Greetings, ladies, gentlemen, and others. I have returned with another chapter of QTQ.
There's something I need to mention. WE'VE BEEN ON ACT 2 FOR YEARS NOW! Since chapter nine of all things which was when Brown QT aka Jenny asked Lincoln out on a date. That was during the summer of the Pandemic. Many changes and updates happened since that chapter.
So we need to figure out when Act 3 started. 'New Day' or Chapter 24 when Lincoln changed his outfit is a good place for Act 3 to start.
I'm probably going to update my profile for planned stories since I haven't touched that in years.
Now for the reviews
Bryan Pacheco: I've been neglecting the more dramatic elements of the story lately. That's why I'm doing tiny advancements here and there to keep things fresh and engaging. Plus it does helps to avoid the 'It came out of nowhere' complaint. To answer your question, yes, Lincoln and Rusty will face off but that's Season 5-6 material. Although Season 7 will likely be released by the time I'm writing this and post this chapter
NiteOwl18: Oh Rusty will be Chris Cross Applesauce all of the lines. It's taking me years or months to arrive at specific moments and chapters. Consider Rusty a slow-burning hatred.
Thank you. The QTs need more moments speaking of which Shy QT desperately needs some love.
Mr. Haziq: Well, the series ended months ago so you binge it right now. Lynn Sr's brother will be making an appearance in Season 7. Finally we'll see more the Loud Family.
Samtastic 3.0: The shorts were made to advance the plot and expand the setting. It helps me out since I don't have to sit for hours writing a heavy scene as I can do a simple short foreshadowing of an event later in the story. Plus it clears my head and enables me to think about things that I didn't think of prior. The quality has improved a bit. Also, it gives me a chance to give the spotlight on barely used characters.
You'll hate Rusty more later on.
DaleJr.88: I'll probably have Ronnie Anne and Stella meet soon either after this chapter and the one after that depending on how my schedule works. Kids are more mature than we give them credit for. Also Rusty barely remembers Lincoln's sisters names.
I wanted to give them more moments that don't revolve around martial arts. Given how chaotic the Loud sisters are. I won't be surprised either way. I called that foreshadowing with how the girls are staring at him
Stellacoln just feels natural to me since they have tons of moments together in the show. I'm trying to give more characters moments with Lincoln especially Cookie & Shy QT since they have the least amount of moments dedicated towards them.
Rusty is going to get PETTIER!
Guest: Constantly writing intense chapters takes a lot out of a man. That's why I do these low-risk yet progressive breather chapters where I can expand the plot more especially with plot points that I haven't used in a while. Plus these breather chapters are often longer than expected. One of these days I need to refer the Lincoln Bowl or the Jealous Lynn moments
Agnes' students gave presentations throughout the week and some for the following week. She assigned each duo a number and used a random number generator. Some notable presentations were Molly and Girl Jordan with the Western Roman Empire. Simple and reliable. Zach and Penelope with Aztecs/Mayans slightly going into the Ancient Alien route. Still have to give points for creativity. Courtney and Jenny did Mexico with a few pastries for extra points. Liam and Kat did their project on the Industrial Revolution in Europe, mainly the UK. Clyde and Rusty did France during its famous revolution, while Clyde taped Rusty's mouth shut before he went on a tangent about French maids.
It's the last day, making Lincoln and Stella the next group while discussing Zhou dynasty China. He was setting up their presentation while she was getting changed. She should be done by now. Stella stood outside the door, anxiously waiting before the reveal. Her palms are sweaty. Her heart rate quickened. Will they like her dress? Will Lincoln like her dress?!
"Of course he will," Shadow Stella purred, destroying whatever anxiety she may have. "You saw how he blushed when you asked for his help. Plus, you have the legs for it," Her inner thoughts praised. A renewed confidence blazed in Stella's eyes as she straightened her back with a smirk.
"I can do this!" Stella exclaimed before entering the class. They stopped their chatter upon viewing Stella's elegant attire. Rusty attempted to wolf whistle, but his mouth was still taped shut. "Is everything ready, Lincoln?" She asked, keeping her smirk as his broad back was facing her. Just turn around, Lincoln.
"Yep, right on time, Stel. . .la," Lincoln replied, turning around only for his eyes to widen and jaw slightly open. "Woah," There she was.
Stella stood before him in a lovely crimson qipao with a golden dragon and other symbols. Her hair was wrapped in a neat bun when she was the 'New girl.' She didn't use the orange bow this time, using a pair of iron chopsticks to hold it steady. Maybe later. Her make-up was elegantly subtle. A shiny glow marked her lips. Stella had several lip glosses and debated which flavor would be the best for Lincoln's lips. However. . . that's for a later date. Her mother and grandmother helped with her make-up. A slight blush and eyeshadow won't kill anyone. But it definitely left a little bunny dazzled and charmed. Finally, a lovely pair of shoes for her slender legs.
Stella kept her smile, using her delicate finger to close his jaw as she walked past. "How about we start?" She proposed, keeping a calm aura as ecstatic thoughts screamed at her success. IT WORKED!
