Hi, everybody! It didn't take me too long to write up another chapter for ya. But speaking of chapters, I did upload the first chapter of "Gondor's Grace" very recently. Feel free to take a look! Needless to say, I was so excited about publishing it that I danced all night long. I think it's going to be challenging, but it'll go well. I know I described quite a bit about the relationship between Anna and her father, and when I finish this story, I will finally bring that relationship to life in "Gondor's Grace." I do have some ideas. I just gotta figure out where to put them in the story.
But back to this one for now. With the anniversary of 9/11 coming up, I did include a little story of that here. Now, I have absolutely no memory of where I was when it happened or what even happened. I only learned that it was the day the Twin Towers fell. But then I really decided to research it when my grandma made a trip to the memorial in Pennsylvania. I watched videos like crazy on YouTube and I watched a few documentaries. Among that, I am teaching myself what happened through both my own characters and characters already created.
Finally, I decided to end this chapter on a positive note because, well, we need it. Diana and Lily are both going through a lot. Enjoy!
DISCLAIMER: I do not own anything related to "Meet the Robinsons," "TMNT," "Criminal Case," "Lord of the Rings: The Third Age," nor "Choices: High School Story," nor do I own Christina Grimmie's "Feeling Good." I only own Lilianna, Little Donnie, Mika, Diana, Wesley, Anna, and Antonio.
April 2, 2060 - Westport, Connecticut, USA
LILIANNA'S POV
"MOM! MOM!"
I shot myself awake at the sound of my son's cries.
"Donnie! Are you alright?"
"No."
"Come here."
I held my arms out as Little Donnie crawled onto my bed and snuggled against my body, his tears falling down into my black nightgown.
"What happened, Donatello?" I asked sweetly.
"I saw the Shredder," he cried. "He was in the bedroom while I was a sleep. I woke up and saw him hovering over me. Then, he stabbed me!"
He cried harder and I frowned. I started to regret telling my children about the Shredder. But all I could do was sooth him and I started to rock him.
"You're safe, Donatello. Shh."
"Mommy?" I heard Mika's little voice. "What's going on?"
"Your brother had a nightmare. Are you okay?"
"I couldn't sleep. And then I heard Donnie scream."
"Oh, dear. Would you like to come here?"
"Yes, please."
I patted the other side of the bed and Mika climbed up. I held both my children close as they both snuggled into me. After a while, we ended up sleeping together in my bed, and all of us did not feel alone that night.
WILBUR'S POV
"I'm so glad Lily's doing better," Karena spoke as we cuddled in the bedroom.
"Me too. I was getting worried."
I let out a sigh.
"It's not fair, you know. My grandpa and great-uncles dying was different. They lived nice, long lives. But James? He was only in his thirties. He still had a long ways to go. Why James of all people?"
"I don't know, Wilbur. I really don't know. But it's clear the Shredder was after the children, not just Lily."
"All because he found evidence that Lily had children inside the house. Honestly, I wouldn't blame Lily if she decided to pack up and move across town. One, there are a lots of memories that she and James shared in that house and he was murdered in his own home. And two, it's a logical move so the Shredder would have a harder time finding her."
"And it would save us, too," Karena replied. "Doesn't the Shredder know about us, too? We're in the clan."
My eyes widened as I had realized something.
"Diana was the one who found the evidence about Ashley misusing funds. It makes sense that the Shredder went after Lily because Lily was the one who put Ashley away."
"Where are you going with this, Wilbur?" Karena asked with a raised eyebrow.
"Ashley wanted to expel Diana right when she became Principal Isa, right? Ashley probably has a grudge now against Diana as well."
Her eyes widened as well.
"Let me call her."
DIANA'S POV
"Thank you for driving me home, Caleb."
"It's my pleasure," he replied with a smile. "But I'm sorry about the way the party ended."
"Me, too. Kara and Max just had to ruin it, didn't they?"
"Well, good on you for standing your ground. You're very brave."
I glanced at the side mirror and suddenly found a group of flying cars behind us.
"Caleb, I think we're being followed."
"What?"
He glanced up at his rear-view mirror and his eyes widened.
"At midnight? What the heck?"
"We need to lose them!"
"Hold on!"
Suddenly, my phone rang and I answered it.
"Hi, Mom!"
"Diana, thank heavens you answered! You're okay!"
"Yeah, for now!" I yelled. "We're being followed by a group of men wearing all black."
"Oh my gosh! Wilbur, Diana's being followed!"
"Mom, Caleb's with me and we're trying to lose them. But I have a feeling they're going to be persistent."
"Diana, it's Dad. Keep trying to lose them. I'm going to try to intercept them, but I'm going to call for help, too. I can't ask Lily to leave her children alone."
"Call Raphael! He has the most experience in police matters."
"I agree. I'll call you right back."
"Caleb, can you try to go into New York City?" I asked.
"Diana, it's going to be way past curfew-"
"It doesn't matter! These people are dangerous."
"Do you owe them money or something?"
"Or something. Go, Caleb!"
We sped our way out of Westport and drove southwest to New York City. Then, I received another call, this time, on my T-Phone.
"Hello?"
"Diana, it's Donatello. Your father called and told us what was happening. Raph and I are in a flying vehicle I invented to track our flying enemies. What is your location?"
"We're driving southwest on I-95 through Norwalk. We're going to try to lose them in New York City."
"The only way you're going to lose them is to camouflage. You need to blend in somewhere."
"That's why we're heading to the city. We can easily blend in with the skyscrapers."
"I'll try to intercept you. I got your location on my T-Phone. Be safe."
He hung up.
"Donatello says we need to blend in somewhere."
"With what?" Caleb asked. "The trees?"
"Wait! There must be traffic going in from all sides of New York City. Maybe we need to blend in there."
"Well, where do you suggest we head- wait, who just flew in behind us?"
"YOU WILL NOT GO ANY FURTHER!"
Caleb stopped the car and we both turned around to find a metal skirt.
"It's Aumanil!" I shouted with relief. "I wonder how she knew we needed her?"
"I guess she's our Jesus tonight," Caleb replied. "Let's get moving and have Aumanil deal with this."
We started to move again. Caleb looked forward while I looked back, Aumanil now in full view. Every single driver who had followed us shot bullets at her. She easily deflected them at first, but then I saw red smoke coming out of them. Suddenly, she fell!
"AUMANIL!" I screamed. "Caleb, we need to catch her!"
We dove down just fast enough for me to open the hatch and catch Aumanil in the back seat.
"Whew!" we exclaimed.
