A Wish on a Full Moon Chapter 79-In Hot Water (part 2), a h2o: just add water fanfic

A Wish on a Full Moon

I do not own H2O: Just Add Water or any of the characters.

Chapter 79: In Hot Water (part 2)

[The next day at the Marine Park, Mrs. Geddes, Laurie, and several other trainers were gathered around the pool, one that was lifeless and empty of any fun.]

Mrs. Geddes: "You're absolutely sure he's not in the main pool?"

Laurie: "Definitely. He's not in any of the pools." Lewis walks out of the supply room with a box of cones and scoops.

"They found out," Cleo gave a sad sigh. "They were going to find out eventually," Denman said. "Which means maybe they can find him sooner," Emma said a bit optimistic. "You know that they won't be able to find him. Not that fast. It has to be you girls," Mrs. Chatham remarked. "Cleo would be the only one that would recognize him. She knows him best," Elliot said.

"No Ronnie means no shows, meaning less money for them. That's all that she cares about," Bella narrowed her eyes.

Lewis: notices them gathered nearby. "Good morning." Starts walking again when they speak up.

"I really should learn to keep my mouth shut," Lewis bit his lip. "Why?" Elliot asked. "Elliot, he was the last one to be around the gates and they have proof. They're going to blame him," Kim said. "But it wasn't his fault," Elliot frowned. "No, but they'll blame me anyway," Lewis sighed. Like others do.

"Not very good, it seems," Annette said. "You always choose bad times to talk," Rikki commented. "And you always choose bad times to get involved," Lewis snarked.

Mrs. Geddes: turns to his walking figure. "It's not so good, I'm afraid." Lewis puts his stuff on the stands.

Laurie: "Ronnie's gone missing." Mrs. Geddes and Laurie walk over to him.

"That probably baffled them. For one of their 'main attractions' as she calls it to just disappear out of nowhere," Charlotte said. "Laurie would care about him more than Mrs. Geddes. He does for all of the animals," Cleo said. "You two have so much in common I'm surprised he's not your boyfriend," Lewis joked but then stopped when Cleo gave him a stern glare. "Don't push it, Lewis." "Remember what you said earlier about learning to keep your mouth shut?" Zane whispered to him.

Lewis: turns to them. "You're joking!"

Laurie: "This is hardly a joking matter."

"Why would he joke about that?" Bella asked. "Why do you think everything's a joke?" Annette asked. "It's a saying," Lewis exclaimed. "Maybe you need to learn to stop saying that as well," Lisa said lightly.

"It's as serious as can be. Ronnie's missing," Cleo fiddled with her fingers nervously.

Mrs. Geddes: "We need to ask you some questions." Gestures for him to follow as she walks.

Lewis: "Yeah, sure. Fire way." Walks with her. Laurie follows behind as the two trainers watch him closely.

"Don't answer those questions," Harrison warned. "Whatever you say will be held against you, remember that," Neil agreed. "You make it sound like I'm in court," Lewis said. "You pretty much are. With Mrs. Geddes as the judge, this is Marine Court," Ash joked. "It's not a joking matter, Ash," Emma said, using the same tone as Laurie did a moment ago. "They're already suspecting you," Bella said. "Who else would pull a stunt like this?" Lewis sent daggers at the two blonde mermaids.

Mrs. Geddes: "Do you remember seeing anyone suspicious around the dolphin ponds yesterday?"

"Answer wisely," Neil said. "She might be testing you," Don said a bit suspicious. "Why?" Lewis asked. "To see if you lie to her or not. Which, you probably will, since we know you'll protect the girls at all costs. Thank you by the way," Bev stated.

"Well in truth, there were only two suspicious characters. But they weren't around the dolphin ponds, they were in it," Lewis whipped his head toward them. "It's the only way in," Rikki shrugged. "By tail. But by feet you can walk like everyone else," Terry argued.

Lewis: "No. Didn't see a soul. Well, I saw some souls, but they didn't look suspicious."

"It's the truth," Lewis shrugged. "Are we suspicious?" Emma asked. "No, you're the prime culprits," Lewis stated bluntly.

Mrs. Geddes: stops and turns to him. "And what were you doing near the underwater gate control?" Laurie stands beside him, puts his hands on his hips, and narrows his eyes suspiciously at him.

"There it is," Lewis sighed. "Whatever you say, she's never going to believe you," Kim shook her head. "Laurie's pretty suspicious too. If he found out something happened to Ronnie or any of the other marine life, he'd find anybody as a suspect," Cleo mentioned. "And who's the easiest to blame besides the newbie?" Bella said. It happened anywhere. Not just jobs, but the new kid always gets blamed at school too, that's why it's always easier to be picked on by bullies. Lucky for her, she never had to deal with that when she was younger, not when 'weird' stuff always happened around her. Perks of being a mermaid, she'll say.

Lewis: shakes his head. "Nothing. I swear."

"No, you were talking to them," Annette gestured to the two girls. "I can't tell them that. It's already bad enough I'm going to be in big trouble. Imagine if I told them I was talking to two mermaids. I'd either be famous or in the nut house," Lewis remarked.

"Although their reactions to talking to mermaids would be amusing," Rikki thought with a grin. "You're not telling them," Terry warned. "I'm not going to do it. I'm just saying, if my future self were too," she shrugged. "Your future self is already causing enough trouble with your dumb ideas. Don't make anymore," Cleo dismissed. "Hey, you followed along some," she argued. "And look where it got me? You see I've stopped, haven't I?" Cleo raised a brow. Rikki bit her lip. She knew Cleo was more snappish due to the loss of Ronnie. If he didn't come back, she might never be the same, future and present.

"That's a lie," Elliot said. "Well, I can't tell them the truth either," Lewis told him. "Well, you were talking to some fish. Just not the kind they're expecting," Will joked. "Ronnie's a dolphin, a mammal, not a fish," Denman said as if it were obvious.

Laurie: points at the control panel, getting angry. "Did you open the gate?"

Lewis: turns to him. "No. I wouldn't know how to, and even if I did, I wouldn't do it."

"But the control panels are underwater. He was completely dry when she found him," Charlotte frowned. "There are levers on top as well. There's one for every pool that is connected to the ocean. The only ones that are actually hand-operated are pools connected to other pools. Like the ones it showed when we first met Ronnie," Cleo explained. "Then what's the point of the underwater controls?" Bella asked. "For the rescue divers, when they're guiding rescues or injured animals to the Marine Park ponds," Cleo remarked. Huh, better not ever try that then, Will thought.

"I'm sure you could figure it out," Max said. "Not helping," Lewis said. "Can't help with the future kid," he replied.

Mrs. Geddes: "Really?"

Lewis: "Really."

Mrs. Geddes: narrows her eyes in suspicion. "Maybe you'll reconsider your version of events when we show you the security footage." Walks away, expecting Lewis to follow. Laurie glances at him then tags along. Lewis looks stunned then glances down at the control lever. He glances back up then quickly follows along.

"If I didn't know about the security cameras then, I definitely know now," Lewis commented. "Why does that surprise you?" Sam asked. "Maybe because Cleo's never mentioned cameras before. I should've known they had to be new; I know Cleo's been swimming in there before a few times and she's never been caught," Lewis frowned. "Once. I've swam with Ronnie once," Cleo gave him a look. "That we know of," Bev mumbled.

"Sounds like they've already looked at it before," Terry sighed with a shake of his head. "They set you up," Lisa gasped. "What do you mean?" Emma asked. "They've already seen the footage, so they knew he had to have something to do with it. So, they had all those questions prepared, with witnesses, and decided to wait until you showed up to work instead of calling you when they found out," Sam summarized. "They knew he would show up already," Cleo realized. "I wanna say clever, but the word cruel sounds right," Lewis thought.

[The group of co-workers return to Mrs. Geddes' office where they watch the security footage of the day before. The first part of the footage shows Ronnie swimming around in his pond.]

Lewis: "Is this really necessary? I mean …" Shakes his head with his arms crossed, nervous. Mrs. Geddes stands at her desk with a remote pointed at the monitor. Her and Laurie look at Lewis suspiciously, the latter standing in the back of the room. Gestures to the monitor. "things always look weird on security footage."

"You're clearly nervous," Denman studied. "I'm being investigated by my boss for something I didn't do and there being possible footage of my friends as mermaids in the water. Who wouldn't be nervous?" Lewis remarked. "I am. Both for you and Ronnie. While this is all going on, no one's looking for him," Cleo said in concern. "They might have some crews out searching the nearby waters," Bella suggested. "And if they send an alert out, us fishermen can be looking for him too. I know I would," Don nodded.

"Like they'll believe you on that," Ash sighed. "Two mermaids would look weird on security footage," Terry glared at his daughter. "Not so much in a Marine Park. I mean, a mermaid could be considered as part of the show," Will considered. "Not if the people working there knows there are no mermaids in the show," Cleo told her.

Mrs. Geddes: "Quiet, Lewis." Points the remote at the monitor and presses the button, turning the volume up. Lewis gulps and stares at the monitor.

"Another way of her saying to 'quit your rambling'," Rikki joked lightly, only to fail in bringing Cleo's spirit up.

"In a way, you two are kind of similar," Lewis rubbed his chin. "What, in looks?" Rikki asked in offense. "No, in attitude," he said. "Eh, I can see it," Zane tilted his head. "I can hear it," Terry chuckled.

"You're really worried about us," Emma said with a small smile. "He's more worried about you two being in the footage than his own trouble," Lisa turned to her. "He's afraid you girls might get exposed when you girls weren't. As a true friend should, they worry more about their friends than themselves," Neil added. "That's what we did though. We're trying to help Cleo," Rikki mentioned. "But you forgot about your other friend in the process, Lewis. You didn't think about how this would affect him," Mrs. Chatham inputted.

[Mrs. Geddes switches the camera footage around until she finds the one of Lewis at the bridge near the control panel, talking to something down below. He glances around then puts his hand on the panel.]

Mrs. Geddes: pauses the footage. "There." Lewis closes his eyes and lets out a silent sigh in regret. "Explain that."

