"I have a feeling that Phoebe hates us."

"What do you mean?" Sabrina focused on sizzling the bacon on the frying pan. The bacon strips hissed as she turned them over with the tongs. She did not turn her head towards Carol who sat on one of the stools at the kitchen island, scrolling through her feed.

"I mean have you seen what happened lately? She avoided us yesterday, the two days before yesterday and early this morning too. That's surely a sign that she hates us."

Sabrina finished off simmering the bacon. "I don't know. She could just need space with us." She turned off the stove and slid the now crisp bacon strips onto a plate before she turned to her housemate.

"No, I feel like she still hates us. I mean I just searched social media and apparently, it's a sign that your friend hates you. Look." Carol turned her phone around.

Sabrina squinted her eyes. There on the screen was a short video with a guy pointing to the title.

"Five signs that your friend hates you." the video stated, "Number one: They have been avoiding you."

"Carolina, you do realise that there are other factors."

"Yeah but look it links with what happ-"

"I don't know. This is wrong. You're forgetting that people could be busy or just needed time." Sabrina said matter of factly, "Besides, social media is not reputable with this. It can sometimes help but most of the time it doesn't."

Carol slumped her shoulders, "But everything adds up in the video."

"But it is not reputable. I would rather look into relied sources with things like this." Sabrina placed the tongs away and made her way to the table, "Besides what reason would Phoebe hate us for?"

Carol knitted her brows and turned off her phone, tuning out the guy's voice much to Sabrina's relief. "Sabrina we caused an argument. We caused an argument which was so messy and heated that Phoebe got upset."

"Oh yeah..." Sabrina frowned, realising the situation.

Ever since the argument occurred, things have gotten more awkward around the group. It was as if everyone was watching a duel and the sides were at a standstill. The duelers refused to move and the audience of their friends held their breaths as they anticipated the next course of action.

Eventually, both sides decided to go hiking under certain conditions. But it still did not heal the aftermath. Everyone avoided talking about the planned hiking trip as it was a curse not to be spoken about. Those who do speak of it would be met with awkward silences and unsure looks.

The situation also made both Sabrina and Carol lose trust between some people; mainly Lily, Tyler and Phoebe. Phoebe, as her housemates noticed, would immediately run away from any opportunity for conversation- not saying a word. Lily and Tyler also avoided the two and would cast glares when Sabrina and Carol felt like talking.

The guilt remained between the two housemates. Neither of them wanted the argument to escalate this far- but the deed had been done. And its cost is the trust of their companions. If Sabrina were to be honest, she wished she would rewind time and never argue. She assumed Carol felt the same way too.

"Surely there must be some way to make up to them." Carol hopped off the stool.

"We could try to reach out."

"That would be difficult since Lily and Tyler ghost any message sent to them. I tried to reach out to them and Phoebe and they haven't answered."

"Maybe they're busy?"

"They've seen the message. It has been eight hours."

"Oh."

"What if this is the start of them despising us? They could have blocked us for it."

Sabrina shrugged. "That possibility is there.."

"Crap," Carol covered her face. "Why did I know that you were going to say that."

"Lina, you knew me for years. What else was I supposed to say?" Sabrina reached her hand towards her housemate and tilted her head up to face her. "What else am I supposed to say?"

"I don't know?" Carol replied, flabbergasted at her housemate's sudden action. She turned her head away, "Maybe something more positive?"

"Oh, I'm sorry." Sabrina cleared her throat. She forced on a squeaky, high-pitched voice, "I believe that they do not hate us. We just need to believe in the power of unicorns and rainbows! Yay, sparkles!"

Carol cringed, "Don't ever say that again."

"Let's all join forces with the power of flowers and happiness!" Sabrina continued much to Carol's warning. "Together, we can face this world with big smiles!"

"Sabrina, stop. I don't like this. Stop with the forced optimism."

"See? This is why I don't like forced optimism." Sabrina's voice lowered to her normal tone, "I prefer honesty. And that includes accepting the fact that things may not go to plan and that they may hate us for the time being."

"I hope that's not the case... I don't want to lose them."

"It is, unfortunately. We lose people and they can change their views. Nothing we can do to change that."

"We could talk to Levin about this?" Carol suggested.

Her housemate shook her head, "That's a bad idea. We would be talking to him about his friends behind their backs, and plead with him to get to their senses. Doesn't that sound bad to you?"

"Now that you mention it.." Carol sighed.

"Hey let's look on the bright side. Like what are you planning to do today!" Sabrina smiled. Carol normally does this trick to lighten the mood. Although she found it a bit strange in her eyes, Sabrina figured that she could use it now just so Carol could stop thinking about the situation.

"I got nothing in plan. Just thinking that's all."

"Oh," Sabrina nodded. That didn't work, "Well I got a shift on today and I'll be honest I don't want to go but they needed all hands on deck."

"Is being a barista fun?" Carol asked.

"I mean it can be. I'm used to the job and I find it repetitive, but it's interesting to make variations of coffee for the customer. Even better if they have a specific request."

"What café do you work at?"

"Café Thetowne." Sabrina answered, "It's in the town square. It's small, quaint, homey but very busy."

"I don't think we've ever been inside your workplace. Maybe I can drop by when you are working."

"I'd rather you don't."

"That's mean."

"I'm sorry, I just don't want to get distracted at work."

"But I wanted to see the place..." Carol slumped her shoulders.

