On Saturday morning, the household awakens for breakfast. Steven attends to Tyson's travel-sized food and water bowls.
"Andy, how do you manage?" Lucas inquires.
"Manage what?" Andy responds.
"Dealing with someone like Steven," Lucas clarifies.
"Someone like Steven? What do you mean by that? Are you genuinely trying to insult him?" Andy replies, visibly annoyed.
Audrey quickly steps in. "I believe Lucas is asking how you cope with having a brother who is autistic. What is your daily routine with him?" she suggests, aiming to prevent any miscommunication.
"He should have phrased it that way," Andy sighs. "I don't 'manage' Steven. He's not a pet. I value and support him. Living with a sibling who has autism presents challenges, but it is certainly manageable. The only person who shows no concern for him is Hannah."
"Your older sister, right? You mentioned her yesterday. It seems like you two aren't very close," Lucas observes.
"There's no way to quantify my relationship with her. She genuinely despises both me and Steven. She constantly mocks us, spreads falsehoods about us to her friends, and tries to offload her chores onto us. It's astonishing that Steven and I have managed to maintain our sanity while living with her," Andy explains.
"What causes her to act this way?" Audrey asks.
"I have no clue. There could be countless reasons. It might stem from her dissatisfaction with no longer being the only child or her desire for a sister. Another factor could be her jealousy over the timing of our pets; I got my cat Angel before she got her dog Princess, and Steven got Tyson. She believes that, as the eldest, she should have been the first to have a pet and that she should be the only one with one," Andy elaborates.
"Is her dog problematic?" Lucas inquires.
"Problematic? She is far more than that. She embodies pure malevolence," Carlos responds. "Do not let her name, Princess, deceive you into believing she is a well-mannered and gentle dog. In reality, she is quite the opposite—aggressive and prone to biting."
"Indeed, he is correct. She behaves exactly as described. Hannah fails to discipline her at all. I once had a cherished Yoda pillow on my bed. One day, Princess stealthily entered my room and soiled it. I was infuriated. I informed Hannah about the incident, but instead of reprimanding Princess, she commended her for it. The odor remained in the pillow despite numerous washes, and regrettably, I had to dispose of it. On another occasion, while working on a delicate science project on the living room floor, Princess unexpectedly charged in and destroyed it. Hannah merely laughed as I pleaded with her to prevent her dog from ruining my schoolwork. There was also a moment when Steven was watching Sesame Street, eagerly anticipating his favorite segment, Elmo's World. When Elmo told a humorous joke, Steven laughed heartily. Apparently, his laughter was too loud for Hannah, who then instructed Princess to bite him. She nipped at his finger and growled menacingly as he screamed in terror," Andy recounts.
"That is astonishing. Why haven't your parents considered rehoming Princess?" Audrey asks. "Or enrolling her in an obedience class?"
"Hannah is opposed to rehoming, and I can understand her sentiment. Additionally, Princess has been effectively banned from all local obedience classes. The nearest alternatives are located in larger cities such as San Francisco and San Diego. My father is unlikely to drive such distances and incur significant expenses only for Princess to be banned again," Andy explains. "He and my mother have repeatedly urged Hannah to discipline Princess, but she merely promises to do so to quell what she perceives as their 'nagging,' putting forth minimal effort in fulfilling her responsibilities as a dog owner."
"What breed is Princess, exactly?" Audrey inquires with curiosity.
"A chihuahua," Carlos replies succinctly.
"Is that not a breed you fancy?" Lucas interjects, sensing a shift in the atmosphere.
Carlos casts a disapproving glance in his direction.
"What's the matter?" Lucas asks, perplexed by the sudden tension.
"Seriously, man? Do you honestly believe I adore that breed simply because it hails from Mexico, just like me? What's next? Are you going to assume I only indulge in tacos and sway to Latin rhythms? I am more than just my heritage," Carlos articulates with a hint of frustration.
