Clash on the dance floor

by Rafadecentstories

Summary:

A Border Collie afraid to confess his feelings, A Labrador coming from Canada to study, the feelings of a Heeler in the middle of everything and a school year with lots of drama on the horizon…This could go or extremely good or extremely bad.

Chapter 1: The gamer and the student

Notes:

Hi guys, Welcome to my first fic I started doing over in FF but that I decided to translate it into English
I welcome any comment you guys wanna make (Side note: I don't bite XD)

"Ughhhh”

"Last asset in the area, finish the mission”

The announcer announces into the headphones of a 17-year-old Border Collie who is focused on the game in front of him.

"Mackenzie…" The voice of one of his friends sounds in his red headphones "... The bomb is where I died, find it and plant it in ‘B’”

"Oh no," Mackenzie thought when he found out that he was the only one on his team alive. He just shook his head and communicated, “OK” Using his fingers on the keyboard and his hand on the computer mouse, the Border Collie began to head to the last location of the bomb in the virtual world that replicated a small town in Afghanistan.

Mackenzie's character moved slowly, aiming his carabine at every corner of the map in search of threats. His heart was racing a mile a minute, and his hands were beginning to sweat, but he had to stay focused if he wanted to win the round.

He finally reached the area adjacent to the bomb, he was in a narrow trading corridor with shelves of fruit and clothing along it.

The border collie positions himself near a wall at one end of the hallway, steeling himself to enter and fetch the bomb.

But he stood there thinking.

“Someone will be there…waiting for me.”

With courage in his heart, he steps out of cover and aims down the corridor with his rifle…He could see the bomb along with the down body of an Australian Red Kelpie, but he was right.

At the end of the corridor, there was a German Shepherd aiming his rifle at the other side of the corridor. The border collie reacts quickly and presses the left click to open fire on the enemy fighter. The enemy player is taken by surprise and falls dead in 4 shots.

"One hostile remaining in the area. Finish what you started," it is announced in the teenager's headphones.

"Good shots, Mack," some of his teammates congratulate him

With the enemy player dead, the border-collie approaches the Red Kelpie's body and automatically picks up the bomb.

"I'm sorry, Mack…" The Red Kelpie player's voice is heard

"It's okay… I can finish this," says the Border-Collie determinedly.

With the bomb in his possession, the Border-collie finally makes his way carefully to the target location to be destroyed. After a few minutes, Mackenzie managed to reach the target area, which was a ruin adjacent to some long buildings with some supply boxes in the center. Mackenzie approaches the boxes and presses the button on his keyboard for his character to activate the Bomb.

The border collie manages to activate the bomb, but when he is about to leave for a safe place, a scream reverberates in his headphones.

"MACKENZIE LOOK UP!"

Mackenzie moved his mouse up so his character could look up at the three-story building and notice the silhouette of another player on the roof. It was an orange Heeler with a sniper rifle in his hands, but he wasn't aiming down the scope.

Before Mackenzie can react, the orange Heeler launches himself off the building, spinning in the air, and shoots at the border collie. As if by magic, the shot manages to hit the border collie in the head.

"AH!" Mackenzie's mouth opens completely at the same time that the screen turns red with the death of the character. This causes the screen to change to the point of view of the Heeler who killed him.

The orange heeler hits the ground without a scratch and makes his way to Mackenzie's character's body. The heeler stands on top of the character and begins to crouch and stand in a maneuver known as ‘Teabagging.’

"Oh, come on…" One of Mackenzie's team friends complains.

"This is already too far away," another of Mackenzie's friends complains.

After committing what is considered a war crime, the Heeler leaves the Border Collie's body alone to deactivate the bomb with plenty of time left.

Mackenzie, still with his mouth open, understands that he failed miserably in his mission while the screen changed to the logos of the factions and large words that said

‘DEFEAT’

‘TASK FORCE: 2 MILITIA: 3’

"They beat us today. Let's not let it happen again," the announcer says for the last time.

As Mackenzie tried to understand what had happened, pandemonium began in his headphones with the voices of teenagers and adults.

"THIS WAS EASY”

"I KILLED YOU 5 TIMES, FOOL”

"GG EASY”

"MACKENZIE WHAT HAPPENED?”

"GOOD MACKENZIE, GOOD”

"THAT WAS THE BEST TRICKSHOT I'VE EVER SEEN IN MY LIFE”

"YOU ARE VERY BAD”

"YOUR FATHER WENT FOR MILK”

"I HAVE YOUR SISTER IN MY HOUSE, FOOL”

With a face that wishes the earth would swallow him up, Mackenzie takes off his headphones and places them on top of the keyboard. He stands up and honorably leaves his room.

---

*Mackenzie's Room*

After the chaos of the game, Mackenzie had already returned to his room and was talking to his friends Rusty, Jack, Snicker, Lucky, and Winston in "Disclaw." The Border-Collie is in a room with a giant bed with black and white sheets that complement his colors in the center, a stand with a lantern, a closet with some clothing items for important events, and a large shelf with a slightly expensive computer set, a medium monitor, keyboard and mouse with lights, and a PC underneath with lights too.

"So she shows me her paw, saying, 'Talk to the paw,' and I said, 'Your paw is more interesting than you.' Hahaha," Lucky says, making the boys laugh, but Mackenzie doesn't find it very funny.

He was leaning back in his chair while stroking his soft tail which was in his lap to comfort himself, His mind was still on the embarrassing defeat he suffered an hour ago, but he finally felt well enough to talk about what happened.

"Guys," Mackenzie started speaking into the microphone of her headphones. "I'm sorry we didn't win that game. We were so close to winning."

"Don't worry, Mack,” Rusty's voice starts to sound in the headphones. “This always happens. They were just better. We just need to go again and learn, right?”

"Where's your pride, Rusty?” Now it was Winston who spoke, “You can't say that the other team is better.”

"Winston is right," says Jack,” but Rusty is right, too. Mackenzie has only been playing this game for about two days, so of course, he still has more to learn.”

"6 hours in total specifically," Snicker corrects.

"I don't think experience has anything to do with what happened today,” Mackenzie answers sadly. "I should have known there was someone on that roof. We lost because I'm a fool.

"Mack… " Lucky's voice sounds off.

"Mackenzie, please, bro," Rusty said. "Don't talk to yourself like that; nothing happened. Do you know how many mistakes I made playing this game?”

Mackenzie rolls his eyes. He already knew Rusty would go into 'emotional support' mode, but he would listen to him anyway.

"I once lost a game because a ninja defused the bomb without me noticing, and no one has any idea how much abuse I got when that happened, "Rusty begins his speech. "Jack once got so nervous about being the only dog standing that when he found the last enemy, he missed every shot and got killed. Snicker was so new that he didn't know the run button and got killed quickly. Lucky was so lost that he took a shotgun to a big map and got called a fool.”

"The point is," Rusty continues, "is that we were all fools when we started this game. But when I played with you, I felt that we were a good team, a serious team, gentlemen. I know that if I'm going to play with you, I can trust Jack, Lucky, Snicker, Winston, and you, Mackenzie. So next time, I need you to reset, put that game behind us, and move on, okay? Can you say OK in the chat, Mackenzie?

After Rusty's speech, Mackenzie sits back in her chair and types a simple ‘OK’ as a response in the "disclaw" group chat.

"That's my brother," Rusty says

"We may have lost this game, but we still have 1 week before school starts,” Snickers mentions

"Yes, are you ready for the last year of the hell known as ‘High School’?” Winston changes the subject.

"I'm not ready, but I'm going anyway” Lucky jokes

"Hey, did Mackenzie say that an exchange student would stay at his house this school year?” Jack asks.

"Oh yeah, actually, my family is picking him up from the airport tonight, and I'm going with them” Mackenzie replies.

"But why?" asked Winston. "Why don't you stay with us and play?"

"Because I'm going to live with him for almost a year,” Mackenzie answers, half annoyed. "I need to get to know him and start the relationship on the right foot.”

"That makes sense” Rusty says thoughtfully. “But usually exchange students are students from other countries. Do you know where he comes from, Mack?”

"Ahhh…" Makenzie starts thinking of an answer

The truth is that Mackenzie didn't pay much attention to this student's details because he wanted to save them for when he finally met him. "France?" Mackenzie manages to say unsurely. “I don't know, but I know he speaks French."

“Phew,” Lucky said. “It’s a good thing Bluey and her family know French.”

"Yeah, probably, and Bluey's going to get him into our group,” Rusty says.

"He's probably better at video games than we are" Winston adds.

"Well, we'll learn from him,” adds an optimistic Jack.

*RINGGGG*

Out of nowhere, Mackenzie's phone starts ringing in front of him. With a confused frown on his face, Mackenzie picks up the phone to look at the screen, but when he looks, a smile appears on his face, and his tail starts wagging in joy.

On the screen was a profile picture with a picture of him and his best friend arm in arm at the Glasshouse Elementary School graduation with the name underneath "BLUEY BEST FRIEND"

"Guys, I'm going to leave for a second, okay?” Mackenzie warns.

"Ok," Rusty Snicker and Winston manage to say before continuing to talk to each other.

With his friends busy, Mackenzie turns his attention to his phone, which has an incoming call from his best friend. He swipes the green circle to accept the call and places the phone to his right ear without first lifting his ear with his own phone.

"Mackenzie!” the sweet voice of the blue Heeler comes from the phone

"Hey Bluey, how's my favorite Heeler friend?” Mackenzie asks with a cheerful tone.

"I'm fine, but…" Bluey says before continuing in a low voice, "Don't let Bingo hear you say that.”

"Why? I love all my friends equally… well… some more than others," Mackenzie jokes

"Hahaha.” Bluey's laughter can be heard over the phone. “Who am I talking to? Mackenzie or Comrade Mackenzie?"

"Hahahaha," the two best friends laugh. It's been 11 years since Bluey and Mackenzie met at Glasshouse Elementary School, and their relationship has no end in sight. At this point, they were already siblings from another Mother, knowing everything about each other and with a confidence that has no limits. But if someone asks Mackenzie about his relationship with Bluey, he would wish it wasn't like that.

It's been 11 years since Mackenzie had the feeling of being something more with Bluey, of becoming her proud boyfriend and spending his whole life with the cheerful and pretty blue Heeler, but his own fear and dread made Mackenzie not take the next step towards dating and stay in the comfort of friendship, like a teenage love movie in high school.

After laughing for a few seconds, Mackenzie regains his composure. “It depends on what you want to tell me, Bluey.”

"Well…" Bluey regains her composure as well and continues talking. "My family and I are going to the cinema to see the new superhero movie, but Bingo invited Lila to go with us, so… would you like to go with me?”

A slight wave of sadness invaded the Border Collie's heart, and his smile changed to a sad grimace. As much as he would like to spend time with Bluey, he had to be present at the airport to receive the exchange student.

"I would like to, but…" Mackenzie began to speak, expressing his sadness, “I have to go with my family to the airport tonight to pick up the boy who is going to study with us.”

"Aw, okay…" Bluey said with sadness in her voice. “I was hoping to hang out with you before I go to camp.”

"But I'll be here when you get back" Mackenzie reassures her friend, forcing a cheerful voice “If you want I can watch the movie with you, or you can tell me how your day went… you know I'm all ears.

"Yes, but I don't fully trust that you are "all ears" haha," Bluey says laughing

"Well, I do my best, and that…is enough for you," Mackenzie says with a smile, even though Bluey doesn't see it.

"Yeah... well... I was just calling to tell you that... I have to go, see you later, Mackenzie.”

"See you later Bluey” Mackenzie says goodbye and hangs up the call

After the call, Mackenzie moved the phone to see the background screen. It was a group photo of some of his friends that he had grown up with these past 11 years. Rusty, Jack, Winston, Snicker, Pretzle, and even his other friends like Indy, Honey, Chloe, and Coco were there, but his gaze was at the center of the group, where Bluey and him were hugging each other's shoulders.

"One of these days, I'm going to tell him how I feel, " thought Mackenzie, looking at the old photo.

Mackenzie turned his attention to his monitor with "disclaw" open and noticed that he had a private message from Rusty. He opened the message and was surprised to realize that it was only a one word message.

"BLUEY?"

Mackenzie, with a smile, just responds back with some heart emojis

"YEAH"

---

*Brisbane Airport Terminal*

It was already 10 p.m. at the airport terminal, and in the arrivals lobby, family members of all races and colors were waiting for their relatives. Some families were also waiting for the international exchange students eager to experience the culture of the land down under.

Among the families waiting was also the Border Collie family: the parents, a black and white Border Collie, a brown and white Border Collie, and Mackenzie. The latter was looking intently and annoyed at the board of arrival flights—more specifically, at a flight that left Hawaii before sunset.

"I would have gone with Bluey to the cinema," thought an impatient Mackenzie.

"When is this boy coming?" asks a grumpy Mackenzie, looking at his father.

"Soon, son, soon," Mackenzie's father says calmly to reassure his son.

When Mackenzie looks at the billboard again, Out of the Blue, it updates, and the flight with the exchange students from Hawaii is already showing as "LANDED."

"Ok, it's time, "Mackenzie's mother said. "Son, take this.”

Mackenzie's mother hands her a white scroll that she had in her hand, and by instinct, Mackenzie decides to open the scroll.

With the scroll now open, Mackenzie reads the contents. "Welcome to Australia…huh?” Mackenzie's mind gets stuck trying to pronounce what was on the scroll.

" That has to be this boy's name… "the border collie thought with a confused and amazed grimace. " ...god, he has to be the final boss of France .”

Mackenzie rolls up the paper still with the same grimace and fixes his gaze towards the immigration exit to wait for the boy. With each passing minute, he begins to experience more nerves and anxiety as he raises and lowers his legs; this was going to be his first experience with this kind of teenager, but he already knew the requirements to be one.

Almost perfect grades

Learn a new language.

The courage to live on your own in an unknown country.

Mackenzie could easily admit it. Whoever lived with him would be far superior in all academic and social aspects.

After 15 minutes of waiting, the first exchange students leave immigration control towards their host families.

"Mackenzie, the sign," Mackenzie's mother warned her son. Listening to her mother, Mackenzie unrolled and raised the sign as if she were at a wrestling event. With the sign already up, Mackenzie prepared to watch as the first exchange students finally met their host families. Even there, Mackenzie couldn't help the aura of pure responsibility that these teenagers gave off.

As the minutes passed, the border collie's heartbeat began to beat faster because he knew that at any moment, he would meet the boy who was going to share the house in his last year of school.

And his soul almost left his body when he heard his father say

"I think that's him…" he says, pointing to a dark navy blue Labrador.

In the distance, a dark navy blue Labrador was walking and moving his head like a radar disk to find his host family. The Labrador was wearing a red cap with the Canadian flag printed on the side and a red backpack on his back. He was dragging a suitcase with a neck pillow hanging from one of its bars.

Thanks to Mackenzie's sign-lifting skills, the dark blue Labrador notices the family of border collies with raised eyebrows and walks faster to head toward them. As he gets closer, the Labrador's smile can be seen, the result of having spent countless hours on a plane to get to his destination.

With the Labrador close enough, Mackenzie finally lowers the sign, and his parents move toward the Labrador to greet him.

"Bienvenue à Brisbane," The Border-collie mother says in her best French interpretation.

"Oh?" the Labrador stops dead upon hearing his native language and points to Mrs. Border-Collie. "Tu parles français? ”

"Ahhh, No French, no French, hahaha. " The border-collie father defends himself by waving his palms, which makes the Labrador and his wife laugh.

After laughing, the Labrador started speaking in English with a French accent. “Nice to finally meet you, Mr. and Mrs. Border-Collie.”

"Oh, the pleasure is all ours," the border collie mother says affectionately, placing a hand over her heart and then pointing to herself, her husband, and her son. “I am Mel. My husband's name is Fozzie, and my son's name is-”

"Mackenzie," Mackenzie says as the border collie parents part ways, revealing the presence of the teenager to the Labrador

"Mackenzie Border-collie." He introduces himself, extending his paw to the Labrador.

The Labrador sees the hand and plays along by shaking Mackenzie's paw. During the handshake, the Labrador finally introduces himself.

"Jean-Luc Labrador”

Chapter 2: New home, new family

Notes:

Jean-Luc's POV or any other character that speaks French is going to be mark as (). Writing the same sentence in two languages is tough

*11 Years Ago*

*Brisbane Airport*

It was a busy day at the Australian city's airport, a pocket world where the atmosphere differed from the outside. Dogs of all sizes and breeds were sleeping, having breakfast, having dinner, walking, waiting, boarding, and disembarking the planes. Among the dogs occupied in their own world, a family of dark blue Labradors was waiting, sitting down near one of the boarding gates.

The father Labrador was on his phone checking work emails while his wife and son were watching a children's show on the mother's phone until suddenly, the speaker started ringing with a female voice.

"Flight A-1719 bound for Vancouver is starting to board passengers; please, first class passengers, board the plane first."

A handful of dogs got up from their seats and walked to the boarding gate, all under the gaze of a blue Labrador boy who did not look happy at all.

The mother Labrador, with blue glasses, notices her son's face and asks in French, "(Are you okay, darling?)."

The Labrador boy looks at his mother and answers,"(Yes, I'm okay)" but he keeps that tone of sadness in his voice.

"(I know you son, I know you're not okay)" Says the mother Labrador

The boy finally sighs and confesses, "(I don't want to leave Brisbane)."

The Labrador mother smiles and begins to caress her son's head. "(I know Son...but the holidays are over, we have to go back to work and you have to go to school...Our time in Brisbane may be short, but at least we enjoy it as a family, right?)"

"(Yes...I met my friend from camp, and we caught a wild pig together)" said the boy with a slight tone of enthusiasm while wagging his tail slightly

"(That makes this whole trip worth it)" said the Labrador mother, but she finished speaking just in time before the speaker spoke again.

"Passengers in the economy class of flight A-1719 bound for Vancouver, please board the plane."

"(Ok, it's our turn)," said the Labrador father as he took his carry-on bags. He is the only family member who knows the country's native language. That's how he manages to understand the instructions at the airport.

Following his father, the boy gets up and puts his backpack on his back to follow his parents. The boy asked his mother when the family was already lining up to go through the check-in.

"(Mom…when will we return to Australia?)"

"(I don't know son… who knows? The world is a magical place) " the mother answered looking at her son

It was the Labradors turn to scan the boarding passes. Thanks to the technology present in the place, only a quick scan was needed, and they were ready to board the plane.

"Enjoy your flight," says the Golden retriever who represents the airline

"Thank you," answered the Labrador father and walked with his family through the tunnel toward the plane

When the family was already in the tunnel's center, the boy turned his head back to take a last look at Brisbane and whispered.

"Au revoir Brisbane, au revoir Australie, au revoir Bluey"

---

*One week later*

*Quebec City, Canada*

Despite its location in the north of the American continent, it was a sunny day countered by a slightly chilly wind in the small and proud city adjacent to the St Lawrence River.

As the citizens of the city walked through the streets like blood in a heart. In an elementary school located on the outskirts of the city next to the river, a 25-year-old Canadian Eskimo teacher with a white body and a white and brown face stands still with her gaze in front of the door. She sighs to gather strength and enters her classroom to, as expected, find a classroom full of children chatting as if there were no tomorrow.

The teacher stood in the middle of the blackboard and shouted in French, "(CHILDREN!)"

With a single shout, the children stop talking to pay attention to their teacher. "(Well…Good morning, class)"

"(Good morning teacher Juneau) " the class responded

"(Oh come on class…)" Juneau pretended to complain to her class "(with enthusiasm, with feeling, Good morning class!)

"(Good morning, teacher Juneau) " the class responded with more enthusiasm

"(Okay, today we're supposed to do some math exercises but…)" says Juneau before putting an index finger up "(today we have a very special guest)"

Juneau's class exploded with excitement, not because of the news but because they will not do math exercises so early in the morning.

"(Shhhhh…)" Juneau instructs her class to keep quiet "(She works on this exchange student program with the Quebec Ministry of Education and she-)"

Out of nowhere, a red husky girl interrupted Juneau by raising her hand, and Juneau points to her to give her permission to speak "(What is the Ministry of Education Professor Juneau.)"

"(Oh…)" Juneau puts a hand over her mouth. She wasn't expecting that question "(Good question Jenna…)"

Juneau balances a finger over her mouth, thinking of an answer "(...In a few words they are in charge of managing the schools here in Quebec Jenna)"

"(Oh, Ok)" the red husky nods

Having already answered her student's question. Juneau wipes her forehead and whispers to herself in English so that the kids won't understand her. "Stop using complicated words, Juneau"

Juneau clears her throat and continues explaining to her students in French. "(As I was saying, she's going to give some presentations at nearby high schools and she needs your help to practice her presentation about exchange students…)"

Out of nowhere, another student raised his hand to speak. It was a black Chihuahua, and as before, Juneau permitted him to speak.

"(What is an exchange student?)" asked the Chihuahua innocently

"(Excellent question Teodoro)" Juneau says amicably

"(But I said I want you to call me 'Thatcher')" The Chihuahua protested, causing the class to laugh

"(Yes, of course, 'Thatcher,' I will try not to forget it)" Juneau quickly corrected herself while rolling her eyes to clear her throat again and continue talking." (As I was saying… Our special guest can answer that question for you…Boys and Girls, meet…)" says Juneau excitedly with both arms pointing to the door "(Alice Qimmit, or as I like to call her… My little sister)

The class pays attention to the door to see a 23-year-old Eskimo dog poke her head into the classroom.

"(Hello, kids)" Alice greets nervously and enters the classroom entirely. Unlike her sister. The brown tones extended past her face, resulting in a 50/50 combination of white and brown on her body.

"(Hi Alice)" the kids waved back at Alice

"(Hi, sis)" Juneau hugged her sister still in front of the whiteboard

Alice breaks the hug and half whispers in English, "You could have done something else, right? Like, make them clap or something."

Juneau laughs lightly and says "Well, first time for everything, right?... Look, I'm going to set up the projector. Keep them busy in the meantime."

"What?" Alice exclaimed, "Isn't that your job?"

"Yes, but I'm not ready to set up the projector and deal with six-year-olds at the same time," said Juneau as she headed to her desk that had her laptop on it. "Also, someone asked what an 'Exchange Student´is, so maybe you can start there"

"Ok." Alice nodded and turned her attention with her nerves on edge to the class

Now, it was just Alice with her sister's class. With her nervous face, Alice could see the children in front of her: several Canadian Eskimos and Huskies of different colors and patterns, a Chihuahua, two Dalmatians, a terrier, and a golden retriever. And to her surprise, there was only one dark navy blue Labrador in the class.

After a minute of gathering her courage, Alice came up with an idea to fight her nerves and began to speak to the class in French "(Well guys… as my sister said, I work for this program that coordinates everything related to exchange students, and today I am going to explain to you what an "exchange student" is but first...I would like to get to know you a little better because I think this is not going to be my first time here)" Alice explained, causing several "Huhs"s in the class

"(And how are you going to do that little sister)" said Juneau still working on the laptop

"(Good question)" said Alice placing her right hand on her chin "(How about you guys tell me what you did on your vacation)

Alice's suggestion bears fruit. The children are surprised, and soon they all speak simultaneously. Causing Alice to put both of her hands on her ears to protect her eardrums

"(SILENCE)" Juneau shouted in French to regain control of the class and looked at Alice, who still had her ears covered and said, "Welcome to my world…(Class!…)" Juneau called the attention of her class "(Let's do it like this, raise your hands like we've always done and Alice is going to choose one and stand up to tell his adventure. Okay class?)

"(Ok teacher Juneau)" the class responded

With the situation under control, Alice sees how the entire class raised their hands in the hope of being chosen. But as before, a dark navy blue Labrador caught her eye.

"(You…)" Alice pointed at the Labrador and stood up under the sighs of his disappointed companions" (...What's your name)

"(My name is Jean-Luc)" the Labrador introduces himself

Juneau looks up with a frown at Jean-Luc. "('Madan' Alice)"

"(Madam Alice)" Jean-Luc quickly corrected himself

"It's not that bad" Alice said under her breath before raising her voice "(Tell us Jean Luc, how was your vacation)"

"(It was amazing, Mrs. Alice)" Jean-Luc began to tell" (I spent a large part of my summer in Brisbane. I went to the beach, visited a giant peanut, and also went camping with my parents, where I built a house of sticks and hunted a wild pig with a blue girl I met)

"(A girl!)" Thatcher exclaimed, looking suddenly at Jean-Luc

"(Blue girl!)" A black and white husky exclaimed and suddenly looked at Jean-Luc who was next to him

"(Wild pig!)" Juneau and Alice exclaimed at the same time with their eyes totally open

The four dogs began to drown Jean-Luc with questions until Juneau noticed how Jean-Luc covered his stomach with his arms, his ears were down, and his tail was holding one of his legs.

"(Alright, that's enough!)" Juneau shouted, making Alice, Thatcher, and the Husky fall silent "(First things first. Did you really hunt a wild pig in Brisbane?)"

"(Well…)" Jean-Luc looked up trying to think of something "(I actually think it was the girl's dad because he's so fat)"

Jean-Luc's comment caused the class to laugh, but Juneau and Alice just sighed in relief.

"(My turn)" The husky exclaimed and stood up while clearing his throat "(You're a liar Jean-Luc)

"(Louis…)" Juneau calls the husky with a reluctant tone

"(What?... Blue dogs don't exist so Jean-Luc's story is false)" Louis acuse him causing several murmurs in the classroom

"(Actually…)" Alice comes to the rescue with her index finger up "(Blue dogs do exist)

"(Oh really?)" Louis reacts confused

"(Yes… I studied with some of them when I was in Melbourne, Australia)" Alice explained to the class "(If I'm not mistaken, that breed is called "Australian Cattle Dog" or simply Blue Heeler)"

"Ohh" the class reacts

"(Also Louis… Jean-Luc is technically blue)" Juneau intervenes, looking at Louis with her eyes half closed while still on her laptop trying to get the projector to work

"(Really…?)" Louis wondered "(I always thought Jean-Luc was purple)"

Louis's comment causes Jean-Luc to look at his own fur that was on his arm and think "(Ah… I'd never thought about it before)" but a piece of information that Alice said caught his attention "(So you went to Australia?)"

Alice nods with excitement "(Yes!... I spent my first year as an exchange student at Melbourne University… I learned a lot of things there and met a lot of my friends)"

The class sank into a collective "Wow," and Alice realized she had control of the class for the first time.

Her doubts and nerves were gone.

The stage was clear for her.

Even without the projector in her sister's classroom, Alice was ready to rock her presentation.

And with a smile on his face, the Canadian Eskimo begins her act "(My time in Melbourne is a classic example of an "exchange student." A high school or college volunteer who goes to other countries to study at their schools and learn about the local culture…)"

Jean-Luc raised his hand to speak, and Alice noticed him "(Yes Jean-Luc?)

"(Can we go to any country we want?)" Jean-Luc asked

"(Ahh not exactly, volunteers have to choose a country with a different native language, this is to encourage the learning of different languages in students)" explained Alice to Jean-Luc

"(But if we learn the native language of the country… can we still go to any country?)" Jean-Luc continues asking

"(Yeah, sure…)" says Alice making Jean-Luc's tail move slightly "(There are several requirements, but the most important ones are learning the language and having good grades)"

"(So if I study really hard, I can go to Australia as a exchange student?)" Jean-Luc asked

Alice nods and says "(Yeah sure, of course… I even met quite a few dogs from here in Australia. There's something about Australians that attracts quite a few people)"

Jean-Luc upon receiving Alice's answer, whispered "(I agree)"

After struggling for a while with the computer, Juneau says to Alice, "(I'm ready here)."

Juneau turns on the projector hanging from the ceiling of the classroom, lights up the whiteboard, and the first page of Alice's presentation appears.

"Hooray!" Alice and the class celebrate with their arms extended.

"You really took your time, didn't you?" Alice jokes to her sister.

"Shut up," said Juneau, annoyed with her sister

With the projector running, Alice turns her attention to her class "(Ready to learn more?)"

The class responds resoundingly with a "QUI". Especially Jean-Luc, who sat down at the same time as Louis

"(Okay, let's go)" Alice continues with her presentation

For the next 30 minutes, Alice explained how it works and also shared her experiences as an exchange student. All this was done under the watchful eye of Jean-Luc. During the presentation, he noticed how some of his classmates were getting distracted or simply not paying much attention to him, but he remained firm with the desire to learn more. And that was something that Alice quickly noticed.

*Ringgggg*

The school bell rang, indicating to the students that it was time for recess, and with no time to waste, Juneau's class left the classroom immediately. Jean-Luc was going to be the last one to leave until

"(Hey, Jean-Luc)" Alice called him

Not knowing any better, Jean-Luc listens to her and stays in the room to talk to Alice.

With Jean-Luc in front of her, Alice bends down to be at the boy's height and says "(Hey... it may take you a while to understand this but... I'm glad you participated in my presentation)"

"(Yeah, sure )" Jean-Luc says nervously about the situation

Alice laughs inside herself and says "(Hey, you don't need to call me a Ms anymore. It makes me feel old like your teacher)" she and Jean-Luc laugh at her own joke

When the two dogs stop laughing. Alice continues"(Jean-Luc…I need you to do yourself a favor)"

"(Yes…Alice)"

Alice took a moment to look at the Labrador's face and eyes "(You are a very special kid, you know? And kids like you usually go very far in this life…so please…Don't change)"

Jean-Luc took a moment to think about what Alice told him "(Okay)"

"(Go…your friends are waiting for you)" Alice pointed to the door, indicating that she has finished talking to him

Jean-Luc nods and leaves the classroom, leaving Alice and her sister Juneau alone. The latter approaches from behind her sister eating an apple and says "I'm not that old" Earning a frown from her.

Jean-Luc leaves the classroom to find Louis and Thatcher waiting for the Labrador.

"(What happened there?)" Louis asked

"(Nothing...)" Jean-Luc answered the Husky, and the three friends begin to walk toward the playground"(...but.)"

"(I have an idea)"

"(A very crazy idea)"

---

*11 years later*

*Quebec City Airport Terminal*

It was 7 a.m. on another busy day at the airport terminal when 16-year-old Labrador Jean-Luc, his family, and childhood friend Louis walked through the sliding doors. But only Jean-Luc had a backpack and carry-on bag to travel with.

As the group stood in front of the security checkpoint, that served as a barrier between the terminal and the boarding gates, Jean-Luc turned to his family and friend.

"(Well…it's time for me to go)" Jean-Luc said before approaching his mother to hug her.

Jean-Luc's mother accepted the hug and said over his dark blue shoulders with tears falling from her eyes "(No matter what happens, we will always be proud of you sweetheart)"

"(I know Mom)" Jean-Luc says before separating from his mother and going to his father to hug him.

In the middle of the father and son hug. Jean-Luc's dad says over his son's shoulders, "(You remember what we talked about, right?)."

Jean-Luc pulls away and says with a hint of annoyance and with his eyes rolling "(Treat everyone with respect and don't do anything stupid. I know Dad)"

Jean-Luc's dad raised his hands slightly up and said "(I'm just trying to do my duty son. You'll understand that someday)."

Jean-Luc laughed under his breath and finally had to say goodbye to his best friend, 16-year-old Louis. Despite his fur pattern, Louis could be seen with ear muffs from getting up early. The husky already had his arms open, and without thinking twice, Jean-Luc threw himself at Louis, giving him a firm hug.

In the middle of the hug, Louis whispered on Jean-Luc's shoulder, "(Mom raised a guardian...)"

"(...Not a coward)" Jean-Luc finished the sentence and separated from him

When Jean-Luc finished saying goodbye to his family and friend. He grabbed his carry-on bag and said "(I'll try to keep you posted on where I am, but keep in mind the time difference)"

"(We already know, Honey, don't worry)" Jean-Luc's mom reassures him

Jean-Luc turned to the security checkpoint and said, "(Quebec, Vancouver, Hawaii, and Brisbane… eh, I've been through worse)," and the lab started walking.

As he was walking, he managed to hear his friend's voice say, "(Go get them, Jean-Luc!)" followed by his father saying, "(Try to bring an Australian girl home, son)"

His father's sentence caused him to turn around to see his friend laughing and his mother covering her eyes in embarrassment, but Jean-Luc decided to play along with his father.

"(I'll try, Dad)" Jean-Luc says before putting his cap with the Canadian flag printed on it on the side and waving his right hand in farewell

Jean-Luc turns again and stares forward, towards the security checkpoint, towards Australia, towards Brisbane… towards Bluey.

---

*3 Days Later*

*Brisbane Airport, Australia*

It was 11 pm with the cold of the night entering the Brisbane Airport parking lot. There wasn't much life in the sea of cars, except for a family of 3 Border-Collies and Jean-Luc, who were walking towards the family pickup truck.

"Mackenzie, help Jan-Luc load his bags" instructs Mel, the mother Border Collie. Jean-Luc only rolled his eyes at the mispronounced name, but he was expecting that

"Yes Mom" says Mackenzie, the only boy in the family. When the family was getting near the pickup truck, the adults got into the vehicle as Mackenzie climbed onto the open trunk of the vehicle

Jean-Luc understands what Mackenzie wants to do. He stands on the right side of the pickup and lifts the carry-on bag to the Border Collie. Mackenzie grabs the bag and asks "Hey, remind me again where you are coming from?"

Jean-Luc answers in English with a French accent, "Quebec, Canada."

"Really?" Mackenzie answers with a confused grimace "Don't Canadians speak English over there?"

"Yes, but in Quebec, we speak French" Jean-Luc explains as he handles the backpack to Mackenzie

Mackenzie grabs the backpack and asks again, "Let me guess?… France had something to do with that." The Border Collie leaves the backpack alongside the suitcase in the open trunk, and leaning on the bodywork, Mackenzie jumps out where Jean-Luc is. When he lands, he meets the Labrador face-to-face, who just nods.

After nodding, Jean-Luc said, "It's a long story."

"Ok let's go" Mackenzie says and opens the passenger door for Jean-Luc, who gets in right away

Already in the vehicle, Jean-Luc takes off his cap and sighs, but Mackenzie interrupts him "You better move to the other window. You'll be able to see the city better"

Following Mackenzie's advice, Jean-Luc moves to the other window, vacating the seat so Mackenzie can get in the truck. This causes Mackenzie to be behind his father, who is going to drive, and Jean-Luc behind Mel, who will be the co-pilot.

Fozzie, the adult Border Collie, starts the car and prepares to leave the parking lot. When they manage to be outside, the family finds themselves on a lonely street covered in darkness. Fozzie looks in the rearview mirror and notices how Jean-Luc has his head back, looking into the darkness of the night while letting his body feel every millimeter of the upholstery that he so lacked on the flights on the way to Brisbane.

"Long trip?" Fozzie asks Jean-Luc.

Jean-Luc notices that the question is from him, so he answers, "Yes… I never thought this would be difficult"

"Well at least you're here Jan-Luke and you're going to rest soon…" Mel joins in the conversation "Besides, I talked to Alice, and she told me she was going to let you rest for a few days"

Mel and Fozzie didn't notice, but Jean-Luc smiled. "That's why I love her so much"

"Yes, me too…Plus, we managed to have some days off starting tomorrow, so what you want to do tomorrow is up to you. Jan Luke" Says Mel

"(I'm going to get tired of "Jan-Luke" sooner or later)" The Labrador thinks in French with annoyance but looks up to think about what Mel said "(A day of rest sounds good... But you didn't come to rest, right?)"

"I want to go to a place I visited 11 years ago during my childhood..." Says Jean-Luc with a smile "...But besides that, I want to explore Brisbane"

"Well, you're in luck..." Fozzie speaks as he enters the ramp that connects to the highway and points to the horizon. "Welcome to Brisbane"

When Fozzie finished going up the ramp to the highway, Jean-Luc slowly raised his head from his seat and noticed small lights of various colors in the distance that formed lines towards the sky. It didn't take Jean-Luc long to realize that they were skyscrapers.

"Wow" Jean-Luc barely manages to make that sound. Coming from a small city, he doesn't have many opportunities to see giant skyscrapers, so without thinking twice, Jean-Luc takes out his phone to take a picture of them, but a voice behind him stops him

"Hey…" It was Mackenzie watching how the city center lights managed to amaze the Labrador "... Wait until we are closer. We are going to pass by the center"

"Really?"

Mackenzie just nodded and leaned towards to the front seats "Mom, if you want, I can make a list of things to explore in the city"

"Good idea Mackenzie…How about you also involve your friends too" Mel says

"Ehhh…Not yet" Mackenzie encloses his eyes with his cheek at the idea "I want to wait a little before introducing him"

"But Mackenzie, we all know how excited we are to receive him" Fozzie joins in the conversation "It would be unfair to keep Jack-Luc away as if he were a treasure"

"(This was not in the brochure…)" Thinks Jean-Luc in French when hearing another version of his name

"Alice also told me that one of the reasons he's here is to meet new people from other countries. We have to open the horizons to Jan-Luke." Mel says trying to convince her son

Jean-Luc couldn't help but hear the mess going on, so he decided to intervene. "I know Alice said that, but it doesn't mean I have to follow every word she says. If Mackenzie wants to wait for me to meet his friends, that's fine with me," Jean-Luc finishes speaking before turning his attention to the city.

Mackenzie notices how his mother rolls her eyes at her husband, but he quickly shrugs his shoulders. "Besides... All my friends go to the same school, so he'll meet them sooner or later," Mackenzie finishes speaking before returning to his seat.

The car sank into silence as it moved towards the city's center, something Jean-Luc anxiously awaited until he felt something next to his seat. Jean-Luc looked at what it was, but it was only Mackenzie who approached his window.

"What?..." Mackenzie notices how Jean-Luc looks at him strangely. "It's boring to be on the other side of the car."

"Yeah..." Jean-Luc looked out the window again at the buildings that were approaching. "We don't have something like this in Quebec."

"Really?" Mackenzie asks

"Yes" Jean-Luc looks back at Mackenzie "It's a very small and old city, with its bridge and a stone fortress"

"A stone fortress?" Mackenzie asks incredulously

Jean-Luc nods his head. "Do you remember the French?...they built it when they founded the city."

"Wow, That has to be very cool to see" Mackenzie reacts ameazed

"Yeah, but you get bored after seeing it so many times," Jean-Luc says before looking out the window again. "It was time to see something different"

"You mean the city? Yeah, I get it…it's a really nice city, Luke" Mackenzie says, causing Jean-Luc to turn his head toward him

Jean-Luc looks at Mackenzie with half-closed eyes until Mackenzie says, "Give me a break…your name isn't easy to pronounce."

Jean-Luc replaces his half-closed eyes with a friendly smile "Don't worry Mackenzie, I can live as "Luke" for now"

Mackenzie smiles back at Jean-Luc "You know what…just call me Mack"

"Mack…" Jean-Luc moves his eyes up to think about it. "Yeah, I think I can get used to it."

"Yeah, my best friends call me Mack, It's easier to say than Mackenzie."

"I've only been in Brisbane for 2 hours and am already best friends with someone" Jean-Luc asks in astonishment, while only Mackenzie shrugs and nods. "That was fast."

"Yeah, hey look" Mackenzie points out the window

Jean-Luc does as he says and looks out to see the skyscrapers that makeup downtown Brisbane. "Wow!" Jean-Luc reacts and takes the opportunity to start taking photos of the large size of the skyscrapers.

Fozzie looks at Jean-Luc and Mackenzie through the rearview mirror and with his fingers on the steering wheel, activates the flashing light to turn left and exit the highway. Mel hears the flashing lights and asks her husband "What are you doing?"

Fozzie answers, "We're going to take the scenic route home"

Upon hearing this, Jean-Luc and Mackenzie look into each other's eyes and the border collie says "Oh, now you're going to get to know Brisbane Luke" Mackenzie comes back to snuggle up to his side and Fozzie pulls off the highway heading towards the city center

As they got closer and closer to the center, Jean-Luc could see the buildings getting bigger and Brisbane's nightlife getting more and more noticeable until they finally reached the foot of some of the skyscrapers

Jean-Luc was stunned to see the scene he was witnessing. Brisbane's nightlife was at its best. On the streets, there were still groups of dogs that Jean-Luc didn't usually see much in his homeland going from bar to bar, the occasional drummer showing off their skills and electronic music coming out of the nightclubs at full blast. This caused Jean-Luc's tail to start wagging with the emotions that were running through his head. He could hardly believe what he was experiencing in his mind. 11 years of hard work were paying off and he had every desire to make the most of it, and Jean-Luc had an idea of how to do it

"Hey Madam Mel, Monsieur Fozzie!" Jean-Luc calls the Border-Collie parents "Can I roll down the window? "

Mel looked at Jean-Luc and nodded several times, but Fozzie just showed his thumb up

With the green light, Jean-Luc rolls down the window, and like the good dog that he is, he sticks his head…or half his body out the window to feel the wind from the southern hemisphere pass through his fur. This brings out the feelings inside him that were hidden when he was six years old. Jean-Luc had no time to think that what he was doing was illegal, but he didn't care, especially if he had accumulated more than 24 hours on a plane to get here.

Jean-Luc hears a group of young adults shouting "HEYYYY" out of nowhere with their beers up. The Labrador just repeats the gesture but pumps his fists in the air like an athlete who has just won a championship.

As Fozzie drives past the group of adults, Jean-Luc looks across the truck and is surprised to see the teenage Border-Collie imitating the position he was doing. Mackenzie notices Jean-Luc's gaze and shouts over the roof of the truck "WHAT DO YOU THINK OF BRISBANE LUKE."

Jean-Luc's big smile forms when he sees what Mackenzie did. "I'M LOVING IT"

With his head still out, tail wagging at full speed and emotions running at a thousand miles an hour. Jean-Luc couldn't help it much longer. He raises his head to the sky and shouts in French "JE SUIS DE RETOUR BRISBANE! WOOOOOHOOOOOO"

Mackenzie laughs amiably at Jean-Luc, then looks ahead and points. "LOOK, LUKE" Jean-Luc looks where Mackenzie is pointing, and his mouth drops in amazement at what is in front of him

The Border-Collie's truck was about to pass through the Story Bridge, an Australian engineering feat and Brisbane tourist site. The bridge's lights were lit up in a purple color. Jean-Luc looks around with his mouth open in amazement, he looks at the purple-lit bridge pillars, the Brisbane River reflecting the bridge lights, and finally, another clear view of the city's skyscrapers

Jean-Luc takes the opportunity to take a photo of the skyscrapers and the river but turns his head when he hears Mackenzie say, "HEY"

The Labrador turns and sees Mackenzie spread his arms out and yells, "WELCOME TO BRISBANE LUKE."

However, Mel decides to cut the scene of the boys. "HEY, GET YOUR HEADS IN THE CAR BECAUSE I DON'T WANT TO DEAL WITH THE POLICE SO LATE"

The boys listened and got back into the compartment. Once inside, Fozzie crosses the bridge completely. He finally changes direction and sets his course toward his home…and Jean-Luc's new home as well.

---

*Border-Collie House*

It was 12 midnight and the Border-Collie family finally arrived at their home. A modern two-story white and gray house. A significant upgrade from their old and first home that was across the street

As Fozzie finishes parking the pickup truck in front of the garage, Mel says "Mackenzie, could you please unload Jan-Luke's Luggage? Honey, you help him too."

"Ok," the two Border Collies respond

As the two canines were preparing to unload the Labrador's backpack and suitcase, Mel and Jean-Luc arrive at the front door

"Well Jan-Luke" Mel says, placing the key in the lock and opening the door. "Welcome to your new home."

"Oh," Jean-Luc enters first and sees the humble decor of the living room and the kitchen. The living room has its brown sofa in front of a shelf with a 60-inch television on top and several pieces of art of New Zealand origin. The kitchen had a fridge, oven, microwave, and cabinets colored white and brown. Next to the kitchen, there was a table with four wooden chairs, and not far away was a staircase that led to the upper floor

"Come with me" Mel says, starting to climb the stairs with Jean-Luc behind her

"This is the bathroom," Mel says, pointing to a door on the left side and then pointing to another room on her right. "And this is the room where Fozzie and I rest"

The two canines reach the end of the hallway where there are two other rooms, one closed on the right and another with the door open on the left. "The room on the right is Mackenzie's, and yours is this one" Mel says, pointing to the room with the door open.

Jean-Luc pokes his head into his room and is amazed at what he sees. inside the four white walls of the room, there was a large white bed, a window overlooking the street, a 40-inch television on the wall, a wooden table with a flashlight to do homework and a small room that also functioned as a closet. but there were also Mackenzie and Fozzie, who finished bringing Jean-Luc's luggage

The two Border-Collies noticed Jean-Luc's presence and understood that it was time to leave the room, Fozzie leaves without problems but Mel stops Mackenzie

"Son, take this" Mel says giving a sign with a rope attached to the ends to Mackenzie

The sign that Mel gave Mackenzie had a green background with the words "AVAILABLE" and the other side of the sign had a red background with the words "NOT AVAILABLE"

"If Jan-Luke has a problem or a doubt, he can consult with us as long as the sign is green" Mel explains to the two boys about how the sign is going to work. "This is one of the many rules that we are going to talk about tomorrow."

