Day Five - Continued.

Zoe tried to greet all the Pomper girls as quickly as she could so, she could escape for even a moment. Of course, they gave her a tiny tiara to place atop her hair and a sash to wear over her shoulder that said (Zoe Yang. VIP Pomper Member.) before she actually got to escape. She excused herself from the crowd of Pomper Girls, claiming she had to use the restroom, and skipped away, through the venue, to find said restroom. When Zoe was alone in the little passage way between the stalls and the entrance, she pulled out her phone to listen to Teddy's voicemail.

"Hey, Zo.. Uhh... Howl said he talked to you a few days ago and uhh... Just know that I'm alright, okay?"

A small smile itched at the corner of Zoe's lips, which she tried to hide the best she could.

"You don't have to worry about me, Zo. You've got enough stuff to focus on so, I hope you're not too worried and distracted.. Maybe, you're not distracted either, which would be good..."

Zoe snorted a laugh at Teddy's very awkward and nervous tone.

"Point is: I'm fine. Don't worry. Just focus on whatever work you have to do so, you can come home again. And then, we can talk when you get back."

Zoe frowned, her eyes falling to the floor as she kicked her heel mindlessly into the ground. There was a strange chance she wasn't going home. Her mother was convinced that nothing good had come from Zoe going to Ohio in the first place. Teddy was good, though. Even if her mother wouldn't believe it. Or, anyone else for that matter. She wanted to go home just for him.

"Uhh.. Good luck, Zo. See ya soon. Uhm.. Bye. Oh, right! And, Merry Christmas.. Okay, bye."

Zoe pulled her phone from her ear and played the voicemail again, smiling to herself at the sound of Teddy's awkward but endearing greeting. She listened to the message once more, her smile fading to a frown halfway through, just like the first time. She really missed Teddy and would be devastated if her mother wouldn't let her go back. She just got her first kiss from the boy she really liked. It wasn't fair to think she'd never get another.

After listening to Teddy's message twice, she had suddenly realized that he hadn't mentioned anything but the fact that he was okay. It made sense that he would keep his message short. Teddy was a man of few words. But, he didn't mention anything about the house or the cars. Zoe would've imagined he'd at least thank her since he liked the cars but, then again, she had yet to get notifications from her security system that anyone had entered or left the house.

Why wasn't Teddy using the house or cars? After he had gotten beaten by Rin's henchmen, he especially deserved them. Maybe he was saying he was alright but, he was actually scared. Zoe could only hope that wasn't true.

"Zoe?" A high pitched voice interrupted Zoe's thoughts. Zoe turned to see a tall, skinny, brunette standing in the doorway of the girls restroom with her tiara and sash proudly stapled on to her figure. It was Elyse. "We're waiting for you, Zoe! The nail techs can't start until all the girls are ready!"

Zoe excitedly lit up and put her phone away, grabbing Elyse's hand after she offered it and following her back out to the other girls. All of the girls were already sat side by side in the plaza's event room with nail technicians on the other side of the long table, getting ready to get to work. Elyse sat Zoe beside her at the end and called over the last nail tech to help her choose the designs she wanted.

"Which color?" The nails tech showed off a palette of the colors they offered.

"Can you do something with a red base and white designs for Christmas? Like snowflakes and candy canes and stuff like that?" Zoe asked the woman, who happily nodded and began preparing her rings.

Elyse gasped as she nudged Zoe. "Ooh, Christmas! Zoe, that's so clever! It's so hard to think about traditional Christmas when we keep going to the beach everyday. But now, I want to change mine!"

Zoe chuckled and watched as Elyse nudged the girl on the other side of her, told her she was doing Christmas colors because Zoe was, and then watched as that girl did the same thing. It didn't take long for word to get to the end and all the girls to decide that they wanted to do matching Christmas colors.

Only a few of the girls moms actually came to the event, seeing as most of the girls were old enough to come to Pomper events alone. As the girls were getting their nails done, though, the moms stood behind the nail techs to take photos for their daughters, and their own, social media accounts. Zo flashed a smile for her mother and even let her take a few candids before Rin went back to socializing with the others Pomper moms.

"Elyse!" Someone yelled from the other end of the long table.

Elyse curiously perked up and looked towards the other end, which was closer to the entrance of the venue. When she spotted Christine pointing excitedly towards the door, Elyse leant back and spotted a well dressed man walking in with a Gucci shopping bag rocking in hand. Elyse squealed with excitement, stomping her feet under the table since she couldn't get up as the nail tech did her nails. When the other girls realized who had walked in, they also squealed with excitement.

"Oh my god! It's my boyfriend!" Elyse squealed as he made his way to her. He chuckled and caressed Elyse's face to bring her into a loving kiss, which made the other girls squeal even more. "What are you doing here, baby?"

"It's so cold outside, I wanted to make sure you were staying warm." The boyfriend, who Zoe recognized to be Jake Coolice, who had gotten popular through his talent in winter sports, said as he pulled out a scarf from the Gucci bag and draped it around Elyse's neck.