"How can I? My hand's clearly on the panel. She's going to blame me no matter what comes out of my mouth," Lewis sighed in defeat. "But it's not your fault," Kim frowned.

"Don't know whether it's a good thing or not she doesn't install underwater cameras. Good because it doesn't show the girls. But bad that Lewis is the one being held responsible for this," Harrison said. "Are you kidding? Good, of course. Lewis will find a way out of this," Zane frowned. He didn't want any more footage of Rikki and his friends getting out. Never again. "Don't give them ideas!" Don yelled.

"Nothing much to explain. Other than he's not messing with the gate and is talking to mermaids," Charlotte scoffed. "The camera never lies they say. What a joke," Harrison humored.

Lewis: glances at her then the monitor with a shrug, acting confused. "What?"

Mrs. Geddes: nods at the footage. "That."

Lewis: frowns at her in 'confusion'. "That's me. That's just harmless little me." Grins.

"You're joking," Will mocked. "He is small for a sixteen-year-old. Smaller than me and Nate for sure," Zane mentioned. "I'm not small, I'm just …" Lewis tried looking for the right word when Rikki cut in. "He's pretty average for a nerd," she grinned. "A scientist. I'm a scientist," Lewis rolled his eyes. "Don't listen to them, Lewis. I like you just the way you are," Cleo gave him a hug. "Sadly, that doesn't make me feel any better," Lewis scowled at the others.

"He is harmless. Couldn't hurt a fly," Charlotte remarked. "We can tell. We saw him attempt karate," Kim said. "That was an attempt?" Ash asked.

Mrs. Geddes: waves the remote around at the monitor. "You were talking to someone." Laurie paces around slowly in the back of the room.

"Does she think another person was involved?" Bella asked. "As crazy as she is, I wouldn't be surprised," Rikki blankly said. "How though?" Bev asked. "I believe the viewing showed us how," Neil turned to his daughter and friend.

Lewis: "To Ronnie. I'm an animal lover from way back. I treat them just like they're people." Lowers his hands. Laurie pinches the bridge of his nose, getting frustrated. "Especially dolphins. I love dolphins."

"Did she not hear that the first time?" Annette frowned. "It's not that. She just doesn't believe me," Lewis sighed. "Then she needs to hear it again," Cleo crossed her arms with a scowl.

Him too? Charlotte thought. Does everyone in this room love dolphins but me? … actually, that's a probability.

"It's true. He was gentle with helping me get the pelican downstairs," Cleo thought aloud. "I forgot that happened," Don tilted his head. "Wished you weren't reminded," Kim mumbled.

Laurie: "This is a serious matter, Lewis."

"He is being serious, and honest," Cleo argued. "He's just worried about Ronnie dear," Bev assured. "So am I, but I'm also worried about Lewis," Cleo pouted. "I can handle it. We all know we've been through far worse together," Lewis chuckled as Emma gave him a warning with her finger to zip it. "It doesn't mean he has to take his frustrations out on you," Cleo told him. "And you weren't earlier?" Will mumbled. "Only because I'm the only suspect. Hopefully it'll stay that way until Ronnie returns," Lewis said, concerned still for his friends.

Lewis: turns to him. "I appreciate that." Let's out a silent laugh.

Mrs. Geddes: "What were you doing with the controls?"

"Keeping my balance," Lewis said in a duh tone. "Making yourself look guilty," Zane said in the same tone. "I didn't know I was being recorded," Lewis bickered. "Laurie was annoyed with the cameras earlier. He must be happy about them now," Sam commented.

Lewis: shakes his head. "I didn't touch the controls." Looks at the footage and sees where he was and gestures to it. "Not on purpose. I – I was just trying not to fall in."

"Unfortunately, that's not what they see, and it's not what the cameras show either," Mrs. Chatham sighed. "You just had to touch them," Rikki shook her head. "You just had to show up," Lewis shot back.

Mrs. Geddes: narrows eyes. "A likely story."

"It's the truth!" Elliot yelled. "She's never gonna believe him," Kim frowned. She might not like Lewis, but she would never want him to get in this much trouble. It's her sister's dorky boyfriend. He would never do anything like what they're accusing him of!

Mrs. Geddes: moves closer to him, waves the remote at him threateningly. "Look, I'm gonna ask you one more time, Lewis. Did you let Ronnie out through the underwater gate?"

Lewis: serious now, shakes his head. "No. I didn't. I swear." Laurie lowers his head.

"He would never do such a thing," Cleo said. "Neither would we. Not on purpose," Emma told her. "And it better not ever happen," Lisa warned.

Mrs. Geddes: points the remote at the monitor again. "I have combed every piece of footage from that moment on, and there's no further appearance from Ronnie."

"He just had to leave after us," Emma winced. "You just had to go there and mess with Lewis," Cleo snapped. "We were just standing up for you," Rikki said. "I can stand up for myself. Let me fight my own battles," Cleo huffed. "We're sorry," Emma said. "I just want Ronnie to be okay and for none of this to happen," Cleo said sadly. "He will be. It won't," Rikki said determinedly.

"He could just be hiding underwater," Charlotte said. "No, he would have to come up for air eventually. The cameras would get him then," Denman shook her head.

Lewis: glances at the monitor then her. "That's terrible, really it is, but frankly I don't see what it's got to do with me."

"Because you're the only one they can find that has anything to do with it. Even if you didn't," Terry sighed. "They gotta put the blame on someone," Zane mumbled, glancing down. "They have all the evidence they need. False evidence, but to do them it's not," Max said.

Mrs. Geddes: "You're responsible for Ronnie's disappearance. Admit it."

"How can I admit to a crime I didn't do?" Lewis asked. "Bribery, threats, blackmail," Ash listed off with his fingers. "Besides that," Lewis said a bit louder, annoyed.

Lewis: shakes his head. "No, I'm not. And I'd be lying if I said I was."

"Good. Stick to the truth, stick with your gut," Sam said. "It's not gonna get me anywhere. Whether I tell the truth or lie, they're gonna punish me still," Lewis shrugged. "Still, it's not right," Bella shook her head. "It doesn't matter if it's right to us. It matters what's right to them," Annette sighed, nodding her head at the screen.

Mrs. Geddes: sighs. "Fine. You leave me with no choice." Shakes her head, grabs the phone from her desk. Dials a number and holds it up to her ear as Lewis stares at the footage. To the phone. "Uh, get me the police, please." Lewis looks at her in surprise then closes his mouth and looks at the monitor again.

"The police?!" the audience yelled. "Isn't that a bit extreme?" Kim asked, eyes wide. "Not when there's a missing dolphin involved," Harrison winced. "And it'll be the same results as it was for them," Ash sighed. "He's in trouble for something he didn't do," Elliot said. "Just like with the girls too," Don said. "I never win, do I?" Lewis asked. "No one wins in life," Max scoffed. "This week just keeps getting better and better," Lewis sarcastically said.

"Good job guys. You wanted to get Lewis fired, and now you got the police involved," Cleo gestured to the screen angrily. "I don't think we meant for things to go that far," Rikki felt a bit guilty. "We would never cause this much trouble for Lewis," Emma said. "Yeah, it never usually goes past a bit of teasing," Rikki continued. "A bit?" Lewis raised a brow. "Some," Rikki reasoned. "Better," he nods. "Well, now you know why you shouldn't. This ought to be a good lesson for you when we return," Lisa scolded. "I think it's a lesson for all of us," Mrs. Chatham informed.

[At the café, Cleo meets up with the other girls at a table when Cleo gets a phone call. After a moment, Cleo hangs it up and looks stunned.]

Cleo: to the girls. "You'll never believe it. Ronnie's gone missing."

"Wow, word spreads fast," Annette said, a bit surprised. "If they want Ronnie back safe, they'll get it out to as many people as they can. I'm guessing they informed you since you were close to him and did work there," Denman theorized. "Used to," Cleo corrected.

"I wonder if it was Lewis that called? Shouldn't he call his parents?" Lisa asked. "I doubt it. If they're getting the police involved, they have most likely confiscated his phone as evidence," Neil explained. "It was probably Mitch or Laurie, they knew how much Ronnie meant to me, unlike someone," Cleo thought of her former boss. "Guess the news finally gets broken to me," Cleo sighed sadly. "Don't worry, we'll find him," Emma said.

Emma: frowns in concern. "Cleo, that's terrible."

Cleo: "They think he got out through an underwater gate." Emma and Rikki glance at one another, their concern worsening.

"Well now that you two know, you can finally do something about it," Terry mentioned. "Realizing your mistakes now, huh?" Zane asked. "But how are we going to find a dolphin in an entire ocean?" Rikki asked, ignoring her boyfriend. "We can think of something. And with Cleo as his best friend, I'm sure she knows of a way to find him," Emma replied. "I do know of a way to get his attention," Cleo hummed in thought, trying to think of an idea.

"That sound familiar to you?" Charlotte raised an eyebrow. "Finding out from your best friend who you were trying to help. That must be a real kicker," Will mused. "It does kind of suck," Rikki admitted.

Cleo: sighs. "And it gets worse." They look at Cleo. "They think Lewis is responsible."

Rikki: in surprise. "What? Why would they think that?"

"Oh, that's a shock to you, isn't it? Didn't you want me to get in trouble?" Lewis faked surprise. "Not like that," Rikki sighed in frustration.

"Because who else was there to blame?" Max asked. "Us," Emma answered. "Let's rephrase that. Who else is to blame that won't be put in an exhibit?" Bella held a finger up, leaning forward in her seat. "You could consider a jail cell as one," Lewis remarked.

Cleo: "I don't know. It just doesn't make any sense. Lewis wouldn't do that." Glances at the table then at them, worried. "I've got to get down there." Jumps up from her seat at the table and rushes out the door.

"Honey, are you sure you can handle going back there? That place holds a bad memory for you that was … pretty recent," Bev said in a gentle tone. "But it also holds a lot of good memories as well. Besides, Lewis and Ronnie are in trouble, I need to help in any way I can," Cleo responds.

"At least someone knows the real me," Lewis gave her a small smile. "We know the real you too. The them onscreen just can't see that," Emma said. "Not yet," Rikki added with a hopeful smile.

