Echoes of Redemption

Ch. 15 – EBT Card, HIM's Fake Birthday Party

Kelsey Glennon, Snake's girlfriend, had first met him during freshman orientation at Sanford University in August 2022. Originally from Salt Lake City, Utah, Kelsey had been captivated by Snake's intelligence and dry sense of humor. Their connection deepened over their shared love of reading, bonding over everything from graphic novels to obscure classics. Over the next two years, her admiration for Snake's personality and resilience grew stronger, especially as she helped him adjust to life after leaving the Gangreen Gang and his former villainous ways. On November 1, 2022, they officially became a couple, a milestone that marked the beginning of a new chapter in both of their lives.

Today, Kelsey dressed casually yet stylishly, a blend of comfort and personal flair. She wore a white Lilith New York top from Brandy Melville, paired with thrifted bootcut jeans that had a nostalgic 90s vibe. Her red Adidas Campus 00s sneakers added a pop of color to the outfit, while her red thrifted bag gave it a quirky, vintage touch. Her blonde hair cascaded in loose, effortless waves around her shoulders, adding to the relaxed yet fashionable look. As she stepped out of the Uber and walked towards the Utonium house, her heart skipped a beat, a nervous flutter she couldn't shake as she rang the doorbell, anticipating what would come next.

Inside the Utonium household, the doorbell rang, piercing the tense silence like a sudden gasp. Professor Utonium, still standing by the laptop with HIM's mocking face frozen on the screen, felt a surge of anxiety. Who could be arriving at this hour?

"Wait," he said, glancing over his shoulder at the others in the room. His voice was steady, but there was a hint of unease. "Stay here. I'll see who it is."

He opened the door cautiously, his expression softening slightly when he saw the young woman standing in front of him. There she was—Kelsey Glennon, Snake's girlfriend.

Kelsey smiled warmly, though there was a hint of uncertainty in her eyes as she stood on the threshold. "Hi," she said, her voice steady despite the rush of nerves. "I'm Kelsey Glennon, Snake's girlfriend."

Professor Utonium blinked for a moment, processing the unexpected visitor. He hadn't been expecting anyone, let alone someone so closely connected to Snake. But after a brief moment, he composed himself and gave a polite nod.

"Ah, yes," he said, stepping aside to let her in. "Please, come in. Snake's inside."

Kelsey stepped in, her shoes squeaking softly on the floor as she glanced around the room, noticing the tension in the air. Something was definitely off, but she quickly reminded herself why she was here—Snake, and whatever was going on with HIM.

"Is everything okay?" she asked, her brow furrowing slightly. "I didn't expect you all to be so... serious."

Professor Utonium hesitated before answering. "We're dealing with something bigger than we anticipated. But I'm sure Snake will be happy to see you." He led her further into the room where the others were gathered, his mind still running over the unexpected surprise of Kelsey's arrival.

Kelsey's face lit up as she spotted Snake across the room. Her excitement was unmistakable. "San!" she called out, her voice bright with joy. Without hesitation, she ran towards him, her arms opening wide.

She reached him in seconds, wrapping him in a tight embrace. "How I've missed you these past few days!" she murmured, her voice tinged with affection. "My parents and I flew all the way from Utah to Virginia just to see you for your birthday weekend!"

Snake's eyes widened in surprise, the corners of his lips curving into a smile. He wasn't expecting Kelsey, especially not in the middle of all this tension. He hugged her back, feeling a rush of warmth. "You... you really came all thisss way?" he asked, his voice thick with emotion.

Kelsey pulled back slightly, grinning at him. "Of course I did," she replied, brushing a stray strand of blonde hair behind her ear. "I couldn't let you celebrate your birthday without me, especially after everything you've been through."

Snake's heart softened at her words. Her presence, her warmth, was a stark contrast to the cold, calculated world they were trying to navigate. It was a reminder that no matter the chaos around them, there was still something real between them. Something worth fighting for.

Snake smiled warmly as he gently kissed Kelsey on the cheek, a tender moment that spoke volumes amidst the tension of the day. He turned to her, his eyes soft. "Come on, I want you to meet everyone."

Kelsey's heart fluttered at the gesture, feeling a rush of affection for Snake, knowing how important his friends were to him. Together, they walked over to the group, who were gathered nearby, waiting for introductions.

Snake cleared his throat and gestured to his friends. "Guys, thisss isss Kelsssey—my girlfriend." His voice carried a mixture of pride and affection. "We met at Ssstanford Universssity in California, during fressshman orientation in 2022. Over the past two yearsss, her admiration for my persssonality deepened, and our bond just grew ssstronger."

The group of former villains-turned-allies turned their attention toward Kelsey, their eyes filled with curiosity and approval.

Ace gave her a nod of acknowledgment, a slight smile on his lips. "Nice to meet you, Kelsey. Snake doesn't usually talk about many people like that."

Claire crossed her arms but added a welcoming smile. "Welcome to the chaos," she said, her tone light but laced with genuine warmth.

Amanda raised an eyebrow but gave a soft chuckle. "Snake's got himself a keeper, huh? Nice to meet you."

Jojo, always with a grin on his face, extended his hand with a playful wink. "So you're the one who managed to tame this guy? Impressive."

Blossom, who had been quietly observing, offered a genuine smile. "Glad you're here, Kelsey. Snake's lucky to have you."

Bubbles stepped forward, her eyes sparkling. "It's so nice to meet you! You're going to love it here, we're like one big, dysfunctional family."

Buttercup, always the no-nonsense type, gave Kelsey a brief but firm handshake. "Welcome to the team, Kelsey. Hope you can handle the craziness."

Kelsey smiled warmly at each of them, feeling a little overwhelmed by the friendly reception, but it was clear Snake had found a real support system in these people. "It's great to meet all of you," she said, her voice steady. "I'm excited to get to know everyone better."

Snake stood by her side, his arm casually slung over her shoulder. "You're going to fit in jussst fine. Trust me, this group might be wild, but they've got my back—and now, yoursss too."

Kelsey's heart swelled at his words. She'd never expected her journey with Snake to lead her here, but in this moment, with Snake by her side and surrounded by his closest friends, she felt more certain than ever that she was exactly where she was meant to be.

Kelsey's curiosity piqued as she noticed the tension in the room, her eyes drifting to the laptop on the table, where HIM's mocking face was frozen on the screen. She tilted her head, a bit confused by the serious atmosphere.

"What are all of you doing with the laptop? The devil?" she asked, her voice light but tinged with concern.

The room fell a bit quieter as the group exchanged knowing glances, the weight of the situation settling in. Snake's expression shifted, the playful tone he had with her moments ago now replaced with a more serious demeanor.

Ace was the first to respond, his voice cool but firm. "Yeah, that's HIM. We've been dealing with him for a while now. He's... well, let's just say he's been a thorn in our side for far too long."

Claire crossed her arms, looking at Kelsey with a mix of determination and caution. "HIM's been causing a lot of problems. We've been planning to deal with him once and for all."

