Warning: This chapter contains violent content and sexual themes near the end. Reader Discretion is advised.

Chapter 12: Five Interviews and a Dream

The next morning in Lincoln's room...8:40 AM...

[Just before waking up, Ronnie Anne had one arm wrapped around Lincoln and clung onto him as if he were a body pillow.]

Ronnie Anne: [mumbling] "Please hold me. I'm scared."

[Ronnie Anne trembled as she talked in her sleep. The movement started waking Lincoln, and he thought he felt something between his thighs.]

Lincoln: [mumbling] "Uhhh...Ronnie? Who are you talking to?"

[Ronnie Anne opened her eyes in response.]

Ronnie Anne: "Wha? Where am I?...who are...why is my hand so warm?"

[As soon as they realized what was going on, Lincoln and Ronnie Anne yelled and jumped out of bed, with the former falling to the floor in shock. Afterwards, they started stretching until Lincoln stood up and spoke awkwardly.]

Lincoln: "Hey...r-remember that great feast we had at Jean-Juan's?"

Ronnie Anne: [scoffs] "You know it, Lame-O."

Lincoln: "We should hang out there more often. A-anyway, I'd better take a shower- I...feel so dirty."

[As Lincoln ran down the hall, Lisa (who was rudely awoken by the yelling) stuck her head out her bedroom door.]

Lisa: "Lincoln! I wouldn't enter the lavator- [sighs] forget it."

[Lincoln didn't hear her and went into the bathroom. When he turned the hot water on, he heard two unmistakable yelps come from the bathtub, causing him to yell out, as well. The curtain suddenly opened to reveal Bobby and a very angry Lori in the nude, one arm holding the curtain open, and the other covering her nipples.]

Lori: "WHAT THE FUCK ARE YOU DOING, YOU PIG?!"

[Lincoln blushed madly.]

Lincoln: "I-I-I was just-"

Lori: "GET OUT OF HERE! NOW!"

[Lori threw bottles, brushes, and other things at Lincoln, causing him to run out and shut the door as quickly as possible. He then turned to the readers, breathing heavily.]

Lincoln: "If you want my advice, take it now: Never walk in on any of your sisters in the bathroom. That is, unless you're ready to face the consequences."

[At that moment, Lincoln could her Lori puking on the other side of the bathroom door.]

Leni: "Lincoln? Can I, like...talk to you for a bit?"

[Lincoln snapped out of his thoughts when he heard Leni coming out of her room.]

Lincoln: "Sure, Leni...what's up?"

[Leni kneeled down to Lincoln's level and placed her hand on his shoulder.]

Leni: "I...I wanted to apologize for how I acted last week. I was just so heartbroken when Lori left home. Then, with Mom and Dad fighting, I just let my anger and sadness get the best of me. The person who kicked you out of the bathroom that day wasn't me. I'm...really sorry."

[Fighting back tears, Leni hugged her brother, and he reciprocated.]

Lincoln: "It's alright, Leni. You just didn't know how to handle a situation like this. You may not be very bright, but you definitely make up for it in kindness."

Leni: "Thanks, Linky."

[It took about eight seconds before they broke free from their hug.]

Lincoln: "So...if Lori moves out again, how are you gonna handle it?"

Leni: "I think I'm ready to accept it. I mean, It's not like she's gonna stay forever."

Lincoln: "We'll see how that plays out. But right now, let's just focus on how you're gonna tell Lori and Bobby."

[Leni looked down. She was worried about how Lori and Bobby would react when she told them about her attitude during the Parent Fight Protocol incident.]

[An hour later, everyone gathered in the dining room for breakfast. Ronnie Anne helped with the cooking, as she used to do it back at her house whenever her mother was inactive. Shortly after they ate, Lynn Sr. and Rita got up from their seats.]

Lynn Sr.: "Kids...your mother and I have to run a little errand, so Lori's in charge while we're away."

Leni: "Does this mean..."

Rita: "That's right, kids. Your father and I talked things out last night...so as of now, the Parent Fight Protocol has been lifted."

[The kids cheered until Lynn Sr. whistled, making them stop.]

Lynn Sr.: "Now, while we're gone, stay inside, keep all the doors locked, and don't open it for anyone unfamiliar...understand?"

Lori: "Dad, this literally isn't my first time babysitting everybody. We'll be fine."

Lynn Sr.: "We know, Lori. I just worry about my babies, is all."

[Lynn Sr. placed a hand on his eldest daughter's tummy as he spoke.]

Lynn Sr.: "Not to mention, this baby."

[Lynn Sr. was feeling misty-eyed.]

Rita: "We'd better get going, Honey."

Lynn Sr.: "Right, then...to Vanzilla!"

[As soon as they walked out the door, Lynn Sr. and Rita started discussing yesterday's events.]

Lynn Sr.: "Are you sure about this, Rita?"

Rita: "Well, we have to share our suspicions. I mean, I could be wrong, but I think Lydia and that dead woman might be connected."