Rikki: to Emma now that Cleo was gone. "It must have been us. We must have let him out."

"Oh, so now you figure it out," Lewis said. "Remembering the gate now, aye?" Ash grinned. "Well, I can't say it in front of Cleo," Rikki rolled her eyes. "You could. Just go, 'oh, by the way. We messed with Lewis at the Marine Park and accidentally let your favorite dolphin loose. But don't worry, we'll make things right,'" Lewis said in a girly voice. "We don't sound like that," Rikki scowled. "And his name is Ronnie," Cleo gave him a look. "I know. But he's still your favorite dolphin, just like I'm your favorite boyfriend," Lewis wrapped an arm around her. "You're my only boyfriend," Cleo rolled her eyes but smiled, nonetheless. "Ahem," Don coughed, causing Lewis to remove his arm.

Emma: "We've got to tell her."

Rikki: furrows her brows. "Are you nuts? We can't tell her."

"Why not?" Cleo frowned. "Honesty is the best policy," Mrs. Chatham piped in. "Because you'll get mad," Rikki said. "I'll get mad either way if you do or don't tell me. I'll find out. And I already know!" Cleo gestured to herself. "That one doesn't," Rikki pointed to the screen. "If she's your friend, you should tell her. She'll come to understand eventually. You had the right reasons, just bad intentions," Sam told them.

Emma: "Cleo loves that dolphin, and it's our fault he's gone."

"It's like we're going through the five stages of grief: denial, anger, now acceptance," Zane counted. "Yeah, we just missed a few steps," Ash said in a sarcastic tone. "Seems more like a summary," Bella said. "Moving on," Rikki said in annoyance.

Rikki: sighs and thinks it over. "We've got to get Ronnie back." The two stand up and head for the door.

"Finally, someone's taking action," Cleo huffed, slumping in her seat. "Just be careful girls. Who knows how many rescue divers are out there," Lisa said in concern. "If there is any, their focus will be more on dolphins than us," Rikki reasoned. "Unless a giant orange sparkly tail gets their attention," Lewis reminded. "We're trying," Emma sighed. "Please do," Elliot begged. "Ronnie's one of the best things about the park. They've got to get him back," Kim told him.

[Minutes later, the two mermaids are swimming through the ocean in search of their friend's friend, looking through every reef, every crowded area of fish, or popular spot they knew of in the waters of the Gold Coast. Rikki stops and looks around, finding schools of fish and a shark swimming about. Emma looks around. Rikki moves on, swimming forward with Emma.]

"Are you searching near Mako?" Denman asked. "Looks like it. Those reefs are not far from there," Emma said. "Ronnie could be closer to home," Annette suggested. "He could be anywhere. Ronnie had all night and day to wander around. He could be anywhere by now," Cleo said, still worried. "We'll find him," Rikki said determined. "One thing we learned is, they'll do anything for their friends. They'll search the whole ocean for you," Lewis said. And I will too.

[After a while, the two surface in the moonpool with no luck.]

Rikki: rests on the ledge. Emma swims up behind her. "This is ridiculous. We're never going to find him."

"It might be a big ocean, but we can't stop. It's our screwup so we have to fix it, for Cleo," Emma said. "And Lewis," said boy coughed. Emma rolled her eyes but gave in. "And Lewis. We owe it to him for putting him in this mess." "Thank you," Lewis smiled smugly. "Keep it up and Ronnie won't be the only one missing," Rikki narrowed her eyes. "Rikki!" Terry scolded. "Kidding," Rikki put on a false smile. "I hope," Lewis gulped.

Emma: rests next to her. "A little positive thinking wouldn't kill you, Rikki."

"I dunno. It might. Never tried," Rikki shrugged. "You should try it sometimes. It might get rid of that nasty attitude," Emma teased. "And you should try realistic thinking. It might get you out of that bubble of yours," Rikki circled a finger around her with a smug grin. "There's a difference between optimism and reality. Not everything's positive, but everything's as real as it gets," Zane stated. "As real as mermaids," Will mumbled. "Will you stop bringing that up?" Zane turned to him with a glare. "Nope," he grinned.

Rikki: "Reality check. We're searching for one dolphin in an ocean full of them."

"The ocean is a lot bigger than it seems from the surface," Don said. "It's a whole different world down there," Bella agreed. "There's a whole ocean out there. How can we even tell the difference between him and the other ones?" Rikki asked. "I can," Cleo raised her hand. "Only because of your 'special bond'," Charlotte said. Although from what they've witnessed, the girls do have a closer connection to all marine life, meaning a closer connection to dolphins such as Ronnie. And if Cleo has befriended one, she ought to be able to tell which one is him.

Emma: "Then we're gonna have to try harder."

"If you want to keep Cleo happy, then yeah, you will," Lewis nodded. "Don't scold us. You take her job," Rikki accused. "And you lose Ronnie," Lewis countered. "And you're both getting on my nerves. We've been over this. It's neither of your faults, considering none of this has happened," Cleo hollered over their bickering. "That's right, since we're going to prevent it," Emma reminded.

Rikki: irritated. "The only way we're gonna locate Ronnie is if he swims up and bites us on the tail."

"Do dolphins really do that?" Charlotte asked, eyes wide in alert. Annette gently grabs her arm to calm her down. "No, they don't. They prey on other fish, not each other. And I doubt mermaids are on their food chain," Max shook his head. "Ronnie will play with you, not bite you," Cleo said.

"Cleo will have our tails if we don't keep looking," Emma mentioned. "And that's the only threat we need to worry about," Rikki and Emma shiver.

Emma: "And if we don't find him, Cleo's gonna do worse than that to your tail." Rikki sighs.

"At least my future self knows that," Emma joked lightly. "Your future self might feel that if you don't find him," Ash winced.

"Cleo wouldn't normally fight, but an angry Cleo I don't want to mess with. It would be much worse than a waterjet," Kim said. "Or a waterspout," Lewis rubbed his arms, reminded of the time he was held over the pool for the whole two hours, and not once did she get tired. Cleo was a fighter when she wants to be, she just chose not to.

"It's not just the friends you need to worry about, it's the parents as well," Neil reminded.

Emma: "I really wish I didn't let you talk me into going after Lewis in the first place."

"Should've thought about that before," Lisa crossed her arms. "You're usually the smart one," Zane snorted. "You would've gone through with it too," Rikki scoffed. "I'd do anything for you. Why do you think I was keeping our relationship a secret? For you, duh," Zane retorted.

"Kind of like how you listened to the whole dinner date crash idea?" Neil gave her a stern look. "My future isn't very bright, is it?" Emma said sheepishly. "Business date," Don corrected. "Now you know how I feel about the whole marriage ordeal," Cleo mumbled.

Rikki: frowns. "Me?" Emma turns to her and gives her a look. "Alright, maybe we're equally to blame, but we meant well, didn't we?" Gestures around.

"Hey, she admits it," Ash smiled. "Somewhat," Max chuckled. Their little Julia.

"You did, but your idea on the other hand …" Annette shook her head. "For Cleo, yeah. But what about Lewis?" Bev asked. "I'm lucky if I get a compliment out of her, I don't need any more 'meant well's from her," Lewis denied. "Consider it done," Rikki narrowed her eyes.

Emma: "I'll let you explain that to Lewis." Grins.

Rikki: groans. "Ugh, can you imagine it? I'm never gonna hear the end of this." Shakes her head.

"No, no you're not," Lewis laughed. "Not a word, Lewis. Not a word," Rikki threatened. "I'm not the one you gotta worry about," Lewis pointed to her dad and boyfriend who were smiling and waving at her innocently. "I can already hear the 'I was right, and you were wrong' song," Ash grinned.

"Trust me, I know the feeling," Cleo complained. "Me too," Zane agreed with a huff. "You laugh about it more than me," Harrison mentioned. "But it's more embarrassing for me," Zane remarked. "You deserve it," Terry chuckled at Rikki.

Emma: sighs. "We better go call Cleo and come clean."

"Don't give up. Keep looking!" Cleo urged. "Actually, it'd be better if they did tell you. That way you can start helping too," Sam insisted. "Yeah, they can't do it alone. That way you can cover more ground – er, water," Don said. "Oh, I'm sure I will after I finish interrogating Lewis. I know I didn't get all the info from Laurie. The correct info that is," Cleo gave him a teasing grin and nudged him gently.

Rikki: frowns. "No! No way." Shakes her head.

"Sounds like you're scared," Kim smirked. "As if," Rikki scoffed. "Couldn't blame her. Sometimes they can be pretty scary," Lewis joked, earning a slap from all three girls. "See what I mean?" "She just hates owning up to the truth. It's not very Rikki," Zane teased. "Neither is boyfriends. Do I need to fix myself?" Rikki raised an eyebrow. "No," Zane shut his mouth.

Emma: "Well there's still plenty of places we haven't checked yet. Come on." Dives back under, swims for the underwater entrance. Rikki does the same.

"Might wanna recheck the other spots as well. Dolphins can move around, remember?" Denman giggled to herself. "I'm sure we thought of that," Emma scoffed with a nervous laugh. Though her future self hasn't been using her brain as of lately.

"Anywhere with food or schools of fish hanging around, he ought to be," Don suggested. "But Ronnie's been fed this whole time at the Marine Park. He doesn't know how to catch his own food in the wild. He'll starve," Cleo worried. "We'll find him before then," Emma said. "Mrs. Geddes might wanna rethink his diet when he returns," Ash scratched his head. They tend to do that sometimes with the horses whenever they have their training. "I say let Laurie be in charge. He cares about them more, he knows what they need. They're basically his dolphins," Will said.

[Meanwhile, at the Marine Park, Lewis is sitting outside the office with his arms crossed waiting for the police as his fellow coworkers walk by when Cleo runs up beside him from the main entrance.]

"You got there quick," Ash asked, impressed. "When my friend is in trouble, I'll do anything for him," Cleo declared. "We know about Ronnie, but what about me?" Lewis asked in offense. "You're my friend too," Cleo rolled her eyes playfully. "Boyfriend," Lewis corrected with a scoff. "And a pain in the butt but I'm not finding a difference," Rikki said as she glanced at her own boyfriend. "You know you love me," Zane smiled smugly.

