Happy 100th chapter! I can't believe it has already reached this far.

Get ready for a big chapter and a surprise at the end of the chapter. Just so you know I had a rollercoaster of motivation while writing it. It has its ups and downs. Some parts feel longer than others. Others were a bit more chaotic than others. I hope you enjoy this nevertheless.

This chapter is 14508 words, and I am so sorry that it took so long to publish it. I was busy with assignments and then there was this chapter which was purposely published on my birthday! But anyway, enjoy the 100th-chapter special!

-= 🌟⭐️ =-
(Brian and Jay head to the beach near the beach house! The others are inside)

{Flashback- pre story}

Alyssa, seated on the front step of her house because she forgot her keys, watched her housemates and Leo cross the road from the sun to the shade. Each of them held onto a handful of bags filled to the brim with colour.

If Alyssa could recall earlier, Sienna mentioned that she had to head out with Lily and Leo to buy party supplies for the new neighbours' welcome.

They did invite Alyssa but she declined. After all party planning is not her interest- that's Sienna's duty. She has more better things to worry about such as competing with Gilbert on a dancing game and seeing him drop to the floor with every loss.

The three shoppers set foot on the dark and light green striped lawn of House 5. Lily stepped up to the step and looked down. "You're not inside?"

"I forgot the keys." Alyssa frowned and jutted her chin out.

Lily rolled her eyes. "Of course you did. Next time when you head out, don't forget them, okay?"

"Okay..." Alyssa nodded. She watched as Leo passed his bags to Sienna.

"Right here's everything!" Leo brushed his hands together, "Hope this isn't too much."

"It's not a lot. Don't worry about it." Sienna received the bags and gave a shy smile. "If it is, Alyssa would help." She turned her head to a focused Alyssa, "Right Lyssy?"

"Hm?" Alyssa looked up, "Sure, to whatever you said."

Leo laughed, "Glad to hear that. I wish you all good luck with decorating. I know with you in charge, it would be great." He brushed a hand through his golden blonde waves and smiled, "I'll see you later."

"Y-Yeah!" Sienna nodded excitedly, her cheeks heating up, "I'll see you later."

And with that Leo, after a quick wave of a hand, crossed across the road to where Houses 1 to 4 stood. Alyssa heard a dreamy sigh from her best friend. She got up from her spot and stood beside Sienna.

"He's so perfect." Sienna sighed.

"Who is?"

"Leo." Sienna nodded her head in the direction of House One.

There, at the house's driveway near their car was Leo. He chatted to Alex who scrubbed the car's doors with a soapy sponge. It wasn't long until they swapped places with Leo and headed inside. The two girls watched as Leo knelt and started scrubbing the car.

"Isn't he dreamy?" Sienna smiled, "I mean, look at him! Don't you think so too?"

Alyssa shook her head. As much as he is a great friend, he never appealed to her. So did the others. They are still nice nevertheless. Alyssa knew it had nothing to do with them and had more to do with herself. She had viewed this way with every guy she heard of. Every time she is asked about them- her answer would be no.

She never got the appeal when most of the girls gushed about a rising male singer who captured their hearts. She never got the appeal when Lily and Sienna gossiped about the male actors as they exchanged gossip. She even never stated a man when someone asked her about her celebrity crush (a question she despised).

The same applies here.

Alyssa watched as Sienna continued to wistfully watch. As much as she loved her best friend, Alyssa needed a way to distract her. It was a bit too obvious. "So what did you guys buy?"

Sienna turned to her friend, "Well. We bought a lot of stuff; streamers, party poppers, balloons, party cutlery and plates... I think you get the deal. We also helped Leo with picking a shirt for the party. He needed help. We had some snacks. You should have been there."

"I should have but I have to focus on winning against Gilbert."

"You love seeing him lose, do you?"

"Yes."

"Of course." Sienna rolled her eyes with a laugh. She raised a hand and waved to the entrance of Zodiac Street. Alyssa turned and noticed who Sienna was waving to.

Colin and Pete accompanied by Lizzy and Aika. Joined with the group were the dogs; Glimmer, Brownie and Cookie, who pulled their leads who were carried by Lizzy, Pete and Colin. The four friends gave a wave while the dogs wagged their tails and panted.

Colin passed Cookie's lead to Pete and skipped over to House Five. He bounded up to Alyssa and Sienna, a grin on his face. "Hello!" he sang.

"Hey, Colin! Where did you just come back from?" Alyssa asked as Sienna went back to admiring.

"Oh, I just went to the vet. With Pete." Colin smiled, "It's the dogs' checkup."

"But I noticed Aika and Lizzy with you two too. Were they at the vet too?"

Colin nodded. "Yep. They had the appointment booked before us. Glimmer had a rash."

"Oh no... is Glimmer okay?"

"Glimmer's okay. I am not sure what the vet told Aika and Lizzy, but knowing them- Glimmer is in great hands and will be okay." Colin crossed his arms, "Speaking of, they both offered to walk home with us and the dogs after our appointment."

"That's nice of them."

"Yeah. It was all Aika's idea." Colin then looked past Alyssa and waved, "Hey Lily."

Alyssa turned her head and noticed Lily stomping over from the front door to the group.

"Hey Colin," Lily gave a wave to Colin and stomped up to Alyssa. "Hey, are you two coming inside?"

"What do you mean?" Alyssa turned to her short housemate. She crossed her arms.

"You two have been standing out here for a while. Are you coming inside?"

"In a bit." Alyssa waved a hand. Her housemate sighed and crossed her hands.

"Alright. I'll be inside if you need me. The door is always open."

"Right, thanks, Lillian." Alyssa nodded and faced her housemate. Her housemate smiled and turned on her heel to head inside. Alyssa heard Lily close the security gate behind her before she turned back to her friends. "So, what do you want to talk abo-"

Alyssa never finished her sentence. Why? Cause Sienna and Colin faced away distantly, a frown on their face. Alyssa followed their gaze towards House One where Leo was. There Leo was talking excitedly as he scrubbed the car. Near him was Aika who laughed and chatted along.

Alyssa turned back to her friends who were still watching. It hurt her to see them in this state, especially for Sienna. Sienna and Colin were the ones who always had a smile. It was quite rare to see them in a gloomy mood. Usually, when that happened, Alyssa knew that something bad happened.

Nevertheless, she had to cheer them up. It's her duty now. She cleared her throat.

"Hey?" Alyssa's two friends broke focus and turned to her. "...Do you two want to play a game inside? I'll let you decide."

"I can't. I promised Skyler that I'd arrive home and help him out." Colin shook his head. Sienna however remained silent.

"Sienna?" Alyssa asked softly.

"I'll join later..." Sienna's gaze focused on Leo. Her voice grew soft, a visible crack in it. "Sorry."

"Don't apologise. Just head inside when you're ready."

"Mm..." Sienna looked down.

Colin eventually left and made his way to House 4. Alyssa knew this, she watched him go. But even then her best friend remained in her spot. Her eyes were locked on the same spot and she remained unusually quiet. Watching her in this state hurt. It hurt Alyssa knowing what happened. She wondered what she would do in the situation, or what she could do to help.

Alyssa stepped up to her friend and patted her back, "Hey." Her friend gave a small jump. "I'll be inside if you need me. You sure you don't want to join in now?"

"I'm sure." Sienna's voice grew deadset.

"Alright. I'll see you later." Alyssa nodded and made her way to the door. She had not heard anything back from Sienna. Her eyes were still on House One. Alyssa lingered on the front step of House Five.

With a frown, Alyssa opened the security gate and made her way inside.

- = {⭐️⭐️⭐️🌟🌟} = -
(A special border for a special chapter!)

"Achoo!" Carol sneezed into her tissue and sniffled. She rested her head on the couch and shivered under the blanket. But she was not the only one.

The people who danced in the rain were allocated to rest at House 6 under the watchful eyes of the others. Everyone was given blankets, pillows, tissues, warm towels as well as medicine for the cold. Everyone else who took no part in dancing in the rain took the role of nurses to the large group.

Except for Tahlia, Vivian, Sienna and Alyssa who had planned something for themselves later on. Carol knew this from the way Sienna was excitedly talking about it with Aika earlier today.

"A restaurant outing! That's nice!" Carol heard Aika exclaim behind her blue face mask as she checked on the temperatures.

Sienna, who was well away from the group, nodded. She, like Aika and the other nurses, also wore a blue mask but she kept herself far away to avoid getting sick. "Yeah, it is! I'm glad Vivian and Tahlia invited me and Alyssa over. It's happening later today and I am so excited about it!"

Aika finished checking Lizzy's temperature and moved on to check Skyler's. "That sounds exciting! What restaurant is it?"

"I'm not sure. Vivian told me it's fancy."

"Is it the restaurant we got kicked from?" someone asked weakly. Everyone turned to Tyler who asked that.

"No. It's a restaurant that is high in the sky as they claim. Unfortunately, it is a bit far from here. It's in Elisne which is a bit far but Vivian and Alyssa planned a booking."

"Alyssa planned something?" a muffled voice asked. It was Vincent who entered the room as he pulled on blue disposable gloves. "That's a bit scary."

"Well, Vivian helped her so things will be fine." Sienna crossed her arms, "Also Alyssa suggested the idea of the Awards Show in the evening. Something we cannot participate in. That is something you must give credit to."

"True," Vincent shrugged.