Kelsey raised an eyebrow, her concern growing. "Wait, the HIM? The one who's been terrorizing all of you?" She glanced at Snake, who nodded in confirmation, his jaw set.

"Yeah," Snake said, his tone tight. "We're done letting him play usss. We're finally going to put an end to thisss."

Jojo leaned in, his usual playful grin replaced with a rare seriousness. "This laptop is part of the plan. We're about to throw HIM off balance, and we've been strategizing how to do it."

Bubbles added with a soft smile, trying to ease Kelsey's worry. "It's okay, Kelsey. We've got it under control. We just need to make sure HIM doesn't see it coming."

Buttercup, ever the blunt one, cut in with a sharp edge in her voice. "We've been playing HIM's game for too long. Now it's time to turn the tables."

Kelsey nodded slowly, processing the gravity of the situation. "I see. I didn't realize things had gotten this intense."

Snake reached out, taking her hand in his and giving her a reassuring squeeze. "You don't have to worry. We've got thisss. And now that you're here, you're part of the plan too. We're in thisss together."

Kelsey gave him a small smile, squeezing his hand back. "I know you're strong, Snake. But I'll be here to help however I can."

Professor Utonium, who had been silently observing the conversation, finally spoke. "We're going to need all the support we can get. HIM's manipulative, and this time, we can't afford to make mistakes."

The group turned their attention back to the laptop, the stakes higher than ever. Kelsey could sense the urgency in the air, but also the camaraderie among this unlikely team of friends. They had come a long way from their villainous pasts, and now they were ready to face HIM head-on.

"We'll handle HIM," Ace said, his voice unwavering. "And with you here, Kelsey, we're even stronger."

Kelsey felt a rush of pride and a deep sense of belonging. This was more than just Snake's fight—it was now their fight.

Kelsey smiled, her curiosity piqued as she gently squeezed Snake's hand. "San told me I should come to his birthday party at Lil' Arturo's apartment tomorrow night. What's the theme? I need to know what I'm working with!"

Snake grinned, a mischievous glint in his eyes as he looked around at the group, his tone playful but with a hint of excitement. "Well, it's a bit of a mix. We're doing a throwback to the early 2000sss. Think classic denim, oversized hoodiesss, and sneakersss. The vibe is retro, but still cool, ya know? It's all about good timesss and nostalgia."

Kelsey's eyes lit up at the idea. "Oh, I love that! I can totally work with that." She glanced at Snake, a little grin tugging at her lips. "Do I need to show up in a low-rise jean and a crop top to really nail the look?"

Snake chuckled, clearly amused. "If you've got it, definitely rock it."

Kelsey laughed, feeling even more excited about the party now that she knew what to expect. "This is going to be so much fun. I can't wait to see everyone dressed up and ready to party."

Ace, always quick to add his two cents, smirked. "Make sure you bring your best 2000s swagger. We'll need to represent that era in style."

Kelsey playfully rolled her eyes. "Don't worry, I'll bring the fashion and the energy." She turned back to Snake, her smile softening. "I'm really looking forward to it. It sounds like it's going to be a blast."

Snake pulled her close for a moment, his expression full of affection. "Trussst me, it's going to be legendary. And I'm glad you'll be there to make it even better."

Kelsey's eyes sparkled with excitement as she turned to Snake, a playful grin on her face. "Let's go shopping at the thrift store soon! I need to find the perfect outfit for this 2000s throwback. You know I love digging through those racks for hidden gems."

Snake raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued by the idea. "You know, I can't resissst a good thrift store run. You find the best stuff there. You're on—let's make it a date!"

Blossom, overhearing the conversation, chimed in with a smile. "Thrift shopping for the win. You'd be surprised how many cool pieces you can find. And the best part? It's totally unique, just like you guys."

Kelsey laughed, nodding enthusiastically. "Exactly! It's all about finding something that no one else will have. Plus, it's fun to see what you can uncover."

Jojo, who had been scrolling through his phone, looked up with a grin. "I'm starting to think I need to join in on this thrifting adventure. Get some good 2000s vibes myself."

Kelsey gave him a teasing look. "Oh, trust me, you'd find some good stuff. But let's be real, I'm probably going to end up with all the best finds."

Snake chuckled, clearly enjoying the playful back-and-forth. "Looksss like we've got ourselvesss a little shopping trip planned. Alright, Kelsssey, let's see what treasures we can dig up."

Kelsey grinned, feeling a wave of excitement. "It's going to be epic. I'll make sure to find the most iconic 2000s piece I can. And who knows, maybe I'll find something perfect for your birthday party."

With a quick glance at Snake, she added, "I'll text you when I'm ready to go, so we can make a day of it."

The group laughed, already anticipating the fun ahead. It seemed like a perfect way to add an extra layer of excitement to Snake's birthday weekend.

That evening, the group had been eagerly looking forward to their usual therapy session, but at the last minute, Rob had to cancel due to a sudden family emergency. Rather than let the setback spoil their plans, Jojo, Claire, Amanda, Ace, and Snake quickly pivoted, deciding to turn the night into an impromptu sleepover at the Utonium household after going thrifting with Kelsey. It was their first since abandoning their villainous pasts, a chance to kick back, relax, and, for a few hours at least, pretend that everything was simpler and carefree again.

Jojo's bedroom, cozy and full of personality, felt like a step back in time. The light wooden paneling on the walls, likely from the late '60s or early '70s, gave the room a nostalgic, retro charm as though it had been preserved in amber. LED strip lights traced the ceiling, casting a soft, magical glow that made the room feel warm and comforting. It was the perfect setting for everyone to settle in, surrounded by snacks and drinks, each person claiming their corner to relax in.

The TV played an episode of Friends on Jojo's flat-screen, the familiar laugh track blending with the sounds of cans of Diet Coke, Zero Sugar Coca-Cola, Vanilla Coca-Cola, a giant bowl of popcorn, Goldfish crackers, gluten-free Oreos (for Ace, naturally), and a bag of M being passed around. It was a junk-food paradise, and no one was complaining.

Buttercup, dressed in a green tee shirt and black/white plaid pajama pants while playing Pokemon on her Nintendo Switch and drinking Sprite.

Claire, in her favorite navy blue "Virginia" tee, paired with faded Victoria's Secret PINK sweatpants and knockoff Ugg slippers, sat cross-legged on the floor, focused on braiding Amanda's long hair. Claire's blonde locks were messily gathered into a bun, giving her a laid-back, effortlessly chic vibe. Amanda, on the other hand, wore a navy blue oversized long-sleeve tee, checkered flannel pants, and chestnut Ugg slippers, looking equally cozy and content. Bubbles, dressed in blue/white Cat & Jack printed short sleeve pajama top and pajama shorts while braiding Amanda's hair.