Cleo: "Lewis." Lewis turns to find her there, but looks straight, still moping. "I just wanna know one thing. Did you do it?"

"Are you really asking that question?" Lewis asked in disbelief. "Although it's a stupid and very obvious question, I guess I want to make sure," Cleo shook her head.

"There's a mini-Geddes in the making," Kim teased. "That is the most awful thing you have ever said! Don't ever say that again!" Cleo hollered.

"You should know the answer, Cleo. He would never do it," Emma said. "Well, you never know. I thought my best friends wouldn't risk my other friends' safety, but I was wrong," Cleo shot back.

"That's the only thing you wanna know? No, where's Ronnie? Or who the real culprit is?" Bella asked. "Well, it would be difficult to blame it on mermaids since everyone knows it's a bad idea for real mermaids to go to a Marine Park," Will sarcastically said. "Or at least they should," Lisa tilted her head at her daughter. "Guess we're going to be the ones getting the blame game now," Rikki sighed. "Yup," Emma popped as she slouched in her seat like Rikki.

Lewis: "No."

Cleo: gestures to the office and crosses her arms. "Then why do they think you did it?"

"Because your two idiot friends didn't get caught," Lewis remarked. "We're not idiots," Rikki defended. "You two swim into the Marine Park as mermaids where anyone could have seen you with cameras around and use your powers publicly. Tell me, what part of that plan was not idiotic?" Lewis explained with a raised brow, as did the parents. "All of it," Emma said quietly. "I thought so," Lewis huffed.

Lewis: "They've got security footage of me crouching at the controls to the underwater gate at the exact moment Ronnie went missing."

Cleo: shakes her head, eyes widening. "How can you be sure you didn't do it?" Lewis bites back a laugh. "I mean, maybe you accidentally opened the gate?"

"You don't believe him?" Elliot asked. "I'm sure I do in some way. I'm just trying to figure out how in the world it happened," Cleo excused. "I'm sure you'll find out in a moment," Lewis chuckled.

"This must be very comedic for you, seeing your best friend believe you've done it as well," Denman wondered, noticing the grin. "Looks like I figured out that they didn't tell her what happened," Lewis looks at Rikki and Emma. "It was a surprise?" Rikki shrugged. "Or did you feel regret over doing it and felt sorry for him?" Charlotte asked. "Nah, doubt it," Lewis scoffed. "She might've gotten another Emma scolding as soon as they left," Terry said. "… probably the latter," Rikki grimaced.

"I'm sure I would notice an underwater gate accidentally being opened. Just like I noticed two mermaids in a Marine Park where they shouldn't be," Lewis lamented. "Observant when others aren't," Max joked.

Lewis: shakes his head. "Trust me. I didn't do it. I know who's responsible."

Cleo: tilts her head. "Then say something!"

"That's a problem. Because you don't believe me," Lewis sighed. "I believe you, I must think you're crazy since you haven't said anything," Cleo said. "Kinda funny. Usually, it's Lewis who doesn't have all the information. Must be ironic to be on the receiving end for once," Zane humored. "Very," Lewis sarcastically said.

"That's also a problem because he can't," Harrison said. "If he did, the whole secret would go down the drain," Neil agreed. "Didn't it already?" Rikki gestured around the room. "He meant with the whole world. Or with the Marine Park at least," Lisa corrected.

"He's gotta protect his friends somehow. And until Ronnie returns, unfortunately, this is the only way," Mrs. Chatham said sadly.

Lewis: hesitates. "I can't."

Cleo: "Yes, you can."

Lewis: speaks louder, getting angry. "No, really, I can't."

"He's right, he can't," Kim said. "It would ruin everything," Bev worried for both him and Cleo.

Cleo: "Why?"
Lewis: "Because … I can hardly tell them that a couple of your soul-sister mermaids popped in and accidentally left the gate open, can I?" Cleo tenses up, anger washing over her, and storms out of the Marine Park, leaving Lewis where he is.

"He didn't have to say it that way, but he's right," Sam shrugged. "I know he is, but I'm not angry at him. It's directed toward others," Cleo snuck a threatening glare at her friends. "We're in deep trouble, aren't we?" Rikki winced. "Yes. Yes, we are," Emma nodded in slight fear of her friend's wrath. One thing she learned for as long as she's known Cleo, it was rare, but when she got angry … she got angry. "Trouble that is well-deserved," Terry remarked.

"And the truth comes out," Annette sighed. "It needed to be said since someone wouldn't," Lewis gave them a pointed look. "Sucks being on the short end of the stick, doesn't it?" Kim teased. "Oh, shut it. You've had your turn before," Rikki snapped at her.

"He can't," Kim repeated. "You already said that," Elliot pointed out. "And I'll say it again," Kim said.

[Minutes later, Cleo was marching past the Juicenet Café, where her friends happen to be standing by a tree near the marina. Cleo stops in front of them with her arms crossed and a terrifying smile, clearly furious. Emma gives her a small smile as Rikki turns to the former with her arms crossed too.]

Rikki: uncrosses her arms with a nervous smile. "We got your message."

"So, it wasn't a random meetup," Sam commented. "No, but I am curious as to what the message said for them to get there so quickly. They're terrified," Kim said a bit ecstatic to finally see someone else on the other end of Cleo's anger. "When it happens, you'll probably snoop through my phone," Cleo said. "Thanks for the idea," Kim smiled.

"Be prepared. This is gonna get ugly," Rikki shielded herself.

Cleo: big false smile. "Is there anything you guys want to tell me?"

"Better tell her. She's not kidding around," Lewis grinned. "You're enjoying this," Rikki scowled. "Am I enjoying seeing you two squirm out of fear for what you did to Cleo and me while I take the blame? Yep," Lewis pointed to himself.

Rikki: opens her mouth, hesitant to answer. "That top brings out the color in your eyes." They give her a smile.

"Is it red? Because I'm sure that's all she's seeing," Bella said. "And feeling," Will agreed. "Oh, you're in for it now," Kim snickered.

"Should've stuck with honesty," Annette sighed. "It's the best policy," Mrs. Chatham added. "You've never been afraid before to tell someone the truth. Why now? Because you know you're in the wrong," Terry shook his head. "She wants the truth and nothing but the truth. Quit dodging around it and admit it," Don said. "She already knows, and you can tell by the look on her face," Ash mentioned.

Cleo: gestures to them, yelling. "You let Ronnie out!" Their smiles drop.

Emma: "We're sorry, Cleo. It was an accident, I promise."

Rikki: shakes her head. "We didn't even know he followed us out."

"There it is," Don sighed in relief. "That's the truth. Let it all out," Neil crossed his arms.

"And you let Lewis take the blame for it. Don't forget that part," Charlotte reminded. "She already knows," Annette mentioned.

"And they say I have anger issues," Kim giggled, enjoying the show.

Cleo: "What were you doing there in the first place? Anybody could have seen you!"

"Finally, a mermaid with common sense," Terry exclaimed. Excuse me? Bella wanted to say but kept her mouth shut. "I have common sense!" Rikki argued. "Not much of it," Zane snorted. He went to shield his head but stopped when Terry hollered. "Don't hit that boy! He's right." Rikki crossed her arms and grumbled under her breath.

"Oh, just you know, messing everything up like they always do," Lewis huffed in irritation. "Not everything is our fault. And even so, we always fix it," Rikki said.

"You're just lucky the cameras didn't," Harrison said. "It's not worth the risk. Not again," Bev worried.

Rikki: "We just … we couldn't let Lewis get away with taking your job."

"For the last time, he didn't take my job. It's not his fault I got fired. The only thing he took was the job position which was open," Cleo clarified for what felt like the hundredth time. "Even if things were the way you claim, it's not your responsibility to 'get even.' If Cleo wants something done about it, she should do it herself," Neil remarked. "Which she will not do. Do you understand?" Don added, giving Cleo a warning look. "Understood. But I won't be doing anything anyways, because I know the truth," Cleo smiled at Lewis. "And the future," Ash coughed.

Emma: "So we went there to complicate things."

"And you did a very good job at it," Lewis gives them a thumbs up. "It went from complicated to illegal really quick," Will commented. "It was a little more than complicated, Em," Lisa said.

"First you were with me, then you were against me, now you're on my side again. Make your mind up," Rikki turned to the other blonde.

Cleo: bit her lip and nods. "Well, let's see." Steps closer to them. "Ronnie's gone and Lewis is in serious trouble." Looks between them with a raised brow. "Is that complicated enough for you?" Emma and Rikki stay silent, feeling guilty as the latter looks down.

"Yes," Emma said at the same time as Rikki said, "No." Emma elbows Rikki in the ribs and she quickly changes her answer. "Yes, with an ow!"

"That sums it up," Kim humored. "Now that everything's out in the open, the next step is to find Ronnie," Sam remarked. "Which shouldn't you be doing by now?" Bella asked. "I better be," Cleo said. "We better be," Emma said, glancing at her and then at Rikki. "We're in this together."

[While Cleo scolds her friends, Lewis is back in the office with his boss and Laurie, now with two police officers there replaying the footage and taking notes. Lewis sat in a chair watching it, and as the policeman stops, he looks at Lewis with furrowed brows.]

"Guess he doesn't believe I'm innocent either," Lewis sighed. "But you are. It's just terrible security footage," Charlotte said. "We're lucky it doesn't capture us. Otherwise, there'd be more police involved," Emma stated. "And public and cameras," Mrs. Chatham added. And more marine biologists, Denman thought to herself.

"She might as well put that footage on tape as many times as she's recorded it," Ash said, getting tired of rewatching the same thing over and over again. "She probably does knowing her," Kim shook her head.

"I really hope we can find Ronnie in time," Cleo worried. "We will, I'm sure," Emma said determined. "As sure of you were about complicating things for Lewis?" Lisa asked. "Much surer than that," she said. I hope.

"A teenager having to deal with crime at this age," Max shook his head.