"We need to get Aumanil to the lair and quickly!" I shouted.
"On it! At least the Turtles trust me."
"Amen to that!"
"Looks like we're about to blend in now," Caleb spoke. "New York City, here we come!"
"Rin. Pyo. Toh. Sha."
"What?" Caleb asked. "What is she saying?"
"I don't know," I answered honestly as Aumanil spoke in her sleep. "It sounds like Japanese, but I can't make out what it means."
My T-Phone rang again.
"Hello?"
"Diana, it's Donatello again. Your camouflage is working excellently! We're intercepting your stalkers now."
"Good. Aumanil tried and she fell."
"WHAT?! Please tell me she's with you!"
"Yes, she's with us. We caught her just in time."
"Whew!"
"She seems to be chanting something in her sleep," I explained. "But I can't make out what she's saying."
"It must be the healing mantras. Aumanil is a gifted healer. Take her to my lab."
"You got it."
We made a beeline to the lair using Donatello's secret entrance. I called my mother and told her I was safe. She also revealed she was at Lily's taking care of her children while Lily tried to intercept us and stop the people following me. Shortly after Caleb and I took Lily to the lab, Donatello and Raph returned.
"Those stalkers were the Vizioso gang," Raph revealed. "Every single member. It seems they were paid to take you down, Diana."
"But why would someone want me?" I asked. "I'm just a high school student."
"I don't know," Donatello replied.
"Because Diana was the one who found the evidence on Ashley," Lily weakly chimed in. "I got a quick glimpse of their minds before they shot me down. Their weapons were filled with anti-mutant gas."
Caleb's eyes widened and he slowly turned towards her.
"Lily?! You're Aumanil?"
She simply smiled.
"Lily, I'd better take a look at you," Donatello said.
Caleb and I followed Lily into the lab, and the purple-clad turtle did a thorough examination on her.
"Well, you were very lucky. Everything seems to be normal. But I'm going to do one more test, and it's related to what I found in your blood this past Monday."
"Wait, there actually was something wrong with me?" Lily asked with a look of horror on her face.
"Well, not exactly."
Donatello bit his lip.
"This was not how I wanted you to find out, but I discovered your pregnancy in your blood."
"My... pregnancy?! Are you serious?"
"Yes. This next test I'll be doing is to see if the baby is alive."
Lily looked absolutely stunned as Donatello performed an ultrasound exam into her uterus. He blew a sigh of relief when we heard a heartbeat ringing and surrounding us.
"And the baby's alive, thank heavens."
"How is this possible?" Lily asked. "James and I swore we were done having children."
"I take it you were using protection?"
"Yes. Condoms. Though we seemed to be so passionate in our last time. We might have broke the condom as a result."
"I think this was James' message to you, saying just how much he loved you."
Lily smiled and cried at the same time, and she did not speak another word. Caleb and I decided it was safe enough for us to drive Lily and me home.
April 5, 2060
DIANA'S POV
Caleb and I joined the prom committee as a result of Kara and Max ruining Caleb's party at the last minute. We did not want them to rule over our prom. It gave Maria some relief, and it gave me something exciting to do asides from my very busy schedule and worrying about my godmother, who was now expecting her third child. Before I went to my first prom committee meeting, I stood still, still dressed in my cheerleader uniform. And I wondered how I went from being a shy middle-schooled cheerleader with braces and acne to this confident high school student with the busiest schedule possible.
I changed my clothes, met up with Caleb outside the locker rooms, and raced to the science room downstairs for the meeting. Thankfully, the sun had yet to set.
"Whew!" I exclaimed, panting as I stopped in the doorway. "Sorry we're late!"
"It's okay," Maria replied with a frown. "We can't leave to check out the venues yet."
I glanced around the room. Besides the three of us, only Payton, Sydney, and Tucker were present.
"Hang on," Caleb spoke. "Didn't you say there would be more members, Maria?"
"A bunch of people bailed when they heard Kara was committee head at Staples High," Payton explained.
"Oh, boy," I replied, shaking my head. "Then where is Kara?
Maria, looking just as frustrated as I was, threw her hands up.
"I don't know! She hasn't shown up yet!"
"She hasn't been responding to my texts either," Tucker explained, holding up his phone. "Though, to be fair, I don't think she actually saved my number."
"Maybe she's changed her mind about being on the committee?" I suggested.
"Please don't make me freak out, Diana!" Maria cried as she started pacing in the classroom.
"Let's give her fifteen more minutes," Payton replied. "If she's not here by then, we'll go."
"I'll keep time," Sydney said, taking out her phone to start a stopwatch.
LILIANNA'S POV
I sat at the table with my two kids, plus Russell and Amy. Thankfully, I had my appetite back tonight. After hearing the news from my father, I could not help but feel relieved. Russell had made macaroni and cheese with broccoli and ground beef.
"You're actually eating!" Russell said excitedly. "That's wonderful! What all did you do since last week?"
"Well, after some encouragement from both you and Anna, I took the kids home with me on Friday," I explained. "But our first night back in our house didn't go very well. Mika couldn't sleep and Little Donnie had nightmares."
"Oh, dear," Amy replied with a frown. "So what are you going to do?"
"We're going to move to a different house in Westport. James' murder happened in that house and there's just too many memories that will take us back to that night. And besides, we're going to need more room."
"We do?" Little Donnie asked. "Why? Our house was big enough."
"Big enough for you and Mika alone," I answered, placing a hand on my slightly swollen abdomen. "But for three of you?"
"Three of us?"
"There's only two of us!" Mika replied. "What's going on?"
"What's going on is..."
I paused, putting a huge smile on my face.
"We're going to have another baby."
"Oh my gosh!" everyone in the room exclaimed at the same time.
"So that's why you were nauseous and not eating!" Russell said with laughter. "And we all thought it was grief."
"You even fooled me," Amy replied with a smile. "Do you know how far along you are?"
"Well, far enough for me to have a small bump. I just found out Saturday morning. I'd have to go see my dad again to see when the baby's due."
I paused, biting my lip.
"But I'll admit, I'm terrified this time. I'll be doing this without James."
"But you won't be alone," Little Donnie replied, much to my surprise. "Dad would want us to take care of you. Mika and I will do all the chores in the house."
"We will?" Mika asked.
"Yes, we will."
"Donatello-"
"Nuh-uh."
My son held up both his index fingers, knowing exactly what I was thinking.
"We're doing this, Mom. We love you. We don't want to see you hurt. And if we need help, I promise I'll call Wilbur."
I smiled, still surprised that my son was willing to do all this for me.