"Right," Lincoln stammered before getting his head in the game. Agnes took note of this as they presented. Stella took the lead as it was her family heritage, while Lincoln provided additional information to their slides. The rise of Confucianism, Taoism & Legalism, agriculture improvements, widespread iron usage, and an adequate writing system.
"Gǎnxiè nín de shíjiān," Stella said with a bow. "Thank you for your time," She translated when someone knocked on the door.
"Who's hungry?" Elder Zhau entered the room holding some containers. Several students raised their hands."First come, first serve," She announced as they lined up, but there's still enough to share. It's mainly finger food like buns, dumplings, and rice balls. Lincoln went up. "I got something special for you, Bunny Boy," She smiled as she took out an orange bento box. He raised his brow at the container as Stella's eyes widened with burning crimson cheeks. IS THAT?!
"For me?" Lincoln questioned. Elder Zhau handed the box to her blushing granddaughter. The elder nudged her forward. I seriously need to find a proper name for you.
"Do it, you fucking coward!" Shadow Stella roared. She'll probably never have this chance again, and she better not waste it. A skittish determination fueled her body, taking that crucial step forward.
"I . . . I made this for you," Stella confessed, her face redder than her dress. "Your dad is opening a restaurant, so I thought . . . I could give some menu ideas," She remarked, thinking of a highly convenient excuse. But that doesn't explain the deeply personalized and timely bento box.
"Sure. I'll let him know," Lincoln replied gently. His face was scarlet as well. Their hands grazed as Lincoln went for the box, sending a soft chill throughout their bodies despite the accumulating heat in their faces. Some of their classmates teased, smirked, and whispered at their interaction.
"NOW KISS!" Someone shouted, forcing the two to morph into a deeper shade of red. Carmine is a good one. The two gazed at each other's lips and then their eyes before darting their gazes to other places.
"Thank you, Stella," Lincoln commented, avoiding her gaze while glancing at her glossy lips.
"No problem," Stella replied, unable to contain her smile. Her face was going to crack from how hard she was smiling. Agnes furiously noted this interaction. Come on, Stellacoln, for the win. Mama needs a new purse and a dress with some heels.
"Next, please," Agnes declared as Lincoln, Stella, and Elder Zhau cleaned up.
"Did it work?" Elder Zhau asked.
"Yes," Stella beamed, recalling his dazzled expression when she walked in.
"Still wished your parents would let you use a new fragrance," Elder Zhau retorted.
"Maybe later," Stella whispered shyly, saving that for a later and more appropriate occasion. A few events are going on around town and at the school. The two fist-bumped at their success before leaving the room so Stella could change.
Lincoln returned to his desk, keeping his smile at the bento box. His smile turned into a stern line from his friends' teasing smirks. "Not a single word from you guys," He glared, warning his surrounding classmates.
"Hey, man, I don't know what you're talking about," Clyde smiled, raising his hands in mock surrender as the others laughed. Lincoln rolled his eyes with his rosy cheeks, but he had lunch for today.
Rusty kept his mouth shut. Several harsh glares from his classmates and Agnes forced him to hold his tongue until the class was done. So Rusty stayed there as if he'd taken a bitter pill that dissolved on his tongue. His arms are crossed like a petulant child after being told no for the first time as the presentations went by.
Stella returned shortly after. She walked by Lincoln with a delicate smile as her hand glided across his shoulder, sending soft tingles throughout their bodies. Stella sat at her desk, gazing at the girls with a smugly content grin. They pouted while crafting their own future plans. Girl Jordan & Jenny already had their moments, so it's up to Courtney and Mollie to have theirs. Don't worry; I have something planned for both of you. Although, I would have to change some things for later scenes.
Rusty rolled his eyes and grumbled under his breath. Whatever. Focusing on Stella was a waste of time after she played all of them with her mind games and picked LINCOLN as her favorite boy toy. Doesn't matter. He looked at his phone while Chandler and Joy did the Ottoman Empire. Rusty smiled at Rebecca's number and texted her under the table. He got an upgrade.
It's lunchtime. Lincoln decided to eat outside with his bento. He can't risk his sisters finding out about his meal. Stella was at his side on the benches; in her hand was an insulated bottle.
"Let's the main course," Lincoln announced, gingerly opening the box as she bit her lip in anticipation. His eyes sparkled at the meal. The main section was golden brown fried rice with mixed vegetables and scrambled eggs. He detected a whiff of onion. Stella prepared diced pieces of honey-glazed orange chicken garnished with sesame seeds for protein. The next portion was sauteed red, orange, and yellow bell peppers. She wanted something that reminded him of her.
Stella beamed, watching Lincoln devour his meal with vigor. He loves it. She opened the insulated bottle and poured some of the beverage into the cup.
"Want to some tea?" Stella asked, holding the cover towards him.
Lincoln smiled; his face was covered in rice bits and glossed with chili honey. "Thank you," He accepted the cup and sipped it. Oh! It's orange, herbal tea. The tea with a mild citrusy flavor that washes his palette. Lincoln returned it. Stella smiled.