"I didn't mean to imply anything racial, dude. Many of my classmates of Latin descent come from various backgrounds—Cuba, Mexico, Honduras, Spain, and beyond. They all seem to have chihuahuas, so I thought you might share that preference. I apologize for my hasty assumption based on your ethnicity," Lucas responds earnestly.
"It's alright. I'm not upset anymore. It was a well-meaning yet irritating oversight," Carlos concedes. "I do wish for a pet, though. If I could choose, I would have a German Shepherd, much like Tyson."
Audrey inquires, "What is your cat Angel like, Andy? What led you to choose a cat over a dog, unlike your siblings?"
She possesses a gentle and loving nature. My desire for a cat has been longstanding, dating back to when I was five years old. However, I had to wait until I reached middle school to finally have one. Currently, I am in the sixth grade. As a reward for my good academic performance, my parents decided to take me to the animal shelter one day after school. That particular day had been quite challenging for me. The eighth graders had relentlessly bullied me, and since the beginning of middle school, I have often been the target of Zeke, the captain of the basketball team. During recess, he and his teammates isolated me and attempted to see if I could fit through a basketball hoop. They lifted me and threw me toward it, but I became stuck halfway and was unable to get down. Their laughter echoed as they left me there, crying for assistance. Fortunately, the janitor witnessed the incident through a window, retrieved a ladder, and helped me down. He then located those boys and brought them to the principal's office, where they received a stern lecture about the unacceptability of bullying. They were suspended for two weeks, assigned extra homework, and required to write a lengthy apology letter to me. While I took some satisfaction in their punishment, I still felt disheartened by their actions. To lift my spirits, my father promised to take me somewhere special. We visited an animal shelter in Los Angeles, where I was given the freedom to choose any animal I desired. I observed numerous dogs and cats, yet I did not feel a connection with any of them until I came across a cage containing Angel. She was alone and preferred solitude, mirroring my own shyness and timidity at school. When she looked at me, I smiled, and she approached, purring softly. Her purr resembled the sound of a motorcycle, which made me laugh.
"Upon opening the cage, she sprang into my embrace. Her eyes locked onto mine, revealing her awareness of my earlier tears. The bond we shared felt profoundly authentic. I yearned for her to be my companion for life, which ultimately led to my decision to adopt her. I procured all necessary supplies for her from PetSmart, and my anticipation to bring her home was palpable. However, Hannah expressed her discontent with my choice to adopt a cat, voicing her complaints incessantly. In a moment of frustration, I firmly instructed her to cease her remarks, assuring her that I would do everything within my power to safeguard Angel from her. This response did not sit well with Hannah, resulting in her striking me and subsequently facing grounding as a consequence." Andy recounts.
"Do you believe we could meet Angel upon our return to Los Angeles?" Audrey inquires.
"Are you interested in meeting my cat?" Andy responds, taken aback.
"Yes, certainly. Is that feasible? Or would it pose a problem?" Audrey replies.
"Based on the brief time I have known you, your brother, and your father, you have not exactly treated me and Steven kindly. Just yesterday, you misled your father by claiming that I pushed Lucas at the horse ranch, despite witnessing him shove me first. Although you eventually corrected your statement, the initial dishonesty has left me wary of trusting you. Until you and Lucas demonstrate that you can be considerate individuals, my beloved cat will remain off-limits to you," Andy states. "Nothing about you suggests a genuine affection for animals. I am not sensing that at all."
"I genuinely care for animals. In fact, I find Tyson to be an incredibly sweet and affectionate dog, yet he seems reluctant to allow me near him. What could be the reason for that?" Audrey asks.
"Instinct. Animals are adept at picking up on human energy. They can discern whether someone is good or bad. From the moment I met you, Lucas, and your father yesterday, it was clear that you three were not particularly kind to me and Steven. Tyson sensed that immediately. As a German shepherd, he is naturally inclined to protect, whether it be livestock or as a police dog. His loyalty lies with Steven and me. Once you show that you can treat us well, he may allow you to pet him. Until then, please do not push the issue," Andy advises.