"Thank you, Donnie. That's very sweet of you. Mika, that means you will have to do whatever your brother tells you to do. Do you understand?"
"Yes, Mommy."
I could not help but gaze at my son.
"It only seems like yesterday that you were the baby I was carrying. And here you are, about to be ten years old. Stop growing up so fast, Donatello."
We laughed as we continued eating dinner, this time with smiles on all our faces.
DIANA'S POV
"There's still no sign of her," Sydney said as she stopped the clock.
"And no text," Tucker chimed in.
"I say we go before it starts getting late," Caleb suggested.
"Yes, please," Maria and I replied at the same time.
"To the parking lot!" Payton cheered.
The six of us walked together out to the parking lot and decided on carpools. Just when we were about to get in our cars, a shiny blue convertible flying car lowered into the parking lot. I rolled my eyes when I discovered Kara was the driver with Zoe and Kieran in the back seat.
"Where have you been?" Maria asked angrily.
Kara gave us a look of exasperation as she held up her coffee cup.
"The better question is, where do you think you're going?"
"Were you guys seriously going to leave without us?" Zoe asked.
"You were almost half an hour late!" Payton lashed out.
"I'm in charge of this committee!" Kara replied angrily. "You can't just leave without me!"
"Oh, yes, we can," I shot back. "Haven't you ever heard of punctuality?"
"And besides, Payton and I are in charge, too," Maria chimed in.
"Shut up, Maria!" Zoe shouted. "Quit being such a control freak for once in your life!"
Maria opened her jaw with shock before clenching her fists.
"How... dare... you?"
"Zoe, how about you shut up?" I defended my friend, not feeling in the mood to mess around.
"What's your problem? Maria was yelling at my friend, so I called her out."
"What was that, Kieran?" Kara asked.
"Look, everyone's here now," Kieran spoke louder. "So can we go check out the venues?"
"Do you need the address, Kara?" Maria asked, taking out her phone.
"No, Maria. Let's go."
Zoe smirked at us while Kieran mouthed I'm sorry. Kara turned on the car and drove off. We got in our own cars and started to drive to the first venue. I rode in the passenger seat of Caleb's car since I was not a licensed driver.
"Well, that was interesting," I said with a moan.
"Yeah. I knew what I was getting into, but it doesn't make it any easier."
"It's brave of you to step up, especially with Zoe on the committee and all."
"I was really nervous when I first found out she and Brian were coming back," Caleb explained. "But now that they're here, I actually feel relieved."
"Really? How come?"
"Seeing her act this way reminds me of everything that was wrong with our relationship. Makes me even more grateful to be with someone like you now."
I smiled at the same time he did.
"What did you ever see in her?" I asked.
"She could be really sweet when she wanted to be," Caleb answered, his smile turning upside down. "So sweet I would forget anything was wrong. And then when she wasn't being sweet, I thought I could change her somehow. I felt like I had to because she was my girlfriend. Finding out Zoe was cheating on me hurt like heck, but it was also kind of a relief. Like I was being set free. I used to be afraid of Zoe and her friends. But now?"
He grinned.
"I feel like I'm in control."
"You're rather confident about this."
"If I'm not, who will be?"
"Me, I hope," I answered. "So, how long until we get to this first venue?"
"Next exit. We're going to the docks."
"Ooh!"
After a few minutes, we found ourselves on a huge boat and joined up with everyone else.
"Welcome aboard!" Payton greeted us. "This first stop is Maria's suggestion, so, girl, tell us all about it!"
"Thank you, Payton," Maria said with a huge smile. "This stylish and affordable venue will allow us to celebrate prom while cruising around Long Island Sound with a possible trip to New York City. The company has hosted several proms before and has a great relationship with the school board. Working with them should be easy and fun."
"So is there any catch?" Sydney asked.
"We might run into an iceberg and-"
"Nope!" Maria interrupted Tucker's thought. "No catch!"
"Oh, please," Kara chimed in, rolling her eyes. "New Haven and Bridgeport both had their proms here last year."
"Yeah," Payton replied enthusiastically. "And it was a hit with both schools."
"Their sloppy seconds might be good enough for you," Zoe said with annoyance. "But some of us have class."
"Well, I think this place is classy enough for any of us," I sternly replied before forcing a smile on my face. "Nice couches, nice view, plenty of room for dancing."
"Your definition of classy is so pathetic it's not even cute anymore."
"Please, can we put our personal feelings aside and focus on making this a good prom?" Maria asked as Zoe rolled her eyes again.
"Whatever."
"I still say this is a crappy prom venue," Kara said.
"Do you have any real reasons?" Payton asked.
"Um, actually, this boat seems a little small for all the Westport High and Staples High students combined," Kieran quietly chimed in.
"Oh, yeah," Kara agreed with a smug smile. "And don't forget about all the people bringing dates from other schools!"
"Well, maybe we could rent a bigger boat from the same company?" Caleb suggested.
"This is their biggest boat," Maria replied. "But I'm sure we would all fit if-"
"You're not seriously going to suggest cramming in close together!" Zoe angrily interrupted her. "There are boys at your school who smell."
It was my turn to roll my eyes, but she had a point.
"Sorry, Maria," Tucker replied. "But I think that ship has sailed."
Maria and I groaned at the pun.
"Okay, let's see if you like the next venue," Payton said with sadness in her voice.
We dispersed into our cars to go to the next venue option.
LILIANNA'S POV
"It's weird how grief works," I told Russell when we sat alone in his office. "Just two weeks ago, I felt I didn't have any hope. Now, I feel like I can handle anything life throws at me, even a death in the family."
"That is the purpose of life, after all: to overcome obstacles and to grow with them. And it sounds like you have overcome many obstacles throughout your life. Heck, you were kidnapped and you still found a way to live. You are a very motivated woman, Lily. I don't believe even your husband's death can change that."
"You and Anna both have helped me so much through this. And now I need to move forward with a pregnancy."
I let out a shaky breath.
"Which I am so nervous about."
"How come? Because James won't be with you?"
"Yes. Now, it was very sweet of Little Donnie to offer to take care of me and do all the chores in the house. But..."
I let out a sigh, remembering just how kind James had been to me during my two previous pregnancies.
"This is not just my baby. It's James's baby, too. When I carried Donnie and Mika, he was always right there not just to take care of me, but to love on the babies as they grew inside me. Little Donnie and Mika, I am sure, will be wonderful, but they will love on their little brother or sister in their own way, not the way James did."
"I think I understand what you are saying," Russell replied. "Because you no longer have the partner you created the baby with, there's a part of you that will feel empty every evening."
