stepped up and talked them out of it instead of go along with it. It's not usually like me," Emma sighed. Annette looks up and gives them a shaky smile.
"It – it's okay. I know you don't mean it. The real you, that is, not them," Annette nodded toward the screen. "Yeah. The real you is a lot nicer and cooler than that. And I should have made a better effort that night as well. I'm sure me and Cleo could have found something to bond over," Charlotte smiled back. Well, something else.
It is the future. Maybe we shouldn't get so hot-headed over something that no one has done," Neil reluctantly said, glancing at his wife and looking apologetically at his daughter. "Maybe that's why we're still here. To fix our mistakes. The ones we haven't made yet," Bev said. Not our past. "To learn, to forgive, and to forget," Mrs. Chatham mentioned. "Maybe. I'm sorry for getting upset guys," Lewis shook his head. "It's okay. You were just sticking up for your friends, like you always do," Cleo smiled at him, and he smiled back.
Don: "Did you turn the oven on?"
Annette: "Of course I did!" Rikki acts surprised as Emma and Cleo smirk at each other.
Don: "I'd better check it."
"It went from an oven to a freezer," Neil chuckled in amusement. Now that the tenseness of the situation was over, they could at least laugh about it. "You think I don't know how to use one?" Annette asked. "Considering you own three restaurants, I'm sure you do. But it still wouldn't hurt to check," Don shrugged. "I think it's the same problem as the sink," Kim gave the mermaids a pointed look. "And the shower," Elliot added with a grin.
"Should've known something was up. The fish was more frozen than when I pulled it out of the water. If I serve it that night, I'll put it in the ice chest, not the freezer," Don explained.
[Lewis shakes his head in disappointment and stands up, heading for the girls. Rikki bites her lips, trying to contain her giggles as the other two girls have false innocent smiles on their faces. Lewis snatches Cleo by the arm and takes her further into the living room. Cleo's smile drops.]
Lewis: whispers as he glances at both Cleo and the others. "Guys, whatever you think you're doing, it has to stop." Emma and Rikki step over to them, a hand on their hips.
"We agree with you there. I wish we would," Emma sighed. "Too bad the moon isn't listening to any more wishes," Rikki grumbled.
"Somehow the teenage boy is the only mature one in this situation," Terry humored. "He's like their guardian," Ash joked.
Cleo: glances at the girls and whispers. "We don't know what you're talking about, Lewis." Shakes her head. All three of them form innocent smiles again.
"Lying isn't going to get you anywhere. It's only going to dig the hole deeper, and affect your friendship greatly," Mrs. Chatham warned. She saw what could happen to friends, she didn't want it to happen to them as well.
"It's kind of obvious what you are doing," Charlotte said. "You didn't realize it," Rikki mentioned. "Only because we didn't know the secret," she countered.
"Puh-lease," Kim scoffed. "If you don't know, you need to get your head checked," Lewis poked at it, teasing. Cleo slapped his hand away with a scowl.
Lewis: glances at the others and furrows his brows. "I see. This is about Charlotte, isn't it?" Cleo rolls her eyes but doesn't answer.
"Partly. It's mostly about the whole date thing with dad," Cleo said truthfully. "More like a bit of everything. Charlotte, Annette, Lewis. It's a real mixture," Kim shrugged.
"And you continue to not talk," Lewis sighed. Why won't she tell me?
Lewis: "Fine. I'm going to sort this out right now." Walks away. Cleo glances at the others then at the floor.
"He can try. But it might be hard at this point," Max shook his head.
"Where are you going?" Will asked. "I guess to sort it out," Lewis hesitantly said, sneaking a glance at Charlotte who did the same, the redhead looking sad. "Wouldn't it be better to sort it out with Cleo first? Set things straight?" Lisa asked. "Cleo didn't seem to be in the mindset to listen," Lewis tilted his head at the brunette who rolled her eyes.
[Lewis walks into the kitchen and pulls Charlotte into the entryway.]
Lewis: clasps his hands together. "Charlotte, you and I have had some good times so far." Sneaks a glance into the kitchen.
"Good. Good start so far. Be gentle," Harrison mumbled. "Don't hurt my little girl," Annette warned. "It's okay, mom. He's being nice, he's being sweet and honest about it. Like he always is," Charlotte muttered. Cleo stares at the screen. He's doing it, he's really doing it! "Huh. Guess he does have what it takes," Rikki hummed.
Charlotte: smiles, looking hopeful. "We have?"
Lewis: "Yes. And things seem to have taken a new direction lately."
"Well, I wouldn't put it that way," Neil frowned. "Should have worded it better," Sam agreed. "I think Charlotte will agree," Bella gestured to the screen.
Charlotte's eyes widened in horror. "Oh no. I'm going to get even more heartbroken. He's saying something else, you idiot!" Charlotte hissed at herself.
Charlotte: "You think?"
Lewis: "Definitely." Nods. "And it's not that I don't like you." Shakes his head. "I do –."
"I can't watch this," Charlotte covered her eyes. "As a friend, just say it," Lewis said in frustration.
"Oh great," Cleo complained. "He was never the best at speaking," Emma patted her shoulders. "Gonna have to agree with you on that one," Lewis lazily held a hand up. "You're only making things worse," Kim said. "It's not gonna end well," Ash shook his head.
Charlotte: cuts him off. "You do?" Sighs in relief. "I knew it!" Pulls him into a hug and Lewis has no choice but to hug back, confused by what just happened.
"Maybe you shouldn't have jumped straight into this," Sam suggested. "You're right. I shouldn't have," Lewis said in defeat. "Next time, bud," Zane patted her back. "That's not gonna look good on your end," Will snickered, though he did feel bad for him. Lewis was trying really hard, and he kept ending up with the short stick.
"Let him finish!" Charlotte huffed in annoyance, getting upset with herself rather than the situation. Or maybe it was both. She didn't know anymore.