[Lynn Sr. shivered with fear.]

Lynn Sr.: "Yeesh...I already hate that thought."

[They got in Vanzilla and started driving in the direction of the Royal Woods Police Department. The drive took about fifteen minutes, but Lynn Sr. and Rita finally arrived at the station. As soon as they went inside, they spoke with the desk sergeant, who had them take a seat while he notified the detective on duty. A few minutes later, two detectives approached the Loud parents. One looked to be in his late 30s, while the other appeared to be in his early 40s.]

Detective: "Good morning, folks. I'm Detective Castleton. This is my partner, Detective Kochner."

[Koch rolled his eyes in a cynical fashion.]

Castleton: "What can we do for you?"

Rita: "We came to talk about the woman that was found in the woods."

Lynn Sr.: "And we also want to make a child abuse report."

Castleton: "Alright, how about you follow us."

[Lynn Sr. and Rita followed the two detectives down the hall until they came to a door marked with the words "Interview Room 1". They walked in and the first detective motioned the Louds towards a couple of chairs at a table. Castleton sat across from them and pulled out a pen and notebook, while Koch stood by the wall next to Castleton.]

Castleton: "Would you please state your names for the record?"

Lynn Sr.: "Lynn Loud, Sr.."

Rita: "Rita Booke Loud."

[Koch chuckled and mumbled to himself.]

Koch: "...read a book."

[Castleton shot his partner a stern look before turning back to the Loud parents.]

Castleton: "So, what can you tell me about the victim?"

Rita: "Well...yesterday night, I saw a news report of the woman on my television screen and at that moment, my husband came home with our son, daughter, her boyfriend, and his sister. As soon as they walked in, I noticed that something was off."

Castleton: "Hold on, Mrs. Loud- what do you mean by off?"

Rita: "Well, it looked as if the kids- uh, I mean, all except for our son, had been involved in an underground fight club or something."

Koch: [scoffs] "The way I see it, maybe they were."

Castleton: "Quiet, Matthew!"

[Castleton turned back to the Loud parents.]

Castleton: "Mr. Loud? Can you tell me happened?"

[Lynn Sr. sighed.]

Lynn Sr.: "Well...it's not really pleasant to talk about. I mean, I had a really bad time."

Castleton: "I understand, Sir. Just...take your time."

Lynn Sr.: Alright...I was driving with my son to the Santiago residence because I wanted to talk to my daughter- uh, she was staying there with her boyfriend, Bobby, but when we got there, I saw her run out of the house in absolute terror. After I jumped out of the car and ran up to her, I looked at her face and saw that she had slap marks on both cheeks. I thought Bobby had hurt her or something, so I went towards the open door, and that's when I saw him on the floor with his father looming over him. It was at that point when I fully grasped what was happening, so I grabbed a chair from the dining room table and hit Bobby's father on the back of the head- then I told him to leave town and threatened to turn him in if he didn't comply."

Koch: "So...why didn't you?"

[Castleton turned to Koch and briskly shook his head before turning back to Lynn Sr..]

Castleton: "And how is this connected to the victim?"

Lynn Sr.: "Oh! Well, it's just from what little I've seen, Mr. Santiago is an abusive person who treats his kids like possessions...and I'm willing to bet he treated his wife the same way, as well."

Rita: "I hate to admit it, but...accident or not, we think Alex Santiago could also be capable of hurting- or dare I say, killing."

Koch: "Do you have any evidence to support your little theory."

Castleton: "Damn it Matth-" [sighs] "I'll meet you in the car."

[Koch smirked and walked outside, while Castleton turned back to the Louds once again.]

Castleton: "Sorry about that, folks. Anyway, we'd like to come by your house to interview your son and daughter, as well as Mr. Santiago's children, if that's okay with you."

Rita: "That'll be fine."

Lynn Sr.: "Sure thing."

Castleton: "What's the address?"

Rita: "It's 1216 Franklin Avenue."

Lynn Sr.: "What time should we expect you?"

Castleton: "Does 11 sound good?"

Rita: "Um...sure. I should be home by then."

Castleton: "Alright. Thank you, folks."

[After leaving the station, Rita drove her husband to work. When they arrived at the IT building, Lynn Sr. paused before getting out of the van.]

Lynn Sr.: "I really hope that woman isn't Lydia...I'd hate to have to break that news to Bobby and Ronnie Anne- not to mention the fact that I've let their cold-blooded killer of a father walk free."

Rita: "Lynn...you just didn't know what you were dealing with. But rest assured, if he did do anything to Lydia, he won't get away with it."

[And with that, Rita gave her husband a kiss before driving back home.]

Lynn Sr.: "I sure hope not."

Meanwhile, in Lori and Leni's room...around 10:30 AM...

[Bobby was standing against the wall watching Lori play with Lily on her bed, and Leni sat on her bed pondering about what to say to Bobby and Lori.]

Lori: "So, Leni...how have things been while I was away?"