"Wait, why are you not joining us?" Gilbert asked sadly as he looked up from a card game with Leo, Colin, Giselle and Skyler. Despite most of the group being sick, House 6 made sure that there were games provided just to avoid boredom.

"Were you not listening? Sienna said she'll be heading out." Arlen rolled his eyes.

"Hey in my defence, my ears feel clogged!" Gilbert frowned, "Like you sound so quiet!"

"Fluids and mucus." Skyler nodded, "Common colds involve them."

The group remained silent except for someone coughing and a small "Nerd." from Pete. Skyler glared at whoever stated it.

Eventually, Sabrina and Cameron, who both wore masks and gloves, came to take over.

Cameron gave a wave, "Howdy y'all."

There was a chorus of 'howdy' from the group. Only Leo and Gilbert yelled out a 'yeehaw' which confused the group.

"Great you're here. I checked the temperatures from Tyler to Lizzy. Can you check the rest?" Aika passed the temperature monitor to Sabrina. "I need a break."

"No problem. We got this under control." Sabrina nodded. Her friend muttered a 'thanks' back and followed Vincent to the kitchen.

"Sienna," Cameron turned to Sienna, "Tahlia wants you upstairs. She needs help with picking a dress for the outing."

"I'll be there," Sienna nodded before she turned to the others, "That's my cue! See you later everyone!"

"Bye Sienna!" most of the group chorused (or sneezed) back.

It was quite some time from that conversation and a lot had happened since then. Now, for Carol, the day had stretched into the afternoon and some of the group had bloomed from the cold. As for others, they remained sick but they were more anticipated about the upcoming event.

Vincent, keeping his distance, calculated Carol's temperature with the monitor. He checked the temperature, "Good news it has cooled down."

"That doesn't help with the sneezing." Carol chuckled weakly.

"I know. But it's progress!" Vincent nodded. He spun the friendship bracelet he was given around his wrist.

The day before, the Water signs, after everyone had gathered inside from the rain, handed out the completed bracelets to the group. There were gasps and a couple shed tears, but everyone kept on the bracelets and vowed to never lose them.

Now they still kept the bracelets on. Carol even kept hers on. She never thought the vision of everyone wearing the bracelets would come. She had made a bracelet before, for Joel, but he refused to wear it because of how he viewed it as 'babyish'.

To see everyone in Zodiac Street wear it felt sweet to Carol. It was like a warm embrace. They were her true friends- no matter how much they wronged each other or not.

Carol's thoughts were interrupted when she heard loud footsteps and laughter from the staircase. Three girls, Vivian, Tahlia and Alyssa, stepped downstairs, linking arms. The three were already dressed up, styled and glamoured in outfits and makeup ready for dinner. The only person who wasn't there was Sienna but she left earlier from House 6 to get ready.

Alyssa and Vivian were both dressed in suits, with Alyssa in a crimson red while Vivian was in a cream one. Carol noticed Alyssa's hair was styled into a high ponytail which had appeared more formal from her usual rushed ones. Vivian's hair, however, is let out but done in waves. The two wore their friendship bracelets which matched the colour of their outfits.

Tahlia however glamoured in a burnt orange dress with butterfly sleeves. She also wore her friendship bracelet- a cream-coloured one. She carried a small black handbag close to her. Unlike the other two, Tahlia remained closed off. Carol couldn't help but notice that.

"Tahlia!" After getting her friend's attention, Carol placed her pointer fingers on the ends of her lips. She stretched her lips up to a smile. Tahlia gave a small smile back.

"You look fancy!" Cameron admired the three and stood next to Vincent, "Heading out?"

"Yep! To the outing." Alyssa nodded.

"Sounds fun." Cameron wrapped an arm around Vincent's shoulder and pulled him close, "Maybe me and Vincent can do that someday. Right, Vinny?"

With all eyes on him, Vincent nodded shyly. "Whatever you say, Cam." Inside his mind was left in a frenzy.

"Wait isn't Sienna coming with you?" Lily who was braiding Levin's hair into a long plait asked.

"She is, she just left to get ready," Alyssa answered. The doorbell rang. "I'll get it."

Alyssa strutted to the door and opened it widely. On the other side stood Sienna wearing a dark purple maxi dress. She also wore her friendship necklace, her purple friendship bracelet, silver dangling earrings and carried a small silver bag with her. Her braids were arranged into a high ponytail.

Sienna smiled, "Hi."

Alyssa on the other hand stared with an open jaw. She cleared her throat, "Pretty, you are very Sienna." (?????)

Sienna was silent.

Alyssa was silent.

Vivian and Tahlia were silent.

Everyone else was silent.

The author was silent.

"Sorry I mean, 'You're very Sienna pretty'. Wait f*** I meant-"

"Sienna, you're very pretty?" Sienna smiled and held her friend's hands.

"Yeah!" Alyssa nodded, her ears turning red, "Yeah. You got the words out of my mouth! Haha."

"Pretty, you are very Sienna!" Gilbert in the background quoted in a fit of giggles.

"Gilbert." Alyssa turned to him with a glare. "Shut up."

Sienna giggled and stepped inside, leaving her heels near the door and stepping inside. She gave a wave to the others before she joined Vivian and Tahlia, "Looking good everyone!"

"Thanks!" was Colin's voice in the background.

"I meant Tahlia, Vivian and Alyssa, but everyone else looks good too!" Sienna nodded. She heard Alyssa close the door and step over to the group.

There was another childlike giggle. "Pretty you are-"

Alyssa sighed, "Gilbert, shut your mo-"

"Be honest, this is friendship." Gilbert smiled innocently, "We will never forget this."

"Screw you." Alyssa glared.

Leo, who was lounging on the couch, sat up with a smirk, "Pretty, you are very Sienna."

"DUDE-"

"Okayyyy!" Vivian stepped in front of Alyssa. She looked down at her watch, "Well, look at the time. We all have to head out. Our reservation is waiting."

"But I was waiting for-"

"Alyssa." Vivian glared at her friend, "We need to go. All of us are ready."

"Wait, not yet." Sienna opened her bag and searched through it. She pulled out the other half of her friendship necklace- Alyssa's half. "Alyssa needs to wear this."

"The friendship necklace! That is perfect!" Alyssa unbuckled the hook and put it on. She swished her ponytail to the back afterwards, "Now we are ready."

"You four have fun, alright? Keep us updated, okay?" Vincent smiled.

"Do we have to? We want to enjoy the outing too." Vivian slumped her shoulders.

"I am not saying all the time. Just do it in your free time."

"Alright. Oh and guys. If you want anything around here, let Cleo know. All things must be approved by her. This is her house too."

"Got it. Anything else??"

"Nope. That is all" Vivian shook her head, "Right. Well, we better go! Good luck with the upcoming awards ceremony!"

"Bye!" some of the group sang back as Sienna, Alyssa and Vivian left together, opening the door and putting on their shoes.

Tahlia however lingered back. From the corner of Carol's eye, she caught a glimpse of Vincent passing a thumbs up. Tahlia smiled and gave a thumbs up too before she hopped into her heels and followed after the others, closing the door behind her.

"Pretty, you are very Sienna." Gilbert quoted before he laughed.

A still silence filled the room. Carol rested her cheek on her hand. She felt a tickle in her nose.

"Achoo!"

- ={⭐️⭐️🌟}= -
(The stars decide to celebrate in the beach house. Bob, Jay and Brian leave to buy party stuff)

The wind was the first acquaintance they made in the unfamiliar city. Elisne, a city named after the sun. A city doused in golden light. A city they never stepped foot in before.

Sienna stepped out from the passenger's seat and looked up at the skyscraper. She heard heels click behind her and assumed it was Tahlia, Vivian and Alyssa.

According to Vivian, the restaurant is in this very building and is located storeys high. Sienna looked up at the building's peak which had reached further away from her.

She felt a hand on her shoulder and turned to notice Alyssa, her ginger ponytail flowing in the wind.

"What are you doing?"

"Trying to see how tall this building is." Sienna turned to her friend, "Do you know what floor the restaurant is on?"

"Floor forty. It's one of the high floors." Alyssa looked up at the skyscraper.

"How do you know that?"

"Me and Vivian booked it?" Alyssa turned to her friend with a laugh.

"Oh right," Sienna clicked her fingers, "Forgot about that. Whoops." She heard a pair of heels click by her.

"Let's get going now," was Vivian's voice, "We got a reservation."

After stepping into the building and being provided with directions, the four took the elevator. Vivian pressed the button for floor forty and the four found themselves being lifted higher and higher. Calm music filled the small space and Sienna found herself swaying to the beat with Tahlia and Alyssa. Vivian noticed this and laughed.

Eventually, the music stopped when the four reached their level. The silver doors slid open to an open fancy space with three walls made of windows reaching to the ceiling. The space was crowded with mostly occupied clothed tables and used chairs. Among the soft piano was the clatter of plates, the murmured chat of the guests and the clinking of glasses from the bar which stood as the centrepiece.

The four girls stepped out of the elevator and marvelled around. They gasped at the sight of the lighting which bore a resemblance to floating lanterns. They pointed at the fake miniature waterfall near the hostess's desk. Tahlia even pointed out the view outside the window which was painted in oranges, purples and pinks.

"I wish we knew this place before. It would be a nice place to dine with the others." Sienna sighed to herself. She listened to Vivian at the hostess table who was discussing the booked reservation.

"That would be hard," Tahlia said pointedly.