"At what point did you think he liked you too?" Annette whispered curiously, asking nicely. "I guess when he was being nice to me. I was just too caught up in a crush to realize he was being a friend, nothing more," Charlotte whispered back in disappointment. "There will be someone out there for you one day, Char. You just got to give it time," Annette gave her a small smile.
[At that moment, Cleo walks up from the kitchen and looks at them in pain. Lewis sees and quickly lets go of Charlotte. Charlotte twists around from the shove and looks at Cleo.]
Lewis: holds a finger up. "Cleo, this …" Gestures to him and Charlotte. "isn't what it looks like." Charlotte looks sheepish. Cleo glares at him, fuming.
"He's right. But can you blame her? In her own home too," Bella mentioned. "No. I can only blame myself," Lewis sighed, slumped back in his seat.
"Charlotte thinks otherwise," Rikki commented. "And Charlotte knows it's not," Charlotte said in a deadpanned tone, speaking in third person, glaring at the screen.
"How do you keep making the situation worse?" Ash laughed. "Dunno. But he tends to do that a lot," Rikki grinned. "You're only making things worse for yourself," Max shook his head. He should know. He's been in similar situations. And with mermaids involved, it makes the problems double.
"Tell that to her. She's pissed," Zane muttered. "I did," Lewis spat out.
[Annette holds the frozen fish under the faucet using hot water to try and melt the ice.]
"Knowing Emma's powers, that will take a while. She can freeze things twice as strong than a freezer," Lewis mentioned. "Well, it's already late and we have to start from scratch. The only other thing to do was stick it in the oven we believe isn't working," Annette shrugged. "Why won't you defrost it for her?" Terry asked. "I dunno. It's a frozen cooked fish. If I heat it up, it could make it worse. Plus, gotta keep it a secret," Rikki answered. "Never had it happen before. What was I supposed to do?" Annette questioned.
Don: to Annette. Closes the stove and turns to her. "It's working now." Cleo storms past them with Lewis following.
"Turns out it always was," Don chuckled. "You girls got away with way too much," Sam said. "Not anymore," Rikki mumbled. "Only because we didn't know they were mermaids," Bev said. "And now that we do …," Neil trailed off. "Looks like there is a downside to this whole viewing thing," Cleo pouted.
Lewis: "Please, Cleo." Charlotte distances herself as she walks into the kitchen. Don walks over next to Annette.
"It's a little late to keep trying," Emma warned him. "After that. Yeah," Lewis winced.
Annette: to Don. "It won't take long as long as we can get it defrosted. Charlotte, can you get me some more marinade?" Cleo and Lewis walk back into the living room where Emma and Rikki were still.
Charlotte: "Yeah. Sure, mom." Kim watches her dad and Annette try to defrost the fish. Annette walks over to the cabinets.
"Oh, now I show up," Kim tossed her hands to her side.
"With Mrs. Frosty there, I doubt you ever will," Zane chuckled. "Surely she wouldn't keep freezing it," Lisa frowned. "… anything to help a friend," Emma smiled nervously.
"Why more?" Elliot asked curiously. "To get the flavor back," Annette remarked.
Don: "My fish is in safe hands." Annette looks at him nervously.
"Those aren't the hands you have to worry about," Lewis said. "It's already frozen. What else could happen to it?" Don asked. "You don't wanna know," he shuttered.
"Why so nervous, mom?" Charlotte asked. "It might've been safe in my hands, but from everything that's happened so far, I wasn't sure if the kitchen was safe. Or the fish," Annette said a bit worried. "Or if dinner will be on time. I know we all have to be hungry," Kim grabbed her stomach.
[Cleo, still furious, crosses her arms and glances at the sink. Twisting her hand in anger, the water in the sink explodes and sprays all over Annette and Don. The two shriek and scream from the jet spray of water that continues to pop up. Don reaches for the knob and turns the water off.]
The whole room burst into laughter, even Don and Annette couldn't help but laugh. Seeing their reaction and how soaked they were, brought amusement to everyone. "Why didn't you just run from it?" Kim asked between her fits of laughter. "I'm trying to stop it," Don shook his head, grinning. "Our hero," Charlotte sarcastically said, in a playful manner. "Meanwhile I'm holding a fish," Annette laughed, blushing slightly from embarrassment. "Better than watching and doing nothing," Will glanced at Charlotte and Kim. "I'm doing something. I'm trying my best not to laugh onscreen," Kim mentioned. "Or the one causing it," Cleo laughed sheepishly. "Sorry." "It's the future dear. It's okay. As long as you never do it," Annette pointed a finger down.
"Hey, dad's first jet spray," Kim said ecstatic. "Finally, I'm not the only one." "You never were. Cleo's done it to me plenty of times whenever I get her mad. Which is why I use tight-lid water bottles now," Lewis smiled smugly.
[Now soaking wet, the two look at themselves. Charlotte was shocked holding the marinade. Don steps back and shakes the excess water off his arms; not that it could help, he's wearing long sleeves. Annette moves over and drops the fish in the pan, looking at the water all over her arms and clothes. She leans over the counter, fuming, taking deep breaths.]
"Mom's mad," Charlotte winced. "How do you know? She's keeping her cool," Cleo asked. "Do you see her face? Whenever she's mad, she starts off with the silent treatment to try and keep from exploding. But then it eventually happens," Charlotte stated. "You'd be mad too if you had the night I did," Annette huffed. "I did. I'm there," Charlotte waved to herself. "I don't think there will be any 'holding it in' this time," Ash grimaced. "Mad is an understatement. She's furious," Emma added.
"The good news is you got the fish half defrosted," Will tried to be optimistic. "But it's sad that's the only good news," Bella frowned, arms crossed.
