Ch. 13 Finding out what happened

The local diner buzzed with the usual lunchtime crowd the next day. Potato sat at a corner booth, drumming his fingers on the table while waiting for Jan. He had invited her to hang out, sensing she needed a distraction. They had been getting to know each other better since Ronnie's party, and Potato found her company refreshing.

The bell above the door jingled, and Potato looked up to see Jan walking in. She spotted him and waved, a shy smile on her face. As she approached, Potato stood up to greet her.

"Hey, Jan," he said with a grin. "Glad you could make it."

"Hey, Potato," Jan replied, sliding into the booth opposite him. "Thanks for inviting me."

A waitress came by, taking their orders for milkshakes and fries. Once she left, Potato turned his attention back to Jan.

"How've you been?" he asked, trying to gauge her mood.

"I've been okay," Jan replied, fiddling with a napkin. "Just...thinking a lot."

"Yeah, me too," Potato admitted. "Especially about Ronnie."

Jan's eyes widened with concern. "What happened to her? Is it something to do with Danny? At the sleepover, she told the girls and me he hadn't seen her for a month since they took a break."

Potato took a deep breath, knowing this conversation was necessary. "It's a bit of a mess. Ronnie discovered that Danny's been seeing someone else, a girl I don't even know. She saw them together at Frosty's, and... it broke her heart. Gil told me that Olivia told him Ronnie dumped a milkshake on him out of anger."

Jan gasped, her hand flying to her mouth. "That's awful! No wonder she was so concerned when she said that Danny hadn't seen her for a month. I can't believe Danny would do that to her."

"Yeah," Potato said, his tone somber. "It's been tough on her. Richie and the rest of us are trying to support her as much as we can, but it's hard seeing her like this."

Jan reached across the table, placing her hand on Potato's. "I'm glad she has you guys. And... I'm glad you told me. The Pinks and I are going to help, too."

Potato looked at her, appreciating the sincerity in her eyes. "Thanks, Jan. It means a lot. I know Ronnie would appreciate you and the Pinks' support."

The waitress returned with their milkshakes and fries, and they fell into a more comfortable conversation, enjoying each other's company. They talked about food and their favorite movies and even shared a few laughs.

As the afternoon wore on, Potato felt more at ease around Jan. He could see why Ronnie valued her friendship. Jan had a way of making people feel comfortable, and her kindness was genuine.

"Hey, Potato," Jan said suddenly, breaking into his thoughts. "Do you think Ronnie would want to hang out with us sometime? Maybe it would help take her mind off things."

Potato nodded, a smile forming on his lips. "Yeah, I think she would. That's a great idea, Jan. We could plan something fun."

Jan smiled back, feeling a sense of accomplishment. "Let's do it. We'll help Ronnie get through this."

Potato and Jan left the diner, the sun shining brightly as they walked down the bustling streets of downtown. They chatted easily, the conversation flowing naturally between them. As they wandered, Potato pointed out some of his favorite spots.

"There's this great little bookstore over there," he said, nodding towards a small shop with a quaint sign. "And the best ice cream in town is just around the corner."

Jan smiled, enjoying his enthusiasm. "It sounds like you know this place like the back of your hand."

"Yeah, I've spent much time around here," Potato admitted. "It's kind of like a second home."

As they turned a corner, they came upon a charming boutique. The window displays were filled with colorful clothes and accessories, and a sign above the door read, "ChicVoyage."

"Hey, let's check this place out," Potato suggested, holding the door open for Jan.

Inside, the shop was cozy and inviting. Racks of clothes lined the walls, and a pleasant scent of rose and strawberries filled the air. As they browsed, Potato noticed a familiar figure behind the counter.

"Serena!" he called out, waving.

The girl behind the counter looked up, her icy blue eyes softening as she recognized him. Serena had curly blonde hair and a stern facade, but those who knew her well understood she was a sweetheart.

"Potato, it's good to see you," Serena greeted him warmly. She walked over, her stern expression melting away. "Who's your friend?"

"This is Jan," Potato introduced her. "Jan, this is Serena. She goes to the same church as my family."

Serena extended her hand, shaking Jan's with a friendly grip. "Nice to meet you, Jan. Any friend of Potato's is a friend of mine."

"Nice to meet you too, Serena," Jan replied, feeling instantly welcomed.

Serena turned back to Potato, a knowing glint in her eyes. "So, what brings you two here today?"

Potato shrugged, trying to play it cool. "Just hanging out, showing Jan where I like to hang out. I honestly didn't know you work here."

Serena smiled, her eyes twinkling. "Well, you're in for a treat. This shop has some great stuff. Let me know if you need any help."

As Serena returned to the counter, Jan leaned in closer to Potato. "She seems nice."

"Yeah, she is," Potato said, glancing at Serena. "She's got this tough exterior, but she's one of the kindest people you'll ever meet."