"Alright, I will heed your suggestion," Audrey remarks.
After everyone has finished their meals and taken showers, Mr. Mark leads them to the lake and onto his boat.
"I could conduct some scientific research here, perhaps examining the microorganisms that inhabit this water," Logan states. He is suddenly startled by a loud crunching noise and turns to see Carlos eating an apple.
"Where did you acquire that apple?" he inquires.
"From the lake house. I'm feeling hungry. Why do you ask?" Carlos replies.
"We just had breakfast a mere 15 minutes ago. How can you still be hungry?" Logan questions.
Carlos shrugs. "I have no idea. Must be teenage hormones," he laughs.
Logan chuckles and sighs. "I don't know why I continue to be surprised by this. You've always been like this. Perhaps you should be my next subject of study to understand why teenage boys perpetually feel famished," he suggests.
"Really? You want to study me? That's awesome!" Carlos exclaims with enthusiasm.
"I was merely joking, Carlos. I don't need to conduct research on you to understand your constant hunger. You simply enjoy eating," Logan clarifies.
"Aw, man. I was hoping to be your science project," Carlos laments.
"Is that so?" Logan asks.
"Absolutely. We could be science buddies, donning lab coats and using elaborate scientific terminology," Carlos proposes.
"What a delightful idea, Carlos. Perhaps one day we will achieve that," Logan responds. "Your unwavering loyalty is truly remarkable."
"How do you plan to conduct scientific research on the microorganisms present in the water without your science kit?" Carlos inquires.
"With BuddyBot, of course," Logan replies.
"Are you referring to that toy you are holding?" Lucas questions.
"BuddyBot is not a toy. He is an advanced piece of technology," Logan asserts.
"He?" Lucas asks. "Is it alive and self-aware?"
"In a manner of speaking," Logan responds.
"It resembles a robot toy available at Walmart, from those build-your-own-robot kits," Audrey comments.
Logan sighs. "As I just explained to Lucas, BuddyBot is not a toy," he states.
"Why does it appear that way then? It doesn't seem professionally constructed," Lucas remarks.
"I built BuddyBot when I was just six years old," Logan explains.
"Wait, you actually constructed that when you were six? Most children at that age are either playing with their favorite toys or experimenting with glue, but you clearly were not like the typical six-year-old," Lucas observes.
"Please refrain from calling BuddyBot a thing. He is much more than just bolts and screws. He is my companion," Logan insists.
"How can a robot truly be a friend?" Audrey inquires with curiosity.
"Have you seen the Disney film Big Hero Six? BuddyBot embodies the loyalty and intelligence of BayMax," Logan replies. "And you're absolutely right, Lucas; I certainly didn't fit the mold of the typical six-year-old. I was often perceived as the peculiar, introverted child, lost in the pages of a book, shying away from social interactions. I never felt a sense of belonging among my peers. So, when my elementary school organized a science fair, I took it upon myself to create BuddyBot. Even the achievement of constructing a fully operational robot in first grade failed to impress my classmates; instead, it merely provided the bullies with more reasons to torment me."
"That's truly remarkable. At just six years old, you had the foresight to build a robot. Most individuals require a college education or specialized training to accomplish such a feat. You, however, relied on your own ingenuity and resources to teach yourself, didn't you?" Audrey remarks.
"Indeed. I can delve into my scientific research once we reach the shore. For now, it seems your father is on the lookout for an ideal swimming spot in the lake. We've been on the move for nearly an hour without pause," Logan responds.
After a brief interval of ten minutes, Mr. Mark gracefully halts the vessel. "Alright, children, we've arrived at a splendid swimming location. However, if you prefer to remain dry aboard the boat, that is perfectly acceptable as well. Enjoy yourselves."
He gazes down at the shimmering water, hesitating momentarily before taking the plunge. "I wonder if it's chilly," muses Logan.
"Why not find out?" James retorts, playfully nudging him into the water. Logan lets out a startled yelp as he splashes into the depths, surfacing with a disgruntled expression directed at his towering companion. "James!"