Leni: "It was...sorta okay. I finally got my driver's licence after 15 tests."

Lori: "That's great, Leni...but what did you mean by sorta okay."

[Leni sighed.]

Leni: "Well...as soon as you left, like, the whole family was in chaos.

Lori: "Leni, it's always been chaos."

Leni: "But, not like what I saw. Mom and Dad fought for days! It felt like the house was going to be split in two."

Lori: "Really? How did you handle it all?"

[Leni sighed again.]

Leni: "You and Bobby are probably gonna hate me for this, but..."

[Tears formed in Leni's eyes as she muttered.]

Leni: "...I cast the blame on you guys."

Lori: "What was that?"

Leni: "I cast the blame on you guys!"

Lori: "Leni! Why would you do that?"

Bobby: "That's not cool, Leni."

Leni: "I'm sorry, Lori! It's just- the fighting really got to me. I didn't know what I was thinking- I was overwhelmed and heartbroken...and I got grounded for a week because of it. I'm a terrible person, aren't I?"

[Leni buried her face in her hands and cried. Lori got up and sat next to her with Lily in her arms.]

Lori: "Leni...you're not a terrible person. You were just misguided, that's all. The Leni I know is sweet and caring towards her siblings, even if she's a bit naive."

Bobby: "Lori's right."

Leni: "Thanks, Lori...I- we really missed you."

Lori: "I missed you guys too, Leni."

[And with that, Lori and Leni embraced. Just then, they heard a knock on the door. Lori answered it, and saw Lana.]

Lori: "What is it, Lana?"

Lana: "There's some strange men hanging around outside."

Lori: "What do you mean?"

Lana: "I mean they're standing there doing nothing. I think they might be spying on us."

Lori: "Well...what do they look like?"

Lana: "They both have black suits and sunglasses. Lisa's observing them from downstairs."

Lori: "I'll be right there. Come on, Leni" [turns to Bobby] "Bobby, I need you to watch Lily for me."

Bobby: "Sure thing, Babe."

[Lori and Leni went downstairs and found the others looking through the living room window with Lisa holding a microphone attached to a tape recorder. There was Castleton standing by the tree in the front lawn whilst chewing on a piece of peppermint gum, and Koch standing by their car smoking a cigarette.]

Luna: "I always felt like somebody was watching me."

Leni: "Maybe they're a little lost?"

Lola: "I highly doubt that."

Lisa: "Subject 1 appears to be chewing on mentha piperita liquidambar styraciflua...street name: peppermint gum...and Subject 2 appears to be smoking nicotiana tabacum...street name: tobacco. I only wonder if they're from the Central Intelligence Agency?"

Lori: "What? There is literally no way the CIA would spy on our house."

Lisa: "You can't be too sure. I mean, I have done a lot of questionable ethics in the name of science." [gasps] "What if they're waiting for me to go outside so they could take me in?! What if Mr. Santiago sent these men to get Bobby and Ronnie Anne?! I don't want to lose my family!"

Lori: "Lisa! Calm down! We'll just keep watch and see what they do. No conspiracy theories...understand?"

Lisa: "Unfortunately, yes."

Lola: "Lana and I will have a trap set for them at the front door...just in case they walk in."

[Lana had a rope ready for the suited strangers. At that moment, Lincoln came downstairs wondering what all the commotion was about.]

Lincoln: "What's going on, you guys?"

Lynn: "Heads up, Lincoln! We might have stalkers in our yard. Look!"

[Lynn grabbed Lincoln and pushed him into the window. He saw Castleton and Koch, and was at a loss for words.]

Lincoln: "Who on earth are those guys?"

Leni: "Maybe they're just lonely."

Luan: "Best not to come near them. These guys are the lone strangers. [laughs] Get it?"

[Everyone groaned as usual.]

Lori: "You guys keep watch...I literally need to piss like a race horse."

[And with that, Lori went up to the bathroom. After about 25 minutes, the kids saw Vanzilla pull up to the garage. Rita got out and greeted Castleton before leading him and Koch to the front door.]

Leni: [gasps] "Mom's been seeing someone else behind Dad's back!"

Lori: "Everyone, get on the couch!"

[Everyone gathered on the couch shortly before Rita opened the door and let Castleton in. (He told Koch to wait outside because of his smoking habit). As soon as Castleton walked through the door, a bucket of paint dumped all over Castleton.]

Lana: "Pile on the intruder!"

[The kids (minus Lori because of her condition) jumped on Castleton and tied him up.]

Koch: "FREEZE!"

[Koch stood at the doorway with his gun pointed at the kids.]

Koch: "I'm placing you kids under arrest for assaulting an officer of the law."

Castleton: "Koch, put the gun down before I report you for reckless behavior."

[Koch lowered his gun as Rita and Castleton glared at him. Rita untied the detective and he spoke to his partner.]

Castleton: "Look, Koch...just wait by the car. We can't have you making the RWPD look bad."