"I agree," Mackenzie says with tiredness visible on his face. "I'm going to my room

Mackenzie was about to leave Jean-Luc's room but stopped in the door frame to look back and ask "How do you say 'good night' in French"

"bonne nuit" Jean-Luc answers

"Bon nuit" Luke, good night Mom" Mackenzie says goodbye before returning to his room but not before placing the sign on the handle with the green background "AVAILABLE" pointing outwards

With Mackenzie and Fozzie in their rooms. Mel yawns and says "Well I have to go, "Bon-in" Jan-Luke"

Jean-Luc rolls his eyes with a smile and says "Bonne nuit, madame Mel"

Mel leaves Jean-Luc's room and goes to close the door but stops before closing it completely. "Hey, I know you've heard it many times…but it's worth repeating again…Welcome to Brisbane Jan-Luke"

Jean-Luc responds with a warm smile before saying, "Merci (thank you)"

Mel closes the door leaving Jean-Luc alone with his thoughts. The Labrador places his hands on his hips and begins to slowly turn around, looking at the room that the Border Collie family had prepared for him

"tu l'as fait (You made it)... tu l'as fait…tu l'as fait" The Labrador repeats to himself

"TU L'AS FAIT" Jean-Luc throws himself onto his bed and begins to move his arms as if he were making snow angels "Ha Ha Ha Ha"

After laughing like the Joker. Jean-Luc sighs and stares at the white ceiling "bois-le, mec" (Drink it, man)

With every second he spent in his bed, the Labrador's eyes were getting heavier and heavier until a reminder flashed through his mind.

"(My family!)" Jean-Luc snaps his eyes open and pulls out his phone to go to the group he created with his family and friends

Jean-Luc starts sending some pictures he took in the city center along with a message that says

Jean-Luc: Je suis arrivé à la maison. (I arrived home)

It didn't take long for the Canadian family to reply to Jean-Luc. The Labrador's mother sent a message saying, "Have fun in Brisbane," with Australian flag emojis. Jean-Luc's father just sent some confetti gifs, and his friend Louis just wrote, "Don't have so much fun over there; we still need you here in one piece."

Seeing the messages from his family and friend, Jean-Luc smiled and replied

Jean-Luc: Je veux te parler, mais je dois me reposer. Demain est une très longue journée (I want to talk to all of you, but I have to rest. Tomorrow is a very long day)

After sending the message. Jean-Luc places his phone on the floor next to the bed and, using all the strength he has left, he reaches for the light switch to have the darkness he needs to sleep.

Finally, Jean-Luc puts the heavy blanket on top of himself, arranges his pillows and thinks before closing his eyes

"(Now that I'm here…I'm going to find Bluey)"

Notes:

References:

A-1719 is a reference to the date the episode Camp in Australia premiered: April 17, 2019

"Qimmit" is dog in "Inuit" so I thought it was a good idea to have that be Juneau and Alice's last name

The character "Jenna" in Juneau's class is a reference to "Jenna" from the movie Balto, but since she's only going to appear in this episode it doesn't matter much

Juneau and Louis' "Jean-Luc is technically blue" dialogue is a way for me to get even with myself. When I uploaded the first episode and saw a picture of Jean-Luc, I immediately thought "WAIT HE'S NOT PURPLE" and literally a minute later I thought "Oh well...this is fic material." So you can take this as a lesson if you want to start writing on your own

And that's going to be a running joke in the fic so... deal with it lol

Chapter 3: Where'd you go?

*Somewhere in the woods*

It's a beautiful day to walk in the woods with no responsibilities or worries. That's just what a 17-year-old blue heeler was doing as she walked along the side of the stream. The healer kept walking until she came across a giant pink tree with a 6-year-old blue heeler who looked just like her, holding a journal in her hands.

The teenage Heeler walks up to the girl heeler, kneels before her, and asks, "Hey, little one, what are you doing here?"

The girl heeler looks up at the teen and says, "I'm waiting for someone."

"Oh yeah? Who?"

"A friend," answers the younger one. She turns her notebook around and shows the contents to the older Heeler. "This friend."

The teenage Heeler grabs the notebook and looks at the drawing of a blue Heeler that looks like the girl and her, along with a boy Labrador with dark navy blue fur. “That's weird…” the teenage Heeler says, pretending to be confused. “I know this boy.”

"For real life!? " says the girl, suddenly standing up with her tail wagging at full speed

"For real life!" She says, also wagging his tail at the same speed as the girl.

The little Heeler walks over to hug the teen's leg and says, "So, can you find him for me?"

"Ahh...I just...don't know...where he is," the teen stutters.

"Aww," the girl reacted sadly. She then returns to the tree and sits in a fetal position to cry.

Feeling helpless not to help the girl, the teenage Heeler walks to the tree and sits next to her. The teenager puts her arm around the girl and brings her closer. This causes the girl to not cry on her knees but to begin crying in the area of the teenager's stomach, and the latter starts to caress the canine's head and body.

After a few minutes of crying, the girl says, "Do you still believe what Mom said that day?"

The teenage Heeler looked lost towards the tree line where her family usually camped. "Yes, but… I think I'm stupid for believing that for so long."

"So why do you keep coming to this place?" The girl asks

"Because I'm still stupid…because I still have hope," says the teenager, still caressing the girl's head.

"And when will you stop being stupid?" the girl asks in a voice of pure innocence that makes the teenager laugh.

"Hahaha...When I die, little one," the teenager half-jokes and half tells the truth.

"Aww, but do you remember what you promised me? "

"That when I'm out there, to look for Jean-Luc?" says the teenager, remembering what she promised the girl.

"Yes," says the girl with a hint of hope in her voice.

"I remember, But…" says the teenager, looking at the girl on her lap. "...It's more complicated than leaving the house and shouting his name."

"But you did something, didn't you?" asks the girl.

"Well…" The teenager looks up in an attempt to think of something and then looks back at the girl "…I'm still improving my French.”

"(That's magnificent)" says the girl in French.

"(Of course it is)" answered the teenager.

"Hey," the girl sounds, getting up from the teenager's lap. She sits with both knees on the ground and her back straight next to the teenager. "What about Mackenzie?"

"Mackenzie?" The teenager asks confused, "What about Mackenzie?"

"You know what I mean." The girl leans her head slightly forward to add a sense of seriousness to what she is saying.

"Ugh," the teenager says, letting her head fall back and hit the tree bark. “I don't know what to do with Mackenzie… I really, really like Mackenzie… "she begins to explain. “But every time I feel like we could be something more… something happens, and I think there's nothing there. It's a lot more complicated than you think, little girl."

"I know," the girl says, leaning forward and placing her hand on the teenager's shoulder, "but we know it's possible."

The teenager reciprocates the girl's action by caressing the girl's hand on her shoulder ."We'll see."

"I think…it's time for you to go," says the girl

"Why?" asks the teenager with one eye half-closed

"Because you're going to be late," answers the girl.

---

"Bluey, wake up. It's getting late," says an orange Heeler in her fifties, shaking Bluey's body in an attempt to wake her up

*Bluey's room*

"CORRECTION, WE'RE LATE!" yelled a male voice, also in his early fifties, coming from outside Bluey's room

"Ummm…5 more minutes, Mom," says a sleepy Bluey, still covered in her blanket.

"pfff wonderful," complains Chilli, Bluey's mother

"DESPERATE SITUATIONS, DESPERATE MEASURES!" a female scream came from the next room.

Out of nowhere, Bluey felt two paws on her ankles and a pull strong enough to drag her out of bed and onto the floor with her blanket on top of her.

"HEY!" yelled a grumpy Bluey, pulling the blanket off her head. "WHAT'S WRONG WITH YOU!"

"Awake yet? Hooray, let's go," the 15-year-old orange heeler sarcastically says while showing her hand to Bluey.

Bluey reluctantly grabs the Heeler's hand. "Let this be the last time you do this, Bingo."

"Stop sleeping so much, Bluey," Bingo answers, picking Bluey up.

"You can sleep more on the way, Bluey," Chilli says, standing beside Bingo. "Brush your teeth and arrange your fur. Bingo and I will wait for you in the car".

"Yes, Mom," Bluey answers, making Chilli and Bingo leave her room.

Already awake and up. Bluey looks around the room where she sleeps. It was the same room where she had spent her first few months of life. In addition to the bed, there was a small table with a lamp and a desk to do homework next to it. On the walls were several photos of her family and friends, posters of different bands and singers, and motivational phrases. On the walls were still the luminous stars that helped her sleep. On the other side of the room was a shelf with white, yellow, orange, green, and blue belts, along with some trophies of various sizes.

"Eh, the blanket can stay there," Bluey thinks as she sees the blanket on the floor.

Bluey was about to leave her room when she stopped dead in the doorway. Then she changed course and walked to the small table next to her bed. With the table within reach, Bluey pulled the cabinet and took out a sheet of paper.

Bluey carefully holds the sheet of paper with her two paws and appreciates what was drawn on it. It was a drawing of her and the dark navy blue Labrador she met 11 years ago.

"Don't worry, little one. If Mom is right, then we should see him again someday, " Bluey thought as she put the sheet back in the cabinet and left her room.

---

*1 hour later, leaving Brisbane.*

"Where are you guys?" A voice comes out of the speaker of the family car

“Half an hour away, Stripes. We got up later than planned,” Bluey’s Dad, Bandit, answers his brother while speaking through the SAT-NAT. “Do you know anything about Rad?”

"He arrived 15 minutes ago with Frisky and Rossi," Stripes says.

"Ok, I'll see you there, Stripes." Bandit pressed the button on his steering wheel to end the call

In the back seats were Bluey and Bingo. Bingo is on her phone, and Bluey is listening to music with the red headphones connected to her phone as she is looking out the window,

*Ding*

But the sound of a notification distracts the Heeler, who forces her to check her phone and find a notification from one of the groups she is in

"THE WILD GIRLS: 4 MESSAGES"

Bluey opens the notification with curiosity and finds four messages from her friend Poodle.

Coco: GIRLS

Coco: GIRLS GIRLSSSSS

Coco: DO YOU KNOW WHAT DAY IT IS TODAY?

Coco: DOES NO ONE REALLY KNOW WHAT DAY IT IS TODAY?

"What are you trying to say, Coco?" thought Bluey, raising an eyebrow at Coco's messages and almost giggling when she saw the following message.

Judo: BUT SAY IT NOW BARBIE DOLL

"You still have work to do, Judo," thought Bluey. The chow chow may have improved her attitude over the last ten years, but she still saved that strong character for special cases.

Indy: Is it so hard for you to say, "What are you talking about, Coco"?

The Afghan hound comes in to defend her best friend, followed by another message from another member.

Winnie: HEY! WHAT HAPPENED? NO ONE TOLD ME ANYTHING.

"We're in the same boat, Winnie," Bluey thought at her Labrador best friend

Chloe: ahhhhh

Chole: Will there be an eclipse?

Chole: Are they opening a new restaurant?

Chole: Did your parents pay you?

Chloe: Are "Guardians of the Planet 3" premiering?

"Nice try, Chloe, but I don't think it's any of those," thought Bluey as she saw the messages from her Dalmatian best friend

Judo: No, that garbage was released days ago

Winnie: I thought it was decent

Indy: I already knew it was going to be a flop when it was delayed for the second time

Chloe: Thank goodness I didn't waste my time watching that movie.

"Lunatic with polka dots; I did waste my time watching it yesterday," says Bluey in her mind as she squeezes her phone in frustration. Unfortunately for Bluey and her family, the movie they saw the day before didn't meet the expectations of the Blue Heeler.

Coco: OK, YES, THE GUARDIANS ARE BAD BUT DO ANY OF YOU KNOW WHAT DAY IT IS TODAY?

"I give up; what are you trying to say, Coco?" Bluey thought, her eyes half closed. She was ready to enter the conversation, but a beagle got in first.

Honey: Today we are going to meet the exchange student who is going to stay with Mackenzie

"Oh?" The message catches Bluey by surprise until she remembers what Mackenzie said the day before

"I have to go with my family to the airport tonight to pick up the boy who will study with us."

"Oh yeah, Mackenzie went to pick him up," Bluey thought, then looked at her phone again.

Coco: YES, I'M EXCITED

Judo: Oh really?

Indy: Oh yeah, I forgot

Coco: I CAN'T WAIT TO MEET HIM

Coco: AHHHHHHHHHHH

Winnie: Wait, he's here in Australia?

Coco: YESSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS

Winnie: I hope he's handsome

Coco: I HOPE HE'S A PITBULL FROM MIAMI

Indy: Keep dreaming, beauties. Rusty already told me he's from France.

Indy: And Coco, please turn off the caps lock.

Judo: I agree. Coco stops yelling so much. IT'S 9 IN THE MORNING

Coco: THAT'S EVEN BETTER. THE FRENCH ARE SO ROMANTIC

Bluey rolls her eyes as she watches the group of ‘wild girls’ transform into the ‘fan girls.’ "Girls, I love you all, but you're all crazy," Bluey thinks. Then she turns off the phone and thinks, looking out the window at the city that saw her grow up for 17 years.

"This is so dumb," Bluey thought, "Why get so excited about someone who has to leave at the end of the year… Just… leave them, Bluey… you won't make the same mistake you made with Jean-Luc 11 years ago."

Bandit looked in the rearview mirror to check the traffic behind him, but he couldn't help but see his daughter, who had a thoughtful face. "Bluey, I know you. That's your thinking face."

Bluey couldn't help but look at her father and answer, "Oh, it's nothing, just…" Bluey raises her phone so her father can see it. "... It's ‘The Wild Girls’ Being ‘The Wild Girls’

Chilli couldn't help but laugh a little at Bluey's words."That's normal at your age, Bluey."

"What? No, I didn't mean that, Mom," Bluey says, leaning towards the driver and co-pilot seats. “The girls are excited about the exchange student's arrival."

"Is it today?" Bandit asks confused

Chilli just nods as she looks at her husband. "It was yesterday… Don't you remember what Fozzie and Mel said?"

"Oh yeah, I remember now," Bandit says, still looking at the road. "Where was he from again?

"France," Bingo enters the conversation, "Dusty told me he was coming from France."

"Oh, wonderful," Bandit says while gripping the steering wheel in excitement."I'll finally be able to talk to someone in French,"

"Dad…" Bluey says with half-closed eyes, "I know you're my dear father, but you're not that good at speaking French."

"That's why…" Chilli intervenes with an index finger up. "we can benefit from an exchange student the same way they benefit from us

"Also…" Bandit starts talking. "Can you count to 10 in French Bluey?"

"Un, Deux, Trois…"Bluey also started counting on her fingers as she counted in French so she wouldn't get lost "...Quatre, Cinq, Six, Sept, Huit, Neuf, Dix."

When Bluey finished, Chilli turned her head to Bandit and said, "She improved her pronunciation."

Bluey listened to Chilli and proudly nodded, but Bandit wasn't done yet. "Ok, you know something…" Bandit shrugged "…But have you ever given a speech in French in front of a thousand spectators?"

"Ah." Bluey stood frozen with her index finger up, trying to think what to say, but nothing came to mind. "You win this time, Dad."

Bandit laughed lightly as Bluey returned to her seat. When Bluey was already comfortable in her position, She looked at Bingo, who had a smile on her face.

When Bluey and Bingo made eye contact, Bingo put both her thumbs up and moved them from right to left. Then, she placed her index finger next to her right eye and lowered it across her cheek to the right side of her mouth.

Bluey sees all this and just rolls her eyes in annoyance. She takes her phone, writes a word, and shows it to Bingo.

"SHOW OFF"

Seeing her sister's message, Bingo smiled at Bluey before returning to what she was doing on her phone.

With the message sent, Bluey leaves her phone beside her and looks out the vehicle window.

"Maybe Mom is right," Bluey thinks. "Maybe I can learn something from him."

---

*Camping area on the outskirts of Brisbane*

Bluey's family finally arrives at the usual camping area. Bandit parks next to his brother Radley's truck. However, they are greeted by two Heelers, a 14-year-old white and a 13-year-old purple.

"Did you forget the first rule of the millionaire?" The white Heel greets Bandit, Chilli, Bingo, and Bluey as they exit the car. Bandit and Chilli separate from the teenagers to greet the adults.

"The millionaire always gets up early. We know Muffin," Bingo says, approaching Muffin to hug her. In the middle of the hug, she says, "I literally had to get Bluey out of bed."

"And I almost had the idea of throwing a trophy in your face, Bingo," Bluey joked as she approached to hug Socks and whisper, "How are you, Socks?

"Good…for now", Socks says as she separates from her

"Why?" Bluey asks

"We had to deal with Rossi almost all morning, Bluey," Muffin says. "He wouldn't stop bothering us.”

"Yes, he is very loud," Socks comments.

Showing the 15 years of experience that the healers had as sisters. Bluey and Bingo looked at each other with narrowed eyes, then looked at Muffin and Socks. "We've been there," Bluey and Bingo say simultaneously.

Muffin and Socks bounce their wide-open gazes between Bluey and Bingo in confusion before Muffin says, "Hey, we weren't that bad…right, Socks?"

"Ahhh…" Socks is surprised but manages to humor Muffin: "No, we weren't. I was an angel when I was a puppy. Socks put on her cute puppy face as she spoke.

But Bluey and Bingo, still with narrowed eyes, began to shake their heads in disappointment. Slowly, Bluey finally changed her expression and asked, "Where's Rossi?"

"Ehh, he went with Aunt Frisky to…" Muffin answers, looking at the trees that surrounded her and then pointing in a direction “...To that direction”

Bluey looks where Muffin is pointing, and her eyebrows jump in surprise when she understands where her Aunt and Cousin could be. "Oh, Ok, I will say hello to them first. Bingo, if anyone asks about me, just tell them I'll be at the pink tree."

Bluey starts walking towards where Muffin said the two canines would be, but Bandit sees her along with Stripes and Radley and yells, "Bluey, are you going to say hello to the rest of the family?"

Bluey turns towards him but continues walking backward. "Yes, I will later. First, I will say hi to Aunt Frisky, Rossi, and the pink tree.” Bluey turns around again and starts walking faster toward the creek.

Bandit just sighed and lowered his head as he watched Bluey walk away from the camp. Bingo approached his father and said, "Leave her alone; she always has to go to the pink tree every time we go camping."

Thanks to Bingo's words, Bandit raises his head again and shrugs his shoulders quickly before greeting his nieces.

---

Even if the distance to the creek was short, Bluey could feel how her worries and responsibility faded little by little with each step she took on the grass, as if that forest were her second home, where she could feel peace.

Bluey finally reaches the stream and stands still to admire the size of the pink tree and thinks, “Wow… It’s grown bigger since I was last here.”

But Muffin was right; she saw two dogs admiring the pink tree: a light orange English Cocker Spaniel female and an orange and light blue Heeler male. It was her godmother and aunt Frisky, along with her son Rossi. The latter was nine years old and had very long orange hair for his age. He had his mother's ears, but the rest of his face and body had the shape and orange tones of his father, Radley. The big surprise for Rossi was his light blue tail.

Having recognized the two dogs, Bluey walks down to the stream and approaches the tree to greet them with a waving hand. “Hello, Aunt Frisky, hello, Rossi.”

"Bluey!" Rossi shouts with his tail wagging quickly as he runs towards Bluey

When Rossi was close enough, Bluey picked him up and spun around a few times, just like her old friend Mia did with her. After the spins, Bluey puts Rossi down and kneels before him.

"It's obvious that Frisky is your mother. Look at you," Bluey says as she shakes Rossi's hair with her hand. "I wish I had hair like yours."

Rossi adjusts his hair and says, “Nah, sometimes I prefer to have short hair like yours.”

“How about when we get back, we cut your hair?” Frisky challenges as she approaches behind Rossi

"No thanks, I sometimes said, not all the time," Rossi says as he runs his hand through his hair.

"Whatever, champ." Frisky gives up and rolls her eyes as she puts her arm on Rossi's shoulders.

With Frisky and Rossi dealt with. Bluey stands up and strolls towards the pink tree. Bluey places her hand on the tree's bark when she is already next to the tree.

"Nice tree, isn't it? " Bluey asks as she slowly runs her hand over the bark.

"Yes, it is very pretty," Rossi answers enthusiastically behind her.

"This tree brings back a lot of memories from when I was six years old," Bluey commented, turning to talk to Rossi.

"Really?"

"Yes… it reminds me of all the games and adventures I played with my family when I was a little girl… and it even reminds me of the day your mother met your father,"

"Really?" Rossi says in amazement

“Yes, your parents are the best babysitters I ever had,” Bluey says, looking at Frisky, who is smiling and waggin her tail slowly

"But why does a pink tree bring back so many memories for you?" Rossi asks.

"Because a very special friend planted it here," Bluey answers, turning her attention to Rossi.

"Wow… and who is this special friend," Rossi asks again.

"Oh…" Bluey didn't expect that question, but she managed to recover and talk about the dark blue Labrador: "...it was someone I met when I was 6; in addition to the tree, we built a house of sticks, and we managed to hunt a wild pig… Although that wild pig was my dad"

Bluey and Frisky laugh together, but Rossi is not done with the questions yet. "And do you know where it is?"

"Oh…" Now that question knocked out Bluey, who moved her eyes from side to side in a desperate attempt to say something "...ahh…I don't…I don't know."

Frisky's eyes widened when she noticed Bluey's sudden change, and she stopped the conversation." Come on, Rossi. It's time to return to the caravan."

An unnoticed Rossi only pays attention to his mother, "Ok, Mom."

Frisky puts his arm on Rossi's shoulder, and they turn to return to the family camp. "Are you coming Bluey?" Frisky asks, turning her head towards Bluey.

"Yes, I just need a moment, Ok,"

"Ok." Frisky looks ahead and starts walking with Oscar.

Bluey just stands there watching her Aunt and Cousin leave before turning her attention back to the big pink tree. And once again she runs her hand slowly over the rough bark.

"Rossi is right… where'd you go, Jean-Luc?" Bluey thinks as she gives one last pass to the tree bark before walking backward slowly and returning to camp.

---

The day and Mother Nature continued their course while the Heeler family enjoyed the warm Australian summer day. Bandit and Radley were supervising Stripes to make sure the grill didn't catch fire or, worse, that he served well-done meat. Sitting by the campfire were Chilli, Trixie, and Frisky, who were having conversations about series, and in the nearby trees were the teenagers' Muffin, Socks, and Rossi, who were listening to an improvised lesson on forest insects from Bingo

And paying absolutely no attention to the conversation was Bluey in her own chair. She only looked at the mother, who had to give her opinion on an episode or theory she had. Being the only Heeler on the border of adulthood and adolescence had its price.

Amidst the opinions, complaints, and theories, Bluey looked towards the tree line where the stream and the pink tree were. But she also started to think about the dark blue Labrador who planted it.

11 years. Eleven years have passed since Bluey met Jean-Luc, eleven years since Jean-Luc planted that tree that invaded Bluey's memory every so often. She may have gone on more adventures with their family and friends, seen her sister and her cousins grow up over time, cried, and enjoyed the five years of high school with her friends, but at the end of the day, she grew up these 11 years.

"Wait...I grew up..." Bluey thought with her eyes wide open as if she had discovered something "...So HE grew up too"

Every time Bluey thinks about Jean-Luc, she imagines him like the drawing she made when she was young. Sometimes, she succeeds in imagining him when he is 17 years old, but she never thinks about what he would really look like, and that makes her mind run in circles.

Bluey's mind raced until she came up with an idea.

"I need a new drawing of Jean-Luc.”

"Mom, I'm going to be in the caravan," Bluey says, standing up from the chair and walking towards the caravan.

Her mother only responds with a simple "Ok" before returning to the conversation with Trixie and Frisky.

Bluey enters the caravan and looks for her headphones, phone, her personal blue diary, and a blue pencil because she doesn't have a colored pencil. With the objects already found, Bluey lies down in the long leather chair in the caravan, and like a good, carefree teenager, she places her legs on the table to be more comfortable. Once in position, Bluey plugs the red headphones into her phone and finds a song to draw.

With the journal on her lap, a pencil in hand, and the headphones ready, Bluey presses play on the phone and starts to draw the dark blue Labrador.

Bluey hears the first notes of a piano at the same time as she places the first lines that will form the body of the Labrador, but only 10 seconds of the piano solo pass before the song's intro, and since Bluey is inspired, she decides to sing the intro at the same time as the singer.

"Where'd you go?"

"I miss you so."

"Seem like it's been forever."

"That you've been gone."

The song continued its course with the piano, drums, and rap verses while Bluey continued to draw Jean-Luc's outline. There were times when Bluey would bob her head slightly to the beat of the melody, but when the song ended, Bluey already had a picture of a Labrador in her journal, which she only knows is Jean-Luc.

Bluey continued to draw the details when she felt a slight tremor in the caravan. Bluey takes off her headphones and looks away from her journal to recognize who caused that tremor.

It was her sister Bingo, who was looking at her over the seat of the table, arms on the top of the seat. "Oh, how elegant."

"I'm not in the mood, Bingo." Bluey silences her sister and returns her gaze to the drawing. "And the cousins?"

"With the family," Bingo says as she takes her arms off the top of the seat. She sat down like her sister, but instead of placing her legs on the table, Bingo just placed her legs along the seat. Already comfortable, she looks at her sister to ask, "What are you doing, Bluey?"

"Drawing," Bluey says, still working on her drawing.

"Really?" Bingo says incredulously. "It's been years since you drew."

"I'm inspired, okay?" Bluey defends herself

"Whatever you say," Bingo said before looking towards the caravan's roof. "Hey, did you see what they're talking about in the main group?”

"No, why? " Bluey says she's still working on the drawing, but then she starts to think about why Bingo asked that and turns her head towards her sister. "Are they asking about me?”

"No…" Bingo says before looking at Bluey again,"...Indy and Rusty are still the parents of the group, Winston is still being annoying alongside the Terriers, Honey is still as active as a sloth, and Judo still wants to choke someone."

"Why, I'm not surprised," Bluey says before asking, "But besides that, what are they saying? I don't have a very good signal on my phone”

"A lot of things. The girls want to meet the new guy, but Mackenzie says not today because he's going to be busy showing him around town and on a different note. Lucky says you can help us because you know French"

Bluey snorts and says, "I appreciate Lucky's optimism but I'm not that good at speaking French."

"Really?... You're being hard on yourself," Bingo says in an attempt to give Bluey some confidence.

"No, really, Bingo!" Bluey protests as she looks at Bingo with her eyes wide open. “I know how to speak a little, but I can't speak French in front of a crowd like Dad did”

"Maybe you can practice French with the new guy," Bingo suggests

"I know; I think I will when I meet him," Bluey says, fixing her gaze on the drawing again.

Bluey focused again on the details of Jean-Luc's face until a doubt invaded her mind. "Bingo has been very close to Lila these past few months. She doesn't normally invite her to the movies. Especially if it's a movie as bad as the one we saw yesterday." Bluey thought and looked at Bingo, whose eyes were closed.

"Bingo," Bluey calls her.

"Yes?" Bingo answers, still with his eyes closed, trying to rest a little

"Why did you invite Lila to watch a movie with us?" Bluey asked, making Bingo open her eyes

"Well…" Bluey noticed that Bingo was rolling her eyes all around and put her hand behind her shoulder. "Lila is a big fan of ‘Guardians of the Planet,’ you just didn't know that before."

"Really? "Bluey says

"Yes!... She had been waiting for the third installment for a long time."

"How sad for her then…that the movie is so bad."

"No, She actually liked it. We were talking all night about that movie; in fact, she told me she had this idea for a fanfic about Grace and Maestro about…" Bingo started talking like a parrot while moving her hands. A smile appeared on her mouth, and she started to wag her tail under her body, Something that Bluey manages to hear

Bluey, seeing this, remembered what Bingo usually said about Lila. "When Lila is happy, I am happy too."

-...She, is, amazing," Bingo finishes talking with happiness while placing her two hands behind her head. She closes her eyes again while continuing to wag her tail

Bluey returns to the drawing and admires her progress. The outline of Jean-Luc's body is ready, and she has placed some details, like his eyes and nose. However, she still needed to finish the rest of Jean-Luc's face, and she ran out of inspiration. The time spent on the little table starts to hurt her legs.

"How about I go back to the tree to rest?" Bluey thought. She then got up from the large chair and placed her journal on the little table. As she did so, Bluey noticed a book with the cover of a black dog and a bone.

"What is this? " Bluey grabs the book and opens the first page. She notices a text that says, ‘DO NOT TOUCH, PROPERTY OF MUFFIN CUPCAKE HEELER.’ After reading, analyzing, and considering the risks of taking other people's property, Bluey thinks, "Ehh, I guess Muffin won't mind."

Bluey places the book on her chest with both arms crossed as she heads towards the caravan's exit, but when she sees her sister resting along the seat, She thinks, "I've heard enough."

---

Once outside the caravan, Bluey was about to go to the pink tree, but a loud conversation caught her attention. It was Socks and Muffin arguing with Rossi, but the volume was so loud that it managed to catch the attention of the adults.

"You can't take other people's things, Rossi!" Socks says with his sister at his side

"Why not?" Rossi asked while holding a bottle of shampoo

"Because that's mine, idiot!" Muffin shouted while pointing aggressively at Rossi

"Muffin language!" Trixie shouted while watching the situation with Chilli and Frisky from the campfire area

"I think I'm going to have to intervene," Frisky whispers to Chill, preparing to stand up.

"No, leave them; Let's see how this flows," Chili advises and made her sit down

"But you have to share with your cousins, right? Especially a shampoo as good as this one," Rossi says, showing the shampoo he took from her.

"Why don't you ask your mother to buy you one?" Muffin exclaims angrily while waving her hands at her head

"Because we already have one here," Oscar says, showing the shampoo again, making Socks grunt and roll her eyes.

Muffin puts her hands on her head, thinks for a few seconds, and says, "And why do you need a shampoo for girls? YOU ARE A BOY!"

"Because I am very famous in my school, and I need to look good," Rossi explains while running a hand through his hair.

"Pfff, You don't look good with long hair, Rossi." Socks shakes her head and crosses her arms.

"Tell that to my five girlfriends at school, ‘Single Sock.’

That sentence from Rossi caused several things at the camp. The mothers, Trixie Frisky and Chilli were perplexed with their mouths open; Bandit stood paralyzed with his eyes open and Beer in hand, Stripes moved his head to the side to spit out the beer, and Radley turned his back to the group to shake his fist and proudly whisper "That's my boy"

Socks turns her back to Rossi, places her hand over her eyes, and begins to wander while whispering to herself, "I can't take it anymore, I can't take it anymore, I can't take it anymore…"

Muffin notices her and manages to grab her by the shoulders. The Heeler turns to a proud Rossi of what he has done and says, "Look what you did, animal." And leading her sister by the shoulders, Muffin guides her to the trailer. In the process, she runs into Bluey, who has a hand over her mouth, holding back her laughter, but Muffin completely ignores her and enters the trailer with her sister.

Bluey manages to hold back her laughter and shouts to let know her family before walking towards the stream. “If you need me, I will be in the pink tree!”

When Bluey is already outside the camp, Muffin suddenly leaves the trailer, looks to both sides, and sees her cousin on the way to the stream. Muffin takes a few steps toward Bluey and shouts, "Bluey, that book is mine!

Already down in the stream, Bluey manages to hear her and turns half her body to answer.

"I know it's yours, Muffin. I just borrowed it," says Bluey, rolling her eyes. She then goes to the tree and sits with her legs crossed.

Already comfortable in the tree's trunk, She prepares to read Muffin's book.

Without responsibilities, without worries

But she doesn't notice the presence of someone very special on the other side of the small stream.

"Hello Bluey"

Notes:

Easter eggs and references…they are self-explanatory, except for 2. In the car scene Bingo said with his hands to Bluey "NICE,TRY"...Spoilers?

And the song that Bluey hums is Where'd You Go by Fort Minor. That song helped a lot in writing the caravan scene.

Chapter 4: Back to the beggining

A soft but annoying melody plays from Jean-Luc's phone. Lazily, lying face down on the bed, the Labrador opens his eyes and slowly moves his arms around to find his phone.

Finally, Jean-Luc reaches out to the small table next to his bed and finds his phone, giving it a look with his half-open eyes.

"ALARM"

"9:00 AM"

"Ughh," Jean-Luc said in annoyance as he turned off his alarm and dropped his phone.

"(If mom were here, I would be already on my way to school…you sloth)," the French-Canadian says to himself in French while still and face down with the white blanket over him.

"Ok, un, deux, TROIS." On the count of 3, Jean-Luc uses his hands to push himself up as if doing a push-up and rolls over, exposing part of his body.

Jean-Luc breathed heavily, but the maneuver worked. He was more awake than before, but something didn't seem right to him and though. "(Why is there hardly any light in here?)"

Jean-Luc removes the blanket entirely and uses his legs to push himself out of bed in one jump. Already standing, he goes to the window with the blinds down and pulls down the rope to raise the blinds.

When the blinds are all the way up, Jean-Luc squints at the daylight that aggressively enters the room. When his eyes adjusted, he opened them again wholly to see the landscape before him.

He could clearly see the highway that passed in front of him, a sea of trees with some palm trees in between, a golf course, and on the horizon was the naval base converted into a museum.

Two days before arriving in Brisbane*

Honolulu, Hawaii*

Airport's Hotel*

Jean-Luc stared at the landscape. He sighed and said out loud in French, "(This is beautiful, but damn whoever thought that having a stopover in Hawaii would be a good idea)."

The Labrador turns around and sees his hotel room. Between the brown walls, there is only a small television, a white bed that can accommodate two dogs, and a simple bathroom.

"(I better find something for breakfast)" Jean-Luc thinks and walks out of his room, tired.

A badly cramped Jean-Luc walks through the lonely hallways of the hotel while running his hands through his body in a poor attempt to arrange his fur. The Labrador's body and head were still waking up until the smell of breakfast led Jean-Luc to the cafeteria.

Even if it was late for breakfast, there were still a lot of teenage and adult canines lining up to grab scrambled eggs or toast, but Jean-Luc eventually settled on an apple by the salad bar.

With the apple in hand, Jean-Luc walked between the tables and the noise of conversations, looking for a place to eat. Still, every table was full of teenagers, some of them wearing a cap, scarf, or other item that proudly showed where they were from: Canada, United States, Mexico, Argentina, Brazil, Chile, among others. But in the end, Jean-Luc still couldn't find a place to sit.

Jean-Luc stands in the middle of the tables and thinks,"(I'd better go to the pool; there shouldn't be too many dogs there)."

Jean-Luc steps out of the hotel's controlled environment into the Hawaiian warmth of the pool. Under normal circumstances, it is a good-sized pool with plenty of folding plastic chairs, but it is a small pool for the army of students on their way to Asia and Oceania. Jean-Luc was lucky, as there weren't too many canines in the area at the moment.

Jean-Luc picks a random folding chair and leans back to take a bite of the apple with his eyes closed, but a familiar female voice to his left interrupts him.

"And here, we can see Jean-Luc eating an apple, proving how much of an asshole he is."

Jean-Luc makes a face of disgust before opening his eyes and looking at where that voice is coming from. It was the Canadian Eskimo Juneau, his old elementary school teacher, who is now 36 years old and has shorter fur.

Seeing who it was, Jean-Luc relaxed. After finishing chewing, he answered in English, "Just because you're the coordinator doesn't mean you have to cut your fur."

Juneau rolls his eyes and sits on the folding chair next to Jean-Luc. "That's what you think. I feel ten years younger with the short fur."

Jean-Luc snorts and says jokingly, "It's not noticeable; you're still the old teacher I know."

Now Juneau had his eyes half-closed at Jean-Luc's answer. "You spent a lot of time with my little sister, didn't you?"

"Yep, "Jean-Luc answers and then points at Juneau with his apple. "And I don't regret it."

Jean-Luc bites his apple as Juneau shakes her head in disappointment and leans back into the folding chair. Already comfortable, she asks, "So, Jean-Luc…what are you planning to do when you get to Brisbane?"

Jean-Luc answers almost immediately, "Sleep? My flight to Brisbane arrives almost at midnight."

"I mean… You know what I mean?" Juneau rephrases the question again.

Jean-Luc takes a second to answer, "... I plan to go to the same place where I met the blue Heeler," And takes another bite of the apple.

Jean-Luc's answer leaves Juneau with a confused face, who looks at every corner of the place in search of meaning to what Jean-Luc say "Ehhhhh What?"

Jean-Luc finishes chewing, sits on the folding chair, and looks at her. "The blue girl… Camp… When I was a 6-year-old boy."

Juneau puts her fingers in her eyes and says." Yes, I know what you're talking about… but really?"

"(What?)" Jean-Luc reacts confused

"Honey…" Juneau begins to speak, removing his fingers from her eyes and changing her tone of voice to make it seem as if Jean-Luc was her student again. "That was 11 years ago… you're clinging to a fairy tale."

"I know," Jean-Luc says, lowering his head a little but raising it and saying, "but I have a plan."

Juneau sighs and says, "Come on, talk; I'm listening."

"When I met this girl at camp, I planted a tree… j'espère (I hope)," Jean-Luc whispers the last word, "so even if she's not there. I can use the tree to contact her."

"Ohh… Why don't you use social media to find her?"

"Because she's not the only one called "Bluey" on this planet. It's hard to find someone on social media anyway," Jean-Luc answers, narrowing his eyes.

"Ok," Juneau says as she moves her lips and looks awkwardly around until she stands up from her folding chair. "You know what… You do your thing; in my years as an elementary school teacher, I learned that sometimes you need to hit a wall to learn a thing or two."

"Oh… Thanks for the encouraging tip," Jean-Luc says optimistically as he raises his apple like a wine glass.

"It's not to encourage you (Fool); you're going to get out of this badly." Juneau walks back inside the hotel but stops and looks at Jean-Luc. "I'm going to go to the Pearl Harbor museum later with some guys; I'll save you a spot just in case."

Jean-Luc just thinks for a few seconds before answering, "d'accord (Okay)," and then leans back in the chair to continue eating his apple in peace.

---

Present*

Border-collie house*

Jean-Luc opens his eyes without problems and looks for a few seconds at the white ceiling illuminated by the light that manages to filter through the blinds before removing the white blanket from his torso and sitting on his bed.

Once up, the Labrador forms a clumsy smile and murmurs, "Hellooooo Brisbane," He then stretches out his arms, removes the blanket completely, and gets out of bed.

Jean-Luc continues to stretch his arms, legs, and head. He looks for his suitcase and takes out a toothbrush and comb for his fur. Already awake to start the day, Jean-Luc comes out of his room to see in front of him the room of Mackenzie "Mack" Border-collie with the sign "Available" on the door handle. This causes the Labrador to think in French with curiosity "(If he is available… Can I enter even if he is asleep?)"

That silly question could be answered another day since Jean-Luc just went to the bathroom. He washes his face with cold water, brushes his teeth, and arranges his fur. After a few minutes, Jean-Luc comes out of the bathroom as well as new, but the aroma of breakfast reaches Jean-Luc's nose, so he decides to go down to the kitchen.

As Jean-Luc descended the stairs, he heard two adults talking. Fozzie and Mel had already gotten up, and the Labrador managed to hear Fozzie say, "Come on, honey. It'll be fun."

Jean-Luc finishes going down the stairs just in time for Mel to say, "I told you, Fozzie, I'll only go if Chilli and Janelle go too."

Jean-Juc approaches the Border Collie couple. Fozzie is sitting at the table with a newspaper in his hands, and Mel is preparing breakfast with a yellow apron on. "Bonjour Mel, Bonjour Fozzie."

The two canines look at Jean-Luc, but Mel is the first to respond, "Oh, G'day Jan-Luke."

Jean-Luc just thought, "(Someone save me)." One of these days, he will have to sit with her.

Mel returns to what she is cooking while Jean-Luc walks up to Fozzie and greets him with his fists before sitting on one of the wooden chairs. When Jean-Luc sits down, Fozzie asks, "Well, we have the whole day free, so what do you want to do today?"

"Like I said yesterday," Jean-Luc starts talking, "I want to explore Brisbane, but first…I want to visit this place I went to when I was a kid."

"So…where is it?" Mel asked with a frying pan in her hand.

"Uhh, I don't know, but it's on my phone," Jean-Luc says with a finger up, indicating to give him some time.

Jean-Luc quickly gets up from his chair and goes to his room to pick up the phone he had left on the floor the night before. After a minute, he returns to the kitchen while using his phone.

"It's…" Jean-Luc walks over to Mel to show what was on the phone. "This place"

Mel takes Jean-Luc's phone, but she shakes her head back with a confused grimace. "But…That's 2 hours from here,"

Jean-Luc just stands there and says, "Yes?"

Out of nowhere, Fozzie says, "Well…for some reason, we asked for the day off, right?"

"Yeah…You're right," Mel finally gives in. "Well, an adventure out of town would do us good."

"Hooray!" Jean-Luc celebrates with his arms open, but the sound of footsteps makes Jean-Luc retract them

Suddenly, the sounds came from the stairs until a familiar figure finished going down them. "Who was the one running through the house?" Says a confused Mackenzie

"Oh…I'm sorry, Mack," says Jean-Luc shamefully.

"It's okay, Luke," says Mackenzie, approaching Jean-Luc. "I had to get out of that bed anyway."

"G'day, son. Thank goodness you got up," says Mel, taking off her apron. "Breakfast is ready."

"Hooray," says Mackenzie, smiling and rubbing her hands together excitedly before taking his place at the table with Jean-Luc.

Mel brings the four plates and a jug of orange juice to the table. Fozzie was sitting with his back to the patio, Jean-Luc was on his right, his son Mackenzie on his left, and Mel was going to sit with his back to the living room. The Labrador smiles when Mel places Jean-Luc's plate in front of him.

"Really?" says Jean-Luc, seeing his plate. "Pancakes with eggs and bacon?"

"And…" Mel says, showing a bottle with a maple leaf logo from behind her back. "Maple syrup"

"Ohhhhh," Jean-Luc leans back in his chair and starts wagging his tail while Mel places the bottle in front of him. "Alice wasn't joking. You guys were prepared."

"I know…" Mel says as she sits in her chair. "I promised Alice that we'd take care of you."

"And that's what we'll do, "Fozzie says before putting a piece of pancake in his mouth with his fork.

Mel looks at his son, and Jean-Luc notices and looks at him, too. Mackenzie notices the look between them and even notices how her mother rolls her eyes at Jean-Luc and then continues looking at him.

Finally, Mackenzie gets the message, "I'll take care of you at school, Luke; you can trust me," and puts a piece of scrambled egg into his mouth.

After dealing with Mackenzie, Mel looks at Jean-Luc, places her hand on his shoulder, and says, "Enjoy it, sweetie," before picking a fork and taking a piece of scrambled eggs to her mouth.

Jean-Luc excitedly starts eating his breakfast with the Border Collie family. In the next few minutes, only the sounds of metallic utensils can be heard, but it doesn't take long for the family to start talking.

"Hey Mack…" Fozzie begins,"...How did it go with your friends playing video games?"

"Oh… it went… Well…" Mackenzie barely managed to say; even Jean-Luc could notice how the question caught him by surprise. "We had our moments."

"Hey, what about you, Jak-Luc… Do you like to play video games?" Fozzie asks, looking at Jean-Luc.

"Ehh… It depends; I'm not very good, honestly," Says Jean-Luc while putting more maple syrup on his pancakes

"Me neither, but I try," Says Mackenzie, and then laughs in a friendly way.

"You should play with them, Jan-Luke," Says Mel after drinking some juice. "Mackenzie has very good friends."

"Yeah…" Says Fozzie, turning to Mel. "Also, did you hear that Chilli and her daughters gifted a console to Bandit?"

"Oh, I remember," says Mackenzie, pointing at his father with his fork. "It was not just a console; it was a console with virtual reality. Bingo told me that was the first thing Bandit tried with a horror game and that it was the funniest thing she had ever seen in her life."

While Jean-Luc was drinking juice, he raised an eyebrow; confused, he put down his cup and said, "Her?"

"Bingo?" Mackenzie says suddenly, looking at Jean-Luc, but then he understands the Labrador's confusion. "Yes, I know. Many at school thought she was a Boy, but she is a good friend… You really should meet her."

"And what about your crush, eh Romeo?" Fozzie says jokingly, "You can't mention one without mentioning the other."

"Ehhhhhhhhh." Mackenzie looks around, blushing, not knowing what to say, until he hits the table and says quickly, "YouknowwhatWherearewegoingtogotodayTodayisaperfectdaytogoout."

The three canines looked at each other confused, but Jean-Luc understood enough to take his phone out of his hip and show him the same thing he showed Mel, "We'll go to this place first."

Mackenzie shakes his head, and his face returns to black and white before grabbing the phone and looking at the location. "Hey... huh... isn't this... isn't this the place where Rusty camps with his family?"

"I think so," Mel says, standing up from the table with the empty plate in her hand. "We should leave as soon as possible because it's far away, and I don't see you guys finishing."

Mel was right. Jean-Luc, Mackenzie, and Fozzie still had pancake and egg leftovers on their plates. The three canines looked at each other quickly and began to devour the rest of the food.