"Wait, take back what I said." Sabrina held a hand up. "I guess it's okay if you come over. Just don't embarrass me in front of my coworkers and manager, okay?"

"Relax, you know I would not do that." Carol batted her lashes.

"Lies. You would."

"Yeah, I totally would, but I won't because that is mean." Carol smiled, her nose scrunching. "By the way do you recommend being a barista?"

Sabrina raised an eyebrow, "I mean I guess? You need the required training and skills to get the job. You also need time management. That is... something I need to work on."

"Hm? I thought you were good at that."

"I mean I can handle it. But I don't like it. Why are you asking this all of a sudden?"

"Oh you know, I want to apply for a job before we start university classes so that I can pay off student loans." Carol said with a shrug, "Put two and two together, Brina. It works wonders."

"Wow." Sabrina blinked. "I never saw this side to you."

"It's your fault I spent way too much time with you." Carol joked. Her housemate socked her arm, "Ow!" Carol laughed. "Hey, it's the truth! I may have adapted your behaviour so it's your fault."

"And I'm guessing you adapted Phoebe's behaviour too?"

"Of course, why wouldn't I?" Carol's voice then trailed off. "Speaking of Phoebe I miss her..."

Sabrina clicked her fingers and pointed to her housemate. "You're not alone there."

"I just want this tension to stop so we can comfortably talk to her again! Is that too much to ask?"

Suddenly the doorbell rang. Sabrina turned to the front door's direction. "Who could that be? Gilbert?"

"Why is he the first thing that came to mind."

"He visits here a lot."

"That is true," Carol jogged out of the kitchen and into the foyer. Sabrina heard the door open. "Oh, hello Levin."

Levin?

Sabrina made her way to the foyer and stood near one of the open doorways. Standing at the front door with a white puffer jacket, his hair tied into a bun, was Levin. He carried a brown recyclable bag which Sabrina had seen a few times at the supermarket. Made of recycled materials it claimed. Better than plastic.

"Oh Levin, morning." Carol leaned against the front door.

"Morning Carol," Levin smiled. He locked eyes with Sabrina and nodded in her direction. "Sabrina."

"Yo." Sabrina raised a hand to wave. She looked down at the bag. "What's in the bag?"

"Breakfast. Gilbert made them and Phoebe wanted some."

"I'm guessing it's his signature waffles."

"It is," Levin nodded with a smile.

"That's cool." Sabrina smiled. She wished she could have a set for herself. His waffles were golden, crispy and delicious. That's what made them special.

"Um... is Phoebe here?"

"She should be upstairs," Carol answered. "Don't exactly know when she's coming down. She has been av-"

"Carol." Sabrina hissed, casting a glare at her housemate.

Carol covered her mouth. "Sorry, almost said something else. She won't be long." She sheepishly chuckled and cast a nervous look at Sabrina.

Levin nodded and cast his eyes down. Carol frowned and tapped her fingers on the door. Sabrina clicked her tongue. A silence surrounded them as it was a brick wall being built. Sabrina wished that there was some sort of wrecking ball to knock it down. The silence made her feel uneasy.

"Um, Levin?" Carol cut through the silence, "I have a question."

Oh boy. Sabrina turned to her friend, "Carol."

"It's not a bad one. You're not in trouble. Just something I am curious about."

"Ask away." Levin nodded.

"Do you personally despise us?"

"Ca-rol!" Sabrina hissed.

"What? It's just a question."

"A bad one that is. You don't just ask that when it is already an awkward moment."

"I don't find it that bad." Levin answered, "All I can say is, I don't hate you at all."

Carol breathed a sigh of relief. "Really?"

"Yeah. I don't despise you."

"Oh, that's great to hear." Carol smiled as she exchanged a look with Sabrina, "Isn't that great to hear?"

Sabrina nodded, "Yeah, if you put it that way." At least the question answered one of her clouded worries. To make an enemy out of him would be a nightmare come true.

"I'm a bit confused why you asked," Levin raised an eyebrow, "Is this relating to anyone?"

"No, it's not!" Sabrina shook her head, "Carol's curious, that's all. Curious Carol they call her."

"I never heard tha-" Carol started before she got glared at by her friend, "Yeah! Yeah! Was an old nickname in our old town."

"I wondered where it came from," Levin laughed, "It's a neat ring to it."

"I should bring it back," Carol chuckled to herself. She heard hastened footsteps from the staircase and noticed Phoebe rushing down in her pyjamas, "Oh Phoebe's here. Morning!"

Phoebe paused on the final step. She looked down and hurried past her housemates. "You're arrived."

"Yep, with what you asked for." Levin passed the bag to his friend. "Might want to eat them quick."

"I'll make sure to do that, thank you so much." Phoebe held onto the bag's paper handles. "What time are we meeting at the bus stop?"

Levin reflected. "Lily suggested we catch the one at eleven five in the morning. That's when the bus comes."

"Oh?" Carol crossed her arms, "You are all going somewhere?"

"Yeah, we're shopping for hiking-appropriate wear. Phoebe's helping us out since she went hiking before."

"Yep, she went with me and Sabrina back in our old town. It was steep, but an amazing experience!" Carol laughed to herself. Sabrina crossed her arms and turned to Phoebe. Her housemate had grown quiet.

"If you need hiking-appropriate wear, you need to wear footwear that has a grip that is useful for climbing. None of the smooth sole ones." Sabrina advised.