Elyse's jaw dropped, her expression still lit up with happiness. She was obviously impressed by her boyfriends charm, as were the other girls, who squealed and swooned over Elyse's boyfriend. He looked proud of himself as he smiled at the girls and winked to further push his charm into all the girls hearts. Zoe wasn't overly impressed. Jake was pretty but he was too pretty. Teddy was handsome. Sophisticatedly handsome. He had a natural, raw charm that felt very synthetic in Jake.

"It's like 65 degrees outside!" One girls whined from the row. "It's not even that cold compared to where Zoe just came from!"

Jake Coolice turned to glance at Zoe, who awkwardly smiled at him, unable to wave since her hands were occupied. "Why? Where'd you come from?" He asked.

"Ohio." Zoe answered.

The guy scoffed and turned to his girlfriend. "Fine. Maybe I just wanted to see my girlfriend."

Elyse's grin grew ten times as big as the other girls swooned or groaned, all equally as jealous, even the girls who did have boyfriends or husbands. Their boyfriends or husbands didn't surprise them unless it was a super special event. Elyse's boyfriend only came because he missed her. They were envious. Zoe sulked, wishing she could slip away to see Teddy instead of having him make a big, obnoxious scene like this.

"Dinner tonight?" He asked Elyse.

"Sure, babe." Elyse happily wiggled in place.

"Okay. Stay warm, I've gotta go." He leant down to give Elyse another kiss. "I just wanted to see you."

"Wait, before you go!" Elyse's mother chimed in from behind Elyse's nail tech. Elyse and Jake both looked up at her as she held her phone up. "Give her another kiss and pose for a picture."

Zoe tried to lean out of the phone, as did the girl on the other side of Elyse. They both let Elyse and Jake have their moment for the pictures and then sat normally again when Elyse's mother put her phone down. Elyse said goodbye to her boyfriend and then he said goodbye to all the girls as they all swooned over him. Elyse seemed happy and proud as she wiggled happily in her seat and looked down at her Gucci scarf.

"Now, what about yours?" Elyse suddenly turned to Zoe, who perked up with curiosity at her question. "Where's your guy? You didn't bring him with you?"

Zoe was taken aback by Elyse's question, her eyes quickly stealing a glance at Rin, who had already sat down with a few other mothers by the bar. She dropped her eyes back to her nails and shrugged. "No.. I didn't bring him."

"Awh! How come?" Elyse pouted. "You two seemed really connected in that video of you two kissing at that party."

Zoe blushed and awkwardly shifted in her seat. Some of Zoe's classmates had explained the situation after it was posted since people were confusing Teddy as Zoe's boyfriend but, not everyone knew the real story or believed it. Elyse must not know the real story behind the video or even cared to go look for the story, which was understandable. It was just a quick little scandal. Nothing to get too invested in. Unfortunately, that was only true from an outsiders perspective.

"That wasn't exactly what it looked like." Zoe nervously chuckled.

"No? You guys aren't official yet?" Elyse pushed, innocently curious but making Zoe incredibly nervous and uncomfortable.

"No.. I guess, we're not. He's mostly just.. a friend."

"But, you like him?"

Zoe gulped, avoiding eye contact with Elyse as she watched the nail tech do her nails. Out of the corner of her eyes, she could see her mother get up. For a moment, her heart skipped a beat and leaped into her throat. Luckily, Rin was still clueless to their conversation and excusing herself to take a call in the next room. Zoe let out a sigh of relief and let her body relax a bit.

"I.. I like him, yes.." Zoe let a small smile itch at the corner of her lips as she turned to Elyse, who smiled even bigger. Zoe shyly hid her face in her shoulder as she fought the giddy feeling inside her.

"Aww.." Elyse cooed at Zoe. "Young love is so cute. You're so smitten, I can already tell. He's very handsome, though, Zoe. I understand why you like him."

"I think he's handsome, too." Zoe giddily wiggled in place and bit back her smile.

"Do you ever worry he only wants you for your money and fame, though? I mean, he's just a normal guy, right?"

"No. I'm not worried at all."

"Wow.. Really?" Elyse frowned. "I hope you're careful, at least. There are a lot of people out there that just want to be apart of your life for clout."

Zoe found it kind of ironic hearing all of this from Elyse, who was dating an aspiring Olympian that was only talked about because he was such a player. He was always caught with girls at clubs, caught going out somewhere with various movie and tv show actresses, and welcomed fangirls like they were the true prize at his various sporting events. He wasn't really boyfriend material and yet, Elyse somehow got him hogtied down. Zoe suspected they might be together just so Jake can show off he was capable of commitment and he wasn't just a sleazeball.

And no matter what, Zoe knew Teddy would never use her for money or fame. He wasn't that kind of guy. His values were different. He didn't care about fame and, even when it came to money, he was on a mission to succeed financially on his own. Teddy wanted to go on that journey on his own for his sister and his family and his pride. There was no way Teddy would ever use Zoe, she was sure of it. Her others friends from Ohio, she wasn't so sure she could say the same but that was fine because, she didn't ever planning on giving them that stuff.