"Why?"

"It would be a lot to handle. Plus we don't want a repeat of last time."

"Shame," Alyssa crossed her arms and watched a table of six friends clink their glasses together with laughter, "I found it fun."

"Well it appears that you arrived right on time," the group heard the hostess announce as she pointed to the tables, "If you go this way, your tables are tables 15 and 17. Do you need help finding where it is?"

Alyssa opened her mouth to speak, "Y-"

"No, thank you." Vivian interrupted, "I think we can manage from here." She let out a posh laugh. Alyssa furrowed her eyebrows, her mouth still agape. It was not long until Sienna closed it.

The hostess nodded and picked up a stack of menus. "Very well. If you do need assistance, do let one of the waiters know. But otherwise," she tapped the edge of the menus on the dark oak table, each aligning perfectly in place, "you are all set. Have a wonderful evening here."

"Thank you!" Vivian smiled before she ushered herself and the others to their tables.

Alyssa glared at her friend, "Why did you say no? She would help us out finding the table."

"Because this is something we are capable of finding ourselves. Plus I did not want to occupy more of her time." Vivian crossed her arms.

"But isn't it a hostess's job to help out?" Sienna wondered.

"It is. I just feel bad about giving her more work, that's all. Plus it would feel a bit awkward." Vivian then scanned the room, "Let's just find our tables. Tables 15 and 17 isn't it?"

"Yes." Tahlia smiled and spotted the assigned tables. Both tables were seated for two people and were close to each other. The tables also had plates and wrapped utensils ready for use, a vase of red tulips, and a plaque reading 'RESERVED'. "Are these the tables?"

Vivian checked the table numbers on each table. "Yes. Yes, they are." She turned to the other three, "Alright, here's the idea. Me and Tahlia would sit at this table over here, table 17. While we do that, you two are sitting at table 15."

"What if we wanted to sit at table 17?"

"Well, too bad Alyssa. Plus your table is better. You are seated near the window.  Tahlia hates sitting near great heights."

Tahlia nodded, "The window tables scare me."

"Alyssa, we can make do with table 15! It is my favourite number! I heard it means positive change."

"Really? I see it as just a number." Vivian laughed before she turned to Alyssa, "Still want to change tables?"

"Not anymore." Alyssa nodded and took her seat, "We'll make do with it." She added quietly, "It is Sienna's favourite number."

"What did you say?" Sienna asked.

"Nothing!" Alyssa shook her head, "It's nothing. Just take a seat."

Sienna blinked. She took her seat, shaking her head with a laugh. "Alright. Sure. Sure it was nothing. Sure."

"One more thing," Vivian pointed to the two fire signs, "Behave. We're in a restaurant."

"Relax, we know better." Alyssa rolled her eyes.

Vivian shook her head and took her spot with Tahlia. Immediately after everyone took their seats, two waiters strode over and passed the menus. As the four friends read through the menus, Sienna couldn't help but peek over the top. She noticed Alyssa nervously playing with her necklace as she muttered to herself, ears red.

Sienna smiled. If only she could tell her.

If only she could tell her.

-= {🌟⭐} =-
(Zoe and Briar gossip in the kitchen!)

At first, Cleo was a bit puzzled as to why the nursing group rushed around her home. Like a beehive, the small group buzzed around as they hurried in and out of the rooms, their minds occupied.

Cleo watched them all like a spectator in a play. She felt like she was being seated in a booth, her eyes set on the stage. Everyone else was in the audience watching the show unfold. On this made-up stage were the actors- the nursing group.

From the way they moved around, they were already well-versed in their craft. They would never stop and answer questions from the others on what they were doing. The small group made it clear that it is something worth to wait and see. After all, everyone is a part of an audience and their only duty is to watch.

Eventually, the hustle from the group had quietened down and the small group focused on cleaning up the living room. Only Vincent, Cameron and Sabrina were not present as they left to get something at Alex's request.

"Do you have any idea what is going on?" Cleo asked Skyler as they watched the house get busy. "Is something happening?"

"Hm.." Skyler hummed to himself, "Possibly? Isn't the awards show happening today?"

"Oh yeah..."

The awards show. The words clicked inside her head. How could she possibly forget about that? Ever since everyone had heard the idea, the talk of the awards show got around quickly. At every message and encounter, Cleo heard the two words pop in and out. She was surprised at how she didn't think about it earlier.

Probably because of the cold? She had assumed.

Cleo fiddled with the stringed corners of one of the cushions, "How do you feel about the awards show, Skyler?"

"Mmm, a bit excited, a bit nervous." Skyler said as he leaned back in his spot, "I never would have thought that we would experience it the first time. You know what I mean?"

Cleo nodded. Of course, she knew. It was something that she never thought would happen to her.

The only times she heard about the award show was when she and her sister, both young, sat in front of the TV and watched the awards play on for the first time. It was a dull and gloomy downpour as well. Cleo had distinctly remembered how she and her sister silently watched the screen as their parents behind them bickered about the nominations.

She remembered her mouth open at the sight of actresses and actors receiving their trophies and tearfully making a speech as they raised the small golden statue in the air. She remembered clapping along as the awards room broke in a thunderous applause- one that had drowned out her father's angry muttered curses.

Ever since then, they have kept updated on the awards. Every time a new show popped up, Cleo had often heard her sister make comments about the nominations. Sometimes she would be grateful to the winner, other times she would mutter words under her breath as she glared at the screen. Cleo on the other hand often found herself quiet as the show went on. Like her younger self, she would stare at the screen as the directors, singers, actors, actresses and composers stepped onto the stage. They were always glamoured in the most extravagant dresses and suits, eyes teary and mouths beaming as they raised their trophy. It warmed her heart.

She never thought that one day she would see it unfold in front of her eyes too- even when it is done for fun.

Her thoughts vanished at the sound of the doorbell. Cleo heard an "I got it!" from Aika followed by the sound of the front door opening.

"Glad to see you here." was Aika's melodic voice, "Do you need help with that?"

Cleo turned her head to the front foyer where she caught a glimpse of Vincent, Aika, Cameron and Sabrina. Vincent and Cameron both carried a bag with a bunch of bouquets inside. Sabrina however carried her laptop and what looked to be a wire and a cable.

"Also are those real?" Aika's eyes flicked down to the bags. Vincent shook his head.

"No, they're artificial." He reached into the bag and pulled out one of the bouquets of artificial flowers, "See?"

"What are the flowers for?" Leo asked as the four made their way into the living room. Sabrina knelt near the coffee table and raised the lid of her laptop before she tapped away.

"They're replacements for the trophies." Cameron answered, "As the idea was planned with little notice, we had no time to order trophies. So we got these bouquets instead. They are a lot more cuter as well."

"Eh, I prefer a trophy," Arlen muttered to himself.

"Cleo?" Sabrina asked from behind the open laptop. She held up a wire. "Where do you connect this? I need to connect the slideshow with the TV."

"Check the side of the TV. It should be there?" Cleo pointed to the TV. Her friend checked the TV's side.

"Found it." Sabrina connected the wire.

The TV screen flickered on a presentation slide titled 'Zodiac Street Award Show'. A few of the audience gasped.

"Are we doing the awards show now?" Lily asked.

"Not right now," Sabrina answered, "We still got a couple of things to set up."

Aika nodded, "Sabrina's right. We need to get some behind-the-scenes things ready. And once we're done..." She looked around the room, taking note of the many pairs of eyes on her, "We can start the show!"

-{ ⭐🌟⭐🌟⭐}-
(The other stars returned! Now everyone is decorating the house)

As she twirled her fork into the spaghetti, only two things were left on Tahlia's mind. The first is the atmosphere. She found herself settled in her spot as she listened to the soft piano intertwine itself with the chatter.

The scenery was gorgeous as well; Tahlia had found herself admiring the restaurant's interior. The view outside took the cake for her as Tahlia had found herself marvelling at the painted sky as it turned to dusk.

But despite everything going on, there was something on her mind. Vivian. The girl who spent time with her at her happiest. The girl who comforted her at her lowest. The girl who stood by her side no matter what.

The girl Tahlia saw as the one.

Speaking of Vivian, she was seated in front of Tahlia midway through her chicken schnitzels as she chattered on.

"...and I was thinking- what was her problem?" Vivian's voice emerged. She pointed in Tahlia's direction, "Like she does not know the things I experienced! What was her problem?!"

"What was whose problem?" Tahlia asked, snapping back to reality.

"Cleo. She had claimed a couple of days ago that I only think about myself than her and like, I am annoyed 'cause what do you mean? I don't think I did anything selfish." Vivian answered. Her eyebrows lowered afterwards. "Am I selfish?"

Tahlia shook her head hoping Vivian would smile. Instead, her girlfriend lowered her utensils and looked down.

"Really? So I'm not selfish?"

"You're not selfish. I mean it." Tahlia gave a smile. Her girlfriend gave a nod.

"I'm glad I'm not seen that way to you. I just don't get why Cleo said that I am."

"You do realise that everyone has different opinions, right? Positive and negative. It's something we must come to realise."

"..."

"And even if the views are negative, do not let that define you."

"...You're right but," Vivian's voice lowered to a whisper, "Cleo is my sister.  I watched her grow. I feel like I am doing something wrong when she said that..."

"Maybe you should talk to her on this?"

"I wish I could but you know what it is like."