[Lewis glances at the officer and then back at the monitor. The policeman resumes his notetaking. He finishes his notes and closes the small book as Mrs. Geddes stops the footage with the remote.]

Policeman: gestures to the monitor with his pen. "So that's the last time the dolphin was seen?"

Mrs. Geddes: nods. "That's right." They all turn to Lewis.

"They're going by the wrong perspective. They should be listening to him, not them!" Kim exclaimed. "The police will listen to both sides. Whichever adds up the most and has the evidence is what they need," Neil explained. "And unfortunately, Lewis is the one with absolutely no evidence, is telling the truth, and can't prove it," Terry sighed.

"Ronnie. That's his name, learn it," Cleo said through gritted teeth. "Chill," Rikki said. "I won't chill. How would you feel if people only called you 'the mermaid'," Cleo shot back. "I'd rather them call me that than by my actual name if they knew I was a mermaid. And it's happened before," Rikki snuck a glance at Zane. "You weren't my mermaid though," Zane frowned. "I was one of them," Rikki grinned.

Lewis: looks at them. "I know how it looks, but I didn't do it."

"It does look bad," Ash grimaced. "You have got to believe him," Cleo begged. "Unfortunately, they have all the evidence they need to prove otherwise," Denman sighed. "And we have all the evidence we need to prove his innocence," Rikki argued. "Evidence we can't use," Emma sighed.

Policeman: moves closer to him. "All you have to do is explain to me what you were doing by the gate controls." Lewis gets nervous and rolls his chair back. The man leans against the desk. "Just tell me the truth and you're free to go." Lewis looks at the others, everyone stares him down.

"I already have. Several times," Lewis exclaimed. "Tell him you didn't do it. That's the truth," Bella encouraged. "A truth they won't believe," Lewis sighed in defeat. "The truth is the one thing he can't say," Charlotte said concerned. "What if the truth was he did do it and told him that truth? Would they still let him go?" Elliot asked. "No dear, it's just a trick to get him to confess," Lisa said sadly.

"A free trip to a jail cell that is," Zane finished with a shake of his head.

[The three girls walk down the street by the marina discussing a plan.]

Rikki: "We've already searched the reef."

Cleo: frustrated. "Then we'll search again."

"You never know. He could've gone there after you left. It's a whole ocean for him to swim around in. He could go anywhere he wants," Sam reasoned. "Unlike the marine ponds," Bella muttered. She didn't particularly agree with those sea creatures being locked up, it was like one of her own inside. But Cleo did have a point: it kept the ones raised in captivity safe, fed, and happy to have others around just like them. It was their home.

"Is the reef a popular area for dolphins?" Charlotte asked curiously, totally not to make sure to avoid that area or not. "On some occasions. They swim everywhere they can like us. But it is a good feeding spot for the wild ones there since that's where most of the schools of fish hang around," Cleo answered.

"Check again. He might be there," Kim said. "I don't know. Ronnie's smart, but he's not survival smart. He was rescued as a baby. He doesn't know how to survive on his own," Cleo pouted. "At least you're coming up with a plan now," Lisa breathed in relief. "If you could even call it that," Harrison mumbled.

Emma: "Think about it, Cleo. We can't cover the entire ocean."

"We can if we try. We have superspeed," Cleo crossed her arms. "And super exhaustion once you're done. You'll kill over from the lack of sleep, your body wouldn't be able to handle it, even with enhanced abilities," Lewis shook his head. "It'll be worth it for Ronnie," Cleo frowned. "For Ronnie?" Lewis raised a brow. "And for you too I guess," she joked.

"No, but you could cover the spots you know where most dolphins go," Denman suggested. "But Ronnie's not most dolphins. He's a rescue, he doesn't know what it's like being out there," Cleo replied.

Cleo: frowns in worry. "He must be starving by now."

Rikki: waves around. "He'll be fine. He's swimming in an ocean full of fish."

"No he won't," Cleo glanced down. "Why not?" Elliot asked in worry. "Because since he was raised by us, he was fed by hand at certain times of the day. He was never taught how to hunt his own food. He would probably be expecting somebody to give it to him by now. The wild dolphins would be laughing at him," Cleo felt bad for him. "Can they do that?" Kim asked. "Have you heard their cackles? Of course they can," Charlotte shuttered. "Their cackles aren't evil, they're really nice. Sometimes they're talking to you, or smiling, or laughing. They are really friendly mammals," Cleo smiled thinking of them.

"At least you can see that," Annette said wistfully as she looked at her daughter. How she wished she could get over her fear. She believed she could one day. If Cleo could get over her fear of water, anybody could.

"Meaning he'll starve to death if he's not found soon," Sam frowned in worry. "They need to put a search warrant out for him," Don said frustrated. "Can they do that, for a dolphin – er, Ronnie?" Terry corrected himself when he saw the brunette shoot him a glare. "If he's missing and the police are already involved, they can," Don answered.

Cleo: "He's been raised in captivity. He doesn't know how to hunt for live feed."

"Which means we need to find him faster. Quit talking and hurry up. I should be jumping in the water by now," Cleo said, aggravated with her screen self. "We will. But we need to think this through first. We need to come up with a proper plan," Emma informed. "For once," Lewis muttered. "We're trying to help here," Rikki reminded, having heard the comment. "And I'm putting my input here," he grinned.

Emma: "Then what does he eat?"

"Oh, coming up with a new idea?" Charlotte asked. "Let's hope this one is more thorough," Neil grumbled. "Are you thinking about luring him in with bait?" Max asked. "I hope that's what I'm thinking. It's not a bad idea, and also the only one we got," Emma shrugged. "Fishing for a dolphin. Huh, that's a new one," Don thought. "At least it's not turtles," Kim mumbled. "We won't fish for him, we'll just try to lure him home. Find him, gain his trust, and bring him home," Cleo explained. She thought it was a good idea, and she really hoped it'll work.

Cleo: "Oh, squid. He loves squid. He'll do anything for it." Cleo pauses in her walk, gets an idea. "Wait!" They stop and turn to her. "I've got an idea."

"Now I'm catching on," Cleo grinned. "But I thought it was your idea," Elliot frowned. "Guess I was only curious as to what he eats. My brain still isn't working in the future," Emma groaned in complaint. "Is it one that will work?" Will asked. "We don't even know what it is yet," Ash replied.

"Ugh. I will never understand," Charlotte gagged. "You would if you were a dolphin," Annette chuckled. "Ew. No."

[Seconds later, the girls were at the docks by Don's fishing boat, strapped down in gloves. Her and Emma were holding a fishing net together while Don pours a bucket of squid into the net. Rikki stood behind them.]

"Ew," a few gagged, except for Cleo. "How are you fine?" Rikki asked. "I'm used to it," Cleo shrugged. "I've seen this stuff my whole life and it still grosses me out," Kim said in disgust. "What? They're fresh, they're clean and easily cookable. There's nothing wrong with them," Don gestured to the screen. "He's right. That's the beauty of the ocean right there," Max smiled. "Needs some makeup then," Kim shivered. "You should try cooking it. That's the real challenge," Charlotte complained. "After a few tries you eventually get it down to pat. It's the eating part," Annette waved it off.

Don: "I came across a whole school of them this morning." Lowers the bucket.

Cleo: perks up and closes the net. "Really? Where?"

Don: "East side of Mako."

"Do you think that might be where Ronnie is?" Emma perks up. "If he sees squid, he'll swim toward them but won't be able to catch them himself. But he'll stick around long enough to try," Cleo figured. "Maybe he's still there," Bella said hopeful. "Only one way to find out," Cleo held on to that hope.

"What were you doing out there?" Bev asked. "That's one of my usual fishing spots. Guess I needed some squid," Don shrugged. "I might have put in an order for it," Annette thought. "As long as you're cooking it. I'm out on that round," Charlotte held her hands up. "Who would've thought the whole time working with your mom that squid would be your toughest one yet?" Lewis chuckled. "Wanna give it a try?" Charlotte challenged with a tilt of her head. "No, no. No cooking in my kitchen. At least, not when it's open," Annette stopped them.

[Emma and Rikki look to Cleo who nods her head. They run off back up the dock.]

Don: watches them go, confused, and hollers. "What do you want squid for anyway?"

"You didn't tell him?" Lisa asked. "Guess not," Cleo said. "How could you tell him? Can't exactly explain how you're looking for a dolphin without the Marine Park knowing," Rikki stated. "No, but you can trust us to keep a secret for you. We're your family, we love and care for you," Terry said. "That's right. We wouldn't want any harm to come to you, so we would make sure that you girls are okay," Neil glanced at each one of them.

Cleo: yells back while running, ahead of the group. "Um, fishing. See you later. Thanks, dad!" Don waves, still confused.

"You didn't have to lie. You can trust me," Don said, sounding a bit hurt. "Well, there's a couple of reasons for that I believe. We were on a time limit, so it would've been a lot more to explain than a simple, 'we're looking for Ronnie, a missing dolphin'," Cleo explained. "And not to mention, she would have to also explain how Lewis was in trouble, how the dolphin escaped, and how we were the only ones that can find him in time," Rikki continued. "Which would take way too long and waste a lot of time we already don't have," Emma added. "You could've said, 'we'll explain later, dad'. I will accept that," Don chuckled with a shake of his head.

"You should know something's wrong already. Cleo rarely fishes. And when she does, it's not with squid," Bev laughed. "I think he's had enough teenage issues that week. Don't need to add more to it," Harrison chuckled along.

[The girls zoom through the water toward the east side of Mako like her dad said, with a squid in Cleo's hands. As they get there, the trio slows down, nearing the ocean floor in search of their friend. The three kept looking around in search of the missing dolphin.]

"Come on, Ronnie. Please be there," Cleo begged, many of them having their fingers crossed. "Please," Elliot worried. Charlotte furrowed her brows, still worried for the dolphin. She might be terrified, but she did care for the creature that was clearly so friendly to everyone he's met so far. Maybe … maybe when he's found, he might be friendly to me? she thought. "There's hardly anything there. The only thing in sight is them," Kim complained. "He's got to be there somewhere," Don stared intensely at the screen.