Zoe didn't know if she should address Teddy's message but she wanted to show off her nails to him, since he inspired them. She decided to acknowledge it, at the least. She was happy he had called and he was okay and didn't seem upset. So, when she sent a picture of her nails, she said,

Thanks for the nail inspiration! Glad you're okay! Miss you guys like crazy! Good luck on your finals and Merry Christmas!🎄♥️

That felt good enough. There was a lot more that Zoe wanted to say but she wasn't sure how she should say it all. Teddy hadn't mentioned their kiss or the fact that she gave him keys to her house and cars. He was staying with Howl and said they could talk when she got back so, she decided to keep it simple and not overthink it. Teddy was right, she couldn't really afford to be distracted right now. She was already walking a thin line with her mother and she wanted to be good so Rin would allow her to go home again.

"Alright, everyone! Nails dry?" Mrs. Stevens excitedly clapped as she stood up and gathered everyone attention. The Pomper Girls confirmed in a high pitched chorus before Mrs. Stevens continued. "Oh, perfect, Pomper Girls! Now, it's time to reward our Featured Pomper Girls with new Pomper Passes and gifts! Everyone find a seat."

The girls excitedly cheered as they all scattered to find a fluffy bean bag chair to seat themselves in. As they did, a group of four young men, all dressed in tight tuxedos, came out with trays of drinks in hand. The girls gasped and gawked at the men as they passed out drinks to all the ladies sat around the room. Zoe would've been just as excited to see these boys before moving to Ohio but, now, she couldn't help but wonder what Teddy would look like in a nicely fitted suit like theirs. He had really nice shoulders and arms so, the short sleeves and fitted vest would probably look really old on him.

"I know all of you girls have been working very hard in this very strict industry and probably need a little break from all of your hard work so..." Mrs. Stevens pulled a fat, pink envelope from a small bag beside her chair and the girls ooh'd, wondering what could be inside. "Who wants to go on an all-expenses-paid vacation?"

The girls really exploded then, even though they all had enough money to go on whatever vacation they desired. Zoe was never allowed a vacation, on the few occasions that she had won one. Rin kept Zoe glued to her and her husbands side unless she had a gig or they were too busy to keep track of her. Even then, they were never away long enough for Zoe to go on vacation and relax. They always wanted her working. She was lucky enough to escape to Ohio after convincing her mother for the past few years to let her explore the normal world.

"We have three winners this year, ladies. Pepper Johnson was suppose to be our fourth winner but after her representative, Mr. Graham, got her that Winter Gala gig, she excused herself from our Pomper program in pursuit of more mature work." Mrs. Stevens explained, her high pitches voice a bit stern and smile tense. She obviously wasn't happy to be announcing that.

Zoe perked up at that news. If Mrs. Stevens hadn't announced that, she wouldn't have known Pepper had quit because Pepper never showed up to these Pomper events anyways. She did when they were around ten years old but, ever since, she's been skipping out and claiming it was too juvenile and pointless. The only reason she hadn't quit sooner was because she liked being rewarded for her hard work and that's all the Pomper program did.

"Good news for Zoe!" One girl chimed, gathering everyone's attention, as well as Zoe's. "Now, you're Mr. Graham's only Pomper client. Unless... someone feels like switching representatives.."

Hesitant, brief, awkward glances were exchanged between the girls as they considered that possibility. Mr. Graham was really close with Zoe's parents, who were known to be very popular people in the industry of selling products and personalities. Mr. Graham was almost directly below the Yang's, as well. He was a well respected man with a lot of connections and charisma and credibility. Although, Zoe didn't always go to Mr. Graham for gigs. Her mother usually took on that job.

Still, Mr. Graham was allowed credit for Zoe's gigs and had now just landed Pepper a gig so grandiose that she didn't even need connections through him or the Pomper program, which was a big deal to some of the girls here that couldn't work without this program. Mr. Graham was practically free for the picking. He lost a girl and barely had Zoe. He had a lot of time for represent another young lady, and would probably be excited to accept one. Now, it just depended on which girl had the guts to jump at the opportunity first.

"You girls may keep that in mind for now but, switching representatives isn't allowed until the New year, as many of your contracts state so, let's keep our attention on the prizes first, ladies." Mrs. Stevens said, pulling the attention back to her and the envelope in her hand.

It was hard to keep the girls attention, even for something as grand as a free vacation to somewhere luxurious, as Rin put her phone to her ear and started sauntering out of the room and on to the terrace. The girls, along with Zoe, watched as Rin lit a cigarette and started talking quickly with whoever was on the other line. They didn't know who it was but, a lot of them assumed it was Mr. Graham. They all knew the Yang's well enough to assume Rin was doing something shady.