Kim: looks concerned. "Maybe we could just call out for pizza?" Don shakes his arms some more, looking furious at the sink. Annette tightens her grip on the counter, glaring down at it. Emma slowly turns to Cleo, a bit stunned by her outburst. Cleo lowers her arm, still scowling and leans against the back of the couch. Lewis sighs in defeat, covering his face.
"Now isn't the time to joke around, Kim," Bev told her. "I doubt I was. We were all hungry, the food was ruined, and it was getting late. And some of us were pretty hangry by that point," Kim explained, sneaking a glance at the Watsfords. "Pizza does sound nice," Annette sighed. "Better than a partially frozen fish," Bella mumbled.
"That's the, 'I give up' look for sure," Zane pointed at Lewis onscreen, laughing.
"Now you speak up?" Elliot giggled. "In my defense I thought it was a date too. Guess I was hoping it would help," Kim shrugged. "You'd be okay with Annette as a stepmom? Hypothetically I mean," Denman questioned. "Yeah, I mean she's cool. And she cooks," Kim admitted with a small grin.
[A minute later, Annette storms out of the kitchen, her patience ran out. Don follows behind her as Annette rushes to the door.]
Annette: "If this is the way you do business, you can count me out." Turns to him and glares. The teens watch from the living room. Charlotte follows behind the two adults.
"Oh, so now we announce the whole business thing," Annette said in amusement, shaking her head. "Should've said that hours ago," Don chuckled. "Yeah, look at the trouble it caused you two," Sam giggled along.
"She's snapped," Charlotte grimaced. "Meh. It was bound to happen," Rikki said.
"I catch fish for a living. That is in no way how I do my business. Each of my fishing boats are run properly and by the best people I know," Don announced. "Starting about six months ago," Cleo grinned. "…yeah, starting then," Don deflated. "Well, I can tell by now. The Watsford restaurant will have a great supply of fish with you as a partner," Annette smiled.
The Sertori's and friends gasp in shock, wide smiles spreading on their faces. "Really?!" Kim said in excitement. "You still want me after that?" Don asked in surprised disbelief. "Of course. I've seen your work and how much you care about it. It's far better than anyone I've dealt with so far. Just please ignore my outburst from this," Annette waved a hand of dismissal at the screen. "As long as you ignore mine," Don laughed, thrilled. "That's fantastic!" Lisa clapped. "Congratulations, Don. You've earned it," Bev smiled at him proudly. "Yeah, dad. Congrats," Cleo and Kim give him a hug. "Couldn't have done it without my girls," Don hugged them back.
Don: holds his hands up to stop her. "I'm sorry. Please." Annette turns around and marches toward the door with Charlotte following silently behind. "You'll have to come back another time."
"After that, I think not," Terry muttered. "When everything's working or when everything's explained?" Will asked curiously. "How about both?" Don raised an eyebrow, glancing at Cleo and her friends. "I promise this won't happen at the actual dinner," Cleo raised her hand. "I'm gonna take your word on that one," Annette humored.
"Will there be another time?" Harrison asked. "Here, for sure. But there … not so much," Charlotte hesitated.
Annette: whips back around. "Don, I'll be straight with you."
"You're not gonna like that answer," Max winced, having heard that a time or two from Gracie. It always was.
Don: lowers his hands. "Okay."
Annette: eyes wide in fury, snaps. "No!" Charlotte opens the door and walks out, Annette quickly follows. Don holds his hands out and tries to speak, but before he can, she slams the door in his face.
"Told ya," Max quipped.
"Guess there will be plenty of leftovers now," Elliot spoke softly. "What leftovers? The food was ruined," Ash remarked.
"Maybe she'll change her mind once she calms down," Sam suggested. "Doubt it," Charlotte mumbled. She loved her mom, but once she made up her mind, it was rare for her to ever go back on it. Like her groundings or telling her she will go to those dinners, there were no changies-backsies to her decisions.
"At least you tried," Bev gave him a small sad smile. That was the best thing he could do for their daughters: try.
[Don turns around with a sigh and walks back into the entryway covering his face with his hands. The teens watch with concerned expressions. Emma glances at Rikki, Lewis crosses his arms, Cleo looks back at them nervously, and Kim watches as her dad slams both his fists against the entryway frame in frustration, then leans his head against it.]
"Know that feeling," Neil mumbled. "I don't think there's anyone in this room that doesn't. Besides the kids of course," Harrison mentioned. "We all have times where we feel like we just lost something. Where we feel defeated and don't know what to do. You're not the only one, Don," Terry sighed. "But we always find a way to bounce back, because you know what's depending on it. It's the same thing that will support you and encourage you to keep going," Annette smiled at Charlotte. "The one thing you're working for," Bella smiled fondly. It was the same mantra her dad says every time he goes off on a business trip or mentions how rough his work was. But he always said it looking at her with a smile.
"Don't give up, Mr. Sertori. I know you can find a way through this. You always do," Emma smiled. "And we'll have your back, no matter what," Cleo glanced at Kim then back at him. "Thanks, girls. And thanks to all of you too," Don smiled at all of them. It was tough being a single parent, but he wasn't alone. He had his daughters to help out, they were a team, and he had all his friends who would be by his side if he needed the help, even Bev even if she wasn't in the picture. He wasn't alone.
Cleo: motions to Lewis. "You should go too, Lewis." Glances away, rubbing her arm.
Lewis: stares at her, disappointed. "Okay."
"I think it's best for everyone to leave," Bev nodded. "Because they definitely need to talk," Bella waved a finger at the remaining Sertori family members.
"Oh, please. You didn't want me there because it would be super awkward," Lewis scoffed. "I thought it'd be because you would say 'I told you so'," Kim remarked. "You know me so well," Lewis teased, placing a hand over his heart. "Wished I didn't." "Both if I had to assume," Cleo placed her head in her hands.
Lewis: starts walking then stops next to Cleo and whispers in her ear. "You didn't have to do that, you know." Cleo glances away with no response. Lewis hastily walks to the door and leaves. Don shakes his head against the frame. Rikki and Emma remain in the living room, standing awkwardly.