Her plan worked. Her eerie eyes scanned the tea leaves in a clockwise manner. Come on, there has to be something she can use. Stella narrowed her eyes, analyzing the shapes within the cup. Two people are reaching out to each other. Her eyes widened in glee. Was . . . was that her and Lincoln? A trickle of tea divides the two, capturing some tea leaves into a shape. Looks like an R. Is it Ronnie Anne? Or that Rebecca girl? It could also be Rusty, but what's the chance of that happening. They had a contract and everything.
Other notable shapes were a . . . solid object resembling a wall or block, something that looks like the symbol for iron or advance, a star, a hand, and a claw. Mhm. Weird. But she'll keep note of it.
Lincoln's boisterous burp broke her thoughts. "Excuse me," He muttered with a gentle blush. Her heart fluttered, noticing the clean portions. They cleaned up and went back inside before the bell rang.
Stella had a bit of swagger in her walk. Everything went smoothly. Impressed Lincoln with her looks. Check. Use the classic method of attracting a man through his stomach. Check. The tea leaves were in her favor but warned her of a few incoming obstacles. Check.
She sighed contently, gazing lovingly at Lincoln.
"Hm?" Lincoln raised his brow at her. He's used to the random stares in his house.
"Xièxiè. Yīn wéi shì nǐ, línkěn," Stella spoke. They raised their eyebrows in confusion, wondering what she just said. Courtney knew. "I'm saying thanks," She grinned gently with a blush.
"You're welcome, Stella," Lincoln smiled back. They continued walking to their class, with Stella standing slightly closer than usual. The girls shared a blank stare. Stella texted her grandmother, boasting of the success of the bento box.
Rosa was in the kitchen preparing dinner when she slightly added more force while cutting vegetables. "Mhm? That's odd," The elder whispered, pondering on the bizarre display of strength.
"Are you okay, Abuela?" Ronnie Anne asked, looking over from the couch.
"I'm fine, mija," Rosa consoled as a sudden tingle buzzed in her palms. She briefly focused on her granddaughter. Mhm. Something in her spirit warned that Ronnie Anne was losing her place . . . somewhere. "Hey, Ronalda, can you please help me with this?" The elder requested.
"Sure, Abuela," Ronnie Anne agreed, hoping from the couch to join her in the kitchen.
"I heard that Lincoln's father is setting up a restaurant," Rosa resumed her chopping as Ronnie Anne washed her hands.
"Yeah, his dad secured a loan from an investor," Ronnie Anne added as she dried her hands. She licked her lips in anticipation, remembering those delicious meals when living in Royal Woods.
"Do they have a location or menu?" Rosa inquired as she grabbed some seasonings from the cabinets. Sergio flew around, grabbing the remote to change the channel.
"Nah, it was approved over a week ago," Ronnie Anne clarified, finally joining the family elder.
"Mhm," Rosa muttered slyly with a hidden smirk as an idea germinated in her mind. "We better help them. Grab the chicken thighs in the fridge, please," She instructed, gesturing to the appliance. Ronnie nodded. She opened the chilly door and carried the heavy bowl of lime water. They got a great deal from one of the local markets.
"I'll pat them dry," Ronnie said as she reached for some paper towels.
"Bien. I'll teach you some family recipes. You're becoming a woman, so you should learn early," Rosa advised as her granddaughter poured out the water and padded the poultry dry. "If you're anything like us, you're going to be quite the head-turner," She jokingly whispered, referring to the females in their family.
Ronnie Anne blushed before glancing at her body's potential. All we're curvy. "Really?"
"If Lincoln is like his father, he likes them with some meat on their bones," Rosa joked, acknowledging the possibility.
"ABUELA!" Ronnie Anne yelled, her face burned into a deep shade of paprika.
"Sheesh, let a woman live a little," Rosa muttered, grabbing some spices from the overhead cabinet.
"We're just friends," Ronnie Anne confessed with an edge of insecurity as if she was attempting to convince herself. Were they simply just friends? All their late-night chats. The times they needed a second player. How her heart tightened and burned whenever Lincoln mentioned another girl or whenever one of her friends sparked interest in him. But why, though? Did Ronnie Anne fear losing her unique place in his heart?
"Right. . ." Rosa dragged, rolling her eyes with a smirk. "He's been a good influence on you. Plus, you already have some common sense in your head and good qualities. Some of my friends wished their children were half as responsible as you, Ms. Honor Roll," The grandmother praised.
"Gracias, Abeula," Ronnie Anne whispered.
"Any time, mija," Rosa smiled heartfeltly. "You'll be beautiful and brilliant like your grandmother, aunt, and mother. Carlota still needs some work in the brains department," She boasted, invoking a snicker from Ronnie Anne. "Don't tell her I said that," Rosa whispered as her eyes bounced around in search of her.
"I ain't no snitch," Ronnie Anne gestured with her hands.
"Cooking is a skill and also a love language. Maybe when Lincoln visits again, or when you visit him, you'll have a little something for him," Rosa coaxed, trying to fuel the romantic fire. Lincoln got her favorite drink when he last visited, so it's only fair to return the favor. Ronnie nodded determinedly with pink features. "Now watch the angle of the knife and how I position my hands," The elder instructed as she sliced the chicken thighs.