"Zoe Yang in third place for the Bahamas!" Mrs. Stevens announced with a loud, excited cheer.

The girls, somewhat distracted, applauded Zoe and congratulated her. They were even more excited because Zoe almost always won and never got to go, which meant she could pass her prize on to someone else. Strangely, though, she got third place instead of first or second. That was odd. Either, she got a high prize or no prize.

"The only reason we decided to give you third is because that Dior sponsorship fell through." Mrs. Stevens dramatically frowned. "If you had kept up that deal, you probably would've received first."

Zoe struggled to make any type of expression that conveyed any type of emotion. She wasn't upset about the Dior debacle because she was too focused on making sure her friends were okay when that happened. And she wasn't allowed to accept the prize anyways so, even if she didn't lose Dior, it didn't make a difference. Still, the girls wanted a reaction. So, as the daughter of Rin Yang, Zoe faked a deep pout and turned to the rest of the girls, Rin peaking her head in to listen to her daughter.

"I am deeply ashamed about my slip up with Dior and don't believe I actually deserve this award so, I have humbly decided to pass my prize on to whoever came in fourth." Zoe proclaimed.

Rin smirked at her daughters little speech and returned to her call on the terrace. Some girls seemed genuinely convinced of Zoe's shame and felt humbled, themselves, by her selflessness to give up her prize because of her mistake. Others already knew Zoe wasn't going to accept the prize anyways so, they knew her speech was pointless and all for show. Zoe simply relaxed in his fluffy bean bag chair and averted her attention back to Mrs. Stevens as she gestured the envelope towards Elyse.

"Elyse Ginetti, you came in fourth. Congratulations!" Mrs. Stevens beamed with so much pride and excitement.

The girls erupted into cheers as Elyse shot up from her bean bag and hopped with joy as she went to receive her envelope. On the way back, she knelt down to smack a kiss on Zoe's face, some of her pink lipstick leaving a mark on her cheek. Zoe giggled and smiled as Elyse showed off her Bahamas' brochure to the other girls and hopped back into her seat. Elyse was one of the few Pomper Girls that Zoe actually liked so, she didn't mind passing her vacation on to her. Besides, she didn't have very fond memories of the Bahamas.

Zoe didn't get to stay to hear whoever won second and first place as Rin grabbed her arm and swiftly pulled her out of her bean bag chair. She was still on the phone but, since she had also grabbed everyone's attention, she took a moment to spout an excuse as to why they had to leave with a fake frown on her painted features. Everyone acted kind in saying their quick farewells, some begging for Zoe to stay to bake and eat Christmas cookies with them.

"Yeah, Rin-" One bitter mother at one of the back of the pack of girls spoke up. "Even if you're busy, there's no reason Zoe should have to leave her friends and miss out on the proper Pomper experience."

Rin tried to keep her fake smile bright and unbothered, even though there was a flame in her eyes that far surpassed the flame in the other moms eyes. Zoe tensed but still held her calm, relaxed composure.

"Not all of the mothers and daughters here are housewives, Regina." The tone and expression Rin was using completely countered what she was saying, creating a scary paradox of happiness and anger. "We actually have jobs to get back to."

The room was silent and the awkwardness hung stiff between all that silence as girls exchanged glances and Regina held Rin's stare. The silence remained as Rin continued to drag Zoe off, pressing her phone to her ear again to resume her call. Zoe couldn't help but feel a bit disheartened. She never got to bond with the girls because her mother never let her stay long. There was a lot of drama between some of the Pomper Girls so, it was probably for the best anyways.

Still, Zoe was sick of being lonely.

"I, uhh.. I thought we were going to stay til the end today..?" Zoe reluctantly spoke up as she followed her mother outside and to the car.

"We were-" Rin threw open the back door to the first cap that stopped and gestured for Zoe to get in. "Before I found out Mr. Graham is keeping secrets from us."

Zoe shuffled into the car and Rin after her before she ordered the cab driver to drive to a fancy restaurant towards the ocean. Rin was obviously trying to get a hold of Mr. Graham but he wasn't answering, which was pissing her off more and more.

"Maybe, he's just old.. Mr. Graham says and does a lot of stuff that doesn't make sense because he's old. He might not be purposefully keeping secrets.."

"Zoe, shh!"

Zoe flinched at her mothers command but obeyed and sat quietly beside her mother as she made a few calls to ask around about Pepper Johnson. When they finally made it to the restaurant, though, Rin hung up and put her sunglasses on, despite the fact that the sun was setting, and climbed out of the car. Zoe followed and trotted quickly behind her mother as she strutted fearlessly towards the fancy restaurant.

"Good evening, Ma'am. Dinner for two this evening?" The host asked politely as Rin and Zoe burst through the front door.

Without even turning her head, Rin stormed past the host with her chin held high. "We're not eating."

The host seemed flustered, having the obvious reflex to ask Rin to wait to be seated but holding his tongue when he realized she was here for business and looked like she could snap him in two if she pleased. Zoe shyly smiled and waved at the host as she slipped inside the restaurant as well. She didn't know what to say or what she was doing but, she had to follow her mother. She had to keep up. That's how this always worked.