"I- I know. Phoebe told us. But thank you." Levin said softly. He adjusted the collar of his jacket and looked away, "Right, I have to go. See you later."

"See you later," Phoebe said with a smile before she closed the door.

Sabrina noticed that immediately when the door clicked shut, Phoebe had wiped the smile off her face. The housemate looked down at the bag in her hands and made her way to the stairs.

Carol called out. "Phoebe?" Her housemate stopped before the stairs. "Once you are done shopping, you want to hang out with me and Sabrina?"

Silence.

"Just the three of us?"

"I'll think about it," Phoebe answered. "Maybe not."

"Oh..." Carol frowned, "Is there a reason why? Are you mad at us?"

"Carol, zip it," Sabrina whispered under her breath.

"I'm not mad." Phoebe forced a smile, "I'll just be tired by the time I return." She looked up the stairs before she turned back, "I should go."

Carol and Sabrina listened to the stairs thunk as their housemate made her way up. It was followed by a loud slam of the door. Carol sighed and sat down on the last step.

"She's mad at us."

"I wouldn't say so. And even if she is, give her time. She'll forgive us." Sabrina sat next to her friend and rubbed her back.

"I sure hope so."

If Sabrina were to be honest, she hoped so too.

-= ⭐️ =-
(Jay is reading a really short story on the train)

Gilbert, sitting by himself in the living room, watched the clock as it ticked away. He stared down at the smaller hand as it inched its way closer to '10'. The big hand, however, inched closer to '12'.

The time is almost here. Arlen and Skyler would return to the gym. He would run outside, and meet up with them. That's his plan.

"You've been staring at the clock for a while. Are you sure you are not bored?" Gilbert heard a soft voice. He recognised it immediately as Levin's. His housemate had just returned from House Eight.

"I'm not bored. Watching this is entertaining." Gilbert smiled. He knew that wasn't true. It felt like watching paint dry.

"That's... interesting? I would find this boring. To each their own, I guess." Then Levin left. Gilbert assumed his housemate had left to get ready. He overheard Levin on a call earlier arranging a shopping trip. Gilbert wished he could join him. Or rather- sneak behind him and spy from afar. To each his own, he guessed.

The hands of the clock moved slightly. Ten in the morning. The time Arlen would finally get back. Gilbert hopped off the couch and looked out through the window at the view of the neighbourhood.

He spotted Arlen walking across from one end of the road to the other with Skyler, Pete and Sienna. The four were dressed in gym-appropriate wear and carried gym bags. They seemed to be in a current conversation from the way they laughed and gossiped.

Gilbert ran to the front door and headed out. He waited on the front lawn and waved to the group. Only Pete and Sienna waved back. The other two stared.

Gilbert ran over to the group and bounced in his steps, "Heyyy friends, Skyler and," He paused for a dramatic effect and faced Arlen, "Wolf boy."

"Gilberta!" Arlen grumbled, "Do not call me that in public!"

"But everyone knows the nickname. Also, this isn't public."

"It's embarrassing, Gilberta."

"For you. And that brings music to my ears. By the way, how was the gym?" Gilbert noticed they were all bathed with sweat. "Wow, you are all sweaty."

"That's because we worked out, idiot." Skyler rolled his eyes. "Worked out of different equipment."

"Sienna is terrifying with the punching bag." Pete turned to his friend who scratched the back of her head with a smile. "You have seen the way the bag was swinging."

"It's not that bad." Sienna said pointedly, "It's part of the workout."

"To you. It looked scary to me."

"That's because you only focused on the treadmill and the exercise bike. You didn't even join me on the rowing machine or anyone with the bench presses."

Pete crossed his arms, "I like the treadmill and the exercise bike." Sienna facepalmed.

"Is there a reason why you are here, Gilbert? You're not here to make fun of me, aren't you?" Arlen placed his hands on his hips.

Gilbert tilted his head to the side like a confused dog. "I was planning to see Skyler."

"Aww look at that Skylie. Gilberta does care about you!" Sienna elbowed her friend. She turned to Gilbert, "You know I overheard Skyler say your name while he and Arlen were chatting. I assumed they were praising you."

"We were talking about how annoying he is," said Skyler.

"Um actually," Pete said as he pointed a finger up, "It was more like Arlen was ranting about him. You on the other hand defended Gilbert. Whatever happened to 'He is not all like that' and 'Gilbert is actually-'"

Skyler slapped a hand over his housemate's mouth. "Man, we should change the conversation. Pete is being a little sh**."

"HEY!" was Pete's muffled voice as he knitted his brows close together.

"You be quiet. Okay?" Skyler whispered. He lowered his hand and turned to Gilbert, "Surely that's not the only reason?"

"I wish. But there's another reason. I need to talk to Arlen about," Gilbert's voice lowered to a whisper, "the plan."

"The... plan?"

"Me and Gilberta are planning to build a robot. For Leo." Arlen answered.

"It's a secret gift!" Gilbert smiled, "Just to make him happy. Me and Arlen are working together to create it."

"I am guessing it links to the self-doubt thing." Skyler tried to piece the puzzle together.

"It does."

"Wow," Skyler blinked, "That's so nice of you! I'm sure Leo would like it."

"And how do you know that? You're a psychic or something?"

"No, but I wish I was." Skyler took some steps back to his house. "Right, I'm going to go. Good luck with the robot!"