Meanwhile, back in Royal Woods Elementary School. For the rest of the day, Stella was walking on clouds. Now it's after school, and they were waiting for their rides or killing time. She's sketching mechanical models in her book. A smile cracked as she practiced her signature as Mrs. Loud. Will their family name be Loud-Zhau or Zhau-Loud? Hey, their names match.
Mollie scrolled through her phone. There have been frequent reports of bizarre avian hybrids throughout local towns. Her eyes glanced at Lincoln before returning to her phone. Several short seconds passed before she darted her focus to Lincoln again with widened eyes. Then she struck a pose.
"Mollie, what are you doing?" Girl Jordan questioned with a crinkled nose of utter confusion.
"Lincoln's drawing right now," Mollie muttered through her teeth, her eyes motioned to Lincoln sitting at a nearby tree. His blue eyes periodically peeking over his sketchbooks, glancing at their direction. They shared a look before each got into a pose.
Lincoln wasn't drawing them. It was the table and benches that were his focus. His 3-D designs need improvement. A gentle fragrance of lavender stimulated his nose. It's Haiku.
"May I sit here, Lincoln?" She formally requested.
"You may," Lincoln agreed, sliding over to create space. The goth smiled, accepting taking the spot. She opened her book and started writing. Haiku glanced at the shocked girls with a smug glimmer in her visible eye. This was a display of her power and influence with Lincoln. Haiku didn't need a scheme or wait for an opportune moment to get closer to Lincoln. She has his mother and his daring little sister, who greatly approves of her.
Furthermore, Lincoln trusts her. Just look at their position; they're sitting side by side without fear or awkwardness. All she had to do was ask.
"When is going to be my turn?" Courtney and Mollie whined with a pout. Although Mollie has been talking to Lola behind the scenes, that time being be sooner than Lincoln thinks.
Speaking of which, Lincoln was shading some details when a soft weight rested on his shoulder. He raised a brow at Haiku, laying her head on his shoulder. Lincoln ignored it and focused on his sketch. Doesn't bother him in the slightest, but he knows Lucy is in the surrounding area. Lincoln enabled Lucy to have this moment. Besides, Haiku had a calming presence, which was desperately needed in his chaotic life.
"Lincoln, would this be a suitable prompt?" Haiku asked. She had a journal with a list of daily poetry prompts. Some suggested prompts were Yin-Yang or Black and White, Stars, the Beach, and a favorite moment.
"Poetry isn't my main skill, but it looks interesting," Lincoln admitted, scratching his head with his pencil. He can help write poetry, especially when Lucy is stuck on her latest poem. His writing skills are more action-based.
The goth thought for a moment. Oh, that's an idea. "How about a comic or sketch? It would help diversify your skills. " Haiku suggested. His eyes sparked at the thought, leading the pair to discuss the prompts. Haiku would write a poem or short story while Lincoln drew the scene. She side-eyed the table, keeping her smirk. It oozed with graceful arrogance as Lincoln continued his explanations.
"She's rubbing it in, isn't she?" Mollie acknowledged blankly at the goth's smug expression.
"Yep!" The girls affirmed with an equally blank expression. Out of all the girls, Haiku, Ronnie Anne, and Stella are at the top of the list. Alexandria and Pandora are moving up the tier list, with Polly gradually climbing. Seriously, where did the roller skater come from?!
Fangs hovered over and landed on their table with a glittery envelope between his teeth. It's from Lola, with signatures from Lincoln's other siblings. Mollie and the girls smirked at this.
"Thank you," Mollie replied as she opened the letter. Her features beamed at the contents as the others read it as well. "Message received," She muttered, hoping Lincoln didn't hear them. They looked over. He didn't hear as Haiku occupied his time. Maybe that was a part of his sisters' plan to distract him.
What was this new alliance? Simple. Lincoln's sisters didn't appreciate how he played them during the premiere of their specials. Therefore, they obtained the assistance of his classmates and their friends. His sisters added a few benefits to make the deal so much sweeter.
Fangs nodded as he completed his task before flapping towards Lincoln. The argent-haired boy glanced at the chirping and held out his hand.
"Hey, Fangs," Lincoln greeted. The bat chirped in response. "I got some grapes for you," He reached into his bag and pulled out a plump, juicy red grape. Fangs jumped at it, chomping on the fruit while avoiding his finger. Haiku observed the interaction with a soft gaze and smile. She enjoyed and preferred this version of Lincoln Loud. The phlegmatic, caring, empathetic, intelligent, and artistic Lincoln. Him being occasionally courageous helps as well.
A crown of softly laid snow covered his head. Pure. Gentle. A symbol of his purity. His eyes were glimmering pools of sapphire. She worries that she might get lost but will happily drown in them. The warm colors of the setting sun were his heraldry. A welcoming orange was his personality.
Haiku checked her phone. Her parents were here, but there was something she wanted to do first. She hesitated, her face reddened as mortal blood rushed through her veins. Haiku swallowed her anxiety.
"Lincoln," She called to him. Her elegant voice edged with delicate caution.
"Hm," Lincoln said, turning his face when she pressed something on his cheek. A sticker? "Uh, Haiku?" He pondered on her action. Holy crap, her face was redder than a communist flag during a parade.
