Chapter 13: Tread Carefully

Today was the day that the new attractions were going to open. The twins and Gregory were really excited to be some of the first ones to try them out. I helped make them breakfast with Scarlett in my apartment's kitchen. When everyone had showered and changed after finishing breakfast, the five of us headed over to the Pizzaplex. Scott allowed us and the animatronics to test out the attractions today since the Pizzaplex is usually not open until 1 PM on Sundays. Monty, Foxy, the twins, and I were walking up the stairs to the Foxy's Log Flume ride. Gregory, Scarlett, and the other Glamrocks went to test out the Superstar Bumper Cars.

"Argh you ready mates for the ride?" Glamrock Foxy was getting the twins hyped up for the attraction.

"Yeah!" Both Ryan and Reagan were getting more excited as we were getting near the top of the stairs.

The ride was designed to resemble a coastal pirate cove, complete with fake palm trees, treasure chests, and the sound of crashing waves playing on a loop. The log cars floated gently in the artificial water, waiting to whisk us away.

Foxy went into the first car with the twins since the logs could only hold four people—two seats per row. Ryan and Reagan clamored into the front seat, while Foxy settled behind them, his hook resting against the side of the log.

"Have fun!" I called, waving as their log began to drift toward the incline. Ryan and Reagan waved back, their excitement nearly lighting up the room.

Another log car floated up to the loading area, and it was Monty's and my turn. We slid into the seats side by side, and Monty leaned back, flashing me a grin.

"You ready for this, Elijah?" he asked, his tone playful.

"Hell yeah!" I grinned back, genuinely stoked for the ride.

Monty's grin turned sly. "Bet you're ready to ride this wood."

"Wait, what?" My face flushed as his words sank in.

Monty burst out laughing, his deep chuckles filling the air as the log began to wade forward. I couldn't help but laugh, too, albeit nervously, as I tried to brush off my embarrassment.

The incline mechanism kicked in, and the log car started its slow ascent. As the motorized track pulled us higher, I turned to my left, and my breath caught in my throat. Spread out before me was a stunning bird's-eye view of the Roxy Raceway. The sprawling track glittered under the artificial lights, with racecars neatly lined up like a scene from a high-stakes racing championship.

"Whoa," I murmured, mesmerized by the sight.

The log flume's track ran around the edge of the raceway, elevated high above the ground. It was as if we were soaring over the attraction, and the intricate design of the Raceway made me appreciate just how much detail went into the Pizzaplex.

"Pretty cool, huh?" Monty's voice pulled me from my thoughts.

I nodded, still taking in the view. "It's incredible. You don't realize how massive this place is until you see it from up here."

Monty leaned back in his seat, looking pleased. "Foxy's ride's got style. But wait 'til you see the splashdown at the end."

I glanced ahead, my excitement growing. The track curved sharply ahead, promising twists, turns, and surprises. Whatever was coming next, I was ready for it.

Without helping myself, I playfully splashed Monty. I started cackling at his face when he started playfully pouting.

"Oh that's how you want to play", Monty smirked. He scooped a handful of water into his hand.

"Monty, I was just playing! I don't have extra clothes!" I tried to quickly tell him before he could get me back, but it was too late.

I was drenched in the water from head to toe. "You're mean", I pouted, trying to act cute.

"Aw, is the princess all wet now?" Monty chuckled teasingly while nudging my side. I just rolled my eyes and laughed.

The log car was rounding the big bend. The both of us saw the drop coming closer into view.

"Hold on tight," Monty said with a wicked grin, gripping the edge of the log. "This is gonna be a wild one!"

The sound of rushing water grew louder as we approached the edge. I could feel the anticipation building in my chest. The track suddenly tilted downward, and before I could take another breath, we plunged into the drop.

The wind whipped through my hair, and my stomach did a flip as we raced down the steep incline. Monty let out a loud whoop beside me, and I couldn't help but scream-laugh as water sprayed up on either side of the log.

When we hit the bottom of the drop, a massive splash erupted, drenching us both even further. The cold water was shocking but refreshing, and I couldn't stop laughing. Monty turned to me, water dripping from his mohawk.