"Bye Skyler!" Arlen and Sienna waved.

"Bye Skylie~ my love! I love you!" Gilbert dramatically waved. He noticed Skyler had glared back before he entered his house.

"Right, I gotta shower." Arlen muttered, "And Gilberta?"

"Yes?"

"Don't take too long. We have to do the plan."

"Relax I'll come over. Now shoo." Gilbert waved a hand dismissively. Arlen nodded and headed towards his house. Meanwhile, Sienna and Pete shared a look and were about to leave when...

"Sienna, Pete can I ask you something?"

The two turned swiftly towards Gilbert who had asked the question.

"Don't worry you're not in trouble. I just have a simple request."

"What's the request?" Pete asked, "Is it regarding Skyler?"

"No." Gilbert shook his head. "It's regarding, Levin and his squad."

Sienna and Pete shared a glance. "What about them?" Sienna ended up asking.

"They have been very suspicious. And I just wanted to know what Levin is doing with his friends."

"I'm guessing you want us to spy on them?" Pete muttered.

"Not exactly spy. It's more like," Gilbert paused. What was the right way to phrase it, "It's more like looking out to see how the younger brother is doing. I mean I already have an eye on Arlen so I need an eye on Levin too."

"So let me get this straight," Sienna crossed her arms, a perplexed look on her face, "You want us to keep an eye on Levin and his friends because you... want to prove that you are a responsible older sibling?" She furrowed her brows, "This seems more overprotective than responsible. It's like you don't trust anyone there."

"I don't mean to make it sound like I am protective. I am just curious to find out what Levin is like."

Pete crossed his arms and Sienna arched an eyebrow.

"...And also check to see how Phoebe is doing."

"I knew it." Sienna clicked her fingers, "You're worried about the situation at House Eight."

"Why wouldn't I be worried? It came out of nowhere and got so many people upset. I just wanted to see if things are looking up."

"And by that, you mean tasking us to spy on them out of concern."

"And care." Gilbert smiled, his dimples visible.

"But mostly concern."

"Yeah, mostly concern. So...?" Gilbert swayed back and forth like an eager child, "Will you do the favour for your friend?"

"I don't know. I think Sienna should answer." Pete scratched the back of his head.

"So I am left to answer. Let me think," Sienna pointed a finger to her cheek and paced around in thought, "This is a spy mission. And as much as it would sound like something to sign up to, it is with great regret to say no to this opportunity."

"What?!" Gilbert's voice cracked.

"It's not that much of a big deal. Yeah, I get you are concerned but I have confidence that Lily and the others would cheer her up." Sienna crossed her arms, "And besides. What are me and Pete going to get out of this? This is something you could do."

"But I am busy with the robot, remember?" Gilbert reminded. He turned quiet, "Hm okay, this is a rather unexpected response. What if I tell you that there is a reward and I'll make sure to get it?"

"Ooh! I like rewards! What is it?" Pete asked curiously.

"Uh, donuts. Glazed donuts. I'll make sure to order them."

"I like donuts! Oh wait, can we have bubble tea as well?" Pete asked, "I want the mango milk tea with the lychee popping pearls."

"Bubble... tea?" Gilbert blinked. "Mango milk tea? With... wait, huh? What's popping pearls."

"They are pearls that burst in your mouth with flavour when you chew on them. They're like tapioca pearls but are more chewy and act like popping candy." Sienna smiled. "Pete always gets this drink as a regular. As for me I normally get the peach black ice tea with the mango popping pearls."

"Wait I am confused. This sounds confusing."

"Have you ever had bubble tea before?"

Gilbert shook his head. He wished he did. But he never got around to getting one. It made him feel more left out. Lately, everyone on Zodiac Street has become obsessed with bubble tea. Lizzy, Pete and Sienna introduced it first which was followed by a rise in popularity in obtaining different drinks. Everyone else seemed to understand the process and have their signature go-to drinks. Everyone but him. He wished he could join in, but the process seemed confusing for him to handle on his own.

"What a shame, you should give it a go." Pete sighed.

"I do want to give it a go. But I don't know where to start. It seems confusing."

"It's not that hard. All you need to do is pick a drink and its size, pick the pearls and state what levels of pearls and sugar you need."

"But how am I supposed to find the perfect drink?"

"Experiment." Sienna answered, "That's what makes bubble tea so popular here. Everyone can customise their drink whatever they want. It all comes down to experimenting. If you're stuck, you can always ask us for help."

"Yeah. There are a lot of drinks to try. Like Levin's favourite: jasmine milk tea with the coconut jelly." Pete smiled.

"Or brown sugar drink with normal pearls. I think Phoebe and Lizzy like that."

"Lizzy also likes the strawberry milk tea with the mango popping pearls."

"Oh right. Forgot about that."

"Or you can be basic like Vincent and her the vanilla milk tea with the normal pearls."

"Or you can have Giselle's order. Lemon tea with the crystal pearls. Those are the white seethrough pearls."

"Or maybe try taro milk tea with the normal pearls. It's the purple drink Lily gets."

"This is confusing." Gilbert felt a bit dizzy.

"You could try something easy to remember. The cookies and cream drink is something Leo started with and still gets. There are no pearls with that unfortunately as it is a frozen drink." Sienna smiled.

"Or try my favourite drink! The mango milk tea with the lychee popping pearls!" Pete added excitedly.