Ace lounged on Jojo's bed, wrapped in a gray hoodie emblazoned with "POTOMAC BASEBALL" and "COPULAR" on the back, paired with black-and-white checkered pajama pants. He lazily puffed on his Juul, a cloud of vapor hanging in the air. Snake, seated across from him, wore a black Stanford Cardinal sweatshirt and red-and-white pajama pants, quietly vaping as thin tendrils of smoke spiraled upward in the dim light. Kelsey, dressed in a white cami cropped top and navy blue/white plaid pajamas pants, was vaping with Snake and Ace.

Blossom, dressed in pink Ribbed Lettuce-Edge Pajama Top and Shorts Set, was trying to strategize the plans for HIM's Fake Birthday Party.

Jojo, ever the oddball, was sprawled out in a red "RON JON SURF SHOP 'ONE OF A KIND' Cocoa Beach, Fla." shirt and red-and-white plaid pajama pants. As usual, he looked quirky and casual, absentmindedly sucking his thumb—a habit no one commented on but had all grown accustomed to.

Blossom walked into the room carrying a whiteboard, a determined look on her face. "Alright, everyone! Let's strategize. We've got HIM's fake birthday party at Chuck E. Cheese this Saturday, and we need to nail this."

The group shifted their attention toward her, the usual casual atmosphere now replaced with focused energy. Blossom set the whiteboard down in front of them, grabbing a marker as she prepared to outline the plan.

"First things first," she continued, "we need to make sure HIM thinks this is the real deal. We're going to throw him off with a party that's as big and ridiculous as possible. Think neon lights, over-the-top decorations, and a guest list full of... distractions."

Blossom stood before the group, marker in hand and determination in her eyes. "Alright, listen up, everyone! It's only two days away from HIM's fake birthday party, and we have the party agenda. Ace, Buttercup, and Amanda, you're in charge of the shopping. Head over to Harris Teeter at Westpost in National Landing, Arlington."

She glanced down at her notes before continuing, her voice calm but commanding. "We need a Devil's Chocolate Cake Mix. You can choose between Betty Crocker, Duncan Hines, or Pillsbury. I trust you three to get the best one, and make sure we get enough supplies to make this cake perfect. HIM's gonna be expecting a big deal, and we can't disappoint."

Buttercup raised an eyebrow. "You want us to go all the way to Arlington just for cake mix?"

Blossom nodded, the strategic mind behind her gaze unwavering. "It's not just about the cake mix. We're building an illusion, Buttercup. HIM needs to think we're going all out for his 'special day.' Get some extra party stuff too—candles, icing, maybe a few ridiculous party hats. You know, something over the top, in true HIM fashion."

Amanda chuckled, leaning back against the couch. "I like the sound of that. Over-the-top cake and cheesy decorations—this is gonna be great."

Blossom smiled, pleased with their response. "Exactly. We're turning HIM's fake birthday into a spectacle. Once that's sorted, we'll need the rest of the team for the bigger operation. But first—Ace, Buttercup, Amanda—get to the store and make sure everything screams 'celebration.' It's crucial we nail this. HIM can't suspect a thing."

Ace gave a lazy thumbs-up, clearly amused. "Got it, boss. Cake mix, party hats, and total chaos. What could go wrong?"

Blossom shot him a deadpan look. "Everything, Ace. Everything could go wrong. But I have faith in you. Now go, and don't forget—it's all about the details."

The trio nodded and started to head out, their excitement rising as they began to plan the perfect party mishap. Meanwhile, Blossom turned to the rest of the group, making sure everyone knew their next steps.

"While they're out, we'll get the rest of the plan together," Blossom continued. "Snake, Kelsey, Jojo—you're in charge of securing the party venue and getting the 'special guests' on board. Make sure it's all ready to roll."

As everyone split into their designated teams, the atmosphere became charged with anticipation. The fake birthday party was quickly becoming a well-oiled machine, and no one was backing down from the challenge. There was no room for error—HIM would never know what hit him.

Ace stood up, a scowl crossing his face as he crossed his arms. "Look, I'm gonna be real with you guys," he said, his voice tinged with frustration. "I don't have any money. Murdoc cut my debit card. Took the money right out of my account. I don't have cash, a credit card, or even an EBT card. I'm completely tapped."

The room went quiet for a moment as the others processed his words. Buttercup rolled her eyes. "Seriously? What kind of mess is that?"

Ace sighed, slumping back into his seat. "Yeah, well, that's what happens when you mess with Murdoc. He doesn't know the meaning of 'fair game.'"

Blossom didn't miss a beat. She was always the strategist, always ready with a backup plan. "Alright, Ace. No worries. We'll figure something out. You're not out of the game just because of a little financial hiccup."

Snake, who had been listening intently, looked up at Ace. "I've got you covered, man. We'll work out a way to get the ssstuff we need. You've got a part in this plan, and we're not leaving anyone behind."

Kelsey, standing beside Snake, nodded in agreement. "Yeah, we'll make it work. It's a team effort, right? Don't stress about the money, Ace. We'll figure out something—maybe some... creative solutions."

Blossom took a deep breath and shifted into problem-solving mode. "Okay, so here's the deal. Ace, I need you to focus on what you can do. There's no time to waste, and we need to keep HIM guessing. We'll handle the financial stuff." She turned to the group. "I'll coordinate with the others on getting what we need. We'll split the costs."

Ace let out a short laugh, a bit of his usual cocky attitude creeping back into his voice. "Well, as long as someone's footing the bill. I guess I'll take care of... the fun part. You know, the chaos. You don't have to worry about me being useful."

Blossom flashed him a knowing look. "You're useful, Ace. In more ways than you think. Just keep your head in the game."

The group quickly rallied around the new plan, confident that no financial setback could stop them now. Ace might not have the cash, but they had something more valuable—teamwork.

Blossom's eyes scanned the room as she laid out the next part of the plan. She grabbed a marker and scribbled a few notes on the whiteboard before turning to Snake, Kelsey, and Bubbles.

"For you three," she began, "I need you to head to Dollar Tree or Target and pick up the small party supplies. We're talking streamers, balloons, plates, cups, anything that screams over-the-top birthday party chaos. Go for the brightest, tackiest stuff you can find. HIM won't know what hit him." She paused, locking eyes with each of them. "And remember, we want everything to look ridiculous, but still believable. Make HIM think we actually care about this party."

Snake grinned at her, already imagining the chaos they would cause. "Bright, tacky, and over-the-top? I think I can handle that," he said, flashing a mischievous smile.

Kelsey, who had been quietly listening, nodded. "I'm all in. The more ridiculous, the better. Let's make this party look like a mess that only HIM could love."

Bubbles bounced on her heels, excited by the idea. "This is going to be so fun! I've got so many ideas for the decorations. Let's get some glitter and confetti! HIM won't be able to escape the sparkle."

Blossom gave them a satisfied nod. "Perfect. Grab anything that will make the place look like a disaster zone—balloons, streamers, tacky banners. Don't hold back. We're going big, or HIM's going to suspect something. Let's make sure this is the most ridiculous fake birthday party anyone has ever thrown."

