I know this is a bit late, but I was in Vegas for Halloween and couldn't write until Nov. 2. But, hope you enjoy, and I'm officially 18 now!

The house of David and Lily was buzzing with last-minute Halloween prep. Mike and Angela were in the kitchen, sorting out candy into bowls, while Rosie carefully spun webs across the front windows, adding a perfect eerie touch.

Angela glanced over her shoulder at Rosie. "Thanks for the webs, Rose. You're making this place look… authentically haunted."

The black widow chuckled, smoothing a strand of silk. "Well, if there's one thing I know, it's webs."

Mike tossed a few candy bars into a bowl, watching Tuck and Roll roll around the room aimlessly. "I think those two have already got the trick part down," he said, grinning.

"Those two are gonna trip someone before the night's over, I can feel it." Lily added with a giggle.

David walked in with a box of decorations, glancing around. "Place looks great. Think we've got enough spooky for the kids?"

"We could always go spookier," Mike joked, holding up a plastic skeleton. "Hang a couple of these in the kitchen, right? Really freak everyone out."

Rosie smirked, finishing her final spin of webs. "You let me know if you need anything more realistic."

Manny tilted his head, watching the humans and the other bugs arrange decorations. "So, what exactly is special about Halloween?" he asked, genuinely curious. "I've never heard of it… never celebrated it."

Angela looked up from the bowl of candy, smiling. "It's all about dressing up, getting treats, and giving everyone a little harmless scare."

Mike added, "Yeah, and for kids, it's mostly about the candy. They go door-to-door, say 'trick or treat,' and people hand them sweets."

The mantis raised an eyebrow. "So… children demand treats by threatening tricks?" He gave an amused chuckle, looking over at Gypsy, who stood nearby, listening intently.

Gypsy smiled warmly. "It sounds like a night of fun and imagination, doesn't it? A little magic in the air."

David grinned. "Exactly! People dress up as all kinds of things—monsters, animals, even things that don't make much sense."

Manny's eyes sparkled. "Then perhaps we can provide some theatrical magic of our own. It sounds like the perfect night for a bit of mischief."

Gypsy nodded, sharing a glance with her husband. "Yes, my love. A little enchantment never hurt anyone."

"Never really been in costume, except for those flowers back in the circus," Francis remarked, casting a glance at Slim, who nodded in agreement.

"And a cute little bumblebee!" Heimlich added with a grin.

David chuckled, setting down the last of the decorations. "Well, maybe Lily and I can help pick something out for you bugs. We're talking makeup, fabric, whatever it takes to make it work. You know what I mean?"

Slim raised a brow, looking doubtful. "And what exactly do you have in mind for a stick insect?"

David thought for a second, grinning. "Hey, Halloween's all about creativity. We'll come up with something, trust me."

Francis sighed but couldn't hide a hint of curiosity. "Alright, but don't get any funny ideas."

"Relax, we're not gonna use makeup to make you look like a girl, even though the flies think you look like one. And the ants back on Ant Island have said the same thing," Mike said with a teasing grin.

The ladybug rolled his eyes, crossing his arms. "Thanks for the vote of confidence, Mike."

Angela laughed, shaking her head. "We'll definitely steer clear of anything that might make you look too… well, feminine. We want you to feel comfortable."

David smirked, adding, "Besides, we're all about creativity here. Maybe we can find a way to highlight your unique features instead. Something that suits you."

"Speaking of which," Mike continued, "we need to get moving soon. Angela and I are heading to pick up Dot, Teeny, and Daisy in a minute. Can't wait for them to join in on the fun!"

Heimlich bounced slightly. "I hope they're as excited as we are!"

Manny nodded, a glimmer of excitement in his eyes. "This is going to be quite the celebration!"

"Once we find costumes for those kids, they will be," Mike said, a grin spreading across his face.

Angela nodded in agreement. "And knowing them, they'll be ready to show off their costumes as soon as we pick them up. I can already picture Dot running around in something colorful."

"Or Teeny trying to outshine her," David added with a chuckle. "That little one has a flair for drama."

Rosie leaned in, intrigued. "What kinds of costumes are you thinking? I can help out if you need ideas!"

"Great idea, Rosie," Angela replied. "We could brainstorm a few options for each of them on the way. Something that fits their personalities."

Lily clasped her hands together, a smile growing wider. "I can't wait to see how this all comes together. The more the merrier!"

"Right?" Mike said, glancing at his fiancee. "Alright, hon, let's get going! We'll figure it out when we get back."