"What's the issue? You were curious about the temperature. Now you can experience it firsthand. Consider it a favor," James replies with a smirk.
"Not cool, my friend! You pull this stunt every time we're near water! Please stop!" Logan protests.
"Chill out. You're wearing a life jacket. There's no risk of drowning. You're perfectly safe," James reassures him.
"That's not the point!" Logan retorts, frustration evident in his voice as he exhales deeply.
James then leaps into the water, swimming towards him. "I apologize, Logan. Initially, I thought it was amusing, but I see now that it upset you, and I disregarded your feelings each time I pushed you in. That makes me a poor friend and brother."
In a sudden burst of playfulness, Logan splashes him and chuckles. "If you can catch me, I'll forgive you." He swiftly swims away.
"Challenge accepted," James laughs, diving after him.
"Wow, they're quick," Audrey observes, admiring the camaraderie between James and Logan as they reconcile and revel in the water.
"Logan tends to forgive quite easily, unless the offense is particularly egregious; then he may harbor resentment for days until he's ready to accept an apology," Kendall elaborates.
"Logan has always been this way for as long as we've known him," Carlos adds, nodding in agreement.
Logan and James, having grown weary of their swimming activities, decide to return to the boat.
After a duration of two hours, Mr. Mark approaches the shoreline, allowing everyone to disembark and enjoy a stroll along the sandy beach.
"Tyler, let us embark on an adventure to uncover hidden treasures along the beach," Katie suggests.
"That sounds like a great idea," Tyler responds enthusiastically.
"Steven, would it be possible for Tyson to join us?" Katie inquires.
Steven consents with a nod.
"Thank you, my friend. Come along, Tyson. This adventure will be much more enjoyable with you," Katie exclaims.
Tyson barks with excitement and eagerly follows Katie and Tyler.
"Make sure you don't wander too far!" Kendall calls out to them. "James, please accompany them."
"Are you really entrusting me with the care of the turbo twins and their canine companion?" James replies incredulously, chuckling. "Well, good luck with that decision," he adds as he trails after Katie, Tyler, and Tyson.
"He has a valid point. Even he recognizes that he may not be the most reliable guardian for two ten-year-olds," Logan remarks.
"He will manage just fine. I trust that he will ensure their safety. Moreover, in this scenario, Tyson is the one who will be responsible," Kendall asserts.
"You are placing your entire trust in a dog for their safety?" Lucas asks, taken aback.
"Tyson is an exceptionally loyal and dependable dog. I would willingly put myself in harm's way for him," Kendall replies.
"Is Steven comfortable not being with Tyson?" Audrey inquires. "I assumed they needed to be together at all times."
"Tyson is off duty right now. At this moment, he is simply a playful dog. He only becomes serious when he is wearing his service dog vest."
"What is Steven's thought process like? Specifically, how does he navigate his life as an autistic individual?" Lucas questions.
With a sigh and a shrug, the response comes, "To be honest, I am unsure how he manages, but I can say it is not easy for him. He is often perceived as a 'slow thinker' in school, frequently chosen last for dodgeball during gym class, and subjected to constant bullying. He is seen solely through the lens of his diagnosis, rather than as a person. Although he attempts to be sociable, his shyness holds him back. I have gently encouraged him to engage with some of the kinder students at our school, but unfortunately, they have all turned him away. They do not consider it 'cool' to befriend someone they label as a 'crippled brain kid.' This is why he struggles to trust anyone as a friend. His experiences with our classmates have been so negative that he is uncertain when he will find a true friendship," Andy explains.
Audrey observes, "I understand that children with special needs frequently encounter challenges in forming friendships, but based on my experiences with Steven, he is truly an exceptional individual with whom to cultivate a sincere friendship. His kindness and compassion are remarkable." She continues, "It is disheartening to witness the negativity he endures from his classmates. Nevertheless, he seems to navigate these difficulties quite well, doesn't he?"