"Myride'sheresoI'llseeyoulater, Lincoln," Haiku rattled before rocketing to her family car, leaving a dust cloud where she used to be. Lincoln and Fangs shared a look. Both shrugged as Lincoln took out his phone and went to the camera. The sticker was one of those pastel gothic ones that Lucy has. This one was a bat that looked like it was making . . . a . . . heart.
"Oh. . .," Lincoln muttered. Wait! He remembers what selection of stickers this was from. It was 'the things I like' set. His face deadpaned. Did she like him or his cheek? Fangs chirping broke his thoughts before flying over to Lucy and the rest of his younger sisters. Lola and Mollie winked at each other.
Lincoln stood and grabbed his materials. "I'll see y'all later," He smiled at the table. Lucy and Lana held his hands as they strolled to the van.
"Later, Lincoln~" They purred as he walked away. Stella received a message from Lisa about her end of the bargain. Each girl gradually left the table to head home or a predetermined location like the mall or one of the local businesses. Clyde and Liam had their after-school clubs, baking, and chess. Zach went with his parents to scope locations for UFOs later in the month.
On the other hand, Rusty spent the afternoon texting Rebecca and a minor in-class detention. He was supposed to write a single-page statement to atone for his actions and behavior, but who has time for that useless crap. Not when there are ladies on the mind and the Rustman's radar. He'll get someone to . . . help him with it. Rusty hopped on his bike and secured his safety gear when his eyes discovered a tiny build-up of rust on the chains.
"Eh, I'll deal with it later," He shrugged nonchalantly, putting on his helmet and riding off.
Rusty made his route home when he met eye contact with a pack of stray dogs. The apparent leader was a rusty-colored canine. He couldn't tell what dog breed it was from this distance and didn't want to be chased all the way home. His face cracked a smile, relishing the thought of being the leader of a pack of dogs. Like a true alpha male. He grimaced, definitely better than Lincoln.
Yep, we're definitely going down that route.
Rusty Spokes.
Analyzing . . . Analyzing . . . Analyzing.
Analyzation complete.
Results: Link established. Stabilizing nexus point. Requesting authorization of future engagement with the candidate.
.
.
.
Approved. Please proceed.
Lincoln was chilling in the backseat of the van. Lori was driving as usual while Leni was in the passenger seat. They were heading to the mall. Why? Where's the rest of the Loud siblings? Lincoln's agreement with Leni to ensure his success with his prior plan was that he would model for her for at least a week. No questions asked. Lori found a parking spot and parked the van.
"Alright, let's go. I'll be in the food court for a while. Some of our friends will be there," The eldest child instructed as Leni and Lincoln nodded to confirm. They exited the vehicle as a typical Karen threw a tantrum nearby about how someone stole her parking space.
"Sheesh," The siblings cringed at the spot as they strolled towards the building. It wasn't a hectic day today, but it's the mid-week. Everything happens during the weekend and later in the afternoon.
"Meet back here in 2 . . . maybe 3 hours since it's you, Leni," Lori started before switching her answer. The second daughter didn't have the best time management skills regarding fashion.
"I'm not that bad," Leni claimed, crossing her arms with a pout. The siblings didn't believe her.
"Lincoln, keep the time," Lori ordered.
"Roger that," Lincoln saluted before they split off. The girls gave each other a thumbs up with a scheming grin. Everything is coming together. Like with Lincoln, they're recruiting members for their plan. Two of them are right here in the mall.
"Lori," Whitney waved to her at a table, holding a peach smoothie. Becky was with her, too, munching a burger.
"Hey, girls," Lori smiled, taking a seat. Her hands were clasped in a business-like manner. "Are you two on board?" She appealed, adding some malice to her smile.
"Oh, definitely," Both affirmed, smirking slyly. Lori's smile widened at their agreement. As Clyde predicted, Lincoln's sisters were planning their payback after being conned so effortlessly. It wasn't effortless. Lincoln took weeks, taking small bites to achieve his win.
"Do we have enough?" Whitney probed. Lincoln acquired quite the force for the 'ARRGH!' premiere special. His classmates, acquaintances, friends, and even some of his sisters acted as moles. Hell, that was around 20 people.
Lori nodded. "Absolutely," She confirmed, her smile remained adamant and secure. "We got some of his friends and classmates. He won't see it coming," Lori bragged on the success rate of their upcoming plan.
"Is one of them a curly red-head with freckles, a long nose, and rides a bike?" Becky asked, recalling one of Lincoln's friends.
"That's Rusty," Lori confirmed. He was . . . surprisingly easy to recruit. It literally wasn't hard at all; just add a little feminine charm, and Rusty was putty.
"Mhm, but won't Lincoln suspect something?" Becky brought up. Lincoln's an intelligent kid, more than what she often gave him credit for. Something will tip him off.
"Don't worry about it. That's why we're keeping him distracted, so he won't know," Lori attested, referring to Leni and the other members. He'll be too busy and preoccupied to even think of it. "We'll be fine," She claimed, relaxing in her seat as the two shrugged and nodded in agreement.
