On Sunday morning, Mr. Mark sounds a bugle loudly, startling everyone awake.
In the boys' room, chaos erupts in response to the unexpected wake-up call.
Carlos, still in a daze, forgets he is on the upper bunk and neglects to use the ladder, resulting in a fall onto James, who is just getting out of the lower bunk. Both emit groans from the collision.
"Was that a bugle, or am I still in a dream? Please tell me I am still dreaming," Logan mumbles sleepily, his eyes still shut, reluctant to rise.
From the lower bunk, Kendall sits up, yawning and stretching. "It was definitely a bugle for some inexplicable reason."
"Why would that be?" Tyler inquires.
"I have no idea. Let us go investigate," Kendall responds, still displeased about being roused.
They all leave the room.
In the hallway, they encounter the other children, who appear just as weary from the bugle's abrupt interruption.
"It wasn't a dream, was it?" Camille yawns.
"I had the same thought, but it was indeed real," Logan confirms.
As the group descends the staircase, a palpable tension fills the air.
Steven, visibly agitated, makes his way down, his hands pressed firmly against his ears while clutching a plush Elmo toy. He mutters softly to himself, lost in his own world.
"What's his deal? Why is he behaving so strangely?" Lucas inquires, a hint of mockery in his voice.
With a deep sigh of exasperation, Andy retorts, "He's not strange! Loud sounds overwhelm him. He simply can't handle them."
"Is that why he's clutching a child's toy? Elmo is meant for toddlers. He's acting like a two-year-old," Audrey chimes in, her tone dripping with disdain as she chuckles.
"Steven adores Elmo, and there's absolutely nothing wrong with that. He's far more mature than either of you could ever comprehend," Andy defends passionately. "Stop bullying him; I've had enough of your antics this weekend."
"Shut your mouth!" Lucas snaps back.
"Make me!" Andy challenges defiantly.
"Alright, that's enough. Let's not escalate this, Lucas," Logan interjects, attempting to restore order.
"Children, please gather in the living room," Mr. Mark calls from within the room.
They obediently file in and take their seats on the plush couches.
"I sounded the bugle to share an important announcement," he continues, his voice commanding attention.
"Unfortunately, that didn't sit well with Steven. He's still reeling from the stress of the loud noise," Andy observes, concern etched on his face.
Steven remains hunched over, his ears covered, swaying gently in his seat, emitting soft moans of distress.
In a tender gesture, Tyson approaches, licking Steven's face and resting a comforting paw on his lap, offering solace in the midst of chaos.
"Tyson, you're such a good boy," Steven coos as he embraces his beloved furry friend.
"I overheard the heated discussion in the hallway when you were all making your way downstairs. Did you manage to resolve it?" Mr. Mark inquires.
Simultaneously, Lucas nods and declares, "Yes," while Andy shakes his head and counters, "No."
Their gazes lock, and it seems as though another argument is imminent.
Seeing the tension rising, Logan wisely positions himself between them, acting as a peacemaker.
"We're off to the zoo. A visit there never fails to bring joy to all who attend," Mr. Mark announces with a smile.
"I still fail to comprehend the necessity of using a bugle to awaken us with the announcement of our trip to the zoo," Lucas articulates.
"I concur with him on this matter. It seems illogical to have done that," Kendall adds.
"My intention was to be inventive," Mr. Mark responds.
"You believed that creating a loud disturbance with a bugle at 6:30 in the morning, potentially inducing minor heart attacks, was a creative approach to inform us about a day at the zoo?" Audrey inquires, raising an eyebrow.
"Indeed," Mr. Mark replies, observing their discontented expressions. "It appears from your faces that this was not the most prudent decision. My apologies."
"My dear, I warned you that such an approach would not be well-received. Teenagers are particularly averse to having their slumber disrupted," Ms. Knight comments.
"And neither do ten-year-olds," Katie interjects.
"Exactly," Tyler agrees.
"I apologize to all of you. Nevertheless, do you still wish to proceed to the zoo?" Mr. Mark asks.
"Certainly. I just hope that no one ruins this day," Kendall remarks, casting a glance at Lucas and Audrey.
"You are just as likely to disrupt the day as anyone else present," Lucas retorts.
"No, that responsibility lies solely with you and your sister," Kendall counters.
"Your sister is not without her flaws either," Lucas responds.
"I never claimed she was perfect, but she is certainly superior to yours," Kendall asserts.
"Please refrain from making comparisons between us," Katie requests.
"Yes, I support her in that. Comparisons should be avoided," Audrey adds.
Mr. Mark expresses his belief in the potential for improvement among the children, stating, "I am confident that we can achieve a breakthrough in fostering a harmonious environment. I am genuinely making an effort here. I kindly ask that you also contribute to this endeavor."