"There it is," Kim smiled smugly.
"Shouldn't you girls leave as well?" Lisa asked. "We should," Emma agreed. "So why are we still standing there?" Rikki frowned. "I don't know. But it's weird," Emma mentioned, Rikki nodding in agreement. "The family could use some privacy right now," Neil said. "Everyone's privacy has already been invaded because of this whole thing. What more could we do?" Zane remarked.
"Wouldn't you have heard that?" Elliot asked. "Probably, but I'll have to save my clever remarks for later," Kim said. Someone else is in need of attention right now. "Clever. More like snarky," Cleo scoffed.
Kim: steps up. "It's alright, dad. If she really loves you, she'll come back."
"At least someone was supportive, even if it wasn't true," Don gave Cleo a pointed look. "It's a troubling time, okay? A lot on my mind," Cleo rolled her eyes, pouting. "Dad is always on my side when it's needed, of course I'll be there for him too," Kim nodded. Bev glanced away.
If she really loves you, she'll come back. She might be talking about Annette, but with this viewing, it feels like a hit in the gut. Lewis stared at the screen. That can be said for others as well, for the ones who keep trying.
Don: glances at her, then takes a second glance, oblivious to what she was talking about. "Loves me? What are you talking about?"
"Now we're communicating," Kim said in an exhausted tone. "Finally," Cleo huffed. "Don't 'finally' us. You're the older sister, you should be the one doing this," Kim gestured to the screen. "I'm not the one who blabs my mouth all the time," Cleo argued. "You blabbed about this. Who's the one who told me I'd be getting a new stepmom soon?" Kim countered. "Girls, that's enough," Don sighed. "Why are you arguing about something neither of you have done yet?" Ash asked. "Don't ask," Cleo sighed, annoyed. "Don't act like you won't do it either," Kim bickered. "Considering I haven't been shown, I doubt I ever will," Ash chuckled. Max hummed in thought. He hasn't been shown yet, neither have I, Sam, Bella, and Terry. But Annette was just revealed in their future now, meaning we're most likely a part of their future as well. What connection could we have with these girls?
"You have no clue what they've been thinking," Zane laughed. "I wouldn't have asked if I did," Don remarked. "This is going to be a reliever for all of you then," Sam smiled. "For me as well," Annette mumbled, taking a relaxing breath. "No kidding," Charlotte mumbled with her.
Kim: "You and Annette. Aren't you getting married?" Cleo crosses her arms.
"Married?!" nearly the whole audience exclaimed before bursting into laughter. Except for Cleo and Kim who were red as tomatoes. "Like you wouldn't think the same thing if it was your mom," Cleo scowled at Charlotte who was laughing with the others. "I thought they were dating, I never said anything about marriage," Charlotte covered her mouth. Doesn't mean you didn't think it, the brunette thought. "It was just talks of dating in here, and it wasn't even that!" Will grinned. "Girls, if I were to ever date, it would be a long time before we would get married," Don chuckled. "How long are we talking?" Sam asked curiously. "I dunno. Probably a year or two," Don shrugged.
"The only certificate we're getting is a business certificate in partnership," Annette joked.
"Reminds me of something very similar," Rikki teased, tilting her head toward Zane. "Please don't bring that up again," he whined. "You gotta admit, it's very similar to that one," Lewis mentioned.
Don: taken aback. "What? Annette … is a business partner. She was here to inspect my fish to buy for her restaurant."
"Finally! The truth is revealed," Lewis said a bit dramatically. "About time," Cleo grumbled. "Should've done that hours ago," Harrison chuckled. "Cleo's the one who claimed she knew everything. Guess I thought it would save me from explaining everything," Don blamed. "You could've clarified it," Cleo scoffed. "So could you," he said. "Well, we know where they get the arguing from," Bev shook her head in amusement.
"An interesting way to inspect them," Denman said. "Fishermen should treat their fish properly, like they would their own home," Annette said. "Or their own family, with care," Charlotte added, having heard that mantra for years.
Cleo: eyes widen. "She's a chef?"
Don: "Yes. There's nothing going on. And certainly not now. She wouldn't want anything to do with me." Cleo opens her mouth in realization before biting her lip in regret. Cleo and Kim turn to each other. "I've lost the biggest deal of the year." Waves his hands around. Cleo glances around, her shoulders sagging as she now understands that she messed up big time for her dad.
"So, what are we there for?" Emma asked. "Audience? Witnesses? Moral support? Maybe all three if he discovers what really happened," Rikki answered.
"Unfortunately, you might be right about that," Charlotte winced. As well as someone else.
"Too bad the inspection didn't pass," Don sighed. "Well, it's a good thing I believe in second chances," Annette smiled.
"It is a big deal. Would be great for your fishing business," Max commented. "And your restaurant," Lisa implied.
[The next morning, the family got to work on cleaning their house. More specifically, the mess that was created from last night's dinner. Kim was scrubbing the counter down with gloves and a soapy rag.]
Kim: "This stuff went everywhere." Walks over to the sink, scrunching her face in disgust. "How did it explode like that?" Cleo rushes past her with a tablecloth. Squeezes the rag out over the sink.
"I think I have an idea," Cleo glanced at Rikki, grinning. "You went along with it," Rikki said. "You started it," Emma reminded. "Because of a hot-tempered mermaid, that's how," Zane chuckled. "And that hot-tempered mermaid is my daughter. Watch it," Terry pointed two fingers at the Bennett.
"Sauce can be messy. But never that much," Annette said, a bit bewildered. "At least they're cleaning it," Lisa put a hand over her heart, relieved. "You think they would leave it?" Neil raised an eyebrow. "I don't know what to think at this point," she sighed. "Mom, you know your kitchen has been in far worse situations and survived," Emma grinned. "I think I need to ban all of you from my kitchen," Lisa threatened.