Jan nodded, feeling more at ease. "It's nice to see you have good friends around here."

Potato smiled, feeling a warmth in his chest. "Yeah, it is. And I'm glad you're getting to meet them."

As they continued browsing, Potato noticed Serena watching them with a knowing smile. He blushed slightly, realizing she had probably picked up on his feelings for Jan. But instead of feeling embarrassed, he felt a sense of reassurance. Serena's silent support meant a lot to him.

After a while, they selected a few items and brought them to the counter. Serena rang them up, her demeanor as friendly as ever.

"I hope you guys have a great day," Serena said as she handed them their bags. And Potato, it was nice seeing you again."

"You too, Serena," Potato replied. "We'll see you around."

Potato and Jan were still chatting with Serena when the door to the boutique swung open, and Sonny strolled in. He was wearing his signature leather jacket, trying to look nonchalant, but his eyes were immediately drawn to Serena. He spotted them from outside earlier, and Serena's beauty struck him to the core, so he had to talk to her.

"Hey, Potato! Jan!" Sonny called out, trying to keep his cool as he approached.

"Hey, Sonny," Potato greeted, giving him a friendly nod. "What brings you here?"

Sonny shrugged, though his gaze kept flicking back to Serena. "Just walking around town. Thought I'd see what you guys were up to."

Potato grinned, sensing Sonny's interest. "Sonny, this is Serena. She works here and goes to the same church as my family."

Serena smiled politely, though there was a twinkle of amusement in her icy blue eyes. "Nice to meet you, Sonny."

Sonny, for once at a loss for words, managed a goofy smile. "Uh, nice to meet you too, Serena."

Jan, ever the sweetheart, saw an opportunity to bring everyone together. "Serena, we're thinking about hanging out for a bit. Would you like to join us?"

Serena glanced at the clock on the wall and then at her almost-finished tasks. She looked back at the three of them, a smile forming. "Sure, I'd like that. My shift is almost over, and my coworker will close up."

Sonny's face lit up. "Great! Where should we go?"

Potato suggested, "How about the ice cream parlor around the corner? They have the best sundaes."

Serena nodded, grabbing her bag from behind the counter. "Sounds perfect. Give me a minute to wrap things up."

As Serena went to finish her tasks, Sonny leaned in towards Potato and Jan, trying to contain his excitement. "She's gorgeous," he whispered, his eyes wide.

Potato chuckled. "Yeah, she's pretty cool too. Just play it cool, Sonny."

Jan giggled, nudging Sonny. "You'll be fine. Just be yourself."

When Serena returned, the four left the shop and headed towards the ice cream parlor. The walk was filled with light-hearted conversation, and Sonny made a point to stay close to Serena, trying to impress her with funny stories and jokes.

The ice cream parlor was bustling with activity, the sweet scent of waffle cones and chocolate filling the air. They found a booth near the window and checked out the menu.

"So, Serena," Sonny started, trying to sound casual. "What do you like to do for fun?"

Serena smiled, appreciating his effort. "I enjoy reading and going for walks. I love baking. I also love hanging out with my girls."

"Really? Baking? That's cool," Sonny said, genuinely interested. "What's your specialty?"

Serena thought for a moment. "Probably cookies. I make a mean chocolate chip."

Jan chimed in, "We should have a baking day sometime! That sounds like fun."

Serena nodded, warming up to the idea. "I'd love that."

As they ordered their sundaes and continued chatting, Serena relaxed more around Sonny. Despite his dorkiness, he had a certain charm that she found endearing.

Potato and Jan exchanged glances, both feeling satisfied at how well the afternoon was going. It was nice to see everyone getting along and having a good time.

As they enjoyed their sundaes, Sonny and Serena continued to talk, finding common ground in their interests. Potato and Jan joined in, the four laughing and sharing stories.

The afternoon flew by, and as they left the ice cream parlor, Sonny felt more confident and hopeful about getting to know Serena better.

"Thanks for hanging out with us, Serena," Sonny said, smiling at her as they walked to Serena's car.

"Thank you for inviting me," Serena replied, her stern facade softening into a genuine smile. "I had a great time."

They waved goodbye as Serena entered the car and drove away. Sonny watched her go, a dreamy look on his face.

Potato clapped him on the shoulder. "You did good, Sonny."

Jan nodded, smiling. "She seemed to like you."

Sonny grinned, feeling a new sense of excitement. "Yeah, I think she did."

Twinkling stars filled the night sky. Shy Guy found solace on his rooftop, gazing at the starry sky. It was his favorite spot to think and unwind, away from the noise and chaos of everyday life. He leaned back on his elbows, breathing in the cool night air.

A soft thud interrupted his thoughts. Confused, He looked around and heard a familiar voice from below.

"Hey, Shy Guy! Can I come up?"

He leaned over the edge and saw his neighbor and second division Pink Lady member, Marty, standing in her backyard, a playful grin on her face. She waved at him, and he couldn't help but smile back.