"You love that drink, huh?" Sienna turned to her friend.

"Of course. It's my favourite."

"Wow."

"Either way, drinks aside, you're gonna do the request right?" asked Gilbert.

"Now that we know what the reward is- sure, doesn't hurt to try." Sienna shrugged. "All for the sake of donuts and maybe a free trip to get bubble tea. Where are they going anyways?"

"Shopping. At that new place. Levin's leaving at eleven. I overheard him. So around that time would be best for you to also leave."

"That's perfect. Perfect cause of the location I mean. The best bubble tea shops are there." Pete smiled wistfully. "I can imagine it already. The mango-"

"Milk tea with the lychee popping pearls." Sienna finished in a deadpan voice. "I think we all get it. That the drink is your favourite."

Pete smiled.

"Aaaaanyways," Sienna rolled her eyes, "We'll do the request. But if we get caught, I'm blaming it on you."

"Wow, throwing me under the bus already?" Gilbert shrugged. "Of course, you do that. No one would ever believe that poor innocent Gilbert would do such a thing."

"They will. You're the first person that comes to everyone's mind with this. The second is Alyssa." Pete placed his hands on his hips.

Gilbert gasped. "How rude." He gestured a hand to himself. "I for one should be praised for that. You are treating it as if it is a bad thing. If it weren't for what I do, this street would be bland."

"You're sort of right. But it's never that bland here." Sienna knitted her brows together.

"True, true. But you should still be, you know, grateful. It's really fun to cause chaos here once in a while. Everyone should do it."

"How would that look like? When everyone acts like you, Gilbert?" Pete wondered.

"It would be a nightmare." a monotone voice interrupted. The trio turned to find Arlen waiting at House Three's doorway, wearing a dark blue robe. He rubbed his damp dark hair with a towel, "Gilberta, what's taking you so long? Didn't you say that there's a plan?"

"Right, the plan!" Gilbert clicked his fingers and faced his friends. "Sorry friends but I must go. Arlen needs to learn how to be patient. Remember, make sure that you are checking to see how Levin and Phoebe are. Don't be suspicious."

"Gilbert."

"Alright Arlen, I'm coming. Shut up." Gilbert glared at his housemate. He cheerfully waved at his friends before he darted for his house.

Sienna and Pete waved back, puzzled.

"What a strange person." Sienna mused, "Well, Pete. Looks like we have a mission to do."

"Gilberta never told us what time Levin and the others are leaving, right?" Pete furrowed his brows.

"He did. Eleven. We just need to make sure we are not suspicious about it."

Pete clapped his hands gleefully. "This is so exciting! I can't wait to head off. Especially since we get to have a chance to buy drinks including the mango mi-"

"Oh my go-"

-= ⭐️ =-
(Jay watches the raindrops on the train window)

"What are you doing?"

Lizzy looked up from her switch. Aika stood in front of her, a blue feather duster in her hand.

Lizzy looked down at the game on her tablet. A character that looked similar to her held up a fish. "Fishing." She adjusted her round-framed glasses. "I am collecting fish for the museum."

"Sounds festive. May I watch?"

"Um, sure." Lizzy smiled shyly. "You can watch from here." She patted the spot next to her on the couch.

"Alright. Cleaning is just so boring. I need a break." Aika dropped the feather duster on the coffee table and flopped down onto the couch dramatically.

Lizzy nodded and stared at the screen in front of her.

Aika crossed her legs and watched her friend fish. And fish. And fish. And fish. And fish. And fish.

And fish.

"Is fishing the only thing you do in this game?" Aika asked.

"No. There are other things too. Collecting fruit, collecting materials, inviting villagers... um." She turned quiet, "And decorating the island. My island isn't great. Cleo's is better."

"Can I see your island?" Aika reached her hand for the device. Her friend paused before she passed the device to her housemate.

"Do be careful with it."

"Relax. I'll be careful." Aika smiled. She moved the controller and watched as the mini Lizzy avatar on the screen toured through a cute and homey town.

She marvelled at the sight of beautifully crafted lakes, cliffs, gardens and waterfalls. Everything was arranged neatly with beautifully designed cottages and well-matched colours. The place in her hands was perfect. Absolutely perfect.

"It's not the best." Lizzy muttered, "I feel like it could need some work."

"Are you kidding me? This is perfect!" Aika turned to her housemate, "Your island is so dreamy. It reminds me of cottagecore gardens. I love how you decorated everything. It's perfect."

"...Really?" Lizzy asked sceptically. She received the device back.

"Yeah! And I mean every word I said. You did an amazing job." Aika hugged her friend. "Did you show Giselle your island?"

Lizzy's voice hitched. "No..."

"Really? I think you should show this to her. And maybe, you and Giselle can talk?" Aika suggested. Her housemate sighed. "Don't worry! Giselle will not judge. You know what this community is like."

"I'm still afraid to tell her. What if she judges me?"

"If she does, we'll kick her out."

Lizzy's eyes widened. "Are we that harsh? I don't want her to be homeless."

"No, I was joking. If she judges, I'll talk sense into her."

"So no kicking out?"

"No kicking out."

"Good." Lizzy breathed a sigh of relief. "Where is Giselle, anyway?"

"She's taking your dog Glimmer on a walk, remember?"

"Oh yeah. I forgot about that." Lizzy instantly remembered.