With the plan in motion, Snake, Kelsey, and Bubbles set off on their shopping mission, already brainstorming how to make the most of their time at Dollar Tree and Target. It was all about creating the most absurd, over-the-top party supplies to keep HIM on his toes.

Kelsey glanced at Snake with a playful grin, her eyes twinkling with a hint of mischief. "San has his platinum American Express card," she said, emphasizing the 'platinum' with a wink. "I'm sure we can use that for anything extra we might need—maybe a few more supplies or some... premium snacks, if you know what I mean."

Snake raised an eyebrow, clearly amused by the suggestion. "You sssure about that? I don't think we want HIM thinking we're sssplurging on fancy ssstuff for his fake birthday," he replied, a smirk tugging at the corners of his mouth.

Kelsey shrugged nonchalantly, her tone lighthearted. "Hey, HIM would totally believe we'd go all out for a ridiculous party, especially if we throw in some over-the-top treats, right? Maybe a few extra bags of fancy chips or, I don't know, something a little more extravagant than usual. We'll keep it on the down-low, I promise."

Blossom, overhearing their exchange, shot them a quick look. "As long as you don't go too crazy with it. Keep it subtle, but if you're going to use the platinum card, at least make it look like we're still being cheap."

Kelsey nodded enthusiastically. "Don't worry, Blossom. We'll find a balance between ridiculous and tasteful." She turned to Snake with a grin. "And maybe we can grab a few things that will make HIM think we really care about this birthday... just to keep him off the trail."

Snake chuckled, shaking his head. "Alright, alright. I'll ssswipe the card if we really need it. But no going overboard—let's not make this too luxuriousss."

The group laughed, already picturing the chaos they were about to create, knowing that with Kelsey's suggestion, they could pull off the most absurd birthday party imaginable while staying under the radar.

Blossom quickly shifted into full planning mode as she addressed the group, her voice steady and focused. "Since Arturo, Big Billy, Grubber, and Fuzzy Lumpkins aren't here, we need to make sure we still have everything covered," she said, drawing attention to the tasks at hand.

She turned to Bubbles with a bright, determined look. "Bubbles, I need you to fly to Fuzzy Lumpkins's cabin and ask him if he can entertain us with his banjo. We need something distinctive for this fake birthday party, and Fuzzy's banjo skills will definitely throw HIM off the scent. Besides, a banjo is always a wild card."

Bubbles' eyes lit up, her enthusiasm bubbling over. "Ooh, I love that idea! I'll make sure he brings his A-game with that banjo. I'm sure HIM won't know what hit him!" she said, already imagining the chaos of Fuzzy's banjo music filling the air.

Blossom nodded approvingly before continuing, turning to the others. "For Grubber, he'll play the violin. It's unexpected and a bit out of left field—just the kind of thing to throw HIM off. I'll reach out to him and make sure he's ready to bring some dramatic flair to the event."

Next, she looked at Arturo's role. "Arturo will handle the cooking and baking, as always. He's got that secret touch with food that always knocks it out of the park. We're going to need him to bake a cake—and not just any cake, a Devil's Chocolate Cake. I'll assist him with Antidote X, of course. It'll be perfect to counter any of HIM's tricks."

Snake, who had been listening intently, leaned in with a grin. "And Arturo's cake? It's going to be delicious... right? Because HIM's going to be expecting something weird and gross, but if we make it the best cake ever, it'll throw him off for sure."

Blossom smiled, giving a quick nod. "Absolutely. It's all about balancing the absurdity with just enough genuine effort to keep HIM on his toes. A devilishly good cake will be the perfect touch."

Kelsey, clearly on board, gave a thumbs-up. "I like this plan. A little music, a little cake, and a whole lot of chaos. We've got this."

Blossom's gaze swept across the group, making sure everyone was clear on their roles. "Alright, let's get moving. Bubbles, you're off to Fuzzy's cabin. I'll get in touch with Grubber, and Arturo and I will handle the baking. The rest of you, get those supplies, and let's make sure HIM has no idea what's coming."

The team was already starting to fall into rhythm, excited by the absurdity of it all. They all knew one thing: with this many twists, HIM wouldn't stand a chance.

Blossom turned to Jojo with a focused expression, her voice sharp with purpose. "Jojo, for you, I need you to hack HIM's data. We need to gather every bit of intel on him we can, especially any vulnerabilities or weaknesses we can exploit during the fake birthday party."

Jojo, lounging casually with his phone in hand, looked up, his trademark grin spreading across his face. "You got it, Blossom. I'll dive into HIS systems like a pro." He cracked his knuckles with exaggerated flair, clearly excited by the task ahead. "No firewalls, no encryption, no problem. HIM won't know what hit him."

Blossom raised an eyebrow. "Just make sure we get the right information, Jojo. We need details that'll help us throw HIM off the scent—anything from his plans to his personal weaknesses. We're not just throwing a party; we're setting a trap."

Jojo gave a mock salute, his grin widening. "Got it, boss. I'll make HIM's data look like a digital buffet. By the time I'm done, he won't be able to tell his own code from a spaghetti mess."

Ace, overhearing the conversation, chuckled. "You're always good with tech, Jojo. Just don't actually fry HIM's brain. We need him for the party."

Jojo shot a playful look at Ace. "Don't worry, I'm just gonna mess with his head a little. It'll be fun. Plus, what's a party without a little digital sabotage?"

Blossom nodded, satisfied with Jojo's confidence. "Exactly. We're making HIM think everything's perfectly normal while we set up the perfect distraction. Make sure to leave some breadcrumbs in the system—let HIM believe we're all about the celebration."

Jojo's fingers flew over his phone. "I'm already on it. Let's see what secrets I can dig up."

Blossom turned back to the group, a sense of determination in her voice. "Alright, everyone, let's get to it. The clock's ticking, and we need this party to be so outlandish that HIM doesn't stand a chance. We'll make sure he's distracted with everything but the truth."

With that, the team set off to execute their plans, each person ready to contribute their part to the most chaotic, brilliantly orchestrated fake birthday party ever.

Buttercup, who had been silently processing the plan, suddenly chimed in with an idea. "Hey, what if we get HIM a present? Something totally unexpected that'll throw him off even more." She paused for dramatic effect, a mischievous grin spreading across her face. "How about an old VHS of hockey from Professor Utonium's dad? It's the kind of thing HIM would never see coming. He's gonna be so confused."

The room went quiet for a second as the group processed Buttercup's suggestion. It was a strange but brilliant idea, the kind of curveball that would make HIM question everything.

Blossom raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Hockey? You think HIM would fall for that? It's totally random, but that's what makes it work. He's probably expecting something over-the-top dramatic, and we give him an old-school sports tape?"

Buttercup shrugged, a confident smirk on her face. "Exactly. It's unexpected, it's personal to Professor Utonium's family, and it's just ridiculous enough to make HIM doubt everything going on. Plus, if HIM thinks we're that casual about the whole thing, he'll let his guard down."