"Come on, buddy. It's not just for your sake either," Lewis pleaded, earning a slap to the arm from Cleo. "Ow! What? He's not the only one in trouble."

[Back at the Marine Park, Mrs. Geddes goes over everything with the police. Lewis still sat at the desk with his arms crossed looking worried.]

Mrs. Geddes: "So, what sort of charges are we looking at?"

"You're worried," Cleo was too. "Of course. I don't know if it's for myself, or you girls, or Ronnie; perhaps all three," Lewis held her hand.

"Were you even fired?" Zane asked curiously. "Most likely," Lewis said. "But you're still wearing the uniform," Ash frowned. "I doubt they'll let me go to the locker room to change. They're not letting me out of their sight," Lewis scoffed.

"He hasn't done anything!" Cleo said infuriated. "We have. It should be us in his position," Emma sighed, feeling guilty. "But it can't. Because if it were, instead of an office it would be an aquarium tank you were in," Lewis remarked. "Please, don't give us that vision ever again," Lisa shuttered, holding tight to her husband. She didn't ever want to see her daughter behind bars like that ever again.

Lewis: twists around in the chair. "Charges? I didn't do anything." Faces forward again with a shake of his head, looks down at his hands. Laurie clamps a hand down on the back of his chair and walks toward the others.

"After everything they saw, they likely won't believe it," Neil said in concern. "You're right. They won't be letting me go anytime soon," Lewis sighed. "Not if we can get there in time. We've got to hurry," Cleo leaned forward in her seat.

Policeman: holds a hand out for him to be silent then turns back to Mrs. Geddes. "Once we've done a full investigation, we'll get back to you." To Lewis. "For now, we need to get you down to the station to make a formal statement." Walks over to Lewis, the two officers look down at him.

"That wasn't a full investigation?" Kim asked with a raised brow. "Fortunately, no; but it is a long and dreadful waiting process. I swear it feels like a way to get culprits to confess," Terry complained. "Like they said, they still have to get a statement from him, report it, lots and lots of paperwork, put out a missing report for Ronnie, and if he's found, find any more evidence to either charge him with or find proof he didn't have anything to do with it," Harrison explained further. "But they already got a statement from him. He said he didn't do it," Charlotte frowned. "But they need more details, and so forth. Like Terry said, a long drawn-out process," Max felt bad for the kid.

"Well, at least I'll finally get to see the outside world. Though it might be my last time," Lewis sighed. "Oh, quit playing. You know we'll get you out of this," Rikki scoffed. "I know. But will that be before or after I'm put behind bars?" Lewis asked.

[Near Mako, Emma and Rikki swim side by side, looking in every direction to find the missing dolphin. Not far from them, Cleo does the same.]

"We're still looking?" Emma whined. "Come on, Ronnie. You've got to be around there somewhere," Cleo pleaded, her hands clasped together.

"How come Cleo's the only one holding a squid?" Will asked. "Gross!" Rikki said in disgust. "I'm not touching that," Emma shook her head. "Girls," Ash chuckled. "I thought you'd do anything for a friend," Kim grinned. "We have our limits," Rikki crossed her arms. "How is holding a squid past the limits of nearly getting one of your friends in jail?" Lewis asked. "Simple. One's grosser than the other," Rikki shrugged. "Take it as a compliment," Zane cut in before Lewis could get a word out. But if it were to happen in the future, we will," Emma huffed with an eye roll. "Bu –," Rikki tried to say, but Emma cut her off as well. "We brought it upon ourselves just for saying that," Emma muttered, Rikki scowled.

"What did you do with the rest of the squid?" Don asked. "I dunno. Either on the beach or Lewis' boat if we need more," Cleo shrugged. "You take Lewis' boat without permission?" Terry asked a bit surprised. "Every once in a while," Rikki admitted. Zane gives Lewis a strange look. "Anything for a friend," Lewis repeated.

[Behind her, squealing was heard, and Ronnie swims over in a rush. Cleo turns around with a smile to see her longtime friend safe and sound. Rikki and Emma stop their swimming to look over to see him also with a smile.]

"Ronnie!" the whole room squeals and shouts, just like the laughter and squealing coming from the dolphin himself. "He's okay!" Cleo breathed in relief, a giant smile on her face. "Thank goodness," Rikki too breathed in relief. If something would've happened to Ronnie, she and Emma would never stop blaming herself.

Charlotte, just like the rest of the room, clapped and cheered for the return of Ronnie. She was glad to know he was okay, glad to know that Lewis will now be fine, glad to know things might go back to normal now that they had found him; Lewis wouldn't go to jail, Cleo and the girls' friendship will be okay, Ronnie was safe. It was about as normal as it could get in the life of mermaids. She was happy, but she wasn't going to be hugging Ronnie anytime soon like she knew Cleo would.

"You found him!" Elliot said in excitement. "Told you we could count on our friendly neighborhood mermaids," Will chuckled. "I'm just glad he's alright," Emma put a hand to her chest. "We all are," Lisa nodded with a watery smile. "How dare he run away," Cleo felt tears in her eyes, the anger from Ronnie's disappearance coming forward once more from all the stress. "Curiosity got the best of him. But now he's with someone he knows," Lewis gave her a smile and patted her back. "Not a scratch on him," Bev said in amazement, seeing the bright smile on her daughter's face over her friend's return. She wasn't sure if it would come back or not with Ronnie gone. But with him now back, she was proven wrong, and she was okay with that.

[Ronnie swims around in a circle cackling before going up to Cleo. Cleo shakes the squid in her hand at him and he spins in circles, hungry and excited. Rikki and Emma smile at each other for their newfound friend. Cleo grins as she glances at the squid and Ronnie with an idea forming.]

"He's hungry," Annette noticed. "That's a good thing. Maybe it'll make it easier to lure him home," Don said. "At least he's not too weak to be swimming from hunger," Denman mentioned, looking hopeful.

"Now how are you going to get him home?" Will asked, oblivious. "I know of a way," Cleo grinned, seeing herself shake the squid.

"Who would've thought one little squid would get a reaction out of him like that?" Harrison chuckled. "I think it was more than just the squid. It's Cleo. Having a friend in an unknown place might make him feel better," Lewis explained. "That and food," Zane shrugged. "The mission's not over yet. We still got to get back to the Marine Park," Rikki grinned. "We've got to hurry before they take Lewis away," Emma added.

"That little troublemaker," Max laughed. "I don't think Cleo's going to be letting him out of her sight anytime soon," Mrs. Chatham laughed. "Your dang right I'm not," Cleo stared at the screen. I'm not losing him this time.

[The group walks out of the office and by the dolphin pools, Ronnie's pool to be exact, with Laurie taking the lead as he stares at the empty pool in worry. The policeman follows behind him with Lewis being escorted by Mrs. Geddes and the policewoman behind him.]

Mrs. Geddes: to the police officer. "His parents will meet you at the station." Smiles at the officer.

"Great, now my parents are involved," Lewis groaned in complaint. "It's about to go from a police investigation to a parental investigation. Those are much worse," Kim winced. "There's going to be hundreds of questions and tons of scolding from them. With the police involved, your mom isn't going to go easy on you," Charlotte worried.

"Hopefully not if I get proven innocent real soon," Lewis looked to his girlfriend and friends. "We're on our way. Luckily Ronnie should be able to match our speed," Cleo grinned. "Yeah, dolphins can swim as fast as us," Rikki beamed, something she remembered from their first days as mermaids. "If Ronnie will listen that is," Denman chuckled lightly. "If he's being bribed with a squid, he'll listen to anything. It's just like the dolphin shows at the park. They do what they're asked, and they get a treat," Cleo explained.

Lewis: "For the last time, I'm innocent."

Mrs. Geddes: narrows her eyes and walks next to him. "Spare me, Lewis."

"That's not gonna be the last time if you get transported to the police station," Zane commented. "Not if we can get there in time," Rikki replied.

"No, spare me. I'm the one that's gonna get a lecture from my dad," Lewis whined. "Sorry, Lewis. We can save you from an arrest, but we can't save you from your parents," Emma winced.

Mrs. Geddes: "The only thing that'll save you now is Ronnie himself." To the officer. "Thank you, officer."

"I believe those are the magic words," Max put a hand to his ear with a grin.

"Any moment now and that smug grin will be wiped off your face," Lewis smirked. "I can't wait for that to happen," Kim rubs her hands together. "It'll be nice," Cleo sighed with a smile.

[As soon as those words were said, Ronnie races through the underwater gate and into the pool. He swims toward the group and jumps into the air with a spin and cackle and splashes back down into the water. The group watches in amazement and shock.]

"Now that's what you call a performance!" Max pointed at the screen. "That's what I call perfect timing," Ash replied. "There it is," Lewis's grin grew bigger. "Karma," Bella sang. "Told you we'll come through," Rikki grinned. "He's back! Thank you, guys, so so much," Cleo hugs her friends for the return of her marine friend. "Woah, Cleo. We haven't even done this yet," Emma laughed but they accepted the hug no less. "Doesn't matter. It's the fact that you guys help bring him home that does," Cleo wiped her tears of joy away. "I'm proud of you girls. Fixing your mistakes and making things right," Neil looked at each one of them with a smile.

"If he's back, then where are the others?" Sam asked. "Hopefully nowhere near the underwater entrance of the Marine Park," Terry narrowed his eyes at his daughter. "Not with the police around, I won't," Rikki shook her head. "Oh, so you just do it when anyone else is around?" Terry retorted. "We're probably nearby. I must've gave Ronnie the squid before he went in, with him being so perky and doing a trick," Cleo added. "Atta girls," Don nodded.

"That means Lewis is free, right?" Charlotte asked. "She has plenty of witnesses. She can't go back on her word now," Annette told her. "There's no way he can't be," Harrison said. "Awesome!" Elliot and Kim gawked.

Laurie: and Lewis smile wide with the police officer while Mrs. Geddes and the woman officer were stunned. "Ronnie!" Ronnie swims over and pops his head up, cackling at them.