"That seems unlikely," Lucas retorts, his arms crossed and a frown on his face.
"Not going to happen," Kendall adds, shaking his head in disapproval.
With a sigh, Mr. Mark proposes, "How about we all enjoy a calm and relaxing breakfast together, free from confrontation? This is essential for both my peace of mind and yours. Let's avoid any further disputes."
The group assembles around the table, awaiting the meal that Mr. Mark and Ms. Knight are preparing.
"I wonder if there will be any reptiles at the zoo we are visiting," Carlos muses.
"Zoos typically feature reptile houses that showcase various species, including lizards, snakes, turtles, and tortoises," Logan responds.
"I understand that, but what if the turtles are actually ninjas who combat villains?" Carlos suggests.
"Are you referring to the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles?" Lucas inquires.
"Yes, Donatello is my favorite. Look, I have him right here," Carlos replies, displaying his toy.
"So you possess a TMNT doll," Lucas remarks.
Carlos's expression darkens, anger simmering beneath the surface.
"Oh no, you shouldn't have said that," Logan interjects, facepalming in realization.
"Said what?" Lucas asks, perplexed by Carlos's reaction.
"You shouldn't have referred to his TMNT figure as a doll. He despises that term," Logan clarifies.
James and Kendall nod vigorously in agreement.
"It is a doll," Lucas insists.
"No, Barbie and Ken are dolls! Donatello is an action figure! Action figures are for boys, while dolls are for girls," Carlos retorts.
"At 16, why do you still possess a toy from a series primarily enjoyed by children aged 8?" Lucas inquires.
"Because I take pride in my admiration for crime-fighting teenage turtles!" Carlos responds.
"What makes Donatello your favorite character?" Audrey asks, attempting to diffuse the situation.
"He reminds me of Logan," Carlos replies.
"Is that so?" Logan responds, taken aback.
"You were unaware of that?" Lucas questions.
"No, he has never mentioned it to me," Logan states. "Carlos, in what way do I resemble Donatello?"
"You and Donatello share a high level of intelligence and technical skills. He invents gadgets to assist with their missions, while you developed BuddyBot. You occasionally wear purple like him, although he dons it consistently. A version of him also wears glasses, while you only wear sunglasses when necessary," Carlos explains.
"Thanks, Carlos. I never really considered how similar I might be to a cartoon teenage turtle," Logan admits.
"It's true that you don't indulge in the TMNT series as much as I do, Logie. But that's alright, I've always thought of you as my own personal turtle. So, I'll do the comparing for you," Carlos playfully remarks.
Logan responds with an apologetic tone, "I did try to get into it, but it just didn't capture my interest. Sorry, buddy."
"Don't worry, it doesn't bother me one bit," Carlos reassures him.
Lucas interjects with a snide comment, "It's pretty weird that you're still into Ninja Turtles, dude."
Defending his love for the series, Carlos stands his ground, "I couldn't care less about what you think. Plenty of adults still enjoy the show, and they were once kids too. So, quit judging me!"
From the kitchen comes the soothing voice of Mr. Mark, trying to diffuse the tension, "I noticed there was a lack of laughter in here. How about some breakfast to lighten the mood?"
The tantalizing smell of food instantly lifts Carlos' spirits, bringing a smile to his face.
Audrey breathes a sigh of relief, "Looks like breakfast did the trick, he seems much happier now."
Logan nods in agreement, "Food always puts him in a good mood. Let's just hope Lucas doesn't ruin it again."
Following a delightful breakfast, the household prepares for an outing to the zoo, each person taking the time to shower and dress elegantly.
Lucas observes as Steven gently secures Tyson's service dog vest onto him and approaches them with curiosity.
"Will you be upset if you don't take Tyson with you?" he inquires.
Steven glances up, momentarily perplexed, shifting his gaze between Andy and Lucas.
"No, but he's my loyal companion," he replies.
"Then why not leave the mutt behind? If you don't require his presence, there's no need to bring him along," Lucas retorts.
Fury ignites within Steven at the disparaging term used for his beloved dog, prompting him to storm out into the backyard in a fit of rage.
"Goodness, Lucas, what have you done this time? Are you trying to earn disdain from everyone?" Audrey questions, her tone laced with concern.
"I did nothing wrong. I merely posed a few questions and suggested he leave that scruffy creature here," Lucas defends himself.
"Listen closely. Tyson is the cornerstone of Steven's emotional stability. While he can manage without Tyson, he chooses to have him by his side to maintain his calm. You have no authority to insist my brother leave his service dog behind. Your jealousy is the real issue here," Andy asserts firmly.