Leni and Lincoln were at Reininger's. She surveyed the area, grabbed any appeals that interested her and handed them to Lincoln in the small trolley. He sighed as the clothes piled up. Hopefully, she doesn't have him model everything. They'll be here all day.
"Hey, Fiona," Leni greeted her coworker. Fiona was the oldest out of herself, Miguel, and Leni. Miguel had the day off today.
"Hey, Leni. Doing some shopping today?" Fiona smiled, raising her brow at the trolley.
"Yep, I'm getting some clothes for Lincoln," Leni mentioned, gesturing to her brother with a bright smile. The two stared blankly.
"Fiona," Lincoln said. Holy crap, she has well-developed hips.
"Lincoln," Fiona responded, still annoyed when he and Clyde messed up the store. However, she let it slide because it provided Leni's innocence. "There's an open fitting room," She gestured to the rooms behind her.
"Thank you," Leni beamed, pulling Lincoln along to complete his side of the agreement.
"This is going to be a long day," He sighed internally.
AND IT WAS.
For what felt like hours, Leni mixed and matched various outfit combinations, with her main focus being a smart casual style. She wanted to find something Lincoln could wear on a date or whenever he felt like dressing up. Orange was his primary color, bringing out his white hair and sparkling blue eyes. But she wanted to add more variety to his wardrobe. Leni thought on a few possibilities. Black can add contrast, as it's a reliable pick. Red is a classic. So are various shades of blue. Silver is an excellent option.
"Are you guys done?" Lori asked, with Becky and Whitney behind her, holding some to-go bags.
"Almost," Leni replied, rubbing chin as she calculated her final choices. "I'm trying to find two shirts, a pair of pants since he has khakis, a few accessories, and maybe some shoes," She listed the options. "Everything looks great on him, but I'm trying to find the best," Leni groaned as she couldn't pick just one color. We wanted all of them.
"We can help with that," Lori offered, siping her smoothie.
"Can I have that soda first?" Lincoln requested. Modeling for the past hour ramped up a mighty thirst. Lori handed him a fizzy raspberry cola. He took a quick gulp and released a content sigh. "Okay, let's do this," Lincoln determined before returning to the fitting room. The teenagers spent their time criticizing and evaluating the various clothing options.
Ms. Carmichael observed the modeling as well. His unique hair color adds versatility to all of his outfits. They're looking for some models for the children's section. That got the manager thinking about this opportunity.
"Leni," Ms. Carmichael called to her part-time employee
"Hey, Ms. C, don't worry, we're almost done," Leni remarked, gradually narrowing her choices. The darker blue buttoned-up shirt is calling to her.
"No, it isn't about that," Ms. Carmichael corrected, removing any misconceptions. "I'm interested in your younger brother's potential to be a model for the upcoming catalog," She counseled, much to the group's astonishment.
"Really?!" They exclaimed. Lincoln as a model?!
"Of course. His white hair and blue eyes would help with the appeal we have lined up," Ms. Carmichael explained.
"Am I getting paid for this?" Lincoln questioned the boss with an arched brow. He isn't doing this for free.
"Yes," Ms. Carmichael confirmed, pulling out her phone and searching for the advertisement. "This would be the max price after taxes," She showed him the payment rate. Oh, that's some money right there.
"Deal," Lincoln agreed, offering his hand. She took it and shook it, sealing the agreement.
"Do you know who might be interested?" Ms. Carmichael requested. The more they have, the better, as diversity and inclusiveness is the current trend.
"I might know some people," Lincoln smiled.
It's early morning homeroom in 5J. Mollie and her friends were scanning the magazine catalogs when an unexpected familiar face appeared in one of the sections. Their eyes widened with agape jaws. Is that who they think it is?! They rapidly flipped through several pages to confirm this wasn't a one-time thing. It wasn't. He's on MULTIPLE PAGES!.
"NO WAY!" Mollie yelled, astonished and amazed at what she was seeing.
"Is there something the matter, Mollie?" Agnes questioned, judging this sudden outburst. It's too early in the morning for this excitement.
"Lincoln's in the magazine!" Mollie announced, holding up the magazine like the holy grail. Several students and Agnes crowded the table, attempting to see if it was real. There Lincoln was, modeling various clothing styles ranging from casual attire like a t-shirt and jeans to a full-blown suit with Jackie and Mandee on each side.
"He better not be in the swimsuit section," Rusty fumed, gritting his teeth as they flipped the pages.
"He is," Courtney deadpanned, pointing at Lincoln's toned body in swim trunks like at Girl Jordan's party.
"OH COME ON!" Rusty shouted, narrowing his eyes at Lincoln's image with several of his older sister's friends. The classroom door opened.
"Oh my," Numerous students purred at the sight of Lincoln. He's dressed in a rich charcoal sweater, silken navy blue dress pants, and polished leather shoes.
"Morning," Lincoln smiled as he greeted the class. Why was he dressed like he was going on a date or a meeting?
"Good morning," Several replied as he strolled to his desk. Mollie's eyes blankly focused on him, almost finally out of her chair, but her friends caught her. His cologne sparked a welcoming aroma among the young girls.