[And with that, Koch walked to the car whilst giving his partner a dirty look. Rita then turned to her kids, who were looking pretty guilty.]

Rita: "Kids...this is detective Castleton...he's from the Royal Woods Police Department."

[Castleton fixed his tie as he faced the kids.]

Castleton: "Pleased to meet you."

Lincoln: "Uh...hi."

[Just then, Castleton noticed the amount of girls in the room.]

Castleton: "Which one of these girls is your daughter?"

Rita: "All of them."

[Castleton was surprised, but spoke again.]

Castleton: "All of th- well, which one was at the Santiago residence last night?"

[Rita pointed to the blonde teen in the blue tank top.]

Castleton: "Alright, then."

[Castleton turned back to Rita.]

Castleton: "Could you all give us a few moments to talk? I'll be ready for your son shortly after."

Rita: "Okay, sir. Come into the dining room, kids. We have to let Lori speak with the detective."

[And so, everyone gathered into the dining room while Lori stayed on the couch. Castleton sat on a chair across from Lori and pulled out his notebook and pen.]

Castleton: "Would you please state your name?"

Lori: "Lori Santiago- I mean, Loud!"

[Lori covered her eyes in embarrassment.]

Castleton: "Just calm down, Lori. You're doing fine."

Lori: "Sorry about that. I've literally never been interviewed before."

Castleton: "It's fine, Lori. So, what is your association with the Santiago family?"

Lori: "Well...Bobby Santiago is literally my boyfriend."

Castleton: "Alright...and how would you describe his father?"

Lori: "Well, when I first saw him on a commercial for Santiago Superbikes, he seemed like a decent guy. But while me and my family had dinner at his house, he started acting strange while we were alone. The next day, when my boyfriend delivered a pizza at my house, he had a black eye. When he told me about his father at the mini golf course, our relationship literally reached new heights."

[Lori sighed romantically.]

Castleton: "Woah, woah, woah, woah! Slow down, Miss Loud. We're talking about your boyfriend's father, remember?"

Lori: "Right, sorry." [giggles] "So anyway, after I moved into Bobby's house, I've heard from his sister about what their father was capable of. This one time, Mr. Santiago beat his wife because Ronnie Anne was suspended from school. I even heard rumors that he was involved with a gang of bikers."

Castleton: "Have you actually witnessed him being violent?"

[A tear ran down Lori's cheek as she recalled last night's events.]

Lori: [sighs] "Yes. In fact, I was a victim of it. You see...I'm...pregnant with Bobby's child, and we've kept it secret from his father for over a week. But last night, he found out and...literally went ballistic. He would've killed my child if it weren't for Ronnie Anne. So, she bit her father's stomach, which gave me the chance to run out of the house like a chicken with an unborn egg. At that moment, my father and brother showed up and chased Mr. Santiago away. Lastly, we took Bobby and Ronnie Anne into our home. So, that's literally everything from my point of view."

Castleton: "So, what's your verdict of Alex Santiago?"

Lori: "Alex Santiago is an asshole, an abuser, and a monster who literally deserves to rot in jail for his crimes. For God's sake, he literally tried to murder my child!"

Castleton: "Alright, Miss Loud. That's all I needed to hear. Would you go get your brother? I need to hear his side of the story."

Lori: "Yeah, I'll take care of it."

[Lori got off the couch and walked into the kitchen where her family was waiting.]

Lori: "Castleton's ready to interview you, Lincoln."

[Lori walked over to Lincoln and stared darkly into his eyes.]

Lori: "...and you had better give him all you know, twerp! Or I will pound you into a human pancake!"

Rita: "Lori!"

[Lori turned and saw her mother glaring at her.]

Lori: "Sorry about that...I guess I'm just stressed from my interview."

[As Lori sat at the table and rested her head, Rita turned to her son.]

Rita: "Now, Lincoln, I need you to be on your best behavior for Mr. Castleton. Don't be afraid to answer any questions he might ask you. If you start to feel uncomfortable, just say 'I don't know'. You understand?"

Lincoln: "I guess so."

Rita: "You'll do fine, sweetheart. Now go and talk to the nice policeman."

[After getting a kiss from his mother, Lincoln walked into the living room and sat on the couch facing Castleton.]

Castleton: "You must be Lincoln, right?"

Lincoln: "Uh-uh...yes, you are- I mean, I am!"

Castleton: "Well, my name is Ian Castleton, and I'd like to ask you some questions about Alex Santiago."

Lincoln: "Gladly."

Castleton: "Great. So, how well do you know the Santiagos?"

Lincoln: "Well, Ronnie Anne and I are in the same class."

Castleton: "Oh, okay. So, you're classmates, or maybe friends?"

Lincoln: "Uhhhh...y-you could say that."

Castleton: "Have you ever been to her house?"

Lincoln: "Yeah, but not too often. We mostly just see each other at school."

Castleton: "Well, during any of the times that you were visiting, did you ever see her father?"

Lincoln: "A couple times."