Meanwhile, Mel leaves her plate in the sink. Taking advantage of the situation, she turns around and says, "Since we are all gathered here, let's go over the house rules."

Jean-Luc's body tenses, and he looks at Mel just as she continues to speak

Over the next 10 minutes, Mel goes over the house rules with Jean-Luc and Mackenzie; some rules include

"Curfew at 9 pm"

"Take turns using the washing machine."

"Helping out with household chores."

"No French in the house."

"Family activities on the weekends

"No alcohol in the house" (Even if Jean-Luc mentioned that he doesn't drink beer)

"And lastly…" Mel continues speaking, "A reminder from Alice to Jan-Luke, No romantic relationships while in Brisbane."

This makes Jean-Luc frown. He doesn't fully understand why he reacts like that to the rule, as if a part of him doesn't agree. Luckily for him, Mel notices his reaction and continues.

"Well…" Mel forms a pout with her mouth and looks down before continuing."...It depends if it's "casual" or something super serious. But this rule, it's from Alice's personal experience. She wants you focused on school, not getting a wife.

Followed by a small laugh from Fozzie, Jean-Luc just answers, "Ok," but a part of him doesn't consider the rule as a "rule" but as a "warning" from Alice.

After the family meeting and putting everything away after breakfast, the Border-collies began to prepare to leave. Mel was getting ready in the bathroom mirror, Fozzie was outside getting the truck ready, Mackenzie was on his phone in his room, and Jean-Luc was searching for something in his backpack.

After a few seconds of searching, Jean-Luc pulls out a journal, a pen, and a small roll of tape from his backpack. The Labrador tears a sheet of paper from his journal and kneels on the floor with the pen in his hand, ready to write.

"(Ok, boy)" thinks in French Jean-Luc "(you have waited for this moment for a long time…May the writing classes pay off)"

With precision and care, Jean-Luc begins to write slowly on the sheet of paper to ensure it looks good. When he is finished, he reads to himself,"'Hi Bluey, I am Jean-Luc, your childhood friend. I will be in Brisbane for a year and I would like to see you again. Call me or text me at this number…' That would work."

After writing the note, Jean-Luc folds the paper several times until it is small enough to go unnoticed. But suddenly, Jean-Luc hears someone knocking on the door. The Labrador puts the letter and the tape where his phone is on his hip and says, "You can come in!

The door opens, and Mackenzie peeks his head into the room. "Come on, Luke, time to go."

Jean-Luc just responds with an "Ok" before standing up and leaving his room.

---

1 hour later, leaving Brisbane*

Using the location Jean-Luc gave Fozzie, the family truck cruised down the highway quietly. Fozzie and Mel were chatting in the front seats, Jean-Luc was looking out at the scenery, taking pictures for his family and friends back home, but the tranquility stopped when Mackenzie sighed and put his phone back on his hip

Mel is the first to respond. She turns her head to look at Mackenzie and asks, "Everything okay, son?"

"Everything is okay…" Mackenzie says and then lets his head fall back "...Damn, I didn't know all my friends were this excited about Luke."

"Really?" Jean-Luc says, turning his head towards Mackenzie and waving his hand like a fan. "Wow, I didn't know I was so famous here hahaha."

The teenagers laugh lightly but are interrupted by Mel, who says, embarrassed, "Well… I think we had something to do with this."

"Yeah…" Fozzie starts talking and jokes, "...I think we told half of Brisbane that you were coming."

"I can tell Dad," Mackenzie says. "At least I told them we'd be busy in the city today, but I don't know when they're going to bother me again."

"I think… I understand why you want to take your time, Mack," Jean-Luc says, looking at Mackenzie.

"You see Luke?" Mackenzie says, looking back at Jean-Luc, "All my friends are crazy, but…" Mackenzie's voice slows down and lowers his tone and his head."...they're my friends; I grew up with them…And I know they have my back at school, and I have them too…even if we're not on the same page, we still end the day laughing or sharing ice cream."

"Sounds like a good group of friends," Jean-Luc says with empathy.

"Yes, they are," Mackenzie says, looking briefly at Jean-Luc before looking out the window.

Jean-Luc goes back to what he was doing with his phone in his hand. For a few moments, the only thing that could be heard in the vehicle was the sound of the engine and the radio playing the song of the moment, but Mel lowered the volume and then said, "Jan-Luke, can you explain to me... us why we are going to the forest first?"

Jean-Luc stops looking at the window to look at Mel and says, "Oh, yeah, right… That was where I went camping with my family when I was a kid."

"But… why is it so special to you?"

Jean-Luc stays still in his seat as if his soul disconnected from his body. Jean-Luc couldn't deny the way the Border-collies had treated him, but he didn't feel confident enough to talk about Bluey and his plan... Considering the mockery he suffered for believing in a fairy tale

Jean-Luc stood there thinking until he took out the little letter he was going to leave in the tree for Bluey. The Labrador's mind was working overtime to create something to talk about, but there was nothing. It was then that Jean-Luc was preparing to tell the truth until

The Tree!

"I planted a tree before I left," Jean-Luc lies one minute after Mel asks the question. "I want to visit it and see how much it's grown."

Mel barely mumbles, "Huh," but returns to his usual polite self and says, "Oh, that sounds interesting."

Not knowing any better, Jean-Luc continues the lie by saying, "Yeah, I've always wondered what happened to it."

Mel doesn't answer, so Jean-Luc relaxes, tucks the paper back into his hip, and looks out the window.

In the front seats, Mel faked a frown and looked at her husband, who looked at her with one eye half-closed…the two Border-Collies were on the same page…something wasn't adding up with Jean-Luc.

In the back seats, Mackenzie listened to the exchange. Even though he could sense that Jean-Luc was acting weirdly, he decided to ignore it.

And barely listening to the song of the moment… The pickup continued its way.

---

Campground outside Brisbane*

After A 1 1/2 hour drive, the Border-Collie collies and Jean-Luc arrive at the outskirts of the woods where the campground is. Jean-Luc's tail was wagging slowly as he looked out the window until Fozzie finally turned into the campground parking and drove to where there were three more cars.

After stopping, Jean-Luc is the first to get out of the truck, but when his feet touch the ground, he takes a moment to look down and move his feet around to feel the ground beneath him. When he finished, the Labrador looked back at the horizon of trees that make up the forest and took a big breath of air. As Jean-Luc lets the air out through his nose, he says in French,"(I'm here)."

But Jean-Luc's moment is interrupted by an annoyed voice saying, "DAMMIT." Quickly, Jean-Luc moves to the other side of the truck to see Fozzie and Mel inspecting the right front tire

It was hard to notice, but the tire was losing air at a slow pace. The feeling of guilt begins to invade Jean-Luc, who barely reacts "I...I didn't know...that this"

Mackenzie, who has already gotten out of the car, notices Jean-Luc. The Border Collie walks towards him, grabs him by the shoulders, and says, "Don't worry about us; this happens a lot. Go to the camp; we will catch up with you."

Jean-Luc, still sad, nods his head with determination and then turns towards the forest and begins to walk.

---

As he continued walking through the dirt and grass between the trees, Jean-Luc's memories began coming to him.

"ça ressemble à un bon endroit pour camper"

"je suis d'accord avec toi"

"Tu es devenu fou"

Jean-Luc lets out a small laugh. That was his best friend Louis's reaction when he first told him his plan to be an exchange student, but without realizing it, he had arrived at the place.

There was Jean-Luc, standing and incredulous about where he was. He had arrived at the place where he and his family had camped 11 years ago. Jean-Luc slowly walks around the area and begins to point.

"(There was the tent)," Jean-Luc says before pointing to another area "(there was a table)" and points to another area "(there was the grill)."

He stops pointing and looks towards where the stream is "(And there is…)." Jean-Luc thinks before starting to walk

"Maman, je peux aller jouer?"

"oui bien sûr fils"

"attention aux serpents Jean-Luc"

Jean-Luc still remembers asking his mother for permission to play and his father's warning about snakes. He might have been careless walking like that in the forest. He was in Australia, home of the most dangerous animals on the planet. But without realizing it, he came across something that transported them 11 years back.

"(It can't be...)" thinks Jean-Luc as he reacts to what is before him…It's the little house of sticks he built with Bluey.

Jean-Luc approaches the almost intact little house and thinks, "(Huh, it should be a builder...but it seems that someone...was maintaining it)

Jean-Luc looks ahead and sees a large pink tree. Curious, the Labrador walks slowly towards the tree until his heart stops when he reaches the edge of the tree line and the stream.

Jean-Luc looked carefully, curiously, and lovingly at the stream, the same stream where he met Bluey, but there was a big exception.

A large pink tree on the other side of the small stream

"(That must be... The tree I left behind)," thinks Jean-Luc, amazed. But without wanting to, he walks slowly to leave the tree line and approaches the pink tree. But as he walks, memories of the past keep invading his head.

"You're living in a fairy tale."

"Let it go, Jean-Luc."

"You'll never find her."

"Stop being a child. Grow up already."

"Really, Jean-Luc?"

"Sometimes you need to hit a wall to learn a thing or two."

Jean-Luc stops and pulls out the paper with the note for Bluey. He takes a good look at it and squeezes it with determination, but when he looks back at the tree, Jean-Luc's body goes cold when he sees a blue Heeler coming down towards the tree.

"Bluey, that book is mine!" Jean-Luc could hear a voice on the other side of the treeline

"I know it's yours, Muffin; I just borrowed it," Bluey says, answering the voice and sitting beside the pink tree with her legs crossed.

Jean-Luc froze. For some reason, Bluey didn't notice he was there

"I will always be proud of you, Jean-Luc."

"You will come out of this with a smile. You always do that."

"No one gave you this. You earned it."

"I hope you find what you are looking for in Brisbane."

"Who knows, the world is a magical place."

"(Mom is right, the world is a magical place)"

Thought Jean-Luc, and after swallowing and putting the note on his hip, the Labrador raised his hand, smiled, and said

"Hello Bluey"

Notes:

Las References

When Juneau calls Jean-Luc an asshole for eating an apple: Apples (or some other food) are used in the film world to show disinterest or superiority, to show the audience that they are assholes… You can tell I watched videos of "Everything wrong with…" when I wrote that scene

Chapter 5: A magical world part 1

"Don't worry, honey. This wheel will hold up. Oh, don't worry, son, this will hold up"

Mackenzie says, shamelessly imitating his father's voice as he angrily takes the spare wheel out of the open trunk.

"IT DIDN'T EVEN LAST A WEEK!" Mackenzie screams angrily as he bounces the wheel once

"HEY!…" Fozzie exclaimed on his kneels in an attempt to silence his son while he tried to remove the last lug nut from the wheel with the lug wrench. "...I didn't know Jack-luc would send us to the fifth pine. Now, can you shut up for 5 seconds and help me here?"

"Ugh" Mackenzie exclaims, letting his head fall back before putting the wheel leaning against the vehicle.

Mackenzie grabs the lug wrench with his father, and the latter counts "3,2,1 NOW" using all their strength. The two Border Collies try to move the lug wrench, but the nut doesn't move, and they give up. The two Border Collies release the wrench to catch their breath through their mouths.

"Weren't you going to buy…" Mackenzie manages to speak with his hands on his knees but continues to catch his breath before continuing, "One of those pit guns that are used in the Surfers Paradise race."

"I know I said that," Fozzie says, catching his breath and turning his attention to his wife. "Honey, help us here."

The brown Border Collie was leaning on her back on the vehicle's hood while she was playing with the four lug nuts of the wheel with her fingers and a lost look at her dirty hands… As if she was thinking about something

Mackenzie notices his mother is lost in the lug nuts and says, "Mom, I don't want to spend the night here; please help us."

Mackenzie catches her mother's attention, opens her eyes, and reacts, "Eh, Oh yeah, I'm coming."

Mel drops the nuts on the ground and positions herself to push the wrench. The two male Border Collies position themselves so that they only have to pull the wrench.

"Ok, everyone ready?" Fozzie alerts, Mackenzie and Mel nod their heads." Ok…1,2,3 GO!"

With the combined force of 3 canines, the wrench moves slowly with difficulty until, magically, the nut comes loose, causing Mel to shoot toward Fozzie and Mackenzie. In a true comical scene, Mel ends up on top of the two Border-Collies. The family grunts and moans in pain until Mel is the first to speak sarcastically with one arm raised. "Family time, woohoo"

Mel manages to stand up with difficulty before Mackenzie and Fozzie. She brushes the dirt off her fur with her hands and says, "Your father and I can take care of the rest; you go find Jan-Luke. I don't want to deal with Alice if he gets lost in the woods."

Mackenzie stands up, does the same as his mother, and then asks, confused, "Who is Alice anyway?"

Mel slaps her face with her palm and says, annoyed "That doesn't matter; just look for him."

Mackenzie rolled his eyes in annoyance, saying, "Whatever, Mom," and started walking in the same direction as Jean-Luc did moments ago.

As Mackenzie walked away, Fozzie got on his knees again to work on the wheel, but Mel decided to look at the three nearby cars until a car looked very familiar to her.

" Hey…" Mel pats her husband on the back while looking at the red SUV."... Are those?"

---

"Hello Bluey"

Bluey's eyes widened upon hearing her name, and she turned her head in the direction of the voice. And it was there that her gaze connected with a familiar face.

There was Jean-Luc…standing on the other side of the small stream, greeting her with a smile and his tail wagging.

Bluey gives a soft smile, and her tail starts to wag despite the lack of room between the tree bark and her back. After what seemed like an eternity, Bluey was the first to speak softly.

"Mom was right…"

Jean-Luc just stands there and answers, "…About what?"

While keeping her gaze on Jean-Luc, Bluey closes Muffin's book and carefully places it next to the tree.

And in the blink of an eye,

"JEAN-LUC!"

Jean-Luc opens his eyes in surprise when he sees a ball of blue fur shoot out toward him. Instinctively, he opens his arms, waiting for the impact.

Bluey launches herself toward Jean-Luc, enveloping him in a strong hug. The Labrador accepts with the same force, however, due to the inertia Bluey is carrying. Jean-Luc takes a few steps back and unintentionally lifts Bluey with the exact inertia for a few seconds before bringing her back to earth.

The two canines stayed hugged, feeling each other's fur with their tails wagging at full speed; Bluey kept burying her head more and more in Jean-Luc's shoulder while Jean-Luc caressed the soft fur on Bluey's back with his right hand.

After what seemed like an eternity, Bluey took her head off Jean-Luc's shoulder to look him straight in the eyes and said with a giant smile.

"You're back, really you're back, Jean-Luc."

Jean-Luc fixes his gaze on Bluey's eyes, whose joy manages to spread to the Labrador, who accidentally answers in French with a smile, "Mieux vaut tard que jamais"

Bluey laughs lightly, closing his eyes momentarily, and translates, " Yes…better late than never."

"Wait, do you speak French?" Jean-Luc asks, surprised, with his eyes wide open after somehow composing himself to speak English again

Bluey tilts his head from side to side until she answers, "You're not the only one who studied all these years."

"hehehe…I missed you, Bluey."

"Tu m'as manqué Jean-Luc" Bluey says in French as the canines tilt their heads to touch their foreheads to enjoy the moment a little longer.

---

"LUKE!"

"LUKE!"

"Luke, where are you?"

---

Bluey finally separates her forehead from Jean-Luc's and positions herself next to him to look at the pink tree. Jean-Luc stares speechlessly at the pink leaves.

"So…this is what I planted?" Jean-Luc asks, tilting his head to the side where Bluey is

Bluey nods and says, "Qui, the same tree."

"Danmit," Jean-Luc says, lowering his head.

"Huh, What's wrong? " Bluey looks at him, confused and worried about his reaction.

Jean-Luc notices Bluey's reaction and continues talking. "I remember I said that this tree would give us food… and look," says Jean-Luc jokingly while pointing at the fruitless tree with his two arms extended.

"Ah, hahaha," Bluey laughs before playing along with Jean-Luc. "At least we have the wild pig that we hunted."

"Bluey, that was a long time ago," Says Jean-Luc, sarcastically looking at Bluey. "There should only be bones and dust left"

"Let's hunt another one then," Says Bluey, shrugging her shoulders and causing the two canines to share a few laughs.

---

"LUKE"

"JAN-LUKE"

"Damn, Luke, where did you get yourself into"

---

After laughing, Bluey is the first to speak, "How have you been, Jean-Luc?"

Jean-Luc sighed after laughing. "Well, freezing myself in Canada."

Jean-Luc expected Bluey to laugh, but Bluey instead said, surprised, "Canada? Dont they speak English there?"

"In Quebec, we speak French…huh, I told my friend the same thing yesterday at the airport"

"Friend? So you're not with your family," Bluey asks worriedly.

"No, but I'm going to stay with a family in Brisbane this school year," Jean-Luc explains with a smile.

"For real life!" Bluey exclaims excitedly.

Jean-Luc nods happily and explains, "Yes, I came as an exchange student."

"Wow" Bluey reacts, amazed, and then continues, "It must have been hard for you to be one of them."

"Yes it was…" Jean-Luc says, nodding "…I hate math."

Bluey let out a giggle, and Jean-Luc couldn't help but smile. Bluey finally speaks after laughing," Who doesn't hate them, but…"

Jean-Luc changes his expression to one of curiosity, waiting for Bluey's question.

"Why did you come to the forest today?" Bluey asks, then places her hands on her hips to lean towards Jean-Luc and jokes, "Were you stalking me?"

Surprised, Jean-Luc raises his hands to shake them in defense. "Nononono! I swear I didn't know you were going to be here today. In fact, I came to this place to leave this…"

Jean-Luc pulls a paper note from his hip and shows it to Bluey. She curiously grabs and opens the note to read it while Jean-Luc blushes and says, "I knew there was a chance you wouldn't be here today, so I prepared that note for you."

Bluey's eyes move from side to side with the note until she looks at Jean-Luc for a second. Then, she looks at the note again and folds it to put it on her hip. Out of nowhere, Bluey hugs Jean-Luc again, and on his shoulders, she says in French, "Vous êtes génial Jean-Luc."

Upon hearing that, Jean-Luc puts his arms around Bluey to accept the hug and begins to caress Bluey's back again.

The two canines continued hugging without giving the slightest importance to what was happening around them. Unbeknownst to them, they had been waiting for each other's presence for over ten years, and neither of them wanted to move on. They just stayed at that point in time and space to enjoy the moment forever in a magical world.

Until…

"BLUEY!?"

The two canines open their eyes in surprise, break the hug, and look toward where the voice came from

It was Mackenzie. Looking in amazement and confusion at the scene from the tree line, "Bluey, what are you doing here?"

"I camp here," says Bluey, pointing to the ground below her and then pointing at him. "What are YOU doing here!?"

Jean-Luc puts a hand on Bluey's shoulder and asks, "Do you know him?"

"Eh?" Mackenzie reacts, confused with a raised eyebrow, "Do you know each other?"

Bluey takes the lead and takes a few steps toward Mackenzie. "Yes, I do." The Heeler turns to Jean-Luc and continues, "I met him when I went camping 11 years ago."

"Qui," now Jean-Luc takes a few steps to stand beside Bluey. "We played for three days. We built a house of sticks over there."

"We planted that tree," says Bluey, pointing to the tree behind her

"And we hunted a wild pig together," Bluey and Jean-Luc say at the same time with excitement and with their tails wagging

…

Suddenly, their tails stop moving, and they look at each other from the corner of their eyes. Bluey and Jean-Luc turn to each other and point to the rhythm of…

"JINX, JINX, JINX, JINX, JINX"

Bluey and Jean-Luc stop saying "jinx," but they still point at each other until the two canines burst out laughing. Bluey held her stomach with both of her arms while Jean-Luc placed both of his hands on his knees and slapped one of his knees in laughter.

Mackenzie watched the silly scene before him with exasperation and a twitch in his right eye until he smacked his palm against his forehead. "And I'm lucky enough to study with these two…"

Mackenzie's sentence causes Bluey and Jean-Luc to stop laughing and widen their eyes. The two canines begin to bounce their gazes between Mackenzie and the canine in front of them as if they are putting the puzzle pieces together until Bluey speaks first.

"That means… You're the 'Frenchman' everyone was talking about," Bluey points at Jean-Luc and says, stunned, with her hand bouncing.

"French?" Jean-Luc shakes his head back in confusion. "I'm French Canadian, not French, big diff-"

Bluey interrupts Jean-Luc grabbing him by his shoulders, and says," You're the exchange student going to my school."

"Which means…" Jean-Luc says, knowing full well what it means

"WE'RE GOING TO STUDY TOGETHER," says Bluey excitedly, who hugs Jean-Luc. He happily accepts the hug, and they begin to jump up and down in excitement while making happy sounds.

Mackenzie slowly moves his hand away from his face until his hand stops blocking his vision, and he sees the scene that sank his heart.

Between the little jumps that Bluey and Jean-Luc were making, Mackenzie could see in slow motion the happiness the two canines expressed as she tightly and lovingly hugged Jean-Luc with her eyes closed. Mackenzie couldn't explain what he was feeling easily...in fact, he couldn't explain it at all; the only thing his feelings were telling the Border Collie was

"This isn't right."

Mackenzie was about to say something to the couple, but a female voice interrupted him first.

"BLUEY, LUNCHTIME"

Bluey and Jean-Luc look in the direction of the voice and stop hugging. The blue Heeler answers by placing a palm next to her mouth. "I'M COMING MOM"

Bluey excitedly and quickly looks for the book she was reading next to the tree, places it on her chest with one arm and approaches the Labrador. "Come on, Jean-Luc"

The Blue Heeler grabs Jean-Luc's hand to guide him as she did before. But when she starts to walk, something makes her stop dead, so she looks at Jean-Luc confused.

Jean-Luc just stood there looking at the union of his hand with Bluey's. He looked at her and said, "Bluey, I can understand you. You don't need to take me by the hand."

"Oh," Bluey let go of Jean-Luc's hand and placed her free hand on her chest to hold the book. "Well…Follow me"

Jean-Luc listens to her and starts walking behind her, but Mackenzie stands still for a few more seconds."Oh boy," Mackenzie says to himself before gathering strength and walking towards Bluey's camp.

---

Mackenzie manages to catch up with Bluey and Jean-Luc, and they walk together until they can see Bluey's family's camp.

As the three canines approached the caravan. Bluey could see Stripe at the grill with Radley and her mother, preparing the salad with a bowl next to the table. She could also see Muffin and Socks talking to Trixie, Frisky, and Rossi at the caravan's entrance. Even Bluey could see that Socks' eyes had a reddish tint.

Muffin looks away from Frisky, who is talking, and fixes her gaze on Bluey... her book more specifically. Muffin starts walking through Frisky and Rossi to go for Bluey, completely ignoring the presence of Mackenzie and Jean-Luc; when she is close enough, she snatches the book from Bluey's arms to the sound of "MINE!"

With the book in her possession, Muffin turns around and returns to the trailer with a stunned Bluey behind her, who only reacts with open arms. "You're welcome!?"

Muffin doesn't waste time and climbs straight into the trailer. Socks glares at Rossi with her red eyes before following his sister inside. With her two daughters in the trailer, Trixie looks at Frisky and then shakes her head in disappointment before climbing into the trailer and closing the door behind her.

After the trailer door is closed, Frisky sighs and slumps her shoulders before raising her index finger and saying in a menacing voice low enough for her son to hear, "We're not done yet, Rossi Almond Heeler."

With his eyes wide open in fear upon hearing his full name, Rossi gulps and says in fear, "Yes, Mom."

"What happened here?" Bluey asks, coming up behind Frisky and Rossi

Frisky and Rossi turn to the three canines. Rossi's tail starts to wag when he sees Mackenzie. "Oh, hey, Mack, hey…"

But he and Frisky are surprised to see the dark blue Labrador next to Bluey and Mackenzie. Frisky points at Jean-Luc and asks, "Bluey, who is he?"

"Oh, that's Jean-Luc." Bluey puts her arm around Jean-Luc to bring him closer to her. "He's going to stay with Mackenzie while he goes to my school."

"Oh, so you're the exchange student your dad mentioned?" Frisky asks Mackenzie, making him slap himself with the palm of his hand.

"Your dad wasn't joking about the 'Half of Brisbane' thing." Jean-Luc says, looking at Mackenzie

"You have no idea, Jean-Luc," Bluey says, removing her arm from Jean-Luc's shoulders. "What happened to Socks? I Noticed she has red eyes"

Frisky looks at Rossi out of the corner of her eye until she elbows the blue-tailed Heeler's arm.

"Ow" Rossi reacts in pain to his mother's elbow. he interlaces his hands to play with his thumbs while starting starting to swing with his feet and explains slowly, "Let's say that my cousin doesn't like it when people mention that she's never had a boyfriend in her life because she starts to cry... And she would also like me or anyone else to never mention it again in their life."

"OR I'LL SEND YOU TO HELL ANIMAL!"

Socks shouts furiously from the trailer, making Rossi jump in fright and hide behind his mother Frisky quickly

"We have to control that mouth somehow, Rossi" says Bluey with her eyes half closed

"Hey, who wants to go ahead and eat?" Chilli approaches the caravan, stirring the salad that was in the bowl with a long spoon, but stops paralyzed like Frisky when she sees the dark blue Labrador "Bluey, who is he?"

Bluey opens her eyes completely and runs towards her mother. "Mom!" Bluey slows down to carefully hug her mother, who still has her arms occupied. "You were right! You were right!"

"Uh, about what?" Chilli stands still in place totally confused

Bluey separates herself from her Mother and grabs her by the shoulders "The world is a magical place" Bluey says excitedly and then steps aside, revealing Jean-Luc "Look who's back"

Jean-Luc just stood there shaking one of his hands like he did with Bluey in the stream moments ago.

Chilli squints her eyes, trying to recognize Jean-Luc until she opens them completely "Oh, I remember when you left, Bluey spent a week crying for you"

"MOM!" Bluey screams shameful, with Jean-Luc letting out a giggle and Mackenzie looking confused at the three of them

After laughing, Jean-Luc says, "Yeah… I should have said goodbye properly."

"Don't worry about the past, Jean-Luc," Chilli says, adjusting the bowl on her arm. "The important thing is to live in the present. Now, you guys want something to eat, Stripes made some chops and hotdogs"

Mackenzie was going to protest with his index finger up until Jean-Luc spoke first "Yeah, sure, I'd like to"

"Perfect, Mackenzie, I know you're going to say no, but you know I'm going to insist" Chilli says and then turns around and says "Bluey, could you help me with the salad

"Ok, Mom" Bluey says and then turns to Jean-Luc and Mackenzie "you guys can walk anywhere; after all, Mackenzie knows everyone"

"Ok, Bluey" Jean-Luc nodded, but Mackenzie looked unsure of what was going on

Bluey turns and starts walking to accompany her mother, leaving Jean-Luc and Mackenzie on their own

Mackenzie places his hand on Jean-Luc's shoulder to pull him towards him and says worried "We should call my parents; I don't think they know we're here"

For some reason Jean-Luc scans the camp until he points to where the grill is "You mean them?

Mackenzie looks where Jean-Luc is pointing and is surprised to see his parents talking to Bandi and Stripes next to the grill; Mel notices the look of the two boys and screams while waving her arm "MACKENZIE!"

"Oh, wonderful" Mackenzie says, irritated and dropping his shoulders

"It seems like we will stay here for lunch" says Jean-Luc, but Mackenzie could notice the happiness in what the he said

"And what about our plan to show you the city?" Mackenzie asks worried

"Ehh…" Jean-Luc reacts by squinting one eye with his cheek and shrugging his shoulders "That can wait; I want to spend more time with Bluey"

"Oh, ok" Mackenzie expresses without emotion and then turns his eyes to his parents and says "At least… Can you talk to my parents to see if that is the plan?"

"Qui" The French-Canadian answers before leaving to talk to Fozzie and Mel

This leaves Mackenzie alone in the middle of the camp. The Border Collie took the moment to look at Jean-Luc, who was talking to his parents, and Bluey, who was helping her mother with the rest of the food

Mackenzie had an idea that Jean-Luc and Bluey had a very special relationship, but the question that bounced around in his head was

"How special was it really?"

---

After cooking under the watchful supervision of his older brothers, Stripe finally finishes his duty of cooking steaks, beef ribs, and sausages for the hot dogs.

And going one by one, each grabbed what they were going to eat until only Stripe was left at the end. The purple Heeler, aware of his daughter Socks situation, saved some food for his girls, who were still entrenched in the trailer.

With the help of Fozzie and Stripe...and Rossi, Bandit arranged two wooden tables together with a white blanket on top so that everyone present could eat together.

Mackenzie and Jean-Luc already had their plate of food, Jean-Luc had his steak with a portion of salad but Mackenzie only decided to eat a hotdog with tomato sauce and chips that Trixie brought.

When the two canines were in front of the long table, they noticed that there was room for two between Bluey's parents and Mackenize's parents

Mackenzie thought about sitting next to Bluey, but to his dismay, Jean-Luc stepped forward and sat next to her, leaving Mackenzie sitting next to his father.

As Jean-Luc places the plate on the table, he asks "Excuse me, but where can I get something to drink"

"Oh, I'll take care of it, Jean-Luc" says Bluey, getting up from the table but is interrupted by the Labrador

"It's okay, Bluey, I can do it myself" insists Jean-Luc, placing his palm on Bluey to make her sit

"Ok, we have sodas in a small cooler behind the trailer" explains Bluey, pointing to the trailer

"D'accord" says Jean-Luc, he stands up to go but asks Mackenzie first "Hey Mack, do you want me to get you something?"

"Nah… Can I go with you" Mackenzie answers emotionlessly and stands up with Jean-Luc to go to the trailer

As they were walking, Mackenzie kept going back to her question about Bluey and Jean-Luc until he was interrupted by the last one.

"Mack…" Jean-Luc says looking at Mackenzie "...are you okay? you seem different"

Mackenzie shakes his head and answers "Yes, I'm okay…just thinking"

"Ah well, I should have known…" Jean-Luc says, still walking next to Mackenzie "Sometimes I get like this if I'm thinking"

Mackenzie ignored the last thing he said, but luckily for him, the two had already reached the back of the trailer, and indeed, there was a cooler.

Mackenzie bends down with Jean-Luc and says "Let's see…what do we have here" as he opens the cooler

The two canines take a look and manage to see soda cans of "Coke, Orange and… Grape?" Jean-Luc says curiously as he grabs a purple can soda

"They're good…" Mackenzie says, grabbing a can of orange-flavored soda and pointing at Jean-Luc with the can "...It even matches your fur"

Jean-Luc snorts and protests with the can in his hand "I'm blue, not purple"

"Huh…Too bad there aren't any blueberry-flavored cans"

"In that case…"Jean-Luc stands up with the can of in his hand and starts walking

"I'd rather have orange fur so I could drink orange so-"

"WOW"

Just as Jean-Luc turns to the left to get out of the back of the trailer, an orange-colored figure collides with Jean-Luc.

From the shock and the impact, Jean-Luc drops the can, and thanks to his quick reflexes, he manages to grab the figure by its arms to prevent him or the figure from falling to the ground

Mackenzie hears the commotion, still crouched, heads to the right side placing his right forearm on the ground, and manages to see the figure with Jean-Luc and greets it, shaking his free arm "Oh…Hi Bingo"

Jean-Luc continued to grab Bingo's arms while the Labrador and the Heeler continued to breathe heavily from the scared with their gazes completely fixed on the dog in front of them.

"Hello…" It is all that Bingo manages to say in a low voice while her gaze remains focused on Jean-Luc's eyes

"Hello…" It is also all that Jean-Luc manages to say in a low voice while he continues to look into Bingo's eyes

…

…

…

…

"Hello?"

Mackenzie raises his voice with his sore forearm on the ground "Bingo, what do you want to drink? I don't want to be down here all-day"

"Oh" Bingo finally reacts and tilts his head to the side to say "Coke, I want Coke"

Mackenzie rolls his eyes and composes himself, staying out of Bingo's sight.

With Mackenzie dealt with, Bingo nervously looks at Jean-Luc's arms and then looks into his eyes again and says quietly "I'll be fine; you can let me go now"

Jean-Juc shakes his head and says "Oh yeah, okay"

Jean-Luc let go of Bingo, and quickly, the two took a step back. Jean-Luc crosses his arms and looks nervously away, breaking eye contact with Bingo, While Bingo adjusts the fur on his body and arms…and quickly passes a hand over her head.

"I'm Bingo" a nervous Bingo composes herself and to shake the Labrador's hand "Bingo Heeler"

Jean-Luc looks back at Bingo and says at the same time as he shakes the orange Heeler's hand "Jean-Luc Labrador"

"And I'm Mackenzie Border-Collie" says Mackenzie out of nowhere, standing between the two with an orange can and a red can "This is Bingo, the girl I told you about this morning, Luke"

"Huh"

"Talking about me behind my back Eighties" Bingo says, taking the can of coke from Mackenzie's hand

"I just told him about the day you bought that console for your father. Summer sun" Mackenzie says confidently

"And I still think it was the best purchase I've ever made in my life" Bingo says as she opened her can and took a sip

"Wait…" Jean-Luc says, raising an eyebrow and looking at Mackenzie "Your father this morning said Daughter in plural…" Jean-Luc turns his head towards Bingo and points at her "So… Bluey has a sister?"

"A sister named Bingo" Bingo says, pointing with his pinky at Jean-Luc, still with the can in her hand "For an international student, you are smarter than I expected"

"Did you already know that I am here as an exchange student?" Jean-Luc asks, tilting his head to the side

"Yes, Bluey already told me everything" Bingo says, pointing over her shoulder towards the table "I would like to talk more with… you guys. But I would also like to eat my hotdog. So… I'm going back"

"Yeah Let's get back to the table before the food gets cold" Mackenzie says

"Ok, you two start…" Jean-Luc says before picking up his can from the grass "...I still have to do something"

"Ok" Mackenzie and Bingo respond. The two teenagers start walking, leaving Jean-Luc behind

With Mackenzie and Bingo far enough, Jean-Luc extends his two hands away from his body to open the can and as expected the gasses cause the drink to come out of the can aggressively but not shooting out of the can like champagne. With the drink slipping from his fingers, Jean-Luc takes the opportunity to take a sip

"Ummm Je peux m'habituer à ça " Jean-Luc says in French after tasting the soda and starts walking back to the table.

---

"Ummmmmmmmmm Je peux définitivement m'y habituer"Jean-Luc says in French, his cheeks full of food, as he brings another piece of meat to his mouth.

Mackenzie and Bluey lean forward so they can see each other between Jean-Luc. All the dogs present were eating and talking at the table except for Stripe and his family, who were still in the trailer. Mackenzie says, confused "What did he say?"

"I can get used to this," Bluey translates and then looks at Jean-Luc in amazement

Jean-Luc finishes swallowing what he already had in his mouth and continues "Screw the diet" Jean-Luc pokes a piece of meat with his plastic fork and says, while admiring the portion "This is the best meat I have ever tasted in my life"

"I'm glad you like it. That's Uncle Stripes' secret recipe" Bluey says as Jean-Luc brings the portion to his mouth

"With important touches from Uncle Rad" Radley adds, who was sitting at the other end of the table with Frisky to his left and his son to his right

"And with important revisions from Bandit" Bandit says, earning a friendly nudge from his wife while the dogs laughed at the comments of the two Heelers

"Really…" Fozzie begins to speak with his plate without food, which was next to his wife on his left and Frisky on his right "Thanks so much for sharing with us"

"Nah, you're welcome, Mate" Bandit says, shrugging his shoulders and continues "It's a shame that Stripe couldn't share with us; you know how it is…Family always comes first."

"Yes, we do" Fozzie says before finishing his soda and then looking at Mackenzie and Jean-Luc "Shall we go? The day is still young"

Mackenzie looks at her father with wide eyes, and his tail starts to wag at the news, but Jean-Luc tilts his head to the side looking at Fozzie.

"You know what…" Mel starts to speak with her shoulders relaxed "...Why don't we stay a moment longer and let Jan-Luke introduce himself, as if this were a school"

"Huh" Mackenzie and Jean-Luc react confused until Bluey places her elbow vertically on the table and rests her head on her hand

"She's right; I barely know about you, Jean-Luc" Bluey says, looking curiously at Jean-Luc

"Yes!…" Bingo joins in the conversation from the other side of the table "...If you're going to hang out with us to school, then I'd like to meet you now"

"Yeah! Come on, mate " Radley encourages

"Jean-Luc, Jean-Luc, Jean-Luc" They all encourage him hitting the table with their fists and palms, chanting his name, except for Mackenzie, who just stared at Jean-Luc

After a few seconds of enduring the social pressure, Jean-Luc looks up at the sky and then lowers his gaze and surrenders "Okay, I'll make a presentation"

"Hooray" They all celebrate with open arms except for Mackenzie

---

"This will be interesting" Mackenzie thinks curiously as Jean-Luc gets up from his seat and walks behind where Stripes and his family were supposed to go so everyone can see him

When Jean-Luc gets to his position, he turns his back to the table, and Mackenzie can see how the Labrador moves his foot and arms as if he is warming up his muscles… It was obvious that Jean-Luc was thinking about what to say.

Finally, Jean-Luc stays still and says to himself.

"maman a élevé une garde, pas une lâche"

Jean-Luc sighs, turns around to his audience, and begins.

"Bonjour à tous…" He waves "…My name is Jean-Luc; I am 16 years old, and I am a blue Labrador from Quebec City, Canada. I like to walk in the city or in nature. I have two best friends named Louis and Thatcher; I like spending time with them…although sometimes they go too far." Jean-Luc whispers the last part and then continues "Many dogs describe me as a reserved person, but when I'm with my friends, I can be more outgoing. I still don't know what I want to do with my future, but I have an interest in writing and Hockey… Oh, and I'm also on the school Hockey team with my best friends"

"Oh?" Chilli and Bingo react, but Chilli is the first to comment

"We also play Hockey" Chilli says, pointing at Bingo and herself

"Ice hockey?" Jean-Luc asks, squinting at the two red Heelers

"Ground hockey" Bingo answers, shrugging her shoulders indifferently; causing Bluey and Frisky to laugh

"I've seen some games of the American League" Bandit says with his arms crossed "They really hit each other hard on those matches"

"Qui…" Jean-Luc barely murmurs as he caresses his left cheek with his left hand

"Question…" Rossi raises his hand out of nowhere, getting Jean-Luc's attention "Why did you decide to come to Australia?

"Oh" The question took Jean-Luc by surprise "Ehhh…" Jean-Luc crossed his arms between his stomach and chest, but Mackenzie noticed how Labrador bounced his gaze between Bluey and Rossi.

Finally, Jean-Luc starts to talk.

"Because I did go to Brisbane when I was a kid, I don't remember many of the details, but… I remember how nice it was to walk without worrying about the snow, without worrying about wearing so many clothes… I also remember the colors of Brisbane and Australia; everything looked so… Alive, compared to my home in Canada"

"And also…" Jean-Luc looks at Bluey with a smile, and his tail starts to wag "I remember the memories I made when I went camping here"

Mackenzie glances at Bluey and realizes that she was also wagging her tail when she heard Jean-Luc.

"Ever since I returned to Canada" Jean-Luc continues "I have always had that desire to return to Brisbane, and I was finally able to fulfill that dream thanks to my school's exchange student program. So here I am, ready to start studying with Bluey and Mack at their school"

"Wow" Rossi reacts in amazement

"Question" Mel says excitedly with a raised hand as if she had returned to school "How did you meet Alice?"

"Ugh" Jean-Juc drops his shoulders in disgust before composing himself and continuing to speak in a monotone "It was after my trip to Brisbane…"

While Jean-Juc tells how he met Alice, Mackenzie relaxes and stops focusing his gaze on Jean-Luc. His mind goes into a hurricane with the names "Bluey," "Jean-Luc," "camp," "school," "Canada," and "exchange student" in between.

Jean-Luc and Bluey were happy to see each other, not one of them, both of them. And of all the places they met again, it was at the same camp, on the same weekend, at the same time. Mackenzie's brain was racing with two answers: either they coordinated all this time, or the world was rigged against him

His head was also racing with the chemistry of the two. Bluey had never but never treated him or some of his friends in the group the way she treated Jean-Luc. Even if he was lucky, Bluey hugged him more than once at school.

But she…She looked so happy to be with Jean-Luc; he should be happy for Bluey to witness a magical reunion.

But that wasn't the case for the Border Collie.

His stomach was churning.

He didn't want to see those two together.

He wants to be with her.

He and She

He wasn't happy

He was worried about Jean-Luc.

He was anxious about Bluey.

He was scared of himself

And like a math exercise…Mackenzie already had his answer.

He was…

"AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH"

Notes:

References

Surfers Paradise Race: This is the closest Australian V8 race to Brisbane (it's actually right next to Brisbane), and what Mackenzie was referring to were the "pit guns" that are used to change tires at pit stops. I wish there was a racing episode on Bluey...well we have fanfiction for something, right?

JINX JINX JINX: The Fairy Tale episode tells how the Jinx works and Mackenzie's mother shouting her name is from "Space"

Chapter 6: Contact

Notes:

Unlike the other chapters, I wrote this one in English, I'm still deciding which language to use to write

"AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH"

A high-pitched, bone-chilling scream from Socks came from the trailer, causing Jean-Luc to stop and Mackenzie to open his eyes in surprise. Every dog turned their head towards the trailer, but it didn't take long for the door to burst open, with frightened Socks, Muffin, Trixie, and Stripes running out of the trailer.

Bandit instinctively gets up from the table and takes a few steps towards his younger brother's family. The four frightened Heelers stop running when there is a distance between them and the caravan and begin to approach the table, looking over their shoulders every second towards the caravan.

"What's going on?" Bandit asks with his arms open in uncertainty.

The four Heelers began to chatter over each other, creating a pandemonium in which no one understood anything. The rest of the dogs, united in their concern, started approaching the four Heelers, hoping to know what was happening, but there was no coordination due to the panic in their voices.

"HEY!…" An impatient Radley shouts, causing the four Heelers to fall silent. "One at a time!"

Stripe steps forward, still terrified. "There was a spider this big." Stripe spreads his arms out exaggeratedly to give an idea of the spider's size.

"It's a giant with long legs," Trixie says, expressing exasperation.

"And it's so… hairy," Muffin says before shivers run through her body.

"I've never seen a spider that big in my life," Socks says, his reddish eyes filled with the same terror her family was experiencing.

After hearing the testimony of the four, Bandit and Radley look at each other and then… laugh out loud?

To the surprise of everyone present, Bandit and Radley laugh in front of their younger brother and family. Stripes approached his two brothers angrily, pushing them both by their shoulders with one hand while saying, "It's not a joke. It's serious!"

Bandit finished laughing, wiped his tears, and said, about to laugh again, "Yeah, sure, the mother of all spiders also came to visit us."

"Yeah…" Radley says after laughing and then gives Bandit a friendly punch on the shoulder, "...A spider…" Radley spreads his arms as Stripe did and says jokingly in a thick voice, "...THIS SIZE."

Due to Radley's scene, he and Bandit laugh out loud again until Chilli grabs her husband's shoulder and forces him to look at her. "Get serious, Bandit. What if that spider is poisonous?"

Frisky follows Chilli's example. She stands before her husband and says "Chilli is right. What if that spider bites one of the girls?"

"Or boy," Rossi says without permission next to Fozzie.

"Come on, Chilli," Bandit ignores what his wife said. "When someone says the spider is big, ninety percent of the times it's a tiny spider"

"But this one is BIG" Stripe implores

"There's only one way to find out."

Bingo says confidently as she walked past the adults.

"Where are you going?" Bandit asked, turning his head towards Bingo

"If you are right, I shouldn't have any problems dealing with the small spider," Explained Bingo, still walking

Mackenzie watched Bingo walk towards the caravan alongside Bluey and Jean-Luc, anxious to see what would happen to Bingo, it made sense to the Boder-Collie; she was the family's insect expert.

"Take care, Bingo," shouted Muffin.

"Good luck, Bingo," shouted Socks.

When the orange heeler reached the trailer's entrance, Bingo touched the door frame, turned her head towards her family, and said, "I'll be fine; don't worry about me." Finally, she entered the trailer.

All the dogs present approached the trailer, anxious about what Bingo would find in there.

Until they heard Bingo say…

"Awwwwww, what a beautiful thing...come here beautiful...that's it...you're a brave spider, did you know that?"

"haha," Bandit forces a laugh but then looks at Stripes, who was still scared. "You see, a small spider

Everyone manages to see Bingo's back, who was retreating to the caravan's exit, but when she turns around to leave the caravan, she reveals…

And it cannot be emphasized more.

A GIANT BROWN HAIRY SPIDER THE WIDTH OF HER FOREARM IN HER PALMS

Everyone's eyes open like Chinese porcelain plates, and chaos breaks out in the camp.

Muffin, Socks, Trixie, and Frisky ran screaming at the top of their lungs toward Radley's truck. The three Heelers climbed into the back seats, and Frisky into the passenger seat. Already seated in the car, Frisky screams, annoyed, pointing at Bingo, but nothing could be heard through the windshield.