Professor Utonium, who had been quietly observing the conversation, raised his hand slightly, clearly intrigued. "Well... my father does have quite a collection of old VHS tapes in the attic. Some of them are hockey games from the '80s, back when the sport was all about grit and... let's just say, aggressive plays."

Jojo, never one to miss out on a good idea, jumped in with excitement. "That's gold! It's so absurd, HIM won't know whether to be offended or confused. I love it."

Blossom nodded thoughtfully. "Alright, then it's settled. We'll get HIM the most random, out-of-nowhere present ever. A vintage hockey VHS tape, courtesy of Professor Utonium's dad. It'll be the perfect touch to make HIM think we're not taking this seriously—right before we drop the chaos on him."

Ace, who had been lounging in the background, couldn't help but laugh. "If this works, you guys are genius. HIM will definitely be questioning every little thing after that. It's the perfect distraction."

Professor Utonium gave a small chuckle, clearly amused by the idea. "I never thought I'd be helping plan a birthday party for HIM, let alone one with such... unusual gifts. But if it helps, I'll go up to the attic and find the tape."

Buttercup gave a satisfied nod. "Great. The more ridiculous we make this, the better." She leaned back with a confident grin, already envisioning HIM's confused face when he receives the weirdest birthday gift ever. "This is going to be epic."

The group exchanged smiles, the plan now feeling more complete and absurd than ever. With the hockey VHS in hand, the trap was almost set, and HIM wouldn't know what hit him.

Kelsey stood up with a bright smile, her excitement barely contained. "I'm going to get you an early birthday basket, San!" she announced, her voice filled with affection. She knew Snake had been through so much lately, and this small gesture was her way of reminding him how much she cared.

She made her way to the kitchen, where she had already gathered some of the best treats and thoughtful gifts. First, she grabbed a basket, its woven fibers feeling warm and comforting in her hands. She carefully filled it with an assortment of snacks, each one chosen with care.

The basket started to take shape as she placed in it an array of Japanese snacks—some sweet (sugar-free included), some savory—knowing Snake's love for trying new flavors and his fascination with all things cultural. She added ramen noodles—the kind that had that perfect rich broth and chewy noodles, a comfort food Snake would surely appreciate.

Next, she slid in two packs of Pokemon cards, one of Snake's guilty pleasures, and a small batch of homemade sugar-free mochi that she'd made earlier that morning. She smiled at the thought that Snake would appreciate both the thoughtfulness and the effort behind them.

Kelsey's eyes gleamed as she added the Jellycat Amuseables Birthday Cake Plush, a cute little stuffed cake with a smiling face, perfect for a little quirky touch. "I know you're not big on stuffed animals," she said quietly to herself, "but this one's different. It's fun and has that little charm."

As she carefully added an Urban Outfitters gift card to the basket, she couldn't help but smile. Snake had a bit of a fashionista side to him, and she thought he'd enjoy a shopping spree for something new to wear.

Finally, her hands lingered over the box of black Adidas Campus 00s sneakers. She'd seen Snake eyeing a similar pair a while ago, and when she found these in his size, she knew they'd be the perfect addition to the basket. She set them gently into the basket, a final touch to her thoughtful gift.

With everything perfectly arranged, Kelsey took a step back and admired her work. She felt a warmth in her chest, knowing that this was something she'd put together with love, tailored just for Snake.

"He's going to love it," she murmured to herself, before carefully grabbing the basket and making her way back to where Snake was.

When she entered the room, her eyes sparkled as she handed him the basket, her voice soft but full of excitement. "Happy early birthday, San. I wanted to do something special for you."

Snake's eyes widened in pleasant surprise. "Kelsss, you didn't have to... but I'm definitely not complaining!" He pulled her close with a grin, clearly touched by the thoughtful gesture. "This is amazing. Thank you."

Kelsey beamed, watching as Snake carefully began to unpack the basket. "I know it's not much, but I thought you'd enjoy it. Just a little something to remind you that you're always on my mind, especially with everything going on right now." chuckled, his usual playful smile creeping across his face as he pulled out the plush cake. "Thisss... thisss is so ridiculousss," he said, laughing. "But I love it. And the sneakersss? Seriously? You're ssspoiling me."

Kelsey laughed, feeling a sense of contentment wash over her. "Hey, you deserve it. I'm just glad I could do something for you, especially when everything is so crazy."

Buttercup's eyes lit up as she spotted the Pokemon cards in Kelsey's basket. "OOOOO, Pokemon cards!" she exclaimed, her voice full of excitement as she practically lunged for them.

Kelsey laughed, shaking her head. "I knew you'd be interested in those, Buttercup. But these are for Snake, not you!"

Buttercup pouted playfully, her arms crossing. "Come on, I haven't had a good pack opening in ages. You can't blame me for getting excited!"

Snake, always one to enjoy a bit of friendly teasing, grinned as he pulled the packs out of the basket. "Sorry, Buttercup. I think thessse are for me," he said, waving the cards in front of her with a smirk.

"Fine, fine!" Buttercup rolled her eyes but couldn't help but smile. "But you better let me at least watch you open them. It's all about the suspense!"

Kelsey chuckled and gave Snake an amused look. "You think you're getting away without letting Buttercup have her moment of excitement?" she teased.

Snake laughed, leaning back as he held one of the packs up to the light, inspecting it. "Alright, alright. Let's see if these cards are as good as everyone says. But no peeking, Buttercup!"

Buttercup leaned in, practically bouncing on her feet, eager to watch Snake open the packs. "I'll try to be patient, but no promises!"

Ace slipped into his old black Vans Old Skool sneakers, the worn-out laces tying his look together as he grabbed his car keys. With a determined grin, he looked over at Buttercup and Amanda.

"Buttercup, Amanda, get your butts in gear," he said with a playful smirk. "We need to hit Harris Teeter quick. We'll be right back."

Buttercup shot him a look, one eyebrow raised. "You think we can go fast? I've seen how you drive," she teased, tapping her foot.

Amanda chuckled, adjusting her oversized hoodie as she stood up. "Yeah, Ace, are you sure you'll be able to keep up with us?"

Ace just flashed a grin and held up the car keys. "I've got this. Don't worry, I'm a professional when it comes to speed. Besides, we need that cake mix, and I'm not about to let us run out of time for HIM's party prep."

Buttercup and Amanda exchanged a knowing look but couldn't help but laugh. "Alright, alright, let's go before you end up crashing the car," Buttercup teased, and with that, the trio was off.

As they walked toward the door, Ace gave one last wink over his shoulder. "You know I'm just making sure we're ready for the best fake birthday party ever."

Snake turned to Bubbles with a grin, then glanced at Kelsey. "Bubbles, Kelsey and I will drive you to Target. I've got my Redcard credit card, ssso we'll get everything we need for the party."