"In a way, yes."
"Have you thought about searching for love again?"
"Yes, and I am off the market. James was my once in a lifetime. I need to move forward and focus on being a widowed mother. My children are my top priority now."
"Then may I suggest you look for a best friend, a confidante, to share your pregnancy with? What about Anna? It seems she really got to you these past two weeks. Maybe she can help you with your pregnancy."
"She does know babies more than anyone."
I nodded firmly after I spoke those words, having a plan in motion.
DIANA'S POV
I opened the door to the house, walked into the living room where my parents were, and I collapsed.
"Long day?" Dad asked me.
I mustered a thumbs-up.
"I admit, I totally forgot you joined the prom committee," Mom said with a laugh. "What did you do today?"
"We explored three different venues," I explained. "First, we went to a docks and got on the biggest boat. But that got turned down because it would be a tight fit for two schools. Then we went to the Hotel Pomfret. At first, Kara was on board because the place was so fancy. But then we turned the venue down because it would have cost us twenty thousand dollars."
"Oof!" Dad exclaimed with a wince.
"I take it the third option was the winner?" Mom asked.
"Yes. Kara's country club. We all agreed it was the perfect place and most of us agreed to a red carpet theme."
"Ooh, that's cool! That means we need to find a dress for you that's Hollywood-worthy."
"Mom, it doesn't have to be Hollywood-worthy. All that matters to me is that I'm spending time with Caleb and my friends. What more could I want?"
"I'm happy you feel that way," Dad replied with a smile. "But why did you just walk in like you have the weight of the world on your shoulders?"
"It's Kara and Zoe," I answered with a groan. "They were causing trouble for Maria. I was not in the mood to let it pass, so I defended her. And then they kept making excuses at the first venue, which was Maria's idea, and then they were trying to avoid seeing Maria's ideas on a theme."
"This sounds like a trying time for you. How are you feeling?"
"I'm tired from a busy day, but I'm holding together. I really do think this will be an amazing prom. Did you see Lily at work today, Dad?"
"Yes, I did," he answered with a smile. "And she was all smiles. In fact, she was glowing, like she has new life in her."
"Wilbur, are you talking literally or figuratively?" Mom asked with surprise written on her face.
"Literally," I answered.
"Figuratively," Dad answered at the same time I did.
We glanced at each other with shock.
"Wait a minute," Dad spoke. "Lily really is pregnant?"
I placed my hands over my mouth, realizing Lily didn't reveal the news to my dad.
"Umm..."
"Were you there when Lily found out?" Mom asked.
"Yes, Mom, I was. It was the night Caleb and I got followed. Lily tried to save us, but it turned out we were followed by the Vizioso gang and they had anti-mutant weapons. They got Lily unconscious and that's how we found out about her pregnancy."
"Are you serious?" Dad asked, suddenly angry. "It sounds like I am paying Antonio Vizioso a visit tomorrow morning."
April 6, 2060
"So, I heard that we're having prom at Kara's country club," Emma spoke as we headed to our lockers together.
"Yeah. It was a little weird, but the venue is nice."
"Did she say anything about your running for prom queen?"
"She didn't!" I answered with a grin, realizing something went right yesterday.
"Maybe she's dropped the sabotage attempts!"
I opened up my locker with an eye scan and suddenly, a folded piece of paper fell out.
"How did that get in there?" I asked. "And who is it from?"
"I bet it's from Caleb!" Emma said excitedly. "Go on, open it!"
I laughed as I unfolded the note. But my smile quickly turned upside down.
"Surrender the crown or else!"
"Or else?" Emma repeated with worry.
"I guess I spoke to soon," I said, feeling just as angry as my dad was last night. "Kara and Max have seriously gone too far this time!"
"I can't believe they'd threaten you like that! It's totally uncalled for."
"Emma, they can't scare me off that easily. I didn't want to run at first, but now I'm in it for the long haul because of them. I'm not giving up. They're gonna have to try a lot harder than a note."
"Are you positive Max and Kara would stoop to this?" Emma asked, examining the note more closely.
"They've been so determined to win prom king and queen that they'd do anything to get it! But there's one way to know for sure."
New York City, New York, USA
WILBUR'S POV
After I clocked in, I received permission from Amy to go to Channel 6 News. I needed help to get to Antonio Vizioso. There was no way I would confront him alone. I walked into the building and met up with the robot receptionist.
"May I help you, sir?"
"I'm Agent Wilbur Robinson with the T.I.M.E. Agency," I said, holding up my badge. "I need to speak with Ms. O'Neil, please."
"One moment, please."
The receptionist made a call.
"Ms. O'Neil, you have a visitor. He's an agent from the T.I.M.E. Agency. Thank you."
She hung up and looked back up at me.
"Ms. O'Neil will be right with you."
"Thank you, ma'am."
"Thank you."
I sat down on a chair and glanced outside. The World Trade Center was in the distance, and I could not help but look in that direction. I was in awe at the vast amount of history that had occurred there and all the trials we had overcome as a country for it to be one of America's symbols again.
"Wilbur?"
I turned around and saw April, wearing her yellow jumpsuit, walking up to me. We shook each other's hands.
"What can I do for you?" April asked me.
"Two questions. One, I need your help. I need to talk with Antonio Vizioso and I am not doing it alone."
"Consider it done. Let's go."
"Just like that?" I asked with surprise.
"He almost killed my daughter!" April angrily explained. "I want to talk to him, too. Now, what was the second question?"
"We'll discuss that in the car."
We went out of the building and into my car. We took off for the Italian district of the city.
"So what did you want to ask me in the car?" April asked me.
"You're probably old enough to know about the September eleventh attacks. I was looking at the World Trade Center while waiting for you and I was wondering what your story was on that."
"I didn't just know about the attacks," April answered solemnly. "I was there."
"Really?" I asked with astonishment.
"Well, I wasn't inside the Twin Towers, exactly. But my dad had a meeting in the North Tower the night before and my parents decided to make a big night out of it. He took me and my mom to dinner at the restaurant inside the North Tower and then we went all the way down, went into the South Tower, and then went all the way back up to the observatory to watch the view of the city. I was scared of heights at first, but then I saw just how beautiful it was, even with the rain. We spent the night at the Marriott. Then, the next morning, the building shook. The three of us glanced out the window and saw a plane-sized hole in the North Tower. We didn't wait around. We immediately checked out of the Marriott and drove out of town. But not too long after we left the hotel, I saw an explosion coming out of the South Tower and I thought the world was ending. I cried the entire trip back to the farmhouse. I was only five years old."