She remembered Giselle calling out and hearing the sound of Glimmer's tiny paws running around before it faded to silence as the two left and clicked the door behind them. They left around an hour ago, so she assumed they would return. After all Glimmer's walks only last an hour.

"Either way," Aika continued, "I feel like you should talk to her."

"I don't know..."

"Then how about this? You ask her rhetorically!" Aika suggested, "Ask her as you are asking for someone else. If she gets suspicious I'll back you up."

"..."

"I feel like it's about time you used honesty. Why worry about what someone thinks about you when you should know who they are."

The front door slammed open followed by a familiar voice and the sound of excited tiny footsteps scampering across the floor, "Girls, I'm home! Glimmer, hold still let me take your leash off, you goose."

Aika shared a glance with Lizzy, "Talk with her."

Lizzy nodded. It appeared that there was no way out of this. She was guided into a room with locked exits.

Giselle stepped into the room, hugging Lizzy's small dog in her arms. She set Glimmer on the floor and laughed when the dog started rolling onto the floor.

"Hey, I just vacuumed that..." Aika frowned.

"Did you?" Giselle turned from the dog to her housemates, "Whoops. I'll clean it up."

"No need. I'll do it later."

"Alright," Giselle shrugged. She made her way to the two and sat down on the empty spot next to Lizzy, "Glimmer was being very naughty on the walk."

"Why?" Lizzy and Aika asked at the same time.

"Kept pulling on my leash that's why. Whenever someone is walking down the path or there is a dog nearby, Glimmer pulls ahead. It's annoying." Giselle glared at the dog who trotted over to the water bowl and started to take a drink. "At least the walk is done." She rested her elbow on the back of the seat, "So what were you two talking about?"

"Lizzy was just showing me around her island." Aika smiled.

"Ooh! Can I see the island?"

Lizzy paused playing and stared at her avatar swaying idly. "Sure." She passed her device to Giselle. She watched as her housemate, after a word of thanks, knitted her brows as she explored through the island.

"This is such a cute island!" Giselle smiled, "I wish I could move here. It reminds me of spring."

"I told Lizzy that it felt like a cottagecore-like setting."

"It feels like that too! I love how you did the layout. It's perfect."

Lizzy looked down shyly. "Thank you."

She felt a nudge. She turned and noticed Aika waiting. Her housemate gestured her head toward Giselle who reached out towards the small dog, cooing.

Oh, guess it is time to ask.

"Ellie, I have a question," Lizzy asked softly. After she captured the attention of Giselle, she continued. "Let's say you are talking with someone. You learn that that person has different interests from you. How would you view that person?"

"Hm," Giselle pondered, "I would respect them."

"What if that someone is someone you know? Like a friend."

Giselle raised an eyebrow, "Do I know this person you are talking about?"

"You can put it that way."

"I'll still respect them, even support them. I may not share the same interests as them but I want them to be welcomed. It is the right thing to do."

"Even if let's say that person likes hobbies you are not a fan of? Like debating and doing math for example?"

"Even that I'll still support them. I may not like math or be good at it. I may not have an interest towards debating. But if someone I know likes those things, I'll support them. It is their passion and I don't want to change that. I'll still love and care for them in any way."

"Oh..." Lizzy felt her eyes well up.

"Is something the matter? Did something happen to this person? I am confused as to why you asked those questions all of a sudden."

Lizzy quickly wiped her eyes, "Nothing happened, I just wanted to know."

"Alright, 'cause I want to let this person know that they have my support." Giselle smiled, "Tell that person that I admire them for their interests."

Oh. Lizzy hugged her knees. "One more question. And Aika, you can answer this too."

"Good." Aika startled Giselle, "I wanted to contribute to this meaningful conversation."

"I forgot you were there," Giselle admitted.

Aika pointed to her head. "It do be like that though." (😭????)

"Anyways," Giselle turned to her friend, "Your question?"

"Well," Lizzy searched through the right words. She took a deep breath and continued, "What if that person I was talking about was me? Would you still support me?"

"Of course, I'll still support you!" Giselle smiled.

"Wait, really?"

"Yes, you goose!" Giselle laughed lightheartedly, "I'll still support you in whatever interest you are in."

"I would also support you." Aika smiled and nudged her friend. Lizzy guessed the nudge meant 'Told you so'.

But there were still thoughts, "I'll be honest. I thought you would hate me."

Giselle tilted her head, like a curious puppy. "Why would we ever do that? Why would we hate you?"

"Because I'm not like you, Giselle. I am not an expert in many things. I am not like Aika either. I can't watch over a large group and notice everything." Lizzy went quiet, "I don't have any of those traits. I am useless to the group."

"Whoa there!" Giselle shook her housemate. "Don't call yourself useless! You are not useless!"

"But it felt like I was in the past. So I changed myself to give myself a purpose. I wanted to be your friend. I wanted to be like you."

"Elizabeth..." Giselle frowned, "You didn't have to do that. Because I'll still be your friend."

"Even in the past?"

"I'll be honest, even then, I wanted to be you too. You were my role model."

Role-model? "Wait, are you sure?"

"Yes." Giselle answered, "I looked up to you. You were kind, compassionate, sweet, and understanding. I wanted to be like that, and in the past, I wasn't like that. So I looked up to you and you taught me so much. You were perfect, Lizzy. And you still are."

"You may not realise it but you are even a role model to me as well." Aika interrupted. "Even in the past. Meeting you was the best thing I've ever witnessed since you taught me a lot too."