"I am not envious!" Lucas asserts.
"Go and apologize to Steven for your rude behavior!" Andy insists.
"You cannot compel me!" Lucas retorts, defiantly folding his arms.
"What are you, five years old? Just do it! Immediately!" Andy exclaims.
"He will manage without an apology," Lucas replies.
With a frustrated groan, Andy exclaims, "You are more obstinate than a mule!"
"Does he genuinely need to apologize?" Mr. Mark inquires.
"Yes, sir, he does. If he fails to do so, I will not be content for the remainder of the day, nor will Steven," Andy responds.
"Lucas, have you engaged in behavior that warrants an apology?" Mr. Mark asks.
"No, father, I have not. Andy is merely being overly dramatic, as he has been throughout the weekend," Lucas states.
"I am being overly dramatic? Seriously? You were on the verge of hitting Katie yesterday! Wasn't that an instance of you being overly dramatic? I am not the issue here!" Andy retorts.
"Perhaps I will hit you instead!" Lucas threatens.
"Go ahead and attempt it; I will prevent you!" Andy challenges.
"No," Logan interjects, gently pulling Andy away.
"Just apologize to Steven, Lucas. We are wasting time here when we could be enjoying all the amazing animals at the zoo," Audrey urges.
"Very well! I will go and apologize!" Lucas declares as he strides toward the backyard. "Steven, I apologize. Is that satisfactory for you now?"
Steven merely shakes his head in response.
"That's unfortunate! I wish to visit the zoo! I am aware that you desire to go as well, so please accept my apology!" Lucas insists.
Once more, Steven shakes his head.
"You cannot compel him to accept your apology, Lucas. You are making him feel uneasy," Logan interjects as he approaches them.
"Lucas, are you being overly aggressive?" Mr. Mark inquires.
"No, I am not. Steven refuses to accept my apology," Lucas replies.
"It lacked sincerity," Logan asserts.
"That is not true!" Lucas retorts loudly.
"Indeed, it was not," Logan responds calmly, though clearly frustrated.
"Lucas, if you believe it was sincere, then I will take your word for it. Well done," Mr. Mark states.
"What?!" Logan exclaims in disbelief.
Steven shares a similar reaction, though he remains silent.
Lucas wears a self-satisfied grin, relishing his father's support as they all head back into the house.
"We overheard everything. Mr. Mark has once again failed to discipline Lucas," Kendall sighs.
"Lucas pretended to be innocent in front of Mr. Mark to avoid any consequences," Logan remarks, visibly annoyed.
Upon their arrival at BigBearZoo, the group traverses the parking lot en route to the zoo's entrance. During this journey, Andy unexpectedly falls onto the gravel surface, resulting in minor abrasions to his knees.
"Ow!" he exclaims.
"What occurred?" Ms. Knight inquires as she assists him in standing.
"Lucas tripped—" Andy begins to explain but is interrupted by Lucas, who places a hand over his mouth.
"This kid is such a chatterbox. He was about to say that I tripped over my shoelace and collided with him, but he was confused and would have provided you with inaccurate information," Lucas asserts.
"Um, alright…" Ms. Knight responds.
"Mom, he's lying. He tripped Andy. I witnessed it," Katie interjects.
"If you saw me do it, why didn't you mention it at the time? You have no evidence. Ha!" Lucas retorts.
"Audrey pulled my hair to prevent me from exposing you!" Katie counters.
"I did no such thing. I was standing over here next to Carmen," Audrey claims.
"Camille. It's Camille," Camille corrects her.
"Who is?" Audrey asks, perplexed.
"Me! The person you said you were standing next to!" Camille replies, visibly irritated.
"I'm fairly certain you told me your name was Carmen," Audrey insists.
"I did not. Clearly, I am more aware of my name than you are," Camille responds.
"Enough. Andy is simply a clumsy child. Lucas, you inadvertently bumped into him, correct? Accidents occur. Let's move on; we are nearly at the entrance," Mr. Mark states.
"Mom, he did it again. He's just ignoring the inappropriate behavior of Lucas and Audrey," Kendall complains. "This is going to ruin our entire day."
"It's fine, Kendall. They are behaving adequately. You are merely projecting your feelings onto them because you are not an innocent child," Mr. Mark replies.
"I have been making a concerted effort all weekend to get along with you and your manipulative children, but I have reached my limit with your insults towards me and my friends, as well as your dismissal of our feelings. I have done nothing wrong in this situation," Kendall asserts.
"Enough! Let's not cause a scene," Mr. Mark interjects.
"Mom, can you please handle this? He's being completely unfair and unreasonable," Kendall implores.