"That's gonna take all day," Kim whined. "With the three of you working together, you ought to be able to cut it down by half. Besides it's only the kitchen," Mrs. Chatham mentioned. "A kitchen that they got ahold of. Again. It's gonna take a while," she sighed.
"Ew!" Bella gagged at the dirty rag water. "Come on, this is much better than the magical fungus. And I lived through it!" Lewis said. "We all know someone who can't do it," Kim gave her sister a look. "Not my fault I can't touch water," Cleo shrugged.
Don: walks into the kitchen from his office. "No idea. I think I'd better get someone in to check that stove." Points at it. "And the oven." Gestures to it then looks to the sink and points at it. "And the sink."
"Sounds like an entire kitchen remodel," Lisa oohed. "Don't even think about it," Neil shook his head.
"Never done any of that when I was there," Bev grumbled. "We never had any of those issues when you were there," Don pointed out. "No. Just the sink," Kim said in a deadpanned tone, glaring at a giggling Cleo.
"Those three are the main kitchen essentials," Annette nodded. "My fridge begs to differ," Terry chuckled.
"And I better ground my daughter too while I'm at it," Don added. "What?!" Cleo whipped around to him, eyes wide. "You're right. They did have their hands dirty in this one," Neil agreed. "Dad, you can't be serious," Emma frowned. "And don't think you're getting away with this either, Rikki," Terry wagged a finger at her. "You're seriously gonna ground us for something that hasn't happened?" Rikki raised an eyebrow. The three men glance at one another then burst into laughter. "Come on girls, we're just messing with ya!" Don laughed. "Where's your sense of humor?" Neil grinned. "Of course," Emma rolled her eyes, though relieved that she wasn't grounded. This time. "Great, now our dads are becoming best friends," Rikki dropped her hands.
Cleo: unfolds the tablecloth, looking at her dad. "Dad, I want to apologize about last night."
"You better," Kim nodded. "You didn't like it either," Cleo argued. "But I didn't start attacking them," Kim reminded. "Neither have I," Cleo smirked, crossing her arms. "We. Neither have we," Rikki gestured to her and Emma.
"It's okay, sweetheart. I should've explained things better. It's just one big misunderstanding," Don remarked. "'Big' is an understatement," Ash muttered.
Don: looks at her then glances away. "Don't be silly. I'm the one who should apologize." Gestures to himself. Cleo lays the tablecloth down and steps closer to her dad at the counter, Kim does the same. "I was so worried about making that deal, I gave you the wrong impression about Annette." Glances at Kim. "You two must have been freaking out."
"Maybe a little," Cleo pinched her fingers together. "You call wrecking an entire kitchen 'a little'?" Bella raised an eyebrow.
"It did look like a date," Lisa nodded. "Just not about getting married," Neil humored. "Although the nervous fish talking would explain it," Ash mentioned. "Nah, dad does that regardless," Kim waved it off. "I don't talk about fish that much," Don said. "Yes, you do," Bev replied.
Cleo: has a small nervous smile and nods, glancing at Kim. "No, we're fine about it, really." Has a big smile on her face and glances at Kim who nodded along. Kim glances back at Cleo, biting her lip and the brunette nods at Don. "We were freaking out."
"Define freaking out," Elliot giggled. "I still think I handled it better," Kim smiled smugly. "Oh, please. If you were a mermaid, you would've done much worse," Cleo scoffed playfully. "Consider it a good thing I'm not," Kim laughed along. "No, you weren't. Kim was being more mature about it than you were, and that's saying something," Rikki said. "You egged it on," Cleo frowned. "Ever heard of a bad influence?" Rikki grinned. "Totally," Bella chuckled.
Don: chuckles. "Let me get one thing clear." Glances at his girls. "You two are the only women in my life. Okay?"
Kim: smiles. "Yeah."
Cleo: smiles at Kim then him. "Okay."
"Aww," Sam couldn't help but smile, as did the other women in the room. "Nothing is better than our kids," Neil smiled at Lisa and his two children. "Even though they can be a pain sometimes, we still love them," Terry smiled at Rikki. "Right back at ya, dad," Rikki pointed a finger gun at him. "We will always choose them over anything, including work," Harrison glanced at Zane, grinning. "No matter what, we will always love them," Annette said as Charlotte pulled her into a hug. "And vice versa," the redhead added.
Don: "Now give your dad a hug." Holds his arms out and the three of them hug. He rubs their arms, smiling down at them.
"And that means in here as well," Don does the same as his onscreen self. "Dad," Kim whined. "Come on, Kimmy," Cleo hugged her dad and Kim reluctantly did the same. "It's like a reenactment," Mrs. Chatham chuckled.
[Later at Mako Island, the trio of mermaids return to the moonpool, floating about.]
Cleo: "How could I get it so wrong?"
"Because it was instinct. A first appearance with your dad with another person," Lisa told her gently. "Plus who would think it was a business dinner?" Zane chuckled. "I would cause I'm used to it, although I will admit I thought the same when mom first met Mr. Sertori," Charlotte raised her hand slightly. "We all thought so for a minute. The future can be a tricky thing," Max informed. "Never judge a book by its cover," Mrs. Chatham smiled at them, glancing at Bella. "And never judge at first glance when it comes to your dad talking to women," Lewis joked.
"Guess we got the kitchen cleaned," Cleo commented. "Or you left in the middle of it, wouldn't be the first time," Kim mumbled the last part.
Rikki: leans against the ledge. "You might have been wrong about your dad, but Lewis is still a little worm." Swims over to the other side of the moonpool.