Stripes hid behind Radley, who managed to hold his son Rossi by his shoulders. The latter laughs at the chaos he is witnessing.

Chilli jumps, screaming into Bandit's arms, and the big blue Heeler takes a few steps back to get away from Bingo's spider.

Fozzie and Mel stood there unfazed. Even Fozzie nodded slightly with his head.

Out of nowhere, Mackenzie felt a hand on his shoulder and a pull to the right, making him collide with the fur of something. Mackenzie looked over his shoulders to see that Bluey had improvised a barrier between her and Bingo using Jean-Luc and him.

Bingo looks confused at the chaos unleashed in front of her, looks directly at YOU, and says, "Don't try this at home."

"DON'T YOU DARE COME CLOSE TO ME BINGO!" Bluey screams over Jean-Luc's and Mackenize's shoulder.

"Why is she holding the Spider like a pet?" Jean-Juc says quietly, still keeping his gaze on Bingo

"Let me introduce you to Bingo Heeler again," Mackenzie answers quietly with his eyes half-closed

"So, little spider, huh?" Stripes brags victoriously, still behind Radley

"Shut up!" Bandit shouts, still holding Chilli in his arms.

Bingo laughs proudly and then raises his palm to the same height as his face, standing face-to-face with the brown spider and sings

Poor little bug on the wall, ding ding

No one to love him at all, ding ding

No one to tickle his toes, ding ding

No one to blow his nose… pbbbt hahaha

"Hey, does anyone want a turn holding her… this spider is harmless," Bingo asks after singing to herself, holding her palm up high for everyone to see the spider.

"Is it poisonous, Bingo?" Chilli asks frightened

"Yes, but it's harmless," Bingo says as if what she just said wasn't important.

"I want…" Rossi says, hypnotized as he takes two steps before Radley grabs him by the shoulders again

"No, of course not, Rossi," Radley says as he pulls his son toward him.

"Aw"

"Bingo, please leave that spider on a tree!" Chilli ordered, pointing at the trees behind the trailer.

"Ok, Mom," Bingo says, But an idea comes to her when she sees the three teenagers. "Do you guys want to hold the spider?"

"NOPE!" Bluey shouted, and she stepped back while holding both their shoulders; Jean-Luc let the Blue Heeler move him back. But Mackenzie stayed still, looking at Bingo and the spider with no fear in his eyes.

Bingo noticed Mackenzie ignoring Bluey and Jean-Luc and asked him, extending her arms with the massive spider, "You wanna hold it, Mack?"

Mackenzie didn't respond immediately but looked behind him to see the girl he fell in love with and the new guy who could probably be…a rival. Scared of the giant spider

"Mackenzie dont…" Chilli speaks up, but Fozzie stops her with a "shhh" with his arm crossing her as if he wanted Mackenzie to hold the spider

Finally, Mackenzie looked back at Bingo, who was closer to him with the spider and though

"You may be the best of the best back home, Luke…But welcome to Straya boy."

Mackenzie extended his left arm, permitting Bingo to pass over the spider. She carefully moved her hands next to Mackeznie's hand, and the spider moved over to the new territory. Mackenzie's body stutters at the contact of the fur and legs of the arachnid moving slowly up his arm

"Haha," Mackenzie reacts, the spider still moving up his arm until it reaches his shoulders. Mackenzie naturally shrugs his shoulders, but Bingo speaks behind him.

"Don't do that, Mack," instructs Bingo behind Mackenzie to ensure the spider is fine. "You don't wanna make the spider uncomfortable."

Mackenzie followed Bingo's words and breath slowly and deeply to ignore the massive spider in his shoulder. Eventually, it worked, and the shoulders of the Border Collie relaxed to let the spider crawl freely.

Finally, the spider passed his shoulder onto his right arm, allowing Mackenzie to look determinedly at the giant brown hairy spider. Bingo also moved to the right side of his body to receive the arachnid. Mackenzie noticed what his friend wanted to do and extended his arm to Bingo's arms to make the transition.

Without any problems, the spider ended his journey through the fur of a Border Collie and returned to Bingo's hands.

"Oh wow," Bingo raised her hand to her head to look at the spider face to face. "You really are a good spidey."

"Ok Bingo, you had your fun," Chilli talks from afar…still in Bandit's arms. "Now put that spider back into the forest."

Bingo turned to her parents, but she raised her eyebrows, and a smile started to form on her face. "Actually…im gonna keep it."

"WHAT!?" Everyone exclaimed except of the Border Collies

Bingo managed to get the reaction she wanted. She laughed and said, "Nah, im just kidding But…" Bingo looks down at the spider before continuing, "I wanna spend more time with this Huntsdog spider. We barely get time at school to study them."

Chilli was going to say something, but she is interrupted by Mel. "I would let her. Huntsdogs spiders are quite inoffensive compared to the rest of the animals we find in our barn."

"Also," Fozzie gets in the conversation, "My cousin in Wellington has those spiders as pets."

That piece of information causes Bandit's body to shiver.

"Ahh"

Unfortunately, that also causes Chilli to fall onto the ground.

"Alright then…" Bingo turned her feet, preparing to walk away. "Im going to be over there spending time with…" Bingo looks at the spider and frowns, annoyed. "I still gotta give you a name."

With Bingo walking away with 'She will figure out the name later,' Normality returns to the camp. Radley and Stripes relaxed while the girls went out of the truck at the sight of Bingo leaving with the spider.

"Ok, here is something I don't get," started talking Rossi after separating from his father. "why is she, and my cousin allowed to hold massive insects?"

"Remember that Aunt Brandy doesn't want him to do that." Replied Radley and held his son by the shoulder to return to the table

"but it's so unfair,"

"I don't know why you did that," said Bluey, coming from behind Mackeznie with Jean-Luc beside her. "But that was impressive."

"Yeah, I thought it was going to bite you" Added Jean-Luc.

Mackenzie struggled to turn around and digest the sight of the two dogs together. The Border Collie knew why he did what he did, to make a point he is braver than him, but afraid to make the situation uncomfortable for the three of them, he just answered indifferently.

"What can I say…" Mackenzie shrugged his shoulder. "Spending time on a farm has its benefits ."

"Yeah, I figured." Bluey nods

"So your family owns a farm?" Jean-Luc question him

"His aunt has a farm outside of Brisbane." Bluey speaks tilting her head towards Jean-Luc "I would tag along with them to help around. He always volunteers to herd the cattle"

"I'm a Collie. It's in my blood," says Mackenzie proudly.

"Im just letting you guys know," says Jean-Luc, raising his palms. "If there are more spiders like that on your farm, I'm not going."

"Why? scared of a harmless spider, Luke?" Mackenzie jokes, moving his finger in front of Jean-Luc, simulating a spider

"It's not the spiders… it's the size that gets me." The Labrador Defended himself, crossing his arms on his stomach

Mackenzie and Bluey looked at each other and then at Jean-Luc, saying in unison, "Welcome to Australia, mate."

Because of the synchronization of their voices, Mackenzie and Bluey couldn't avoid laughing at what they did. The laughing reminded Mackeznie that Bluey could probably share the same feeling he has for her, but…there was still a lot of smoke in his mind before he could make the leap. But for now…he was going to savor this little moment he had with her

When both dogs started to regain their composure, Mackenzie noticed Jean-Luc looked at them with a little smile and his tail moving slowly, but a shout caught the trio's attention.

"Mackenzie, Jan-Luke." Mel shouted alongside the adults, "It's time to go."

"Yes, Mom," Mackenzie shouted back, turning to see Jean-Luc and Bluey with sad faces.

"I guess, I will see you at school, Bluey," Said Jean-Luc as he turned to the Blue Heeler.

"Hey, um," Bluey said, putting her hand behind her ear. Bluey's voice gained the attention of the Labrador. "I live near Mackenzie's. I could visit you after im done camping."

"Really?' Jean-Luc said, amazed as his tail starting to gain speed

"For real life, I could show you the city since you are going to be here for a year,"

"Im already showing him the city today, Bluey," Mackenzie protested, leaning his head to his side, annoyed.

"But Brisbane is a big city, Mackenzie. It's impossible to see it all in one day,"

"What if…" Started to talk Jean-Luc with a hand under his mouth. "Mackenzie shows me parts of the city until you return from camping, and then you will show me your favorite parts of the city."

"That sounds great," Agreed Bluey cheerfully. "What about you, Mackenzie?"

Mackenzie stayed put, thinking of Jean-Luc's plan. Unfortunately for him, Bluey is right; Brisbane is a big city, and his plan extended for a couple of days. He could split his part of the plan with Bluey to make his life a bit easier, but…that also means Jean-Luc will spend some time alone with Bluey, which is obviously a bad idea for the Border Collie.

But that also means overstepping in Jean-Luc's experience. The Labrador is there to travel and gain experience with the world, not to be bossed around by the host family; he is indeed living under their rules as a guest…but that's under their roof, plus his parents would get mad at him for bossing him around.

He had to admit it…it was a checkmate.

"Yeah, I agreed."

"Hooray!" Bluey and Jean-Luc celebrated with their arms extended

Mackenzie sighed, mentally praying to all the Gods that his decision wouldn't backfire, and said, "Let's go, Luke. My parents are probably waiting for us."

"d'accord," Jean-Luc agreed in French and turned to Bluey. "I'll see you later, Bluey."

"à plus tard Jean-Luc" Farewells Bluey with her hand, and the two boys started to walk back to the pickup truck.

---

When the two boys walked by the pickup truck, they noticed Fozzie next to the passenger door and Mel in the copilot seat, still talking to Bandit, Chilli, Stripes, and Radley. Mackenzie hops on the passenger seat behind the driver, but when Jean-Luc was about to get in the car sitting behind Mel, a shout interrupts him.

"HEY…" it was Bluey who got closer to the trucks." Can I have Jean-Luc for a moment?"

Mel looked at the seat behind her to find Jean-Luc nodding at her and responded, "Yeah, sure, Bluey."

Jean-Luc stopped trying to get into the truck and walked over to Bluey. Mackenzie heard Bluey and looked over to see the Blue Heeler and the Blue Labrador exchanging words. The conversation ended with Jean-Luc nodding before the two dogs started to walk back to the camp.

The curiosity got the better of Mackenzie, and he exited the car to follow the two dogs.

While maintaining a safe distance, Mackenzie observed how Bluey and Jean-Luc walked past the grill, the tables, the caravan, and beyond…

"What are these two doing?" Question Mackenzie in his mind when he notices Bluey and Jean-Luc walking back to the pink tree. The little hope he had earlier vanished in thin air and his mind got conflicted again when he processed the possibility of Bluey being Jean-Luc's girlfriend.

Mackenzie managed to watch how Bluey and Jean-Luc hopped down into the dry river bed where the tree is. Jean-Lul pulled out his cell phone, and Bluey smoothed the fur on her face to ensure she looked okay.

"You ready?" Asked Jean-Luc, showing his cell phone to the Blue Heeler

"Yeah," Bluey said, positioning herself alongside Jean-Luc with the pink tree behind her.

Jean-Luc extended his right arm with his cell phone in his hand while both teenagers put one arm around the shoulders of each other and smiled for the camera with the tree behind them to take a selfie

Mackenzie looked from afar, hiding behind a tree big enough for him to hide. A song of snowfall falling sounds off in his head while his exterior only projected a neutral face of sadness.

This was It?

Did he lose Bluey?

Mackenzie moved his head to hide behind the tree and slightly smacked his Head to the wood. His breathing got heavy, and he closed his eyes to avoid the tears coming out.

"No…this can't be," Mackenzie thought as one tiny tear slipped past his eyelids. He pulled out his phone to reach his friends for help but it showed no bars. He had no signal.

"Fuck…" Makenzie turned around and let his back feel the wood And slowly let it slide the tree to sit down at the base of the tree

Mackenzie opened his eyes and looked up to the leaves, which cast a shadow that hid his vulnerable side. He ran his hands over his eyes to remove his tears and said to himself, "C'mon, Mack…you don't wanna go back like this."

As Mackenzie cleaned off his eyes, he heard a boy on his right. "So when are you going back from camping?

It was Jean-Luc talking to Bluey while they were walking back.

"Two more days" Bluey answered. "I'm coming back on Monday."

"Cool…did you notice Mack acting strange today?"

"Not really" Bluey answered "but that stunt he did with the spider, that's not uncommon for him to do."

"What do you mean?" Jean-Luc questioned, but the two dogs were too far from Mackenzie for him to hear

With the feeling that he'd gotten rid of the tears in his eyes, Mackenzie slowly stood up from the Ground and shook off the grass that had gotten stuck in his fur. He took one last look at the pink tree and thought, "That tree must mean so much to them…" but stopped when something else caught his eye…something white…something of paper.

Curious, Mackenzie got down to the river bed and it was more apparent to him that it was a paper folded several times…like a note

Being raised right by his parents, Mackenzie picked up the paper to put it in the trash back in the camp, but his curiosity got the better of him, and he opened it to find a note and read it for himself.

"Hi Bluey, I'm Jean-Luc, your childhood friend. I'll be in Brisbane for a year, and I'd like to see you again. Call me or text me on this number…"

"What…the…fuck"

The paper's content shook Mackenzie, and a million ideas flew through his mind. He doubted everything he knew about Jean-Luc, but one thing sticks out for him.

"This could explain why Jean-Luc acted weird on our way here. He knew what he was doing."

Mackenzie shook his head. He didn't have time to digest this; he saved the note on his hip and walked back to the camp to leave with his family…and a stranger.

---

"Just make sure to listen to him. The more time you spend with him, the better you will understand him."

Bluey finished talking to Jean-Luc, who was already beside the Border Collie's truck, waiting for Mackenzie to return.

"Yeah, I think I understand," said Jean-Luc.

"Out of all the families that could have been your host family, Im really glad you got them."

"You are right." said Jean-Luc, looking at Mel and Fozzie, still talking to the Heelers

Mackenzie showed up by the Heeler's camping site, walking back into the two dogs' field of view. At the sight of Mackenzie, Bluey said to Jean-Luc, "I will see you on Monday, Jean-Luc."

"Yeah, can't wait for Monday,"

Bluey giggled and confessed, "Me too," and could not avoid giving Jean-Luc a quick hug, which the Labrador accepted gladly.

Mackenzie watched the hug from a distance and growled under his breath. Tired of watching them together, he ignored the scene and walked directly to the back seats of his parent's car.

Jean-Luc looked at the displeasure on Mackenzie's face and separated from Bluey to hop on the vehicle

"Oh, looks like Mack came back from doing his necessities," Said Fozzie before walking around the car and hopping on the driver's seat

Fozzie turned on the engine, Mackenzie and Jean-Luc got comfortable for the long trip back, and Mel said goodbye to everyone present. And finally, the orange Truck backed out and started to drive away.

"See ya later, guys." Bluey and her family waved goodbye to the Border collies and Jean-Luc as the orange truck left their camping area. When the car was far enough, Bluey did not hesitate to go back to the trailer and enthusiastically grabbed her book and pen

The Blue Heeler opened the book where the first drawing of Jean-Luc was. She took a closer look at the incomplete drawing, then ripped the page out and started from zero with a new image of Jean-Luc in her head.

As Bluey started drawing Jean-Luc's shape again. Bingo hopped on the caravan without the spider and when she spots her drawing again, she asks, "So what are you drawing this time, Bluey?"

Bluey stopped what she was doing and pointed at her with the pen to respond, "You remember Jean-Luc?"

"What? you mean the Labrador that was here moments ago?" Bingo said, confused, as she sat down on the little table

"Yeah, But you remember the drawing of me and a dark blue dog when we shared your room.

"I think I do. You always implored Mom not to throw it away"

"Well, that dog is actually Jean-Luc, and I'm making a new drawing of him."

Bingo shook her head, opened her eyes wide open, and said, amazed "THATS HIM!?"

Bluey nodded excitedly and exclaimed, "YEAH!

"Wow," Bingo lay back on the seat and put a hand on her head, thinking of all her sister had told her. "So after that camping trip, he became an exchange student and flew all the way from Canada to here. Just to see you again?"

Bluey nodded again and said, "Wanna know what he wanted to leave for me?"

Bingo nodded, curious to see what it was about, but when Bluey reached the back of her hip where her pockets were, she couldn't feel the note.

"Huh? That's weird. Where did it go?" Bluey stood up and started looking under her seat and at the table, but there was nothing. Driven by her confusion, she left the caravan and started looking around the camping area.

When Bluey left the caravan, Bingo put her elbows on the tables to form a platform to sink her face onto her hands and whispered, "Mackenzie is in trouble."

---

Two hours later*

Lookout west of Brisbane*

It was 5 pm in Brisbane, and the sun started falling behind the summit, signaling that it wanted to leave the city into the horizon as it projected an orange tint in the sky. The border-collie truck arrived at Mackeznie's first stop in their "Mack's tour of the city," the highest summit in Brisbane where the lookout is

It was an obvious first choice for Mackenzie; he lost count of how often he hung out with his friends after school or just because they wanted to, considering the proximity to their houses and the school.

Jean-Luc went up the stairs with the Border Collie parents behind and Mackenzie dead last, without any desire to catch up to them. When the dark blue Labrador reached the top, he was amazed by the sight. "Wow"

In front of the lookout were the suburbs where Mackenzie's family lived. A combination of trees and houses painted the surrounding area to the lookout until it was met by the skyscrapers conforming Brisbane's downtown far away.

Jean-Luc slowly walked to the railing of the mount and posted his elbows on it. The Labrador was having his moment of peace and awe when Mel called him next to a pair of binoculars, "Hey Jan-Luke, wanna take a look through the binoculars?"

"Sure," Jean-Luc said and walked over to Mel.

In the meantime, Mackenzie walked over to the top of the pavilion the moment he reached the lookout area, sat down on the stairs, and watched Jean-Luc as he tried to get the binoculars working with Mel.

The eyes he observed Jean-Luc with are not the same ones he used when he first met him at the airport. The note he found back at Bluey's camping site left him wondering who Jean-Luc actually was.

Did he really…travel from Canada to steal Bluey from him?

Did he plan this all along?

If so…are they just pawns in his game?

The last doubt rubbed Mackenzie the wrong way. He hated the idea of being used like that, especially if he also used his family as pawns. Unfortunately, he was interrupted.

"Hey Mack," his father called and started to go up the stairs to accompany his son. "Everything ok?"

"Yeah…I think so," Mackenzie said as Fozzie reached the step where his son was and sat beside him.

"What's going on?" Fozzie said in a comforting voice

Mackenzie thinks for a second, deciding if he should mention the note he found. He taps his knee repeatedly with his right hand and gathers enough confidence to speak up: "What do you think of Luke?"

"Huh…I think he is a good kid. I can tell he was raised well by his parents," Fozzie started talking. "I'm amazed you guys got along this fast, considering you didn't attend any of our video chats before he arrived."

"Sometimes I didn't care; I wanted it to be a surprise" Mackenzie confessed before saying, "But sometimes, you know damn well why I couldn't."

"True that," Fozzie shrugged his shoulders and raised his palms. He lowered his hands and changed the theme. "How is she, anyway?"

"Getting better, but the trauma is still there," Mackenzie said

"I guess that's progress, But what about you?" Fozzie asked

"?" Mackenzie's eyebrows jumped, and he looked at his father.

"What do you think of Jak-Luc?" Fozzie goes back at him with his own question

"Well…" Mackenzie turned his head to see Jean-Luc again…struggling with the binoculars with his mother

"Parce que cette merde ne rentre pas!" Jean-Luc complained in French as he struggled to push the coin into the coin tray.

"Keep trying. I know this will work!." Inspired Mel as she also struggled to get the coin in

"He seems like a good guy to hang out with, but…" Mackenzie pulled out the note he found to his father. "I'm afraid I'm wrong."

"What's this?" Fozzie asked as he grabbed the note and read it. When he finish, he questioned, "I don't understand. Did Jak-Luc met Bluey before?

"Yeah…I found them hugging next to a tree outside the camp; they even told me they met each other eleven years ago"

"But this note implied that he wasn't expecting to meet Bluey right away," said Fozzie as he kept inspecting the note

"Yeah, that's why he acted weirdly on our way there." Mackenzie explained his theory "It may be true that he visited the tree, but he also wanted to leave that note for Bluey…"

"… Whenever the heelers came back to camp," Fozzie finished what Mackenzie started saying as his eyes slowly opened up entirely.

"So it looks like we have been played like a damn fiddle," Jokes Mackenzie as he sarcastically shakes his hands like a clown. Because he felt like a clown.

"So, does this mean?... He is going after Bluey?" Fozzie Said

After hearing his father's foreseen future, Mackenzie sighed, leaned back, and admitted, "I think so."

"Oh boy," Fozzie reacted as he put one hand in his head out of stress before calling him in a deep authoritarian tone, "Son…"

Mackenzie's eyes widened when he heard his father's tone. It was the tone before he taught something to him.

"Sometimes In life, you gotta step forward and let them know who is in charge."

"And how am I supposed to do that?"

"By letting him know she is off limits, I'm not saying you should go up to him and punch him, but I'm sure you will figure out a way,"

"Ok, Dad, but what are we going to do with him in the meantime? We can't let him use us"

Fozzie sighs as he takes a look at her wife…Who was still helping Jean-Luc with the binoculars?

"And my tax dollars are going to this piece of…"

"J'AI COMPRIS!" Jean-Luc exclaimed, interrupting Mel as he finally managed to get the coin in and look through the binoculars with the Border Collie next to him

After Looking at his wife and Labrador making the binoculars work, he said, "Your mother will try to defend him, so let's just be smart whenever he opens his mouth."

"Alright, Dad." Mackenzie agreed, and both guys looked at Jean-Luc, who was using the binoculars, and Mel, who had a hand on his back, pointing out several points of interest for the Labrador to look at.

They looked at the two dogs until Jean-Luc turned around and shouted, "Hey guys, wanna take a look?"

The Father and son duo side-eye each other, and without saying a word, they get up and step down the stairs. As they almost reach the end of the stairs, Fozzie tells his son, in a voice low enough for him to hear him, "Remember, be smart."

Mackenzie didn't talk back and walked over to Jean-Luc and Mel. As they got close, Jean-Luc stepped aside to let Mackenzie use the binoculars. But just as he moved the binoculars, the lents shut down; the time of use just ran out.

"Aww" Mackenzie sadly expresses

"Didn't know it was going to last this long," said Jean-Luc, annoyed

"Well, it's about to be dark soon," said Mel, looking at the orange sky. "I think it's time to come back home."

"I agreed. I really don't wanna drive anywhere else today," Said Fozzie…being smart.

"Well, I really appreciate you guys for an amazing first day in Brisbane," Said Jean-Luc, grateful

"No problems, Jan-Luke. We still have the rest of the week to hang out around town," Mel says

"Ehh, we got two more days together, and then Bluey is going to show me some parts of the city," said Jean-Luc

"Oh, thats fantastic, im glad you got to meet Bluey today. She is a very good friend of Mackenzie," stated Mel

"Yeah, I know," Said Jean-Luc as his tail started to wag

"Alright, let's get going" Fozzie said, turning around to get off the Summit. Mel and Jean-Luc followed close, and just as they got on, it looked like they would get off with Mackenzie behind the three dogs.

Mackenzie started walking and took advantage of the situation to think about what his father had told him.

"You gotta let him know Bluey is off-limit. I guess, as a guy, he will understand." Mackenzie though

"At the end, be smart, Mack, be smart."

---

The day finally ended for the Border Collies and Jean-Luc as they parked into their house. Mel was the first to get off and suggested, "Hey, what if I cook some curry for tomorrow?."

"I'm down," Fozzie said as everyone walked to the entrance. "But let me make it cuz the last time you did it, someone's mouth got on fire."

Mel giggled and said, "Sweetie, the spicier, the better." Fozzie opened the door to let everybody in and when she got in, she continued, "Right, Jan-Luke?"

"We don't eat spicy food in Canada," Jean-Luc answered quickly.

"That sounds sad," joked Mel, going to the Kitchen

"well, im going to be upstairs to call my family," said Jean-Luc starting to go up the stairs

"Ok, What about you Mackenzie? " questioned Mel

"Im just gonna go to sleep; it has been a long day," Said Mackenzie before taking the stairs and going to his room

"Hey, Wanna watch a movie tonight?" Fozzie suggested to Mel

"As long as it's not Monkey singing songs, then yeah," Mel said before going to the kitchen to make tomorrow's lunch.

Upstairs, Jean-Luc had already made his way to his room when Mackenzie reached his room with the sign "AVAILABLE" on the door knob. He got in and went straight to his computer. Mackenzie turned on the computer, sat down on the red and black chair, and put on his red headphones…even though he didn't feel like he wanted to play.

When Mackenzie's computer turned on, he immediately opened "Disclaw" to see if his friends were online to talk to them. Unfortunately, no one was online; they were probably working or spending their little time available before returning to school.

Except…

Honey…

Her username and profile picture showed the green dot, which meant she was available.

Mackenzie felt curiosity fill his body, anxious to talk to one of his friends.

But his heart…told him to stop.

His brain… told him it was a bad idea.

His soul… backed him out

The second Mackenzie regains control of his body. He closes "Disclaw" without missing a beat.

"Not yet…Let her rest. You don't wanna get her into this," Mackenzie thought as he slowly moved his hands away from the keyboard and mouse and minded his own business.

Mackenzie swung his chairs left and right, thinking of the revelation of Jean-Luc meeting Bluey again, the note he found, and what his father told him earlier at the lookout. He had so many questions and so few answers that he started to damn himself for not attending the video chats they did before Jean-Luc arrival to his house.

One part of him still wished to be friends with the dark blue Labrador, but he felt like he wasn't going to make it if he was still trying to be Bluey's boyfriend. Especially after hiding the fact he went to the camping grounds to leave a note for Bluey behind their backs

Mackenzie pulled out Jean-Luc's note to look at it determinedly.

He needed to answer for the note.

Mackenzie got up from the chair and left his room to be directly in front of Jean-Luc's room, still holding the note.

"Remember, Mack, Be smart." Mackenzie thought before he knocked on the door three times

…

…

…

"You can come in."

Mackenzie opened the door to find Jean-Luc sitting in front of the desk to do homework with his phone in hand, trying to call his family.

The border-collie enters the room and closes the door behind him, still hiding the note. Mackenzie's odd behavior is noticed by the Labrador, who gets up the chair to stand in front of Mackenzie and questions him in a worrisome tone "What's wrong, Mack?"

Mackenzie took a deep breath and set his eyes straight on the Labrador's eyes, piercing them and looking into his soul, and thought one more time.

"Be smart."

Mackenzie raised his hand, the hand in which he was holding the note for Bluey to show Jean-Luc, and said, "You need to explain this."

Jean-Luc's eyes snapped open before he passed both hands behind his hip to notice he didn't have the note on him. He closed his eyes, took a deep breath, took a second to probably choose his words carefully before saying, "This ain't what it looks like."

"What?" Mackenzie snapped his head forward, not believing a word he was saying. "To make my family drive you all the way out of Brisbane to send a note to my friend?"

"I know it was wrong what I did today," Jean-Luc started to implore. "Forgive me, Mack. I didn't know what I was doing."

"Do what!?" Mackenzie was slowly losing his patience. "You knew what you were doing!"

"I didn't!... I should have known better."

Mackenzie broke visual contact with Jean-Luc and moved his head around, thinking of what he would say next. With everything on the tip of his tongue, he raised his index to Jean-Luc and warned him, "From here on now, you are going to come out clean, no more secrets, no more hiding stuff."

Scared, Jean-Luc nodded rapidly and said, "I agree, I'm not going to intervene between you and your feelings for Bluey."

…

…

…

…

…

"What?" Mackenzie asked with his eyes wide open

"Look, Mack," Jean-Luc put his hands together and appealed, "I respect you, a helluva lot, even more than some of the opponents I faced in Canada. It wasn't my intention to give the impression I have feelings for Bluey. I just wanted to reconnect with an old friend from the past." Jean-Luc put a hand on his heart and continued, "In fact, I'm extremely happy for you cuz Bluey is a wonderful dog, and you are so lucky to share such a wonderful relationship with her, and I'm hoping you guys get together soon."

Mackenzie was dumbfounded by what he heard, to the point that he could not avoid asking, "How did you know I have feelings for Bluey?"

"Well," Jean-Luc recomposed himself, "I figured Bingo was Bluey's sister, and from there, it wasn't that difficult to figure out that the crush your father was talking about this morning was Bluey."

Mackenzie let out a single chuckle and said, "Bingo is right. You are smart."

"Yeah…when you are an exchange student and the unofficial captain of a high school hockey team, you oughta be smart at some point. But yeah, don't worry about me trying to steal your crush," Jean-Luc chuckled, trying to calm down the situation, but this didn't earn Mackenzie any grace.

Mackenzie looked down and away from Jean-Luc, thinking of what had just happened.

Jean-Luc straight-up promised him he would not be between him and Bluey.

He shouldn't be worried…right?

He had no idea where Bluey was standing, and Jean-Luc had already hidden stuff from him and his family.

It was too early to let his guard down, considering they were hanging out when Bluey returned from camping.

"I hope so," Mackenzie warned him. He left Jean-Luc's room but was still polite enough to close his door.

Inside the Labrador's room, Jean-Luc touched his forehead and said, "J'ai fait une erreur? Pas vrai? "

Outside his room, Mackenzie opened his door to get in, but he noticed the "AVAILABLE" green sign. Before getting in and closing the door, he turned it around to show the red side of the sign that said

"NO AVAILABLE"

Jean-Luc…

Now, he would make sure not to forget that name.

Notes:

Referances

The "huntdog" spider; basically a huntsman spider and yes, there are cases of people adopting these spiders

"We have been played like a damn fiddle"; I have never thought of putting a reference to Metal gear solid 5 but here we are lol

"Monkeys singing songs" Bluey's favorite reddit phrase lol

it is until here that i managed to write, i will try my best to bring the next chapter as soon as possible

you guys know the drill, leave a review, follow and like the story if you guys are liking it

and until the next time

Chapter 7: Starry feelings

Notes:

I wasn't expecting this chapter to be so long but it was actually fun writing it.

Camping area, outskirts of Brisbane*

After a day filled with emotions and a long-awaited reunion for the Blue Heeler, the night finally covers the forest in a pitch-blank mantle. The insets of the forest sound off in between the trees with the birds that landed earlier in the branches to rest for the night. However, some trees were covered by the light color orange of a nearby light source…a fire pit set up near the caravan of the Heelers.

Around the campfire were all the family members, each one with a stick and a marshmallow on its tip, aiming to the top of the campfire to melt it. Some members like Bandit, Stripes, Radley, and Chilli were talking while Trixie had her girls Muffin and Socks leaning into her to feel the warmth of her mother. Rossi and Frisky were busy making something Rossi learned at his primary school, S'more sandwiches. This leaves a lonely Bluey, the only one with two sticks with marshmallows.

As her family continued telling each other stories of their daily lives, Bluey didn't pay attention to the conversation and focused on the slowly melting marshmallows. When the marshmallows melted enough for her, she said to her family before getting up, "I'm going to be with Bingo."

"Ok, Bluey," said Chilli before continuing to talk to her father and uncles

As Bluey got up and started to walk away from the light and the warmth of the fire, she was submerged in the cold and dark night of the forest. She made sure to be careful enough not to clash into a tree or find another spider like her cousins did and drop the marshmallows for her and Bingo. The Heeler walks until she reaches a clear break outside the group of trees. The light of the bonfire projects itself through the trees behind her, but in front of her, the light of the moon cast on top of the grass and the few flowers around a red heeler with a blanket covering her, she recognized the figure as her sister looking up to the few shining stars that are bright enough to be seen.

Bluey walked behind until she was close enough to say, "You need company?"

Bingo's ears jump up at the sound of her sister, and she turns around to meet her under the moonlight. "Oh, it's you…" Bingo also looks at the marshmallows she brought along. "You brought one for me?"

"Obviously," Bluey answers, shrugging her shoulders and walking beside Bingo. She sits down carefully, and Bingo covers her with her blanket to protect her from the cold of the night. When the Blue Heeler is comfortable enough, Bluey extends her hand with the stick with marshmallow to Bingo to give it to her.

"Is it gluten-free?" She asks

"Always," Bluey responds confidently, resulting in Bingo grabbing the stick and eating the Marshmallows In one bite.

Bluey also eats the entire marshmallow in one bite, looks up at the sky, and says, "It is really a beautiful night."

"Yeah, Jack is right," Bingo said, getting closer to Bluey to be warmer. "To think those stars are actual planets is a mesmerizing thought."

"Too late to explore the world, too early to explore the stars," Bluey recalls something Jack said before

"But just in time to be in this confusing world," Bingo joked half-heartedly, and Bluey quickly noticed that

"Something wrong Bingo?"

"It's just…" Bingo slightly leans back to the sky. "I'm just thinking, that's all."

"It must be some serious thinking if you are here by yourself," Bluey responded, looking at Bingo.

"Yeah…it actually is," Bingo said in a tiring voice, which caused Bluey to keep asking.

"Soooo, can I know what it is that's bothering you?"

Bingo doesn't respond immediately, but she keeps her sights on the stars until she mutters, "Bluey…" The red heeler lowers her gaze to Bluey and shoots her question away, "What is it like to be in love?"

"!" Bluey's eyebrows raised immediately. She knew this kind of conversation would come up one day, but she never thought it would be during the camping trip. The blue Heeler turns her head to the ground below her to think of an answer. She knew exactly how it feels to be in love, eleven years of experience to be exact, and now she must figure out a way to compress all those years she wanted to be with Mackenzie into an answer to her sister

"Well…" Bluey gathers the courage to keep talking. "I guess you just feel happy; you can't avoid feeling happiness whenever something reminds you of him. Sometimes you look at yourself in the mirror and think 'Today, im going to keep it together', but when you finally stand in front of him or even when someone mentions his name, you just aren't ready for it. You feel your knees give up on you, you feel… your heart wanting to come out of your chest, but even if you hate the feeling of breaking down in front of him…you want more. It's like a drug. You just want more of it and try everything in your power to be next to him. You always debate in your head should I try to hug him? Should I try to talk to him? Should I try not being a weirdo around him? You really try your hardest not to think about it all day, but still…you end up thinking about him."

Bingo stayed quiet while looking at her sister, absorbing everything she told her until she said somberly, "Are you finally going to confess to Mack?"

"Oh" Bluey mentally smacked herself. Of course, Bingo would say something like that after pouring her heart out "I don't know… I don't know how im going to do this. Im…afraid."

"Bluey, this is your last year with him. It's now or never,"

"You are not helping" Bluey said, looking away from her sister

At the sight of what she had provoked, Bingo looks away from her and says, "I'm sorry,"

The little time both sisters look away from each other makes Bluey think about what Bingo said; this was indeed going to be her last year with her friends from Glasshouse before separating and going on their own to the world. Jack has already committed to join the Army, Rusty will continue his path to become a professional Cricket player at a University. Chole, Indy, and Snickers decided to leave Brisbane to study in other parts of Australia; the Terriers want to go to their homeland in Scotland to study, Judo will most likely go to London to study to be a professional stylist, and Lucky expressed his wish to go to the United States to study to become a sports commentator. Leaving her with Mackenzie, Honey, Winston, Winnie, Coco, and Pretzel, still deciding on what their future will be like, although she may have an idea where Honey and Pretzel are going to go

If she needs to confess her feelings for Mackenzie, it needs to be soon.

Wait, she has her crush on Mackenzie…who Bingo got a crush on?

She probably has the answer.

"Hey, Bingo," Bluey called her in a low voice, turning her head to see her. "Who did you fall in love with?"

She had to admit it was a bold question, but Bingo reacted, turned her head to look at the ground before her, and started tapping her leg. Bingo stayed like that for a few seconds before looking up at the sky and to the ground a couple of times until she finally said, "Can I ask you something first?"

"Yeah, sure," Bluey responds without concern.

"What if... hypothetically," Bingo started to talk, "One of your friends likes… someone of the same gender?"

"I guess accept them," Bluey answered. "That doesn't define them who they are."

"But what if…if its someone like…Winston"

Bluey chuckled at the thought. "That would be impressive, but yeah…I would accept him either way."

"What if… is someone like Rusty?"

"That wouldn't surprise me, but yeah…I will still be his friend."

"what about…Jack?

"NOW, I wouldn't be surprised. You see how he follows Rusty everywhere." Bluey giggles a little

"What about someone like…Winnie"

"Same thing, I will support her."

"What about…Chloe"

"Honestly…" Bluey started to talk but noticed how Bingo got trembled by the word used "...I don't see it, but I will still support her."

Bluey noticed how subtly Bingo relaxed before continuing, "What about…Muffin or Socks"

Bluey turned to look behind her to ensure her cousins weren't nearby before looking at Bingo again and saying, "That would be the surprise of the year. But still, I would love them just like I loved them before."

"What about…" Bingo stops looking at her sister to look straight. Her face stiffens, and she closes her eyes with force before letting out in between her teeth, "Your own sister."

…

…

…

"That wouldn't change a thing," Bluey said in a comfortable tone, her heart pounding with force while she put her arm around Bingo, who slowly relaxed her mouth and face.

"You are still my sister. I will still love you for who you are."

Bingo relaxes her entire face, and a tiny tear emerges from her closed eyes. Without even expecting it, Bingo throws herself at Bluey and covers her with her arms in a tight hug, causing the two sisters to lie down on the grass.

"You are the best freaking sister I could ever ask for," Said Bingo with teary eyes.

"Me too Bingo. You are the best," Bluey says while putting her arms around Bingo to accept the hug. "So, who do you have a crush on?"

Bingo giggles a bit before confessing, "Lila, I fell in love with Lila."

"Called it," Bluey smirked victorious

Bingo separates from her sister and questions, "You knew?"

"You talked about her in the caravan as if she was your true love,"

"Oh, yeah, I couldn't help it," Bingo said ashamedly, putting her right arm over and behind her back, but Bingo's face got a serious expression and asked, "Do Mum or Dad know about this?"

"Probably not," Bluey answers. "But I'm pretty sure they have an idea, but they will accept you either way."

"Good, I wanna tell them whenever I'm feeling ready," Stated Bingo

"Of course," Bluey says as she gently pushes Bingo up to get up from the ground. Bingo and Bluey return to sit down as before, with the mantel covering both dogs

When both sisters look at the sky again, Bluey asks, "Since when did you have these feelings for Lila? "

"A couple of months, but honestly, it was today that those feelings grew stronger, "Bingo explained happily.

"Why?"

"I don't know. I guess spending time in the woods with a massive spider in your palms can make you think more clearly."

"Yeah, that sounds like something Bingo would say," Bluey quips, causing both sisters to laugh aloud.

When Bluey and Bingo stop laughing, Bluey asks, "So, who else knows about this?

"You and Dougie"

"DOUGIE?" Bluey exclaimed, looking at her straight away

Bingo simply nodded proudly. "I told him a week ago, it was hard to…" she raises her hand to look at her palms "... 'Tell him' how I feel about her, but he understood me, he even hugged me and signaled me how happy he was for me."

"He is simply a boy made out of gold."

"No…He is made out of diamonds," Bingo says before grabbing the mantel behind her and getting up, saying, "I'm tired. I'm going to sleep."

"You know what…" Bluey managed to say as she was about to yawn but managed to keep it in. "Me too. It's been a long day."

"Yeah, who would have thought you would reunite with Jean-Luc earlier?"

"None one. This world is truly a magical place." Says Bluey as she also gets up and walks alongside her sister toward their tent

Bluey and Bingo reach their camping spot, where the tents are. There are five in total: one for Radley's family, one for Stripes and Trixie, one for Muffin and Socks, one for Bandit and Chilli, and one smaller one for the Heeler sisters.

As Bingo kneeled to get into her tent, she requested as she got in "If Mum or Dad start snoring, I will volunteer to wake them up."

Bluey kneeled too and talked as she got in. "Alright, all yours then."

When Bluey got in the tent, she turned around and used the zipper to close the tent from the wind of the night to sleep to their next chapter the following day.

But what Bluey didn't know that night

Is that someone has feelings for two separated dogs

---

Next morning*

Border-Collie's home*

"Alright," says Mel, stepping back into the garden at the front of the house. She shakes the dirt off her hands to stand alongside Fozzie and Jean-Luc, the sun shining bright in the sky. "What do you guys think?"

In front of the two border-collie and the Labrador, there are four pots on the porch: two big pots with one New Zealand flag each representing the two parents and two smaller pots, one with a New Zealand flag representing Mackenzie and one with a Canadian flag representing Jean-Luc.

"Looks awesome," Adds Jean-Luc while nodding while Fozzie also nodded

It's been less than 24 hours since Jean-Luc reunited with Bluey and got confronted by Mackenzie. he was feeling happier than usual to accomplish what he wanted in the first place: to reunite with Bluey and befriend her again. But another part of him was shaken and worried about Mackenzie. It looked like he wasn't happy at all for him to be near Bluey. The confrontation last night shook him so much that he lost hours of sleep thinking of what he was going to do going forward. He had already promised him that he was going to let him be Bluey's Boyfriend, But at the same time, he wanted to spend more time with her without getting him mad

Barely 3 days in Brisbane, and he has to make his brain work, and classes haven't even started…wonderful.

RING RING*

RING RING*

Mel's cell phone starts to sound off. "Huh, I wonder who is calling me so early," she grumbled as she picked up her phone from her hip and answered without looking at the caller ID

"Hello?...OH Hi ALI!...Yeah, he is with me."

Both dogs look at Mel in confusion until she takes the phone away from her ear, puts it on speaker mode, and hands it to Jean-Luc. "It's Alice"

"Alice?" Jean-Luc reacts confused but grabs the cell phone and answers, "Hey Alice, what's up?"

"Hey Jean-Luc, you know I said I would give you a couple of days to rest, right?." Alice's voice sounds off on the cell phone

"Yeah, I remember,"

"Well…"

---

One hour later*

The orange truck arrives at the visitors' parking lot across from the massive gray and blue two-story complex. The second Mel turns off the vehicle, Jean-Luc gets off immediately to find the place where he is going to spend most of the year in front of him.

"Let's go, Jan-Luke. Alice must be inside," Says Mel, adjusting her purse and starting to walk toward the entrance

When both dogs started to get closer and closer to the entrance of the building, Jean-Luc began to slow down and down, letting Mel go ahead until he stopped far and close enough to see the five big stars under an extensive set of letters above the doors that says

Professor Berthold. R Koolie*

Southern Stars High School*

"(This place is definitely bigger than I saw on the photos, bigger than Tyler's too,)" Jean-Luc whispers in french

"Let's go, Jan-Luke," Mel calls out while holding one of the many doors that lead inside.

Jean-Luc reacts to the sound of the Border Collie and walks to the entrance to the school. As he ultimately gets in, he is met by the many foldable tables that make up part of the main hall of the building, which is connected to both Classroom halls with lockers on the side, two sets of stairs that go to the upper floor where more classrooms are located, the main hall also connected to the library, a computer room, the main office where the principal office is located and a small hall that leads to the cafeteria and the fields.

And in the middle of the Main hall, there is the Canadian Eskimo responsible for Jean-Luc's presence, facing toward the cafeteria.

"Alice!" Jean-Luc shouts at the sight of her friend

Alice turns around to see her compatriot coming at her. She is 34 years old and has shorter fur like her older sister. She also has glasses that make her look intelligent and knowledgeable, with a set of red headphones around her neck. "Jean-Luc, Mel!"

"Hey, hey, hey," Jean-Luc celebrates with his arms slightly out as he gets close enough to hug Alice. In the middle of the hug, he says, "I made it, I made it!"

"Hell yeah, you did," Alice celebrates too. "I told you I was proud of you, and I still am, you guardian."

"(Mom raised a guardian)." Jean-Luc separates from her, and with his closed right fist, he bangs simultaneously with Alice. "(NOT A COWARD!)" Jean-Luc and Alice shout at the same time and open their fists to high-five each other in celebration.

When their antics are done, Jean-luc quickly adds in French, "(I found her)"

Alice's eyes open entirely, and she respond amazed, "(You are kidding me)."

Jean-Luc just shakes his head, and Alice turns to Mel. Both white and brown dogs pointed at each other for a few seconds before opening their arms and saying, "Sister!" before getting together in a hug in between giggles.

"You look taller than what I imagine," Says Alice as she separates from Mel

"What about you? You look smaller in person," Adds Mel, lifting her finger up

"I got a really tiny camera, alright, plus the camera made me look younger than normal."

"Haha, I might need one of those cameras then; I'm getting old," Mel bent her back backward to get the point across

"This wannabe teenager," Jean-Luc gets in the conversation. "Said one day that if you say you are old, you are going to feel old."

"I taught him right," Says Alice as she points at Jean-Luc with her thumb. "It's all in the head; you gotta mentalize what you want in life, and you will get it."

"So if I think I want a million dollars, I'm going to get it one day." Mel sets an example

"Yes, and robbing a bank helps too," chips in Jean-Luc, making all three dogs laugh.