"I feel like you are both saying that to make me feel better. I don't feel like I taught you anything."

"I mean what I said, Lizzy." Giselle made herself clear. Aika nodded in agreement. "You are perfect, Lizzy. You always are. And I am glad you are here. We both are."

"We love you Lizzy, and you play a major part here. You shaped us and we can admit that. I wish you could see that." Aika smiled warmly.

"Sure, you may feel like you do not meet the same levels as me and Aika, but truth be told, you exceed us. You contributed so much to me and Aika. We both look up to you a lot."

"You two..." Lizzy teared up.

"Two more things. We are always here to support you in whatever you do." Giselle pulled her friend in a hug, "Thank you for telling us about your interests."

Lizzy wrapped her arms around her best friend, "You're welcome."

The two remained in the hug for the longest time. Eventually, Aika joined in and the three hugged in silence.

Until Glimmer barked.

"This silly goose." Giselle narrowed her eyes at the dog, "We are trying to have a moment here."

Glimmer barked.

"I think Glimmer wants to join in whatever we were doing." Aika laughed.

"The more the merrier," Lizzy smiled and scooped the dog in her arms, cradling it carefully.

"Guess Glimmer can join," Giselle shrugged, "So what now? Do you have plans?"

Lizzy placed the dog gently on her lap and picked up her device. "I am going to continue building my island."

"Ooh! Can I visit your island? We can explore your town!" Giselle gasped.

"I like the sound of that," Lizzy smiled, "Aika?"

"I'll join too. It'll be fun."

"Maybe we could find a spot for a new area?" Giselle stood up. "We could make a street!" Dramatically, Giselle moved her arm as she was showing off the horizon, "Lizzy Street."

"Lizzy Street?" Lizzy laughed.

"Yeah and maybe that street can have the same format as here!"

"Maybe we could change the name? Lizzy Street sounds a bit too much."

"What's wrong with Lizzy Street? I like that name."

"Yeah, what's wrong with that?" Aika smiled cheekily, "Lizzy Street is an amazing name."

"I thought you would name it Glimmer Street," Lizzy said as she looked down at the screen.

"We can use Glimmer for another place. At the moment, Lizzy Street is important. Because you are important." Giselle said, hands on her hips. "Please name the street Lizzy Street."

Lizzy hid a laugh. "Alright." She shook her head. "Lizzy Street it is."

-= ⭐ =-
(Jay exits the train at the station and prepares to go to a street.)

"You know, I never expected this."

"Never expected what?"

"I never expected you would help me with planting pansies in the front garden, Alyssa." Vivian looked up at her friend. "I thought you would never help out."

Alyssa stood up after she planted the final bunch of pansies in the garden bed, "You know, Vivian. It is rude to assume."

"I'm sorry but it took me by surprise. You normally do not help with anything."

"That is true..." Alyssa's voice trailed off.

"And you don't like gardening."

"That is also true. But I helped because you appeared to be sad and lonely."

Vivian scoffed. "Right." She got up and took off her green gardening gloves. She tossed the gloves into the wheelbarrow the two had rolled in with the pansies. "You know I could do this by myself. You could just yap away while I plant."

"You're ungrateful. I wanted to help because I felt bad for you."Alyssa shook her head, "The audacity of you Virgos." (smh /j)

"Hey!" Vivian gritted her teeth. "Quit bringing my sign into this. We're not all like that."

"See now you got offended. See what happens if you openly assume something negative about someone. Now do you understand how I felt?"

Vivian nodded. "You're right. I apologise. It was wrong of me to assume." She tilted her head to the side, "You taught me a valuable lesson. You do know a lot of things."

"Me am?" Alyssa joked.

"Never mind." Vivian faced away, "Forget the praise I have given you."

"Aww what a shame," Alyssa shrugged, "I was hoping you would flatter my ego. After all, I am awesome, fabulous, very intelligent and a pleasure to be around." She clicked her fingers and pointed to her friend. "I feel like you would agree on this."

"What if I said that I agreed partially with what you said."

"Oh? And what part would that be?"

"The 'awesome' and 'pleasure to be around' part."

"Not the fabulous part? What a shame. That is the highest level of praise and I never got it. A pity." Alyssa smirked.

Her friend rolled her eyes. "Well, I guess you're fabulous. That's bound to change depending on how annoying you are." Vivian got out her phone.

"But annoying you is how much I care about you. Just admit that you are grateful to have me here so that we don't get bored. I mean Lily left to go with her friends, Sienna left with Pete, and Tahlia and Cleo left with Vincent and Cameron."

"Oh dear, my housemates are third wheeling." Vivian laughed.

"They'll manage. And besides I heard that Sam and Leo are joining them."

"Oh no, now Tahlia's third wheeling."

"She has Leo to talk to, she'll be fine. Also with them gone, it only leaves me and you. And we are, I must say, an inseparable duo. A captain and the first mate. Traversing the unknown seas on their ship. A wonderful adventure."

"Am I the captain?" Vivian looked up, her eyes sparkling.

"No, you are the first mate. I'm the captain."

Vivian deflated, "Oh." She resumed scrolling on her phone. "At this moment I should not be surprised. You always make yourself have the good stuff."

"I kept you in mind too! First mate is very fitting."

"I suppose it is." Vivian smiled after she had a quick thinking session. Then she went back to her phone. "I got a question. What do you think the best present for Tahlia would be?"