Tahlia nodded. The Castor sisters, despite loving each other, have a unique bond. As she lived in the same house as them, Tahlia was a bystander to their days of bonding and their days of quarrels.

On days when the sisters quarrelled, Tahlia would find herself in the middle as she listened to the sisters bicker on their stance before splitting off. She understood both their stances after a talk with them: Vivian only wanted to protect her sister and Cleo wanted a time where her sister would not watch her like a hawk. Both are solid reasons that Tahlia hoped the sisters would talk to each other.

Only time would tell.

Suddenly there was a gasp. Tahlia and Vivian turned their heads to Sienna who made the gasp earlier. The girl was looking ahead, a surprised smile on her face. In front of her Alyssa, who was chewing, raised her eyebrows as she turned her head to the seat behind her. Tahlia followed their look to the next table.

At the next table sat a couple, a man and a woman who were both dressed in their finest clothes. The woman raised a hand delicately to her lips as she stared wide-eyed at the male and the item he was holding. An engagement ring.

The moment Tahlia saw the ring, her mind started to fog. The ambience blurred into inaudible voices and Tahlia heard a train of familiar thoughts whiz in her head.

Is it worth it?

Is it worth it?

Is it worth it?

Is it worth it?

Is it worth it?  Her head hurt as the words echoed through.

"...Tahlia? Tahlia?" she heard a muffled voice and turned to find Vivian. The moment she saw the concerned look on her girlfriend's face, everything returned to normal. "Tahlia? What's wrong?"

Tahlia heard the classic jazz music more clearly now. She straightened her back and plastered a smile to reassure Vivian. "Nothing's wrong. Just... thinking."

"Oh. I see." Vivian nodded. "Well if you-"

Before she got a chance to finish, thunderous applause followed. Tahlia and Vivian turned to the couple where the male slid the ring on his new fiancee's finger.

Vivian rolled her eyes and turned to Tahlia, "I don't get public proposals. Don't get me wrong, they can do whatever they want. I just don't like the idea of one done in public. It's a bit uncomfortable in my opinion, don't you think?"

Tahlia nodded. She wouldn't want that to happen to her either.

But a little voice rang in her head: Is it worth it? Is it worth it?

"I rather prefer private. It's less awkward and more meaningful. Like, I don't want the idea of having strangers watch the biggest moment. It would be so embarrassing, especially if it backfires.  Don't you think so?"

Tahlia nodded in agreement. The little voice still went on: Is it worth it? Is it worth it?

"If someone, you know, does it to me then I would require them to do it privately with no one watching. It needs to be memorable."

Tahlia's breath hitched. She traced a thumb over her knuckles.

"But as I was saying before we got interrupted," Vivian laughed lightheadedly. She gave a reassuring look to her girlfriend, "If you ever feel like something's on your mind, just tell me okay? I am here to support you. That is my duty. Because I love you."

Tahlia gave a small smile in return, "I love you too."

Even with Vivian's words, the train of doubt and thought never left Tahlia's station. It had parked itself stubbornly, chanting the same words again.

And again.

And again.

- {⭐⭐🌟} -
(Everyone is now getting ready for the party. Bob, Jay and Brian help each other with getting ready!)

"Alright Zodiac Street!" Cameron called out like a sports commentator, "Thank you all for your patience. I know it is not much, but your understanding can go a huge way."

The group cheered loudly.

"I'm Cameron. I'll be hosting this show alongside Sabrina, Vincent and Aika. And welcome to the first-ever Zodiac Street Award Show!" Cameron pointed a finger in the air making the group cheer loudly.

"Thank you, thank you, settle down everyone." Vincent silenced the group, "Now as you know a couple of us have seen award shows. But none of that is what we have in store for today. Rather the results would be shown on the slides followed by a pie chart."

"Allow us to give you an example." Sabrina tapped her laptop and turned to the TV where the slide was. The next slide popped up with the question 'Best host?'. Underneath the question were Cameron's, Vincent's, Aika's and Sabrina's names.

"The winner of the award would be given a bouquet." Aika picked up one of the fake bouquets and held it up, "It is optional that they would conduct a speech. Let's say from our example- Sabrina next slide, please."

Sabrina went to the next slide- a pie chart for the question. From the results, Vincent took the lead.

"In this case. Vincent would be the one getting the award." Aika smiled.

"I call bull. Cameron deserves the win." Sam announced.

"Now Samson, this is only an example. There is no need to be salty about this. Speaking of behaviour! Sabrina next slide."

"Please don't tell me it's a rules slide." Leo crossed his arms.

"It's a rules slide." Sabrina pulled up the rules slide.

From the rules slide, the group acknowledged that fairness, equality and kindness would have to be addressed when partaking in the awards. What the group did not know is that the rules were copied from the Slides Night.

Once the rules were announced, the hosts arranged themselves. Sabrina and Cameron offered to host the first five awards.

Speaking of, Cameron offered to host the first award, "Alright everybody! This first award is for the 'best contributor to society'. This award is handed to those who would do anything to make this society a better place. The nominees for this award are," Cameron pulled up the slide which showed the nominees, "Alex, Tahlia, Carol, Vivian, Levin and Aika."

"Oooh!" the group chorused.

"And, the winner of this award is..." Cameron pulled up the next slide, "Tahlia- who is absent- and Alex! aA tie! Second place is Levin, and everyone else nominated is third but congratulations!"

Alex blinked, "Me?" They got up from their spot and received their award as the applause thundered.

"And Tahlia, which I'll let her know actually..." Vincent got out his phone and started texting.

"Speech! Speech! Speech! Speech! Speech!" Leo, Skyler and Gilbert chanted with everyone else joining in.

"Ok! Ok! Ok!" Alex laughed. The group silenced themselves for the speech. "Uh... thank you all! I never would have truly imagined myself to get an award. I would like to dedicate this award to my mother- always bugging me. My housemates- also bugging me. Tahlia, who is not here. Sabrina, who has stuck by my side- I am lucky to have you as a best friend. And also, Lizzy who is seated at the front right now. So, yeah. Thank you all!"

The group cheered loudly, with Lizzy being the loudest of them all. Everyone quietened down when Alex grimaced and raised a palm to their head.

"You okay?" Sabrina whispered.

"I'm fine, thank you." Alex nodded back. They took their spot next to Lizzy.

"...Alright then. Let's get to the next award! 'Most hardworking'! This award is self-explanatory. Given to the one who works the most for a good cause. Our nominees are the same as last time. Everyone, please put your hands together for the winner of this award..." Sabrina showed the chart, "Levin!"

"Wait- huh?" Levin looked around the room as the group applauded.

"Everyone else is second place but Levin, do you want to come up here and give a speech?"

Levin shook his head. The thought of doing a speech with pairs of eyes staring him down had terrified him.

"That's okay, here is your bouquet." Sabrina passed the bouquet to Levin.

"Time for the next award!" Cameron took over the next award, "'Most honest'. Honesty is an important virtue, so it only makes sense that it is valued. Three nominees are strong in the results. Skyler, Sabrina and Sam."

Leo nudged Gilbert who giggled.

"The winner of this award is," Cameron showed the next slide, "Skyler! By one point! Sabrina comes in second and Sam third! Congratulations!"

"LET'S GOOOO!" Gilbert gave Skyler a quick hug. Skyler hugged back before he went up to receive his award. He also gave Carol and Sabrina a hug.

"SPEECH! SPEECH! SPEECH!" Carol, Arlen and Gilbert chanted with everyone joining in.

Skyler cleared his throat which made the group quiet, "Um. Where do I even begin? Thank you all for this award. Um, I would like to dedicate this award to Arlen, obviously. Gilberta for being-"

"LET'S GOOOO!" Gilbert cheered which made Skyler laugh.

"-for being awesome. Sabrina and Sam, you deserve this award too. And finally, Carol, for just being there for me at all times." Skyler locked eyes with her, "You deserve this award too."

"Thank you, Skyler." Sabrina nodded to her counterpart who took his spot next to Gilbert, "Alright- next award! 'Most unlucky'. There was only one nomination. Vincent."

"I saw this coming the moment I read the question." Vincent chuckled as he stepped forth and received his award, "No speech. Though I thought Tyler would also be nominated."

"Hey!" Tyler dropped his mouth, offended.

"Yeah bit surprising but moving on!" Cameron pulled his boyfriend into a side hug, "'Most likely to be rich'! For a self-explanatory title, five nominees came victorious. Giselle, Leo, Lily, Sienna and Cleo." 

"What an iconic lineup..." Vincent mused.

Cameron showed the next slide, "Three people are tied for first place who are Leo, Giselle and Sienna- who is not here! Cleo and Lily come in second!"

"Let's go!" Cleo gave a standing ovation as she watched the winners strode to receive their award. She was a bit disappointed that she never won but hearing that she got second place- that is enough for her. "Speech! Speech! Speech!"

"Speech! Speech! Speech!" everyone else chanted.

Giselle and Leo laughed and conducted their speech. Well, Giselle conducted her speech which was quick and straight to the point. Leo, however, pulled out his phone and played a video of a guy cheering "WOOOOO!".

"Thank you, Leo and Giselle." Sabrina nodded, "Alright everyone. It is now time for the award we are all waiting for! An award to wrap up the first half before we head to an interval. 'Most gay: vote Vincent'. Out of the nominees of Vincent, Vincent, Vincent and Vincent... Vincent wins with one hundred per cent of the votes! Congratulations!"