The two humans walked out and made their way toward Mike's '06 Grand Caravan. He pushed the unlock button on the key fob twice, the lights flashing as the doors clicked open. Mike opened the driver's door and handed the keys to Angela with a playful grin.

"Why don't you do the honors of driving this time, babe?" he said, his tone light and teasing.

Angela raised an eyebrow, a smirk forming on her lips. "You just want to relax and enjoy the ride, huh?"

"Maybe," Mike admitted, chuckling as he settled into the passenger seat. "But I also trust you to navigate better than I do."

Angela slid into the driver's seat and started the engine, the familiar rumble filling the air. "Alright then, let's go pick up the girls. They'll be so excited!"

As they pulled out, Mike glanced back at the house, a sense of anticipation building. "This Halloween is going to be something special."

Angela glanced over at her fiance as the car moved along the road. "So, what costumes should the girls wear? And what are you planning to be?"

"Not really sure yet," Mike said, rubbing his chin thoughtfully. "But I was thinking… maybe something on the shirtless side. You know, something classic and bold. I'll figure it out."

Angela smirked. "Oh really? Going for that 'effortlessly cool' look?"

"Something like that," he laughed.

Angela turned her eyes back to the road, grinning. "I kind of want to go as that cat Penny dressed up as in The Big Bang Theory."

"Ooh, can't wait to see you in it," Mike said, raising his eyebrows. "And hey, you've worn cute, revealing stuff around Emily, Dot, and the blueberry gang before, so they're used to your style."

Angela laughed. "I think they'll survive one more costume. Plus, it's Halloween—time to have a little fun!"

"Exactly," Mike agreed, nodding. "Let's make it a night they'll never forget."

Later, they parked at a secluded spot near the island. Angela turned off the car and climbed out with Mike. They made their way toward the anthill, where they spotted Dot and her fellow blueberry friends, Teeny and Daisy.

"Hey, girls!" Mike called out, waving enthusiastically.

Dot's face lit up as she dashed over, throwing her arms around Mike "Mike! Angela!"

Angela smiled and bent down to hug Teeny and Daisy, who both squeezed the female human tightly. "It's so good to see you kids!"

"What are we doing today?" Daisy asked, her eyes sparkling with excitement.

"Yeah, what's the plan?" Teeny chimed in, bouncing on her feet.

Mike grinned, enjoying their enthusiasm. "Well, you girls are in for a treat! Literally. We've got a special day planned, and you're going to love it!"

"Special day?" Dot echoed, looking intrigued.

Angela stood up, glancing at Mike, her smile wide. "You'll see! Just follow us, and we'll show you!"

All of them made their way to the minivan. Dot and Teeny eagerly scrambled into the backseat, their excitement bubbling over. Daisy settled into the middle of the third row, her eyes darting around, taking in every detail.

"Buckle up, everyone!" Mike called as he climbed into the driver's seat, glancing back to make sure they were all secure.

Dot and Teeny fumbled with their seatbelts, giggling as they tried to buckle themselves in. "I got it!" Teeny exclaimed, finally clicking her belt into place.

"Me too!" Dot cheered, giving a thumbs up.

Daisy tugged at her seatbelt, trying to get it just right. "Wait for me!" she called, finally securing herself.

"Alright, looks like everyone's ready," Mike said with a grin, adjusting the rearview mirror to check on them. "Let's hit the road!"

Angela settled into the passenger seat, a smile on her face as she watched the kids in the back. "You girls are going to love what we have planned!"

The car reversed, then turned around and made its way back toward Bug City.

Mike glanced at Dot in the rearview mirror, hesitating before asking, "So, Dot, how are things going with your mom and sister? I mean, I know it's a little weird for us to ask, considering… you know…"

Dot let out a small sigh, looking down at her knees sadly. "Well… my mom and Atta have been arguing a lot with Mr. Soil, Dr. Flora, and the rest of the Colony Council since you guys fought with them all after Flik left…"

Angela sighed softly, thinking, "As much as we hate them… I never thought they'd argue with each other like that." She cleared her throat and gently asked, "And… are you still upset at your sister for what she did to Flik?"

Dot looked up, her expression conflicted. "I am… I just don't understand why she and the others treated him that way. He was trying so hard to help us. I miss him."

Mike's grip on the wheel tightened slightly. "It's tough when people don't appreciate someone who's trying to help. Flik didn't deserve that."

Dot looked out the window, her small voice barely above a whisper. "I just wish he'd come back. Things were better when he was here."