After laughing, Alice extends her arms. "Sooooo" and turns around herself to showcase the main hall while saying, "What do you guys think of Southern Stars?"

Jean-Luc looks around to form an opinion. For some reason, the hall's colors reminded him of something: "This looks cool, but somehow…this feels…American?"

"Then you are going to feel like at home."

The three dogs turn to the male voice of a young adult on the stairs. It came from an authoritarian yellow dog wearing a black suit and pants going down the stairs as he keeps his hand on the rail, his chest up, and a warm and friendly smile.

When the imposing yellow dog got to the end of the stairs, he continued with his arms extended as he got closer to Jean-Luc, "Welcome to Southern Stars, my friend, where we create the stars of tomorrow."

"Sounds good," Jean-Luc commented. "It could go on a t-shirt"

"Actually." The tone of the yellow dog changed entirely to a friendly, playful voice as he unbuttoned his suit, and when he unbuttoned enough, he spaced his suit out to reveal a t-shirt with the phrase he said before. "We already did it three years ago."

"Wow"

"Oi, where are my manners?" The yellow dog shakes his head, bottoms his suit again, and shows his hand for Jean-Luc to shake it. Without asking twice, Jean-Luc grabs it, and the yellow dog starts shaking his hand. "I'm Thomson Chinook, But you can call me Tommy. I'm the principal of this school, and it's such an honor to finally meet you. I'm a big fan of your work with the Guardians."

"Really?" Jean-Luc's eyes light up at the mention of his team

"Yeah!" Tommy let go of Jean-Luc's hand. "When Alice told me that you are a future Hockey superstar, I couldn't avoid looking at some of your matches, And let me tell you, I love the match you had against the Operators in Hamilton."

"Yeah…" Jean-Luc barely let it out from the discomfort of having a "Superfan" in front of him. His demeanor totally changed to precaution. A hockey superstar? he had never heard of something like that before. He knew some of his matches were good but not to the point of being called a superstar, but still, he carried on and put a hand on his head to signify pain. "Head hurt for two days after blocking that shot."

"But the warcry you let out after…ufff." Tommy's fur shivers. "My blood ran wild"

"Well…" Alice forces herself into the conversation. "Let's have him set up the classes so he can keep resting. Changing a time zone like this ain't no joke on the sleep schedule."

"Aw, c'mon, Alice." Tommy dropped his shoulders and pleaded, "Don't you wanna show him the school? The classrooms, the fields, the auditorium."

"But you said…" Alice gets closer to Tommy and points a finger to his chest in a threatening way. "...We set up the classes, and he is going back."

"Please, Alice," Tommy slowly transformed his face to use his puppy eyes against Alice and continues in a pleading voice, "You know how important this is for me and the schoo.l"

Alice's face remained strong, but after a few seconds, it started to twitch out of cuteness from the Chinnok until she finally said, "Agh, Fine." She turned to Jean-Luc and asked him, "You want to stay longer and see the school?"

"Ehh," Jean-Luc turns to Mel, who is on her phone. "What about Mack? Can he wait for us until we are done?"

"Now that you mention it," Mel starts to talk while still typing on her phone, "Mackenzie wants me to take him to Blaze's now to talk to some of his friends."

"Ok, so we are going to take care of Jean-Luc in the meantime," Says Alice, shrugging her shoulders

"Yeah, sounds fine." Mel turns around and heads to the exit. "See ya guys."

"See ya, madam Mel " Jean-Luc farewells the border collie

When Mel finally gets through the door and off the building, Tommy turns to the two Canadians and puts a hand on his heart. "Uff, my heart is pounding."

But Tommy's scene is cut short as Alice Looks at him with threatening half eyes closed, and Jean-Luc looks at him with a cheek half closing his right eye

"Oh yeah, sorry." Tommy pulls himself together and looks where the office to see several displays and explains to them while walking toward the exhibition, "To answer Jean-Luc's question about why this place looks so familiar to him, we gotta learn who my grandfather and father were"

The group stops in front of the display of an old green military uniform with a slouch hat where the head is. There are also several photos in black and white and plates that explain the history behind the uniform, but Tommy explains anyway,

"This is the uniform of Bethhold Richard Koolie, my grandfather. He was a farmer until he started playing or teaching the town kids while their fathers worked in the fields.

"When World War two started, and the Japanese Empire started getting closer to Australia, he proudly joined the Australian armed forces to protect the family and kids who counted on him, just in time to participate in Papua New Guinea to defect Port Moresby, look there is a photo right there with his squad."

Tommy points at a black-and-white picture. It was Berthold, the Koolie with white fur, black dots along his body, and white arms. He was one knee down and posing next to five more soldiers with their bolt-action rifles and the jungle behind them.

"After defending Port Moresby and driving back the Japanese attack, his unit was transferred to the Philipines to help the Americans to liberate it from the Japanese occupation.

"And during a typical supplying mission, he and his unit found an abandoned school with a wide array of hungry kids of different ages gathering around to seek shelter. After the war, we discovered that the invasion force sacked their villages and killed anyone who opposed them in the search for much-needed supplies while retreating.

"The scene moved Berthold so much that he convinced his captain to stay and share some of his supplies with the kids. Inspiring other soldiers to do the same, thanks to Berthold and his compatriots. The kids regained their energies and started playing footy, but Berthold and his unit had to resume their mission

"The kids decided to follow the convoy until they reached the supply and medical base on the outskirts of Manila. The Americans soldiers were reluctant to accept the kids, but after pressure from Berthold and his comrades, the base captain accepted

"But in the end, the kids proved to be a great addition to the base. The unmatched energy of the kids helped the war-torn Americans relax as they recovered from their injuries. They even organized themselves into teams to play several sports. The Australians taught everyone cricket and rugby; the Americans taught everyone baseball and soccer, and Berthold taught the kids everything he knew from his time teaching on the farms. His dedication to the kids and the soccer team he gathered was so good that the kids, his fellow Australians, and American soldiers called him 'The Southern Star.'"

"When the Americans kicked the Japanese forces out of the Philippines, the base was dismantled, everyone who needed to go home from their injuries already did while some of them kept going to fight in Okinawa, the rescued kids were sent to the Orphanage to rebuild their lives and Berthold's unit was chosen to be dismantled and to be sent home. Berthold return to the little town to find that the people there built him a school to continue teaching the kids. He married another Koolie shortly after, and they had two kids. My aunt and my father."

"It was when my father got older that the stories of the Southern Star started to ring out in the Philippines and America, So both of them knew they had to tell the story themselves. My grandfather wrote a book about his experiences on the farm, Papua New Guinea, and the Philippines, while my Father followed his steps to become a teacher to spread his story even further. He taught in a high school in Brisbane and got so good at it that he got offered to teach at a university in California. That's when he met my mother, a yellow fur Chinook."

"That explains the yellow fur" Jean-Luc points out

"Yeah, I was the only one in my family that was born with Chinook colors. Both my brother and sister were born with Koolie colors," Explained Tommy

"So anyways," Tommy continued to tell, "15 years ago when the story of my grandfather was well known, my father started a movement to convince the city to build a high school in his honor when Berthold's health was deteriorating. It was finally approved by the Minister of Education, and the school was built based on the experiences of my grandfather on the farm and my father in the Americas. And ten years ago, the school was founded."

Tommy points at a picture, this time with color. It was a gathering in front of the main doors with an old Berthold in his wheelchair cutting the red ribbon to open the school; the photo in color shows that he has black and blue dots all over his body except his yellow arms, expectable characteristic of a Koolie

"When we started to teach at Southern Stars" Tommy started to walk to another, more prominent display, making the Canadians follow him. "We teach with the same passion as Berthold did on the farm and in the Philippines. He and we know how important it is to take care of the next generation and for them to practice hobbies, and thats is something we successfully did over the last ten years"

Tommy stops before the display filled with trophies of different sizes and disciplines. Both Jean-Luc and Alice looked in awe at the trophies until Tommy pointed and said "Look at that guy"

Tommy pointed at a picture of him hugging over the shoulder a red kelpie in cricket uniform "That's our biggest cricket prospect we got this year. He is so good that he managed to hit 6 Sixes consecutively in a match"

Jean-Luc and Alice both tilt their heads to the side confused

Tommy quickly noticed his term mistake and corrected himself. "Well, I think where you guys are from, a six is called a home run"

"Ahhhhhh" Both dogs understood as if lightbulb turned on

"but besides sports," Tommy continues to go to a set of photos that are hung on the walls, "We also teach our students life skills that they will need to be a star out there, like this beagle right here"

Tommy points at a picture of a yellow and white beagle conducting an orchestra

"She is our best conductor in this school" Tommy says and turns to the two dogs. "Considering that this school is accomplishing ten years running with this many achievements, it is an absolute honor to welcome our first batch of exchange students to Southern Stars"

Jean-Luc shakes his head and repeats in confusion, "Batch?"

However, Alice hits Jean-Luc arm with her arm and shushes him down in a low voice, "I already taught you this before," but raises her voice to talk to Tommy, "Well, it's an interesting story, and we are honored to start this collaboration with such a great high school, but I really would like Jean-Luc to choose his classes before Mel gets here, after that, we are free to show him the place"

"Oh yeah, good idea; let me check if Ms. Dingo is here" Tommy says before walking away from the two dogs and getting into the office

When Tommy closes the door to the offices, Jean-Luc returns the favor to the Eskimo, hits her arm with his forearm, and says in a noticeable angry voice in French "(A hockey superstar!? Are you nuts!?)"

"Hey!" Alice turns to the Labrador and Answers in French while pointing at him "(Your reputation precedes you, whatever you like it or not!)"

"(But you know how I feel about this)" Jean-Luc points at her too

"(Well you are here, right?)" Alice stops pointing and raised her eyebrows mockingly "(That's all that matters)"

"(Whatever)" Jean-Luc dismissed as he moved his hand around as if he was pushing her away to look at the entrance of the office to wait for Tommy

"Jean-Luc'' Tommy called, peeking his head out of the door "Ms Dingo is here. She can help you set up your classes''

"Alright, coming." Jean-Luc recomposes himself and walks to the office. When he gets in the office, Tommy steps out and closes the door of the office

"Alice" Tommy calls the Eskimo as he starts to walk to her

"Yes" Alice answered slightly, annoyed

"You know this year is going to be special for us here at Southern Stars"

"I know" Alice responded…still annoyed

"So obviously, I want this year to be special for everyone, and I'm hoping you could help me with that while you overlook Jean-Luc"

"Ok….What do you need help with?"

"I would like to bring over from the Americas some traditions they do at their high schools"

"Okay…Anything in particular you wanna learn?"

"What do you know…about the Prom dance?"

---

Blaze's shakes and Hamburgers*

"So what do you guys think? Should I be worried about this guy?"

Mackenzie finished his story about his first meeting with Jean-Luc, how he thought he was a Frenchman first, the trip to the forest, how he found Jean-Luc and Bluey together, how he found the note next to the tree, the talk he had with his father about confronting him, how the discussion went down where he told Jean-Luc not to use his family but Jean-Luc thought the discussion was because Mackenzie thought he was trying to be Blueys girlfriend… with his arms slightly up and out on top of a white table in a packed restaurant with a theme from the 80s, but on the other side of him…

... Rusty and Lucky are wearing white cook uniforms and wearing a paper hat. Both dogs have their mouths open in astonishment at Mackenzie's story until Rusty reacts by putting both hands on his face and whispering, "Oh no…"

But Lucky shakes his head and points at the Border-Collie. "You know what, you really are"

"A pathetic"

"incompetent"

"Bozo"

"Bastard"

"Muppet"

"Asshole"

"Wanker"

"Tosser"

"A cheap Christmas movie"

"A disgrace to the family name"

"Cocky"

"Smug"

"An Opp to yourself"

"A sorry excuse of a male"

"Pillow biting"

"Tottenham supporter"

"DUMBASS"

Lucky shout out at the last word, making everyone in the restaurant stop what they were doing to look at the yellow Labrador. Some dogs stopped when they were about to take a bite from their hamburgers, two servers looked in astonishment at Lucky, and one cook stopped what he was doing while his hamburger patties were burning on the grill

Lucky takes a look around the restaurant to look at everyone and hits the table with his close fist before saying "I am calm" and covering his eyes with his finger to digest what he just heard

Mackenzie has his eyes wide open, slowly puts a hand on his heart and says "Ouch"

While the restaurant returns to normality. Rusty puts his hands away and says startle "But how can you be so sure he wants to be Bluey's boyfriend? It could be just a simple friendship"

"I know it could be a simple friendship" Mackenzie acknowledged "but you should've been there; you could just feel the love both of them had to each other"

"Fucking hell" Rusty curses as he repeats Lucky gesture and whispers "Fucking dumbass"

"Well…!" Lucky snaps out of his position. "They could very much be in love, but they aren't officially a couple"

"Yeah…" Rusty recomposes himself "We still don't know everything; who knows, there could be a chance for you"

"Besides" Lucky started talking, "Does he have her phone number?"

Mackenzie stays quiet, throwing a quick Look at his friends, the note has Jean-Luc's phone number, so it is really a possibility that Bluey doesn't have his phone number. Which means they are not being able to communicate at all while Bluey is still camping

A little spark Of hope lit up in his heart. There is hope after all

"No…" Mackenzie talks, projecting his hope "They don't. The note has his phone number…so naturally, Bluey doesn't have His phone number"

Rusty and Lucky light up as their eyes open up; Lucky claps once and Rusty Exclaimed while rapidly pointing at him "There you go mate"

"But…" As fast as the hope reappeared in Mackenzie's heart, it vanished at the thought of one detail "...They are hanging out after she comes back from Camping"

"Aw fuck" The light vanished too out of both dogs as Lucky curses

"Yeah, that's all folks" Lucky moved up and down his hands in surrender. "I can set you up with Angela if you want"

Mackenzie rapidly shakes his head, but Rusty looks away from Mackenzie to look beyond their table; his eyes snap open and taps Lucky's arms while saying "And speaking of the devil"

Coming from behind Mackenzie, A yellow and cream husky the same age as the boys wearing a black shirt and black pants appeared with a round tray with their food "Ok, so I got a Texan Double with chips, a Gold Coast Beach Shake and…" the Husky's eyes got slightly shut and she annoying said the last item "A Toowoomba special with no veggies and a side of nuggets"

"Thats me," Lucky sounded off as Angela started to put down the food

"Fucking child" Angela whispered loud enough for Lucky to hear her

"Huh uh, Talk to my hand" Lucky says as he extends his palm to Angela

"Whatever…" Angela dismissed as she finished putting down the food. She put her tray on her chest with her arms crossed and turned her attention to Mackenzie, who had ordered the shake. "You are Mack, right?"

Mackenzie sighed with the shake that Rusty and Lucky gifted him in front of him before saying "Yes," …He totally knew where this was going

"I was wondering…" Angela started to talk as she balanced herself on her heels "...If you know how Honey is doing, it's been a while since the last time I heard about her"

"Oh, yeah, she is getting better" Answers Mackenzie as he starts to shake his shake with a spoon. He totally read her like a book "Better than last year, that's for sure"

"I'm glad to hear it" Angela's face changed as if a lot of weight got off her. "We are all missing her a lot in the orchestra, I'm still wishing her the best"

"I will tell her that," Mackenzie says, and he finally takes his spoon filled with shake to his Mouth

"Please do" Pleads Angela as she turns her attention to Rusty and Lucky and speaks in a dictatorial tone "When you guys are done with your breaks, the boss wants you guys to make inventory in the freezer"

"What the fuck?" "Fuck meee" both guys complained

"No buts" Angela points at them threatening them "You guys know what happened the last time Blaze got mad at us"

"We know" Says Lucky not too happy "We will do that; we are not going to be happy doing it, but we will do that"

"Great." Angela magically changes her conduct to a happier one to go back to dealing with customers. She looks at Mackenzie and says before walking away "See you in S.S, Mack"

Mackenzie couldn't answer due to his mouth filled with the cold texture of the shake, But he waves his hand goodbye to Angela

As Angela goes back to work, Mackenzie and Lucky focus their entire existence on eating the food in front of them. But Rusty, on the other hand, was playing dipping a Chip (A french fry) in ketchup on the plate "Mack?" he calls

"Yes?" Mackenzie manages to say in between spoons of the shake

"What are you going to do next with this guy and Bluey?" He asks

"I still gotta show him the city as planned I already talked to my father. We are going to outsmart him if he suggests something else, but other than that, im going to hope he keeps his word," Explains Mackenzie as he dips his spoon on the shake to continue

"I think the time of hoping is over" says Rusty throwing his Chip to the plate annoyed

"!" Both Mackenzie and Lucky stop eating to pay attention to the Kelpie

"Think about this Macken…"

"Oh no, here we go again" Mackenzie interrupts Rusty as he rolls his eyes and head "At least let me finish my shake"

"NO!" Rusty shouts out and goes under the table to pop out on the other side next to Mackenzie. "You gotta listen to me"

Mackenzie glances at Lucky with his eyes half closed, But the yellow Labrador just shrugs his shoulders and takes a bite out of his hamburger making Mackenzie look back at Rusty, who once again was about to go into "Emotional support" mode

"It's been eleven years mate" Rusty talks "Eleven years we listen to you talk about how madly in love you are in Bluey, eleven years we plan and plan to get you guys together, eleven years all of us get up each morning expecting either you or Bluey to call us and say we are finally together, its been eleven years of hope"

"Nah, The time for hopes and prayers is over. This guy will make a move on Bluey and become her boyfriend if his holy nuts wish him to do so one day. And I'm telling you now, im not going to be your shoulder to cry on if that happens"

"The time to act is now. We know it's possible, I know you can do this; you got an entire army behind you, wishing you the best. So go back home, leave all the cards on the table and plan the moves to finally be Bluey's boyfriend"

"But before you leave us to accomplish your dream" Rusty put his arm around Mackenzie "Promise me something"

Mackenzie glances at Lucky again with an unsure face. The Labrador was looking at the entire speech, but when he notices the Border collie's face he says with his hamburger on his hands "He is dating a lady, i would listen to him"

After Lucky's confirmation, Mackenzie turn his eyes back at Rusty; the look gave Rusty the signal to continue

"If it comes down to it, Mack. At the final week of our final year in high school. Are you prepared to disappoint…"

…

…

…

"Wait, what's his name again?" Rusty Shakes his head, and his tone changes to confusion

Mackenize closes his eyes to think. He inhales the air in, the feeling he felt the last three days flow through his soul, The happiness he shared with Jean-Luc in Downtown Brisbane, the confusion he felt when he found Jean-Luc and Bluey together at the camping site, the sadness he felt when saw Jean-Luc and Bluey together like a couple, the betrayal he felt when he found the note…He finally he let out the air through his mouth and says his name

"Jean-Luc"

"Are you prepared to disappoint Jean-Luc"

…

…

…

"Yes"

Notes:

Is Southern Stars based on an American school?…Yes

Are you still going to put elements of an Australian school in Southern Stars…Yes

Are you going to keep teasing what the hell happened to Honey until I have people begging at my feet…yes of course

The References brother

Some are self-explanatory but here are the ones I'm going to explain

Bertholdt… Bertoldo… Betho… Bertotoro… Berhtold, the colossal titan okay, and it’s impressive how I accidentally managed to put together the German name with the Koolies who are of German descent… sometimes my genius is scary

Southern Stars: considering that most of the scenes are going to take place at school, I took the liberty of giving it a name and lore, I’m not going to talk much but it’s a reference to the southern stars of Australia

Blaze’s: REFERENCE TO ACE COMBAT 5 YES SIRRRRRRRRR, Blaze is the name of the main character of my favorite game. Yes sir, I finally posted one, but this won't be the first time im going to post a reference to Ace Combat

Angela: Same as Jenna in chapter 2, she was inspired by Angela from the Second Lady and the Tramp movie. Same deal as before, this is going to be the only time she shows up. I'm probably going to continue to do this, taking names from other places to be the students at the school.

Well thats all for now, leave comments or kudos if you like what are you seeing and see you all next time

Chapter 8: I missed you

Notes:

It was only recently that I found out that it is spelled “Winton” not “Winston”... Mistakes were made

"Are you for real life!?"

The teenager nods happily as her weight presses down on her bed. Her little version of herself was standing in the middle of the room, her tail wagging rapidly as she was about to burst into extasis

*Bluey's bedroom inside Bluey's dream*

"This is amazing…and we didn't have to do anything!" Exclaim the girl as if her tail was about to get off her body due to the happiness

The teenager put a hand on her mouth and giggled. Her tail was wagging too, but not at the same speed as the girl's. "I know, right? Mum was right after all."

"The world is a magical place," says the girl in awe. Then she hops on the bed and crosses her legs before saying, "So tell me, how does he look now?"

"Ok, okay." The teenager turns to the girl and says, "Sooo…He is tall, he is dark blue, he is strong…"

The girl and the teenager couldn't avoid infesting the entire room with their laugh, but the teenager held it together to say, "He is really strong. I think he is stronger than me."

"Wow." The girl holds it together enough to say, "Tell me more. I want to know!"

"Ok ok…He has a cute smile, he is so gentle, and his fur is so soft. I…" The teenager crosses her arms to hug her soft fur and says,"... just wanna hold it forever."

"Oh, now I wanna hug him myself," Confess the girl as she hugs herself.

"Ooh, just wait…" the teenager says, still hugging herself with her eyes closed. "We are hanging out after we come back."

"I can't wait!" says the girl, leaning her head back and closing her eyes slowly to imagine hugging the Labrador again. WAIT!?... What does this mean?"

---

*Bluey's Home*

*Two days later, Monday*

Bluey slowly opens her eyes just in time as the family car arrives at their safe space. Bandit maneuvers the vehicle to park in front of the house to unload their camping belongings while Chilli and Bingo wake up.

It's been two days since Bluey reunited with Jean-Luc, and Bingo confessed to her the feelings she has for Lila. Everything went smooth sailing for her and the family, from campfire talks to walks into the forest. It helped the family relax from their everyday activities in the city…except for Bluey. Who secretly was counting the hours left to come back to Brisbane to see Jean-Luc again

After enduring the trip back home, Bluey opens the passenger door to get out and stretch her numb arms and legs after sleeping the way back while Chilli comments doing the same thing as her "Home sweet home."

"Where there are no spiders," Adds Bandit on the other side of the car

"Coward," Bingo honestly commented, making Bluey and Chilli giggle.

After reigniting their muscles, the Heeler family moves to the back of the car, and Bandit opens the truck to see all the stuff they have brought back.

"Alright, everyone grab their stuff; if we work together, we can finish this quick," says Bandit as he reaches for his backpack and a folding chair

"Yeah, I can't wait to sleep again," says Bingo, also grabbing her orange backpack and a bag filled with kitchen equipment

"Hey, when we are done…" Bluey grabs her dark blue backpack and continues, "Can any of you drive me to Mackenzie's? I told Jean-Luc I would show him the city."

"Nope," Chilli shakes her head. She reaches for her husband's hip as he walks past her and nimbly pulls out a set of keys. "You are going to drive to Mackenzie's."

"WHAT!?" Both Bluey and Bandit exclaimed at the same time

---

*Border-Collies's home*

The Border Collies family peacefully ate their breakfast: toast with scrambled eggs, mushrooms, and Cherry tomatoes—a New Zealand classic since a dark blue Labrador wasn't eating with them.

"So what are we doing today?" Ask Fozzie with a plate with only crumbs in front of him

"I guess nothing, Jan-Luke said he is going to hang out with Bluey later today," Mel responded, cleaning her mouth with a tissue.

"Okay, I was getting tired of going up and down the entire city," Says Mackenzie, letting out a bit of venom in his words as he picks up his plate to put it in the dishwasher

The last two days were filled with adventures all over Brisbane for the black and white family, from the hills to the beach, from the nearby park to downtown Brisbane. Mackenzie did his part to his mother to show Jean-Luc the city. But it was something he wasn't that happy to do

Mackenzie and Fozzie accomplished what they said they would do with Jean-Luc on the day of the camping trip: Not to let him use them. Surprisingly, Jean-Luc didn't suggest anything else the last two days. It relaxed the father-son duo, but still… they still couldn't relax at all.

"So, what happened with Jean-Luc this morning?" Mackenzie asked, pronouncing his name perfectly as he left his plate on the dishwasher

"!" Both Border-collie parents got their eyebrows shot up. Mackenzie always referred to him as Luke, but this was the first time hearing him saying his actual name.

But Mel shrugs it off and says, "He ate a simple sandwich earlier and went back to his room, probably to talk to someone in Canada."

---

Jean-Luc's room*

"(ARE YOU FUCKING KIDDING ME?)"

A teenage voice that the Labrador hadn't heard since he left Quebec City came out of Jean-Luc's cell phone, shaking the room that Jean-Luc had bothered to decorate the last two days. Canadian Flag and the Sign that said "Welcome to Australia Jean-Luc." on the walls, his red and white laptop on the table, and an empty red backpack ready to be used to go to school

But the screaming didn't bother Jean-Luc at all. He was sitting down at the table in the room. His face focused with his squinting eyes locked on the note he was holding, the same note that somehow Mackenzie found and brought to him to confront him.

"(Nope)" Jean-Luc's face and eyes relax as he answers back, "(I found her just in the place I met her 11 years ago)."

"(Holy shit, dude)" The voice of his best friend Husky Louis came out of the phone again that was on the table next to Jean-Luc's elbow "(This is straight out of a kid's movie or a Fanfic)."

"(Well, it happened in real life too)" Jean-Luc says as he focus again on the note "(But looks like the guy i'm coexisting with, wants to date her, and even he confront me about it after the trip)"

"(ohhhh, someone is jealous)" Louis says in a jokingly voice "(Troubles always seems to find you, that's what i love about you)"

Jean-Luc rebuffs quickly, blowing raspberries with his mouth. "(At least I told him I don't wanna date her, but still…)"

Jean-Luc leaves the note on the table, grabs his phone, gets up from his chair, and walks to the window, still covered with the blinds. But the labrador just lifts a slat to see the street in front of the house to watch for Bluey's arrival since he also figured that she doesn't have his phone number "(The last thing I need is to get confronted again after I hang out with her)."

"(Oh, so you guys are going on a date?)" Says Louis dropping crumbs of banter in his voice

"(No of course not!)" Jean-Luc slightly shake his head "(It's just going to be a simple, nothing romantic hangout to catch up, that's all)"

"(Famous last words?)" Another voice came out as if this dog was far away from the cell phone, and the Labrador immediately recognized who it was

"Thatcher?" Jean-Luc is surprised to hear the voice of his other best friend, the Chihuahua that wants to be called 'Thatcher.'

"(Oh great, he didn't forget about me)" Thatcher's voice sounded higher as if Louis had passed the cell phone to him. "(How is my second favorite friend?)"

"(No, how are YOU doing, dude)" Jean-Luc speaks, still surprised to hear him for the first time since he arrived in Brisbane.

"(I'm doing great, thanks for asking, letting this loser take care of me. But I'm pretty sure this leg will be healed by the time we play our first game") says Thatcher

"(And Im fucking glad for that)" Louis starts speaking as it sounds like he grabbed the cell phone out of Thatcher's hands "(I didn't want to hit the rink as the only competent player on the team)."

"(Shut up)" Thatcher says as it also sounds like he grabbed the cell phone from Louis. "(Hey Jean-Luc, I heard the whole thing, and your problem with this guy)"

"Uh-huh." Jean-Luc crosses his arms on his belly as he holds his phone between his head and shoulder

"(I don't think you have to worry about him, after all he is not controlling your life and this girl's life)" Advise Thatcher

"(True..)" Jean-Luc agrees as his eyes are locked on the stress in front of him.

"(I would just ignore him. If he gets mad that you are spending time with her, then he can suck it up. And if he really wants to cross the line, put him in his place)" Thatcher says over the phone

"(I guess…)" Jean-Luc talks unsure, still considering Thatcher's input "(...I don't wanna end up in that situation thought)"

"(Well I gave you my two cents, ok?) The Chihuahua says "(Do what you want with it)"

Jean-Luc rolls his eyes, but when his eyes go back to look at the street, a red SUV pulls up in front of the house with two figures in the front seats, a red heeler in the copilot seat, and a blue heeler as the driver. He quickly recognized them as Bluey and her mother…although looks like Bluey was having a discussion with her mother

"(Guys, I gotta go. She is here)" Jean-Luc says as he grabs his cell phone from his shoulder.

"(Wear protection you vir-)"

It was Louis speaking, but an annoyed Jean-Luc hung up the call just in time before he could finish.

The labrador grabs the note from the table to save it on his hip and heads out of the room. While walking in the hall and going downstairs, he passes his hand through his fur to accommodate it and ensure it looks good for Bluey. When he reaches the living room and kitchen, he sees Mackenzie watching TV, Fozzie reading the newspaper like an older adult, and Mel washing the dishes, but they still have no idea Bluey has arrived at their house.

*Ding*

The bell of the house is heard throughout the home, making all the Border Collies raise their ears.

"It must be Bluey," says Jean-Luc as he approaches the door without knowing that his tail is wagging

"Bluey?" Mackenzie reacts confused as he turns off the TV and gets up to also go to the door

---

*A moment earlier*

"I TOLD YOU NOT TO GO THAT FAST!" Chilli shouted out, grabbing the handle Above the door

"BUT YOU ALWAYS TELL ME TO PICK IT UP!" Bluey shouts out with her stiff hands on the steering wheel.

"NOT LIKE THAT THOUGH YOUNG LADY!"

"YOU ARE SOO…" Bluey was about to lose it on her mother for being so complicated to take lessons from. But she changes her mind, turns off the vehicle, and annoyingly hands the keys to her mother. "Nevermind, let's go."

Chilli doesn't respond and grabs the car keys with a side eye on her face. She probably knew what she was going to do, and probably they are going to have a conversation about this later on.

But for now, She and Chilli get out of the car and walk toward the modern-looking house of the Border-Collie. The grass and the pavement reminded her of the day she and her family helped the Border-Collies move their stuff from their old house across the street to the new gray and black House. When Bluey reached the main door, she pressed the doorbell and could hear the tone ringing inside the home. She didn't have to wait long for a dark blue Labrador to open the door.

"Bluey!" The French Canadian accent of the Labrador knocked Bluey out of her anger and into a place of comfort

"Jean-Luc!" Bluey slightly opens her arms and gets closer to Jean-Luc to hug him. Her fur colliding with his fur causes something inside her as if her heart skipped a beat, but when she looks over his shoulder, she also notices the Border-Collie. "Mackenzie!"

"¡Hey Bluey!" Mackenzie also opens out his arms to hug her, something Bluey let go of the Labrador without thinking twice and goes up to him to hug Him. The contact with his fur shook her heart; it was so soft, long, and pretty to touch. If it were up to her, she would hug him forever. It warmed her soul so much that she let out a thought in her head, "I love you, Mackenzie."

It seems like a long shot for her, but deep inside her. She believes she could finally be with Mackenzie someday, to travel the world like her parents did before having her, raise their own kids, and live a happy, long life with him. In every dream of hers, he was always there, not Rusty nor Jack, Lucky, or any other boy, just Mackenzie.

After what seemed like an eternity for Bluey, her mother's voice spoke up behind her, causing her to separate from her crush slowly. "Hi Jean-Luc? How is it going?"

"Im doing good; how did it go for you guys while camping?" Asks Jean-Luc interested in talking to the red Heeler

"Oh it was good, we needed that," Chilli responds, but when her sight lands on the brown and white Border Collie coming up from behind them, she says to her, "Oh, hi Mel!"

"Hi, Chilli," Mel greets back and quickly hugs Chilli and jokes. "Ready to come back to reality?"

"Nope, I need three more days in a spa," Chilli jokes back, causing both adults to laugh slightly.

"Well," Bluey steps in when it looks like both of them are going to stop laughing. "We are here cuz we wanna take Jean-Luc to the city."

"Oh yeah," Mel says but emphasizes, "Jean-Luc can go whenever and wherever he wants, im not his mother, after all."

Upon hearing her guardian, Jean-Luc looks at her with half close eyes and sarcastically puts a hand on his heart and let out an "Ouch"

Bluey and Chilli chuckle at Jean-Luc's number, but apparently, for Mackenzie, it didn't cause him much grace.

"Well, maybe when you go back to Canada, im going to convince your mother to let me adopt you," Quips Mel.

"Good luck with that," Jean-Luc says. "She is not going to let me go so easily."

"I wouldn't blame her, thats mothers for you," Chilli gets in the conversation. "Hey, so I thought I could drop off Bluey and Jean-Luc in the city center and have either of you guys or Bandit pick them up. I feel like I don't wanna do anything at all today."

"Oh yeah, sure, you rest. I can pick them up later," Mel agrees.

"Awesome, bye guys," Chilli says her goodbye and turns to her car.

"Oh well, see ya later, Mackenzie." Bluey waves her hand to the Border-collie before turning around and walking to the family car

"See you later, Mack." Jean-Luc follows her example and follows Bluey

"Yeah, See you later, guys" Mackenzie finally says after the whole conversation, but his tone isn't cheerful at all

"Call me whenever you guys need me to pick you up," Shouted Mel, receiving a thumb up from Jean-Luc. She turned away from the main door and returned to wash the dishes.

Leaving only Mackenzie, who just stands there watching how Chilli, Bluey, and Jean-Luc get in the car and set everything ready to part away, And again notices how happy Bluey and Jean-Luc are to spend time with each other, a feeling he didn't experience since the trip to the camping site. Before he could break down as before, he grabs the door and slowly closes it to avoid the sadness from reaching his heart. But it was there that something vibrated in his hip. Mackenzie pulls out his phone to see a text message from one of his best friends

Jack: Hey mate, wanna hop on today? Rusty got the day off, and I got nothing else to do

Makenzie rolls his eyes, thinking of a decision, but quickly sends a text back.

Mackenzie: Sure, I will be on in 4 minutes

In the meantime, inside the car, Chilli drove off the house and set course to get out of the neighborhood with Bluey in the copilot seat and Jean-Luc in the back seat. While driving, she asks, "Hey, before I drop you guys off, can we stop first by the Cafe your friend is working at, Bluey? I feel like im going to fall asleep on the road."

"Yeah, sure," Bluey responds before turning her head towards the back seats where Jean-Luc is, "You want something from the Cafe?"

"Yeah, I always wondered how coffee tasted over here."

"You drink coffee?" Chilli asks, slightly raising her eyebrow while still keeping her eyes on the road

"A little bit," Jean-Luc says, "Whenever mom makes coffee before going to work. I remember she said Australian coffee is better than the Canadian one."

"Well, time to prove your theory," Says Bluey as she turns her head forward while her mother is driving out of the neighborhood

---

Mackenzie's room

"Hey guys, what's up?" speaks Mackenzie through the microphone of his headset

"Doing good, just bored." his sympathetic best friend Jack says on the other side of the call.

"Well, soldiers," Says Rusty with an enthusiastic voice. "Ready to play Army and kick some ass today?."

"Yeap." "Hell yeah, Sarge." Mackenzie and Jack say with emotion

"Let's go, boys," says Rusty as he and his party hit the icon to search for a match to join in

---

*Avril Cafe shop*

Chilli finally arrived at the cafe shop without knowing how she was awake enough to get there in the first place. Jean-Luc and Bluey were the first to leave the car and walk towards the establishment's entrance. It was a small building with wooden boards decorating the outside black/gray walls and a patio for customers who wanted to drink coffee outside.

Jean-Luc gets ahead of Bluey to open the door and makes a move with his hand, signaling Bluey to get in first.

"Someone wants to be a gentleman," Bluey thought out loud as she got in.

"If I don't, I'm going to feel bad about myself," Says Jean-Luc, still holding the door open for Chilli

"Merci," Chilli thanked Jean-Luc in French as she got in.

With everyone in, Jean-Luc got his first view of the shop. The inner walls were covered in bricks, and every table and chair was made of a material that simulates wood, giving a comfy feeling to the few customers around at high morning hours. Over by the counter, where several desserts were displayed under the clear glass and the coffee machines were shining bright, was a young red German Pinscher with a board in his hand as if he is doing a checklist. For Jean-Luc and Chilli, It was an ordinary employee, but for Bluey, it wasn't the friend her mother referred earlier, but she knew him from school.

"Archer!"

Archer is startled by the voice of the Heeler. He looks where the blue Heeler is and speaks with a hint of innocence, "Oh, Bluey, what kind of miracle happened for you to be here?"

"Mom needs a coffee, and my friend wants to try it," Says Bluey as she approaches the counter where the register is. She slightly leans forward and asks, "Where is Winnie?"

"Winnie called out," Archer speaks as he leaves the board next to the coffee machines. "She got a call from S.S saying they need her and her father there because her classes got messed up."

"Ah, biscuits," Bluey curses the same way her father taught her.

"I know, right? Should have heard her earlier; she was as mad as a volcano," Archer says as he gets In front of the register to take the order. "But don't worry, I can still give you guys the family discount."

"Thanks, Archer. Mom?" Bluey turns to her mother, indicating her to order her coffee

"Can I get a cappuccino please?" Chilli ordered

"Something simple for the lady. I like the sound of that," Archer comments while pressing the screen of the register.

"Jean-Luc, Something else you wanna get?" Bluey turns to the dark blue labrador, who is still scanning every Inch of the menu on the wall

"Maybe…a lemonade? Yeah, lemonade sounds good."

"I'm more of a tea guy, but lemonade sounds good too," Archer also commented, inputting the order, but the accent of the Canadian caused Archer to freeze on the spot to then look at Bluey, put his elbow on the counter and point at Jean-Luc to ask "Who is him? first-time im seeing him around here."

"Oh, he is Jean-Luc. He flew from Canada to study in our school as an exchange student," Explained Bluey with a smile.

"So you must be part of the program Principal Thompson was talking about last year," Archer asks, still pointing at Jean-Luc.

"Yeah, probably…I got the chance to meet Tommy days ago," says Jean-Luc

"Oh, Awesome," says Archer, retracting her arm to his typical position to take orders. "I always thought he could be the kind of guy to buy five big skeletons and put them in the front yard Just because it sounds fun."

"Well, he does look and act like one," Jean-Luc says, shrugging his shoulders.

The Labrador's comment makes Bluey want to laugh, but her decency makes her hold it in, causing a cute single laugh to come out of her.

"Well, welcome to Southern Stars, mate," Says Archer to then focuses his attention on Bluey. "What about you, ms Blue?"

"Oh…can I get…a passion fruit tea, medium, please?" Ordered Bluey

"A passion fruit tea for the most passionate of the Glasshouse club," Archer commented while inputting her item. "Ok, total on the screen, I will get them A.S.A.P."

"Thanks," Chilli inserted her card into the reader and made sure to give him a tip.

---

*Mackenzie's room*

"BOOM"

"Good shots, Jack," Mackenzie congratulated as he formed a fist with his hand in celebration.

"VICTORY"

"TASK FORCE:3 REBELS:2"

"Great job, Guys, for this is what we were trained for," the announcer speaks for the last time in the match showing the victory screen

"Textbook match, guys, great job," celebrates Rusty while their game took them to the main menu

"That was a good game," Says Jack

"Yes it was," Mackenzie says as he reclines on his seat after a long match, but his moment of victory was cut short due to an incoming call from his cellphone.

"Huh?" Mackenzie recomposed himself on the chair and grabbed the cell phone to see the name "BINGO" on it. His curiosity got the better of him, and he answered the call, "Hello, Bingo?"

"WHAT ARE YOU DOING YOU IDI…!"

"I'm not doing this today." Mackenzie hands up the call, interrupting her, and immediately blocks Bingo…this wasn't the first time Bingo screamed at him over the phone.

"Was that Bingo?" Rusty asks over the call; he definitely heard her

"Ok, you better explain why Bingo screamed at you like that," Jack demanded

"It's nothing. In fact, I don't even know why she is mad at me. She knows we can talk it out like civilized dogs when she calms down," says Mackenzie, confused about what happened

"Yeah, But why would she scream at you," Jack asks again

"Wait…Is it today that Jean-Luc is hanging out with Bluey?" Rusty spoke as if a lightbulb turned on in his head

"Who is Jean-Luc?" Innocently asks again Jack

"Yeah, they left a while ago," Mackenzie responded with a bit of sadness in his voice.

"No fucking wonder Bingo screamed at you, you know how hard she worked…"

"I honestly don't wanna talk about any of this, guys." Mackenzie pulls the hand break on Rusty. "I just want to play some video games, spend some time with my best friends, and try to forget everything that happened these last couple of days…Ok, guys?"

"I don't even know what's happening, but…yeah, sure, we can do this," Jack communicates.

"..." Rusty took longer than expected to replay, but finally, he said, "Yeah, sure, buddy."

"Good." Mackenzie closed his eyes and relaxed as if the weight left his shoulders. " If Bingo calls any of you guys, just tell her I'm not available."

"Yeah, I got you, mate," Rusty says. "Let's go do another match."

"I agree, let's win another one," says Jack with confidence in his friends

---

*Back in Avril Cafe shop*

The German Pinscher didn't take long to prepare everything Bluey and company had ordered. Archer puts the drinks over the counter and shouts, "BLUEY, Your order is ready!"

Bluey and Chilli got up from their seats and walked to the counter to pick up their items. When Bluey grabbed her cup of tea and Jean-Luc's lemonade, she said, "Thanks, Archer; see you at school."

With her tea and lemonade in hand, she and her mother walked over to their table, where Jean-Luc was on his phone. Their table was near the plexiglass wall that showed the patio outside the cafe, allowing excellent illumination to enter the Cafe.

When both Heelers sit down on the table, Bluey is on Jean-Luc's right side, and Chilli is on his left. Chilli immediately takes the lid off her coffee and presents the cup to Jean-Luc. "Wanna give it a try?"

Jean-Luc doesn't respond but grabs the cup to take a quick sip. "Oh," he says, shaking his head. Reacting to the heat, he sends the drops to his stomach with difficulty. "Ummm, yeah, it tastes differently."

"Better than Canada? Chilli asks with one eyebrow raised

"Hard to tell," Jean-Luc responds before drinking his lemonade

During all this time, Bluey just looked at Jean-Luc with a silly look of comfort, a hand on her face and an elbow on the table. Looking at the same dog she played with when she was a child…right there in front of her.

"He is…so pretty," Bluey thought as this was the first time she could look determinately his face, his eyes, his fur, his nose, his smile, and the eye's iris looking at her.

"Everything ok?" Jean-Luc asks, looking at her,

"Oh," Bluey reacts. Shaking her head out of her daydream, "Just looking at you."

"How honest you are," Jean-Luc jokes, and he takes another sip from his lemonade.

"I just…" Bluey stops for a second to search for the words she wants to use. "Im having a hard time believing this is real. It is really you after all these years; you are here again."

Jean-Luc didn't respond right away. But Bluey notices who he moves his eyes around, probably to think of something to respond, and finally says, "Sometimes I have a hard time too, to believe everything thats been happening lately."

"Really?"

"Yeah" Jean-Luc talks, "I thought time and time again that I wish to be in Brisbane and see you again. And now that im here next to you, It's like… wow."

Bluey couldn't help but giggle, and when she was done, she happily said," How is Brisbane so far?"

"It's hot." Jean-Luc and Bluey laughed briefly before the Labrador continued, "But other than that, Im liking it. I feel like staying here for the school year is going to be easy."

"What about your family?" Chilli asks, "At some point, you are going to miss them."

"True, but im always trying to communicate with them," Jean-Luc says. "It's hard to coordinate the time difference. For example, right here, it's going to be noon, but in Canada, it's midnight, so if I wanna talk to someone, I have to do it either in the morning or late at night."

"Wow, thats a huge sacrifice for you and your family" Comments Chilli.

"I know, but they are really supporting me. This is something we prepared for a year."

"Hey, but you really speak English very well. The accent is there still, but Im amazed at how well you speak it,"

"I know, even sometimes, im surprised too" Jean-Luc says. "It's amazing how when you speak another language, a lot of doors open for you. Like now you got more freedom to interact with the world."

"Wow," Bluey reacts before asking, "So when did you start learning English?"

"Ohh" Jean-Luc reclines on his seat, shaken by the question. He looks at Bluey from the corner of his eyes and says, "I started to learn after I came back from the first trip to Brisbane."

"For real life!?" Bluey reacts amazed while her mother opened her eyes entirely

"Yeah…" Says Jean-Luc, as a light tone of red appears on his cheek. "It made me very sad that you couldn't understand me, so I started to learn from a book my father gave me. He actually speaks English too, and he helped me throughout all these years before I applied to be an exchange student at my school."

"Aww," Bluey is touched by the Labrador's anecdote and confesses to make things even. "Honestly… I started to learn French after you left."

"Really!?" Jean-Luc reacts amazed, with his eyes wide open

Bluey nods with a smile on her face and closes her eyes, and when she opens them, she says, "I remember the day I asked my parents for French lesson since they also speak French. But Dad mostly used French to annoy me, so I mostly took lessons from Mum."

"Really?" Jean-Luc reacts before looking at Chilli, who has a grim on her

"(I spend, a couple of months, in Paris, with my husband)," Chilli manages to say in her old rusty French, but it is enough to impress Jean-Luc, who slightly claps his hands.