"Excuse me?!" Lewis's jaw-dropped as the room burst into laughter, mainly from the younger folks but a few of the adults did have to hide their amusement. "I meant what I said," Rikki crossed her arms. "He wasn't trying to hurt Cleo, he's just an idiot for not realizing it," Emma stood up for him. "He could try to grow a spine and stand up for what he wants," Zane suggested. "I have a spine, it just wasn't needed," Lewis argued. "Whatever you say, buddy," Zane sarcastically said.
"Someone's a little salty," Bella commented. "I'm defending my friend," Rikki corrected. "From what? He's not even there," she remarked.
"I tried fixing the situation, Cleo knows that," Lewis defended himself. "Yeah, you just have to work on your words," Ash told him. "And finishing sentences," Charlotte said, blushing a little, ashamed of that night.
Cleo: "No, forget about Lewis. I'm over him." Rikki and Emma give her a look. "No, really. I broke up with him. I understand if he wants to find someone else."
"Sure, you are," Kim said in sarcasm. "Doesn't seem that way, considering everything that happened that night," Annette mentioned. "Half of that was because of a misunderstanding with my dad," Cleo explained. "And what about the other half?" Charlotte asked. Cleo didn't answer, glancing down. "Just because you broke up with Lewis, doesn't mean you're over him," Charlotte informed her in a nice tone. "… I might be still lingering on some memories, and everything we've been through," Cleo reluctantly answered. And it definitely hurt to see onscreen Charlotte clinging onto him.
"But you do understand though that it was a misunderstanding on my end as well, don't you? I wasn't trying to get with Charlotte, I was trying to fix it while still being friends," Lewis waved his arms around. "Yeah, I know," Cleo sighed, giving him a small smile. Seeing the future from this angle, she could see that the entire thing was a misunderstanding. With her dad and Annette, and Lewis and Charlotte. If only her onscreen person was more open-minded and could see the truth they have witnessed.
I don't want anyone else, I want to be with you, Lewis thought.
Emma: raises an eyebrow. "Even if that someone else is Charlotte?"
"What's wrong with that?" Annette frowned. "Nothing. It's just, you know, in that timeline Cleo and Charlotte didn't exactly get along," Emma winced. "It probably didn't help that I read her diary," Cleo rubbed her neck sheepishly. Or that I was going after her best friend, Charlotte gulped.
"I'm not in love with Charlotte, I'm in love with her," Lewis whispered to himself.
"Emma, that's not nice," Lisa scolded. "Sorry, mom," Emma said.
Cleo: "Yep. It's his choice. It's an incredibly dumb choice, but it's still his choice." They smile at her, hiding their laughter.
"Hey!" Charlotte and Lewis both frown. "I hear jealousy," Kim teased. Cleo rolled her eyes but didn't fight the grin off her face. "Cleo, that's not nice either," Don shook his head. "I know dad," Cleo sighed.
"Either way, it's his choice, and friends will always support them in their decisions," Max said. Dumb or not. "But we're not dating," Lewis argued.
Rikki: "So, what about your dad?"
Cleo: opens her mouth, hesitates for a moment then looks at them with a sheepish smile. "I'm gonna need your help on that one." Rikki and Emma glance at one another in confusion.
"She's got another plan. Let's see how horribly wrong it goes this time," Ash joked. "If it's for my dad, it's got to be okay," Cleo said. "The last time you drug them into a plan, it ended with a kitchen disaster, that I'm probably still cleaning," Kim said a bit annoyed. "Please don't destroy another kitchen. I don't know if I can handle it," Lisa put a hand over her heart. "What are you planning this time?" Sam asked curiously. "How should I know?" Cleo asked. Revenge? Charlotte thought, worried about her and her mom.
"I sense an apology gift coming. What will it be?" Harrison wondered. "Perhaps a new business offer? But that won't be necessary, I'll still be partnering with him despite whatever the future shows," Annette suggested. "Please, we're mermaids, not miracle workers. The only one that might can get business done is Emma, and only because her dad is a businessman and she's strictly organized," Rikki remarked. "What about me? Don't I get an apology gift?" Lewis pouted. "You'll get yours later," Cleo told him. "Ew, gross," Kim said in disgust as Don and Bev's eyes widened. "Not that!" Lewis and Cleo blushed in embarrassment, as did a silent Charlotte.
[A moment later, the three rushed out of the underwater entrance and through open waters to fulfill Cleo's request. As they reach the reefs of Mako, they slow down and peer over a large rock of reefs. Cleo raises her arm and points. The two blondes look in the direction of her finger to find a school of large fish swimming around.]
"I think I know what the idea is," Will smiled. "I think I know what the apology gift is, but I don't think it's just for Mr. Sertori," Charlotte smiled brightly, looking at her mom who gasped in shock, getting the idea as well.
"There's so many. How are you going to catch them all?" Elliot asked. It's not that hard when there are fins involved, Bella smirked. "The same way we did last time El," Emma grinned, arms crossed. "And that's still a mystery to us," Neil muttered. "I told you. Fish are attracted to other fish," Zane chuckled. "Then what does that make you?" Rikki asked, smirking.
"Those look spectacular," Don said in exasperation. "Definitely a good catch," Max agreed.
[Later that day, Emma and Rikki were back on land in the Juicenet Café, having their large catch of seafood displayed on beautifully decorated trays. With gloves on to keep from getting wet, the girls make last-second arrangements to the platters. Well … one of them is.]
Rikki: moves a fish's mouth as if it were talking. "How do I look?"
"Amazing, I'll say," Don laughed. He always enjoyed a good fish joke. "Yeah, amazing," Zane smiled at Rikki. "Looks dead," Kim said bluntly. "Delicious," Ash commented. "Looks like dinner to me," Terry chuckled.
"What's with the gloves? Shouldn't they be dry?" Will asked. "Mostly. But the fish need to be kept on ice to keep them fresh, so it's understandable as to why the gloves are needed," Annette explained for them.
Emma: holds up a crab leg, looking nervous. In the background, an employee of the café wipes off the counter, getting the café ready for opening. "Do you actually think this is going to work?" Puts the crab leg back on the platter.