"Mark, this is not how we should be starting our day. You need to focus on disciplining your own children instead of mine. Remember, you said you would work on that," Ms. Knight reminds.
"Can we save this conversation for later and just enjoy our time at the zoo?" Mr. Mark suggests.
"Fine, but I'm still upset about how you spoke to Kendall. Please apologize so we can all have a good day," Ms. Knight insists.
"I'm sorry, Kendall," Mr. Mark reluctantly says.
Kendall shrugs it off, muttering, "Sure, whatever," before walking away.
After purchasing tickets, the family gathers around a map to decide which animal exhibit to visit first.
"What animals are you excited to see, kids?" Ms. Knight inquires.
"In a captivating nature documentary, Steven and I discovered the fascinating world of bears. Although we have yet to encounter one in person, the desire lingers. 'Is there anyone else eager to witness these magnificent creatures first?' Andy inquires.
'I have no objections,' Jo replies with a hint of enthusiasm.
'Absolutely, let's embark on this adventure,' Camille chimes in.
The majority, save for Lucas and Audrey, express their agreement with the plan.
'We have no interest in seeing those silly bears,' Lucas retorts dismissively.
'What purpose do they serve, anyway?' Audrey adds, her tone skeptical.
'Are you aware that a bear graces the California state flag? It's right there on the flagpole behind you,' Logan points out.
'We're aware of the flag! But what significance does a bear hold in the grand scheme of things?' Lucas counters.
'Consider Yogi Bear, Smokey Bear, and even teddy bears. The teddy bear was born from Theodore Roosevelt's decision not to shoot a bear during a hunting expedition, leading to its creation in his honor,' Carlos shares, his voice filled with pride. 'I picked that up in social studies.'
'Bravo, Carlos! I commend you for applying your social studies knowledge so well,' Logan praises.
'Thank you, Logie. I found that tidbit intriguing enough to remember and share,' Carlos responds, a smile creeping back.
Audrey lets out an exaggerated sigh, rolling her eyes. 'Blah, blah, blah. Who cares? That fact isn't particularly riveting,' she scoffs.
'I thought it was fascinating. Clearly, I was mistaken,' Carlos replies, his disappointment evident.
'Don't fret, Carlos. I found it delightful,' Jo reassures him, her warmth evident.
'Me too,' Camille adds, echoing Jo's sentiment."
"We shall commence our adventure with the bears. A splendid suggestion, Andy. Carlos, my dear, I truly appreciated the delightful tidbit you shared, despite the fact that some individuals chose not to submit their applications for it." Ms. Knight remarks, casting a disapproving glance at Lucas and Audrey.
They proceed to the bear exhibit.
Steven observes the trio of black bears meandering about and excitedly points them out. "Ursus americanus."
"Precisely, Stevie. Well done." Andy responds with approval.
"What was that? Speaking in Latin?" Lucas chuckles mockingly.
"Indeed, he was." Andy replies.
"I was merely jesting. He genuinely was?" Lucas exclaims, taken aback.
"Absolutely, did you not realize that Latin is a legitimate language?" Andy inquires.
"Of course, I did. I was simply testing your knowledge." Lucas retorts.
"That was quite convincing." Logan interjects with a hint of sarcasm.
"The sign reads: Hollybeary – A female black bear who graced us with her presence in 2005. She was left at the doorstep of a rehabilitator when she was merely 3 or 4 months old. She suffered from a severe skin condition that took months to heal, but she is now a picture of health and beauty. Hollybeary was bottle-fed for several months post-arrival and has since become reliant on humans for her survival.
Eleanor – Displaced by the Riverside Fire, she was estimated to be around 2 years old by local wildlife officials. She underwent rehabilitation through one of the zoo's conservation partners and now enjoys a permanent residence here.
Pooh – He joined our zoo in 2012 after encountering multiple conflicts with humans in the wild, the last of which involved a rather audacious break-in at a honey farm, resulting in significant damages." Katie elaborates.
"Bears are omnivores, which means they consume both plants and meat," Steven explains.
"Exactly, Stevie! You're really impressing us with your animal facts today," Andy replies.
"Big deal. That information is right there on the sign. He probably just read it. It's not that impressive if you're just repeating what you see instead of recalling it from memory," Lucas chimes in.
With a frustrated sigh, Andy responds, "Are you really going to be this negative all day? If so, you can keep that negativity to yourself. Nobody wants to hear it. Remember that golden rule we all learn in kindergarten? If you can't say something nice, don't say anything at all."
Lucas rolls his eyes and retorts, "I know that stupid rule. I have my own opinions, and it's called freedom of speech. Ever heard of it?"