"Bravo, c'est bon!, c'est bon!" Jean-Luc says with both tumps up, making Bluey laugh a little

With the French Canadian happy with what he heard, Chilli simulates a bow and says to herself, "I still got it."

Bluey took the opportunity to drink some of the tea she ordered. The sweet and acidic flavor of the passion fruit sinks her throat while it relaxes her. It reminds her why she loves going to the cafe with her friends after school, especially since her friend Winnie can give her and the girls discounts. When she drank enough, she asked Jean-Luc, "Are you Excited to start classes next week?"

Jean-Luc also finishes taking a sip before saying, "I can't believe im about to say this…but yeah im excited to go."

"Me too," Bluey says cheerfully. "With you going too, this is going be the best final year of high school."

"Final year?" Jean-Luc shook his head back and questioned her, "How old are you?"

"I'm seventeen," Bluey answered, but she recalled something Jean-Luc said back in the camping area. "Wait, you said you have sixteen, right?"

"Yeah, this is going to be my junior year," Jean-Luc says. "So when is your birthday?"

"In March. What about you?"

"December…I remember the first trip to Brisbane was three weeks after my birthday."

"Oh? So we were both Six when we met each other."

"Yeah" Says Jean-Luc as he takes another sip from his lemonade

"Ohhh I can't wait to treat you like a kid at school," says Bluey jokingly as she pats Jean-Luc's head as if he is a child

"Hey!" Jean-Luc grabs Bluey's wrist on top of him to make her stop. "I might be younger, but im more mature than you"

"How so?" Bluey challenged him as she got her face closer to the Labrador with her hand still in Jean-Luc's grip

"Im here in Brisbane…You are not in Quebec." Jean-Luc claps back at the Heeler with a victorious grin on his face.

"In my defense," Blueys spoke as she got closer to Jean-Luc's face to the point her nose was about to touch Jean-Luc's nose. "None one told me I could be an Exchange student, But I would have gone to Quebec. If I had known you lived there."

"You are a really honest and straightforward girl, you know that?" Jean-Luc says, half closing his eyes

"Would you like me to lie to your face then?" Bluey says, still maintaining her close distance

"That wouldn't be too nice, Ms Heeler," Jean-Luc says

"Says who? You got a big mouth for your age."

"At least I know where to put my words where it matters."

"You are not the dog you think you are, boy."

"You are right…im not. But for you, Im that dog."

"What are you guys doing?"

Out of nowhere, Chilli gets into the conversation with a confused tone and face. She heard the whole thing from the beginning while browsing on her cell phone. The voice of the red Heeler causes Bluey and Jean-Luc to move away from each other's faces with a noticeable red tone on their cheeks. It also makes Jean-Luc to let go of Bluey's wrist

Seeing what she caused to the two teenagers, Chilli says with an untrustworthy voice, "im going to the restroom. We will leave when I get out." She gets up off the table and remarks, "Whatever you guys did, don't do that again."

"Yes, mum." "Yes, Ms Heeler," Bluey and Jean-Luc say at the same time, embarrassed, while Chilli walks to the establishment's restroom.

Ashamed of the little act she did with Jean-Luc. She grabs her tea and keeps drinking while thinking, "What was that, Bluey? He is not Mackenzie. Behave yourself"

But while drinking, she felt Jean-Luc moving his chair closer to her. It was so close that she had no option but to look at him. But before she could say anything, Jean-Luc spoke first "You were missing something?"

Bluey got confused by what he meant. But her doubts disappear when he pulls out a familiar white paper.

"Hey!" Bluey reacts stunned. It was the note Jean-Luc had given her days ago at the camping area. She snatches it from his hands, opens it, and rereads it, letting Jean-Luc's handwriting make her feel happy for his wish to see her again. After reading it, she asked, "Where did you find it?"

"Ahhhhh" Jean-Luc puts a hand behind his head, unsure of what he would say but still managing to find those words, "I didn't find it. Mack did"

"Mackenzie?" Bluey reacts confused. Jean-Luc moves his hand away from the back of his head, and Bluey asks, "How?"

"I don't know." Jean-Luc's tone was unconfident, as if he didn't have enough trust to answer, but continued anyway, making Bluey raise her eyebrow mentally. "He showed it to me when I got back to his house."

"Awesome, I should thank him next time I see him," Bluey says without giving much thought to Jean-Luc's odd behavior. She looks at the note again, at the phone number, to be specific, and pulls out her cell phone to insert the numbers. She presses the call bottom and puts her cell phone on her ear to look at Jean-Luc with a smug face

It didn't take long for Jean-Luc's cellphone to start sounding off. He casually pulled out his cell phone, and while still looking at Bluey's face, he pressed the green button and put his cell phone on his ear. "Bonjour?"

"I missed you," Bluey says. The situation was so funny for the two dogs that they shared a couple of simple laughs.

When Bluey finished, she looked at her phone to hang up the call, but a notification appeared on her cell phone.

"Glasshouse Club: 1 message"

"I wonder who wants to chat today," Bluey thought and hummed in curiosity as she hung up the phone call and opened the notification. Bluey felt how Jean-Luc was still looking at her, curious about her reaction

Buddy: Okay, question: If I have two cups of water and I pour all the water from one cup to the other, does the water in the other cup get wetter?

"Are you kidding me, Buddy?" Bluey slaps herself in the face

"Yes"

"What?" Bluey snaps her head to Jean-Luc, who is looking at the screen of the phone

"Yes, it gets wetter," Jean-Luc answered unironically as he lightly nodded his head

"You are joking?" Bluey squints her eyes, dumbfounded by her friend's answer

"Probably …They are joking too," Jean-Luc points at Bluey's cell phone, indicating her to look. Bluey looked at the phone again to see something she wished she had more hands to slap herself with.

Joe: Yes

Adam: Yes

Dan: Yes

Indy: Yes

Sadie: Yes

Chloe: Yes

Dougie: Yes

Judo: Yes

Banjo: Yes

Chucky: Yes

Missy: Yes

Pretzel: Yes

Felix: Yes

After seeing all the messages, Bluey sighed, and when she let out the air through her mouth, She texts

Bluey: Yes

Coco: Yes, But if you are this philosophical, then I don't wanna know what would happen if you take one beer

"Oh boy." Bluey reacts in a low voice and puts her thumb and index finger in her eyes. "It looks like we are all sharing a single brain cell today," She thinks, removing her finger and focusing on the messages again.

"I know that feeling…" Jean-Luc says empathetically after seeing Bluey's reaction, "Sometimes with my friends, these dumb moments happen."

"Then you are not going to have trouble adapting," Says Bluey before looking at the new messages that came in

Dan: They are still too young to talk about this.

Chucky: We don't care, we aren't kids anymore

Banjo: This is our first year as sophomores at S.S

Banjo: Put some respect on our names

Pretzel: can't you guys see this is to protect your innocence?

Judo: When you guys can stay awake all night, then we will talk about more complicated stuff

Dougie: I stayed awake all night once. Am I allowed to talk about adult stuff then?

Joe: Hell no!

Buddy: Coco. No matter what happens, im not going to end up like Indy in Rusty's 18-party

Felix: OHHHHHHHHHHHH

Missy: Buddy let's not do this today

Indy: SON OF A BITCH

Indy: I TOLD YOU GUYS NOT TO MENTION IT AGAIN

Indy: IT WAS JUST ONE CAN, AND IT WAS THE WRONG CAN

Adam: The restroom and Dusty's room did not agree on that

Chloe: I counted more FYI

Coco: hypocrite…

Buddy: We learn from history not to repeat the same mistakes in the future

Sadie: The streets will never forget Indy XD

Indy: I hate you all :l

"Wow," that's all the Labrador said after the conversation unfolded. "All of you guys are going to Southern Stars?"

"Yes, we've all been friends for a long time. She'll probably get over it and make cookies for all of us, " Explained Bluey.

"Oh…Can I join the group?" Jean-Luc requested excitingly

"Well…you are also coming with us, so yeah, sure," Says Bluey.

"Hooray!" Jean-Luc celebrated with his arms extended while Bluey was adding Jean-Luc to the group

---

"THERE YOU GO"

"LETS GO"

Mackenzie and Jack celebrate another victory, this time a large-scale battle where chaos reigns in the match.

"VICTORY"

"TASK FORCE HAVE CAPTURE ALL SECTORS"

"Awesome job, guys. Drinks are on me tonight," the announcer said for the last time before sending Mackenzie, Jack, and Rusty to the main menu.

"That was a good match. Good job dealing with the Snipers, Mack," Congratulated Rusty.

"You guys don't know how satisfying it is to scratch them off," says Mackenzie as he stretches his tired muscles

"Hey guys!" Jack calls his friends over the call, "Check the main group."

Listening to his friend, Mackenzie grabs the cell phone again and immediately gets into the group chat to see

"Bluey added Jean-Luc into the chat"

Felix: Hey, who is the impostor?

"Oh boy," Mackenzie whispered at the sight of what had happened.

Bluey: Guys, this is Jean-Luc, the exchange student living with Mackenzie this school year

Jean-Luc: Bonjour

Notes:

References:

Not a lot actually. I have been trying to slow it down after the wall of text I put last chapter but

The 5 Skeleton thing is something the Spanish people would get and Archer…Some people might know him as Grimm or Wardog 4, or Razgriz 3 from Ace Combat 5

Okay guys, Feel free to write comments and leave Kudos if you guys like what are you reading and until next time

Chapter 9: Tu m'as manqué

11 years ago*

Quebec City, Canada*

It was another sunny winter day at the French-descended city's elementary school. A blue sky with scattered clouds was painting the Canadian sky, a day with perfect weather for the school children who were running and playing in the yard.

"(You'll never catch me, Thatcher!)" Louis shouts, turning briefly to mock the Chihuahua he was chasing.

"(Not for long fool)," Thatcher shouted, still running to catch the Husky.

"(HEY! DON'T RUN IN THE YARD)," Juneau shouted, keeping watch near the field in an attempt to watch over the two children.

While the children were enjoying recess on a bench near the school walls, Alice, with her blue headphones on, listened and tilted her body side to side to the rhythm of the music while chewing the sandwich that she had brought for breakfast.

As she watched her sister do her work, she could feel someone sitting beside her. When she finished chewing, she removed her headphones and looked to her right, where she found Jean-Luc holding a book.

"(Oh)," Alice reacts, confused to see the boy with a book since usually children do everything during recess except read ."(How can I help you, Jean-Luc?)"

"(Oh…umm…I wanted to… know something…)" Jean-Luc speaks without conformity, looking everywhere except at Alice, trying to find the confidence to speak;

"(Jean-Luc)" the sweet voice of the young adult makes Jean-Luc stop talking to look at Alice ."(I am your friend; you can trust me)"

After listening to Alice, Jean-Luc sighs to relax, and with everything on the tip of his tongue, he looks at her and asks,"(How did you manage to learn English? I've been trying to learn, but I don't understand anything)."

"(Oh, is this because of my presentation a few days ago? You still have a long way to go before you can be an exchange student. You have a lot of time to learn)" says Alice.

"(I know, but I want to learn now)," implores Jean-Luc, still holding the English book.

"Ummm," Alice says, putting a hand over her mouth to think until she grabs Jean-Luc's book. "(First of all, a secret between you and me)."

Jean-Luc nods quickly, ready to listen to Alice. But in an action he never expected, Alice gracefully tosses the book away from the bench and says, "(Books don't work)."

Jean-Luc makes a confused face before Alice continues speaking, "(Books are things of the past; it's very difficult to learn from them; you're in a world where you can learn a language everywhere, like the internet, for example)."

"(How can I learn on the internet, if my parents only let me on the computer for an hour)" Jean-Luc asked

"(Well, you also have the TV, the radio, and...)" Alice grabs her headphones from her neck and places them on the labrador's ears. With everything ready, she grabs the phone and presses play on the phone"(...Music)".

Jean-Luc's eyes pop out upon hearing a female voice and the pop and hip-hop beat of the song. The Labrador let himself go as he closed his eyes to let the song reach his eardrums.

Because

When the sun shines, we shine together

Told you I'll always be here forever

Said I'll always be your friend

Took an oath i'mma stick it out til the end

Now that It's raining a lot more now than ever

Know that we'll still have each other

You can stand under my umbrella

You can stand under my umbrella

Ella, ella, eh, eh, eh

Even though Jean-Luc didn't understand anything, he couldn't help but nod his head slightly, following the repetitions of the chorus. When the song reached the second verse, Jean-Luc decided he'd heard enough, took off his headphones, and said,"(It's a good song)"

"(I know, it's one of my favorites)" Alice said as she grabbed her headphones from the Labrador's hands. "(I sang it at my graduation party years ago)."

"(Wow, I didn't know you sing too)"

"(No, not really, they chose me because I had the prettiest voice but It wasn't all that bad either)" Alice explained

"(So, what does the song mean?)" Jean-Luc asked, tilting his head slightly

"(It's about friendship, that no matter how bad things get, there's always someone who will support you)"

"Wow, (and you learned English first before understanding the lyrics?)" Jean-Luc asked

"Nope…(I kept listening to the song even when I didn't understand anything; it was only after that I understood the lyrics…The point is…)" Alice reaches out her hand to grab Jean-Luc's shoulder. "(I was so passionate about the music I was listening to that I took my time learning what it meant, and from there, I learned little by little until studying from a book became easy)."

"(So…I have to find something I like…but in English)" Jean-Luc asked with his bright eyes filled with hope

"(Yes! It will take you time, but it is a good first step)" says Alice

RINGGGGGGGGGGGGGGG*

The school bell rings loudly, the signal for the children to return to their classrooms.

"(OK, EVERYONE, I WANT YOU ALL IN A LINE IN FRONT OF ME)," Juneau orders, standing in front of the school door. Little by little, the children form a line in front of their teacher.

Jean-Luc gets up from the bench, picks up his book and walks towards the line to return to the classroom, but is interrupted by Alice, who shouts, "(Remember, follow your heart, and you will learn easily)."

The labrador took his time turning towards the Eskimo and answered, "(Ok!)" before walking towards the line.

---

Night*

House of the Labradors*

"Suivez votre cœur et vous apprendrez facilement"

For Jean-Luc, it was easier said than done

All day long, that was all he thought about

At school and at home

Even when it was time to sleep…his mind wouldn't let go.

His eyes were open. He was staring into the night's darkness from his own bed, the ceiling of the family room, while his parents were in a separate bed.

"Follow your heart, and you will learn easily."

"(Dang it)," The Labrador curses in his head with his gaze still in the dark. "(How will I know what my heart wants? Hearts don't talk, right?)"

No matter how hard he tried in his head, his vision only saw darkness."(I don't understand. What did Alice mean at school? 'Follow my heart.' The more I think about it, the more confused I get.)"

"(Follow your heart? So should I let my heart go out and chase it?)" He kept thinking

"(What do I have to follow?)"

"(What did the heart mean?)"

"(What do I have to do?)"

"Ugh," Jean-Luc growls under his breath to not wake up his parents.

"(This is useless)" Jean-Luc thought with his eyes getting tired"(I will never learn English)"

Already exhausted, the Labrador closes his eyes, ready to sleep the whole night.

…

…

…

…

"Jean-Luc"

"Huh?" Jean-Luc woke up startled. His breathing was agitated, and his heart was racing a mile a minute. A girl's voice sounded in his head just before he fell into a deep sleep.

"(Who was it?)" Jean-Luc thought, hyperventilating. The room highlighted the sounds of his mouth breathing, but his parents were still in a deep sleep.

"(Jean-Luc, Jean-Luc)." The labrador repeated in his head the call of his name. It was a girl, he already knew that, but he couldn't shake the feeling that he had heard that voice before

"(Where have I heard that voice from)" He began to formulate in his mind. "(I feel like I've heard it before, not long ago. It's not from school, no, of course not, that voice wasn't the teacher's or Alice's, they're too old… I heard that voice before… but not around here… I heard it… in Brisbane… at the camping site)

"!" Jean-Luc's eyes open entirely, in an action that took away all the sleep from him when he concluded.

"Bluey…"

That voice was little Bluey's while they played at camp weeks ago.

"(It's been a while since we played Bluey)," Jean-Luc thinks as his eyes relax, and he slowly lies down again. "(I miss playing with you… I miss you… A lot… I wish I could see you again…I have never played with someone like that… even if you don't speak French. you still played with me… you were the only one who played with me on that trip. Everyone rejected me because I was different… but you?... you're amazing Bluey… I wish I had a friend like you…)

And with that last thought, Jean-Luc closes his eyes to sleep peacefully.

…

…

…

"(No…I have to do this…I have to learn…If I want to go back to Brisbane I need to do this…I don't want to lose another friendship by speaking differently)"

Jean-Luc forces his eyes open and gets out of bed. The dim light from the street reached the room, but it was enough for Jean-Luc to get out of bed and stroll out of the room.

When the Labrador was outside, he slowly closed the door so his parents wouldn't notice what he was doing and walked into the living room.

Jean-Luc's family home was simple and humble, with a few expensive items for the average commoner. The wood-finished house had only one floor and three bedrooms, a living room, a kitchen, a garage, and two bathrooms. All of this was located overlooking the St Lawrence River. Even when there was distance between the house and the river, Jean-Luc and his family could still smell the river.

When the Labrador arrived and turned on the lights in the living room, Jean-Luc found his backpack on the table to eat. Without wasting a second, Jean-Luc walked to the table, opened his backpack, and took out the English book his father had given him before the trip to Brisbane.

And when Jean-Luc opened the book, even though he is sleepy, he started reading.

He didn't know it then.

But he was following his heart.

---

11 years later*

In the Glasshouse Club group chat*

Bluey: Guys, this is Jean-Luc, the exchange student who is going to live with Mackenzie this school year

Jean-Luc: Bonjour

Coco: Hi Jean-Luc, welcome!

Coco: Wait, what about Mack?

Sadie: Wasn't Mack going to introduce him?

Joe: Hi Jean-Luc

Adam: Hi Jean-Luc

Dan: Hi Jean-Luc

Dougie: Welcome to Australia, mate

Banjo: Bonjour France, Baguette, Paris, Eiffel Tower, Napoleon, white flag

Felix: Ignore him. He's a certified idiot

Banjo: Hey!

Chucky: Says idiot number 2

Chucky: Welcome to the group, Jean-Luc

Felix: Hey!

Felix: 1 vs 1 in Shipment only snipers, Chucky

Chucky: Come on, no balls

Missy: Hi Jean-Luc!

Jean-Luc: Guys, I'm glad for this welcome, but I'm from Canada, not France

Banjo: What? Don't start with the lies Juan-Lucas.

Pretzel: Hi Jean-Luc, nice to meet you, but don't they speak English in Canada?

Adam: Yes, don't they speak English there?

Jean-Luc: In Quebec we speak French

Buddy: Quebec is a province of Canada, the only one in the country where the majority of the population speaks French

Chloe: Hi Jean-Luc! Welcome to Australia

Chloe: And thanks for the tip Buddy

Indy: Hey, hi, Jean-Luc

Indy: Did you happen to see the previous messages?

Jean-Luc: Yes

Bluey: Yes, he was right next to me

Indy: Oh, how embarrassing. I'm not usually like that

Jean-Luc: Don't worry. I still think you're a good person to spend time with

Rusty: Hey, hi, Jean-Luc. Welcome to Australia

Rusty: Sweetie, don't worry about my party, it was fun anyway.

Rusty: And Buddy, a little respect for the lady, please

Buddy: Sorry Rusty

Jack: Welcome to Brisbane, Jean-Luc!

Jack: And yes, it was still fun despite the mess you made

Indy: Thanks guys

Sadie: Hey, since you guys showed up

Sadie: I got a text from Bingo. She wants to talk to Mack Immediately

Jack: Mack isn't playing video games with us

Rusty: JACK!

Bluey: Wait, why does Bingo want to talk to Mackenzie?

Sadie: Don't ask me, I have no idea either

Jack: Bingo is upset with Mack for some reason

Rusty: Soldier!

Bluey: Bingo upset with Mackenzie and we've just returned from camping?

Bluey: What happened?

Dogie: I don't know, you know how she is; sometimes she has a great time with him. Other times she wants to put him 6 feet under

Rusty: Hey Jean-Luc, how's it going with you living with Mack?

Jean-Luc: It's Good, he's been showing me around the city these past few days. Brisbane is more beautiful than I thought.

Rusty: Glad to hear it, Mack is a great friend

Jean-Luc: Yeah, I noticed

Bluey: Now it's my turn to show him around. We're on our way to the city center.

Coco: Really? Why is it your turn to spend time with him?

Chloe: Why?

Sadie: Yeah, why are you hanging out with Jean-Luc?

Bluey: It's a long story

Bluey: We're arriving, I'll talk to you later

Jean-Luc: Yes, again, thank you very much for the welcome

---

"(What an interesting group)," thought Jean-Luc as he turned off his phone just as Chilli parked the car next to the sidewalk of the busy city crowded with dogs walking with the bright sun above, without a cloud on the horizon.

Downtown Brisbane*

When Chilli unlocked the doors, Bluey and Jean-Luc quickly exited the vehicle. With both feet on the pavement, Chilli shouted, "Hey!" causing Bluey to turn around. "You can only spend a hundred dollars on the card, and for the love of my parents, I don't want to pick you up at the police station."

"At some point, I'll have to live my life like you did with Aunt Frisky and Aunt Trixie," Bluey jokes, holding the vehicle door while Jean-Luc walks towards the safety of the sidewalk.

"Trust me, you're already living it; see you later, guys," says Chilli, giving Bluey the hint to close the door.

"See you later, Mum," says Bluey, closing the door, allowing Chilli to drive off and reemerge into the street to return home.

When Chili has gone far enough, Jean-Luc looks at the giant buildings with shiny windows that are around him and says, "So… We're in the center of the city."

"Correct"

"So…what do we do now?" Jean-Luc asks, confused, looking at Bluey

Bluey giggles, and she says, "Follow me," before walking down the wide corridor between two buildings, which Jean-Luc also does.

While Jean-Luc was walking right with Bluey, a familiar smell reached his nose…a scent he usually smells in his Canadian home…A scent of water…the scent of a river. At the same time he realizes what he smells. Jean-Luc stops when he has some stairs at his feet to find himself in front of him, the Brisbane River and the Story Bridge in the background.

"Jean-Luc," Bluey says, catching Jean-Luc's attention down the steps. "Come on, the Ferry will soon arrive."

"Ferry?" Jean-Luc wondered. It was there that he realized a pier stuck out into the river like a port.

"Do ferries make you seasick?" Bluey asks mockingly, looking at Jean-Luc behind her

"No," Jean-Luc shakes his head. "I'm not that soft."

"Glad to know," Bluey says, moving her arm back and forth, indicating Jean-Luc to follow her. "Let's go"

Jean-Luc obeys and starts to walk down the stairs towards the ferry platform. Just before entering, Bluey takes out a card from her hip and easily passes it through a scanner that lights up green. "Thanks, Dad," Bluey talks to herself while she and Jean-Luc walk freely toward the boarding area.

Bluey and Jean-Luc were standing with other canines on the boarding platform, where the ferry was sailing slowly towards them. While waiting, Jean-Luc asked again," So, where are we going?"

"To a park, happy?" Bluey answers, looking at the ferry, although Jean-Luc could notice that she responded, pretending to be annoyed

"Well, yes, I am happy," Jean-Luc answers sarcastically. "I can't handle the nerves every time a blue Australian Heeler takes me to places I don't know."

"Did you practice that? " Bluey answers, looking sideways at the Labrador

"Once, in a mirror and with my best friend," jokes Jean-Luc

"I feel bad for your friend," jokes Bluey, still keeping that low tone of voice

"I made up for him with a piece of pizza and a movie ticket."

"You're cruel, Jean-Luc," says Bluey at the same time that the ferry arrives at the platform

"Cruel but fair," answers Jean-Luc as the ferry stops next to the boarding area

"No, just cruel," Bluey says the last word when the ferry opens the doors to let Jean-Luc, Bluey, and the rest of the passengers get on

---

Mackenzie's room*

"He seems like a nice guy," says Jack, still on the call from 'Disclaw' with Mackenzie and Rusty

"Well, he's not," protests Mackenzie."He can be manipulative if you let him.

"Ah," Jack starts talking sarcastically. "The typical 'I'm a good person to everyone on the surface, but a piece of shit in the shadows' Perfect, what we needed… Huh"

"Is Mack playing with you?"Mackenzie could hear a distant female voice coming from Jack's microphone,

"No," Jack answers

"Liar, give me that," The voice of a teenager says

"HEY!" In the background, sounds of struggle and growls can be heard until a female voice speaks clearly, "Mack?"

"Oh," Mackenzie's eyebrows jump. It was Lulu, Jack's 14-year-old sister. Mackenzie doesn't hesitate to answer, "Hi Lulu, how are you."

"Not very well, asshole," Lulu says mercilessly. "Bingo called annoyed; why the hell did you block her!?"

"Oh, that" Mackenzie relaxed in his chair, raised his hands slightly, and explains, "She knows very well that I'm not going to talk to her if she loses her screws, so I'm going to wait, calmly, for her to calm down, and then I'll talk to her."

"She doesn't want to wait," Lulu keeps insisting. "She wants to talk to you NOW."

"Jack was kicked off the call."

"Eh," Mackenzie reacts, confused by the electronic voice of "Disclaw."

"Knowing him," Rusty speaks," he would have proposed this sacrifice."

"Yes, a minute of silence for Private Jack," Mackenzie suggests, staying silent to honor the memory of the Jack Terrier.

…

…

…

"Do you want to play another Mack?"

"Let's go"

---

Brisbane Center*

Brisbane River*

Once inside the Ferry, the two teenagers sit on the white plastic seats inside the boat, and when they are both relaxed, Bluey is the first to speak, "So… How did it go with Mackenzie these days?"

"It went well," Jean-Luc answered, even though he was still in the shadow of what happened to him after the trip to the camp. "I did what you told me in the camp to give him space if necessary, but he took me to many places in Brisbane."

"Which ones?" Bluey asks curiously

"The observatory, the beaches north of Brisbane, the botanical garden, the museums, the warship Diamantina, the shops in the city center, and he even took me to the Brisbane sign."

"It seems that Mackenzie did his best, but I'm going to take you to a place that I probably haven't taken you," Bluey said with self-confidence.

"I hope so," Jean-Luc said as the ferry finally exited the dock to sail down the river. But a doubt came to his mind. A doubt about Mackenzie's name. "Hey, Bluey, why do you always refer to Mack as Mackenzie?"

"Huh? Because Mackenzie is his real name," Bluey replied without importance.

"I know, but Mack said that his best friends call him "Mack," why don't you?"

"I never liked calling him Mack," Bluey began to explain. "When I met him in elementary school, he was always called Mackenzie. When we went to Southern Stars, he wanted to change his name to "Mack" because he was getting teased a lot about his name. He may have convinced all my friends to call him Mack, including my sister, but not me. And when he told me again to call him Mack, I didn't want to, and I said, "You will always be Mackenzie to me," I have a man's name, and I was teased for it, but I'm not going to go to the extreme and change my name to Christine."

"Yes, Christine doesn't sound very good," Jean-Luc comments, squeezing his eye with his cheek. "The blue fur doesn't help."

"That's why I embrace my name with pride, And nothing will change that fact. Over time, Mackenzie accepted that not everyone can call him what he wants, so he just limited himself to having his best friends call him Mack."

"I'm glad to know that you two are okay with your names," Jean-Luc comments, relieved.

"Why?" Bluey looks at him, barely moving her head so that her gaze connects with Jean-Luc's face; perhaps his comment seemed strange to her

"Because one of my friends also changed his name," Jean-Luc says. "But unlike you guys, he is determined that everyone calls him what he wants."

"Wow… By the way, what is his name?"

"His parents named him Theodore, but he changed his name to Thatcher."

"Oh… what breed is he?"

"Chihuahua"

"Oh"

…

…

…

"Oh," Bluey is surprised. With her eyes wide open, she looks at Jean-Luc. "No wonder he changed his name. I would hate to be a Chihuahua named Theodore."

"Yeah…honestly, me too, "Jean-Luc answers, ending the small conversation as the ferry sailed down the river toward the destination that Bluey chose

---

Mackenzie's room*

"Huh?"

"But what?"

"DEFEAT"

"TASK FORCE:2 MILITIA:3"

"Shame on you, retreat," the announcer speaks with sadness before the game sends Mackenzie and Rusty to the main menu.

"What happened?" Mackenzie asks, defeated, with a hand over his eyes

"I don't know," Rusty speaks in a defeated, confused, and sad voice. "I thought…I had it…it was just a mistake. It won't happen again."

Suddenly, the sound of the hinges of a door sounds off in Mackenzie's headphones, followed by another female voice, "Rusty, I need those headphones."

"Not now, Dusty. I'm busy playing alone."

"Liar! Give me that!"

"Dusty, leave me alone!"

"Never!"

"Ugh"

"GIVE ME THAT!"

Despite Rusty's valiant effort to cover for him, Mackenzie hears the familiar sounds of scuffling and growling until Rusty's 14-year-old sister, Dusty, speaks through the earpiece, "Mack! Talk to Bingo."

"Nope," Mackenzie says as he looks away from the screen like a sassy girl.

"Im serious!"

"Rusty was kicked off the call."

Following his loyalty to the red kelpie, Mackenzie kicks Rusty off the call. After a loss in the game and Rusty's fall to Dusty, Mackneize let himself fall back into his chair, letting gravity take him lower and lower without any resistance and murmurs. "What the fuck does Bingo want? Reminding me how happy Jean-Luc and Bluey look? I don't need this today."

"Jack joined the call," the electronic voice of the disclaw sounds, making Mackenzie compose himself in the chair.

"Im back…" Jack announces excitedly, "What happened?"

"We lost Rusty," Mackenzie says. "Bingo called Dusty too, and I had to sacrifice him."

"Ouch, he would have suggested it anyway," Jack says with condolences in his voice. "A minute of silence for the sergeant."

…

…

…

"Do you want to play invasion, Jack?"

"Yes! I want to blow up some tanks."

---

Downtown Brisbane*

After a short trip down the river, the ferry speakers announce with a male voice.

"All passengers, we have arrived at Captain Burke Park."

"We are here," Bluey warns as she stands up to exit the boat, with Jean-Luc behind her, and heads toward the platform.

After jumping from the ferry to the platform and crossing the bridge to the mainland, Jean-Luc sees the south side of the Story Bridge. To the left of the entrance to the ferry platform is a park, and to the right are brightly colored apartments.

"I will never get used to these views," says Jean-Luc in amazement

"Huh," Bluey mutters with both hands on her hips, "The ice cream cart isn't here."

"Quoi?" He reacts confused, looking at Bluey

"Normally, there is an ice cream cart in this park," Bluey explains, confused, still looking at the park for the cart.

"So we took a ferry to this park just for ice cream?" Jean-Luc asked frowning

"Those ice creams are the best I've ever had, so yes, I took a ferry for some ice cream."

"Well, you're the tour guide here." Jean-Luc shrugs his shoulders.

"Look," Bluey points to an empty bench beside a children's park. "We can sit there in the meantime. I'm sure the cart will arrive soon."

"Good idea," Jean-Luc agrees with the Heeler, and the two walk across the grass towards the empty bench. There wasn't much going on in the park; just a few kids were playing on the playground, a family of Koolies having a birthday party in a pavilion, and a couple of Australian shepherds having a picnic.

Bluey and Jean-Luc sit down on the bench where they can see if the ice cream cart has arrived. Bluey then asks, "So…what have you been doing these last ten years?"

"Uff," Jean-Luc let his body fall backward, hitting the back of the bench before answering, "Not much, I guess. I graduated from elementary school, went to high school afterwards. I traveled all over Canada, my family is still my dear family, and I went through endless silly things with my friends during that time. I guess the only important thing was learning English, joining the school hockey team, and being an exchange student."

"Hockey?" Bluey looks at Jean-Luc with a smug face. "I never saw you as a hockey player when you went to camp."

"Because I wasn't that big of a fan back then. It was after that I managed to get an interest in the game," Jean-Luc answers.

"Ah, I see. You grew up."

Jean-Luc tilts his head from side to side "Yes."

"It's okay; I know how you feel."

"Really? What do you mean?"

"Months after the trip to camp, my parents put me in some Karate classes."

"Karate?" Jean-Luc repeats, amazed, with his eyes wide open. He speaks simultaneously as he improvises some karate movements with his open palms." So you can do a flying kick like that movie?"

"Pff, that's Hollywood…" Bluey shakes her head, rolling her eyes. "...Although yes, I can do a flying kick."

"Ohh, that's amazing. So, what belt do you have? " Jean-Luc asks

"Brown"

"Ahhhh, I only know Black and White"

"Brown is the level before Black."

"I mean… You've been doing this for a while."

Bluey nods proudly. "Yes, since I was six years old"

"Wow, and when are you going to be promoted to black belt?"

"My teacher said in December, beginning of December."

"Karate masters aren't called sensei? "Jean-Luc asks with a raised eyebrow

"Yes, but in my dojo, he wants to be called master. You still have a lot to learn, little grasshopper" Bluey says, giving Jean-Luc a friendly nudge.

"Hahahaha, So, besides being in karate classes… What else did you do in all this time?" Jean-Luc asks

"Being a girl," Bluey starts talking," I grew up, I learned, I traveled to many places, and I am still friends with my friends from elementary school."

"You mean the group?...Glasshouse?"

"Yes! We've been together for over ten years now," Bluey says with a smile.

"It sounds incredible. I've known my two best friends since elementary school, too. But a group that big, considering that elementary classes usually separate, is incredible."

"I know, I even surprised myself sometimes. If it weren't for Tommy, we would have separated to different schools."

"Tommy? Principal Thompson?" Jean-Luc repeats

"Tommy and us… we've known each other for a long time. He visited us one day at our elementary school when I was 12 years old. When we had to choose where to study, he visited us right on the day of the parent-teacher meeting. He told us all about how…" Bluey waves her hands and says sarcastically, "... 'impressive and amazing his school is.' After a meeting with my friends, we all decided to go to Southern Stars."

"Sounds amazing. I guess it was easy with so many friends."

"It wasn't," Bluey answers immediately. "It was hard. No one thought it would be this hard…"

"How so?"

"A lot of things happened: classes were difficult, making friends there was complicated, many made fun of us for coming from a 'different' school, there were…" Bluey whispers the following "...a lot of fights. We all wanted to do other things, and over time, we drifted apart…" Bluey sadly told her story, which Jean-Luc listened to with interest and empathy "... It was during the last week of our first year that we met by chance in a classroom, and we… let everything out from our chests."

"Many…" Bluey continued, "... No, we all confessed that life was difficult apart. We missed each other a lot. It was there that we made an oath. From that day on, we will all be together until the end."

"How inspiring," Jean-Luc says humbly. "Mack told me a little about you guys. 'Even if we are not on the same page, we end the day laughing or sharing ice cream'"

"Did he say that? Although he is right, we all know each other as brothers…" Bluey's voice lowers. She glances out of the corner of her eye at the outside of the park and shouts excitedly, "HEY, ICE CREAM!"

Bluey points to a small pink cart with a chocolate ice cream cone print on the umbrella, "Let's go, Jean-Luc," Bluey gets up to run toward the cart.

Bluey's reaction was so fast that Jean-Luc spoke in French, "Hey, attendez-moi." before standing up and following Bluey.

---

"Where is… Wow"

"Arghhhh"

"DEFEAT"

"Taskforce: 1 Rebels: 3"

"How the hell did I not hear that?" Jack wandered through the call

"Rusty joined the call" Disclaw announces

"Hey guys, Dusty is already dealt with," Rusty announces

"Hooray," Mackenzie says without enthusiasm." Do you want to keep playing?"

"Let's go," Rusty and Jack say at the same time.

---

After running through the grass, Bluey slows down and says as she advances towards the cart with the ice cream dog on his knees on the other side, "Hey! I'm glad…" Suddenly, a girl, a light blue and white teenage Heeler in an ice cream woman's uniform, stands up upon hearing Bluey's voice. But for Bluey, the excitement in her voice faded as she recognized who it was and finished what she wanted to say in a low voice:"… seeing you here…"

When the light blue Heeler's gaze lands on Bluey, the girl frowns and murmurs menacingly, "You…"

Bluey doesn't waste time repeating the reaction "You…"

"Ok, here I am," Jean-Luc notified, coming up behind Bluey and innocently asking upon seeing the display with the ice creams on top of the cart, "What ice creams do they have?"

…

…

…

"Bluey?" The Labrador asks, looking bewildered at Bluey, whose gaze remained fixed on the other Heeler in an environment where only the growls of the two could be heard, but when Jean-Luc looks down, he notices how Bluey's hand is forming a fist… ready for a fight

In an attempt to de-escalate the situation, which was becoming more intense by the second, Jean-Luc grabbed Bluey's wrist and said worriedly, "Bluey, let's get out of here," but Bluey kept looking at the other Heeler.

"Bluey, seriously, she's not worth it." Between Jean-Luc's concern, there were traces of panic in his voice, and with that same panic and with his hand on her wrist, he pushes Bluey with his body to get away from the cart, but even with that, Bluey kept looking at the girl, every so often he looked back to make sure that the heeler was still next to the cart, fortunately for him, the Heeler only looked at Bluey with her eyes full of hate, eyes that manage to make Jean-Luc's fur shudder

When Jean-Luc manages to push Bluey far enough, Bluey, with her free hand points at her own eyes with her index and middle fingers and then points with the same fingers at the Heeler, the international sign for 'I'll be watching you.' Jean-Luc looks back to see the Heeler one last time, curious about the ice cream vendor's reaction, but the Heeler responds forcefully, showing her middle finger to Bluey

"(These two have a history)," Jean-Luc thought, still pushing Bluey toward the Brisbane River.

When the two are far enough away that the Heeler can't see them, Bluey turns to walk straight and places her hands over her face, embarrassed.

"What was that, Bluey?" Questions Jean-Luc stunned

"Nothing, nothing happened…" Bluey angrily says, then mutters angrily and sadly, "…Does she really have to ruin my day like this?"

"Hey," Jean-Luc moves ahead of Bluey to be before her. "It doesn't matter; I'm having a lot of fun with you, Bluey."

"I know, but I did want to share an ice cream with you," Bluey answers sadly as if she had tears in her throat.

"I'm not interested in ice cream. I just want to spend the day with you," Jean-Luc answers without thinking.

"(Wait…)" Jean-Luc thinks "(...That sounds romantic)"

"I'm glad to hear that," Bluey says, passing a hand over her eyes to wipe her tears. "It's just that…I'm sorry."

"About what?"

"What happened… We…We don't get along very well at school,"

"I noticed it. She showed you the middle finger."

"I don't care, but do you realize how low she can go?" Bluey says in an annoyed tone

Jean-Luc nods, and Bluey continues, "I would have shown her the middle finger too, but at least I'm not a dirty, crazy girl like her."

"Wow," Jean-Luc reacts, pretending to be surprised, and jokes, "Watch your language, girl."

"Eh, I hate her that much," Bluey reveals in a low, angry voice.

Jean-Luc thinks for a few seconds before finally saying to Bluey "You know what…I'm going to make your life easier. I'm not going to ask you what your story is with her. You'll tell me when you're ready."

"It's obvious that you're part French," Bluey says, attempting to sound normal. Jean-Luc's words did magic with her "You behave like a gentleman."

"You know how I feel about being compared to a Frenchman," Jean-Luc says, pointing at Bluey in a friendly way. "But I'll let it go this time."

"Oh vraiment?" Bluey asks in French

"Seriously," Jean-Luc answers in English, nodding his head slightly. "Hey, do you want to sit on one of those benches overlooking the river?"

"I'd love to," Bluey says with a sparkle in her eyes before walking with Jean-Luc toward an empty bench.

---

"DEFEAT"

"TASK FORCE FAILED TO CAPTURE THE SECTORS"

"WHAT?" Jack shouts

"That wasn't fun," Mackenzie says, disappointed with his eyes covered with his fingers. When he slightly moves his hand from his eyes, he manages to see his phone with notifications of

MISSED CALL FROM INDY

MISSED CALL FROM POMPOM

MISSED CALL FROM CHLOE

MISSED CALL FROM ADAM

MISSED CALL FROM WINTON

MISSED CALL FROM LUCKY

MISSED CALL FROM SADIE

"What the hell is wrong with you, Bingo?" the Border Collie whispers, annoyed seeing the amount of calls he didn't see coming while playing.

"Another one?" Rusty asks on the call, "I'd like to win one before finishing."

"Sure," Makenzie gets up and grabs the mouse and keyboard. "Let's go for that victory."

---

"I have a question," Jean-Luc says, turning his head towards Bluey, sitting beside him.

"Me too," Bluey says, also turning her head to look at the Labrador.

"I was wondering…" The two teenagers speak at the same time but stop when they hear the voice of the other

"Your first…"

"No, your first…"

"I was wondering if…"

"Ugh…"

"Rock, paper, scissors?" Bluey suggests showing his fist to Jean-Luc

"D'accord" Jean-Luc agrees, showing his fist to Bluey.

"Ok," Bluey prepares by placing her other hand under her fist and begins.

"Rock, Paper, Scissors SHOOT"

Bluey shows scissors, and Jean-Luc shows paper. Bluey won

"Hooray!" Bluey celebrates with her arms outstretched

"Aww," Jean-Luc expresses defeat to compose himself and say," Ok, your first."

Bluey inhales air and then asks, "I wanna know more about your hockey games."

"Somebody interested?" Jean-Luc jokes with a smug smile

"I'm a very curious girl, okay? I was wondering cuz my sister Bingo also plays hockey."

"Oh yes, I remember… but Bingo said she plays field hockey, not ice hockey."

"And what is the difference?" Bluey asks, shrugging her arms

"Well, to start with, ice hockey is played on an ice rink, a very small rink compared to a hockey field. There are fewer players: a goalie, two defenders, two wingers, and a center. "The protagonist," as we would like to call him, There are endless rules, but it is a very fast and brutal sport."

"I see…" Bluey has her eyes half closed, gathering all the information Jean-Luc told her. "It's a very different game than what my sister plays."

"I know, it's a very different sport with a very similar base."

"Yes, I understand, but there's a version of hockey that's played without ice, right?" Bluey asks

"Yes, in places where there's not much ice, the rules are the same, but you use normal roller skates."

"So my sister practices both," Bluey reveals, surprised. "I remember that she went to play hockey, but she also took roller skates with her. I always wondered why."

"Really? I could play with her one of these days," Jean-Luc says excitedly with his tail moving to then pretends to have a hockey stick in both hands and says, "I can show you my moves with the stick."

"That sounds amazing," Bluey says excitedly. "You should spend time with her. After all, she never met you at the camp."

Jean-Luc drops the act and asks, "Yeah, what happened to her in those days?"

"If I remember correctly," Bluey says, putting her finger in her mouth to think, "she preferred to be stinky and spend time with my family."

"Auck," Jean-Luc reacts disgusted.

"She was four back then," Bluey defends her sister. "Now she is a fairly independent teenager."

"Ah, that makes sense."

"Anyway, what else can you tell me about Hockey?" Bluey asks with curious eyes

"Ohhhhh," Jean-Luc leans back, feeling the wave of nostalgia that hit his body. "Let me tell you about 'The Guardians of Tyler Allard High School'"

"We have all day, Jean-Luc." Bluey leans towards Jean-Luc, ready to listen to the Labrador's adventures on the hockey rinks.

---

"What is this shit" Rusty complains on the call

"I swear, that bastard used wallhacks," Jack complains in denial

"Shit…" Mackenzie mutters, annoyed, as he watches another defeat screen on his monitor

Ting*

"!" Mackenzie turns his head towards his phone

MESSAGE FROM HONEY

"Seriously, Bingo!" Mackenzie shouts when he grabs his phone and sees the notification with his eyes open

"What happened?" Jack asks. Mackenzie must have left the microphone on.

"I think Bingo texted Honey to convince me to talk to her."

"What!?" Jack blurts

"Is she crazy!?" Rusty expresses annoyance. "Is she seriously trying to get Honey into all this?"

"Thats just low, even for her!" Jack expresses annoyance, too

"I'm going to check the message. I don't think she went that far," Mackenzie warns as he unlocks his phone and opens the message.

Honey: Hi Mack, I'm going to bake cookies with my parents tonight. If you want I can send you some for you and your family

"Oh," Mackenzie reacts, relieved, and writes back.

Mackenzie: Yes, I would like to. I love the way your mother prepares them.

Honey: I know, that's why I'm going to try to follow her recipe

Mackenzie: Good luck!

Honey: Thanks Mack

"Phew." Mackenzie relaxes in relief, letting his body hit the back of his chair. "False alarm, Bingo didn't text Honey."

"Uff." The two relieved teenagers could be heard on the call.

"Come on, we still have to win one," Rusty breathes before playing another game.

---

"This is McKnight, another Canadian Eskimo and the main Goalie of the Guardians. Besides my friends, he was the one I got along well on the team."

Jean-Luc said while showing a selfie of him and McKnight to Bluey with his phone, who was attentive to what the Labrador was saying.

