"Andy, I appreciate your concern for your brother, but it's essential for both of you to remain here for the medical reasons I've outlined," the doctor explains. "A pediatric mental health specialist can come in to speak with him."
"Absolutely not! My brother doesn't need a mental health assessment! He's not insane! And trust me, he wouldn't even consider talking to someone if you send them in here. Do you understand how challenging it is for him to navigate life with autism? He faces it every single day, and I'm in awe of his strength. He's a warrior in the special needs community, like a stormtrooper fighting against the dark side. The force is undeniably strong within him," Andy responds passionately.
"Oh, so you both enjoy Star Wars? I do too, though I lean more towards Star Trek," the doctor replies. "I apologize if I upset you with the suggestion about mental health. My goal is to ensure Steven feels as comfortable as possible during his stay, and talking to someone could really benefit him. Seeking help from a mental health professional doesn't mean he's crazy. We both know he isn't."
With a sigh, Andy continues, "I'm sorry for snapping at you. I'm just fiercely protective of Steven. It's my duty. I aspire to be an advocate for autism when I grow up, and the best way to start is by standing up for Steven. One day, we'll find a way to bridge the gap between neurodivergent and neurotypical communities. We'll dismantle the stigmas and stereotypes. Individuals with special needs deserve to be treated with the same respect as anyone else, not merely defined by their diagnosis."
"Well articulated, Andy. I completely agree with you," the doctor responds.
Steven gestures to Andy, expressing his hunger. "I'm feeling hungry, Andy. How about you?"
"Absolutely, Steven! I'm just as hungry," Andy replies with a smile, signing back.
The doctor observes and comments, "I must admit, I'm not an expert in American Sign Language, but your skills are quite impressive."
"I learned it on my own when I was around four or five, and then I taught it to Steven. It's our unique way of connecting, especially when he prefers not to speak. He also uses it when he feels overwhelmed or stressed. Is there anything we can do to help him feel more at ease?" Andy inquires.
"Indeed, I have a few ideas. First, I'll have a nurse bring some food for you two," the doctor responds before stepping out of the room.
A nurse wheels in two trays laden with pizza, vibrant strawberry jello, fresh grapes, and refreshing apple juice for Andy and Steven. "Here you go, boys. Dig in!" she cheerfully announces, adjusting the wheeled tables beside their beds so they can easily reach their meals.
Steven picks up a grape and playfully offers it to Katie.
"Want to share? You're so kind, Steven. Thank you!" Katie replies, taking the grape and savoring it in one swift motion.
"Just a heads up, visiting hours are nearly up. We'll need to head out in about ten minutes," Ms. Knight informs them.
"Mom, we still haven't had a chance to visit the gift shop. Can we go before we leave, please?" Kendall pleads.
"Alright, but make it snappy," Ms. Knight concedes.
"Thanks, Mom!" Kendall exclaims, hurrying off with the others.
In the gift shop…
"What should we get that Andy and Steven will both enjoy?" Camille inquires. "What are they into?"
"They have a wide range of interests. Just the usual things boys their age are into," Logan replies. "Video games, Legos, and action figures. Unfortunately, it looks like those aren't available here, so we'll need to think outside the box. I believe our best option is a cuddly stuffed toy for them."
After selecting the right items, the group heads back to Andy and Steven's hospital room.
"We've got your gifts! We hope you like them," Carlos announces, placing the bags on their beds.
Steven eagerly pulls out the items and beams. "An Elmo pillow!" He then examines the other gift. "This stuffed gator smells nice."
"It smells nice? What does that mean?" Andy asks, puzzled.
"You both have the same gift, just different animals," Logan explains.
He opens his bag to reveal a regular soft stuffed monkey and a dog that has a pleasant scent. "What are these stuffed toys that smell so good called?" Andy asks, intrigued.
"They're aromatherapy stuffed animals. The lavender scent is meant to help you both unwind," Logan clarifies.
"Thanks, Logan," Andy replies gratefully.
"Thank you!" Steven adds enthusiastically.
The doctor reenters the room. "Great to see you've eaten and received some gifts. I notice the stuffed dog and alligator are aromatherapy toys. They are ideal for my plan to help you unwind. Aromatherapy has been shown to significantly reduce stress and anxiety. Next, I will dim the lights, and you can listen to some calming music."
"Sounds good," Andy replies.
"It's time for us to head home, children," Ms. Knight states as she picks up her purse and car keys.
"Do we really have to go?" Katie inquires.
"Yes, you have school in the morning," Ms. Knight responds.
"That's even more reason to stay," Katie retorts.
With a sigh, Kendall interjects, "Come on, Katie. Don't start this."
"Start what? You know I don't like school," Katie replies. "And you're upset that I'm being dramatic? Take a look in the mirror." She smirks, knowing she's getting under his skin.
Kendall groans in frustration. "Logan, when we get home, remind me to take a lot of aspirin because she's really testing my patience," he says.
"She'll keep pushing your buttons as long as you react to her. Just ignore her," Logan advises.