Andy sighs in exasperation. "Honestly, you're more draining than Hannah. At least she knows when to stop. You just keep rambling on and on." He then turns to Steven, saying, "Come on, Stevie, we can see all three angles from over there," as he walks away with his brother.
Steven was disheartened to discover that Lucas did not appreciate his expertise on bears.
"Why doesn't he see how amazing I am?" Steven signed to Andy.
"He's just missing out on the gem that is you," Andy signed back. "Don't let it get to you. He's just being a jerk."
Lucas couldn't help but wonder if they were discussing him in sign language.
Audrey shrugged. "I have no clue what they're saying. Don't worry about it."
Katie made sure to point out Lucas's rudeness to Mr. Mark.
Mr. Mark, however, failed to see any issue in Lucas's behavior.
Katie let out a frustrated sigh. "I must be blind. How does my mom find you attractive? You're completely oblivious!"
Moving on to the next animal exhibit chosen by Jo and Camille, they all headed towards the raccoon enclosure.
"Raccoons are adorable," Katie remarked. "They're like little masked bandits, but they have a sweet innocence to them. I just love them."
Tyler nodded in agreement. "I think they're pretty cool too."
Katie announced, "I will read the sign to everyone, which provides comprehensive information about the raccoons featured in this exhibit." She continued, "Vincent and Tosh arrived in 2011, although they are not related. Vincent suffered an attack from a dog during his early years. He was kept in captivity for several weeks, and by the time he came to us, he had already formed strong attachments to humans. Similarly, Tosh was raised from a young age. Both Tosh and Vincent serve as animal ambassadors and frequently participate in educational programs. The other raccoons in the exhibit can be observed playing daily, displaying a great deal of energy. To keep them engaged, they are often provided with behavioral enrichment, as they are highly intelligent creatures.
Karen joined the zoo in 2017 after being kept as an illegal pet.
Bowie was brought to us in 2021; he is a blonde raccoon, a rare coloration that hinders his survival in the wild."
"These raccoons have endured quite a lot," Camille remarked. "It's shocking that someone kept one as an illegal pet. While they are adorable, they should not be kept as pets since they are wild animals. Isn't it true that they can transmit rabies, which can severely affect humans?"
"Indeed, that is a fact," Logan replied. "If a raccoon is found in the wild with rabies, it must be euthanized immediately."
"Steven and I watched a segment on Animal Planet about a rabid raccoon that was causing chaos in a neighborhood, targeting children and pets. Fortunately, no one was bitten because residents were advised to stay indoors. Wildlife officers arrived and shot it, which was heard off-camera. The sound frightened Steven, and he had trouble sleeping that night. He felt very sad that the raccoon was too ill to survive," Andy recounted.
"When did you see that?" Logan inquired.
"Last week," Andy responded.
"He's alright now, isn't he?" James asked.
"Yes, he is fine," Andy confirmed. "Seeing these raccoons in their enclosure brings him joy, knowing they are safe here."
The group proceeds to the exhibit showcasing the majestic gray wolves. As the wolves begin to howl, Tyson instinctively joins in, his voice echoing their wild call.
"Isn't that just delightful? Does Tyson believe he's part of the wolf pack here?" Carlos remarks with a chuckle.
"It certainly seems that way. He howled right along with them, as if it were second nature. You're quite the character, Tyson," James replies, amused.
"By the way, those gray wolves are also known as timber wolves," Logan interjects. "Let me take a moment to read the informative sign displayed here. Bodhi: A confiscated pet who endured severe neglect, suffering from extreme mange and malnutrition.
Ivar, Loki, and Nymeria – Rescued from the illegal pet trade in 2023."
"They truly are beautiful yet misunderstood beings. The infamous big bad wolf from the tale of the three little pigs. The same villain in Little Red Riding Hood. Such nursery rhymes paint wolves as malevolent creatures, but in reality, they deserve our respect and admiration," Katie reflects thoughtfully.
"Beautifully articulated, Katie," Logan agrees.
After exploring the last of the animal exhibits, the group eagerly seeks out the gift shop. The older kids gravitate towards delicate keychains and jewelry, while Andy, Katie, Steven, and Tyler make a beeline for the stuffed animals. Amid a display of beanie babies, they each pick out their favorite: a unicorn for Katie, a frog for Tyler, a wolf for Steven, and a fox for Andy. With their new plush companions in tow, they hop back into the car and set off in search of a restaurant, preferably one with outdoor seating for Tyson.
As they pull into the parking lot of a spot called Teddy Bear Restaurant, Mr. Mark points out, "This place has outdoor seating."
"I love the name," exclaims Andy, turning to Steven for validation.
Steven chuckles and nods in agreement. The group excitedly exits the car and selects a table on the outdoor patio.