Everyone applauded loudly for Vincent who went up to receive his second award. He failed to contain his laughter for the announcement and faced the crowd awaiting a speech.

"You know, even for a joke question, I am grateful for you all for this nomination. I would like to dedicate this award to Cameron as well as all the Vincents in the world! You deserve this more than I do!"

The group cheered loudly as Vincent went to return to his spot.

"Alrighty everyone! That is Part One completed! We will return for more nominations but first a ten-minute break!"

The group cheered loudly once again.

-= {⭐🌟} =-
(Zoe and Briar get ready!)

Sienna, Alyssa, Vivian and Tahlia went back in the car. The four had finished dining in the restaurant and decided to head back to Thetowne. Vivian initially wanted to spend time around Elisne but the others preferred to head back home.

Plus Sienna had told them about the pride festivals hosted on Thetowne's coastline. She found out about it while at the restaurant. After hearing about the festival, the four decided it would be a no better time than to visit it.

"So, the festival happens every evening on the beach?" Vivian asked her eyes on the night traffic ahead.

"Well, it goes from late morning to the evening. It may be close to closing when we head there but it is good to check out." Sienna shrugged. "Even if we do miss it we can visit it another day."

"Yeah, but we do have the hiking trip to worry about."

"That is true."

"Gosh... the light is green and this car is refusing to budge," Vivian grumbled. She honked the car horn, "Move!"

The car in front of them moved ahead. Unfortunately for Vivian, the lights went from orange to red. She stopped her car.

"Stupid car." Vivian tapped her fingers on the steering wheel. 

"Wow, Vivi. I did not know that you got road rage!" Alyssa, in the passenger's seat, smirked.

"You shut your mouth. This isn't even road rage. It's annoyance. Some people are not born to be drivers."

The lights flicked to green and Vivian steered the car ahead.

The four arrived at the beach which to their delight, was still open. To Vivian's luck, she found an open parking space amongst the occupied ones.

Sienna checked her phone. "An hour before closing. We made it just in time! This place looks amazing!"

The others marvelled at the sight of the festival. It was very lit up with a line of stalls lining up across the boardwalk. On the beach, families and people lounged on colourful blankets and focused on the dark ocean ahead which lit up with a silvery glow. Children ran around as they played with glow-in-the-dark lightsticks, spinning rainbow pinwheels, and blowing bubbles that floated in the breeze.

"Right. I'm going to get a ticket. I'll join you girls later." Vivian sighed as she locked the car doors and tucked the keys in her pocket.

"Wait Vi, can we talk? There is something I want to talk to you about." Alyssa walked over to her friend, "Privately."

"Privately? Oh! Right. Sure." Vivian nodded before she turned to the other two, "We'll join you two later. Feel free to explore around the stalls."

"Got it, see you Vi, Lyss." Sienna waved a hand before she and Tahlia headed to the stalls.

The walk to the stalls was an awkward silence. Sienna and Tahlia weaved through the chatty crowd and had not spoken a word. Well, Sienna wanted to talk but every time she turned to Tahlia, her friend's face appeared more in thought.

Something's up.

"Tahlia?" Sienna asked, startling her friend, "What is up?"

"Oh, it's nothing. Just thinking about something." Tahlia gave a small smile in return.

"Hmm." Sienna frowned, "It's involving Vivian, isn't it?" Her friend gave a wide-eyed look. "Figured. What happened, Tahlia?"

"It's nothing bad. I am just wondering how Vivian would feel if I did something reckless."

"Huh? Which is?"

"I want to give her something but I feel like it's too soon. I mean you saw that couple earlier at the restaurant did you?"

The proposal. How could she forget? She remembered how she clapped her hands to the happy couple. She also remembered the look on Alyssa's face before she turned to Sienna, locked eyes with her and bashfully looked up.

Then it clicked. Sienna gasped, "Are you-"

"Um."

"Whoa. I'll be honest a bit too soon don't you think? But, you do you!"

"That's what I am worried about!" Tahlia frowned, "I feel like this is too soon. I feel like this would ruin everything. I only acted because I thought it was right but I have no idea what I am doing and I don't know whether Vivi would hate me for this."

"She won't hate you."

"I don't know!" Tahlia stopped in her tracks and covered her face, "I'm scared of what might happen, Sienna."

Sienna paused and patted her friend's back, "There, there. I feel like Vivian would never hate you for this. Perhaps you can ask her for her views on it."

"You want me to ask Viv?" Tahlia lowered her hands. Her eyes were glossy when they got uncovered.

"Yeah! Indirectly, though! But be honest, it is an important virtue. Just say it like a hypotherical question. Then let that determine your choice."

"..."

"I mean, it is up to you. How about this? How about we get something from these stalls, hm?" Sienna reached out and wiped the single tear off her friend's cheek, "Sounds good to you?"

Tahlia nodded, wiping her eyes immediately.

"Where do you want to go? We could go to that food stall? They're selling potato twirls!"

"Uhm, maybe not food." Tahlia clicked her tongue, "We just ate."

"Right, right. Then how about we go to that stall over there with the lightsticks and pinwheels? We can buy them as a souvenir! We'll buy something for ourselves and we buy Vivian and Alyssa something too! Sounds good?"

Tahlia nodded back.

The two made their way to the nearest stall- a bright and colourful one selling lightsticks, bubbles, pinwheels and toys.

The man behind the stall's counter looked down at the two, "Good evening ladies! What do you want to purchase today?"

"Hello!" Sienna looked up, "I'll take two lightsticks. The heart and the star one."

The shopkeeper picked up two of the lightsticks on display, "And your friend?"

"Two pinwheels. Please." Tahlia pointed to the rainbow pinwheels spinning on display. The shopkeeper picked the two closest.

"Anything else?"

"No, that would be all."

Tahlia ended up paying for the lightsticks and pinwheels. After receiving their souvenirs, the two girls headed for a nearby bench to wait for Alyssa and Vivian.

Sienna twirled around with her heart lightstick, laughing. "This is so cool!" She smiled, admiring the lightstick's different colour options. She then pointed the light glowing orange in Tahlia's direction, "How come you didn't buy the lightsticks?"

"I must have thought they were expensive." Tahlia shrugged.

"I mean yeah, they kind of are. But let's let that slide. This day has been fun!" Sienna sat down next to her friend and took out her phone, "We should take a picture to remember this."

"Do you always do that?" Tahlia laughed and watched her friend position her phone sideways.

"Obviously! It's for core memories! Now smile, Lia."

Tahlia chuckled and plastered on a small smile. She heard Sienna click the phone camera three times before she lowered it for a closer look.

"This is adorable! We should spend time some more." Sienna passed her phone to her friend.

"We should. Just like how Vivi and Lyss spend time together."

"It will be so cool, I can tell."

Tahlia nodded. She focused on the photos again until something caught her eye in the corner of the images. She zoomed in close to the first image and her eyes widened when she saw a familiar guy with a backwards cap.

Joel? Why is he here?

Alongside Joel was a brunette girl who appeared to be smiling up at him in the first photo. Tahlia swiped to the next one where the girl had her arms around his shoulders. In the third photo, she had her forehead pressing against his.

Huh.

"Sienna, Joel's in the pictures."

"Really?" Sienna got her phone back and noticed Joel in the photos, "Ew. Who is that girl he's with?"

"Could it be Lila?"

"Maybe? Is he still there?"

The two turned to the spot where Joel was last in. To their disgust, he is still there, arms wrapped around the other girl.

"Why is he here?" Sienna narrowed her eyes.

"Probably because it is a public event. Never expected to see him here."

"Yeah," Sienna nodded and looked around the area. Her lips pulled up into a smile when she saw two familiar friends talking loudly, "Ah they're here." She turned her head to Tahlia, "Are you still going to talk to Vivian about your situation?"

"Thinking about it."

"Alright. Just make sure you are honest to her, okay? And Tahlia," Sienna smiled warmly, "If you need anything, just remember that I got your back."

"Thanks, Sienna. You're a good friend." And she meant it.

Alyssa and Vivian walked over and took their spots on the bench. The two received their presents from Tahlia and Sienna; Alyssa got the star lightstick while Vivian got the pinwheel. The four then decided to spend their time taking a stroll down the boardwalk.

After all, what better way is to spend the night enjoying while it lasts?

-= {⭐🌟⭐🌟⭐} =-
(The stars are ready to party!)

"Alright! We're back for the second part of the awards!" Vincent announced loudly to the group, "The last award we were left on was the joke one. So the show must go on!"

The group cheered loudly. Everyone had taken their seats after a quick ten-minute interval. Aika and Vincent took over the roles of the hosts while Sabrina and Cameron took their spots in the audience.

A few audience members were concerned about whether Sabrina and Cameron would fall ill but the two previous hosts brushed it off. They wanted to rest.

"In the last award, I won 'most gay vote Vincent'. For this topic it is similar. This award is given to the 'most gay'. I have no idea what they meant but from the answers given we got five nominees." Vincent went to the next slide, "Nominated for this award we have Alyssa-"

"Alyssa?" Tyler called out. Lily, Phoebe and Levin exchanged a look.

"Yes, Alyssa. But we also got Gilberta, me, Cameron and Pete. ...Wait why am I in this award? I won the last one."

"Why not?" Pete smiled.

"Yeah but, why?"

"Why not?"