"Indeed, he has both Tyson and me for support," Andy replies. "On Tyson's inaugural day as a service dog, all the teachers were informed and prepared for his introduction alongside Steven at school. The anticipation was palpable, with everyone excited about the arrival of a dog on campus. However, the situation took a turn when it was announced that Tyson was not to be petted or distracted from his duties as a service dog for Steven. Many students expressed their disappointment, claiming it was unjust. Some even accused Steven of feigning autism and fabricating the necessary documentation to secure Tyson's special permission to accompany him to school. Navigating the hallways between classes became a challenge for Steven, as he faced hostile glares from his peers. That day was particularly difficult for both of us; as his brother, I was unfairly perceived as the one 'enabling Steven to act autistic.' I am unsure what that even means. Regardless, Steven was eager to return home and escape the negativity, and it was distressing to witness his anxiety."
"You are truly remarkable, Andy. Your dedication to Steven and your ability to support him through his challenges is nothing short of extraordinary," Lucas remarks.
"Thank you, but I don't see myself as a hero. In truth, he is my hero. He looks after me just as much as I look after him. One day, when we have grown up, we plan to own a magnificent beach house in Florida and run a multimillion-dollar video game development company that is exclusively inclusive. We will visit Disney World frequently. This has been our dream since we were in kindergarten," Andy replies.
"That is quite an ambitious aspiration you both have," Jo comments.
"Thank you," Andy responds.
"When you mention it being exclusively inclusive, do you mean that only individuals from the special needs community will be employed there?" Camille inquires.
"Yes, that is precisely what I mean. We would never consider hiring someone like Hannah. Unless she were to take on an unpaid intern role, which she would likely refuse due to her inflated ego. I am uncertain about her future, but if she does not address her attitude now during her teenage years, her adult life will likely be quite challenging," Andy explains.
Down the stretch of shoreline...
"Twenty minutes of searching and still no hidden treasure," Katie laments.
"We have nothing to show for our efforts," Tyler adds gloomily.
"But you do have something to bring back - a very sandy dog. Just look at Tyson, covered in sand," James points out.
They all turn to see the sand-coated German Shepherd wagging his tail happily at them.
"He's just enjoying himself in the sand. Nothing wrong with that," Katie defends.
"I just don't want us to get scolded by Steven when we get back to the group," James voices his concern.
"I highly doubt Steven will be upset with us. I'm starting to get bored anyway. Shall we head back?" Katie suggests.
"Agreed," Tyler nods.
"Sounds good to me," James agrees.
With that, they all begin making their way back to rejoin the rest of the group.
When Katie, Tyler, James, and Tyson emerged, Andy burst into laughter. "What happened to Tyson? Did he stumble into a sandstorm?"
"He frolicked in the sand like it was heaven on earth," James explains.
"Well, we could try rinsing him off in the ocean, but I'm not sure salt water is the best bathing solution. He's not a big fan of baths," Andy suggests.
"Why not?" Katie inquires.
"Hannah," Andy replies.
"What did she do to him that made him despise baths?" Katie wonders.
"In a moment that could have turned tragic, she nearly subjected him to a scalding fate during his tender puppyhood. She insists it was merely an 'accident,' yet both Steven and I are acutely aware of her true intentions. When Tyson was just three months old, we decided to give him a refreshing bath after he had frolicked in a muddy puddle in our backyard. We filled the tub with warm, inviting water, believing it would soothe him. To keep him entertained, we ventured downstairs to fetch some of his favorite toys. Unbeknownst to us, Hannah had slipped into the bathroom to tamper with the water temperature, hastily retreating as we approached. We remained oblivious to the fact that the water had turned dangerously hot. As soon as Tyson's tiny paws made contact with the water, he emitted a heart-wrenching, spine-tingling scream that left us utterly bewildered. Upon checking, we discovered the water was scalding. We swiftly removed Tyson from the tub, attempting to soothe his distress. Our parents rushed upstairs, alarmed by the commotion. When we recounted the incident, they immediately suspected Hannah. She vehemently denied any wrongdoing, putting on a performance as if she were facing a tribunal. It wasn't until my father confiscated her phone and laptop that she reluctantly confessed, claiming it was an accident. She asserted that she had merely entered the bathroom to retrieve her shampoo bottle and, in a moment of clumsiness, had inadvertently turned the faucet to increase the water temperature. Steven and I exchanged knowing glances, fully aware that her story was nothing but a fabrication. She never checks her shampoo supply until it's completely depleted, a habit that drives us to distraction. Deep down, we both knew she had deliberately cranked the water to its highest setting, driven by some twisted desire to inflict pain on our beloved Tyson. That girl is truly unhinged." Andy explains.