"Now you're really wet," he teased, shaking his head to spray water everywhere like a dog.

"Stop!" I tried shielding my face, but it was no use. "You're worse than the ride!"

We both dissolved into laughter as the log floated lazily through the next section of the ride. The track wove through a series of tunnels, dimly lit with flickering pirate lanterns and the occasional animatronic pirate popping out with a hearty "Yo-ho-ho!"

Ahead of us, I could see Foxy's log car floating out of one of the tunnels. Ryan and Reagan's laughter echoed back toward us, blending with Foxy's exaggerated pirate accent.

"Ahoy there, mates! What took ye so long?" Foxy called, his voice carrying over the water.

"Had to make sure Elijah got the full soaking experience," Monty shot back, earning a giggle from the twins.

I groaned playfully. "I'll get you back for this, Monty. Just wait."

The ride was almost over, but as we drifted toward the unloading dock, something caught my eye. Near the exit, tucked behind a faux treasure chest, was a dimly lit maintenance hatch. It was on the official ride map, but the fact that it was open made my stomach twist uneasily.

I nudged Monty and pointed toward it. "Hey, did you know that maintenance area hatch was open?"

Monty frowned, his playful demeanor fading slightly. "No, looks kinda outta place with it open, don't it?"

"Yeah," I murmured, unable to shake the feeling that it didn't belong open.

As we stepped off the ride and regrouped with Foxy and the twins, I made a mental note to ask Scarlett or Scott about it later. For now, I focused on Ryan and Reagan's excited chatter about the ride, their energy contagious enough to temporarily push my unease to the back of my mind.

On the way to the next attraction, we stopped at one of the animatronic-friendly drying stations. These were massive, futuristic-looking contraptions designed to dry both guests and animatronics after rides like Foxy's Log Flume. The kids giggled as the warm air blew their hair wildly, while Foxy made a dramatic show of his fur being "combed" by the high-powered air.

"Blimey! I'm feelin' like a proper pirate pup again!" Foxy quipped, flexing his metal arm.

Ryan and Reagan burst out laughing. "You looked like a soggy mop before!" Reagan teased, pointing at him.

"A mop, ye say? Watch yer tongue, lassie, or I'll have to swab the deck with ye!" Foxy replied, his hook hand raised menacingly, though the playful glint in his eye betrayed his jest.

Monty chuckled but leaned closer to me as the group carried on. His arm brushed against mine, and before I knew it, he slipped it around my waist, pulling me closer. It wasn't much—just a subtle gesture—but it was enough to make my heart flutter.

"You alright?" Monty asked softly, his tone free of his usual teasing.

"Yeah," I replied, leaning into him slightly as we walked side by side. "Just... that hatch. Something about it feels off."

Monty gave my waist a comforting squeeze. "Don't worry, we'll keep an eye on it later. For now, let's enjoy the day, yeah?"

Reluctantly, I nodded, letting his warmth ground me.

When we reached the Superstar Bumper Cars attraction, I had to let go of Monty as Gregory came sprinting toward me, his face lit up with excitement.

"Elijah!" Gregory beamed, practically launching himself at me. I caught him with ease, lifting him up into a hug.

"How was it, buddy?" I asked, smiling down at him.

"It was awesome!" Gregory exclaimed. "The cars light up, and there's music, and Roxy kept spinning out!"

"I let him win," Roxy grumbled as she joined us, though her smirk suggested otherwise.

Freddy, Bonnie, and Chica followed, all looking equally pleased. Freddy's calm voice carried over the group. "It's a fine addition to the Pizzaplex. Guests will love it."

"Yeah, it was fun," Bonnie added, giving a thumbs up. "Even Roxy's spinouts."

"Ha-ha, very funny," Roxy shot back, rolling her eyes.

Scarlett waved from nearby, already corralling Ryan and Reagan toward the car. "Alright, everyone, let's get going! The Pizzaplex is about to open."

The kids gave their enthusiastic goodbyes to all the animatronics, while I stood off to the side, watching Gregory hug Freddy and Foxy one last time. The sight warmed my heart. These animatronics weren't just attractions—they were family.