Angela turned her head and gave the young freckled ant a comforting and reassuring smile. "Who knows, Dot? Sometimes things change. And maybe one day, Atta and the others will realize how much they need him."

Dot offered a faint smile, her spirits lifting a little. "Thanks. I hope so."

"So do we, kid…" Mike sighed, his voice filled with empathy. "So do we…"

Teeny leaned over with a reassuring smile. "Hey, Dot. You've got us—your fellow blueberries. And all your human and circus friends, too. We're all here for you."

Dot glanced between her friends, her expression softening. "Thanks, Teeny. I know I'm not alone. It's just… I wish things were different back home."

Daisy piped up from the back, determined to cheer her up. "Well, maybe tonight we can make you forget about all that. We're gonna have so much fun, you won't even have time to be sad!"

Dot couldn't help but laugh, her spirits lifting. "You guys are the best. I really needed this."

Mike smiled, catching Angela's eye as they drove. It was clear tonight was going to be special for all of them.

Later, after they reached David's house, everyone climbed out of the Grand Caravan. The girls immediately stopped in their tracks, their eyes widening as they took in the decorations scattered around the yard and porch.

Paper bats hung from the trees, cobwebs stretched over the bushes, and carved pumpkins with flickering candles lined the walkway, casting eerie shadows that danced in the dim light. Dot, Teeny, and Daisy stared in wide-eyed wonder.

"Whoa…" Dot whispered, inching closer to a pumpkin with a toothy grin. "What is all this?"

Teeny looked up at Angela, her face full of curiosity. "Why are there webs everywhere? Did more spiders move in?"

Angela chuckled, kneeling beside them. "Nope, no extra spiders here. Those webs are all part of the Halloween decorations. Rosie helped make them all!"

Daisy pointed to a skeleton decoration propped up on the porch. "And what's that supposed to be?"

Mike grinned. "That's a prop of a human skeleton. That's just for fun too. Tonight's all about pretending and make-believe. You'll see!"

Dot looked around, excitement bubbling. "I can't wait to join in on all of it!"

They then approached the door, and Mike gave it a few quick knocks. A moment later, the door swung open, revealing David with a big grin on his face.

"Hey, kiddos!" he greeted the girls excitedly, bending down to wrap them all in a big, warm hug.

Dot, Teeny, and Daisy squealed with delight, hugging him back tightly. "David!" Dot exclaimed. "This place looks amazing!"

David chuckled as he pulled back, glancing over his shoulder at the decorations. "Glad you like it! We went all out to make it spooky and fun just for you."

Teeny looked up at him, her eyes wide with curiosity. "Is it all for this Halloween thing?"

David nodded. "Yep! And trust me, tonight's going to be like nothing you've ever done before."

All of them walked inside, and the girls were immediately greeted by the circus bugs, who cheered at the sight of them.

"Dim!" the young ants squealed, spotting the towering rhinoceros beetle across the room. They ran over, hugging him from either side, pressing themselves against his sturdy legs.

Dim looked down with a delighted grin, his antennae wiggling with excitement. "Hi, girls!" he rumbled warmly, shifting his weight slightly to acknowledge their hugs as best as he could.

The other circus bugs gathered around, smiling at the reunion. Heimlich clapped his many tiny hands together, laughing. "Ah, it is so wonderful to see our little friends again!"

Francis smirked, folding his arms. "Looks like the gang's all here."

"Hey, give the colony's den mother a hug," Lily quipped, glancing at Francis with a teasing smile. The girls giggled and then turned to hug the ladybug, who let out an annoyed groan at Lily's joke.

"Seriously, Lil? You promised you wouldn't make me look like a girl with makeup I might need for a costume later," he huffed, rolling his eyes dramatically.

The female human giggled. "Sorry. It was the only way to get the girls excited to see you too."

"Well, it is good to see them," Francis admitted, his expression softening as he looked down at Dot, who beamed back at him. "Especially Dot."

Dot smiled brightly, her eyes sparkling. "I missed you, Francis!"

He chuckled, giving her a ruffle on the head. "Missed you too, kiddo."

Suddenly, Emily came running over, her face lighting up as she spotted the young freckled ant. "Dot!" she squealed, throwing her arms around her.

"Emily!" Dot laughed, hugging her tightly in return. The two friends shared a joyful moment, each delighted to see each other.

Lily smiled, watching her daughter and Dot. "Looks like those two haven't missed a beat."