"That's easy for you to say; she actually listens to you," Kendall replies as they walk out together.
Inside Ms. Knight's car, the atmosphere buzzes with tension.
"No way, Carlos, I'm not doing it," Logan declares firmly.
"Come on, Logan! Just imagine how awesome it would be!" Carlos pleads, his eyes sparkling with excitement.
"Enough already, Carlos. I just want to listen to my Phoebe Nachee podcast," Logan replies with a weary sigh, scrolling through his phone.
"What's going on, Logan? Why are you so against him?" Camille inquires, her curiosity piqued.
"He wants me to upgrade BuddyBot so it can transform him into…" Logan trails off, exhaling dramatically. "A monkey," he finishes, his tone dripping with reluctance.
"That sounds adorable and hilarious!" Camille exclaims. "What's the appeal of becoming a monkey?"
"Don't fuel his fire!" Logan groans, facepalming in exasperation.
"Chill out, Logan. I'm just curious," Camille reassures him.
"It's my favorite animal! I've always dreamed of swinging through the trees and munching on bananas all day," Carlos says, his voice bubbling with enthusiasm.
"That's quite the aspiration, Carlos," Camille chuckles, amused by his infectious energy.
"It's just a product of his wildly imaginative mind. It's completely unrealistic," Logan retorts, shaking his head.
Carlos slumps in his seat, visibly deflated.
"You didn't have to crush his spirit like that," Camille chides gently.
"He'll bounce back. It's impossible for him to become an animal. No machine can change someone's DNA or cellular structure. Humans can't turn into animals; that's just fantasy reserved for movies and cartoons," Logan explains matter-of-factly.
"Why do you have to be so cynical at times?" Camille inquires.
"Sometimes it's just how I cope. I really need to tune into my Phoebe Nachee podcast; it helps me unwind. Sorry if my dreary, cynical vibe has cast a shadow over things," Logan replies, slipping in his AirPods and hitting play on the podcast.
"Logan, I didn't mean to upset you. I truly apologize," Camille responds.
"Cut him some slack, Cami. His mind is all jumbled from what happened with Andy and Steven. It's weighing on him more than it is on the rest of us," Kendall interjects.
With a sigh, Camille concedes, "You're probably right, Kendall."
"It's on me, amiga. I tend to push his buttons, and I made a ridiculous request for something that's just not feasible. He deserves a medal for putting up with my chaotic personality all these years. He's right; there's no way to create a machine that can turn a human into an animal. I was foolish to even think it could happen," Carlos admits.
Ms. Knight glides into the Palm Woods parking lot, expertly maneuvering her car into a space before shutting off the engine and unlocking the doors. "Alright, everyone, it's time to hit the hay. That includes you too, Jo and Camille. I've already talked to your dads, and they're not upset about you being late."
"Thanks, Ms. Knight. My dad can be a real hardliner sometimes. Working for the CIA makes him a stickler for rules, and if I stray from his guidelines, he might just blow a gasket," Jo replies. "Sometimes, it feels like he treats me more like a team member than his daughter."
"I'm sure he has your best interests at heart, dear," Ms. Knight reassures her.
"Some days are easier than others, but I appreciate your support," Jo says as she steps out of the car.
"Carlos and Camille, I want to apologize for losing my temper earlier. I'm still reeling from the news about Andy and Steven being in the hospital," Logan admits. "I took my frustration out on you, and that was unfair."
"It's alright, Logan. Kendall filled us in. We know this is hitting you harder than the rest of us. We're all worried about them, but they're in good hands. With the care they're receiving, they'll bounce back in no time," Camille reassures him.
"I just can't believe those police officers acted so aggressively towards them. An 11-year-old and a 12-year-old posed no threat, yet they were treated like criminals, pepper-sprayed and tased. It's just not right. They didn't deserve that. I wish I could have done something to help them. It all happened so quickly," Logan expresses his frustration.
"Logan, you need to let it go. What happened to Andy and Steven is not your fault," Camille comforts him.
Carlos acknowledges, "I realize I can be a handful at times, Logan. I promise to dial it back and refrain from making any more outlandish requests of BuddyBot."
Logan responds warmly, "Carlos, your vibrant and spirited nature is what brings joy to my days. Your suggestion to have BuddyBot transform you into a monkey wasn't foolish; it was simply playful. While your exuberance can sometimes be a bit much, it's a delightful challenge I gladly embrace. I would never wish for you to alter who you are. Throughout our years of friendship, I've never asked you to change, nor will I ever. Your positivity and ability to see the silver lining in tough situations is truly inspiring, especially during our daily escapades with Kendall and James. When things go awry, your reminders to think of puppies, kittens, and rainbows always lift my spirits. Though our perspectives may differ, I cherish the bond we share as brothers and bandmates."
"Thank you, Logan. Hearing that from you means a lot," Carlos replies appreciatively.
As they arrive at the Palm Woods, Jo and Camille head to their respective apartments.
Meanwhile, Ms. Knight, Katie, and the boys enter Apartment 2J and head straight to bed.