Castleton: "Well, let me ask you this...did you ever see him...get angry, lose his temper, become aggressive...anything like that?"

Lincoln: "Well, only last night, when he tried to get the upper hand over my dad."

Castleton: "Interesting. Well, why don't you tell me about that."

Lincoln: "Well, when I found out that my father was going to the Santiago house to talk to my sister- she's been staying there ever since she and dad had a big fight over her pregnancy- I went with him. When we got there, I saw Lori run out of the house and up to the van. After my dad saw the marks on her face, he got out and marched into the house. I couldn't hear much because my dad told me to stay in the van, but I snuck out. I hid against the house and managed to hear Mr. Santiago threatening to call the police on my dad because he wanted to take Bobby and Ronnie Anne home with us where they would be safe."

Castleton: "I see."

Lincoln: "I decided to take action by..."

[Lincoln looked around before speaking in a hushed voice.]

Lincoln: "Are you good at keeping secrets?"

[Castleton chuckled amusingly.]

Castleton: "Very."

Lincoln: [hushed] "The week before, I'd taken Ronnie Anne's diary, and when I read it, I found out how cruel her dad was."

Castleton: "So, you took your friend's diary just to expose her father..."

Lincoln: "Well, I'm not really proud of that, but I couldn't just let Mr. Santiago win. Ronnie Anne's my friend, and I didn't want her and Bobby to suffer anymore. Plus, my sister and her child were also in there, and that would weigh too heavily on my conscience."

Castleton: "Well, I think you're a good friend, Lincoln. In fact, I think you'll make a great uncle, too."

[The detective stood up and tousled Lincoln's white hair.]

Lincoln: "Thanks, Mr. Castleton."

Castleton: "My pleasure, son. By the way, do you know where Bobby Santiago is?"

Lincoln: "He's in Lori and Leni's room, but they have a security system installed. I'll just tell him you're here."

Castleton: "That would be a great help."

[Lincoln got up from the couch and went upstairs. As soon as he approached Lori and Leni's room, he knocked on the door, and Bobby answered in a matter of seconds, holding Lily.]

Bobby: "Hey, little Loud. What's up?"

Lincoln: "There's a detective downstairs who wants to interview you."

Bobby: "A detective, you say? Uh...okay, Bro. I'll be right down."

[Bobby handed Lily to Lincoln and started making his way downstairs, where he was greeted by the waiting detective.]

Castleton: "Are you Bobby?"

Bobby: "Yeah. That's me."

[Castleton pointed to one of the chairs across from him, and Bobby sat down.]

Castleton: "Do you know why I'm here?"

Bobby: "Not really."

Castleton: "I understand your mother's whereabouts are unknown at this time. I'm sure you want to find her as much as we do, so I'm hoping you can offer some insight that might help us locate her."

Bobby: "Well, yeah...I'll do what I can."

Castleton: "Alright, I'm gonna ask you some questions, and I need you to be as forthcoming as possible."

[Bobby nodded, and Castleton prepared to take his statement.]

Castleton: "What can you tell me about your father?"

Bobby: "Well...he...w-what do you wanna know?"

Castleton: "Bobby...I need you to be honest. It's real important that you help me out here."

Bobby: "Look...he's not all bad. I mean, maybe he's a little strict, and he loses his temper sometimes, but-"

Castleton: "Listen...why don't you tell me about the altercation between you and your father last night? I want to help you and your sister, but I need to know what happened, alright?"

Bobby: [sighs] "Okay...so my father's got a dark side. When he found out my girlfriend was pregnant, he started punching me like loco."

[Bobby lowered his head as tears welled up in his eyes.]

Castleton: "It's okay, son. You're doing great."

[Bobby smiled weakly and nodded.]

Castleton: "Bobby...what kind of relationship did your parents have? Did they get along? Did they ever argue?"

Bobby: "Well, she tries to please him...I-I think she's afraid of him...actually, we all are."

Castleton: "When was the last time you saw your mother?"

Bobby: "Last night. From what I heard from my girlfriend, my parents went out for a drive, but only my father came back."

Castleton: "So, you're saying your father came back without your mother..."

Bobby: "Well...yeah."

Castleton: "Bobby- and this is very important...do you have any idea where she could be?"

Bobby: "Well, no-"

Castleton: "What about a friend or a relative?"

Bobby: "NO- she would never just...not come home!"

[Bobby slumped down in frustration.]

Castleton: "It's okay, Bobby. You've been a great help. I'll be in touch."

[Castleton started to get up just as Bobby blurted out.]

Bobby: "Wait... Maybe you should talk to my sister about this. I think she could be of better help."

[Castleton sat back down.]

Castleton: "Okay. I'd like to do that. Is she here?"

Bobby: "Yeah- she's upstairs. I'll go get her."

Castleton: "I'd appreciate that."

[Bobby got up and walked upstairs to Lincoln's room where Ronnie Anne was laying on the bed reading one of Lincoln's Ace Savvy comics.]

Bobby: "Uhhhh, Nie-nie?"