My heart cried. To hear of a five-year-old witnessing the attacks was just cruel.
"I'm sorry you went through that," I said, not really knowing what to say. "That must have been hard."
"When we got back home in North Hampton, the attacks were all over the news. Footage of the second plane hitting the South Tower, both towers collapsing into this huge grey dust cloud, everything. So when my mom went missing and I returned to New York City with my dad two years later, it scared me so much. I didn't want to come back. Thankfully, the apartment above the store my grandpa used to own was safe to move into. It was just outside of Chinatown, away from Ground Zero. Anytime my father went away, I was always with my aunt. But I was never alone, so I always felt safe."
"That's good, at least."
"But then my dad got kidnapped and my whole life changed. Because it was the night I found out about the Kraang. But, it was also the night I met Donnie."
April smiled when she mentioned his name and started to play with her short hair.
"Thanks to Donnie, I overcame my fear of heights and I overcame the fear that something bad was going to happen to me. If my dad wasn't there for me, then Donnie was. And if Donnie wasn't, then it was Splinter. Now, if Donnie isn't there, it's you or Lily."
"I take it you've gone into the World Trade Center in this era?"
"Yes. It was actually the night of Lily's bachelorette party. The view was even more beautiful because of the sunset I witnessed. I have accepted that the September eleventh attacks will always be a part of my life and of our history as a country. It is what we choose to do with this information that matters."
"You are a very brave woman. Lily is so lucky to have you as a mom."
"Thank you."
We approached Antonio's house.
"Shall we do this?" April asked.
"Let's."
We knocked on the door and it opened to reveal one of the members of the Vizioso gang.
"We need to see your boss," I demanded. "Right now!"
"Are you alone?"
"Yes," April answered with a glare. "Now let us in."
The member let us in and led us to the boss himself.
"Well, well, if it ain't Wilbur Robinson of the Temporal Investigation, Management, and Exploration Agency," Antonio sneered at us. "And Pulitzer Prize winner April O'Neil. What brings you into my humble home?"
"An explanation," April answered angrily.
"You sent your gang to follow someone we love dearly," I sternly said, crossing my arms. "Why?"
"I refuse to answer any questions," Antonio shot back.
"Oh, you'll answer our questions," April said with a smirk. "Because if you don't, I will expose your plans to build a mutagen bomb in the city."
"I'm sorry, what?!" I asked with shock.
"Long story."
"Alright, alright," Antonio started to explain, raising his hands. "Ashley Faris is one of us."
"WHAT?!" April and I exclaimed at the same time.
"When the news came that she was arrested, we did some digging. We looked at all the security at Westport High School and we found a teenage girl named Diana Robinson sticking her nose where it don't belong."
He paused, studying me for a moment.
"Robinson... is Diana related to you, Wilbur?"
"Don't answer him, Wilbur," April told me, but I could not help becoming enraged.
"You followed MY DAUGHTER!" I yelled, pointing a finger at him. "You almost KILLED her!"
"Let's go, Wilbur!" April yelled, pulling my arm. "He's not worth it."
April and I ended up returning to T.I.M.E. and made a beeline for Lily's office. We knocked and entered. Lily glanced up at us, first with a smile, and then she frowned.
"What happened?" she asked.
"We just found out some information from Antonio Vizioso," I sternly said, giving my friend a glare. "And from you."
"From me? What are you talking about?"
"First of all, your mother threatened to expose Antonio's plans to build a mutagen bomb."
"Mom, how did you know about the mutagen bomb?" Lily asked. "The only one I've told was Anna."
"Who told me to watch out for you," April replied with worry. "Anna told me you were going to investigate the Vizioso gang alone regarding this."
"First of all, it is not only the Vizioso gang working on this!" Lily angrily replied. "All three gangs are in on it. But they haven't started building it yet. Second of all, I told Anna because I trusted her. If I told you, Mom, you would have told my father and then he would insist on investigating. I know my father, Mom. He'd take my place in a heartbeat."
"So what you are saying is that you don't trust us, the people who raised you?"
"It's not that."
"I think it's exactly that, Lilianna," April replied, crossing her arms. "You are choosing to do this alone. Let us help you."
"No. This is my mission, Mother. MINE. I have to stop them before it's too late."
"And how are you going to do that while pregnant?" I asked.
Lily gasped.
"How did you know I was pregnant?"
"Diana told me."
Lily closed her eyes and let out some breaths. She was clearly angry.
"Get out. I want you both out of my office, right now."
Westport, Connecticut, USA
DIANA'S POV
Emma and I made a beeline to the courtyard when lunch started. We looked around and found Max and Kara sitting with some other students from Staples High.
"Come on," I told her. "Let's settle this."
We walked up to them.
"She only turned me down 'cause she was intimidated by my good looks," Brian said with a smug look on his face.
"I'm sure it wasn't your giant, inflated ego that sent her packing," Terrence replied.
"I wouldn't go there, you pompous- self-righteous piece of-"
"Will you just shut up?" Kara yelled. "All you ever do is bicker!"
"It's okay, babe," Max assured her. "Tomorrow, we'll eat lunch together, just the two of us. Then, we won't have to worry about those two."
Just when Kara leaned in to kiss him, she noticed us. I crossed my arms, giving her a glare.
"What do you two want?" she asked.
"Explain this," I answered, angrily slamming the note on the table.
"Surrender the crown or else!" Max read out loud.
"Explain what?" Kara asked. "I've never seen this before."
"Stop lying," I said through gritted teeth. "This has to be you. You've been trying to turn this whole school against me since this all started!"
"Diana has a point," Emma chimed in. "No one wants prom king and queen as much as you two."
"Blame someone else," Max angrily replied. "We didn't do it."
"If my boy Max says it wasn't him, it wasn't him," Brian chimed in. "You don't have anything that says otherwise."
"I hate to admit it, but Brian's right," Zoe said. "This note isn't proof."
"For all we know, you could've written the note to set us up as the bad guys!" Zara accused me.
"You seriously believe that I wrote the note to myself?" I roared. "I'd never do such a thing!"
"Diana's way too nice to do that!" Emma defended me.
"That's exactly what she wants you to think," Kara replied.
"There is no way I'd write the note and stick it in my locker just to set you up!" I shot back.
"Are you sure about that?" Max asked, standing up and towering over me.
"Affirmative," I answered with a stern glance.
"Then prove it."
"But the note-"
"Proves nothing," Kara interrupted Emma. "Come back when you have some actual evidence."