"Laurie's happy," Will said. "Who wouldn't be?" Charlotte asked. Though she had to admit, she herself was surprised to be happy. She was glad that Ronnie was back home safe. Maybe … maybe dolphins aren't so scary after all. Ronnie's definitely proven himself. "Yeah, why wouldn't he be? He cares for them so much, they might as well be his own. Laurie loves and cares for all the creatures he works with. That's why he works in this field and at the park. At least there, he gets to do both things he loves. Works and cares for the sea creatures while also studying them," Cleo explained.

Lewis: "You were saying?" Turns to the still stunned Mrs. Geddes. The policewoman slowly forms a grin on her face as Laurie continues to gawk at Ronnie.

"I think I like the girls' reactions more," Kim giggled. "It is amusing," Lisa chuckled along. "She deserves it," Cleo shrugged.

"I believe she said you are free to go," Charlotte smiled.

Policeman: to Laurie. "Is this the missing dolphin?"

Laurie: glances back and forth between him and Ronnie, pointing at the latter in excitement. "Y-yeah, tha – that's him! That's him!"

"No, it's a random dolphin that swam through the open gate," Kim sarcastically said. "Eh, you never know, it could happen," Lewis shrugged. "Don't ruin the moment," Kim rolled her eyes.

"He's really excited," Bella said a bit bewildered. "I told you, Laurie really cares for them. It's why I trust him as a – well you know," Cleo stuttered. Marine biologist, Denman knew what she was going to say. "They're like his own. He even cares for them on his days off," she continued.

"How does he know it's really him? With you girls, I can understand, but him …," Sam frowned. "Laurie's worked with them so much he just knows. Besides, each one has a personality, and Ronnie is definitely the most playful," Cleo smiled. "And spoiled, don't forget spoiled," Rikki said. "Don't act like you're not," Cleo retorted. "I am not," Rikki scoffed. "Zane spoils you," Emma smirked. "It's true. Don't deny it," Zane too smirked. At least someone can, Terry thought.

[Laurie walks past them to get to the dock. Ronnie follows him over to the edge. Mrs. Geddes gives Lewis a suspicious look as the blonde boy just keeps grinning, feeling relieved.]

"Seems like he cares more about him than the others. Just shoves them out of the way," Harrison chuckled. "Can you blame him? Dolphins are so much nicer than people," Cleo remarked. "Hey," Lewis pouted. "How rude," Kim griped. "Eh, agree to disagree," Charlotte was still a little shaky on that.

"What's with that look?" Will stared at Mrs. Geddes. "She probably can't believe that Ronnie just showed up out of nowhere. And she does have to go back on her word now," Bella snickered. "I'd be surprised too if I didn't know all the details," Terry laughed along.

[At the main entrance, the girls run through the entrance with Cleo ushering for them to come on. Her and Emma glance at Rikki walking through then they burst into a sprint toward the dolphin pool.]

"I hope you all remembered to close the underwater gate this time," Lisa frowned. "I'm sure we did, mom," Emma assured. "There's no way we're making that mistake twice," Rikki snorted. "I wouldn't be surprised," Lewis mumbled. "I'm not going to leave until that gate is shut. If they can open it from the other side, we can close it from that end too," Cleo said.

"How did you dry off so quickly?" Elliot asked. "You forget about my power, bud? I can have us back to human form in seconds," Rikki waved her fingers at him.

"Quit dragging your feet and go, Rikki," Terry sighed, slightly frustrated. "She just hates to be wrong," Zane teased. Rikki places a scowl on her face but when Zane pulls a funny face, she can't help but laugh.

[Laurie kneels down on the platform and holds his hand out sideways toward Ronnie. Ronnie responds by clicking and tilting his head.]

Laurie: to everyone, a crowd of employees and guests gathered around to observe the now-found dolphin. "He looks fine. Almost as if he's been here all along."

"It would if no one would have noticed he was gone," Ash said. "It would, if he were never gone in the first place," Neil said. "It would, if someone never caused a ruckus in the first place," Terry corrected, glancing at his daughter. "It was for the good of my heart," Rikki placed a hand over her heart. "Then it needs work," Lewis snorted. "They were bound to notice due to the feeding schedules. That and Laurie always checks on them every morning and closing time," Cleo mentioned.

"It has only been a day since he disappeared. Aside from his diet, not many changes would be noticeable at first glance," Sam figured. "A lot can happen in one day. Especially out in the wild. Well, underwater wild," Cleo responded.

"Guess everyone must have heard with that big of a crowd," Bev commented. "Everyone loves Ronnie," Cleo smiled. "News spreads fast on the Gold Coast," Kim said. "Only because you love to gossip," Cleo said. "It's a teenager thing. I'm just learning the stages early," Kim grinned.

Mrs. Geddes: shrugs and places her hands down with a shake of her head. Stands at the end of the dock with the crowd all behind her. "Uh, I don't understand how this would have happened." Cleo, Emma, and Rikki rush around the corner and join the crowd.

"You got there just in time girls, in more ways than one," Neil chuckled.

"It's a lot to explain," Mrs. Chatham shook her head with a laugh. "And not a single detail of it you deserve to know," Don narrowed his eyes. "There's no need to explain when magic is involved," Will smiled.

Lewis: "That's nature for you, Mrs. G. Full of wonders beyond our understanding." Stands next to the police officers, grinning at her with a hand on his hip.

"Don't be getting too cocky now. You just got out of trouble," Annette laughed. "I'm not, just informing her. Can't stop nature," Lewis shrugged. "Can't stop mermaids," Will corrected. "I believe that is something I told you once before," Mrs. Chatham raised a brow. "It is, but I edited it a little. Can't tell them that it was magic, then they would think I was even crazier than talking to a dolphin I hardly knew," Lewis said. "It's no different than them talking to the dolphins," Bella pointed out. "Yes, but they've been around them for a long time. I've only been there for two days and hardly knew them besides for their shows," Lewis stated. "Yeah, but with Ronnie back now it should make your story more plausible," Denman noted.

Policeman: to Mrs. Geddes: "You should get that gate checked too so it doesn't happen again."

Mrs. Geddes: "Yes, of course."

"It's not the gate you have to worry about," Zane chuckled. "She doesn't have to worry about us either – mainly because she doesn't know about us, but we're not going to be doing it either," Rikki said. Not if it hurts Cleo … and Lewis too, I guess. "Better not," Terry warned.

"It wouldn't hurt for the gate to have quarterly checkups. It is more at risk of rusting and breaking with it being underwater anyway. We check our boats and fishing equipment all the time for the same reasons," Don said.

Lewis: puts his hands on his hips, just like the cop. "And a simple apology will be fine." Fiddles with his hat.

"Oh, now you're getting real cocky," Zane barked with laughter. "In front of everyone too," Ash snickered. "Hey after what she put me through, it's the least she could do," Lewis said. "She's not the only one who needs to apologize," Cleo crossed her arms and turned to her friends. "You know we can't do it publicly. What excuse could we pull out of thin air in front of everyone?" Rikki asked. "You don't have to do it onscreen," Cleo gave them a look. Rikki rolled her eyes but relented, with a much easier Emma to handle. "Fine." "Sorry, Lewis," they both say. "That ought to do it," Lewis smiled smugly. "For real guys, thanks for getting me out of that," he breathed in relief. "You're our friend too. Our future-selves just need to remember that," Emma responded.

Mrs. Geddes: humored. "An apology?" Chuckles. "You must be kidding." Rikki looks gleefully at the others in the background.

"This is hardly a joking matter," Lewis taunted. "Oh, that would be perfect for you or Laurie to say to her," Ash brightened. "Laurie's too focused on dolphin duty," Elliot giggled.

"What's there to kid about? You caused him a lot of trouble," Don asked. "She wasn't the only one," Terry gave his daughter a stern look. "I've already apologized!" Rikki exclaimed. "Oh, now she wants to joke around," Bella mocked.

"She thinks highly-mighty of herself if she doesn't see a reason to apologize," Harrison shook his head. "Sounds like someone I used to know," Neil muttered, glancing at the elder Bennett. "Her ego needs to be knocked down a few notches," Kim said. "Oh, I think it's about to be," Rikki smirked. "That cockiness is starting to backfire on her now," Zane grinned.

"One perk of being an employee. Seeing the higher-ups such as managers getting told what to do," Terry chuckled. "Not in my kitchen," Annette hummed. "Wilfred isn't as bad as her. He's more of a friend I look up to than a boss. Tells me what to do, sure, but everyone listens to him because he thinks of himself as one of them, not like her. He's a natural-born leader," Emma said.

Policeman: "I don't think that's too much to ask. Unless you'd like your superiors to hear about the incident."

"Oh, I'd love to put a good word in or two," Don chuckled darkly.

"Are the police threatening her?" Rikki gawked. "I think it's blackmail," Zane grinned. "It might work, but legally he will have to report it to them. An incident took place at one of their parks, they'll have to file it and inform all parties involved," Sam chuckled. "In other words, she's screwed either way," Lewis had a smug smile on his face. "That's what you get for messing with my boyfriend," Cleo tipped her nose up at the screen. "With that many witnesses there, I'm sure they'll hear of it before the police can tell them," Harrison said.

Mrs. Geddes: smile fades and scowls. She was hesitant but eventually gives in. "Fine." Lewis turns his head and points a finger at his ear. Glances to the side. "I'm, uh … sorry. There. Happy?" Raises her brows.

"Now was that so hard?" Kim taunted. "I think it was, for her," Elliot mentioned. "I want it in writing," Don declared. "Never heard someone struggle so hard to say sorry before," Neil chuckled. "Well, I do know one person," Emma smirked at Rikki. "Oh, don't give me that look. You're just as stubborn as I am," Rikki scoffed.

"Your cockiness is returning," Cleo giggled. "I don't think it ever left," Ash said.

"A little bit. But I know one thing that can make it better," Lewis smiles at Cleo who furrows her brows in confusion.

Lewis: puts his hands on his hips. The police officers smile. "Hmm. Oh, actually, I do have one more request." Glances at the officer and they both turn to the manager. Nods his head in her direction. She looks confused at first before she turns around to find a confused brunette and two very excited blonde girls behind her who glance at one another with giddy smiles. Cleo shrugs, still confused as she glances behind her at the other two. She looks straight ahead to where Lewis gives her a big smile.