Ronnie Anne: "Yeah? What is it?"

Bobby: "There's a detective here, and...he wants to ask you some questions."

Ronnie Anne: "Is this about Mom?"

Bobby: "Uhhh...well, I...yeah, sorta?"

Ronnie Anne: "Alright, I'm coming."

[Ronnie Anne dropped the comic book and headed downstairs where Castleton was waiting.]

Castleton: "Hey, young lady."

Ronnie Anne: "Don't...call me that."

[Castleton was taken aback by Ronnie Anne's brash attitude.]

Castleton: "Listen...I know you're worried about your mother, and I want to help, but I need you to help me. Would you do that?"

[Ronnie Anne sighed and rolled her eyes.]

Ronnie Anne: "I guess so..."

Castleton: "Is there anything you'd like to share?"

Ronnie Anne: "Alright...my father is an awful person. He's done nothing but mistreat me, my brother, and our mother for years! Is that what you wanna hear?!"

[Stunned by the latina girl's unexpected reaction, Castleton paused for a moment before continuing to take notes.]

Castleton: "Look...I know this is tough, but please know that I'm on your side."

[Ronnie Anne sighed.]

Ronnie Anne: "Yeah...sorry about that. It's just that-"

[Castleton put his hand up and interrupted.]

Castleton: "Please...there's no need to apologize. You have every right to be upset."

[The detective got up from the couch and started gathering his belongings]

Castleton: "I'm gonna head back to the station, but before I go, is there anything else you want to add?"

[Ronnie Anne took a deep breath]

Ronnie Anne: "Yes...I think my father might've..."

[Ronnie Anne struggled with her words]

Castleton: "Take your time."

[Ronnie Anne took another deep breath as her eyes started welling up with tears.]

Ronnie Anne: I...I think my father might've done something to her. I just can't-"

[Ronnie Anne buried her face in her hands and wept.]

Castleton: "Sweetie- we'll do everything in our power to find your mother. You have my word."

[Ronnie Anne nodded and wiped her eyes. Castleton went into the dining room.]

Castleton: "Mrs. Loud, would you mind telling your kids to wait in the living room? We need to have a talk."

Rita: "Right." [turns to her kids.] "Kids, why don't you help Ronnie Anne."

[The kids gathered into the living room and tried to comfort Ronnie Anne.]

Lori: "Don't cry, Ronnie Anne. Hopefully, they'll find your mother."

Ronnie Anne: "I'm not crying, alright! I just need some time alone."

[And with that, Ronnie Anne ran upstairs. Lincoln wanted to follow her, but Lori stopped him.]

Lori: "I think it's best that we give her some space."

[Just then, Castleton and Rita emerged from the kitchen.]

Castleton: "Well, thank you for your time, Mrs. Loud...we'll be in touch."

Rita: "You're welcome, Sir."

[Castleton turned to the children.]

Castleton: "...and thank you, Lori and Lincoln...you've been very cooperative."

Lori: "Anything for my Bobby Boo-Boo Bear."

Lincoln: "Yeah...I really hope you find Ronnie Anne's mother."

Castleton: "I hope so too, son."

[And with that, Castleton went outside where Koch was waiting.]

Koch: "You don't actually believe these people, do you, Cas? I mean, how do we even know that woman could be Mrs. Santiago?"

Castleton: "Look...from the statements we got from Mr. and Mrs. Loud, this woman has to be Lydia Santiago. Also, the statements from the kids pretty much adds to the evidence."

Koch: "I'm telling you, it could just be a coincidence. There's just no way that two people can connect a news report to an experience with some abusive scumbag."

Castleton: "Don't say that...there are children involved in this case, and I'm not just gonna let it remain unsolved."

Koch: "Whatever...it's just my honest opinion. Now, how about we stop at Burpin' Burger on the way back? I'm starvin'."

Castleton: [sighs] "Why do you always think about food when we have a case to solve?"

[Castleton and Koch got in their car and drove off. Back inside the Loud House, Rita went back into the dining room to talk to her kids.]

Rita: "Okay, now that wasn't so hard...was it?"

Lincoln: "Of course not. I just wanted to help Ronnie Anne."

Leni: "Mom...I have to ask you something."

Rita: "Yes, Honey."

Leni: "Were you going out with that Castle-Ton guy before you and Dad made up?"

[Rita laughed.]

Rita: "No, Leni. Castleton's just here to help find Bobby and Ronnie Anne's mother."

Leni: "Oh... Well, I just thought because you and Dad haven't been speaking to each other."

Rita: "Well, that isn't the case. You know your father and I still love each other, no matter what happens."

[Just then, Rita got a text from her husband, telling her to come pick him up.]

Rita: "I'll be right back, kids. I have to pick up your father from work. Once again, Lori, you're in charge of everyone."

Lori: "Okay, Mom."

[As Rita left the house, the kids smiled amongst each other, knowing full well that things were getting back to normal...almost.]