Suddenly, the bell rang.
"Looks like that's your cue to leave."
I studied her long and hard before turning on my heel and marching away.
April 7, 2060 - San Diego, California, USA
ANNA'S POV
The portal opened to reveal Lily wearing an orange dress. But she was angry.
"Lily, are you alright?" I asked.
"You told my mother about the mutagen bomb?" Lily roared.
"Yes!" I answered honestly. "I know you said you wanted to do this alone, but let's face it. You need help, especially now that your husband is gone."
"I never asked for it!"
"Yes, you did, Lily. You wanted to get over your grief, so you asked me to help you."
"That has nothing to do with this! You don't understand, Anna. If anything I ever do gets back to my mother, she'll immediately tell my father, who will then yell at me!"
"Why would your father yell at you?" I asked with confusion. "He loves you."
"Exactly! If he ever got wind that I am investigating a mutagen bomb, he's going to want to take my place. The one person I will absolutely refuse to let die before my eyes IS MY FATHER! I love him too much to watch him die!"
I frowned, knowing exactly how she felt. Lily suddenly started crying, sitting down on the rock. I sat down with her, rubbing her back to soothe her.
"Hey, I get it. I really do. My father often refused to let me leave the city to go hunting with him because he thought it was too dangerous for me. He wouldn't let me train to become a guard of the Citadel at first. And if he ever got wind that I went out hunting by myself, he would come find me and yell at me for deliberately disobeying him."
"You too, huh?" Lily asked with sniffles.
"Yes. He loved me so much he wanted to guard me with his life. But our fathers won't be there forever. Someday, we'll be on our own without them."
"My father is a genius. He deserves to do so much more to make the world better. I'm smart, but not as smart as him. I strive to keep the world safe, even if I have to sacrifice myself for it. I'm not afraid of death. I never was afraid of dying. I just always assumed Jesus would tell me when it's time and I'd accept it."
"Right now, you are needed here, Lily," I assured her. "I do think you need to tell your father how you feel though, and make sure you tell him first. Otherwise, he will not trust you."
Lily let out a sigh.
"You're right. I hate to do this, but you're right. I guess I'll be going there right now."
"Wait, Lily. There is something else."
"What is it?"
I dug into my bag and took out a dress with blended colors of orange, red, and yellow. Underneath the dress was a black undershirt and black leggings. Then, I took out a pair of black boots.
"This is for you," I explained with a smile. "You are more than the sun now, Aumanil. You are a phoenix rising from the ashes. You have overcome grief and you have triumphed. I would be honored for you to wear this. It was my mother's. I just did a little work to make it yours."
Lily let out a soft gasp as she felt the dress. She took all the clothes, closed her eyes, and turned to her right. The sun shone around her. By the time she appeared again, she wore the dress, the black undergarments, and the black boots. She also wore her titanium bracelets, now painted gold. Her belt she previously wore was now gone. Instead, her lightsaber was placed inside her dress. Her red hair had also changed. Before, she had the braided crown. Now, all of her hair was loose and she wore a golden tiara across her forehead and around the back of her head.
"Anna, this is beautiful," Aumanil said in awe. "But I cannot wear this. People may easily recognize me as Lilianna."
"Then let's fix that."
I got out some orange paint and painted wings outside her blue eyes. I also applied black mascara on her lashes and placed black lipstick on her lips.
"How is that?"
I got out a mirror and she gasped.
"I don't even recognize myself! Anna, you're incredible. But there's another reason why I cannot wear this."
"Please do not say because it was my mother's," I replied with worry.
"No. I love it! But I won't be able to wear it right now. I'm expecting."
"You're expecting what?"
Aumanil pulled the dress back against her body, and I gasped when I saw a small bump coming out of her midsection.
"Oh my goodness! You're having another baby?"
Aumanil grinned and nodded excitedly. All we could do in this moment was embrace each other and laugh and cry together.
April 12, 2060 - Westport, Connecticut, USA
DIANA'S POV
We did our stretches before cheerleading practice started.
"All right, everyone!" Mia announced with a grin. "It's time to run through the routine. Diana, it's your day to do the featured section. I saw that, Zoe."
I glanced over as Zoe rolled her eyes again.
"What? I'm not allowed to be annoyed? Seems like you always are, captain."
I clapped twice to get everyone's attention.
"Come on, squad, let's get cheering!"
We got into formation for the first half of the routine, posing with confidence with our hands on our hips. We leapt up high in the air to touch our toes and then we danced to the beat, ending that sequence with a high kick.
"Nice form!" Mia shouted.
We danced some more before Mia pointed to me.
"Diana, take it away!"
I did the solo with all my might and spirit, performing the complicated routine with no effort at all. I was thankful I had asked April to help me train for the part. April had insisted she was no cheerleader, but as she had been a kunoichi since college, she found it a pleasure to do it. I ended the routine with a stunning smile, my hands up in the air.
"Woo!" Payton cheered. "Go Diana!"
We danced as a group one more time before performing the splits and holding our hands up in the air. Mia stood up and stopped the music.
"Okay, squad, this is shaping up. Watch the timing on that toe touch. Several of you were late. Diana, nice job with the solo. Just be careful to get your legs all the way up on the roundoff."
I nodded with a smile.
"Oh, so now you're giving her notes?" Kara yelled from her spot.
"Yes," Mia shot back. "I am the captain. That's my job!"
"Your job is to give notes to the team," Zoe shouted. "Not provide private coaching for your favorites."
"She gave one note!" Sydney yelled. "How the frick is that private coaching?"
"And speaking of favorites, why is your girlfriend choreographing, huh?" Kara asked.
"Kara, as long as I get a fair chance-"
"Stay out of this, Kieran!"
"Who, whoa, whoa!" I joined the conversation. "Isn't this between me and Kieran, anyway? We're the ones competing."
"Yeah, Kara," Payton defended me. "You're not even trying out. What's the big deal?"
"This isn't about the solo section, Diana and Payton," Mia answered with sadness. "And it never was."
I hung my head down.
"It's all about Staples High School and their stupid egos!" Sydney shouted loud and clear.
"Did you really just call us stupid?" an enraged Zoe asked.
"You are not stupid," I answered angrily, pointing a finger at her. "Your ego on the other hand, is."
"Zoe's right, though," Kieran replied with a frown. "That wasn't very nice."
"So?" Sydney shot back. "Neither of your friends have ever said a single nice thing to me!"
"Mia, your choreographer is being a bi-"
"No, you know what?" Mia chimed in, interrupting Kara. "She's right. You three have been nothing but trouble since this whole thing started. And I have half a mind to just call off tryouts right now and give Diana the part."