A youthful waiter, embodying the spirit of hospitality, approaches the table with an air of elegance, presenting the menus with a flourish. "Good afternoon," he greets warmly, his smile radiating charm. "I am Elijah, and it will be my pleasure to serve you today. May I begin by offering you some delightful beverages? And might I inquire if the splendid German shepherd resting beneath the table requires a refreshing bowl of water?"
"That decision rests with his owner," Mr. Mark replies. "I would like to start with a lemonade, please."
"I shall have the same," Ms. Knight adds gracefully.
Logan and Camille opt for iced coffee, while James and Carlos choose orange juice. Kendall and Jo prefer water, Lucas and Audrey select sodas, and Steven, Andy, Katie, and Tyler indulge in apple juice. Steven also kindly requests a chilled bowl of water for Tyson.
"Wonderful selections all around. I shall return shortly with your drinks," Elijah assures them, making his way into the restaurant's kitchen.
Carlos pointed out, "If you look at the bottom of the menus, you'll find references to riddles and brain teasers." He then added, "Logan, you have a penchant for that sort of thing. This should be enjoyable for you."
Logan responded, "I might give it a shot, although it's likely to be too simple for my taste. I prefer a challenge rather than something I can solve in mere seconds." He proceeded to read aloud, "1. Where do fish store their money? 2. What results from combining a vehicle with a domestic animal? 3. The more you take, the more you leave behind. What could that be? 4. Which three numbers yield the same result when summed and multiplied? 5. You discard the exterior and cook the interior, then consume the exterior while discarding the interior. What are you eating? 6. A man describes his daughters, stating that they are all blondes except for two, all brunettes except for two, and all redheads except for two. How many daughters does he have?"
Lucas inquired, "Do you really think you can solve all of that?"
Logan replied, "Absolutely. What about you?"
Lucas responded, "That's not really my area of interest. I'm not into that sort of thing."
Logan remarked, "That just means more enjoyment for me."
Andy interjected, "Steven figured out the answer to number 6." He continued, "There are three daughters: one blonde, one redhead, and one brunette."
Logan checked the answer key and confirmed, "That's correct. Well done, Steven. And you too, Andy. How did he manage to solve it?"
Andy shrugged and smiled, "I'm not sure. I struggled with it, and he solved it for me. Isn't he just the most incredible kid ever?"
Waiter Elijah gracefully reappears, drinks in hand. "Are you all prepared to place your orders, or do you require a moment longer?" he inquires with a polished demeanor.
"We're ready," Mr. Mark replies, promptly sharing his selection, followed by Ms. Knight.
"Splendid choices indeed," Waiter Elijah remarks, diligently jotting down their requests in a sleek notebook. "And for the young ones? Let's begin with you," he says, directing his warm gaze towards Steven.
Just as Steven is about to express his desire, Lucas interjects.
"He's unable to speak. He suffers from a condition that hinders his ability to grasp even the simplest tasks, like communicating," he fabricates.
Both Steven and Andy stare at him in disbelief, taken aback by his falsehood.
"Um… very well. Does he require help with the menu, or is he simply not hungry?" Waiter Elijah asks, visibly perplexed.
With tears brimming in his eyes, Steven bolts towards the exit, with Andy hastily following in pursuit.
Mr. Mark, having just returned from the restroom, is met with the unfolding scene. "What transpired here?" he queries, bewildered.
"I'm not entirely certain, sir. I'll return shortly to finalize your orders," Waiter Elijah responds, retreating with a hint of concern.
"I'll clarify what occurred. Lucas utterly belittled Steven. Just as Elijah was about to take his order, Lucas rudely interrupted, claiming he has a condition that impedes his ability to communicate. Naturally, Elijah, caught off guard, accepted his words as truth due to the lack of any other explanation," Kendall asserts, casting a fierce glare at Lucas.
"Lucas, is that accurate?" Mr. Mark demands.
With a sly smirk directed at Kendall, Lucas responds, "Absolutely not," fabricating yet again.
"It is indeed the truth. We all witnessed it," Katie interjects. "How can you be so heartless towards Steven? He is not your adversary!"
"Enough of this. I'll go check on Steven and Andy," Mr. Mark declares, rising from his seat.
"No, you stay put. Let me handle it. Your son needs some discipline," Ms. Knight insists, striding off in search of Steven and Andy. She eventually finds them on a bench, with Steven still in tears and seeking comfort from Tyson, while Andy soothingly rubs his back.
"Ms. Knight, can we leave please? Steven's really upset. Lucas is just too much with his insensitivity towards Steven," Andy pleads. "He's driving me crazy with his lack of consideration for others."