The restaurant Rin had stormed into was as formal as it could get. There was mahogany wood flooring that looked freshly waxed and dark walls with antique art hanging under dim lights. All the tables were full of couples or dinner parties all mingling idly with one another. Everyone was dressed in suits and dresses and expensive jewelry, talking over small centerpieces and candles placed in the middle of the table. The smell of red wine was strong but not much stronger than the smell of cooked meats and pastas.

"Terribly sorry to interrupt your evening, Mr. Graham but, there really is something to be discussed between us at your earliest convenience." Rin politely but stiffly chimed once she reached the man she was hunting for.

Zoe turned from examining and admiring the atmosphere and looked towards her mother and Mr. Graham, also spotting a third party that seemed just as confused by Rin's sudden appearance as Mr. Graham. His golden, chestnut complexion glowed under the dim lighting of the restaurant and his jet black hair was short and gelled in perfect sections to accent his soft and symmetrical features that were framed by a finely groomed beard. He looked middle-age and handsome, sophisticated but welcoming. He looked like a young, rich dad.

"Rin!" Mr. Graham joyfully exclaimed when he finally came to terms with the fact that she was stood directly in front of him. It took him a moment to stand, his company politely following suit. "You recognize Mr. Zaki, don't you? I introduced you two at a business seminar a few years back when he was just getting started in the industry. Mr. Zaki-"

"Mr. Graham!" Rin blurted before he could continue. Zoe could tell Mr. Zaki was about to reach out and shake Rin's hand before she stopped them both. "I've just heard some very unsettling news and I would really like to verify it with you, as business partners, if that is what you're in the mood for this evening."

Mr. Graham could read the level of anxiety in Rin's rambling and finally yielded to her request. He politely excused himself from Mr. Zaki, who seemed kind and compliant as he reassured him that a break in their discussion wouldn't bother him. As Mr. Graham hobbled away with Rin, she pointed firmly to Zoe and then to Mr. Graham's seat, obviously demanding she sit and wait and be patient until they were done speaking.

Zoe quickly took Mr. Graham's seat and watched her mother and him walk away for a moment before she turned to Mr. Zaki. He flashes her a pearly white smile, the expression awkward and forced but still a bit polite. Zoe was at a loss for words. She didn't know what she was doing here or what she was suppose to do so, she did the first thing that came to mind. She introduced herself, like a lady should.

"Zoe." She sat just out of her seat a bit to offer her hand over the table. "Yang, if you're more familiar with my family.. Zoe Yang."

Mr. Zaki seemed amused by Zoe's introduction and also lifted an inch off his seat to politely shake Zoe's small hand. "Ezra. Ezra Zaki, if you're more familiar with my work. But, surely, I am familiar with your family and their work."

Mr. Zaki was attempting to be charming and witty by copying a bit of Zoe's introduction but she was not amused. Instead, she was stuck on his name. Ezra.

At first, Zoe denied it. This wasn't the same Ezra. Carmen's Ezra. There was no way they would suddenly meet under such odd circumstances like this. However, what other way would they have met? Carmen had informed Zoe that Ezra was a fan of the Sensation brand and worked within the same circle as her parents but, she had never heard of Ezra. She hadn't even heard of Mr. Zaki. Apparently, Rin did but, she also didn't know Carmen. The only person coming to some kind of realization was Zoe.

"Ezra.." Zoe repeated the name, mostly to herself as she lowered into her seat, her eyes carefully scanning Ezra's features. She could definitely tell where Bailey got some of her features. "I have never met an Ezra before.."

"Really? And, do you like the name?" Ezra handsomely smiled, the expression sinister and deceiving in Zoe's eyes.

"Yes. It pairs well with Bailey." Zoe blurted. She wasn't thinking, she was just talking. She had to know if this was The Ezra. She couldn't help herself.

The charming man sat in front of Zoe slowly began to falter and shift until the handsome shell dissolved and left Ezra exposed and vulnerable. His smile was gone, replaced by a scowl through his narrow eyes and furrowed brows. Ezra's head slightly tilted as he looked over Zoe and examined all of her that he could see from across the table. The charming smile found it's way onto Ezra's face again in the form of a cryptic smirk that made Zoe's heart thump even more aggressively.

Ezra's eyes dropped to his food as he casually began eating his meal again. "That is a nice name. I wonder where you heard something like that."

Zoe was frozen, her palms producing sweat faster than they ever had before. He didn't deny that he knew the name but, he didn't confirm that he knew the Bailey she was referring to. She would have mentioned Carmen but that felt like it hit a little too close to home. It was too spot on. Too aggressive. Still, Zoe was convinced and she was scared. She only knew this man from stories and he still terrified her just by word of mouth..