"Too bad he graduated last year, but I'm sure I'll see him in the professional league," Jean-Luc says while sliding to the next photo. "HEY, look at this ugly perdant"

The Labrador shows him a photo of Louis at school with a surprised face as if he didn't expect Jean-Luc to take a picture of him "This is Louis, my best friend, center, and captain of the Guardians. He was the one who convinced me to join the team."

"Wow, but he looks good," Bluey says, still looking at the photo.

"What?" Jean-Luc looks at her strangely as if she had just said the unthinkable

"I mean, I'm not saying I want to go out with him, but he looks handsome enough to have a girlfriend," Bluey explains with her palms slightly raised.

"There's a reason why I say he's ugly," Jean-Luc says with his eyes half-closed at her

"Oh, I see," Bluey agrees as Jean-Luc moves on to the next photo.

"And this one…" Jean-Luc says, pointing at Thatcher, who was posing for Jean-Luc, tipping a yellow cap like a fedora in the locker room. "...It's Thatcher, my second best friend, Winger and designated Duelist of the Guardians. You put him in front of the opposing goalie, and, He, will, not, miss. I took this photo after he scored three in the game; as tradition, the fans started throwing caps on the rink, and well, he grabbed one for himself."

"Well, I can see that he has a Theodore face" Bluey says, squeezing her eye with her cheek.

"And this one…" Jean-Luc brings his phone closer to his face and moves on to the next photo, but upon seeing the next image, Jean-Luc remains silent to look at the picture in detail

"What happened?" Bluey asks when she notices Jean-Luc's reaction

"I saved a lot of photos last season…" Jean-Luc starts talking, still looking at the photo. "We won, lost, traveled, cried, and celebrated as a team. But this photo… " Jean-Luc finally moves his hand to show the photo to Bluey, "Tells the story of the 20 Guardians of Quebec City."

The photo showed a lone, stocky player in a white helmet on an ice rink, with his back to the camera and a hockey stick in his right hand. A light was projected on him as he looked up at the dimly lit stands of a large stadium packed with spectators, their phones up and flashlights on, simulating fireflies in the night. The camera was pointed perfectly at the red back with white and blue sleeves of the jersey, which had the name and numbers big and white.

"JEAN-LUC"

"16"

"I don't know who took this photo," says Jean-Luc, "But it's my favorite. It reminds me of the odyssey we went through to get to the final in Montreal."

"Final?" Bluey asks with a raised eyebrow. "Like… the grand final?

"Yes," Jean-Luc says, although unknowingly, he let go a drop of sadness in his voice. "It was the final for the national championship against the Comets of North Montreal."

"And you won? "Bluey asks the obvious with hopeful eyes, to hear Jean-Luc say yes

"No," Jean-Luc disappoints Bluey. "We lost in the shootout."

"Aww." Bluey lets her shoulders slump in sorrow, but raises them up to ask, "And who is that, the one in the photo?"

Jean-Luc glances at Bluey and immediately understands what she is referring to. With ego on his tongue, the Labrador begins to explain, "He is Jean-Luc, a handsome Labrador, defender and designated sharpshooter for the Guardians, the best player in the league with the most powerful slap shot in the world, the worst nightmare of the Goalies."

"Bah," Bluey denies, making a rejection movement with her hand and then jokes, "Lower your ego. You're just telling lies."

"But it's true," Jean-Luc lies on the verge of laughter to continue the joke. "All that is true"

"No, no," Bluey shakes her head, still keeping the joking tone, "I can hear the pats on your own shoulder, Jean-Luc."

"At least of all the things I said, I'm going to insist that I'm handsome," says Jean-Luc, placing a hand where his heart is. "Let me sleep with that,"

"You had a girlfriend then?" Bluey says quickly

"!" both dogs' eyes open immediately at what the blue Heeler said.

"(She must have said it without thinking)" Jean-Luc thinks

Before Jean-Luc said anything, Bluey answered first with a light red on her cheeks, "I mean… since you said that your friend never had a girlfriend because he is 'ugly.' I was wondering if you had a girlfriend since you think you're handsome."

"..." Jean-Luc remains frozen, looking at Bluey…Thinking about…that girl…but after a few seconds, he looks towards the river before him and confesses, "It's… Complicated"

"What do you mean?" Bluey asks confused

"I had something with this girl," Jean-Luc says, looking at the river. "We spent time together, but it never felt like a relationship. She just wanted to spend time with me because I had good grades."

"Ow…I'm sorry."

"Don't be sorry, something like that had to happen, Right? How was it said?" Jean-Luc snaps his fingers, trying to think until he finally says "développement du personnage"

"Ah, I know," Bluey says, embarrassed, probably for making Jean-Luc reveal something like that to her.

"I only said I am handsome because I feel that way," Jean-Luc explains, "Not because I had a girlfriend or anything. My friend Louis never had any luck with girls, so I started saying he's ugly."

"How sad of him," Bluey says sadly

"I know. I always tell him that he'll find someone out there."

"You too, you know?"

"Huh?" Jean-Luc looks back at Bluey

"You're going to get someone too," Bluey says as she places a hand on Jean-Luc's hand, which was on his leg.

"Thanks, Bluey," Jean-Luc says as a soft smile appears on his face. "Enough about me; I don't want to be the stereotypical hockey player with his ego in the clouds. I still have to ask you something."

"Oh yeah, what are you going to ask me?" Bluey says as she retracts her hand

"What else can you tell me about your friends? I was thinking about meeting them at school, but I'd like to know more about them."

"Oh, of course," Bluey says excitedly before taking the phone off her hip. "I'm sure I have a picture of everyone. Let me look for it first."

---

"WHAT IS THIS!"

"NOT AGAIN"

"DEFEAT"

"TASK FORCE: 1 REBELS: 3

"You guys are embarrassing. Retreat." The video game announcer rubs salt into the losers' wounds and then sends the group to the main menu.

"Guys…"Mackenzie starts talking, his fingers on his eyes. "I think that's enough. I'm not feeling very well."

"Come on, Mack," Jack implores

"Just one more," Rusty also implores." We were so close to winning

"Losing 3 to 1 doesn't count as close."

"It doesn't matter, "Jack says. "Just one more Mack

"Argh," Mackenzie complains, moving his gaze to the ceiling of his room and then back to his monitor. "Okay, one more."

"Hooray!" Rusty and Jack celebrate before entering another game

---

"Here it is," Bluey announces, who was looking for a photo on her phone. "This is the whole group. We took the photo months ago at the end-of-school-year party."

Jean-Luc leans to the side to see the screen of Bluey's phone. Considering the conversation he saw earlier, he expected a group of six or twelve friends, but he is surprised to see with his eyes wide open at the giant group of dogs of different sizes and colors looking at the camera in a group photo in some kind of park. "THAT'S THE GROUP!?"

"Yes, they are my old friends from elementary school, some of my neighbors, and there are also my sister's friends," Bluey explains while Jean-Luc counts the dogs in the photo with his fingers in amazement.

"There are like…"Jean-Luc continues counting until he counts the last dog, "More than 30 dogs there, THAT'S MORE THAN A HOCKEY TEAM!" Jean-Luc says stunned, as he immediately looks at Bluey."

"Yes…"

"Of all the dogs there, I only know Mack, you, and your sister," Jean-Luc says, pointing to the center of the group, where the three of them were on the floor looking at the camera. "It's hard for me to remember the names of 20 guys. How am I going to remember 30? "

"I guess spending time with us," Bluey answers, shrugging her shoulders.

"It's going to take me forever to meet them all."

"Ok, I'll explain it to you quickly," Bluey says, pointing at the photo.

"This one, this one, and these ones here are my friends from Glasshouse, the ones I told you about before. The yellow labs and the brown lab, along with the Chow Chow, are my neighbors, and these ones, plus these four ones here, are Bingo's friends from Glasshouse who are also going to Southern Stars this year."

…

…

…

"Quoi?"

"Ugh," Bluey reacts, annoyed. "There has to be a better way to do this."

"I can wait to meet everyone at school. I think it would be easier this way since everyone is going to be there."

Bluey looks at the floor, her eyes bouncing to every corner until she immediately looks ahead as if a light bulb turned on above her head. "That's it!…"

"Huh?"

"A party… That's it!" Bluey looks at Jean-Luc with a smile and with her eyes wide open. "I could organize a party at my house."

"Huh?...for a group that big?" Jean-Luc asks with a face of astonishment at what he is hearing

"Yes, my house is big so it won't be a problem."

"Ok…"Jean-Luc nods his head slightly."...we'll have a party."

"Hooray!" Bluey exclaims with her arms open. Then she turns on her phone and starts texting. "I'm going to tell my parents and the whole group. When do you want to have the party?"

"What do you think…Wednesday, in two days."

"Perfect," says Bluey, still typing on her phone, but she stops for a second to ask, "Do you want to take a picture of us for the memory?"

"Of course," She says, Jean-Luc, causing Bluey to snuggle close to him and hug him with one arm around the Labrador's shoulders.

"(You know…)" Jean-Luc thinks as he feels the Heeler's fur "(I'll never get tired of this)" and after finishing thinking, Jean-Luc moves his arm to get him out of Bluey's embrace, and when he succeeds, the Labrador places his arm on Bluey's shoulders and brings her closer to him. He grabs Bluey's phone to extend his arm and take another selfie with a giant smile on their faces.

---

"Oh no…"

"OH NO"

"DEFEAT"

"TASK FORCE:2 REBELS:3"

"That wasn't how we planned it, retreat," The announcer speaks for the last time.

"Ughhhhh." Mackenzie places both of his hands on his tired face.

"Hey, BorderCollie17," One of the boys' teammates speaks. "You have a shitty aim, did you know that?"

"And what about you?…" Rusty comes to the rescue. "You stay in the back of the map, You damn camper."

"The one whose dad abandoned him appeared."

"Look at yourself in the mirror, you dirty virgin." Jack gets into the mess.

"Shut up"

"Shut the fuck up"

"Son of a bitch"

That's exactly how the vocal chaos that was coming out of Mackenzie's red headphones started as he reluctantly took them off. "I'm already starting to hate this day," The Collie murmured.

Ding*

"Huh," Mackenzie's phone rings, igniting the curiosity in his head, which moves it to see the notification

"Bluey sent a photo to: The Glasshouse Club."

"Huh…" Now Mackenzie's curiosity was through the roof, and unfortunately for him, curiosity was going to destroy him

When Makcneize opened the notification, he found a photo of Bluey and Jean-Luc, arm in arm, looking at the camera with a smile. Bluey also added a message below the photo.

Bluey: GUYS. You are all invited to a Party at my house on Wednesday to welcome Jean-Luc.

Before he could see the answers of the group members, Mackenzie turned off the phone, and with the same grip, he squeezed the device tightly and furiously, letting out an annoyed growl from his soul. The collie growled and growled until Mackenzie threw his phone at the wall with force and grabbed the keyboard to…

"BANG"

"BANG"

"BANG"

Slams his keyboard on the table, the sound of plastic hitting the wooden table resounding in his room with the sound of keys flying in all directions. After hitting the table three times, Mackenzie throws the keyboard on the table, gets up, and presses the button to turn off the PC

"Mackenzie!" Rusty's voice is heard in the headset, but it is too late

Notes:

9K in this one…Of all the chapters that could be 10K, I don’t really mind this one being so long.

We have the…well, the first antagonist of the story…it’s about time

The song in Jean-Luc and Alice’s flashback is Umbrella by Rihanna, an “in a nutshell” of what the relationship between those two is like

until next time

Chapter 10: Background noise

Notes:

Did I ever say this was going to be a short chapter?... I lied (Bruh). Here is the first 10K chapter of the story by complete accident… I wanted to wrap up as many things as I could before going to one of the major points of this story and the end of what I call "the Second Ark."

Just a heads up, I changed the tags a little bit to make them easier to read, and I thought I already put some tags up there. The AO3 tagging system is really sensitive. One backspace and puff… that thing is gone. So, apologies for that

"OK…Is this on?"

The voice of a young 12-year-old Mackenzie is heard in the video as the phone camera is aimed at the floor and his feet.

"Yeah, I think it's on," said Mackenzie as he aimed his camera up to the field and trees that are around the wooden structure he was in, but besides the nature going on as usual in the background, the camera also showed the blue back with three darker blue dots of a female blue Heeler that was sitting down on the ledge. "Hi, Bluey."

6 years ago*

Glasshouse Elementary School*

The young 12-year-old Bluey turns her head slightly to meet with the Border Collie. "Hi, Mackenzie."

Still aiming the camera at her, Mackenzie moved over to sit beside her, something Bluey asked when she noticed Mackenzie holding the phone as if he was recording something. "What do you have there?"

Mackenzie managed to sit down and aim the camera towards Bluey, who was letting the turf on her hair grow up. "I'm just testing out my new cellphone. Apparently, this new model has the best camera up to date."

"Every year is the same story," said Bluey, rolling her eyes at Mackenzie.

"I know, I heard it before. But anyways…I am also testing the audio quality on this thing…Do you mind telling me some things?"

"Well…" Bluey moved her head toward the trees in the distance and commented, "I'm just relaxing here at the elementary school, looking at the trees, the animals, and the clouds in the sky while my parents are busy talking to Ms Calypso."

"Ah yes," Mackenzie speaks. "Today is the parent-teacher meeting… boring stuff."

"I know," Bluey says, moving her head to look at Mackenzie again. "Why do you think I stay out here…Actually, why are you out here with me?"

"Guilty as charged," confessed Mackenzie, making Bluey giggle a little as Mackenzie lowered his cell phone to avoid getting it in the way while talking to her

When Bluey finished giggling, she said, "Hey, did you notice the strange-looking guy in a black suit?"

"The yellow dog?"

"Yeah, the yellow dog."

"Yeah, I notice him," Mackenzie affirms. "My parents talked a little with him; looks like he is the school director where Digger and Captain are going…I think… it's called Southern Stars."

"Huh…Why is he here?" Bluey asked with an eyebrow raised.

"My parents were talking to him about me going to his school after…" Mackenzie's voice stutters, and he is unsure if what he is saying is what he wants to say " Graduating from Glasshouse."

"Oh…" Bluey briefly breaks visual contact with Mackenzie's eyes to look at the grass beside her before looking at him again."...Sooo…Are you going to Southern Stars then?"

"I'm not sure…" Mackenzie revealed, "I'm still considering my options, but Southers Stars sounds good because apparently Rusty and Jack are going over there…Wait, have you decided yet?"

"Not really...I'm still thinking…"

"Oh, I see…" Mackenzie sounds dejected before speaking as if an idea had come to his mind. "You should come to Southern Stars with us."

"I would love to, but…" Bluey sounded dejected, too. "I kind of want to follow wherever Chloe and Honey go."

"Well, if that's the case, I would also like to follow you."

"For real life?" Bluey eyebrows are raised again.

"Yeah, I don't mind not following Rusty and Jack. I always thought they had their own thing going on without me."

"Ha, I'm glad to hear it…" A soft smile appeared on Bluey's face, but she looked at the phone camera and said, maintaining her soft, friendly tone, "I think it's time to turn that off. We are getting way too personal with this."

"Oh yeah, sure," Mackenzie said for the last time before raising his phone and pressing the red button to stop recording.

---

Present day*

Mackenzie's Home*

DING*

…

…

…

Mel, the Border Collie, opens the door to meet two familiar figures, Rusty and Jack. "Oh, g'day, guys."

Instead of his white cook uniform, Rusty, the 18-year-old red Kelpie, has a white cap with a red brim with the logo of the Southern Stars Cricket team stamped on the front, a blue shield with six white stars, and a pair of cricket bats crossing across the shield; also, a tiny part of his tuft of hair is coming out under the brim. The Red Kelpie also has a dog tag hanging from his neck, a proud reminder of his family's military background, but it also represents his friendship with Jack.

Jack, the 17-year-old Jack terrier, also has a dog tag hanging from his neck, representing his wish to serve his country and his friendship with Rusty.

"Hi, Ms. Border-Collie," Rusty says as he humbly waves his hand. "We are here today to check on Mackenzie. It seems like he is not doing well right now."

"Oh yeah, I heard it, too," says Mel as she opens the door entirely to let the two boys in. Just let me know if you guys need water."

"Thanks, Ms. Border-Collie," says Rusty, and he and Jack step into the house.

But as they got in, Mel mumbled under her breath as she rolled her eyes, "I told you guys you can call me Ms. Mel." Unfortunately for her, they didn't listen while they went up the stairs to Mackenzie's room.

Finally, Rusty and Jack found themselves in front of Mackenzie's room with the sign on the doorknob that said with a red background, "NOT AVAILABLE."

"This is new," the young Jack comments on the sign.

"Yeah, but it's not going to stop us," Rusty says in a whisper as he leans forward to grab the doorknob and twist it, but it's stuck in place. "Seriously, Mack?"

"You still got the key they gifted you?" suggests Jack.

"Yeah, I still have them." Rusty pulls out his car keys, which also have the keys to his Home and another key that could open Mackenzie's room, a measure in case Mackenzie stays garrisoned in his room.

Rusty inserts the key and effortlessly opens the room, but as the door opens out, the two teenagers find keyboard keys on the floor, a broken keyboard on his computer, and a massive bulk under a blanket on his bed—probably Mackenzie hiding under his blanket.

Rusty is the first dog to enter and ambles to Mackenzie's bed. Even with the sound of the door opening and the soft steps on the floor, Mackenzie doesn't react at all, giving Rusty the impression that he is still sleeping. Nevertheless, Rusty and Jack move on, still worried about his best friend.

After Jack closes the door and moves to Mackenzie's bed, Rusty finally walks enough to be at the height where the Border Collie's head would be and puts a hand on what seems like a shoulder. "Pss, wake up, mate. It's me, Rusty," whispers the Kelpie as he moves Mackenzie.

"Grrr," Mackenzie growls as he moves under the blanket. Finally, he takes it off his head to reveal his wasted face.

"Are you OK? We heard what happened over the call," Rusty says as Jack walks to be on the other side of the bed.

Mackenzie doesn't respond, but instead, he gets up to meet his friends with a down demeanor, tired eyes, messy fur with a lot of strings aiming everywhere, wet eyelids, tear marks going down his cheeks, and half his blanket still covering him from his stomach to his feet.

"Mate…" Rusty whispers when he sees his friend's condition while he takes off his cap, revealing that his tuft of hair is almost identical to Bluey's. After dropping his cap on the floor, Rusty gets on the bed and hugs Mackenzie. Jack doesn't waste time following his best friend and joins the hug.

Mackenzie's face and sight are still empty while a Kelpie is on his right hugging him and a Jack Terrier on his left hugging him too. "I'm such a fucking loser," he whispers.

"It's just a game, buddy," Rusty adds, still maintaining the hug.

"No, it's not about the game," Mackenzie whispers again.

"Huh…" Jack separates from the Border Collie while still sitting on the bed. "...What is it then?"

"The photo... Bluey and Jean-Luc's photo." Mackenzie doesn't even bother to look at his friends in the eyes.

"Huh…" Rusty separates from Mackenzie and pulls out his phone to get into the group chat. "...Oh, I see."

"How is this possible..." Mackenzie speaks up with exasperation and teary eyes, "...I have known Bluey for more than ten years, and we just hug like once per day at school while this guy crosses the pond and looks like she is glued to him like they are the perfect couple or some shit…THIS IS OUTRAGEOUS.

"Hey!" Jack shifts his weight to be in front of Mackenzie. "It's just a photo. You guys always hug like that in every single picture."

"Plus," Rusty gets in. "Like I said, this doesn't mean they are a couple."

"Come on!" Mackenzie rolls his eyes. "It's not that they are going to announce it to everyone."

"But at the same time, it's not wise to think it's over," Rusty says. "You remember that air battle we played a month ago in 'Lighting War'?"

"You mean the one we stayed up late playing against an air fleet of sweaty guys?" Jack asks.

"Yeah, that one. We were down by 20 air kills, and Jack suggested leaving the match, and you know what you said that night?" Rusty asks in yet another moment of motivational speech

Mackenzie rolls his eyes before repeating himself, "'No, we are staying."

"Exactly, and after that, we went on and won the match by one kill. "The sweaty pilot wanting t us was absolutely comical."

"Yeah," Jack says, almost on the verge of laughing, "This is the same thing. You are going to keep going till the end, buddy."

"Yeah, 'The show must go on,'" Rusty quoted excitedly with one finger up.

"Ha…You guys can't get into my room and quote Bingo," Mackenzie says.

"Why not? It's a really good quote," Rusty defends himself while shrugging his shoulders.

"Um, yeah, I will give you that," Mackenzie states, as the sound of his old self can be heard in the background of his voice. "By the way, is Bingo still trying to call me?"

"We got calls from her, but after that, she just stopped," Jack says while pulling and looking at his phone.

"Good, I guess..."

"Party at Bluey's house…" Jack repeats the message in a low voice as his brain analyzes the text. "...This could be beneficial."

"What do you mean?" Mackenzie asks with one eyebrow up.

"Bluey said 'everyone,' so every single dog in the club will be there, including you and Jean-Luc."

"So? What are you trying to suggest, Private Jack?" Rusty asks, following the game Jack is trying to pull

"Maybe…We can finally see how these two are behaving, see what their relationship looks like, and see if there is something else than hugs."

"OK…He has a point," says Rusty, looking at Mackenzie.

"Ummmm," Mackenzie thinks about what Jack said. In the few instances where Jean-Luc and Bluey are together, they always hug at least once, and unfortunately for him, Jack is right. He and Bluey always hug by the shoulders, and they still aren't in a relationship.

Jean-Luc's welcoming party at Bluey's house means she has to stay near him. Jack is right; this could be an opportunity for him to see how much Bluey likes Jean-Luc.

As long as he doesn't lose it like today. Everything will be fine.

"Yeah, let's do this." Mackenzie nods

"Alright…Operation…What should we call this operation?" Rusty asks, confused.

"Operation Homecoming, let's not drag this on," Jack says, shrugging his shoulders.

"Didn't you guys already have Operation Homecoming?" Mackenzie asks

"Nope." Jack turns to Mackenzie and points at him in a friendly manner. "That was Operation Homewrecker."

"OK, Operation Homecoming it is," Rusty consents.

"Hooray!" Mackenzie and Jack celebrate at the same time but without extending their arms.

Tock tock tock*

"Huh?" All three boys react, confused, after snapping their heads to look at the room door.

"Can I open the door?" Mel's voice sounds off on the other side of the door.

"Yeah, sure," Mackenzie screams out, letting his mother

Mel peeks her head into the room and says, holding the door. "Mackenzie, you got a visitor."

"Huh, who?"

Mel opened the door entirely to reveal Mackenzie's visitor.

"Oh," all three boys interject at the sight of a familiar orange dog.

"Aw shit, just because we moved out doesn't mean the house is out of walking range of the Heelers," Mackenzie thought with horror when he saw the familiar shape of a red heeler on the door frame.

---

Captain Burke Park*

Brisbane city center*

To say the day was perfect is an understatement. The weather couldn't be any more perfect. There was no single cloud in the sky, and it was windy enough to cool her fur. The grass absorbed the sound of the streets as an airliner high in the sky painted the clear blue sky with white trails coming out of its engines.

"And this photo," Jean-Luc says, putting his phone in front of Bluey, "is from when I visited the museum in Pearl Harbor days before I got here."

"Oh," Bluey grabs his cell phone to look more determinedly at the photo while she and the Labrador are lying down on the grass as he decided to show her photos of the things he did before. The picture shows Jean-Luc posing with other boys in front of a green and yellow fighter plane with the jaws of a shark painted under the engine. "Looks like it was fun for you,".

"Yeah. It was fun, but the air was so heavy to breathe," Jean-Luc tells. "The more you think about what happened there, the heavier the air gets."

"You mean like... the souls of the dogs wandering around?"

"Yeah, something like that,"

"That's sad." Bluey returns the cell phone to Jean-Luc to look at the sky again, to see the airliner fly in the sky, but the plane reminds her of something and asks away, "So, Jean-Luc, if you wanted to come back to Brisbane so badly, why didn't you travel here before?"

"Because my aunt used to live here, she helps us to translate some stuff, and she lets us sleep in her place, but a little after our trip, my aunt decided to move to Mexico. She said it is cheap, and she doesn't have to be so far away from the family in Canada. And also, the tickets to fly from Quebec to Brisbane aren't exactly cheap."

"Oh," Bluey looks at the sky again.

"My turn…" Jean-Luc asks. "I'm going to confess this might be personal, but what do you think of Mack?"

"Well…" Bluey rolls her eyes to think of a carefully edited truth. "He is awesome. Out of all the people I hang out with at school or out there, he is the one I spend the most time with. He can be a little shy or too competitive with me sometimes, but we understand each other. There is no other dog I want to spend time with at school."

"Oh, awesome," Jean-Luc responds happily as he looks at the sky.

Out of nowhere, Bluey's eyes shot up the second she understood what she said. Holding her weight on her elbow, she got up slightly to look at him and said rapidly, "... I meanIwouldstillhangoutwithyouthoughitdoesn'tmeanIonlyhangoutwithhimthough."

"I know, I know," Jean-Luc says sarcastically, bouncing his head from side to side. "I know what you mean. I'm just saying, it's awesome the relationship you guys have."

"Really?"

"Yeah."

"Cool." Bluey returns to lying on the grass as her mind goes through what happened. She trusts Jean-Luc but not to the point of dropping the bomb on him that she has feelings for the Collie; he could just tell Mackenzie and spoil the moment. She is determined to tell Mackenzie her feelings whenever she is ready.

Suddenly, the involuntary urge of her mouth opening and the inhaling of air of a yawn signals to Bluey that it is enough talking for the day. "I'm tired. I had to wake up earlier to help my family pick up the camp; I barely slept on the way to Brisbane, and I don't want to sleep in the middel of the park."

"OK, I will text Mel to pick us up." Jean-Luc gets up and text her guardian.

---

Mackenzie's room*

Ding*

The notification on Mel's cell phone sounds off. She pulls out her phone to look at it and says, "I gotta go pick up Bluey and Jean-Luc. Your dad is in the other room watching a race." Mel puts her phone back on her hip and continues, "I will see you guys later."

"Don't worry about us. I think we will be gone by the time you guys come back," Rusty briefs.

"OK, bye guys," Mel walks off, leaving Bingo on the doorframe of Mackenzie's room.

"What are you doing here, Summer Sun!?" Jack questions as Bingo steps into the room, closing the door behind her.

But Bingo doesn't respond but instead looks at the mess caused by Mackenzie's moment. "Looks like someone is not doing good."

"Let's get this over with." With a face of courage, Mackenzie raised his head to face Bingo. "What do you want to talk about!?"

"Oh… nothing…" Bingo speaks innocently with her hands behind her back as if she didn't try to call Mackenzie the whole day. She also gets on the bed where Mackenzie's feet are, "...Just wondering how my best friend is doing, 'cause you know, being so far away from civilization, it makes you wonder how my friends are doing. In fact, I dare say that I missed you. I missed your tomfooleries and seeing your pretty black and white fur, and I'm sorry if my only sin is wanting to see you and asking how my best friend in the absolute world is doing."

…

…

…

…

…

…

"Really?" the three boys ask.

"NO!" Bingo barks as she lunges forward to grab Mackenzie's shoulder and shakes him violently. "WHAT ARE YOU DOING, YOU LOSER!? MY SISTER IS SPENDING TIME WITH THE HOT LABRADOR WHILE YOU ARE BEING LAZY AS FUCK IN YOUR BED!"

"First of all, no, I just cried myself to sleep. Thank you very much." Mackenzie speaks, trying to recover from all the shaking. "Second, I wasn't invited to go, so what do you want me to do? Going undercover and being an absolute ass to Bluey and Jean-Luc? Third, just because you are helping me date Bluey doesn't mean you walk over to my house and shake me violently."

"But it's my job as a wingman to put your bolts together," Bingo shakes Mackenzie again, but slower this time. "How can I help you date my sister if you are not doing your part, especially after you blocked me?"

"What if you put your part instead?" Mackenzie says more determinedly and asks Bingo, "Did Bluey mention something about Jean-Luc at the camping site?"

"Nope," Bingo shakes her head. "Luckily for you, she didn't. Just a drawing she did while she was bored, but nothing else."

"A drawing?" The three boys ask, confused.

"Long story, but…" Bingo let go of one of Mackenzie's shoulders and pointed up with one finger. "There is still a chance. Trust me on that."

"A chance?" Mackenzie says with a drop of hope in his voice

"Yes, but that chance is fading fast if you don't act fast enough."

"So she has feelings for Jean-Luc?" Rusty asks with both arms crossed.

"No, but you, Mack, you know the story these two have," Bingo says.

"What story?" Jack asks innocently.

"It's a long but long story," Bingo says. "OK, my turn. Did Jean-Luc mention something about Bluey?"

"Not really," Mackenzie speaks, "but on the camping trip, before leaving, I followed Bluey and Jean-Luc back to the pink tree, and when they came back to the trucks, I found a note that Jean-Luc wrote for Bluey in case she wasn't there."

"Oh…" Bingo let go of Makcneize's other shoulder and dropped herself onto Mackenzie's legs before saying with closed eyes, "You mean the godforsaken note Bluey has been searching for all three days?"

"She did?" Mackenzie asks with one eyebrow up, to which Bingo nods, defeated.

"I swear I almost punched her 'cuz she keeps asking for the note, but if I did, she would have fed me to the salties," Bingo confesses, still with her eyes closed.

"What note?" Jack asks again.

"Long story." Bingo finally opens her eyes to look at Mackenzie. "What happened next?"

"I talked to my father about it when we came back, and he told me to confront him because he can't use us for his leisure, and I did, but he thought I was talking about my feelings for Bluey, so he said he is not going to get in the way, that he will not try to make a move on Bluey."

"Oh," Bingo's shoulders relax. "OK, then, we don't have to worry about him then."

"No!" All three boys shout at the same time.

"Bingo…" Jack says with his hand covering his eyes. "I don't know what is going on, but it's Mans 101 that if a man says they are not interested in a girl another guy is in love with, that guy, in most cases, is lying."

"I'm a girl! How the hell was I supposed to know that distracted soldier?!" Bingo defends herself while using Jack's nickname.

"Thing is…" Mackenzie speaks with his right hand on his right eyebrow. "...We don't trust Jean-Luc not to make a move on Bluey, especially considering the photo they sent to the group chat today."

"You guys always take photos hugging by the shoulders." Bingo covers her face as she slowly shakes it. "What's so special about this?"

"Because..." Mackenzie quickly moves his eyes around to come up with something. "I'm not there?" he says with a nervous smile.

"You are just jealous. Be for real." Bingo friendly taps the top of Mackenzie's head. "What now, Mack?"

"Operation Homecoming," Rusty talks. "We will spy on how much those two actually behave at your sister's party."

"Didn't you guys already have Operation Homecoming?" Bingo asks, pointing at Rusty.

"That was Homewrecker"

"Huh, yeah, I still remember Homewrecker…Anyway, I heard Bluey was hanging out with Jean-Luc, and I got worried you didn't do anything. That's why I tried to call you," Bingo says submissively.

"Bingo…" Mackenzie also talks in a meek tone. "… You know I don't like talking to you while you are mad because you…

"Because then I don't listen, I know, I know," Bingo interrupts Mackenzie with a palm on her eye. "It's just…You know how hard I worked to get you guys together, and with Jean-Luc around, I got nervous."

"Yeah, I guess."

"Just unblock me." Bingo takes her palm from her eye. "And I will deal with the rest of the guys."

"...What?"

"The other guys…Don't you have your phone with you?"

"I threw it away before going to sleep," Mackenzie says before turning to the white and brown terrier and pointing to the left corner of his room. "Jack, it should be over there."

"Righto," Jack says as he looks for Mackenzie's phone behind a little table with a lantern on top. Jack grabs his phone and tosses it to Mackenzie so he can turn it on.

"Holy…" Mackenzie's eyes opened, and his heart sank completely at the sight of many, many unfriendly notifications.

Rusty leans to see and read every notification. "Missing calls from Chloe, texts from Sadie, and more missing calls from the Terriers. It looks like they did not like the fact that Bluey is hanging out with Jean-Luc."

"'You dumb idiot, why is he hanging out with Bluey and not you?'" Mackenzie repeats a text message he got from the Afghan hound.

"Geez, Indy, you don't need to go that far," Rusty commented.

Jack joins his friends and leans in to see the notifications: "'You bobo head, no wonder you are still single.'"

"Banjo still being Banjo," Mackenzie says.

"'We worked so hard for a purple Labrador to date Bluey. Fucking idiot." Rusty reads another text message.

"Why, I'm not surprised it came from Chucky," Mackenzie says, hitting his face with his palm.

"'Fuck you.'" Both Jack and Rusty read a message at the same time.

"Let me guess…Buddy?" The Collie speaks still with one hand on his face.

"Nope, Coco," both guys say at the same time.

"Fuck...me." Mackenzie, slowly and defeated, passes his hand through his face.

"I guess I deserved this for being a loser and having the WHOLE FUCKING GROUP HELPING ME." Thought Mackenzie as his hand finally got off his face to look at Bingo.

"You see how much we care about you and Bluey," Bingo says as she finally gets off Mackenzie's legs and the bed. "We want to see you guys together."

"Yeah, I know…" Mackenzie passes a hand through his fur to accommodate it. "I would like to spend more time with you guys, but I need a shower. I need to think."

"Sure, mate," Rusty says before he and Jack get off the bed to leave and pick up his hat from the floor.

Bingo opens the door to let Rusty and Jack get out of the room, but before she walks out and closes the door, she calls him, "Hey, Mackenzie."

"!" Mackenzie's eyes open up. Bingo usually calls him Mack, but sometimes, she calls him by his real name whenever she has something important to say. "Yes, Bingo?"

"Don't give up yet. I know this doesn't look pretty, but you got this. The show must go on."

"Thanks, Bingo," Mackenzie says softly, but when Bingo turns around and is about to leave him alone, he shouts, "Bingo!"

"?" Bingo doesn't say anything but stays under the door frame, waiting for Mackenzie to talk to her.

"Remember what we talked about at the beginning,"

"I do…" Bingo turns her head around and talks to the Border Collie for the last time. "...Not a single word to Bluey."

And with that, Bingo steps out of the room and closes the door, leaving Mackenzie with his thoughts.

"She is right," Mackenzie thinks as he watches the door. "She always spends time with Bluey, so if she says I have a chance, then I still have a chance."

---

Bluey's home*

"It was fun spending time with you, Jean-Luc," Bluey says as she holds the passenger door open to speak with Jean-Luc and Mel, who are in the front seats. "I will see you on Wednesday for the party, and thanks, Ms. Mel, for picking us up."

"Don't worry, Bluey. It's been a pleasure," Mel says, looking back as she holds onto the steering wheel.

"À plus tard, Bluey." Jean-Luc farewells her as he is looking behind to see her.

"À plus tard, Jean-Luc." Bluey closes the door to let them return to their house, and as Mel drives off, Bluey stays in front of the house to wave Jean-Luc goodbye.

When the orange pickup truck is out of sight, Bluey turns back and walks to the door of her Home, the good-old, massive house she would never change for any other house in the world. She enters, goes up the stairs, and into the kitchen, where she finds her father, Bandit, preparing a smoothie. "Hey, Dad."

"Oh, hi, Bluey," Bandit greets as he cuts some bananas on a wooden cutting board. "How did it go with Jean-Luc?"

"It was amazing," Bluey says joyfully as she sits on a stool opposite her father. "We caught up on a lot of things."

"Awesome!" Bandit reacts as he shifts his focus to the cutting board.

As Bandit continues, Bluey looks around herself and asks, "Is Bingo awake yet? I gotta talk to her."

"Bingo barely slept like one hour before walking to Lila's house," Bandit says as he cuts another banana. "She said she wanted to spend the night over there."

"For real life?" Bluey frowns, expressing her annoyance, which her father shrugs off. I guess I will text her then," she says as she pulls out her phone and starts typing. She needs to know this."

"About what?" Bandit raised his head to look at Bluey.

Bluey puts down her phone, inhales air, and says, "Does the name 'Diamond' ring a bell to you?"

---

Mackenzie's house front porch*

As Rusty, Jack, and Bingo walk out of the house, Rusty asks, "Do you want me to take you to your house?"

"No, I told my father that I'm going to be in Lila's house to be here, but I kinda need a night over there. This whole situation is stressing me out," Bingo says as she walks over to Rusty's car, a modern red four-door sedan.

Rusty unlocks his car, allowing him and Jack to get in the front seats, leaving Bingo to get in the back seat. "Guys," Bingo calls as she sits in the middle of the back seats in between the separation of the two front seats. "Can you guys stay a little bit at Lila's? We need to have a conversation about Mack and Bluey."

"Yeah, sure," Rusty responded, putting his hat on the back seat and pressing the button to turn on his car. "I've got nothing else going on."

"What about Indy?"

"She is busy spending time with her family," Rusty responds as he shifts into gear to drive forward. "Sometimes, in relationships, we need time for ourselves. You will get that when you get into your first relationship."

"Pff, the expert has spoken," Bingo jokes, rolling her eyes.

"By the way," Jack gets into the conversation, turning his body to see her, "Did anyone catch your eye yet?"

"I don't think you should be asking this, Jack," Bingo scolds him. "Besides, the school year hasn't even started."

"So you don't like anybody from the club?" Jack asks again.

"Do YOU like anybody from the club?" Bingo counterattacks

"Uhhhhh"

"Point proven." Bingo returns to her seat with a tepid, annoyed face as she pulls out her cell phone to start texting her best friend.

Bingo: Hey, Lila!

Bingo: Can I stay at your place just for tonight?

Bingo: I kinda need it.

Bingo puts down her phone and looks at the vehicle's ceiling while Rusty keeps driving through the neighborhood. Her conversation with her sister that night starts to reproduce in her head as her heart makes its presence known by beating harder and harder with each beat. She is not expecting to confess to her tonight, but the fact that she feels a lot more freedom after confessing to her sister lets her feelings for Lila run wild in her heart until a rumble from her phone makes her look at it again.

Lila: Sure

Lila: I thought you got tired of sleeping in my house.

A soft smile appears on Bingo's face as she texts back with joy flowing trough the veins of her fingers.

Bingo: LoL Never

Bingo: Also, Rusty and Jack are going to hang out with us; we need to have a conversation about the two lovebirds.

Lila: Mack chicken out again?

Lila: Wait, Bluey chickened out this time? Been a while since that happened.

Bingo: Nope, it's about the new exchange student.

Lila: The guy that hugged Bluey by the shoulders in that photo?

Bingo: Yeah, him.

Lila: Oh Boy

Lila: I will let Mum know you are coming.

Bingo: Thanks

The red Heeler puts down the phone with a tired demeanor to enjoy the quietness of the car while Rusty keeps driving to Lila's place.

Buzz*

However, another text reached her phone, making Bingo raise her cell phone again.

Bluey: Bingo, you got a moment?

Bingo raised her right eyebrow confused, as she texted back

Bingo: Yeah, what's up?

Bluey: found Diamond selling ice cream at the park in the city center.

Bluey: We almost fought again, but Jean-Luc managed to push me away from her

Bingo face's change to total exasperation…Diamond…It's been two months since she heard that name…After she and Bluey…Bingo shakes her head and texts back.

Bingo: Oh Boy, Completely forgot about her

Bingo: Bluey, I really do not want to start the school year with you getting into another fight. Rolling eyes emoji

Bluey: Me neither, but she can get some if she wants to. Close fist emoji

Bingo: Facepalm emoji

Bingo rolls her eyes after sending her emoji, but then she looks out the window. She looks at the familiar houses near Lila's house, Making Bingo mentally thank the fact that her home is close to hers. Rusty drives until he finally parks in front of the red brick house and turns off the vehicle

"OK, leave the talking to me," says Bingo as she and the two boys step out of the car and walk to the house. "I think Lila's mum is not going to take it so lightly that two boys are going to spend time with her in their own house."

Lila's Home is a two-story red brick house with a well-maintained porch and garden, a garage on the left, and a white SUV parked outside. On the white door, there is a sign that says, "We are Malteses but not from Malta. HaHaHa," with a button next to the door that Bingo presses to signify her arrival.

The white door doesn't take long to open with an adult white Maltese on the other side.

"G'day, Ms. Shaila." Bingo greets her with a waving hand, but instead of a friendly response, Shaila looks threateningly at the two guys behind Bingo.

"Why are they here?" Shaila frowns and points with one finger to the boys.

"They are just here for a little bit. We are going to talk to Lila, and they will be on their way," Bingo explains.

"I already have a girlfriend," Rusty defends himself, trying to be one step ahead of Shaila.

"I'm an angel." Jack shrugs his shoulders… doing his best

"Huh, uh."

"Mum!" a female scream rumbles behind the door. "Let them in. They are just going to talk to me and Bingo, and they will leave."

Shaila looks behind her. "That's fine, but next time, let me know if you are bringing boys over."

"OK, Mum."

With that, Shaila finally opens the door to let the three teenagers in, but it also reveals the teenage Maltese with a pink band holding together some of her hair.

"Lila!" Bingo shouts with open eyes as she walks to her best friend and hugs her tightly.

"Bingo!" Lila accepts the embrace by hugging Bingo tighter. "How did it go?"

Bingo separates from Lila and says, holding her hands, "It was good. You should have been there; the stars were beautiful."

"Naturally, because of the lack of light pollution, stars are easy to see."

"Always being smart, eh?" Bingo jokes, causing Lila to shrug her shoulders and close her eyes in a smug way

"Glad everything went well while camping," says Shaila, closing the door after Rusty and Jack got in. "Would you guys like some water?"

Rusty and Jack are about to deny the offering, but Bingo speaks first: "Yeah, we got a lot to talk about," causing Rusty to raise his eyes, amazed, while Jack secretly gulps.

"OK, I will be right back," says Shaila as she turns and walks towards the kitchen.

"Let me help you, Mum," Lila says as she follows her mother.

With Shaila and Lila out of the living room, Jack turns to Rusty and says, "OK, we need to start planning for Operation Homecoming."

"Yeah…" Rusty says, putting his index finger and thumb on his mouth, "...Spying on Bluey and Jean-Luc in Bluey's house."

"Spying on them in the middle of the party will be the easy part," Jack starts planning, with one index finger and thumb on his mouth. "But if they go on their own, that will be complicated."

Bingo only limited herself to sighing while hearing the two boys talk behind her. Tired of their military acts, tired of being in this situation, tired of Bluey and Mackenzie

Lila and her mother didn't take long to return to the living room with three cups of water. "Thanks, Lila and Ms. Shaila," Bingo thanked as she grabbed one cup of water.

"Alright…" Lila hands Rusty and Jack a cup. "What do you guys want to talk about?"

"Can we talk in your room instead? Bingo asks with one raised eyebrow.

"Yeah, sure. It's a good thing I cleaned it today," Lila celebrates as she turns to go up the stairs.

"I'm fine with it as long as you guys leave the door open," warns Shaila as Lila, Bingo, Jack, and Rusty start to go up the stairs.

"Yes, Mum," Lila states as she continues going up.

On the second floor, Lila and her guests reach her room, which has a pink closed door with a sign that says, 'No brothers allowed.' Lila opens the door and lets Bingo, Jack, and Rusty in, but when it is her turn to get in, she accomplishes her mother's wish and leaves her door open after she walks in.

Lila's room is covered in every shade of pink imaginable, including her massive and tall bed, the walls, the curtains, and even her table, which has a PC with LED lights under it and a black monitor on top.

Bingo leaves her cup of water on top of the table with the computer and turns around to start with two pleading hands together. "We need to stop this."

"What?" Rusty reacts in confusion, still in the center of the room, while Jack sits on Lila's bed.

"We can't continue doing this. I can't do this anymore."

"What are you talking about, Bingo?" asks Lila as she moves behind Bingo to drag the pink gaming chair from under the computer table and sits on it.

"This… whole thing…"

"Bingo!" All three teenagers exclaim.

"Ughhhh." Bingo exasperatedly looks to the ceiling with grinding teeth before looking down again and continuing, "We need to tell both of them the feeling they have for each other."

"WHAT!" All three teenagers scream out

"Are you serious, Bingo?" Jack says, putting a hand on his face.

"We can't do this," Rusty says, crossing his arms over his chest.

"We made a promise…" Lila says in her chair, "...To both of them."

"Well, it looks like we can't keep that anymore." Bingo stands her ground, also crossing her arms.

"Why is that?" Rusty opens his eyes and leans towards Bingo, letting the white of his eyes intimidate the Heeler.

"Jean-Luc…" Bingo opens her eyes to look straight into Rusty's eyes, imitating him, "...Jean-Luc is the problem."

Rusty open eyes change to a frown. "You know something we don't."

"Alright," Jack speaks up, making Rusty and Bingo look at him. "Let's start from the beginning. Did Bluey mention something about Jean-Luc?"

"Not exactly." Bingo starts talking. "But whenever someone mentions him at the camping site, I notice her tail starts to wag. However, Bluey told me her heart is still with Mack."