"I give up. Anyways, the winners for this award goes to," Vincent went to the graph of the award, "Well look at that! We got a tie between Gilberta and Cameron! Alyssa is in second place, and the other two are in third! Congratulations!"

"Still confused why Alyssa is nominated," Tyler whispered to Lily as they applauded and watched the two nominees receive their awards.

"Really gets you wondering," Lily shook her head as she hid a laugh. She then chanted with the others, "Speech! Speech! Speech!"

"I got a speech!" Gilbert announced. He cleared his throat, "Wow guys, how did you know?"

"That's a terrible speech!" Arlen's voice called out.

"Shut up, Arlen! I am trying my best here." Gilbert pointed at his housemate.

Vincent rolled his eyes and turned to Cameron, "What about you Cam? Got a speech?"

"Yes actually," Cam cleared his throat and all eyes fixed on him. He posed, "I'm gay. Thank you."

And the crowd goes wild! Vincent hid behind his hand to contain his laughter. "Thank you, Cameron! Please give a round of applause to the winners!" Everyone applauded for the two as they took their spots. Vincent turned to Aika, "Aika, it is your turn."

"Right thank you, Vincent." Aika turned to the laptop and showed the next slide, "'Most funniest'! This award is handed to those who can make everyone crack up. We got two nominees here."

"Two? For most funniest?" Leo blinked, "That's so sad. I thought there would be more. Everyone is so serious."

"Who are the two nominees?" Phoebe asked.

"Gilberta and Pete."

"Pete?" Skyler turned to his housemate who even appeared confused.

"Yes, Pete. But anyways out of the two, one took the prize!" Aika turned to the winner, "It's Gilberta. It was a close match but Gilbert won."

"Oh wow, another award? Thank you!" Gilbert got up from his spot and received his bouquet. He looked out to the audience where most of the group chanted 'Speech'.

His eyes locked onto the other nominee. Pete. The person whom he had known for a long time. The person who stands in the background, listening in. The person who Gilbert had voted as the funniest because he saw his friend that way.

Gilbert gestured a hand, "Pete. Over here."

He spotted his friend exchanging a look with Colin. After a nudge from Skyler, he got up from his seat and joined his friend up front.

Gilbert handed the bouquet to him, "I think you should have this."

"Huh?" Pete blinked, "Are you sure?"

"Yeah. I already got an award anyway."

"Awwww...." everyone chorused.

"Wait is this allowed?" Vincent whispered. Aika nodded back.

Pete looked down at the colourful bouquet of artificial flowers in his hands. He smiled and hugged his friend.

"Ok, ok I think we should carry on," Vincent ushered the two to their spots. He knelt near the laptop, "We got 'most alpha' as the next nomination. For the nominations we have-" He looked at the screen. Then his eyes widened, "...!"

"What is it?" Aika asked.

"We got two nominations... Gilberta and Arlen."

"Why is Gilberta there?" Lizzy wondered.

"I don't know." Vincent had a straight face as he looked on the laptop, "The results are Arlen with one vote and Gilberta with the rest."

The room fell silent and everyone exchanged looks.

"YES!" Arlen cheered, "I am free! I may be nominated but I am free!"

Then Vincent cackled loudly. Everyone turned to him, their eyes wide.

"I got you good! You should seen the look on your face! I switched the results, meaning-"

"...Meaning?" then Arlen's eyes widened, "No. No-no-no-no-no."

"- that Gilberta takes second place with one vote."

"NO, NO, NO, NO, NO!"

"And..." Vincent showed the pie graph on the next slide, "Arlen snatches first place with everyone else! Congratulations Arlen! You are the true one!"

The audience roared into applause. Arlen, however, stood in silence with his eyes on a smirking Vincent.

"How could you?" Arlen whispered as he shook his head.

"Sorry, I just felt like stirring things up."

"Speech! Speech! Speech!" the group chanted. Giselle and Skyler stood up and guided Arlen to the stage. Vincent passed the bouquet to the silent winner.

"Uhm," Arlen furrowed his eyebrows. "Alright. I'll give a speech. Let me make it very clear that I am not a wolf! I do not act like a wolf. I am not a wolf!"

"This is a terrible speech!" Gilbert called out, "BOOOO!"

Everyone else joined in the booing.

"I am not proud to be the winner of this award. I preferred if Gilbert won." Arlen raised his voice amongst the booing.

"Get this guy off the stage!" Cameron pointed at Arlen.

"Thank you, Arlen. You can head back to your spot now." Aika interrupted.

Arlen, Giselle and Skyler took their spots.

"Alright. Let's move to the next nomination." Aika stifled a giggle as Arlen glared at the hosts. "The next award is for 'Best chef'! This award goes to the one who can cook the best. And the nominees are." She checked the next slide, "....?!"

"What is it?"

"I did not see this coming. The nominees are Carol, Levin, Sabrina and Lizzy."

"Why am I there?" Lizzy asked.

"That's what I am confused about. Anyways the winner of this award is," Aika went on the next slide, "Lizzy who overshadowed Levin by one point. Carol and Sabrina are tied for third. Well, congratulations Lizzy!"

There was a round of applause as Lizzy got up from her spot and received her bouquet. She looked over the audience and raised the flowers close to her face.

"Speech! Speech! Speech! Speech!" She heard Giselle call out with everyone else joining in.

Lizzy cleared her throat which lowered the cheers to silence. "Thank you. I'll be honest I never expected myself to get an award. 'Best cook' as well. Did you all do this as a joke?"

"Uh..." some of the audience murmured.

"Doesn't matter that much. But anyways, the award." Lizzy looked down at the colourful bouquet, "It's about time I get honest with everyone. I have been practising my cooking lately! My previous attempts- they were bad let's be honest."

"Yeah, you burnt the cookies one time." Aika pointed out.

"I know but it was my first time. We can never be complete masters on the very first go. All it takes is practice and patience to get to where you are. So I kept going. I know everyone did not like my previous attempts. It hurt but I kept going." Lizzy continued, "I read through the recipe books. I checked the time accurately. I kept making small portions for myself and giving it a taste. And from there I kept going. I wanted to share what I created with everyone else, but only one can hope."

The audience exchanged looks with each other.

"And you know what? The meals may not be good. They may not be bad but I am proud of myself. I am proud of those who kept going. I was taught when I was younger that the trail will be rocky but to get past it, we must keep going one step at a time. Step by step, bit by bit and eventually we will arrive at the top, our heads up high. I find this message meaningful to share, even if it's for best cook." Lizzy raised her bouquet in the air, "I'd like to dedicate this award to everyone. The experts, the intermediates and most especially the beginners. Whatever you are facing, keep moving forward. You are doing amazing."

There was silence. Giselle got up from her spot and applauded. Arlen followed her and applauded. Alex. Levin. Everyone else. Lizzy was met with a loud standing ovation.

Aika reached an arm out and squeezed her friend in a hug, "You did so good! That speech has taste!"

Lizzy giggled, "Thanks, Aika."

"Speaking of taste!" Vincent slid in, "Nice! I nailed it. But it's about time we get to the next award! 'Best music taste'!" He continued after Lizzy took her spot next to Giselle who wrapped her arms around for a tight hug. "Now this is the question with the most doubt. But it has the most nominees!"

"Oooh!" the audience chorused.

"For this award, we got nine nominees. The nominees are Carol, Leo, Lily, Sabrina, Sam, Sienna, Cleo, Aika and Phoebe. And the winner is..." Vincent went to the next slide, "Aika! With two points ahead of the others! Everyone else is tied second!"

"Oh?" Aika placed a hand on her chest. She heard everyone cheer loudly and smiled when Vincent passed her the bouquet. Aika looked out to her friends.

"Speech!" everyone's voice which was led by Leo, Lizzy and Giselle, chanted.

"Thank you, everyone!" Aika smiled and silenced the chants. She looked down at the audience. Pairs of eyes awaited her speech. "Best music taste! An award, though I am happy to get, has a lot of meaning. Music is something that is everywhere. It is something we find ourselves listening to at our best moments to even our lowest. But it is very broad. We all have different tastes when it comes to music. Whether it is K-pop, pop, rap, country. The most popular artist or the most underrated one. We all have different tastes when it comes to music. I like to dedicate this award to all the different music enjoyers out there!"

The crowd cheered loudly.

"But either way, we now move to the next award!" Aika went to the next slide, "'Best mother'! Our nominees for this are Vivian, Carol, me and Vincent. Uh... who suggested the question?"

"Alyssa," Lily answered.

"Probably to cause an argument," Aika shook her head, "And the winner is..." She went to the next slide, "Vivian- who is not here. She won by one point. Carol is second while me and Vincent are tied for third."

"These are some close results!" Cameron examined the pie chart.

"Alright, I got to keep clean on something." Carol interrupted, "I voted for Vivian."

"So that's who the one point is..." mused Gilbert. "I thought you would vote yourself."

Carol shook her head, "I could have but that's not fair, isn't it? Plus Vivian is the one keeping track of everyone. It is only fitting that she gets this award."

"Aww, I was hoping you would win," Gilbert looked down, "Oh well, I see your point."

"Congratulations Vivian! Even though she is not here. Someone let her know alongside Sienna." Vincent announced. From the corner of his eye, Cleo and Lily got out their phones and started texting, "The next and final award is 'most artistic'! Now this was a vague one."

"When we wrote the question, we meant it to focus on different fields. Not just visual arts." Leo pointed out. The other remaining fire signs nodded in agreement.