"Don't worry, my dear. I'll have a word with Mr. Mark," Ms. Knight reassures.
Andy and Steven storm back to the table, their eyes locked onto Lucas with a fierce intensity.
"Gentlemen, I've had a conversation with Lucas and reached a conclusion regarding the matter at hand. I've decided that he isn't to blame; it was merely an oversight," Mr. Mark announces.
"That's completely unjust, sir! You were in the restroom when Lucas was rude to Steven. We explained everything to you as soon as you returned, and yet you still choose to side with him?!" Andy exclaims, exasperation evident in his voice. "This restaurant is no longer enjoyable."
"Pardon me, I just returned. I couldn't help but catch wind of your unresolved issue, and I'd like to assist. Earlier, when everyone was placing their drink orders, Steven clearly expressed his choice. So I'm puzzled as to why I was informed that he can't communicate and has a brain condition that hinders his understanding. He clearly recognized the insult from Lucas. I felt terrible for him," Waiter Elijah interjects. "Just to clarify, he has that service dog for a reason, right?"
"Yes, Steven is my brother who has autism. Tyson is his emotional support dog," Andy replies.
"Oh, I understand now. Just to be clear, autism is not a disease. It's a mental disability, or more accurately, a neurological condition that influences brain function," Waiter Elijah explains. "I'm quite familiar with it. My best friend, Harry, is high-functioning autistic and truly one of the most remarkable individuals I know. I should have recognized that Steven is autistic sooner, and I apologize for not doing so. I noticed he was quiet, but I mistakenly thought he was just shy."
"It's alright. It's not your fault for not realizing he's autistic right away. He is indeed sensitive and reserved, but we both think it's fantastic that you have a friend with high-functioning autism and that you're supportive of the special needs community, unlike SOME people," Andy says, shooting a furious glance at Lucas, who merely rolls his eyes in response.
"I need to discuss this with my manager. Are you all planning to stay for dinner, or are you heading out?" Waiter Elijah inquired.
"I'm really hungry. We're definitely staying," Mr. Mark replied.
"Mark, you can't speak for everyone. Consider the kids; many of them are quite upset with Lucas," Ms. Knight interjected.
"It's alright, Mom. We're all still hungry, and Elijah has been such a wonderful and attentive waiter. He deserves a generous tip for his excellent service," Kendall chimed in.
"Wow, thank you, but you really don't need to go out of your way for a tip. I'm just doing my job. It's all good," Waiter Elijah responded modestly.
"No, young man, your service and patience have been exceptional. Are you a college student?" Mr. Mark asked.
"Yes, sir. I'm studying to become a veterinarian. That's why I got so excited when I saw the dog with you. I'm working this job to help cover my tuition. Helping animals has been my dream since elementary school," Waiter Elijah explained.
"I can see the passion in your eyes when you talk about animals. College can be expensive, but I'd like to assist you with that," Mr. Mark offered.
"Are you really sure, sir?" Waiter Elijah asked, surprised.
"Absolutely, I'm going to give you a very generous tip," Mr. Mark assured him.
"Thank you so much, sir. Your kindness is truly appreciated," Waiter Elijah said, beaming with joy.
Once the orders were placed, Waiter Elijah made his way to the kitchen, returning a quarter of an hour later. "My manager has decided to cover your meals for the evening. I filled him in on everything, including your generous tip offer. I wasn't sure if he'd be okay with such a large tip, but he's a fair and reasonable man, and I truly respect that."
"Are you certain we don't need to pay anything? Really, sweetheart?" Ms. Knight inquired.
"Absolutely, ma'am. And here are your meals," Waiter Elijah replied, setting the dishes down on the table.
After everyone finished their meals, they eagerly awaited Mr. Mark to honor his promise and present Elijah with the substantial tip.
"Here you go, young man," he said, handing over a check.
Elijah glanced at it, his eyes widening in disbelief. "Sir, am I seeing this correctly? You wrote 100,000 on this check."
"That's right. I hope this makes a significant difference for your college tuition," Mr. Mark replied.
"This will greatly alleviate my financial worries and help me focus on my studies," Waiter Elijah said gratefully. "Thank you so much."
"You're very welcome," Mr. Mark responded with a smile.
Upon their return to the lake house, fatigue hangs heavily in the air after a long day.
"Mark, I'm truly disappointed in you. You promised to handle Lucas and Audrey with more care. What transpired at the restaurant was entirely Lucas' fault. Steven deserves an apology from him," Ms. Knight asserts.
"I don't see the issue. Lucas simply made a mistake," Mr. Mark replies.
"He's been repeating those mistakes all weekend," Ms. Knight counters. "And your harsh treatment of my children is unacceptable. If you want them to like you, you need to respect their feelings!"