[That night, everyone was fast asleep. However, as Bobby laid in Lori's bed with her, he couldn't help but worry.]

Bobby: [thinking] I hope Mom's okay. She's been gone for too long.

[Then, Bobby closed his eyes, and fell asleep. As he did, he started dreaming.]

Dream...

[He opened his eyes. Bobby looked around, and saw that he was laying down in a garden of some kind. When he got up, he saw that he was wearing nothing but a fig leaf on his front parts. He is then approached by Lincoln and Ronnie Anne, who were also wearing nothing by leaves on their privates. Ronnie Anne also had her hair untied, so it flowed in front of her nipples.]

Lincoln: "Come on, Bobby!"

Ronnie Anne: "There's someone we want you to meet."

Bobby: "Okay, but...do you guys have any clothes?"

Lincoln: "Clothes? Where we're going we don't need clothes."

[Lincoln and Ronnie Anne both took Bobby's hands and led him to the most beautiful sight ever. There was Lori in the nude, sitting on the grass and holding a small naked baby in her arms.]

Lori: "Come meet our child, Boo-Boo Bear."

[Bobby had tears in his eyes as he walked over to Lori. As soon as he was next to her, he wrapped one arm around her waist and the other around his child.]

Bobby: "I don't ever want this moment to end."

[Lincoln and Ronnie Anne put their arms around each other as they watched their older siblings enjoy their moment of peace.]

[Just then, Bobby noticed another figure walking towards them. It appeared to be a naked woman in her early 40s. She, like the others, had a leaf covering her vagina, while her hair rested strategically over her breasts. Bobby wasn't sure, but he thought he recognized the figure.]

Bobby: "Mama?"

Lydia: "Hola, mijo."

[There was no doubt about it. The woman looked just like Lydia. With the baby in his arms, Bobby walked towards her and she embraced her son.]

Bobby: "Oh, Ronnie Anne and I missed you so much."

Lydia: "I missed you too."

[As soon as they broke free, Lydia noticed the child.]

Lydia: "Is that-"

Bobby: "Yes...this...this is your grandchild."

[Bobby handed the baby to Lydia, and she smiled warmly. But to Bobby's horror, the woman suddenly snapped the baby's neck and it fell to the ground. Bobby dropped to his knees and stared at the lifeless fetus.]

Bobby: "No! Mama, Why?!"

[As the sky turned red, the woman started chuckling and it turned into laughter, while her voice became deeper before she suddenly morphed into a demonic man that resembled Bobby's father. Bobby started moving backwards until he fell on his bare butt.]

Alex: "You think you can protect these fucking parasitos?!" [laughs] "You've been hanging out with the wrong crowd!"

Bobby: "Why are you doing this to me?!"

Alex: "Because I own you, Junior! And I can do whatever I want with you, your sister, and your mother!"

[Just then, Alex began to turn red while horns started emerging from his head. Bobby watched in terror as his father laughed manically and grew to about 50 feet high. Alex then looked down at his son, his eyes now black with glowing red pupils and crying blood, while his voice was now distorted.]

Alex: "So, who has the balls in this family?! ME! And there's nothing you can do to change that!"

[The demon Alex lifted his foot and stomped on Lori, crushing her under his massive weight.]

Lincoln: "Lori!"

Ronnie Anne: "Run for it!"

[Bobby and Ronnie Anne started running, but Lincoln stayed behind to face the monster.]

Lincoln: "I won't let you hurt them!"

[In response, Alex just stepped on the naked white-haired boy and started chasing after his children.]

Bobby: "Come on, Nie-nie! You have to keep up!"

[Bobby looked back to see his sister suddenly being lifted off the ground by their father.]

Ronnie Anne: "Help me, Bobby!"

[At that moment, Alex crushed his daughter in his fist. Blood dripped down his arm and onto the ground as he smashed her around in his clenched hand. When Bobby looked back again, all that was left of his sister was blood and guts.]

Bobby: "NO! Nie-nie!"

[The very sight of it all forced Bobby to slow down and fall to the ground in tears.]

Alex: "Look at you, Junior! You're nothing more than a pathetic worthless pawn who just gets pushed around by everyone around you!"

Bobby: "What did we ever do to you?!"

Alex: "I think it's obvious, puto! No matter how many times I try, you people just never listen! Well, I think the world would be better off without you!"

[Bobby could only watch as his father's foot started coming down towards him.]

Back in reality...

Bobby: "NOOO!"

[Bobby shot up from bed, abruptly awakening his girlfriend from her slumber.]

Lori: "Bobby?! Whats going on?!"

[With tears in his eyes, Bobby turned to Lori, hugging her tightly.]

Bobby: "Thank God you're still here."

Lori: "Of course, Boo-Boo Bear. Why wouldn't I be?"

Bobby: "I had this really awful dream where my dad made you all disappear. He said the world would be better off without me."

[Lori wrapped her arms around her boyfriend and leaned against him.]

Lori: "Bobby...it's okay. He won't hurt you again- I promise."