"I'm still confused," Cleo looked similar to what she did onscreen. "I think I know what it is," Charlotte smiled. "It better be what we think it is," Rikki and Emma said getting excited. "Me too," Don said, getting the same idea. "How come everyone gets it but me?" Cleo frowned. "A little on the slow side, huh Cleo?" Kim teased. "Will someone please explain?" Cleo said, getting frustrated. "Calm down. I got a feeling it's fixing to show us," Lewis turned her to face the screen.

"As long as she accepts that request," Annette said, trying to be reasonable. "With the police there and dozens of other eyes and ears, I highly doubt she'll reject it," Lewis snickered. "And if she doesn't accept, she'll have to deal with us," Bev gestured between her and Don. "I don't think she's going to like it," Will said. "Doesn't matter. Her only other option is the lawful side, and I don't think she'll be choosing that one so quickly," Ash mentioned.

"You're very clever, boy," Max laughed. "A little too clever if I can't figure it out," Cleo grumbled. "Just keep watching," Lewis turned her again.

[The next day, Lewis pushes the ice cream cart along with Cleo, who was now back in her uniform and working at the Marine Park once again. They stop at her spot near Ronnie's pool and stand on opposite sides of the cart. Emma and Rikki stood on each side of Lewis, with the former having an arm wrapped around the pole.]

"She's back!" Elliot fist-bumped the air. "Good," Kim smiled. Now her family will be okay. "Another thing that's returned to the Marine Park," Bev chuckled, happy for her daughter. "You get me my job back?!" Cleo squealed. "Who's the best boyfriend ever?" Lewis held his arms out. "You of course," Cleo hugged him and gave him a peck on the cheek. "No PDA!" she heard her father holler.

"But doesn't that mean you will lose your job? There's not another ice cream cart. Maybe you could work at another position, like the gift shop," Cleo offered. "You think I want to work with that nutcase after that incident? No thanks, you can keep it," Lewis jabbed a thumb at the screen. "Well, technically it wasn't her fault," Will reminded. "But it was her fault that the police were involved, she was greedy, cocky, and very rude," Lewis listed off then turned to Cleo. "I don't know how you deal with it." "It's worth it as long as I can see Ronnie," Cleo sighed in awe.

"You were never one to keep a job for long," Charlotte chuckled. "It was my first job!" Lewis yelled. "What about your time as Wilfred's internet worker?" she raised a brow. "That's an on-call thing," Lewis said. "What about with my finding my sea monster?" Zane inquired. "That was a one-time deal," Lewis said. "Unless you got another sea monster to hunt down?" "Not at the moment. I like the one I have," Zane turned to a blushing Rikki.

"She better not be rude to you. You let me know if she does, Cleo," Don said. "I doubt it if she doesn't want the police or superiors on her back," Harrison said. "Which won't matter because I'm sure they'll be cracking down on that soon," Sam informed.

Cleo: smiles. "It's good to be back."

"It's good to have you back," Lewis smiled. "It's great to be back," Cleo beamed.

"Thank you, Lewis. You're a lifesaver," Don smiled. "All he did was save you another argument," Bev muttered with a muffled laugh. "And it's a lifesaver. One of these days, those arguments are gonna give me a heart attack," Don whispered.

"Now I know my order won't be messed up," Rikki joked. "I didn't mess any up. You're the one who tampered with my order," Lewis argued.

Lewis: "You know one thing I won't miss about this job?" Points down then tips Cleo's hat as the dolphins squeal in delight in the background over the return of their favorite work mermaid. "The lame hat." Cleo gives him a look.

"Stop it; you like the hat, admit it," Cleo scoffed. "Eh, it's alright," Lewis waved it off. "Really? So, if we buy one from the gift shop, you wouldn't want it?" Charlotte raised a brow. "… I'd never turn down a gift," Lewis bit his lip as the two girls laugh. "It's not lame. There's nothing wrong with the hat. It doesn't even have a logo on it like the gift shop ones," Ash said. "They're actually pretty cool. They keep you cool too," Zane mentioned. "How would you know?" Harrison asked. "Because he kept taking mine while he was researching in the library," Cleo rolled her eyes at the memory. "Sounds like something an old married couple would do," Kim teased. "Don't bring that back up," Zane groaned in complaint.

"Are you trying to get her in another bad mood?" Kim asked. "Doesn't matter. Ronnie's safe, Lewis is safe, I get my job back. Everything's back to normal," Cleo finally relaxed in her chair.

Rikki: "Bet you'll miss the paycheck, though."

Lewis: nods. "Yes. Ouch."

"Yeah, that is one downer about quitting a job," Neil sighed. "But my reasons come with a lot of pros," Lewis watched Cleo continue to smile at the screen. Seeing that smile return on a beautiful face. "Another downside is that it's going to take longer to get you a new laptop now," Charlotte pointed out. "I'll deal with that later. Although maybe my future self will talk to Wilfred," Lewis remarked. "Just as long as you don't get me fired," Emma joked.

Cleo: "But seeing as you guys are gonna help cover the cost of Lewis's computer repairs, it won't matter, will it?" Gives the two girls a scolding look then puts a mischievous smile on her face. Rikki's face falters.

"And there's the downside for them," Zane laughed. "More like they're suffering the consequences of their actions," Harrison corrected. "Sounds like a good punishment to me," Neil stated. "Consequences? Punishment? Are you kidding? That's pure torture. Cleo, you have got to be joking," Rikki's face paled in shock. "Why would I joke about that?" Cleo asked. "It's hardly a –," Lewis went to mock, but Rikki cut him off. "Don't say it! I don't have that kind of money lying around," she snapped. "Then get a job!" nearly everyone screamed. Rikki bit her cheek and glanced down, a bit saddened by the claim. Terry remained silent, knowing nothing he said would make Rikki feel better. For he knew whatever money Rikki scrambled up, she helped to put toward bills or food. Sure, she'd feel bad about the debt she owes toward Lewis, but that would come last over the needs for her and her dad.

"Anything for a friend, right?" Bella matched Cleo's onscreen smile. "We put our foot in our mouths on that one, didn't we?" Emma turned to Rikki who nodded with a pout.

Emma: looks up. "I guess I could chip in." Lewis nods in thanks.

"That's right," Lisa nodded. "How much would it cost for computer repairs?" Will asked curiously. "For a new battery, I'd say probably a hundred bucks," Sam said. "That's not so bad," Zane responded. "Easy for you to say," Emma scowled. "As our daughter, it's expected of you to do the right thing," Neil gave her a stern look. "I still think it'd be better to get a new one than another battery. The new battery would only give you a lifespan of probably two more years rather than a new laptop," Charlotte suggested. "The more you hang out with him, the more you turn into a computer geek," Rikki shook her head.

Rikki: frowns. "You're dreaming."

"And then there's mine," Terry chuckled lightly, but the thoughts from earlier were still playing in the back of his mind.

"Come on, Rikki. Just this one time. He deserves it after everything he's been through," Cleo said. "Everything that you caused," Lewis pointed out. "If it happens – it won't – but if it did, I might consider it," Rikki crossed her arms, although her personal life kept reeling in her head, just like her dad. "It is the future. It's something we can change," Emma agreed. "Meaning no new laptop in my future," Lewis sighed.

Lewis: "Rikki, it is the least you can do." Gestures with a hand.

"He's right, it is the least. There is so much more he could've thought of," Denman said. "Me and him both," Cleo added. "I know," Rikki sighed, glancing down.

Rikki: points at him. "Your computer, your problem."

"That's not what you were thinking when it came to Cleo's problems now was it?" Don asked. "I think she's still angry about the whole job stealing thing," Zane stared at the screen, then at a gloomy Rikki. "Either that or she just doesn't want to help me," Lewis said. "I can only help so many people in one day," Rikki joked, but her tone wasn't as strong as it normally was.

Lewis: points back at her as Emma gives Cleo a look. "You are so uncharitable."

Rikki: jaw drops and glances at the others. "I am so charitable!" Lewis points his thumb at her. "I am the most charitable person I know other than Emma." Cleo leans against the cart breaking into laughter.

"That's a laugh!" Emma laughed. "Rikki does help people. It's just usually the people she likes. Like me!" Elliot beamed. "The list of people she likes is very short," Denman grinned. "Luckily, I'm one of the ones on that list. Right?" Zane turned to her. "Eh, for now," she shrugged, but Zane took it as it brought a small smile back on her face. He didn't know what got her down, but he didn't want to see it again.

"Here we go again," Bev shook her head in amusement. "See what I mean?" Don put a hand over his heart. "Same arguments, different people," Sam humored.

Lewis: "Well maybe you should get a job here, too!"

Rikki: "Well, maybe I will!" The two break into laughter. As they do, Ronnie swims around in the water. "Lewis!" They continue to laugh as Ronnie jumps up in the air and does a flip before diving back down with a splash.

"Well, almost everything," Max said, thinking of Cleo's earlier statement. "No, that's normal too," Cleo said. "Yeah, that's usually an every-other-day occasion," Emma nodded.

"Kind of like Cleo and Kim but in a non-sibling relationship way. Unless you think of him as a brother," Annette motioned between them. "Ew, no!" Rikki said in disgust. "The way I see it, you two are like siblings. Me and Elliot are similar. Not all the time, but we do fight sometimes," Emma said. "I've never had a sister, but I've been around Kim plenty of times to know what one is like. I guess in a way she is," Lewis admitted then turned to Rikki for an answer. "I hardly accept you as a friend. Don't push it," Rikki glared. Lewis laughed. "I'll take it," then they give each other a side hug. He knew she was feeling down about something as well. He wasn't going to push her, but he would be there for her.

"Well, that's it. Rikki, I know you wanna go home the most. Do you wanna take it?" Lewis held the remote out to her. Home, she thought. Just like them, but so different from theirs. But it was still her home, her lifestyle. A place she did want to get back to. "Sure," she said a bit quietly and takes the remote. If pressing a little button will get her back to where she belongs, then it should be fine, shouldn't it? She hoped so as she pressed play.