With a sigh, Mr. Mark responds, "I'm sorry, Jennifer. How can I fix this?"
"Engage with the kids on their level. Participate in their interests. Show genuine curiosity about what they enjoy," Ms. Knight suggests.
"Alright, I'll give that a try," Mr. Mark agrees.
After thirty minutes of silence in the living room, Mr. Mark strides in, attempting a cool swagger, but is met with bewildered and shocked expressions from everyone present. "Yo, yo, yo! What's up, my peeps? What's going down in here?"
Cue the imaginary record scratch to highlight the awkwardness.
"What the heck?" Kendall exclaims, taken aback.
"I see you, my dude. Just chilling and watching hockey, which is your Roman Empire," Mr. Mark says.
"Um... I'm really confused right now," James murmurs to Carlos.
"Same here," Carlos whispers back.
"Guys, I'm sure he's just trying to make us laugh," Logan interjects.
"Not exactly my intention, bro. But I must say, you and Camille make a fantastic ship," Mr. Mark adds.
"Did he really just call you bro? And refer to us as a ship?" Camille asks, her brow furrowed in confusion.
"Yeah," Logan replies, a hint of amusement in his voice.
"What's going on? I'm lost here," Andy chimes in, looking bewildered.
"Earlier at the restaurant, I was totally messing with your vibe, Andy and Steven. I really did go off on you, didn't I?" Mr. Mark admits.
"Uh…" Andy stammers, unsure of how to react.
"I heard Lucas was throwing shade, and I was like, no cap," Mr. Mark continues, shrugging.
"Oh my gosh. Someone needs to stop him. This is so embarrassing," Lucas groans, running his hands through his hair, clearly unsettled by his father's attempt to sound like a teenager.
"Dad, what's going on? Why are you talking to us like this?" Audrey questions, her eyes wide.
"I'm just trying to vibe with you cool kids. I said kids with a z," Mr. Mark explains, grinning.
"Please stop. You're making us all uncomfortable. Do you even know what you're saying when you use that slang?" Audrey retorts.
"Okay, I'm sorry. I thought it would be a fun way to connect. Ms. Knight suggested it," Mr. Mark defends himself.
"Uh uh, don't put this on my mom. She definitely didn't mean for you to terrify us with every piece of slang you could find. I think you took her advice the wrong way," Kendall interjects.
"He absolutely did," Ms. Knight says as she walks into the room.
"I'm really sorry. I just don't know how to relate to teenagers. I've been trying so hard with Lucas and Audrey," Mr. Mark admits, looking sheepish.
"It's fine, Dad, but please, never use teenage slang again. That was horrifying," Lucas says, shaking his head.
"Alright, I won't push it. Aren't you kids feeling a bit worn out yet? We head back to Los Angeles tomorrow," Mr. Mark remarks.
"Nah, we'll catch our breath soon enough. We're planning to binge-watch some movies," Kendall replies.
"Oh, I get it. So Kendall, Jo, Camille, and Logan, are you all set for a little Netflix and chill?" Mr. Mark teases.
Kendall and James simultaneously spray their drinks in disbelief, while Logan and Carlos look utterly horrified.
"Oh my goodness! Did you really just say that?" Katie exclaims.
"Yikes," Tyler grimaces.
"What on earth?" Andy questions.
Lucas and Audrey bury their faces in their hands, sighing in embarrassment over their dad's comment.
Puzzled by their reactions, Mr. Mark asks, "What? What's wrong with what I just said?"
"It's not what you said, it's how you think you said it," Kendall explains.
"What?" Mr. Mark responds, still bewildered.
"Netflix and chill doesn't just mean relaxing and watching a movie. It implies watching a movie and engaging in adult activities. You know, in the nude," Katie clarifies.
"See? She shouldn't even know that at her age, but she does. That's a bit concerning," Ms. Knight adds.
"Remember, it's crucial to get enough rest tonight. Tomorrow's early start requires your full attention to time management," Mr. Mark advises.
"How can we be sure Lucas or Audrey won't stir up trouble?" inquires Ms. Knight.
"We'll behave. Don't you worry, lady," Audrey nonchalantly replies, raising eyebrows.
Taken aback by the disrespect, Ms. Knight sternly responds, "Excuse me?"
"Sorry, ma'am. I meant we'll handle ourselves properly," Audrey quickly corrects herself, noticing Ms. Knight's stern expression.
"That's more like it. Remember to watch your tone around me. I may not be your mother, but I still demand respect. Clear?" Ms. Knight asserts.
"Yes, ma'am, I apologize," Audrey swiftly acknowledges.