"That's a lot more than just fish," Charlotte said in surprise. "I guess we wanted to make a good impression," Cleo grinned. "Second time's a charm," Emma said, fingers crossed.
"How did you even know to do all that?" Don said a bit impressed. "You've taught us everything about fishing our whole lives, dad. Of course we're gonna put those skills to use," Cleo smiled.
"Knowing mom, it will," Charlotte nodded. "Regardless of what happens, I'm proud of you girls for trying to make things right," Lisa smiled proudly at the three of them.
"Only one way to find out," Cleo crossed her fingers too.
"Is Wilfred okay with you girls setting up before open time?" Bev asked, concerned. "Of course. After the commercial, it was a big hit. Wilfred said he owed me one, so looks like I cashed that offer in," Emma informed. "Seems like a waste doing it on that," Rikki sighed. "Anything for a friend, remember?" Emma told her.
Rikki: steps closer, looking at the beaded doors. "Well, we're about to find out." Takes her gloves off. Emma looks up to see Annette walk through the beaded curtains.
Annette: walks in with a briefcase, looking serious but annoyed at the same time. "I got your call. What is all this about?"
"How did you get her number?" Don asked. "Either you or Charlotte. Although something tells me it must be Charlotte since I would want this to be a surprise for you," Cleo answered. "Anything for a friend, and anything for my mom," Charlotte smiled.
"Someone's still peed off about last night," Will snickered. "You would be too after the events I – well, she went through," Annette flinched thinking of it.
"Shouldn't you know if they called?" Denman asked. "Not if they told me to just meet them, which sounds like it," she shrugged.
"Why'd you take the gloves off?" Terry asked a bit worried. "I'd rather not have stinky fish smell cling to my hands," Rikki said, disgruntled.
Annette: looks at the seafood platters. "Oh, that's impressive." Puts the briefcase down and feels the food. "Firm and fresh. Where did you get it?" Cleo walks out of the back with another platter.
"It is. Oh, thank you girls so much," Annette smiled with tears in her eyes. "Yeah, thanks. That's honestly one of the best things anyone could do for my mom," Charlotte smiled gratefully at the girls.
"Just how we like it," Max smiled. "Just how we catch it," Don declared.
"That's a secret," Elliot winked.
Cleo: smiles upon seeing her and walks over. "From Don Sertori. The freshest fish in town." Emma and Rikki step aside so she could bring the last platter, full of more crab legs, clams, and oysters.
"That's a lie," Don added, but couldn't help but smile that his daughter was doing this for him. "Technically it's still from a Sertori," Lewis pointed out, making Cleo laugh lightly.
"How many did you guys get?" Zane said, bewildered. "Enough to feed a whole restaurant looks like," Annette said, giddy.
[Annette crosses her arms, a bit conflicted as she looks up at Cleo, the daughter of the man's business she turned down.]
Cleo: "I'm sorry about last night. It was an accident." Annette glances back down at the fish. "Forgive us?"
"Of course you're forgiven," Annette said. "Mom will go easy on you, mainly due to you three being the same age as me," Charlotte mentioned. That and she would believe us to be good friends. She's not the only one beginning to believe it either.
"That was no accident," Kim said. "It was a mistake, a misunderstanding," Emma corrected. "That's another lie," Don gave her a look. "Well, I couldn't exactly tell her the truth. How could I explain what happened without telling her I'm a mermaid?" Cleo exclaimed.
Annette: tilts her head. "Well, this is just the sort of produce my restaurant needs."
"Is that a yes?" Don asked, hopeful. "It's working up to one," Charlotte smiled at her mom. "It sure is," Neil agreed. "Come on. Please," Kim begged, crossing her fingers. It would really make her dad happy!
"Gotta admit, it does look a lot better than the former business partners," Annette stated. "It's perfect," Sam encouraged.
Cleo: "You bet it is." Small smile.
Annette: thinks it over before speaking up. "You tell Don to give me a call. I'm sure we can do business." Smiles, grabs her briefcase, and leaves. Cleo watches her go with a big smile on her face then looks at her friends.
"Yes!" Cleo and Kim squealed in excitement as everyone else claps for the girls' success. "That's what I'm talking about!" Don jumped up in his excitement and punched a fist in the air. Realizing what he was doing, he dropped back down into his seat and coughed. "Uh, good job girls. Thank you." "Very professional," Bev told him with a giggle.
"It would be good business for both of us," Annette informed. "That it will," Don nodded, still jumping on the inside from getting the deal.
"That didn't take long," Lisa said, impressed. She figured it would take longer. "What can I say? We know how to get down to business," Cleo grinned. "I think my mind was already made up before the, uh, incident. With their apology gift, it helped make my mind up quicker," Annette explained.
[Outside, Charlotte leans against a pole waiting for her mom when Lewis walks up with his fishing gear once more.]
Charlotte: "Going fishing?"
"Again?" Bella asked. "I didn't get to fish the day before. Only had one bite," Lewis glanced at Cleo. "Let's hope no more events like that happens again," Ash said. "Oh, I don't think it will," Lewis replied. "Got to fish while he can before school the next day," Max mentioned.
"I thought your rod was … lost," Sam hesitated, thinking of the right word to use without offending Cleo. "Well, two things. Either Cleo fished it out of the sea, or I used my spare one at my house. I always, always have a backup," Lewis explained. "A fisherman can never have too many," Don stated. "Yes they can," Cleo and Kim said simultaneously. He had enough to fill a whole room.
"Why aren't you inside with them?" Will asked. "After last night, I think it would be best for me to wait outside. I can't mess this deal up for my mom again," Charlotte explained.
Lewis: "Yeah. And no, you can't come."