"Oh, well I did not see it that way but we'll clarify this question next time." Vincent went to the next slide, "The nominees for this award are Tahlia, Colin, Lily, Lizzy, Sam and Phoebe. And the winner is," Vincent went to the next slide, "Colin! Who took over most of the pie chart! Everyone else had one vote. Congratulations!"

There was a loud round of applause. Colin blinked and hugged Skyler and Pete close to him. He got up from his spot and made his way past the cheering crowd.

Before he tripped over and fell. There was a loud collective gasp from everyone else.

"Colin?" Aika and Vincent ran over to the winner.

Colin raised a thumbs up. He raised himself from the ground and made his way to the front. After receiving the bouquet from Aika, Colin waved to the audience who cheered louder.

"Speech! Speech! Speech!" the other water signs chanted with everyone else including the hosts joining in.

"Thank you, thank you everyone." Colin spoke out, "Uh.. I am honoured to receive this award of 'most artistic'. If I were to be honest the question was a bit too vague. Needed more refinement but, yeah." His eyes traced the bouquet in his hands from the twelve flowers in pink, purple and white to the stems held together by white satin-tied ribbon.

Colin looked up at the audience. He spotted most of the group with bouquets. But there were a few with nothing. His shoulders slumped.

"Got a question, how many bouquets do we have left in the bag?"

Vincent checked the bag, "Five but three are for Tahlia, Vivian and Sienna."

"So there are two remaining?"

"...Yes?"

"Mmm." Colin passed his bouquet to Aika, "Please hold onto this." He then turned to a puzzled Vincent after passing the bouquet to a confused Aika, "Can I have the two bouquets please?"

"Sure?" Vincent passed the two bouquets over.

Colin thanked him and looked down at the bouquets. He looked up where pairs of eyes awaited his speech, "You know. Bouquets are a unique choice for an award. They are aesthetic pieces and are there to brighten the place. But as I look at the bouquets passed out, I wonder one thing: what is an award? Now I know the answer, that was a rhetorical one but I want to know its purpose. What makes it so special?"

Silence.

"In front of me, I see beautiful faces. I see the people who I have the pleasure to meet. I only see that most of us have awards. And I congratulate you all. But then I see the ones with nothing. What about them? An award is something used to celebrate achievement. But what about the others? The runner-ups? The ones who are nominated? The ones who went home thinking they would get something only to get nothing. In the end, award is just a word. A word that needs more meaning here."

Colin pulled the ribbons off the stems. There was a collective gasp. Gilbert screamed.

"This award is dedicated to everyone! But first, let's honour those who did not get anything. Starting with Phoebe for being the most imaginative."

He tossed a flower to her. Phoebe caught it immediately.

"Pete for being the most happiest and an amazing person." Colin tossed the flower to him.

Pete caught the pink artificial rose in his hand and smiled.

"Cleo for being the most classy, and Sam for being the most judgemental but we love that for him."

The two received their flowers from Colin.

"Sabrina for being the most intuitive and also the most intelligent. Also thank you for hosting."

Sabrina caught her flower and held it close. She thanked him.

"Lily for being the most loyal. Carol for being the most kindest."

The two girls got their flowers and exchanged a smile.

"Tyler for being the most grounded."

"Nice!" Tyler caught his flower.

"And Alyssa, who is not here. But she deserves an award for being the most bravest." Colin looked down at the flowers, "We should also thank the hosts for hosting."

He tossed the flowers to Vincent, Aika and Cameron.

"And finally, everyone else! You all deserve this award too!" Colin tossed the rest of the flowers to his friends.

There were cheers as everyone caught their fragment of the award. Colin received his bouquet and looked down at the five spare flowers: his, Alyssa's, Tahlia's, Vivian's and Sienna's.

He looked up and smiled, "That is all."

The group chanted loudly, "Co-lin! Co-lin! Co-lin!"

"Colin!" a voice called out. He turned to the voice and was pulled into a tight hug by Pete who ran over. Soon Skyler joined in the embrace. Then Sabrina, Carol and Phoebe. Colin smiled and hugged them close.

"What a perfect ending to the awards! Well, hopefully everyone enjoyed it." Vincent smiled.

"That was so fun!" Gilbert smiled, "We should do this again sometime!"

Everyone else agreed with him.

Vincent nodded, "We should. But anyway, that is all for the awards show. Thank you for participating and have a good night!"

Once again, everyone cheered.

-= {⭐️⭐🌟  🌟⭐️}=-
(Bob, Zoe and Briar party! Meanwhile Jay admits something to Brian. Oooh?)

Tahlia and Vivian arrived home at Zodiac Street. The two had returned from spending the night at the carnival at the beach. Though the night was fun, Vivian was exhausted. She couldn't wait to run back inside and get some sleep.

She pulled the car onto House 6's driveway. The house was the only one lit up. Everything else was left in the dark.

Vivian parked the car. "Made it back at home!" She turned her head towards her girlfriend. "That was a fun outing. We should do it more often."

"I agree." Tahlia nodded. She looked down and twirled with her bracelet.

Vivian noticed this and frowned, "Hey." Her girlfriend turned back, "You alright? You have been quiet the entire drive here. What's up?"

Tahlia frowned, "Well." She breathed out afterwards, "May as well ask the question."

"Ask what?" Vivian tilted her head.

"I want you to be honest with me, Vivi. It has been running through my head. But please be honest."

"I will. But Lia, you're scaring me. What is going on?"

"Vivian, what are your thoughts on getting proposed to?"

"Oh, well." Vivian crossed her arms, leaning back in her seat. "I like the idea of it but I don't want it happening to me now. Probably after a few years would be better. I do not feel ready for it now."

"I see." Tahlia nodded.

"Why'd you ask? Wait- are you planning on-"

"Was." Tahlia interrupted. "The thought did come up but after thinking about it. I felt like it was too soon."

"I see. Hopefully I did not ruin it."

"You didn't ruin anything. I'll be honest, your answer made me a bit more relieved." Tahlia laughed.

"Really?"

"Yeah!"

"Oh! Well, I'm glad to hear that." Vivian giggled. She faced the house ahead. "But back on topic, I do like the idea of a ring. Perhaps not an engagement one. But something like a- uh. Wait, what is it called?"

"A promise ring?"

"Yeah, that! I really wish I could have that."

"You know, I got something related to..." Tahlia smiled as she opened her bag. She pulled out the small green bag which she had bought with Vincent earlier. She passed it to Vivian. "Open this."

Puzzled, Vivian pulled open the bag and reached inside.

She got out a small card and read it aloud, "Hello darling. I got you this promise ring. Hope you enjoy it. I love you so much. Tahlia."

Vivian gasped and reached into the bag. There she got out a small black box. She flipped open the lid and was met by a simple bronze ring with a tiny heart diamond.

"I got this as a backup." Tahlia smiled, "Do you like it?"

Vivian teared up, "Tahlia... I love it! But wait-"

"I was planning to give you this. Just I am not sure about the other option."

"Tahlia..." She pulled her girlfriend into a hug, "You're the best."

Tahlia smiled and hugged her back, "I could say likewise." She pulled back and traced a thumb over Vivian's tear-stained cheek. "Come on. The others are probably waiting inside."

When the two got to the front door, only three people greeted them at the door: Lily, Cleo and Colin. Lily and Cleo immediately started a conversation.

Colin, however, passed a flower each to Tahlia and Vivian. "Here you go! One flower for you and one flower for you! I got flowers for Alyssa and Sienna but I don't see them."

Vivian's eyes widened.

"Yeah, I don't see them too." Lily placed her hands on her hips, "I thought they were with you."

"Uh- s***." Vivian stepped back to the door, "Hold on, me and Lia will be back. Ciao!" Then she raced out the front door to the door.

"Uhhh, yeah! Won't be long!" Tahlia stepped to the door.

Then she hurried out to the car, leaving the three stunned in their spots.

-= {⭐️🌟} =-
(Jay and Brian hug! Awww)

"Aw, shmucks. They left us." Alyssa looked at where the car once was.

She and Sienna stood near the ticket printer under the boardwalk street light. The boardwalk had just reached its quiet hour. The sky had darkened, the lights had flickered on and everyone had commuted to their homes to sleep.

Everyone but Alyssa and Sienna.

"How dare they leave us behind!? Like that was rather dumb of them." Alyssa huffed as she crossed her arms.

"They could have forgotten?" Sienna shrugged. Alyssa narrowed her eyes.

"How dare they."

"Anyways, we could wait here? If nothing happens, we can call them. Positive thinking."

"But what if-"

"Shhhh..." Sienna placed a finger on her dear friend's lips. "Positive thinking."

Alyssa nodded, her ears read. "Right. Positive thinking. What do we do now? The carnival is closed." She pointed to the boardwalk- now with empty lines of stalls all with closed shutters.

"Umm... we could walk on the beach?" Sienna stepped up to the wood planked stairs leading to the sand. She took off her heels and picked them up. "There isn't much we could do other than that."

Alyssa nodded once again, "Sure we can do that." Then she, like Sienna, took off her shoes and walked down with her from the boardwalk to the sand.

The walk to the shoreline was quiet- there was no talk and no outside voices. Only the waves crashing under the silver glow and the cold breeze were the only noise.

Alyssa looked up at Sienna, her only companion in the night. The girl had her head up high, a genuine smile on her face.