Bubbles raised an eyebrow but couldn't help but smile at the offer. "Well, if you're driving, then I guess I'll have to let you guys take charge for once." She gave Snake a teasing look. "Just don't drive like a maniac, alright? We've got a lot to do."

Kelsey chuckled, adjusting her bag. "Don't worry, Bubbles. With Snake behind the wheel, we'll get there in no time. And maybe we'll even pick up some extra snacks while we're at it!"

Snake flashed a mischievous grin. "Oh, you know I can't resssist a Target run. It's basically my sssecond home."

Bubbles sighed but smiled. "Well, if you're offering to do the driving, I guess I'll just have to enjoy the ride... and the shopping spree."

With that, the trio headed out the door, ready to tackle the next phase of their party preparations. Snake's Redcard was the key to their mission, and with his usual mix of confidence and enthusiasm, they knew they'd be ready to make HIM's fake birthday party a spectacular success.

Meanwhile, in the living room, Blossom picked up her phone and dialed Arturo's number, her fingers moving quickly as she prepared to coordinate the next steps for HIM's fake birthday party.

The phone rang a few times before Arturo's voice came through, a little distracted but still upbeat. "Blossom! What's up? You need something?"

Blossom took a deep breath, trying to keep her tone calm despite the whirlwind of activity around her. "Hey, Arturo. We're finalizing everything for the party, and I need you to start prepping for the cake. We're counting on you to handle the cooking and baking tomorrow. I'll assist with Antidote X, as planned."

Arturo chuckled, the sound of clinking pans and the faint hum of a stove in the background. "You got it, Blossom. You know I'm the best when it comes to baking. No cake disaster on my watch!"

Blossom smiled at his enthusiasm, but her voice remained firm. "And remember, we need to get it just right—HIM can be... particular about his cake. No mistakes. Also, make sure you don't skimp on the decorations. We want everything to look extravagant. Think over-the-top!"

Arturo paused for a moment, then replied with a playful tone, "Don't worry, I'm all over it. I'll make it so ridiculous that HIM won't know whether to love it or hate it. You'll have a masterpiece on your hands."

Blossom let out a relieved sigh. "I trust you, Arturo. Just keep me updated if anything changes. And once you're done, we'll need to move on to the fake birthday party decorations. Bubbles, Kelsey, and Snake are handling that part."

"Got it," Arturo replied. "I'll get started on this cake, and you just focus on your end. I'll send you a progress report soon."

"Perfect. Talk soon," Blossom said, hanging up the phone and turning to the rest of the group. The pieces of the plan were falling into place, and there was no time to waste.

As Blossom looked around the room, she couldn't help but feel a sense of satisfaction. With everyone pulling their weight, they were going to pull off the most ridiculous, over-the-top fake birthday party HIM would never forget.

At Harris Teeter, Ace stood near the deli counter, a shopping cart, as he dialed Grubber's number. He paced impatiently while the phone rang, glancing around at the aisles filled with everything from snacks to soda.

Finally, Grubber picked up. His voice was low and gruff. "Ace? What's up?"

Ace sighed, holding the phone between his ear and shoulder as he grabbed a bag of Lays chips. "Hey, Grubber. I need you to do me a favor. We're all getting things together for HIM's fake birthday party this Saturday, and we could use your musical skills. We need someone to play the violin at the party, and I figured you'd be the best fit."

There was a pause on the other end of the line before Grubber responded, his tone flat. "A violin? For HIM's party? You're sure you want me to do that?"

Ace grinned, glancing at Buttercup and Amanda, who were scanning the shelves. "Yeah, we need to throw HIM off with a whole bunch of ridiculous, unexpected stuff. You playing the violin will be... uh, part of the chaos. We're going all out. It'll throw him off balance, and we'll have fun doing it."

Grubber grunted, clearly considering the offer. "Fine, fine. I'll bring my violin, but don't expect me to play anything too classical. I'm not in the mood for a symphony."

Ace chuckled. "Yeah, don't worry. Whatever you play, it'll be perfect for the chaos. Just make sure you're at the party on time. We need everything to be in place by the time HIM walks in."

"Got it," Grubber said. "I'll be there. Just let me know when and where. And if this party ends up being as weird as you're saying, I'm gonna need some serious snacks."

Ace gave him a wink, even though Grubber couldn't see it. "We've got snacks covered. Don't worry about that. Just bring your A-game with the violin."

"Alright, I'll see you soon," Grubber replied before hanging up.

Ace hung up the phone and gave a satisfied grin. Grubber was on board, and with that piece of the plan falling into place, they were one step closer to executing the perfect fake birthday party for HIM. Ace pushed his cart down the aisle, catching up with Buttercup and Amanda.

"Grubber's in," Ace said, a smug smile on his face. "He's going to play the violin. Now we just need to keep the madness going."

When Ace, Amanda, Buttercup, Snake, Kelsey, and Bubbles finally returned from their errands, the group piled into the Utonium household, the scent of freshly baked goods and excitement filling the air. Bags of snacks, party supplies, and ingredients were strewn across the living room floor as they made their way toward the lab.

Blossom, Jojo, Claire, and Professor Utonium were already gathered around the lab table, the atmosphere charged with purpose. The glow of the screens illuminated their focused faces, each of them working on their respective tasks for HIM's fake birthday party.

Blossom looked up from the whiteboard where she had outlined the plan and gave them a nod of approval. "Nice work. I see you've got everything."

Snake, holding a bag of candy, grinned. "We got the goodsss. Kelsssey grabbed a little extra, just in cassse."

Kelsey gave a playful wink. "Had to make sure he gets the best birthday basket. Some snacks, ramen noodles, and of course, his favorite sneakers. Gotta spoil him a little."

Professor Utonium, who had been tinkering with the laptop, looked up with a half-smile. "I trust everything went smoothly? The supplies, the ingredients?"

Ace slapped the shopping cart handle and held up a pack of Devil's Chocolate Cake Mix. "We're all set with that. Grubber's on board with the violin. The snacks are sorted, and Buttercup and Amanda didn't get distracted by the candy aisle."

Amanda rolled her eyes, but a small smile tugged at the corner of her lips. "It wasn't my fault that aisle was just calling to me."

Claire, arms crossed and a smirk on her face, glanced at Jojo. "We still need to get the vibe right. I trust you've got HIM's data, Jojo?"

Jojo, who had been quiet up until now, raised an eyebrow as he swiveled in his chair. "You know it. HIM won't know what hit him. I've got everything covered. His schedule, his preferences, even his emotional triggers. No way he's going to see through this."

"Good," Blossom nodded. "We need HIM distracted, thrown off balance. And the more over-the-top, the better."

Buttercup clapped her hands together. "So what's next? You want us to start decorating or...?"

Blossom's eyes lit up with excitement. "Exactly. But first, Bubbles, Kelsey, and Snake—head over to Fuzzy Lumpkins' cabin. We need him to play his banjo and really bring the music to life. That'll keep HIM distracted. Meanwhile, Amanda, Ace, and I will work on setting up the food and the cake."