"You'd really do that?" I asked, feeling mixed about this.
Mia sighed.
"No, but only because I made a promise to Kieran that he'd have a chance."
"So like you, Mia," Kara said with a smirk. "You talk a big game, but when it comes down to it, you're too nice to pull the trigger."
"I... I think we should call it a day."
"Are you okay, Mia?" Emma asked.
"I'll be fine, but... just, everyone, get out of here."
"That's what I thought," Kara replied. "Some cheer captain you are. Come along, Kieran."
"Kieran, wait," I called out.
"What, Diana?"
"I thought we were friends."
"I want to be, but..."
He trailed off, closing his mouth, thinking better of the choice he had just made. He followed Kara and Zoe out of the gym.
"Diana, don't expect him to ever admit to the pressure in front of Kara or Zoe," Payton told me. "It's not gonna happen."
"How could someone be so... hateful?" Emma asked.
"I don't know," Sydney answered. "And I'm sorry I shot off. I just... needed to say what Mia couldn't."
"It's okay, honey," Mia chimed in, already changed into her red dress and black leggings. "Kara was looking for a fight, and she got one."
"I guess I'll be heading home now," I said, slumping my shoulders and walking out the door.
LILIANNA'S POV
I heard the door open. I stood still in confusion and then immediately worried for my kids.
"Who's there?" I asked.
"It's me, Diana!"
"Oh!"
I blew a sigh of relief as I greeted my goddaughter at the door. We embraced each other. I had a smile on my face while Diana frowned.
"Hey, what's the matter?"
"Can I talk to you?" she asked. "And may I help you move stuff around?"
"Absolutely. I will listen while you work. I'm afraid I have been restricted from lifting heavy objects, even with my mind. What's going on?"
"Drama, Lily. Lots and lots of drama."
"Well, I'm afraid I haven't seen you much since James died. Please tell me what you've been up to."
"Staples High School had a fire and it burned enough to where half the school transferred to Westport High School until the summer," Diana explained. "Unfortunately, we got the bullies. Brian stormed out of the tour I was giving him. Kara's been giving me a hard time regarding running for prom queen. And I was supposed to be up for a solo and that hasn't happened yet because Kara pushed a freshman cheerleader who is just as skilled as I am into making this a tryout. We've performed at some baseball games so far, but with no solo. It's just... a lot. Today, Kara pushed things too far and we had this huge fight during cheerleading practice just because Mia gave me notes on my performance. My head is just... so full."
"I've been there," I replied. "You're feeling burnout."
"I'm trying my best to hang in there and not even that's enough. I get angry easily now because I'm getting tired of, excuse my language, all the bullshit."
I let out a sigh.
"I admit I've been getting easily angered myself. First I found out something and decided to investigate it myself. Then James died. Now, I'm going through a pregnancy alone. Life isn't easy, Diana, and it will not get any easier. But how you react to it can make a difference."
"I'm trying so hard to be nice to the Staples students, build the bridge."
"Then keep going. Eventually, you will change their minds and you will help build up their confidence. I had to work very hard with my dad just a few days ago because I hid something from him. Thankfully, he took it well."
"What is it?" Diana asked.
"Now's not the time. You already have a lot on your plate. Just worry about you for right now. Things will fall into place one day at a time."
"Well, I did invite my parents to this open mic night on Friday."
"Why don't we come with you?" I suggested.
"That's actually a great idea! I think we all could use a night of fun. And thankfully, this will take place at a restaurant, so you'll have plenty of options."
April 16, 2060
DIANA'S POV
I heard knocking on the door. I opened it to reveal my father with a big smile on his face.
"I'm home!"
"Dad, you're finally here!" I squealed excitedly. "We need to get to the restaurant in time for open mic night."
"Actually, Diana, I don't think I'm feeling up to it," Dad replied with a frown. "How about we stay in and watch TV instead?"
I felt my stomach drop.
"But Dad, you promised me we'd go!"
My father laughed and I glared at him.
"I'm just pulling your leg, princess. I know you've been looking forward to this all week."
"Daaaaaad!"
"So, anyway, since we're going to a nice restaurant, how about you wear that new dress your mother got you last week? The green one?"
"That's a good idea," I replied, finally smiling again. "I'll try it on."
My father closed the door and I got changed into my green dress with transparent sleeves and a brown belt. I decided to leave my long black hair down this time and simply placed a green headband over it. I knocked on the door again before I opened it.
"Ta-da!" I exclaimed, posing like Shirley Temple.
"Looking sharp, princess," Dad replied with approval. "Let's go!"
I got in the car with my mother and brother and we made our way to the restaurant. When we got there, Lily and her two children were already waiting. To my delight, Emma and her mother were also waiting for us.
"Diana!" Emma exclaimed happily. "Mr. and Mrs. Robinson! You're here!"
"Hey there, Emma," Dad replied. "And I've told you, please call us Wilbur and Karena."
"Hello, Wilbur," Emma's mother Julia greeted us. "Hello, Karena. I didn't realize Diana was bringing you along."
"Of course, they're here," I replied with an innocent smile. "Who else is going to pay for dinner?"
Wesley snickered and held his hand up. I gave him a high-five.
"Now wait a minute," Dad chimed in. "Was that why you were so insistent that I join you?"
"Sorry, Dad. It was that, or beg for you to give me my allowance early."
Everyone laughed.
"Kids," Julia replied. "Right?"
"They're great," Dad answered. "But terrible."
"Welcome to Pindarus!" a hostess greeted us. "How many?"
"Lily, Julia, you're welcome to join us if you'd like," Mom offered.
"Of course!" Lily replied. "There's three of us."
"And there's four of us," Dad said. "And two of you. So-"
"Nine, please," Emma interrupted him excitedly.
"Right this way, then!" the hostess said with enthusiasm.
She led us to a long table and we sat down.
"So, Julia, what have you been up to?" Dad asked. "It's been, what-"
"Don't say it, Wilbur!" Julia replied laughing. "You'll make me feel old."
"You two know each other?" Lily and Karena asked, each with a raised eyebrow.
"She was my first crush, if you can believe it," Dad explained, remembering the story he told me. "We knew each other in grade school before I met Karena."
"Well, things have been... up and down," Julia answered my father's question with hesitation. "But I'm keeping it together. Emma's been a huge help. What about you?"
"Can't complain. I've been here in Westport for almost fifteen years now. Great town. Great job. Great life."
"Great kids?" Wesley asked with a gleam in his blue eyes.