"It appears that Hannah is grappling with significant, unaddressed anger and a notable lack of impulse control," Lucas remarks.
"Indeed, it seems that way," Andy replies.
"Children, I have prepared the jet skis for use. I retrieved them from my storage unit. Who would like to be the first to ride?" Mr. Mark inquires.
"Logan should go!" James exclaims.
"What?! James! No, I do not want to! Why would you put me forward like that?!" Logan protests.
"Because you enjoy excitement," James responds.
"Since when?" Logan questions.
"During our concerts, you perform backflips from high platforms as part of our acts," James explains.
"That is entirely different. I am with you during those performances, and I have practiced countless times to ensure I do not fall incorrectly and injure myself! You know that! We always coordinate our backflips during the shows, perfectly timed with the music, and I feel secure. Out here, I do not feel the same. You can go first on the jet ski. I refuse to risk my safety on that contraption," Logan asserts.
"You're such a coward," Lucas mutters under his breath.
"Did you just call me a coward?! Seriously?! Just because I don't want to be the first on the jet ski makes me a coward?! Fine! I will do it! I will show you that I am not a coward!" Logan declares, climbing onto the jet ski and struggling to start it. He quickly manages to turn on the engine.
"Wait, Logan, I will accompany you. My cousin Roberto taught me some basics about operating one. I want to ensure you stay safe," Carlos offers.
"Alright. Get on," Logan replies. "I will sit behind you."
Carlos positions himself in front and revs the engine. "What does this button do?" he asks, pressing it.
Logan's eyes widen as he attempts to caution him. "Wait, Carlos, I think that's the acce-..." Before he can complete his warning, they accelerate rapidly, both screaming as the jet ski bounces wildly over the waves.
"This is entirely your doing, Lucas," Kendall seethes, his voice laced with anger.
Lucas's response is swift and defensive. "And how, pray tell, is any of this my fault?"
"If you hadn't insulted Logan and called him a coward, he wouldn't have felt the need to prove you wrong by hopping onto that jet ski he had no interest in riding in the first place! If something happens to them out there, it's on you," Kendall accuses.
Lucas shakes his head adamantly. "I may have lit the match, but they willingly threw themselves into the fire. I am not responsible for their reckless actions."
"They're terrified, Lucas. Can't you see that?" Kendall pleads.
As the two argue, their eyes widen in horror as Logan and Carlos zoom past them, still screaming and unable to control the jet ski.
Camille's voice trembles with worry. "Someone needs to intervene before they crash!"
Mr. Mark's authoritative voice cuts through the chaos. "One of you boys needs to push the red button on the jet ski to shut it off!"
Lucas grumbles in frustration. "They're too busy screaming to hear you. What do we do now?"
"Typically, when Carlos experiences panic, he begins to speak rapidly in Spanish, prompting Logan to intervene and provide reassurance. However, in this instance, both are in a state of distress, necessitating external assistance to soothe them. The solution lies in the use of Spanish, as Logan is capable of communicating in that language with Carlos. "We simply need to capture his attention," Katie asserts. "Logan, Logan! Speak Spanish to Carlos!" she exclaims.
Logan, unable to hear her clearly, responds, "What?!"