"Got it," Kelsey said with a grin, taking Snake's hand. "Let's do this, San. Fuzzy Lumpkins and his banjo are going to be perfect."

Ace leaned against the wall, glancing at the group. "So, while they're off getting the entertainment, what's the plan for the actual party setup?"

Professor Utonium turned his attention to a large screen showing the map of the area. "We'll need to use the distraction to our advantage. The party needs to be outrageous, so HIM is completely off guard. But we also need everything ready by the time he arrives. Everyone should know their roles."

Blossom nodded in agreement. "Right. We'll all work together. You're all in charge of different areas—cake, decorations, and music. I'll coordinate everything from the lab and keep HIM in check with the laptop."

Bubbles, bubbling with excitement, clapped her hands. "I'll start picking out vintage seasonal décor to make it extra wacky. I'm going for over-the-top with a retro twist!"

Claire chuckled. "Well, I guess we're officially throwing HIM the weirdest birthday party ever."

Snake looked around at everyone, feeling a surge of gratitude for this chaotic, yet supportive group. "Let's make sssure thisss is a birthday HIM won't ever forget. And I mean that in the worst way possible."

Everyone laughed, the energy light and positive despite the tension they were about to face. Each person had their role, and together, they felt ready to turn HIM's fake birthday into the ultimate chaotic distraction.

Blossom gave a sharp nod. "Alright, let's get to work. We have two days. Make every second count."

With that, the group dispersed, ready to carry out their parts in the plan. It was going to be a wild, unpredictable ride, but if anyone could pull it off, it was this team. And with a little luck, HIM wouldn't know what hit him.

The room went silent for a moment as everyone processed the news. Then, the chaos that was their planning came to a halt as everyone turned to look at Professor Utonium, who had a proud, yet slightly mischievous smile on his face.

"You what?" Buttercup exclaimed, eyes wide with disbelief. "You reserved Chuck E. Cheese for HIM's fake birthday? Is this some kind of joke?"

Professor Utonium raised an eyebrow and gave a small shrug. "It seemed like the perfect location. It's outrageous, it's unexpected, and HIM will definitely be thrown off. Plus, they have everything—arcade games, pizza, and an animatronic mouse that we can make work to our advantage."

Ace, who had been holding a cake mix in his hand, looked up. "Wait, so you actually booked the whole place? And we're doing all this for HIM? I mean, Chuck E. Cheese? That's... kinda genius, but also kinda weird."

Blossom raised a hand and stepped forward, her expression serious but slightly amused. "You know what? This actually might work. HIM will never expect us to throw him a birthday party at Chuck E. Cheese. He'll be so confused and annoyed by the whole thing that he'll be completely off his game."

Jojo, who had been sitting quietly in the corner, shook his head. "I can't believe this is happening. But hey, it is brilliant. HIM will be so disoriented by the complete absurdity of it all, he won't know what to do."

Kelsey crossed her arms. "And with the vintage decor, the party supplies, and the cake, we'll make sure HIM is so uncomfortable, he won't even know how to react. I mean, it's Chuck E. Cheese. The man's a master manipulator, but even he's not ready for this."

Bubbles bounced on her heels, her excitement growing. "Yes! And Fuzzy's banjo, the decorations, the weird vibes... I think it's going to be absolutely perfect! HIM will be so distracted by the sheer chaos of it all, he won't know what hit him!"

Snake, holding up his Redcard credit card, nodded. "Well, if we're throwing HIM off track with Chuck E. Cheese, we better make sssure everything isss perfectly absssurd. We need to give him a birthday he'll never forget... and not in a good way."

Blossom clapped her hands together. "Alright, we have two days to get this ready. We'll do the usual—chaotic, ridiculous, and memorable. The cake, the party supplies, the decor. Let's make HIM's 'birthday' a complete and utter nightmare for him."

Professor Utonium gave a satisfied smile and took a seat at his computer. "I've already confirmed the reservation for March 22nd, 2025, at Chuck E. Cheese. You'll each have your specific roles to play, but we need to work together to make sure it's a success."

Everyone exchanged excited looks, the plan now feeling more real than ever. They might be up against a manipulative villain, but with a group like this, anything was possible. The stage was set for HIM's fake birthday party to become the most chaotic, memorable event of the year.

"Let's get to work," Blossom said, her voice firm with determination. "We've got a party to throw—and HIM's going to hate every second of it."

The room fell quiet for a second as everyone processed Professor Utonium's new information. Kelsey raised an eyebrow, glancing at Snake and then back at Professor Utonium. "Wait, what? Alexandria?" she asked, clearly surprised.

Professor Utonium nodded with a calm expression. "Yes, I had to make a few adjustments. The Chuck E. Cheese in Alexandria was available for the date and was more than happy to accommodate our... unique needs. Townsville's location was booked for a kid's party. Alexandria has more space, and it's farther out, so it's less likely HIM will recognize the setup."

"Okay, so… we're going to Alexandria for a fake birthday party, where HIM will never expect it," Ace said slowly, trying to wrap his head around the logistics of it all. "I'm honestly kind of impressed. And a little worried, but mostly impressed."

Blossom crossed her arms. "Alexandria, huh? It's still the perfect spot to throw HIM off. He's not going to suspect a thing. It's about making HIM feel like we've lost our minds… which, frankly, we have."

Jojo, who had been doodling on his notepad, suddenly looked up. "That's actually genius. HIM won't expect anything so far away from Townsville. And honestly, he probably thinks we'd be too lazy to travel. It's the perfect blind spot."

"Exactly," Professor Utonium added, his voice filled with confidence. "It's all about setting HIM up to be caught off guard. The unexpected is our weapon. And a little distance from Townsville means fewer risks of him sniffing out our plans."

Buttercup, still trying to process, leaned back and crossed her arms. "Alright, so we have the location, the decorations, the cake... and the guest list. But do we need to make any extra plans for transportation?"

Snake nodded. "I'll handle the driving, Kelsey and Bubbles will come along. We'll make sure everyone has what they need to get there smoothly."

Kelsey added, "And I'll make sure everything goes perfectly with the snacks and drinks on the way. We can even pick up some extra things for the party. I'll also keep an eye out for any suspicious activity while we're en route."

Bubbles, ever excited, chimed in, "I'll make sure all the party supplies are in order! Plus, the theme's already set—I'm all about the chaos we're about to create."

Amanda grinned. "We're going to mess with HIM in the best way possible. I'm not even sure he'll know what hit him."

Professor Utonium stood up, clapping his hands to get everyone's attention. "Alright, team. The clock is ticking, and we've got a lot of work to do in the next 48 hours. Let's make sure this party is as ridiculous as it is effective. We'll throw HIM the worst birthday of his life."

The room filled with a buzz of energy as everyone broke into action. The plan was in motion, and despite all the chaos, it felt like a well-oiled machine—each member bringing their unique talents and personalities into the mix.