"Sure, come on up," he called, gesturing towards the ladder he had set up against the side of the house.

Marty quickly climbed up, her movements confident yet careful. When she reached the rooftop, she plopped beside him, a mischievous glint in her eyes.

"Nice place you got here," she said, looking around.

"It's peaceful," Shy Guy replied, still smiling. "What brings you here?"

"I saw you up here and thought I'd keep you company," Marty said, leaning back and looking up at the stars. "Plus, it's too nice a night to stay inside."

They sat in comfortable silence, the stars above them twinkling like diamonds. Eventually, Marty glanced over at Shy Guy, noticing the contemplating look on his face.

"What's on your mind?" she asked gently.

Shy Guy sighed, debating whether to share what he knew. But Marty was Ronnie's friend and Pink Lady member, and she had a right to know. "It's about Ronnie."

Marty sat up, concern immediately clouding her features. "What happened?"

Shy Guy took a deep breath. "She found out that Danny's been seeing someone else. She saw him with another girl at Frosty's today. It hurt her."

Marty's eyes widened in shock and sympathy. "Oh no, poor Ronnie. She must be devastated."

"She is," Shy Guy confirmed, his voice heavy with sadness. "Richie had to kick Danny out of the T-Birds because of it. Ronnie's been through a lot."

Marty shook her head, feeling a mix of anger and sorrow. "How could Danny do that to her? Ronnie's such a great person. She doesn't deserve this."

"I know," Shy Guy agreed. "She's been so strong, but this broke her heart."

Marty reached out and placed a comforting hand on Shy Guy's arm. "Thanks for telling me. I'll make sure to be there for her, too. She needs all the support she can get."

Shy Guy nodded, grateful for Marty's understanding. "Yeah, she does. And it's good that she has friends like you."

Marty smiled softly. "Well, we Pink Ladies have to stick together, right?"

They sat in silence again, the weight of their conversation lingering. The stars continued to shine above them, a reminder that there was always light, even in the darkest times.

"Thanks for letting me hang out with you," Marty said after a while, her voice filled with genuine gratitude. "I needed this."

"Anytime, Marty," Shy Guy replied, his smile returning. "I'm glad you came up. It's nice to have company."

Betty was lounging in the living room, flipping through a magazine, when she overheard her older brother, Gil, muttering as he entered the house and headed to the kitchen. Curiosity piqued, she got up and moved closer to the doorway, listening intently.

"... can't believe Danny did that to Ronnie... two-timing with her... Richie had to kick him out of the T-Birds..."

Betty's eyes widened in disbelief. Danny two-time Ronnie? That explained the tension in the air lately, but she needed to hear it directly from someone who knew Danny. She quickly grabbed her Pink Lady jacket and slipped out of the house, determined to find Kenickie.

Kenickie was tinkering with his car, the garage filled with the scent of motor oil and the soft sound of rock 'n' roll from a nearby radio. When the garage door creaked open, he was focused and lost in his work, and Betty stormed in.

"Kenickie," she called out, her voice a mix of anger and desperation.

Kenickie looked up, surprised to see her. "Betty? What are you doing here this late?"

Betty crossed her arms, her eyes blazing. "I need to know the truth. Did Danny two-time Ronnie?"

Kenickie sighed, wiping his hands on a rag. "Yeah, he did. But it's more complicated than that."

"Complicated how?" Betty demanded, her frustration evident.

Kenickie gestured for her to sit on a nearby stool, then leaned against the car, folding his arms. "While on their break. He's been seeing someone else for a month. And I think it's with that chick he told me he met at Frosty's who is new in town. I think her name was Sandy?"

Betty looked at Kenickie in disbelief.

"I told him to focus on Ronnie, and he said he will. But, apparently, he didn't since he was chasing another chick's undies." Kenickie mutters.

Betty felt a surge of anger. "Danny's such a coward. I can't believe he did this. Instead of working things out, he mopes and falls for the nearest chick he sees."

Kenickie sighed. "He knows he messed up. He's been telling me that nonstop on the house phone. He keeps beating himself up about it, but that doesn't change what he did."

Betty shook her head, a mix of sadness and anger in her eyes. "Poor Ronnie. She didn't deserve any of this."

Kenickie stepped closer, placing a comforting hand on her shoulder. "I know. But she's strong. She'll get through it, especially with friends like you by her side."

Betty looked up at him, her expression softening slightly. "Thanks, Kenickie. I just... I wish I could do more for her."

"You're already doing a lot," Kenickie reassured her. "Just be there for her. That's what she needs right now."

Betty nodded, feeling a bit of the tension ease. "Yeah, you're right. Thanks for telling me the truth. I should be getting home."

"Let me walk you home. It's late, and your brother will kill me if something were to happen to you." Kenickie grabs his T-Bird jacket, locks the garage, and walks away with Betty, ensuring she gets home safe.

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