[Feeling the warmth from Lori, Bobby smiled and wrapped his arm around her in response. As he did, he felt Lori's stomach.]

Bobby: "The little one's coming along well, isn't he?"

Lori: "Or she."

Bobby: "I know that. We'll just say 'it' for now. In the meantime..."

[Just then, Lori felt Bobby's hand move lower, until it went inside her underpants.]

Lori: "Oooh- Bobby, what are you doing?"

[Lori could feel Bobby's fingers digging into her vaginal area.]

Bobby: "It's just my way of saying thanks."

Lori: "Ah...for what?"

Bobby: "For always being there when I need you. Besides, I have to do something to help me sleep again."

[Lori moaned as she felt her womanhood being tantalized. It felt wrong, but Lori enjoyed it.]

Lori: "Oh, Bobby...don't ever stop..."

[Aroused by Lori's moans of ecstacy, Bobby started to go faster. After a few minutes, Lori moaned as she felt her underwear becoming increasingly wet.]

Bobby: "That felt good, didn't it?"

[Lori turned to her boyfriend and kissed him on the lips.]

Lori: "Literally...you really know how to please a woman."

[Just then, Lori moved right on top of Bobby. Then she lifted her shirt exposing her tits to the excited latino boy.]

Lori: "Go on, Boo-Boo Bear...you know you want them."

[Bobby sat up and planted his face right between Lori's breasts, causing her to moan again as she put her hands on Bobby's shoulders.]

Bobby: [muffled] "I do..."

[Bobby licked his girlfriend's chest and and felt all around her body. Lori lifted her head back as Bobby continuously made her moan.]

Lori: "Oh, Bobby."

[After another minute, Lori laid back down on her side and noticed the tent that had been pitching in Bobby's boxers since he aroused her.]

Lori: "Ohhh, I think someone's ready for his big finish."

[Lori pulled them down and out came Bobby's erect penis. She grasped it in her hand and opened her mouth before Bobby stopped her.]

Bobby: "Wait...w-what about Leni?"

[They both turned and saw Leni fast asleep in her bed. (It was a wonder she hadn't woken up when Bobby yelled.)]

Lori: "She's a very heavy sleeper...she literally won't notice a thing."

[And with that, Lori opened her mouth again started sucking on Bobby's chorizo.]

Bobby: "Ay mierda."

[Bobby put his hands on Lori as she kept sucking for about two minutes. The faster she went, the more turned on Bobby became. Finally, Bobby groaned as he came all over his lover's face.]

Bobby: "Oh man."

[Lori wiped her mouth before licking her boyfriend's semen off of her palm.]

Lori: "Was it good for you as it was for me?"

Bobby: "Well...It was pretty great."

Lori: "I know it's not much, but we're literally in my family's house. Until we have a place of our own, we have to be more careful."

Bobby: "I understand, Babe...I just can't wait for us to do more stuff together."

Lori: "Neither can I."

Bobby: "I'm just glad Ronnie Anne and I are safe here. Your family...they're all such good people."

[Bobby kissed Lori and they both laid back down.]

Bobby: "Te amo, Lori."

Lori: "I love you too, Bobby Boo-Boo Bear."

[Bobby cuddled with Lori before they fell asleep. Aside from his little sister, there was nothing he would love more than to be with Lori Loud...the love of his life, as well as the mother of his unborn child.]

[After stirring for a while due to the noise, Leni looked over in Lori's direction and caught a glimpse of the two lovebirds on the other bed.]

Leni: "That is, like, super adorable. I'm totes saving this."

[Leni sat up, grabbed her cell phone, and took a selfie with the loving couple in the background.]

A/N: Wow! I've been working on this for a whole year?! How time flies by so quickly. Thank you for your support throughout. It means so much to me. :D

Also, I probably won't be active as much, because I also have a part time job as a voice actor.

Ellis97: Of course not.

KRUSA1: How did you survive all of that?

Austin couture: Thanks a bunch.

RealMilesifyStudios: The baby is basically the plot device of my story.

Jacksonangelo105: As always, thank you.

Guest 1: Is this your idea of a side story?

Petunia Green: The story doesn't end until the baby is born.

Lentex: I didn't spend two years listening to Mr. Enter for nothing. ;)

ClearwaterMK2: No, the gang won't attack yet. Just wait until near the end.

Colonel Donut: You're welcome.

Guest 2: I'm glad you enjoyed that.

Dragonbat362: I know, right?

Lanvenian: Alex will return soon, but not immediately. I'm just so glad you like Bori.

Guest 3: Maybe he will eventually.

TheLoudSheep: Indeed it is in some parts.

Marauder of Our Stars: As OOC Leni was, she wouldn't go that far.

The Keeper of Worlds: Well you're gonna get more.

Gamelover41592: Indeed.

Austin couture: Indeed you can't.

Guest 4: I might do something like that, but it's not until near the end.

Guest 5: Something big is coming. But don't expect it this early in the story.