It was going to be a birthday HIM would never forget. But for all the wrong reasons.

Blossom paused for a moment, considering Bubbles' question. "Good point," she said, tapping her chin thoughtfully. "Big Billy is a crucial part of our team, and we can't leave him out of this. We'll need to make sure he's on the same page, especially with his... unique skill set."

Professor Utonium, who had been flipping through some papers on the table, looked up. "I'll make sure Big Billy is looped in. He's been on a special assignment in the area, but he should be able to join us in time. He's a big guy, and his... presence could be key in making HIM feel even more off-balance."

Snake, who had been listening intently, nodded. "Billy'sss a walking dissstraction. We can have him play the part of the overly enthusiassstic party guest. HIM's definitely not going to expect that."

Kelsey smiled a little at the thought. "I can already picture it. Big Billy, dressed in party gear, acting like he's having the time of his life while everything's falling apart around HIM."

Amanda laughed. "Yeah, he'll make HIM second-guess every move he makes. That's the kind of party chaos we need."

Blossom turned to Bubbles, giving her a nod. "We'll reach out to Big Billy and have him swing by once he's finished up with his current task. He's always been reliable in situations like these, so I'm confident he'll show up right when we need him."

Ace grinned. "And if he gets there late, we'll just tell HIM it's part of the surprise—Big Billy showing up fashionably late to make HIM feel even more uncomfortable."

Claire, who had been quietly observing, gave a rare smile. "Yeah, I think Big Billy's energy will help throw HIM completely off guard. It'll work in our favor."

Jojo leaned back, tapping his fingers on his notepad. "Big Billy is basically a human wrecking ball, and HIM won't see it coming. It'll be perfect."

Bubbles, who had been looking a little concerned, now beamed. "Okay, good! I'm glad he's still in the plan. I want everything to go perfectly!"

Blossom nodded firmly. "Don't worry, Bubbles. Big Billy will definitely be part of this. We've got everything covered. The last thing we want is HIM feeling like we didn't go all out for his special day."

As the team rallied together, a new sense of determination filled the room. They weren't just throwing HIM a fake birthday party—they were setting the stage for a well-executed plan that would catch HIM off guard, disrupt his schemes, and remind him that even the most sinister plans can be thwarted by an unpredictable team of former villains-turned-heroes.

Blossom glanced around the room, her eyes scanning each person to make sure they were all on the same page. "I've also invited a few key people to the party," she added with a nod, pulling out a small list from her pocket. "The Mayor, Sara Bellum, Jojo's college friends—Noah and Donovan, Concord, Claire's boyfriend, Rob, our old therapist, and Dr. Kutz. Everyone's going to be there, including our backup support system."

Snake raised an eyebrow. "I sssee you're going all out. Are we really inviting everyone?"

Blossom's eyes sparkled with her usual determination. "Absolutely. The more people there are, the more distractions we can create for HIM. Plus, having all these familiar faces will make it even more chaotic for him."

Jojo leaned forward, his usual grin on his face. "Noah and Donovan are going to love this. They owe me big time after that one semester project, and I think this will be a great way to remind them of that."

Kelsey, who had been quietly processing the names on the list, nodded. "And Dr. Kutz? The guy who used to help you all with your... well, 'transition' out of your villainous pasts?"

Blossom smirked. "Exactly. Dr. Kutz has been really instrumental in helping a lot of us navigate this new chapter, and he'll be invaluable for any emotional support if things get too intense with HIM."

Professor Utonium, who had been quiet up until that point, spoke up, his voice steady but tinged with concern. "The more people we have, the harder it will be to manage, but I trust your judgment, Blossom. As long as we stay organized, it could work to our advantage."

"Exactly," Blossom agreed. "The party needs to be big, bold, and completely off-the-wall to throw HIM off track. I want HIM to feel overwhelmed, like there's no escape. Every familiar face will be another layer of confusion for him."

Amanda crossed her arms and gave a sly smile. "And with all those familiar faces, HIM won't know who to focus on. Perfect distraction strategy."

Bubbles, who had been listening attentively, clapped her hands together. "I'm excited! Everyone coming together like this... it's going to be such a wild and fun party. And, if we play it right, HIM won't know what hit him."

Claire, still looking calm but with a hint of excitement, chimed in, "Having our old therapist, Rob, around will help too. He's been through some of our more... complicated situations, and he knows how to handle tense moments."

Snake leaned back, arms crossed, a satisfied grin on his face. "I like it. More dissstractions, more chaosss. The more, the better."

Blossom nodded, her eyes flickering with a sense of purpose. "This is going to be the perfect storm, everyone. We've got the strategy, the people, and the resources. It's all coming together."

Ace stretched lazily, a grin forming on his lips. "So, when are we getting the party hats and confetti? Or should we save that for the big surprise?"

Bubbles giggled at Ace's comment. "Confetti's already on the list! We're going all out."

Blossom gave a sharp nod, making final mental checks of the plan. "Alright, everyone, we've got our work cut out for us, but with all these people on board, HIM won't know what hit him. Let's make this party unforgettable."

The room buzzed with excitement and anticipation. Each member of the team knew the stakes were high, but they were ready. This fake birthday party for HIM was more than just a celebration—it was the perfect trap, and they were determined to make it work.

Blossom looked around the room, her eyes sparkling with the same focused determination that had carried them through countless plans before. "Oh, and I invited Ms. Keane too," she added, her voice carrying a hint of satisfaction.

Everyone in the room paused, the mention of the beloved teacher catching their attention.

Ace raised an eyebrow. "Ms. Keane? Seriously? What's the plan with her?"

Blossom nodded. "She's one of the few people HIM won't expect at a party. Plus, she knows how to handle the kids and keep things calm if anything goes awry. If anyone can manage the chaos and make HIM think everything is normal, it's Ms. Keane."

Bubbles bounced excitedly. "Ms. Keane will totally make everything more fun! She'll keep the kids entertained and distracted so HIM doesn't suspect a thing."

Amanda nodded in agreement. "And let's be real—she's also a great influence. If things get too wild, she'll help ground the situation. A calming presence."

Blossom smiled, clearly pleased with her decision. "Exactly. She's an essential part of this plan. And if anything goes sideways, she's got a knack for keeping things under control."

Professor Utonium looked thoughtful. "With Ms. Keane's presence, it will make the whole event feel more legitimate. HIM won't think twice about it. She's perfect for the role."

Jojo let out a small chuckle. "Yeah, we definitely need her to make it seem like an actual party. HIM won't know what hit him with all these surprises and familiar faces."

Blossom's gaze hardened with determination. "Exactly. Every detail is in place now. With Ms. Keane, the others we've invited, and all of us working together, HIM won't know what to do when it all comes together. We've got this."

As everyone else exchanged looks of agreement and excitement, the plan was truly beginning to take shape. The party wasn't just a distraction—it was a well-coordinated effort, with everyone playing their part to perfection. With Ms. Keane's involvement, the ruse was as solid as ever.