When Carmen's parents asked where she got the money for hospital bills, this man was behind it. When Teddy said Carmen had gotten beaten and abused in her relationship, this man was behind it. The kids that never got any attention from their father, those were his kids. He was a husband to a woman he was supposedly keeping captive. Zoe hadn't questioned any of those details before but, now, she had a million things she wanted to ask this man.

"You're not wearing a ring." Zoe muttered weakly as she watched Ezra's thick fingers use a knife to cut into his steak.

"No, I'm not. Because I'm not married, dear." Ezra spoke through a piece of food held in his cheek, a friendly smile on his face once more. He was trying to play dumb with his goofy smile but the look in his eyes was threatening Zoe to continue.

"Carmen wears her ring." Zoe shakily pointed out.

Ezra's smile disappeared again and the dark aura of anger and frustration took over. He threw down his knife and fork, causing it to loudly clatter on his plate and make Zoe violently flinch with fear. With the accidental attention he earned himself from his outburst, he apologized to the tables around him and turned his eyes to Zoe again. She didn't move or avert her eyes as he locked on to her and violently clenched his jaw. He looked like he was about to explode.

"What the hell do you know, huh?" Ezra lowly growled, his lip twitching like a dog about to bite. "How do you know those names, Zoe? Did you meet Carmen yourself? How?"

Zoe knew not to answer those questions. She had to protect herself, Carmen, and even Teddy. She couldn't tell Ezra that Teddy let her meet his sister when she was visiting. Ezra, apparently, didn't give Carmen all that much freedom and Zoe didn't want to be the reason she was put on an even shorter leash. There wasn't much else for Zoe to say, though. She couldn't lie, not after she had brought up Bailey, as well. Ezra already knew she knew too much.

"Can I ask a favor of you?" Zoe's hands anxiously clenched the hem of her short skirt. She held Ezra's stare as his eyes narrowed. He was about to open his mouth to say something crude but, Zoe interrupted him. "Bring Carmen to a Sensation event."

Ezra seemed taken aback by that request, causing his expression to soften and his stiff body language to relax. He still kept his eyes narrowed as he stared at Zoe.

"Why should I?" Ezra scoffed.

"I want to see her." Zoe admitted.

Ezra rolled his eyes. "I don't know what you know, Zoe Yang, but I assure you, she's not going to any events."

"Are you?" Zoe quickly asked.

Ezra paused before he nodded once. "Yes. I am."

"Not if Carmen isn't."

Silence hung in the air as Ezra and Zoe held each other's stare. Zoe couldn't believe she was making a threat like this but, now that she was, she had to mean it. She didn't even know how she would go about this. Did she talk to her parents about not allowing Ezra into their event? They wouldn't listen. Kenneth? He was way too busy, how would he even talk to the right people about keeping Ezra out? Did she have to go to their security team, herself, and talk to them?

Whatever Zoe had to do, she would make sure Ezra wasn't allowed in any Sensation events until she got what she wanted. She was a Yang, after all. They made their own rules.

Ezra scoffed and shook his head. "I don't think you have the power to make that decision, Zoe."

"I do." Zoe confidently countered, although, she was still a bit shaky. "I do and I will make sure that you are not allowed into any Sensation events for as long as you live if I don't get to see Carmen again. And, if you hurt her, I'll take away your newest Sensation."

Ezra perked up, obviously shocked that Zoe even knew he had purchased a new Sensation. She knew things that he didn't know she knew. It was all luck, though. Carmen mentioned that Ezra was looking to buy a new Sensation but, hadn't clarified if he had since they parted on the same day they met. Zoe only assumed he had actually bought one and she was right. And luckily, with the way the Yang's worked, Zoe knew exactly how to get that Sensation back.

Ezra shifted uncomfortably in his seat as he considered Zoe's threats. He was caught off guard, for sure. "You think you're pretty powerful, don't you, Yang?"

"I know I am." Zoe gulped, holding a firm expression even though she was suffocating and shaking and sweating.

"I have my ways too, Yang. Don't think you can just order me and my family around like we're your little puppets." Ezra quietly threatened.

"Carmen is not your family." Zoe could feel her anxiety being overpowered by anger as she stared at Ezra. "Neither is Bailey or Malik. You don't love them. And, if you hurt a single hair on any of them, I can make life very, very hard for you, Ezra."

Ezra was silent, simply staring and thinking. Finally, he spoke, his words a bit less confident than before. "Carmen is not going to your events. She's in New York for fucks sake."

Zoe stole a glance to her left at the sound of her mothers voice. Her and Mr. Graham were returning but were still talking back and forth, no paying any attention to Zoe and Ezra.

Zoe slowly rose from Mr. Graham's seat, keeping her eyes glued to Ezra. "The events take place over the course of five days and five nights. Bring her or you don't get in."

Ezra didn't get the chance to say anything as Mr. Graham and Rin both returned. Zoe happily greeted Mr. Graham as he complimented her for dressing so beautifully this evening. Ezra politely stood, his eyes struggling to look at anything but Zoe as Mr. Graham fawned over her. Rin said a last goodbye to Mr. Graham and turned to Ezra, about to offer a farewell before she realized he was staring at her daughter. Her eyes narrowed and stayed narrowed when he finally looked at her.