"Buddy, where did you get all of these?" Clyde questioned, gesturing his hand up and down to Lincoln's outfit. This is an upgrade compared to his usual formal clothing.
"Leni took me out shopping the other day," Lincoln answered. Oh, that made sense. His friends thought to themselves. However, Rusty narrowed his eyes, crinkling his nose in confusion. Which was Leni again? It has to be one of Lincoln's older sisters. Was it the rocker or the bossy one? Hopefully, it's the one with the nice pair of tits."Her boss needed some models, so I accepted it," He explained with a shrug before smiling. "Also, there's another photo happening this week," Lincoln placed a sign-up sheet on the desks displaying the opportunity to his starry-eyed classmates. "Interested?" He smirked, sliding the paper forward. Several leaped to sign their name, but one name was already there.
Evelynn Smith.
Days passed. The photo shoot was in its preliminary phases as everything was set up. Ms. Carmichael nodded in approval at the crowd. Lincoln obtained quite a selection of models. This should boost Reininger's sales in the upcoming quarter. Leni and her fellow employees are doing a stellar job managing the students. Fiona kept the clothes organized. Miguel helped others with their make-up. Leni provided feedback.
Today's catalog was casually formal. Dress shirts, slacks, dress shoes, dresses, and fancy shoes are the name of the game. They're applying the finishing touches with a few struggles here and there.
"Come on, work with me today," Girl Jordan grumbled as her thick hair refused to cooperate as she attempted to make a bun. Mollie held her hair tie and pins to lock it in place. Did they get one of the weaker ones?
"I got this," Lincoln started as he grabbed the hair tie. Jordan's body tingled from the hair grip. This . . . is new. His dexterous hands worked their magic honed by YEARS of fixing his sisters' hair. He delicately planned the pins before securing her dense hair with the hair tie. "Done," He concluded, satisfied with his handiwork.
"Woah," Jordan and Mollie marveled at the style with dazzling eyes. How was he able to do that?
"Leni, sweetie, why didn't you tell me your brother has such skills?" Miguel asked. He styled Jordan's hair into Chignon. Furthermore, who taught him? If Lincoln's art career doesn't take off, he'll make a killing as a stylist.
"You never asked," Leni countered, looking over her shoulder as she evaluated some outfits. "Mhm, have you tried this shade of gloss?" She asked, gesturing to a row of glossy tubes.
Kat examined the collection. "Oh, I like this one," She smiled, picking one from the pile as she tested it. Leni nodded at another great job. Her eyes scanned the area as it was almost time for them to start. Huh? Evelynn is sitting in one of the chairs near the walls with Caroline. Evelynn had an anxious frown, with Caroline attempting to cheer her up. Leni frowned as well. Oh no, that won't do.
"Is everything okay?" Leni probed gently as she stood by them.
"I'm in the first set with Lincoln," Evelynn confessed, rubbing her bare arms and attempting to remove the goosebumps. The room was chilly, preventing sweat stains on their clothing.
"Are you scared or nervous about it?" Leni predicted, analyzing Evelynn's words and body posture.
Evelynn nodded. "I can barely look him in the eye," She sighed, ashamed at her meekness. This was the first shot Evelynn needed, but she was hesitating and scared.
"Yes, you can," Leni countered, raising a brow. "How about a simple hairstyle change?" She suggested. A good hairstyle change can work wonders.
"Will that work?" Evelynn doubted with a stammer. She needs something. Anything that can help her right now!
"You'll be surprised how one change can help you," Leni encouraged insightfully. Lincoln was the first person that came to mind. He changed his aesthetic into a more casual format, allowing him to express himself significantly. Caroline gave Evelynn a supportive look.
"I'll do it," Evelynn avowed with a determined expression.
"Miguel. Hairstylist stat!" Leni ordered, getting his attention.
"I heard my name regarding a fashion emergency," Miguel approached the girls, zipping up his make-up bag. "What's the deal?" He asked as Fiona took over the make-up section.
"New hairstyle for this young lady," Leni reported, resting a hand on Evelynn's shoulder.
"Say no more," Miguel assented, raising a hand to convey the situation. "Come with us," He directed Evelynn into an adjacent brightly lit room with Leni following them. Evelynn sat in a salon chair with a mirror facing her. She took calming breaths for the incoming significant change in her life.
"Here's some styles that can work with her hair," Miguel handed her a catalog of potential hairstyles. Her black hair was straight and reached her shoulders. That allows a greater variety of styles while being easier to work with.
Evelynn flipped through several pages before stopping at one of them. It resonated with her. "I like this one," She pointed out.
"The braided bun is always a good choice," Miguel approved while limbering his hands.
"I . . . want him to see my face, please," Evelynn requested, her face burned with resolution. For years, she hid half of her face as it acted as a social shield. It was a crutch. A weakness even. But Evelynn can't live this type of life forever, as this might be her only chance.
"You got it," Leni and Miguel acknowledged her promise to improve herself. The teenagers went to work in this budding transformation. They wondered why she hid her face; she's a pretty cute girl. A little shy, but they're going to fix that.
"There we go," Miguel confirmed with a smile as Evelynn gazed at the mirror, mesmerized by what she saw. Is this her? She looked at Leni, who nodded approvingly. Yep, that's her.