"Good but not great," Karena teased him. "Our son fishes for compliments too much."
"Oooh, burn!" Emma and Little Donnie grilled him at the same time.
The waitress came back and took our orders.
"Hmm, I can't decide," Lily said, glancing at the menu. "It all sounds so good. What are the specials?"
"We have two: roast brussels sprouts with whole mushrooms and garlic pasta with farm fresh heirloom tomatoes."
"Not surprised to hear that," Julia replied with a frown. "I can smell the garlic from here."
"Me, too," Lily chimed in. "Normally I like the smell, but not this time around."
"Sorry about that, miss."
"Don't worry," Julia said. "I guess I just haven't been to a nice restaurant with Italian food in a while."
"I'll actually take the pasta, please," Dad chimed in.
"Me, too," I said. "Lily, you should choose the brussels sprouts. Sounds like it'll be good for the baby."
"My father would agree with you. Alright. The brussels sprouts, it is. And I'll also do two bowls of macaroni and cheese for these two kiddos."
"Make that three," Mom chimed in. "My son is not quite a teenager yet."
"And what would you like, ma'am?" the waitress asked my mom.
"A cheeseburger and sweet potato fries, please."
The waitress wrote everything down and returned to the kitchen. A few moments later, my friends arrived.
"Go on, you two," Julia encouraged us. "We'll let you know when the food gets here."
Emma and I ran over to be with our boyfriends and greeted them with kisses.
"You're here early," Caleb greeted me with a smile.
"Emma and I decided to get the families together and we included Lily and her family as well. We just found out Lily's having a baby, so this is our way of celebrating that."
"Oh, right! I forgot about that. But you think you'll still have time to enjoy open mic night with all the celebrating going on?"
"Don't worry, Caleb," I replied with a wink. "Diana Robinson's got it all under control!"
He laughed, and then he gazed at my dress.
"Is that new? I think green may be my favorite color on you."
"You say that about every color dress I wear!" I replied with laughter. "And yes, it's new."
We were lead to an even larger round table near the stage and I sat next to Aiden.
"So, Diana, I've written two new songs, and I can't decide which one to play tonight."
"Alright. What are they about?"
"I've been doing a series that's loosely inspired by the books I had to read for English," Aiden explained. "One is a love song for Daisy and Jay from The Great Gatsby. During the parts where they're happy, anyway. The other's inspired by Lord of the Flies, when people are starting to form different tribes."
"You should play The Great Gatsby song," I suggested. "It just sounds like it could inspire people."
"I won't mention the book by name though, just in case they get any ideas about dying in a pool."
"Sounds like a plan."
"Look, there's Tucker!" Luis said excitedly. "I think the show's about to start."
"Testing, testing," Tucker said into the microphone. "Whoa, it sounds like there's five of me! Welcome to Open Mic Night at Pindarus, everybody."
We all cheered.
"We've got a lot of performers lined up, and spots still open for any act that isn't emo poetry. Seriously, no one wants to hear that. First up, we have Kieran, who will be juggling."
I watched Kieran, now wearing a yellow shirt and blue jeans walking up to the stage with three hacky sacks.
"Thanks! It's great to be here tonight."
"So I know Aiden's playing one of his songs," I told my friends. "But is anyone else performing?"
"Michael and I have a bet," Caleb said with a teasing smile. "If someone plays Wonderwall, Michael has to sing a song I pick."
"If no one plays it, he has to play a song that I pick," Michael chimed in, returning the smile.
"Cameron said she was going to come and read a horror story she wrote," Aiden said with a frown. "But I haven't seen her."
"Hoping she'd be here?" I asked with a smirk.
"What? No! Maybe! Why are you asking?"
"Turn around."
"Boo!"
Aiden jumped at Cameron's yell as I stifled a laugh.
"Hey, did you decide what song you're performing tonight?"
"Er, yeah!" Aiden quickly answered. "Diana helped."
"Awesome. I'd love to stay and chat, but a few of my Staples friends who didn't go to Westport High are here and I promised I'd sit with them."
"Oh, okay."
Cameron walked away as Aiden blushed.
"Got a bit of a crush, Aiden?" Maria asked with a grin.
"Wow, even Maria's noticed!" Myra said excitedly.
"Okay, okay," Aiden replied in annoyance. "Diana, what about you? Are you performing anything?"
"Well, I was thinking I might sing a song."
"You sing?" Maria asked with surprise.
"I'm not amazing or anything, but I can carry a tune."
"Yeah, sure," Michael replied with doubt. "You say that, and then you're gonna go up there and have the voice of some Broadway star."
"I won't. I swear!"
"I'll believe it when I hear it."
I signed up for my act and then I saw my father waving at me. I waved at Emma and we went back to our table to join our families. It turned out that Lily was all smiles the entire evening so far. My father had talked about returning to Todayland for a week in May and had invited Lily and her children to go along. Aiden played his Great Gatsby song on the electric keyboard and it was a huge hit with the audience. We continued to focus on our food as more of our friends did their acts. Nishan did a magic act with Maria's phone. Frank ended up singing Wonderwall, which meant Michael had to sing a song Caleb picked. I was laughing to the point of crying when Caleb picked a song about being popular. Needless to say, even though Michael was a great singer, he was clearly not thrilled with the song choice. Then Cameron read her horror story, which turned out to be scarier than I thought.
"Thank you, Cameron," Tucker said in the microphone. "I will be sending you a bill for the night light that I'll be purchasing after this in hopes of getting some sleep. Up next, we have Diana Robinson. Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to go change my pants."
I walked up to the stage with thunderous applause from my family and friends. I waved.
"Thank you, everyone," I spoke. "I'd like to dedicate this song to my friends from Staples High School. Here we go!"
I started playing a song on my phone, and upbeat music started to ring all through the restaurant. I looked into Lily's eyes and saw a huge grin on her face. She recognized the song I picked to sing.
"Before last night, I was down on my luck. There was nothing going my way. Before last night, I wasn't feeling the love. No reason for a smile on my face. But I was always told, you can turn it around. Do it for the light day! So get yourself together, head out on the town. The music gets you feeling okay!"
My friends started to clap to the beat.
"Now I'm on a roll and I'm losing control, 'cause I got that sunshine. It's like the world is mine. I can't deny I'm feeling good. Can't stop from smiling. I'm bottled lightning. Oh, deep inside, I'm feeling good. All my heartbreak, my long and rainy days are gone, and now I can't complain. Everything's alright. I'm feeling so alive. I can't deny I'm feeling good, yeah."