After the others returned to their green rooms, Monty lingered behind with me. The moment the coast was clear, he stepped closer, his hands resting on my waist as his eyes locked with mine.

"Gonna miss me?" he teased, but his tone held a softness that made my chest tighten.

"Always," I replied, pulling him closer until our lips met in a heated kiss.

His hands slid up my back, pulling me flush against him. For a moment, the world melted away, and it was just us. But as much as I wanted to stay there forever, I reluctantly broke the kiss, glancing at my watch.

"I gotta go," I said breathlessly, my forehead resting against his.

Monty grinned, his golden eyes glinting. "You better make it up to me later."

I smirked. "Oh, I will. And tell the others to meet us at The Mangled Web later tonight."

He raised an eyebrow. "A karaoke bar? You sure about that?"

I laughed. "Trust me, it'll be fun. Just make sure you're there."

With one last kiss, I stepped back, giving him a wave before heading out to rejoin Scarlett and the kids. As I walked away, I could still feel Monty's lingering warmth, a promise of more to come later.


When the clock had struck 11 PM, I had re-entered the Pizzaplex. In the lobby, I heard guests left and right praise the new attractions.

"The bumper cars were so awesome!" I heard a boy exclaim to his parents. They laughed at his excitement as they left the building.

"Foxy's Log Flume was so much fun!" I heard a teen tell her friend group as they were heading down the stairs. Her friends started agreeing with her.

I'm so glad Scott added these to the Pizzaplex. It'll be a great refresher to the place. I thought to myself with a smile.

Making my way up to the Atrium while trying to avoid the remaining guests in the building, I saw Monty waiting for me by the elevators. It made me giggle in my head, though, because he was impatiently walking back and forth.

"You miss me, big guy?" I chuckled while crossing my arms. My sudden presence made Monty jump a bit.

Monty regained his composure, smirked, and bowed like a gentleman, "Why of course, princess".

I burst out laughing, his playful charm always catching me off guard.

"You're such a dork," I said, stepping closer to him.

"Yeah, but I'm your dork," Monty shot back, straightening up and giving me a crooked grin.

I rolled my eyes, but my smile betrayed me. "Ready to head to The Mangled Web?"

Monty nodded, offering me his arm dramatically. "After you, milady."

I playfully swatted his arm before we stepped into the elevator together. As the doors closed, I felt a rush of excitement. Tonight wasn't just about work or responsibilities—it was about having fun and unwinding.

The ride up to the Fazcade's lower floor was quiet, save for the faint music playing from the speakers. Monty's hand brushed against mine, and I took it without hesitation.

When we arrived, the lights of The Mangled Web greeted us with a vibrant glow. The bar and karaoke spot was decked out in neon purples and blues, with spiderweb-like patterns projected across the walls. The hum of chatter and the sound of a particularly enthusiastic karaoke performance filled the air.

The other animatronics were already gathered near a cluster of booths by the stage. Freddy waved us over, his welcoming smile as warm as ever. Roxy was sipping what looked like a sparkling drink, while Chica was busy scanning the karaoke catalog. Bonnie leaned casually against the booth, nodding his head to the beat of the current song.

"Finally!" Roxy teased as we approached. "I was starting to think you two were gonna ditch us."

"Never," I said, sliding into the booth next to Freddy. Monty followed, taking the seat beside me and draping an arm over the back of the booth.

Monty slid a drink across the table toward me. The glass was pink, frosty, and garnished with a slice of strawberry.

"I told you, I'm on the clock," I protested for the third time that night.

"Loosen up, princess," Monty drawled, smirking as he sipped his old-fashioned. The amber liquid swirled in the glass, catching the light. "One drink won't kill ya. Besides, I made it special for you."

Roxy leaned back in her seat, arms crossed. "Don't be such a buzzkill, Elijah. It's just one night."

"Yeah, live a little!" Bonnie chimed in, raising his own glass.

With a sigh, I gave in, taking a tentative sip of the margarita. The sweet and tangy flavor hit my tongue, the chill of the ice making me shiver slightly.

"There you go," Monty said with a grin, leaning back and looking far too pleased with himself.