"Use Spanish with Carlos, just like you always do to help him relax! Instruct him to press the red button!" Katie urges, raising her voice.
"Carlos, presiona el botón rojo para detener la moto de agua," Logan calmly directs.
Carlos acknowledges the instruction with a nod and presses the button. The jet ski finally ceases its movement, and both teenagers exhale in relief, grateful that their frightening experience has concluded.
The group rushes over to check on their well-being.
"Are you boys alright?" Ms. Knight inquires.
"I feel a bit nauseous," Logan admits, visibly unsettled.
"I feel as though I'm still in motion. Am I still on the jet ski?" Carlos questions.
"Carlos, you can open your eyes now. You've been on solid ground for about thirty seconds," Kendall informs him.
"I think I need some time alone in a dark, quiet place. Perhaps an empty closet or a cave," Logan suggests.
"I might require therapy," Carlos adds, his voice trembling from lingering fear.
"Carlos, you mentioned that your cousin instructed you on how to operate a jet ski. What transpired? It seemed to spiral out of control," Logan remarked.
"The one we were riding was quite sophisticated and brand new. The jet ski my cousin taught me on was far less advanced. I assumed the difference wouldn't be significant. I truly apologize, Logan. I must have completely spoiled your day," Carlos replied, a wave of guilt washing over him.
"You didn't spoil my day. That was Lucas," Logan countered.
"What?!" Lucas exclaimed.
"Indeed, he was the one who spoiled your day," Carlos affirmed.
"Dad, don't heed their words. When I called Logan a wimpy coward, it was merely reverse psychology," Lucas defended himself.
"Reverse psychology?" Mr. Mark inquired, puzzled.
"Yes, that's precisely what I employed," Lucas insisted.
"That's not how reverse psychology operates!" Logan interjected.
"What are you, some sort of Dr. Phil expert on reverse psychology?" Lucas mocked.
"No, but I can distinguish between employing reverse psychology and hurling insults. I was reluctant to ride the jet ski, and you mocked me for it. Your behavior was quite unkind," Logan stated. "Which seems to be your preferred pastime. You claimed you would perform better."
"Alright, that's enough," Mr. Mark sighed. "Lucas made an error, but he is not a bad child."
"I never claimed he was, sir," Logan replied, maintaining a composed demeanor despite his visible distress.
Crossing his arms, Lucas retorted, "It was heavily implied in your tone."
Frustration mounting, Logan groaned, "I'm finished dealing with you. I will focus on what I should have been doing all along—conducting scientific research with BuddyBot. If I remain here, wasting even a fraction of oxygen in your presence, I fear my brain might just explode." He stormed off in a huff.
"I should go after him," Camille suggested, but Kendall intervened.
"No, Cami, he requires his solitude at this moment. Trust me, it's for his own benefit," he advised.
Sighing in agreement, Camille conceded, "I understand."
Several hours after returning to the lake house, everyone feels fatigued from the day's activities and engages in leisurely pursuits.
"May I ask you something, Kendall? How do you manage it?" Lucas inquires as he enters the living room.
"Manage what, precisely?" Kendall replies, reclining on the couch and reluctantly glancing up from his hockey magazine to address him.
"Being a good friend. During the jet ski incident today, you seemed genuinely concerned for Carlos and Logan. If I had been in that situation, my friends would have likely panicked. You maintained a level of calmness while still being worried. Is there a particular approach you follow?" Lucas asks.
"There is no particular approach. I have known my friends for many years, and I understand their personalities. Being a protective friend is fundamental to any strong relationship. Katie was the one who truly saved Carlos and Logan today; you are aware of that. Had I not been so preoccupied with my frustration towards you, I would have suggested her idea of calming Carlos by speaking Spanish to him. That would have been my advice, but I am pleased she took the initiative. Now, if you will excuse me, I would like to return to my hockey magazine," Kendall states, redirecting his attention to it.