"Nice to see you again, Mr. Zaki." Rin offered a hand to Ezra, her expression sinister. Ezra politely shook her hand and even bowed, trying to show as much respect to Rin as possible. She didn't look amused, though. "Are you coming to any Sensation events, Mr. Zaki? We invite a lot of guests so, I apologize that I don't recognize your name from the list."

Ezra stole a glance at Zoe, who only met his eyes for a moment before she looked away. Rin took note of their silent exchange and stuff body language. "Yes. I'm going to make it to as many events as I can. Thank you for inviting me this year."

"Yes.." Rin looked Ezra over with a bit of heat in her glare. "Don't make me regret it."

Ezra froze at Rin's threat, obviously shocked that he had somehow provoked both Zoe and Rin to threaten him this evening. Rin didn't give Ezra too long to stare as she slipped past him and gestured for Zoe to follow. Zoe and Ezra exchanged one last glance as she silently reminded him of their deal before she followed her mother out. Zoe, strangely enough, felt proud of herself. It felt gross to use her power of being a Yang as a way to threaten someone but, in this circumstance, she felt it was necessary. She was looking out for someone she cared about.

But now, Zoe wondered if she was suppose to bring this up to Teddy. Would he be upset with her mingling in his family business? Zoe was only trying to get Carmen out of the house for once. She didn't want Carmen to stay prisoner to Ezra's efforts. Teddy didn't want that either. So, Zoe felt like she was doing a good thing. She just didn't want Teddy to freak out over it if she told him. He loved and worried about his sister so, Zoe threatening Ezra would obviously scare him. It scared her too but, she was a Yang.

If Ezra stepped out of line, she had ways of dealing with him.

"Did you have a nice conversation with Mr. Zaki while I was away?" Rin asked to interrupt the silence looming idly in their cab.

"No." Zoe answered as she stare out her window. Rin cocked her eyebrow, about to reply before Zoe turned and opened her mouth again. "Is there a way for someone to have requirements before they're allowed into one of our events?"

Rin was intrigued by Zoe's question but didn't show it past her sunglasses as she nodded. "Yes. There are a few guests we don't allow in unless they meet certain requirements."

"What if they try to enter an event without meeting those requirements?" Zoe asked, obviously genuinely curious and considering a few theories in her head.

"Nobody makes it passed the front door without being allowed, Zoe. So, if they don't meet those requirements, they don't get in." Rin calmly answered. Zoe nodded as she nibbled on her bottom lip, her eyes shifting to her window again. Rin interrupted Zoe's train of thought by petting her blonde locks and speaking even softer than before. "Why, baby? Did Mr. Zaki bother you? Are there any requirements you have in mind for him?"

Zoe turned to her mother, feeling comforted by her mothers soft petting. She hesitantly nodded and gulped. "I had an idea.."

"Then, share it with me, baby. If you don't want him there, I don't either." Rin softly smiled. "We have ways of taking care of men that bother you, Zoe. You know that."

Zoe cringed at that reminder. She felt wrong using this power against Ezra after it was used against Teddy. She never wanted to be like her parents and sic a bunch of bullies on someone just because she didn't like them. But, yet again, didn't Ezra deserve something like that? He was a monster. Would Teddy agree with her if she told him she wanted to do this? Should she ask him? Would he be disappointed in her or would he agree that Ezra needed to be dealt with because he hated him as well?

"I don't want to take it that far. Not unless it's necessary." Zoe sighed. If Ezra hurt Carmen or the kids, she wouldn't hesitate to sic a few dogs on him. But, he hadn't done anything yet. "I want his wife at our events."

"He's married? How did you know that, Zoe? Is that something you two discussed just now?" Rin asked, feeling a bit anxious that Zoe had information that she didn't.

"But the kids.. If she has to travel all the way across the country, will they hire a nanny or bring the kids?" Zoe worried aloud.

"Zoe, what's the point of this?" Rin took Zoe's wrist, obviously getting impatient. "Who's his wife and why do you want her to come? Why do you care about their kids? How do you know Mr. Zaki?"

Zoe was hesitant. She couldn't mention Teddy. If she told her mother she was doing this because of Teddy, Rin might not listen to her any longer. She didn't like Teddy, obviously. So, she probably wouldn't like Zoe sticking her neck out for him like this. Zoe couldn't let her mother know Carmen had any relation to Teddy but, if Rin did enough digging, she'd easily figure it out. There had to be a way Zoe could pull this off.

"Will you trust me on this, mother? Please? I've made a deal, just like you do, and I want to see it through." Zoe softly begged, staring her mother dead in the eyes, past the sunglasses.

Rin hesitated but let go of Zoe's wrist and averted her attention towards the road. "Fine. Talk to Kenneth. He has the guest lists for all the events. We'll cross out Mr. Zaki and put down his wives name."