David chuckled. "Guess they're as ready for tonight as the rest of us."

"Now that everyone's here, what are we gonna do about costumes?" Gypsy asked, glancing around the room.

"Well, Angela already knows her costume. You got any ideas on how we'll do this, bro?" Mike replied, turning to David.

David scratched his head thoughtfully. "Well, besides using makeup for some of us… I was thinking we could get creative with what we have. We've got some old clothes and accessories we can mix and match. Plus, I know a few things we could probably whip up from scraps around the house."

Teeny perked up. "Can we really make our own costumes? That sounds like so much fun!"

"Absolutely!" David said with a grin. "We can all pitch in. It'll be a group effort, and everyone will get to pick what they want to be. What do you think?"

Daisy clapped her hands excitedly. "I want to be something really cool!"

"Let's see what we can come up with!" Mike added, looking around at the group, enthusiasm building. "Who's ready to get started?"

"I already got my costume waiting, so I'll go get dressed!" Angela said, heading toward the back of the house.

"Meanwhile, we can discuss what we can use for the bugs," Lily added, glancing around at the excited faces of the girls and the circus bugs.

Mike turned to David, a playful grin on his face. "So, what do you think Emily wants to be, man?" He turned to his niece, who was still beaming from her reunion with Dot.

Emily thought for a moment, her little brow furrowing in concentration. "I wanna be a princess!" she declared, her eyes sparkling with excitement.

"Classic choice," David said with a chuckle. "A princess it is! We'll have to see what we can find to make that happen."

Dot giggled, "You'll be the prettiest princess ever, Emily!"

"Yeah!" Teeny added enthusiastically. "We can all be princesses if we want!"

Mike raised an eyebrow. "Well, as long as I'm not the prince, I'm good with that."

"Don't worry, Uncle Mike. You can be the royal jester!" Emily shot back, giggling.

"Sorry, Em. I don't think that's gonna happen," David said with a teasing smile.

"Awww!" the 3-year-old human female pouted, her bottom lip sticking out in disappointment.

Mike knelt down beside her, trying to cheer her up. "Hey, how about this: we can make your princess costume extra special. You'll be the best princess in the whole neighborhood!"

Emily's eyes brightened a little. "Really? You promise?"

"Absolutely!" Mike said, nodding earnestly. "And I'll even help you pick out some sparkly accessories."

Daisy jumped in, "Yeah! And I can help too! We can make it the best princess costume ever!"

Emily's pout turned into a big smile. "Okay! I want sparkles!"

"Sparkles it is!" David laughed, shaking his head. "Now let's get started on this royal transformation!"

"And I think we all could use your human makeup expertise for costumes," Rosie remarked, her voice filled with enthusiasm.

"Well, it won't be the only thing we use," Lily replied with a grin. "We've got fabric, old clothes, and plenty of decorations we can repurpose. We just need to get a little creative."

Mike stood up, a mischievous look crossing his face. "And I'm sure we can find some way to add a touch of sparkle to the bugs too! After all, everyone deserves to shine on Halloween."

"Especially our princess!" Dot chimed in, glancing at Emily. "We can all pitch in. Let's make sure she stands out!"

Emily clapped her hands, clearly thrilled by the idea. "Yes! I want to be the sparkliest princess ever!"

"Alright then, let's gather supplies," David said, clapping his hands together to rally everyone. "Everyone, split into teams! You guys can help Emily with her costume while we figure out what the bugs will wear."

"Team Emily!" Dot, Teeny, and Daisy shouted in unison, already huddling around Emily, ready to brainstorm ideas.

"Looks like we've got some work to do," Mike said, smirking at the chaos unfolding. "Let's see what we can come up with!"

Lily teamed up with Rosie and Gypsy, excited to dive into the task of creating costumes. "Alright, let's find some fun materials to work with!" she said, leading the way into the other room.

Meanwhile, David took the kids by the hand, guiding them toward a table stacked with craft supplies. "You girls ready to help make Emily's costume?" he asked, smiling down at them.

"Yeah!" they chimed, their voices full of enthusiasm as they rushed to gather fabric and glitter.

Mike turned to the rest of the circus bugs, a grin spreading across his face. "Alright, team! Let's see what we can do to give our bug friends some killer costumes!"

"Let's get creative!" Slim said, his eyes sparkling with excitement.

With everyone splitting into their respective groups, the energy in the room buzzed with anticipation. Laughter and chatter filled the air as they all set to work, each team focused on making Halloween unforgettable for everyone.