"Good. It's for the best," Emma said. She didn't want to see another fight between her friends. "It would be best for me not to," Charlotte sighed, glancing away. "You can now. There shouldn't be a problem with it, and there should have never been a problem with it," Cleo spoke up. "Yeah, it's just fishing," Lewis said. Between friends. "But I probably do need some alone time to think things over," he added. "I think both of you do," Rikki looked between the two of them.
Lewis: goes to walk away when he stops and turns back to her. "Look, we should … we should get something straight between us. Last night –."
"Do you really think you should have that conversation in public?" Lisa asked. "It's no different than them having it at my house," Cleo shrugged. "If I don't talk about it now, who knows when the next time will be," Lewis remarked.
"Are you going to let him finish his sentences this time?" Zane raised an eyebrow. "Maybe," Charlotte blushed slightly. "Let's hope so because this conversation is really needed," Emma said.
Charlotte: steps closer to him and cuts him off with a small smile. "It's okay. You're not ready to move on. I know."
"And we're still cutting him off," Zane tossed his hands in the air. "At least this time I know what he's saying," Charlotte said, a small sad smile on her face. He wasn't ready to move on, and neither was Cleo. The two still clearly cared for each other, they were just too stubborn to admit it. But neither of them realizes it's only going to make them feel worse. Hopefully, in the future, they'll finally figure it out. "But she's right," Lewis added. "I'm not," he glanced at Cleo, giving her a small loving smile. Cleo couldn't help but smile back.
Lewis: winces. "It's just, my life's pretty complicated right now." Shakes his head.
"That's what Cleo's been saying," Bella said. "Guess now I understand how it feels," Lewis sighed. "Lewis might be human, but his life is just as complicated as theirs with trying to help them out and protect the secret," Charlotte nodded, still sad.
"You can say that again," Zane muttered. "You're the only teenager who can say they have mermaids as best friends. Yeah, I'd say that's complicated," Will chuckled.
Charlotte: "It's okay, Lewis."
Lewis: turns his head, a bit surprised. "It is?"
Charlotte: nods, smiling. "Yeah, sure. I can wait."
"Wow, you don't quit, do you?" Bella said, eyes wide. "I think I don't know when," Charlotte frowned. Wait? Wait on what? There's no waiting! The only one waiting is for when the right one comes for me and for when Lewis and Cleo can get over their stubborn streaks!
"But he doesn't want to be with you. Not in that way," Kim said. "Kim!" Bev scolded. "What? It's what he was trying to say earlier, isn't it? They're just friends," the preteen reminded. Lewis's mouth remained shut. Speak about it in private, speak about it in private, he kept repeating in his head.
"Honey, just don't keep your hopes stuck to one person. There are plenty of fish in the sea as they say," Annette gave her a small smile. "I know, mom. Just like I know when to do the right thing, like you've taught me," she returned the small smile.
Lewis: furrows his brows and nods. "Yeah. That's great." Cleo, Annette, and the other girls walk outside.
Cleo: "Thanks for coming, Annette."
Annette: "Thank you." Lewis turns around to see the three girls interacting with the Watsford woman. Walks away from them and goes back to Charlotte.
Lewis: turns back to Charlotte, confused and nervous. "I've got to go. I'll talk to you later." Rushes off.
"Someone's scared," Elliot teased Lewis. "You've seen them in action. I'd rather not end up on another waterspout," Lewis shuttered at the memory. "Eh, you've been through worse," Rikki shrugged.
"Have fun fishing I guess," Charlotte waved to the screen.
[Charlotte watches him go then turns back to look at the girls. Her smile drops as she stares at Cleo with narrow eyes, Cleo does the same.]
Annette: "Charlotte?" Charlotte glances at her mother before smirking at Cleo then leaves with her mom. Cleo scowls as she watches her go, eyes narrowed.
"Why are you two doing that? It's weird," Kim frowned. "Kind of looks like a standoff," Ash commented. "It looks evil, mean. Why are you being mean to her?" Elliot asked. "I don't know. I guess it's from our past interactions. Or should I say misunderstandings? Sorry, Cleo," Charlotte frowned at her onscreen self. What was she doing? "I think it's both. We were both pretty mean to each other after a hot minute. It's the future after all and I think we're here to fix it. So I'm sorry too," Cleo responded. "Let's hope we do," the redhead said.
"The jealousy is thickening," Bella mumbled.
"Teenagers," Denman humored. "Weren't you one like ten years ago?" Harrison asked. "We're not that bad," Cleo scoffed. "Future, remember? That's not the real us," Charlotte waved a finger. "Who knew there could be so much drama in just two days," Max chuckled. "There always is in the life of a mermaid," Mrs. Chatham laughed along.
"Alright, looks like that's the end of it," Will said as the screen darkened. "Please tell me it's over. I'd really like to be in my own bed," Kim whined. "Great, can we leave now?" Rikki huffed. "I hope so," Cleo sighed. She didn't know how much more of it she could take. "Is that it? Are we done?" Lisa asked, looking around. "Uh, I don't think so. The remote button is still glowing. And so is the screen," Lewis pointed at the two objects. "Ugh. We're going to be here for a while, aren't we?" Rikki complained before hopping up and heading to the buffet door. "Where are you going?" Emma watched her go. "If that's the case then I'm going to need some food. We're going to have a long night from the look of things," Rikki said as she shoved the door open and went inside.
"I guess we should do the same. Get some more energy in us before we hit the hay. If we stay here any longer that is," Neil stood up and glanced around. "All I hear is, free food," Ash smiled as he headed for the door.
The rest began to join him, as did Charlotte, but before she could make it to the door a voice stopped her. "Uh, Charlotte?" The redhead turned around to find Lewis standing there rubbing his hands nervously. "Um, can we talk?" he nods his head in the direction of the dorms. Charlotte gulps, nervous herself. "Sure," she reluctantly says, slowly walking toward the dorms with Lewis following a few steps behind. Neither noticing a pair of eyes watching them go.