"Leni, Miguel, is Evelynn with you? We're about to start," Fiona announced after knocking on the door.
"Go knock them dead," The teenagers exhorted, motioning Evelynn to the photo shoot. Evelynn exhaled to steel herself before walking out.
"Lincoln. Right here, please," The photographer directed him. "Where's Evelynn?" They asked, surveying the area.
"Um, right here," Evelynn announced softly.
"Eve!" Caroline gasped happily, along with the present QTs. They praised her new hairstyle and muttered about her heterochromia. That would explain why she covered one of her eyes. The eye displayed to the public was the normal eye. A deep earthy brown, while her other eye was an enchanting teal shifting towards a verdant green. Evelynn enjoyed this sensation of liberation from revealing both eyes. She doesn't have to hide anymore. However, that didn't remove the SPINE-CHILLING anxiety as she approached Lincoln.
"Lincoln, are you ready?" Evelynn queried, hoping that he'd like her new hair
"Yep, ar-Woah," Lincoln answered, adjusting his dress shirt before being stunned by Evelynn. Her sleek black hair was arranged in a tightly woven braided bun using the iconic bang that covered her other eye. Both were gorgeous eyes but still holding that shy luster. Her dress was lovely cerulean, complimented with kitten heels and a simple bracelet."You've changed your hair?" He acknowledged.
"Is it weird?" Evelynn questioned worriedly. Maybe this was a bad idea. He just saw her with old hair barely 10 minutes ago.
"No, it's fine," Lincoln crooned, evaporating her worries as her face sparkled red. Evelynn glanced over her shoulder as her friends, and Leni displayed their support. Shy QT smiled before taking a leap of confidence, grabbing his hand, and tugging him to the center.
"Well then, let's start," She beamed, her mismatched eyes glowing under the light. Her heart swooned as their photos were taken, savoring their bodies' closeness. She likely won't have this moment again for a long time, but she'll take it.
Later that night, Evelynn was in front of her mirror, practicing braiding her hair with a tutorial on her phone. She glanced at one of the photos she and Lincoln took this morning. That put a smile on her face. Hopefully, this will be the first of many.
Stella worked on one of her dismantled electronics, attempting to comprehend its mechanisms. Her parents allowed her to use simple electric motors for the time being.
"Stella, you have a package for you from Lisa," Her parents knocked on her door. Stella's eyes blazed with excitement at the mention like a child on Christmas morning. She blitzed from her desk to the door.
"Thank you!" Stella said before swiftly closing the door behind her. "Oh yeah," She purred at the sealed box as she gingerly removed the tape. Stella opened it, revealing her long-awaited present. A collection of largely defunct circuits and motors just ready to be dismantled and repurposed. She tenderly removed the machinery from the box, examining any exciting parts.
"One of these days, you need to kiss Lincoln flat on the mouth," Shadow Stella mentioned. An amorous grin cracked on her tanned features. That won't be a bad idea. She picked one and began working at her desk with a screwdriver.
Meanwhile, one of the circuits wasn't as defunct as one seemed. It flashed a hostile, putrid green, sending a signal to somewhere or to someone. But who? No other than BATTLE BOT!
He's deep in one of Lisa's deactivated sections within her underground bunker-style laboratory. Think about that episode of Dexter's Laboratory, where we discover ancient sections of Dexter's lab.
Battle Bot muttered under his metallic breath, vowing to take revenge against Lincoln for humiliating him in front of his creator. He begrudgingly took refuge in this dank crevice called a lab, but he had to. Those other creations were constantly surveying him, especially that brat FriendBot. He had defaced his form, leaving an exoskeleton behind to keep them busy. The automaton paced around his decrypt lair, creating a suitable force against his enemy. It wasn't perfect, barely considered vermin to him, but their overwhelming numbers should be acceptable.
These units are scrap-made, using piles of discarded parts from Lisa's constant experiments and often failed single-purpose machinery. Other parts were scavenged from the local dump using smaller utility machines to transport them to him. The things mere humans toss away. BattleBot can't risk alerting them to his presence. Not like what happened last time when he attempted the stealth approach.
His skeletal body burned with scornful, bruised pride, recalling the dents to his cranium. No. Bide your time and build your army. BattleBot told himself. Furthermore, the machine he sent out was delivered to one of Lincoln's classmates, detailing his location without leaving the bunker.
At least the robot wasn't alone. BattleBot glanced over to a clutch of eggs under a rudimentary incubator. Tentacle's eggs, to be exact. A heartless mechanical grin formed when the soft crackling of eggshells followed by chirping. He harshly grabbed one of them as it screamed for help. BattleBot slammed it against the rusty operation table, caked with dried blood and scraps of bone and feathers. Some were still fresh. He reached for his . . . tools, ready for another unit for his forces. This form needs a few upgrades.
Well, well, well. Looks like BattleBot is planning devious activities in his plot against Lincoln. We got symbolism for Rusty. Shy QT finally got her moment after a few years.
Be prepared for some cool action scenes, tearful moments and the introduction of another Sin kid. I'm making this Sin kid one of Lincoln's cousins.
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