Logan showered Katie with gratitude for her quick thinking that saved him and Carlos on the jet ski earlier that day. He confessed that in the heat of the moment, he was too frazzled to come up with a solution himself. "You were our hero today," he affirmed.
Katie, ever humble, downplayed her heroism. "I just couldn't bear to see you and Carlos in danger. I'm just glad you're both safe," she replied.
Audrey was curious about Katie's ability to communicate with Carlos in Spanish. Logan explained that Carlos had been teaching them both the language for years, starting when they all lived in Minnesota. "We've been able to decipher his Spanish when he speaks to us," he added.
Audrey wondered why Kendall and James weren't as fluent as Katie and Logan. Logan shared that while they knew the basics, they hadn't put in the same effort to learn more, which he knew frustrated Carlos.
"Logan, how did your investigation with BuddyBot unfold? Did you uncover anything intriguing?" Lucas inquires.
"I have no intention of discussing it with you. Just leave me be," Logan replies, his gaze fixed on the screen of his computer.
"Are you still sulking over what happened earlier? Stop being so sensitive. Move on. You're such a coward," Lucas retorts.
At the brink of his patience, Logan erupts, "Enough! Just get away from me!" His sudden outburst draws the attention of those nearby.
"Back off of Logan, Lucas!" Tyler interjects.
"You idiot!" Lucas snaps, flicking Tyler's forehead.
"Ow!" Tyler exclaims.
"Rude!" Katie exclaims, rushing to defend her best friend by stepping forcefully on Lucas' foot.
"Ouch! That stings!" Lucas protests.
"You just flicked Tyler's forehead. Did you think that wouldn't hurt him? I merely returned the favor," Katie asserts.
Lucas raises his fist, ready to retaliate, but Kendall seizes it firmly, leaning in with a fierce, penetrating glare. "If you lay a finger on my sister, I will not hesitate to shatter every bone in your body. You'll find yourself in a cast, learning to walk and talk all over again. I will not allow anyone to harm her. It's alarming that your only outlet for anger is to inflict pain on others, especially young girls. You're on a path to becoming a juvenile delinquent."
"Let me go! I want to be free!" Lucas pleads, struggling to break free.
"Promise me you will never raise your hand against Katie. Promise me! Now!" Kendall demands, his tone fiery and resolute.
Realizing the gravity of the situation, Lucas concedes, "Fine! I promise I promise I won't hurt or threaten her!" He hopes this will appease Kendall.
"Very well," Kendall replies, releasing Lucas from his grip.
"What is transpiring here? Did you just issue a threat to Lucas?" Mr. Mark exclaims as he rushes into the room alongside Ms. Knight.
"He was about to strike Katie. He intended to harm her. I had no choice; it is my responsibility as her older brother," Kendall defends his actions with conviction.
"It's all Logan and Kendall's doing, Dad! They instigated this entire debacle!" Audrey falsely claims.
"What?!" both Kendall and Logan exclaim in disbelief.
"Sir, they are blameless. Allow me to clarify what truly occurred," Andy interjects, recounting the sequence of events.
"Uh-huh. I understand. Hmmm," Mr. Mark responds, listening intently. "Lucas, you made an error. Do not repeat it."
"Is that all? You won't impose any consequences? Did you not hear me say he raised his fist against Katie?! He was poised to strike her! You cannot simply dismiss that!" Kendall protests.
"She is unharmed, is she not? He did not inflict any injury upon her," Mr. Mark counters.
"He intended to, and you appear disturbingly unconcerned about that. How would you react if a man or teenage boy threatened Audrey? Would you remain indifferent if someone harmed your own daughter?" Kendall challenges.
"That is enough of undermining my parenting abilities," Mr. Mark retorts.
"Do not raise your voice at my son. He is entirely justified in his anger towards you, even if it means elevating his tone," Ms. Knight asserts.
Mr. Mark exhales in frustration. "It is quite late. We all ought to retire for the night," he states.
"Of course. I do not require your prompting to do so. I am utterly fatigued," Kendall replies, ascending the stairs alongside the other children.