Alyssa then looked down at herself. Closed and observant. That was not her usual self.

"How did you find tonight?" Sienna ended up asking as they stopped in front of the waves.

"Pretty good!" Alyssa nodded. "The carnival was fun. The restaurant, well, it was good too. The food is good."

Sienna smirked, "Just the food?"

"Spending time with you was great too!"

"Aww," Sienna smiled before she ruffled her friend's hair, "You're so cute."

Once again, Alyssa's ears turned red. She hated how much she found herself blushing easily. Every time Sienna talked, Alyssa found herself turning pink. She had to cover her ears and hide herself every time.

She figured that it was now or never. She wanted to stop with the blushing. Perhaps it is time to tell her.

"Sienna?" Alyssa asked, "Can I admit something to you?"

"Hm? What is it?" she gasped, "Was it a cri-"

"No! Not that. It's something more, well, personal." She looked at Sienna for an answer.

"Go on." her friend nodded.

"I kinda have a crush on you."

"I know."

"I'm sorry but every time we talk I always blush and- wait," Alyssa blinked, "You knew?"

Sienna gave a nod.

"Wait, how?"

"Magic."

"Magic? How did you..."

"I'm joking about the magic part. I knew this for a while. You were obvious." Sienna giggled. "I noticed your behaviour. Your blushing. The way you suggested the necklaces, which we did wear but you seemed to lose yours."

Alyssa raised a hand to her necklace. She could not feel her necklace. Oh no.

"Plus, everyone knew," Sienna started, catching Alyssa's attention, "It's very cute of you, Ally."

Oh. Alyssa rubbed her hand up and down her arm, "Well, uh, surprise? I hope this does not, you know-"

"Ruin everything?"

"Yeah." Alyssa looked down. "Sorry."

"Don't apologise."

"Why? I feel like I ruined this for you."

"What if I say that you didn't."

Alyssa turned to her friend, "Huh?" The next thing she knew, Sienna held both of her hands.

"I feel the same way too, Ally." Sienna smiled and walked up to Alyssa, "I mean it."

"Oh," Alyssa felt her cheeks heat up. She nodded slowly, a small smile on her face, "Oh. So what does this make us?"

"Girlfriends." Sienna smiled, "Insomniac girlfriends."

Alyssa nodded, smiling back. "I like that."

"Now I got a a question for you. Where do I stand as compared to the donut? Am I better or not?"

"Uh." Alyssa forgot about her affection for the donut, "I see you both on the same level. I find both of you special."

"I'm glad." Sienna smiled, swinging her hands with Alyssa's. "I'm glad."

Alyssa let out a laugh. Suddenly she heard a familiar voice.

"ALYSSA! SIENNA!"

The two turned to the sound where a familiar girl with split hair and a cream suit ran towards them. Vivian.

She embraced Alyssa and Sienna into a hug, "Oh you're here! Thank goodness!"

"Vivian Castor!" Alyssa pulled herself and Sienna back from the hug. She held onto her new girlfriend's hand. "How could you leave us behind?!"

"I'm sorry! I really am."

"I do not forgive you."

"Alyssaaaaaaa....." Vivian whined like a child. "Wait I know something that could help." She pulled out a familiar friendship necklace. "I found your necklace. You dropped it near the ticket machine."

Alyssa gasped, "Okay, you are forgiven!"

"Well, that was easy."

"Don't make me take that back, Vivian."

"Okay..."

"Great, you're both here." another voice joined the group.

Alyssa recognised that voice. Tahlia. She was mad at her too but Alyssa knew she could not stay mad at her.

Tahlia looked down at the intertwined hands, "You're together?"

"Yep. Just got together." Sienna shared a smile with Alyssa.

"Aww, congratulations!"

"Did you ask Vivian the question you wanted to ask?"

"She did," Vivian turned from the argument to the conversation, "She also got me a promise ring. I told her I was not ready for engagement yet."

"That's fair." Sienna nodded.

"Either way, we should get back. We promised Lily and the others that we won't be long."

"Yeah, don't want to make Lily mad. Plus it's cold out here." Tahlia shivered.

"Aww, but I like it here." Sienna slumped her shoulders, "Can't we just stay here a bit."

Vivian sighed and pinched the bridge of her nose, "Five minutes. Five minutes here and then we have to head back."

"Yes!" Alyssa and Sienna cheered.

And together, the four standing side by side, looked out towards the glow of the moon and the darkened waves until they had to leave.

-= {⭐️🌟⭐️⭐️🌟} =-
(The stars party together! Jay and Brian are, holding hands?)

{Flashback}

Their first holiday together as a full group was a blast, especially for Alyssa. She had enjoyed the times when she rode on the rides and even travelled around with her closest friends. She did not want to admit it but she even enjoyed that alarm Vivian blasted, even though everyone else hated it.

She did not, however, enjoy the love drama. It hurt her as she watched Sienna get a shattered heart as she watched Leo. It even hurt when things escalated and Sienna was left with a broken heart.

They did make up under Alyssa's words but she couldn't help but wonder how Sienna felt now.

Now the large group had returned to their houses. Everyone was wheeling their luggage inside, prepared to rest. Lily had already rolled hers in and ran inside the house for a nap.

Alyssa pulled the handles of her red luggage, the bags' wheels bumping over the sidewalk cracks as she walked to House 5. She reached the closed front door and searched around her pockets.

She forgot her keys. And Lily is probably sleeping inside.

Terrific.

"What are standing around for, Miss Alyssa?" Alyssa turned her head to a familiar voice. Sienna stood behind her with her three leopard print luggage.

Alyssa jerked a thumb to the door. "I forgot my keys and Lily is inside."

"You could knock?"

"Lily told me before not to disturb her. She needed her nap. Do you have keys on you?"

Sienna nodded and pulled a pair of keys out of her jeans pocket, "Backup is always on the go. Here, I'll open the door."

"Thank you!" Alyssa breathed out and stepped to the side as Sienna started to unlock the door.

"Just don't forget your keys next time."

Alyssa rolled her eyes playfully, "You and Lily are the same. You both told me that."

"And you still forget the keys."

"I forgot!" Alyssa laughed to which Sienna laughed too.

The two were interrupted by Aika who made her way over and offered a racing night to Sienna. From the way Sienna agreed and engaged with Aika until she had to leave, Alyssa assumed things were looking up.

"I see you two have rekindled your friendship!" Alyssa crossed her arms as she watched Aika leave.

"Yeah. I did not want to be mad at her or Leo. It's not their fault." Sienna unlocked the security gate.

"Yeah. I am surprised at how quickly things resolved."

"I'll be honest, I am still hurt over Leo. But I want to see him happy."

"You know I never see what you mean. I found boys stupid." Alyssa said loudly. She turned to House 3 and 4 who watched with their mouths open. "No offence."

"None taken!" Colin in the distance gave a thumbs up.

Sienna giggled, "That's your opinion. But either way, I think I can bounce back from this."

"Yes, you can!" Alyssa nodded, "You don't need boy troubles to tear you down!"

"Exactly!" Sienna giggled and unlocked the front door. "There we go! Now, let's get this luggage inside."

The inside of House 5 was quiet when Alyssa and Sienna rolled their luggage inside. There was only one noise- the sound of snoring from the living room. Alyssa had perked her head inside the room where Lily had laid dramatically on the sofa, snoring lightly.

"Home sweet home!" Sienna whispered as she looked around the foyer, "Feels strange to be here. It still feels like we are on holiday."

Alyssa nodded. Even she found it strange. The homey feel that was once there seemed to have disappeared.

"Anyways, I'm bored. You want to do something? We can't use the TV since-"

"Lily." Alyssa nodded, remembering the sleeping Leo. She knitted her brows together, "I have some board games in my room. You may need to be quiet since, you know-"

"Lily." Sienna nodded, facing the open door leading to the living room. "Right, time to play some games!" She ran to the stairs before she stopped on the first step and turned back. "Oh and Alyssa? Thanks for everything. You're a great friend."

Friend. She bit her bottom lip. Sienna must have seen her that way.

But it never bothered her. She was glad someone like Sienna was still with her- friend or not.

Following Sienna, Alyssa hopped onto the stairs and ran up.

-= {⭐️🌟⭐️🌟⭐️} =-
(The party is done. The stars take a rest.)

RU NOTE:

And that is Chapter 100! 14K words. I feel tired about it but it was so worth it.

Would I do this again? No.

Anyway, it's time for your surprise! You got two surprises! The first is the cast drawn by me! Keep in mind, this is how I see the cast in my head as I write post-interval. I would like to acknowledge this as for this story I wanted people to imagine the characters however they like. But this is how I see them. (This may change your views so you don't have to see them this way). I am so sorry about how badly it is drawn 😭

This took so long :(

And now for the second surprise! I made a cover for the WIP! This book is kinda like a sister book to ZS but with a hopefully better plot but fewer characters (12 instead of 24). It is set in the same universe as ZS, but it is not in Thetowne, but rather another setting (which is hinted in this chapter)

Here is the cover that I made!

The blurb is coming soon but I will say that it is on secret agent things with superhuman abilities. On top of that the main characters are a team of 12 elite members after the zodiac who have to face the situation of working together. Which would feel difficult especially when there are secrets in every corner.

Yeah bit vague but I am excited and nervous to write on it.

Hope you enjoyed this chapter. The next chapter will be a short one.

Happy 100th chapter everyone!