"So, what's the plan?" Chica asked, her eyes gleaming with excitement.

"Karaoke, obviously," Monty said with a smirk, giving me a pointed look. "And I think Elijah should go first."

I groaned, already regretting this. "Oh no, no, no. I'm not—"

"Come on!" Roxy interrupted. "You can't drag us all here and then not sing."

"She's got a point, superstar," Freddy chimed in, his grin widening.

Monty leaned in closer, his voice low and teasing. "Princess, you're not chicken, are ya?"

I glared at him, knowing he was baiting me. "Fine. One song. But if I go, you're going next."

"Deal," Monty said, grinning like he'd already won.

After a bit more coaxing—and admittedly enjoying the drink more than I wanted to admit—I found myself on stage with a microphone in hand. The intro to Obvious by Ariana Grande began to play, and I shot Monty a glare.

"Don't think I won't get you back for this," I said into the mic before starting to sing.

As the song went on, my nerves melted away. The words flowed out easily, and by the time I hit the chorus, I was actually enjoying myself. When the song ended, I was met with cheers and applause, Monty's being the loudest.

"Not bad, princess!" he called as I stepped off the stage, my face warm from both the performance and the drink.

"My turn," Monty announced, standing up and adjusting his shades.

He chose I Need Your Love by Blxst, and as soon as the beat dropped, I found myself completely mesmerized. Monty moved with a smooth confidence that was impossible to ignore, his deep voice filling the room effortlessly. Every now and then, he'd glance my way with a sly smirk, and I felt my face flush even more.

Maybe it was the second margarita, or maybe it was just Monty, but I couldn't tear my eyes away. Tread carefully, I warned myself silently, but it was getting harder to listen.

By the time he finished, the room erupted into cheers. I clapped along with the others, trying to play it cool despite the fact that my heart was pounding.

A few more rounds of karaoke followed, with everyone taking turns and the drinks flowing freely. It was a night of laughter and music, and for a while, I forgot about everything else.

Eventually, Monty and I decided to head back to his green room. The energy between us had been crackling all night, and as soon as we stepped into the quieter hallways of the Pizzaplex, it felt even more electric.

"I gotta hit the bathroom first," I said, pulling away reluctantly as we passed the restrooms.

Monty leaned against the wall outside, his arms crossed. "Hurry up. I ain't got all night."

I chuckled, shaking my head as I pushed open the door to the men's room.

Inside, it was quiet and sterile. I quickly did my business, the alcohol making my movements slightly unsteady. As I washed my hands, the sound of something shifting above me made me pause.

"Hello?" I called out, my voice echoing slightly in the empty room.

Before I could even process what was happening, a figure dropped down from the ceiling tiles like some kind of deranged ninja.

"Damien?!" I yelped, stumbling back against the sink.

"Good evening," Damien said casually, brushing off imaginary dust from his clothes. His eerie grin sent a chill down my spine.

"What the fuck are you doing here?" I snapped, my voice a mix of confusion and irritation.

Damien tilted his head, his grin widening. "I was looking for your friend. The one from the Christmas party. Benji, was it?"

My heart sank. "Why do you need him?"

Damien's grin didn't falter. "That's none of your concern. Where is he?"

"He's not here," I said firmly, forcing myself to stand tall despite the nervous energy thrumming through me. "He's at the other location, the pizzeria across town."

Damien's eyes narrowed slightly as if assessing whether I was telling the truth. Then, without another word, he leaped back up into the ceiling tiles, disappearing as quickly as he had arrived.

I stood there for a moment, stunned and slightly tipsy, my reflection in the mirror looking just as bewildered as I felt.

"What the hell is my life," I muttered, running a hand through my hair before drying my hands and stepping out of the bathroom.

Monty raised an eyebrow at me. "You good? You look like you've seen a ghost."

"Something like that," I said, forcing a smile. "Let's just get to your green room."

Monty didn't push further, but his eyes lingered on me as we walked, his arm brushing against mine in a quiet gesture of reassurance. Whatever the hell Damien wanted, I'd have to figure it out later. For now, I was focusing on the heavy make-out session I'd been looking forward to all night.