Alyssa took off her gloves and tossed them into the wheelbarrow. "Nice!" she fist-pumped. She turned to her friend. "I'm not sure. I'm not that close with Tahlia. Why do you want to buy her a gift?"

"Tahlia always buys me a gift. Always the expensive ones as well. I want to gift her something too but I am not sure what to get."

"Perhaps get her something that links to her hobby. She likes photography, right? Maybe get her a camera?"

"She already has a camera."

"Doesn't hurt to get her another one."

"I was thinking of something more practical for her. Something like a tote bag or maybe a blanket, maybe some knitted plushes too. Oh! And an oversized teddy, she always wanted that."

"She'd love that. But at the same time, it sounds a bit funny."

"Why is it funny? Is it something I said?"

"Well, no. It's more on the fact that she's out here giving expensive jewellery to you and you are thinking about buying a cute tote bag, plushes and a blanket."

"It's the thought that counts! I'll make it themed as well!"

"You're right. It is the thought and care that counts. And I know Tahlia would love it."

"I don't know. Looking back, she deserves something better. Maybe I should think about this carefully."

"Definitely get her the oversized teddy. That is a perfect present."

"I will, I will." Vivian waved a hand.

Alyssa faced away. "If you say so." Then something caught her eye. Well, someone. A mail carrier stood on the sidewalk of the Street, scratching their helmet as they looked at the two parcels in their hands.

"Hold on Vivian, I'll be right back. Need to do something." Alyssa marched over to the mail carrier, "Hello!" The carrier jumped, startled. "Sorry, didn't mean to startle you. Do you need help with anything? You know I live around here so I can help out."

"You live around here?" the mail carrier's voice, a female's, asked from behind the helmet's shield.

"Yeah, I live here. So, is there anything you need help with?"

"I am very grateful for your help. I'm looking for the addresses of Alex and Phoebe. I am trying to find out where Houses One and Eight are. But it appears the numbers are washed off."

"Yeah, that's what happens when you got the number painted on the wall," Alyssa said matter-of-factly.

The numbers of each house were always painted near the front door. And lately, seven of the houses' paint jobs had faded when included the numbers. It was due for a renovation but no one had gotten around to fixing it. Only House Seven managed to get away free from the renovation as their numbers were not painted on. It was the benefit of having a house that looked different from the rest. (A/N: That house is not like other houses 😔)

"You mentioned that you live here, right?"

"Yes. House Five. That pale red one over there." Alyssa pointed to the red house next to Vivian's.

"Do you know where Houses One and Eight are?"

"They are both near the entrance of the road," Alyssa said as she pointed to House One. "That's House One. Alex is in there." She then pointed to House Eight. "House Eight is there. Phoebe is not here at the moment, but her housemate is. If you need anything that needs signing, she could sign it. But you could also leave the package at the front doorstep."

"Thank you so much!" the carrier smiled before she made her way to House One. Alyssa watched on and heard footsteps approaching from behind.

"Did I see you help that mail carrier just now?" Alyssa heard a familiar voice. She turned in her spot and noticed Vivian with her arms crossed. "I never knew you would go out of your way to help. That is a nice thing for you to do."

"Well, she looked lost. And the paint job fading away probably isn't helpful. So I had to help." Alyssa shrugged, "Turns out Alex and Phoebe got packages."

"A package?" Vivian furrowed her brows, "They never mentioned anything on that."

"Maybe a friend sent them the gift. Like Sabrina? She's close to the two of them. Alex is Sabrina's best friend, and Phoebe is her housemate."

"But wouldn't she give them the gift personally?"

"She could have but maybe she is not a gift giver and wants to do things in secret."

"I want to know what the package is."

"I do too. But that's the least of our concerns." Alyssa shook her head, "By the way, have you decided on a gift for Tahlia?"

"Still need help deciding. I looked up what the best gifts to give to a Taurus would be but I don't know if it would meet the same level as her gifts." Vivian frowned, "At the moment it's a large teddy bear and a blanket."

"Both solid gifts." Alyssa pressed her lips to a line, "Let's search together! Perhaps that can help you."

"You didn't have t-"

"Vivian, shut up. I want to help." Alyssa interrupted. She grinned afterwards, "Well, let's start gift searching!"

Vivian chuckled. "Alright." She left for the house.

Alyssa however stayed behind. She turned to the mail carrier who crossed the road to the other side to drop off Phoebe's package. With a shrug, Alyssa followed her friend.

But deep down she couldn't help but wonder what the packages contained.

-= ⭐ =-
(Jay arrives at a street and makes his way to the front door of Brian's apartment)

A/N:

Lizzy is quickly climbing up in my favourite characters I've written tier list. Vincent too. Mainly cause I relate the most to them.

Bit of a fun fact. The drinks were suggested by my friends. I asked them what their go-to drink is and they provided a lot of options. If any of them read this, thank you.

Also fun fact. Sienna's drink is the go-to drink of my best friend (who is also a Sag). Pete's drink is my favourite drink that I buy all the time.

By the way, I need some help. I need to figure out a way to make the upcoming 100th chapter special. I already got a sketch of the characters' appearances down but I am not sure if I should add something else to it as well. Do any of you have any suggestions? I want to make the 100th chapter special and perfect as it is a big milestone.

Either way, hope you enjoyed the chapter!