Zoe smiled with a bit of pride and triumph. "Thank you."

Rin made one last call to Kenneth, telling him to warn Hiro that they were on their way back to the hotel. It seemed Kenneth was trying to warn Rin that Hiro wasn't prepared for visitors but Rin dismissed him and pressed on with her mission. Rin didn't say anything else to Zoe as they got out of their cab and made their through the luxurious hotel to find their rooms, which were all next door to one another.

Kenneth suddenly popped out from a door at the end of the hallway, his eyes widening as he picked up hair speed to meet them at Hiro's door.

Kenneth must have thought he was in for the night before Rin called him because it looked like he had just thrown his formal clothes back on with his necktie lazily slung over the back of his neck. Rin gave him a disappointed once over before she continued towards Hiro's room. Zoe chuckled at Kenneth's messy appearance and watched him button the cuffs of his dress shirt as she followed her mother towards Hiro's hotel room.

"Hiro should be dressed but there might still be a mess... I didn't get to him in time. I apologize." Kenneth nervously pointed out to Rin as they approached the two bodyguards standing in front of Hiro's door.

"I'm always expecting a mess. It's Hiro." Rin rolled her eyes, slipping past the bodyguards after they opened the door.

The moment Rin and Zoe stepped into the hotel room, a few girls squeals were heard before the girls were actually seen. Rin and Zoe turned towards the small kitchen in the hotel room, spotting three half naked women huddling to cover themselves as strangers came storming through the door. Zoe blushed and averted her eyes, Rin only doing so when she heard a door shut and her husband clear his throat.

A second later, he and another woman stepped out from a short hallway, that must've led to his room. She was fully naked, and grinning proudly back at Hiro, until she spotted people standing by the door. The girl instantly covered up and scurried further into the hotel room to seek refuge in the sitting area by the huge windows. Hiro spotted his wife, daughter, and assistant, shot them all unamused glances before he also ventured further into the hotel room.

"Ruining my night already? I've barely even gotten started." Hiro grumbled, not even bothering to look back.

Rin fearlessly strutted further into the room, Zoe hesitantly stepping forward as well. Before Zoe could get far though, Kenneth grabbed her by her arm and pulled her into the kitchen area as he shooed away the half naked girls. Placing Zoe against the kitchen island, Kenneth looked over her shoulder and out to the rest of the hotel room with a frown. Everything happening behind her was not a scene he would like for her to see and it was disheartening that her parents didn't even blink an eye.

"Don't turn around, alright?" Kenneth sternly warned Zoe, his expression tired but sincere.

"Okay.." Zoe obediently nodded.

Still, though, Zoe's eyes rose over Kenneth's shoulder and to the mirror above the sink in the kitchen. She could see the back of Kenneth, part of herself, and one of the couches in the living space of the hotel. Five newly discovered girls were sat on the couch, completely naked, and huddling to cover themselves and each other as Rin sauntered past them without even glancing their way. All the girls in the room stayed quiet and weary as Rin followed Hiro towards the bar by the window.

Zoe averted her eyes and nervously shifted in place. "I actually wanted to talk to you.." Zoe whispered to Kenneth.

Kenneth carefully watched Hiro and Rin as they whispered to one another at the bar across the room. "Yeah? About what?"

"The guest list. Do you have it? Mother said I could take someone off of it and replace them." Zoe explained.

Kenneth finally looked down at Zoe, his expression twisting in confusion. "Is that true?" He quietly asked.

"Uh-huh!" Zoe excitedly nodded, her brown eyes big and smile bright.

"Uh.. Sorry, Rin..!" Kenneth spoke up, looking over Zoe's head as Rin turned from her conversation with Hiro. "Zoe is.. allowed.. to change the guest list?"

"Yes. Mr. Zaki is no longer invited." Rin casually confirmed with a flick of her wrist.

"What does that mean?" Hiro looked offended and confused as he gestured with his glass of scotch. He looked from Zoe to Rin. "Who's Mr. Zaki and what is Zoe doing taking him off the list? Who gave her permission to do that?"

"I did." Rin shrugged, looking Hiro disapprovingly up and down. The hotel robe around his body impressed her far less than her own, expensive pants suit. "She's conducting business like a true Yang and I'm not going to stop her from finally embracing our teachings. Isn't that fair?"

Zoe couldn't turn around to look at her mother, at the risk of seeing more than she wished of the other girls gathered around the hotel room. She still smiled, though, biting down on her bottom lip as she was overcome with joy. It actually sounded like her mother might be proud of her. Granted, she was only proud because Zoe was using her powers to spite someone but, it still made Zoe happy. After Rin lectured her for making such bad decisions for herself in Ohio, it felt like she was proving herself now.

Zoe wasn't ruined, she was only progressing. By doing this and banning Ezra from Sensation events, she could make her mother, Carmen, and even Teddy proud of her. That's all she really wanted.