"Good," Rusty adds, "but that doesn't say much. We all wag our tails for several reasons."

"True," Bingo points at the Kelpie, giving him the reason. "But that's not the problem."

"I'm listening." Lila leans out of the chair to hear with more clarity. "But Bingo, you better tell me what is going on."

"Oh yes, I will." Bingo nods several times as she turns her head to look at Lila. "I'm going to start from the beginning."

"Soo," Bingo looks forward to explaining to Rusty and Jack, "one thing to know about Bluey and Jean-Luc is that they already met each other back when you guys were in Glasshouse and back when Lila and I were in kindy, eleven years ago."

"What!" Jack leans forward, astonished.

"Mack did mention something like that the last time I saw him," Rusty says with Index and Thumb on his mouth.

"What do you mean?" Bingo asks with one eyebrow raised.

"After the trip, Mackenzie visited Lucky and me in Blaze's to talk about him, so I already know a little about what happened at your guys' camping trip."

"Not me…" Jack gets himself into the conversation.

"Or me," Lila also speaks.

"Let me speak." Bingo annoyingly looks to the ceiling before continuing. "Like I said, Bluey already met Jean-Luc on one of our camping trips. Apparently, Bluey loved spending time with him so much that she made a drawing with her and Jean-Luc and kept it with her throughout all these years."

"Wait…" Rusty raised his head as if a lightbulb lit up on top of his head. "A purple dog?"

"Yeah," Bingo nods, "a purple/dark blue dog on the left and Bluey on the right."

"¡Hey! I remember that drawing…" Rusty says, "...I was next to Bluey when she made it in Glasshouse."

"Oh, good to know. OK, everyone up to date?" Bingo looks around, receiving nods from Lila, Rusty, and Jack. "Now, eleven years later, Jean-Luc becomes an exchange student, flies from Canada, and somehow finds Bluey in the same camping site."

"Something must have happened there," Lila deems. "It's simply not possible to find someone like that."

"Well," Rusty starts to speak, "according to what Mack said, Jean-Luc wasn't expecting to find Bluey at the camping site."

"So it was an accident?" Lila comment

"Yeah, cause if it was planned, I would've known from the beginning, or Bluey would have recognized him as a stalker and kicked his butt." Bingo states

"OK, but why are you worried Bluey might choose to date Jean-Luc instead of Mack? Everything that we know has happened to them doesn't mean they are a couple," Rusty asks.

"Because I know my sister."

"Huh?" Lila and Rusty react

"What do you mean?" Jack asks

"Lila…" Bingo turns her head to look at Lila. "You remember that sleepover at Honey's a few years ago?"

"Yeah... the one we spent the night watching a movie?"

"And also the night we played truth or dare…"

"Oh boy," Rusty sarcastically turns around with his hands on his hips.

"Bluey…" Bingo turns to the boys to recount, "...Got dared to say who else her crush was besides Mackenzie, and she said she had feelings for Lucky before."

"Lucky!?" Jack reacts by shaking his head back

"My brother in yellow is so busy watching games in the Americas and Europe that he is straight-out incompetent to date Bluey," Rusty says sarcastically, his arms slightly open.

"Well, he is dating Judo," Lila says, shrugging her shoulders. "And arguably, Judo is harder to date than Bluey."

"And also!" Bingo speaks up, making the three dogs fall silent. "When she reconnected with Winnie at that party three years ago, she spent so much time with her afterward that Chloe got jealous of her."

"Yeah, I still remember that," Jack comments. "She was always planning something to get Bluey away from Winnie, but luckily, they figure things out."

"And also," Bingo continues, "whenever I had classes with her, I noticed she always treated other Labradors better than some other dogs."

"Isn't it…" Jack says with one finger up, but he also rolls his eyes. "Reverse racism?"

"What the…" Rusty facepalms his face.

"It's favoritism, you dork," Lila says, annoyed at the Jack terrier

"POINT IS!…" Bingo screams out, "...Bluey has a thing for Labradors."

"Really?" Jack says, ignoring the fact that Rusty and Lila want to choke him out.

"Well, yes." Bingo nods with her eyes closed, already getting tired of Jack, but she opens them up to continue. "My problem with Jean-Luc is that Bluey will choose him over Mack, considering what I witnessed before."

"But telling the truth to them?" Rusty says with a confused face, "We made… Lila said it before. We made a promise to both of them."

"Yeah," Lila speaks. "We promise Bluey not to say anything to Mack, and we promise Mack not to say anything to Bluey."

"And eat up this idiocy?...C'mon, guys!" Bingo says, galled, getting angrier by the second. "Are we really going to let everything we did for those two go down the drain just because a Canadian showed up in a forest!?"

"..." Rusty and Lila stay quiet, looking up and down the room to avoid looking at Bingo.

"Then so be it…" Jack dared to speak up, gaining an annoyed look from Bingo and an amazed look from his best friend and Lila. "…This whole thing... of keeping the secret... is to make it run naturally... right?"

"Yeah," Bingo continued. "Both of them said it. They wanted to confess to each other without any other help, just like Rusty and Indy did years ago."

"Then what if…the fact that Bluey falls in love with the Labrador…is part of nature?"

"What are you talking about?"

"I mean... if it is meant to be... if it is meant to be that Bluey has a stronger feeling for this guy than Mack," Jack continues shyly.

"Look…" Rusty finally gets into the conversation, turning to Bingo. "...I know we did a lot to set them up, but if Bluey chooses this guy instead of Mack…then there is nothing else we can do. We can't force Bluey to date Mack."

Bingo looks at Jack and Rusty, stunned, not believing a single word she is hearing.

"Don't get me wrong," Rusty continues. "My loyalty is still with Mack, and I will help him in any way I can. But let's be realistic. We have been helping both of them for so damn long that this isn't even funny anymore. And you heard us when Mack was going through those notifications. I'm willing to bet many of us are already fed up with Mack and Bluey; even Indy confessed to me that she has given up on them."

Bingo looks down, absorbing Rusty's words in a moment of reflection. At the same time, her sad behavior signals to the three teenagers that she is acknowledging that Rusty might be right.

"Bingo…" Rusty puts his hand on Bingo's shoulders while she is still looking down. "...I learned this on my first days working at Blaze's. It's a kind of bias. When you work on a project for so long that you hesitate or refuse to abandon it for a better project…this might be the same thing."

…

…

…

"I heard it countless times before with my family," Jack says. "Sometimes the best thing we can do is to let it go."

Bingo raises her head to Jack and says, "If I want your opinion, I will pull Rusty's dick out of your mouth!."

"What!?" Both guys exclaimed

"Actually," Bingo says as she grabs Rusty's shoulders to turn him around and push him. "We are done here; it's been a pleasure talking to you guys. Lila helped me out with Jack."

"Ok." Lila gets up from her chair and walks to Jack.

"Hey, I can walk-wow." Jack protests, but he is interrupted by Lila, who grabs him by the arm to pull him out of the bed and push the jack terrier out of her room.

"Hey," Rusty protests. "We can walk towards the exit, you know?"

"Nah," Bingo ignored him, pushing Rusty out of the room and towards the stairs. "Kicking you guys out is way more entertaining."

"Should have known this is how it ends, boys," Lila says as she continues to push Jack down the stairs.

"Bingo, you better think this through," Rusty says as Bingo makes him descend the stairs.

"Don't care, didn't ask." Bingo disregard him

"They are not going to be happy with you for spilling the secret," Rusty says as Bingo and Lila finally push both guys to the main door to the porch.

"I have a brain," Bingo says as she opens the door and pushes Rusty out of the house, with Lila doing the same to Jack. "Leave me alone."

PLAM*

The sound of the door closing reverberates, leaving Rusty and Jack alone.

"Girls…" Rusty sarcastically says as he turns to Jack, "Gotta love them."

"Jeez…So what do you want to do now?"

"Maybe we can annoy Lucky at Blaze's. He always likes to take his breaks late," Rusty suggests as he turns his body to prepare to walk to his car.

"Good idea." Jack starts to walk with Rusty to leave the place.

Inside the house, Bingo looks to the floor, defeated, something Lila notices, and puts a hand on her shoulder and asks. "You OK, Bingo?"

"I don't know…" Bingo says, defeated, "I'm tired…Of everything…Bluey and Mack are still scared of each other…People are giving up on them…Jean-Luc might attempt to become my sister's boyfriend or vice versa…and she texted me somthing"

Bingo pulls out her cell phone, searches for her conversation with her sister, and shows it to Lila.

After looking at the small conversation, Lila return the phone to Bingo and says "Oh yeah, Diamond, it's been a while since I saw her,"

"Me too, it reminded me that we will also be studying with her this year. With everything going on right now, your bed is much more comfortable than mine." Says Bingo still looking down

"Bingo…You can't just call me out of nowhere and tell me you want to sleep in my bed."

"Yeah, you are right." Bingo raised her head to look at Lila. "Does your mom still have that inflatable bed?"

"I mean... You can't tell me you want to sleep in my bed and not share it with the owner," Lila says with one bold eyebrow up.

At the sight of Lila's boldness, Bingo couldn't avoid smiling. "Fair... Fair."

"Let's go back to my room," Lila suggests. "I gotta show you what I made while you were camping."

"What do you mean?"

"The story... the fanfic I talked to you about."

"Oh!... Oh yeah, show me," Bingo says as the two best friends go up the stairs to return to Lila's room.

---

Mackenzie's house

"There is only one place I usually think about these things," Mackenzie thinks as he goes down the house's stairs. "The park near the house."

When the Collie arrived on the main floor with a clean face and fur, he found the returning Jean-Luc sitting on a stool in the kitchen, talking to Mel and Fozzie. As if the sound of his steps reached the Labrador's ears, Jean-Luc turned his head to look at Mackenzie. "Oh, hi, Mack."

"Hi, Luke," Mackenzie greets back with a waving hand.

"Probably this is going to hurt," Mackenzie thinks as he approaches Jean-Luc. "But it's worth a shot."

"How did it go with Bluey in the city center?" Mackenzie asks, starting his happy act as he walks enough to be next to Jean-Luc.

"It went well," the Labrador answers happily. "We catch up on a lot of things."

"Good to hear…" Mackenzie says, slightly nodding his head. "I'm going to be in the park. I will be back soon."

"OK, Mack." "OK, Mack." "OK, Mackenzie." The Border Collie parents and Jean-Luc say in unison.

After Mackenzie leaves the house, he walks the short distance to the park near his home. Under the orange sky of a sunset in Brisbane, he reflects, "I have known Bluey since we were 5. She is my closest friend besides Rusty and Jack. I started having feelings for her when I was six…I tried to confess to her several times but couldn't bring myself to say it…Im scared of what is going to happen afterward. Is she going to stop being my friend if she doesnt feel the same?... Man, it's going to be the end of my world if she doesnt feel the same."

"When I was in middle school, Bingo figured I had a feeling for her sister, and we agreed that she would help me without telling her. Later, more and more friends started to help me until we got to the point where everyone in the Glasshouse club was involved."

"Then, on the other side, we got Jean-Luc…An exchange student from Canada, the unofficial captain of his high school hockey team, and a top-grade student who speaks English well. He treats my mother as his mother, too… a really calm guy who can be manipulative."

Finally, the border collie arrived at the infamous park with a single tree in the middle, where a stereotypical angry magpie usually makes its nest. Mackenzie briefly walked through the spiky grass toward the tree, and when he arrived, he sat down with his back to the trunk under the shadow of the branches. And continues to reflect, "Then both of them find each other in the same forest they met eleven years ago...My luck, man."

"Jean-Luc and Bluey have a pretty close relationship; that's undeniable, especially after the photo they sent to the group chat… What's next? Ah, the party on Wednesday…awesome." Mackenzie rolls his eyes.

"That is going to be hard, seeing them together…Laughing, maybe holding hands…Should I not go to the party?... Do I really want to end up like Honey? Pushing everyone away?...No, I gotta go; Bingo said it. I have a lot of dogs supporting me in this; besides, she said there is still a chance, a chance that's fading fast.

"That means I have to act fast…but how?"

"Be smart…" Mackenzie recalls something his father said days ago "Think, Mack… What's the smartest thing you can come up with?... Let's see…I can't declare my love to her right now…She will think I'm desperate and leave me… The next time I will see her is at the party… Everyone is going to be there… The kids included…Bluey's house…Knowing her, that means no alcohol… THAT'S MASSIVE. Definitely going to help me not lose it like today, although I lost it without alcohol…bruh."

"Go back to the party, kids included. When was the last time we had a party with everyone included… What did we do that day at the previous year's end-of-school party at this park? ... Eat... Play... Cricket... Soccer... Karaoke... What was I doing that day?"

"Oh!" Mackenzie's eyes snap open. "I spent most of the time with Bluey…of course, with so many things going on, Bluey and I decided to stick together."

"If this party is going to be anything like that party…Probably, I'm going to stick to Bluey…But Jean-Luc will also be there, and he will probably be like a kid at a proper high school party… sticking to the people, he knows best…Bluey... I see now."

"If I want any chance with Bluey, I gotta follow my father's advice and show Jean-Luc Bluey is off-limits. If I stay with her the entire party and be the friends we always are, that will send a clear message to Jean-Luc despite telling me he is uninterested in her."

Mackenzie looks at the branches above him and thinks, "I know what to do."

---

Lila's room*

Got a figure like a pin-up,

Got a figure like a doll

Don't care if you think I'm dumb.

I don't care at all.

Candy bear

Sweetie pie

Want to be adored

I'm the girl you'd die for.

The loud song coming from Bingo's phone bounces off the walls of the pink room. Bingo is behind the Maltese, passing a comb through the back of her head on top of the massive bed. All of this happens while Lila texts a friend on her cellphone.

I'll chew you up and

I'll spit you out.

'Cause that's what young love

Is all about

So pull me closer.

And kiss me hard.

I'm going to pop your bubblegum heart.

"Hey, Bingo?" Lila calls as her head goes back and forth with each comb passing.

"What!?..." Bingo shouted up, unable to hear her

I'm Miss Sugar Pink.

Liquor

Liquor lips

Hit me with your sweet love.

Steal me with a kiss.

I'm Miss Sugar Pink.

Liquor

Liquor lips

I'm going to be a bubblegum bitch.

I'm going to be a bubblegum bitch.

Lila picks up the red Heeler's phone and shuts the song down to talk to her. "I just finished talking to Missy; no one is mad at Mack anymore."

"Good, Mack owns us for this one."

"Yeah…Are you excited about starting high school?"

"Besides the fact that I'm going to be dealing with 'Diamond the crazy bitch' again. I'm actually looking forward to beginning." Bingo explains as she keeps working on Lila's backhead fur.

"Yeah! I can't wait…" Lila exclaims cheerfully. "Has anyone caught your eye yet?"

"Did you take lessons from Jack's how to be annoying school?" Bingo leans to her left and looks at Lila with a frown.

"Nope, just saying. There is nothing more romantic than a high school relationship."

"I guess…" Bingo leans back to keep working with her comb. "No, no one has caught my eye yet."

"Well, at least we can go to the parties; maybe we can meet someone there."

"Lila…" Bingo looks to the ceiling, ruffled. "I'm not interested in that."

"Huh, why not?"

"Because I don't want to go back home drunk up to my head like some of the boys and girls Bluey mentioned last year. Besides, I'm not ready yet."

"You have a point."

"I just don't want to step into Southern Starts and get into a relationship immediately. I gotta get comfortable and get good grades first; PLUS, I gotta train for my first field hockey season."

"True, true, I believe you will do well."

"Thanks, Lila," Bingo says as she continues to work with the comb behind Lila's head. After a few passes through her fuzzy fur, she whispers, "Do you think they are right?"

"Huh, what are you talking about?"

"That it's time to let it go? To allow Bluey to date Jean-Luc?" Bingo voices her thoughts.

"Yeah, but I kinda want to follow what Rusty said." Lila Speaks: "To be loyal to Mack until Bluey finally chooses someone."

"Yep," Bingo says, discouraged.

"Soooo, what do you think of Jean-Luc?"

"Huh." Bingo let go of the comb to talk. "What do you mean?"

"I guess you already met him in the camp. I want to know more about him before Bluey's party."

"Yeah, it was days ago that I met him…I literally met him when I collided with him."

"Really?"

"Yeah, my heart skipped a beat when he grabbed my arms to ensure I didn't fall over. He has pretty eyes, I must admit."

"Huh?" Lila raises an eyebrow before continuing, "Tell me more."

"He is gentle, well-kept," Bingo keeps telling with a lost look over Lila's head. "He also plays hockey. He is even on his high school team; he seems like a really accomplished guy."

"Sounds like someone interesting enough to spend time with."

"Well…I figured that when I spent time with him at the camping site."

"Yeah…Do you think he is cute, Bingo?" Lila asks away.

"..." Bingo stayed quiet, still looking lost and dreamy over Lila's head until she finally answered, "...Yeah, he is cute."

"Oh... awesome. I can't wait to meet him in person," Lila says, but a dark, troubling mental shadow covers her face as she quickly concludes.

The dark blue Labrador of Jean-Luc has caught Bingo's eyes.

Without wanting to

She found herself in the same position as Mackenzie.

Notes:

Shoutout to my sister (If she ever reads this) for being an exemplary sister and annoying the crap out of me with her videos. It really inspired me to change how Mackenzie's pov chapters start and I realized I can tell more of Mackenzie and the rest of the characters' stories this way

References…finally

Green and yellow plane: P40 Warhawks…nuff said and yes, a plane from the Flying Tigers is in the museum in Perth harbor

Bluey's crush on Lucky: It's from a deleted scene in which a drawing of Bluey and Lucky holding hands appears. Considering this is a children's series, it makes sense why they deleted it.

Bingo's "pull Rusty's dick out of your mouth": SPOILERS for Deadpool and the Wolverine. In the Latin American dub of the movie, Kidpool is voice by the same kid who voices Bingo, that is why there has been a lot of fanarts with Bingo being dressed as Deadpool.

Jean-Luc's phone ringtone is Umbrella by Rihanna from the last chapter…yeah, I probably should make him change the ringtone in the next chapter

The song in the last scene is "Bubblegum bitch" by Mariana and the Diamonds, the anthem for Bingo in this story, I already have an anthem for Jean-Luc and Bluey, but im still deciding which should be Mackenzie's anthem.

Until next time

Chapter 11: The Glasshouse club part 1

Bluey's dream*

Inside the dark emptiness of Bluey's dream, the heeler teenager, with her shiny blue fur standing out in the black background, is working in front of a whiteboard filled with visual pictures of every moment she spent with Mackenzie, with strings attached to pushpins, moving the pictures around and the threats up and down as if she was putting together a conspiracy theory.

The teenager removes a pushpin holding a photo of Mackenzie at the camping site to grab it and move it closer to her, looking at it with a melted face of total love.

"Oh my beautiful Border Collie," the teenager whispers, moving the back of her hand across Mackenzie's face, mimicking caressing him. "One day we will be together."

"Again with the pictures, girl?" Her younger self of six years old speaks behind her

"Yes!" The teenager snaps her head behind her to look at the girl. "Don't act like im weird you are also madly in love with him."

"Yeah, you are right…" The girl looks to her left at two more whiteboards, one with seven pictures of Lucky the yellow Labrador and one with only three pictures of Winnie the brown Labrador. The girl looks back at the teenager and continues, "So, are you planning how to confess to him again?"

"Yeah," The teenager says, still working on the whiteboard she uses for Mackenzie. "I could invite him to the arcade, but we will get so competitive I could just forget it. I could also take him to a nice restaurant, but thats is something I shouldn't do, im a girl, or maybe I could walk with him in the park, but thats too basic. This needs to be special."

As the teenager keeps moving pictures around, the girl walks to be next to her to help out on a plan, but when she looks away for a moment, she hits the teenager with her elbow and asks, "What about the whiteboard over there?"

The teenager stops on her track and leans to see beyond Mackenzie's whiteboard to notice…

Another whiteboard, far from where the two were standing but close enough for them to see ten pictures attached with pushpins, seven of them of a younger Jean-Luc and three of them of the teenage Jean-Luc.

Both the teenager and the girl raised their eyebrows, and if they were connected, they moved around the board and walked towards the new board. When they reached the board with Jean-Luc's pictures, the teenager grabbed one photo of the teenage Jean-Luc, and the girl grabbed one photo of the boy Jean-Luc.

Without saying a word, they looked at each other briefly before looking at the board again and started to work together, moving Jean-Luc's pictures and threads around the board.

---

Two days later*

Bluey's home*

"ALRIGHT!" Bluey storms out of the bathroom, looking all tidy and ready to party all night and says to herself. "Time to party blue girl!"

It's been two days since Bluey and Jean-Luc hung out in the city center. Two days of planning, messaging, and preparations to give Jean-Luc a proper welcoming party, all of that comes down to Wednesday's sundown. It is 6 p.m., a mere hour before the orange sky changes to the darkness of outer space, the perfect time to check how the party preparations are going.

Bluey walks to the kitchen and finds her mother cutting ham and salami on a wooden board to prepare a massive charcuterie tray, the perfect party snack for the huge number of dogs coming in. "How is everything going Mum?" Bluey asks.

"So far so good" Chili says putting the knife away to talk to her daughter. "We should have enough for the whole party."

"Awesome" Bluey says as she turns to the balcony.

"Hey!" Chilli calls her, making Bluey turn herself to her voice and say, signaling quotation marks at the end with her hands, "Do you want me to prepare my 'Lemonade'?"

"No," Bluey turns down the request, shaking her head. "I don't want to send Indy to the hospital, and I don't want to be responsible if Bingo or any of their friends have their first drink on us."

"Ok, fair enough." Chili understandably nods as she grabs the knife to continue cutting the ham.

"Besides…" Bluey walks towards the Balcony while still looking at her mom. "Your lemonade is really, really, really strong, DAD!" Bluey calls his father, lunging and leaning on the wooden guard. "HOW ARE THE LIGHTS GOING!?"

In the backyard, Bandit is on a stepladder in the middle of the yard, setting up light balls that are hanging on top of the green field by a thread. Trying to set up the atmosphere of 'the best night of their lifes' into the party "ALMOST DONE BLUEY!" Bandit answers back.

"BINGO!" Bluey turns her head towards her sister, who is standing in front of a table with a laptop, a gaming console with its virtual reality goggles, and a projector aimed at a large white screen, generally used if the Heelers have a big sports party like the classic Marrons vs. the Blues or whenever the family has a karaoke party with their friends. "HOW IS THE PROJECTOR GOING ON!?"

"IN SHAMBLES" Bingo answered back, looking behind her to see her sister up top. "NONE OF THIS IS WORKING AS IT SHOULD BE."

"YOU GONNA HAVE TO WAIT TILL ONE OF THE BOYS ARRIVE!" Bluey shouted back

"Pfff." Bingo rolls her eyes back to the laptop. "I don't need no man. You can do this girl" she whispers to herself as she continues to work on the electronics on the table.

DING*

The house's bell sounds off, causing Bluey to raise her ears. "They are here," she thought as she turns around to leave the balcony and kitchen.

"Wait, that bell means?..." Chilli asks as a rushed Bluey goes by

"YEAP!" Bluey replies, walking fast to the stairs and going fast down the steps until she finds herself in the foyer where the main door is. Bluey grabs the doorknock, twists it to open the door, and finds, as planned beforehand, a Border Collie and a dark blue Labrador with orderly and clean furs. "MACKENZIE, JEAN-LUC!"

Before any of the guys could greed back, Bluey lunges into both of them and hugs them simultaneously. Bluey was hugging Mackenzie with her right arm while she was hugging Jean-Luc with her left arm. "Glad to see you again guys."

"Me too," Jean-Luc smiles happily while he puts his right arm around Bluey's back to hug her. "I didn't know you would live so close to Mack's house."

Mackenzie moves his left arm around Bluey's back to hug her before saying, "Well, it has its perks."

When Bluey has enough of the lovely fur of Mackenzie and Jean-Luc, she takes a step back into the house and moves to the side to let Mack and Luke in. "You guys came in just in time. You guys are the first ones to arrive."

"Oh, so that means I have to personally meet everyone…Great," Jean-Luc says dejectedly as if something didn't go his way when he walks into the house with Mackenzie.

"Hey," Bluey noticed the change in tone in Jean-Luc's voice. She closes the main door and moves to the Labrador to put a hand on his shoulder. "Everything will be alright. We are really good people, right Mackenzie?" Bluey turns her head to her black-and-white best friend

"Yeah, they are all excited to meet you, Luke. I know they will all behave tonight" Mackenzie chips in his words of encouragement for the Canadian.

"Yeah, thanks, guys," Jean-Luc says as his irregular breathing comes out of his nose, showing his nervousness.

TOCK TOCK*

"Looks like the party just started," Says Bluey as the tocks on the door notify her of a new guest

Bluey moves to the door and opens it easily, showing the fluffy white fur of her long time…

"BEHIND YOU"

"huh"

"AGHHH"

"AHHHH"

"hahahahaha"

"Lucky, bastard!." Bluey tilts her body to the side to meet the face of the bad dog holding her by her hips. The yellow Labrador who sneaked up from the backyard and scared her just as she was busy with her neighbor, Lucky the Yellow Lab.

"Lucky, can you be a normal boy for once?" The female Chow Chow teenager of 17 years old, with her blue and yellow headband on her head, queries as she walks into the house

"You are asking for the impossible, madam," the 18-year-old yellow Labrador Lucky says with a smirk, still holding Bluey.

"At least can you start by letting go of Bluey? She is not your girlfriend." The Chow Chow asks again

"What's the magic word?" Lucky toys with the white dog as he gently shakes Bluey

"I will fuck you up if you don't let Bluey go" threatened the Chow Chow with a scary finger pointing at Lucky.

"Ok Ok" Lucky says scared, as he sets Bluey free from his paws.

Free from Lucky, Bluey looks behind her to see a confused Mackenzie and Jean-Luc with their eyebrows up at whatever Lucky did to her, but she still remembers the reason why they were here in the first place. "Jean-Luc, they are Lucky and Judo, my next-door neighbors."

"So this is the famous, fellow, Labrador, Jean-Luc." Lucky moves to the Canadian to shake hands with him. "It's a pleasure to meet you, mate."

"Mine too" Says Jean-Luc as he shifts his focus to the female Chow Chow

"My name is Judo." The girl slenderly extends her hand to shake it with Jean-Luc. "Unfortunate girlfriend of Lucky and Bluey's best best friend."

"Hey!" Lucky protests

"Again, with the best best friend?" Bluey thought, upset with rolling eyes

"I see what this is," Jean-Luc says as he finishes shaking Judo's hand. "An opposite attract relationship."

"Yeah, pretty much." "Yeah, it is," Judo and Lucky say as they nod simultaneously.

"Where is Chucky?" Mackenzie finally gets into the conversation

"I jumped the fence with him; he is probably talking to Bingo…" Lucky speaks as he puts his fingers together and makes them clash with each other like two dogs kissing. "...You know what's going on with those two."

"Ah…Chucky will never give up, huh?" Says Mackenzie

"Nope…" Lucky looks down defeated. "I couldn't talk him out of it."

Judo sees her boyfriend's demeanor and puts a hand on his shoulder to make him walk with her. "We are going to be in the back with Chucky and Bingo. I still gotta say hi to her."

"Sounds good. I will see you guys later," Bluey says as she sees how the couple moves to the back,

"Poor Chucky, first ever crush, and it's on a lesbian…or bisexual?"

DING*

"Nevermind" Bluey thinks as the bell rings again knocking her out of her thoughts.

Bluey moves to the door and opens it to reveal

Two female dogs, 17-year-old Dalmatian and chocolate Labrador

Chloe and Winnie. Bluey's best friends

"GIRLS!" Bluey exclaimed with her arms open and lunges forward to hug both of them just like she did with Mack and Luke, and started to do little happy jumps as all three girls giggled joyfully

After welcoming her best friends, Bluey separates from Chloe and Winne to present them to the dark blue labrador. "Girls, this is Jean-Luc, the exchanged student"

"Bonjour" Jean-Luc greeds with a waving hand

"Hi Jean-Luc, im Chloe" Says the black-spotted Dalmatian as she walks to the Labrador and hugs him. "Welcome to Brisbane"

"Thanks," Jean-Luc says as Chloe separates from him and stands aside to let her friend greed the newcomer.

"Hi, Jean-Luc," Winnie smiles happily and extends her right hand to the lightly taller than her Labrador. "I'm Winnie. It feels nice meeting another Lab."

"Nice to meet you, Winnie." Jean-Luc, with the same happiness, shakes her hand. "And yeah, the feeling is mutual."

…

…

…

Silence

For some unknown reason for Bluey, Jean-Luc, and Winnie just stayed there, looking themselves up and down like an invisible wall is in between them, with a soft and friendly smile on their faces as if they just wanted to be there forever. "What's going on?" Bluey thinks

"Ah, Winnie?" fortunately for Bluey, Chloe calls her out. "Let's go."

"Oh!" Winnie finally reacts. "Yeah, im coming."

Winnie walks past Jean-Luc, and if an eye magnet is located in Winnie's body, Jean-Luc keeps looking at her as she goes to the back.

"That was weird," Thinks Bluey as she watches Winnie and Chole go to the back. However, she feels something isn't right, as if something is out of place; it wasn't essential for Bluey, but at the same time, it was bothering her, like an itchy sensation she doesn't even know where it is

"HEY!"

A shout makes all three dogs turn to the open door to see five dogs at the entrance: one Dachshund Sausage dog with his characteristic green and yellow hat, one English Bulldog holding a set of car keys, and three Schnauzer color black, dark grey, and grey.

"No party is complete with everyone's favorite sausage dog," the 17-year-old black and brown long dog says smugly as he walks in with his thumbs aimed at himself.

"Snickers!" Bluey moves to his friends and hugs him as the four other dogs move to enter the house

"Sorry for taking so long" the 17-year-old English bulldog says, passing by Bluey and Snickers to greet the Border Collie. "Picking up Snickers is not easy."

"No worries" Mackenzie high-fives the bulldog and the three Schnauzers. "We just got started."

After Bluey stops hugging Snickers and Mackenzie finishes greeting his friends, Bluey turns to Jean-Luc and says "Jean-Luc, this is Snickers, Winton, Joe, Adam, and Dan."

"Nice to meet you, Winton," Jean-Luc greets them with a handshake as they all pass him one by one. "Nice to meet you, Snickers. Nice to meet you, Joe. Nice to meet you, Adam. And nice to meet you, Dan."

After the five dogs shake their hands with the Labrador, Bluey says, "Chloe, Winnie, Lucky, and Judo are already in the back. Oh, and Adam, can you help Bingo set up the projector?"

"Sure thing Bluey" Adam, one of the Terriers, says, still walking with his brothers and friends to the backyard.

"Well…"Bluey closes the main door "So far, I think it's safe to say everything is going well."

"Yeah" Jean-Luc says with a nervous smile. "I might need a list cuz I have to remember a lot of names."

"Just…" Mackenzie nudges the Labrador to grab his attention. "Do the old reliable and call us by our breed."

"Isn't it offensive?" Jean-Luc looks at his housemate with a scowl on his face

"Only if we let it be." Mackenzie deride it by shrugging his shoulders

"I can just tell them to give you a break," says Bluey. "We are kind enough to understand your position."

DING*

"Uh," Bluey says, looking behind her at the sound of the bell again. "Who is it now?"

Bluey…again… turns around to open the door and see

A 15-year-old male blue merle Corgi and a 15-year-old male white with brown on his back Borzoi, standing back to back in front of the door

"Prepare for trouble…" the Corgi announce, with a relaxed hand on his hip and an extended arm with a hand forming a pistol aiming at Bluey.

"Make it double…" the Borzoi repeats the same position as the Corgi, a hand pistol aiming at Bluey.

BANG*

Bluey SLAMS the door close in front of the two dogs and whispers as low as the laws of sound allow "Dumb kids…"

DING*

"Ughhhh." Without any other remedy, Bluey opens the door to see the dogs again.

"That wasn't nice" the Corgi innocently says with a finger aiming at Bluey with the Borzoi next to him shaking his head.

"Aiming imaginary pistols at me like that Turk in the Olympics while role-playing as team Rocket is not cool. It's DUMB" Bluey criticized them with an angry frown, wrinkling her eyebrows. "I told you guys to behave, and that's exactly what you guys will do tonight."

"Ok, ok," the Corgi says defeated, with his surrendering hand slightly up as he and the Borzoi walk into the house.

After the two dogs get in, Bluey closes the door and points at them while looking at Jean-Luc. "The Corgi is Banjo, and the Borzoi is Felix."

"Nice to meet you guys," Jean-Luc says as she shakes Banjo and Felix's hands.

"You look more purple in real life" Commends Felix as he finishes shaking Jean-Luc's hand.

"Dark blue…" Jean-Luc says in between his teeth with angry, half-closed eyes

"What's the difference?" Banjo asks with the total nerve in the world

"None!" Bluey shouts, gaining the two boys' attention. "Just go to the back. Bingo and Chucky are there!"

"Chucky hitting on Bingo again?" Says Felix as he and Banjo start walking to the back. "I'm not missing this!"

With Banjo and Felix far enough from the main entrance, Mackenzie comments, "Sometimes I wish Bingo could just hit them with a bat."

"Uh huh" Bluey nods

DING*

Without saying another word, Bluey turns around and opens the door to find

The soldiers of the club, Rusty and Jack, with their sisters Dusty and Lulu, and a 17-year-old female Afghan hound behind them called Indy. A long-haired dog with bands of several colors holding it together, a pair of dream catchers hanging from her ears, and a bandana on her forehead with a flower pattern of bright colors are typical of the hippie nature of her family. The hound also has a necklace hanging from her neck with a pink crystal, a rose quartz. A crystal Rusty gifted to her on her birthday years ago

"The calvary is HERE!" Jack shouts out to the sky

"Good, Cuz I got Bingo dealing with Chucky, Banjo and Felix in the back" Bluey says, looking at Dusty and Lulu with her thumb signaling behind her.

"Poor Bingo" Dusty says, letting her shoulders drop.

"We gotta help her!" with enthusiasm, Lulu cried out with her first up before marching fast, passing Bluey and Jean-Luc with the sole objective of helping Bingo.

Lulu didn't say anything to Dusty, but the young female red kelpie followed her best friend into the house towards the backyard.

"Now those are friends that are worth gold" Rusty says, looking at her sister and her friend go.

"Yeap," Jean-Luc agrees, looking at the two girls behind him.

"Jean-Luc…" Bluey says, turning to the Labrador. "They are Rusty, Jack, and Indy. The girls who took off are Dusty and Lulu, but I'm pretty sure they will greet you later."

"It is a pleasure to finally meet you, mate." Rusty is the first one of the trio to shake Jean-Luc's hand

"Private Jack Terrier reporting for duty, sir!" Jack speaks performing a military salute before shaking his hand

"Nice to meet you, Jean-Luc," greets Indy, giving Jean-Luc a quick hug. "I'm really happy I get to meet you without alcohol around, hehe."

"Yeah, me too…" Jean-Luc separates from Indy "...I don't drink alcohol, and the exchange program forbids me to do so anyways."

"Well, glad to hear we are on the same boat" Indy says

"Ok, with introductions out of the way" Mackenzie leans in between the five dogs. "You guys better help Bingo in the backyard. Dealing with the mortal combo of B, C, and F is not easy."

But when Mackenzie finished speaking, Bluey noticed he quickly blinked his right eye to Rusty. She is not the smartest in the world, but she is not dumb enough to understand that Mackenzie is in the middle of something.

"Oh yeah," Rusty says as if he understands Mackenzie's blink. "We will be with Bingo." And with that and leaving a confused Bluey behind, Rusty, Jack, and Indy make their way to the backyard

"What was that?" Bluey thinks, moving forward to close the door again. "Should I bring it up to Mackenzie?"

But as Bluey touches the doorknob to close the door.

"OIIIII! WAIT FOR US!"

A female cries out, making Bluey look to where the voice is to find…

Three 15-year-old female dogs walking to the door: A grey and white Siberian Husky, a Purple and light brown Shiba Inu with blue glasses, and a dark grey and white short hair Alaskan Husky

Sadie, Juniper, and Harley

"DON'T CLOSE THAT DOOR YET!" Sadie screams again to Bluey, picking up the pace to get in the house faster.

"Hi girls." Bluey let go of the doorknob and step aside, leaving the path clear for the girls

"Hi, Bluey," Sadie walks in

"Hi, Bluey," Juniper walks in

"Bluey…" the female Alaskan Husky stops in front of the Heeler with her palms on her sides and standing upright, looking at Bluey straight into her eyes

"Harley…" Bluey says her name, steps back, and mirrors Harley to bend forward from her hip at the same time as her, still with her hands on her side, back straight, and looking straight down without establishing eye contact with the other's dog face…a textbook Karate greeting

When Bluey and Harley straighten back up, Bluey looks at Jean-Luc. "They are Juniper, Harley, and Sadie."

"Nice to meet you, Juniper," Jean-Luc greets and shakes her hand.

"Nice to meet you, Harley."

"Nice to meet…" Jean-Luc stops on his track when he is about to shake hands with the husky. His open palm changes to his index pointing at her, and asks "Do you usually have moments of 'Empty head Husky?'"

"Ahhh…" Sadie moves her eyes around to think of an answer while her hand is still hanging up, expecting the Labrador's handshake. "Yeah?"

When he heard Sadie's answer, Jean-Luc slowly changed the pointing finger to the open palm again to finally shake her hand, and in the middle of the ups and downs of his hand with her's, Jean-Luc says slowly "You are I, are going to hang along just fine."

"PERFECT!" Exclaimed Sadie, wagging her tail really fast as if somebody had infused a dose of energy that needed to burst somewhere.

After shaking hands with the three girls, Bluey says after closing the door, "Most of the guys are in the back. Mum prepared a tray with ham, salami, and cheese. Also, on purpose, Juniper, where is your brother?"

"Take a guess." The Shiba Inu of Juniper rolls her eyes at the question.

"With Lily?"

"Yeap…They are preparing for their next year of university together."

"How cute…" Mackenzie adds out of nowhere

"Enough talking about Oliver and Lily!" Sadie gets in the exchange. "I WANT SALAMI!" screaming out loud, and with her fist up, Sadie trots to the backyard with Juniper and Harley behind her.

"Yeah…" Jean-Luc says, looking to where the girls walked while hearing the screaming of the Huskey in the background. "(Just like Louis)."

DING*

"If my memory doesn't fail me." Bluey moves to open the door. "Almost everyone is here."

Bluey opens the door again to find

17-year-old brown Chihuahua, a pink fur Poodle, and 15-year-old pomeranian

Pretzel, Coco, and Pom Pom

"Hi guys…"

"JEAN-LUC!…" Coco screams, interrupting Bluey with her arms extended as she walks into the house to hug the Labrador. "Oh it's a pleasure to finally meet you."

"Ah…Nice to meet you too?" Jean-Luc uncomfortably says with a cheek half closing his right eye while slowly hugging Coco

"Ugh," Bluey grunts and frowns at the sight of the poodle and Labrador together after closing the door. Ever since the words of an exchange student coming to their high school reached Coco's ears, she has always taken every advantage to call dibs on dating him in a competition in which only Winnie is involved. It shouldn't surprise Bluey that she is behaving like that, but Still, an itchy and confused sensation under her skin crawls around, begging her to do something.

"Hi, guys," Pretzel greets her and Mackenzie, barely getting Bluey to get her eye off Coco and Jean-Luc to occasionally look at him while he was talking.

"Hi, Pretzel, Hi Pom Pom." Mackenzie greets the two dogs with his fist and asks the Chihuahua, "Have you started to drive yet?"

"Yeah," Pretzel nods. "But I still have to drive with my mum for five more months; I managed to pick up Coco and Pom Pom, and when we arrived here, my mum drove the car home."

"He almost crashed into another car and drove through a stop sign." the Pomeranian, big enough for her arms and legs to appear out of the big white fluffy fur, shamefully adds with a thump, aiming at Pretzel next to her.

"I'm still a work in progress." Pretzel shrugs

"Well, most of the guys are already in the back. We are still waiting for Lila, Dougie, Buddy, Missy, the Cavalier sisters, the Jasper 'brothers', and Honey" Mackenzie says, counting with his fingers.

"Great!" Pom Pom exclaimed happily, turning her look to the poodle still hugging Jean-Luc. "Coco, let's go!"

"Ugh," Coco growls under her breath to force herself to get off Jean-Luc and says, "See you in the back, pretty boy."

"Uh," Jean-Luc doesn't react vocally, but he waves goodbye while Coco, Pretzel, and Pom Pom walk to the backyard. When the three…when Coco is far enough from him, he asks Bluey and Mackenzie, "Is it normal for her to greet newcomers like this?"

"I, dont, know?" Mackenzie responds unsurely of what he is saying

"Just…If she ever gets too far, just call me…" Bluey says with a lower angry pitch, unknowingly leaking her anger through her words "... I will deal with her."

"Yeah" Jean-Luc nods. "I will"

DING*

"Almost there, Bluey" The blue heeler thinks as she yet again moves to the door to open it and find

15-year-old light brown Pug and black and brown Aussie terrier

Buddy and Missy

"Hi guys…" Bluey greet the two friends of Bingo, trying her best not to sound angry

"Hi, Bluey" Missy's shy words come out of her mouth as she waves her hand.

"Salutations, Bluey." Buddy tips his imaginary hat to appear respectful.

Bluey steps aside to let the two dogs in. "Jean-Luc, Buddy, and Missy, more of Bingo's friends."

"Nice to meet you Missy." Jean-Luc shakes hands with Missy

Nice to meet you 'Bauddy.'" Jean-Luc shakes hands with Buddy.

…

…

"Uhhhhh" Buddy yanks his hand out of Jean-Luc's hand. "It's Buddy, not Bauddy" The Pug says annoyed.

"Bauddy" Jean-Luc repeats.

"Buddy"

"...Bauddy"

"Buddy!" The Pug says exasperated, trying to get the Labrador to say his name right

…

…

…

"Bauddy?" Jean-Luc raises an eyebrow

"Ughh"

"I think…" Mackenzie speaks. "It's just Luke's accent. Days ago, while I was showing him the city, he referred to someone as Bauddy instead of Buddy."

"Yeah…" Bluey says, thinking of what her secret crush said. "...Makes sense, considering his first language is French."

"Maybe…" Jean-Luc says, his inquisitive eyes looking up. "We call each other 'Bauddy' a lot in Canada, especially in my games."

"Oh, that makes sense," Buddy says, with Missy next to him nodding.

"Most of the guys are in the back. I got Bingo setting up the V.R. goggles to play something." Bluey says briefly looking at where the Backyard is

"Great!" Missy exclaimed, walking to the backyard with Buddy. "See you guys later."

After Buddy and Missy walk far enough, Jean-Luc turns to Bluey and Mackenzie and says "Bauddy…Thats a peculiar name."

"Yeah, Sometimes I would forget thats his real name" Mackenzie says

"Even Bingo doesn't know why his family named him like that" Bluey says lightly, shrugging her shoulders. "I guess cuz is easy to remember, but he still likes to be called Buddy."

"Ugh, why do I feel like you are throwing shade at me for calling myself Mack?" Mackenzie drops his shoulders and tiredly looks up as if Bluey's words struck a nerve in him

"What?" Bluey thinks "He wants to talk about it again? Not tonight my love."

"Thats just you, Mackenzie." Bluey says as she crosses her arms over her chest and faces the Border Collie

"You know how I feel about being called Mackenzie." The border Collie says faintly still looking up, but moves his eyes to look at Bluey

"Well, too bad," Bluey leans to Mackenzie with her hands on her hips and mockingly says, moving her bum side to side, "'Mackenzie, Border, Collie."

"Stoppit," Mackenzie jokingly says as he stops looking up to see Bluey. Her charm works like a charm.

"Uh,Uh," Bluey casually and with a sass waves her finger at him. "You know I love saying your name."

"But isn't it better if I also enjoy being called by my preferred name?" Mackenzie questioned with an eyebrow raised

"Nope," Bluey rapidly shakes her head before continuing "Mack doesn't hit the same as Mackenzie."

"Pfff," Mackenzie blew raspberries while looking away from Bluey. "Sometimes I can't deal with you."

"If you are not dealing with me, you are going to…no, you WILL be dealing with Bingo. And we both know Bingo will not give you a break."

…

…

…

Mackenzie looks back at Bluey, snaps his finger once, and points at Bluey, "Touche."

"Hahaha," Bluey laughs. She won this round against Mackenzie. "There is a reason im your best friend, Mackenzie."

"I wish I didn't say that," Bluey briefly thinks.

"Yeah, you are." Mackenzie looks at her, noticeably more at peace and with those eyes that Bluey can rely on to be calm, eyes that can stir up a lot of things inside Bluey: nervousness, openness, and most importantly…Love

"Don't worry, Bauddy," Jean-Luc says after witnessing Mackenize and Bluey's scene. "I can still call you Mack."

"Thanks, mate" Mackenzie talks back with one thumb up.

"Hmph." Bluey looks at Jean-Luc with a stare of total death and destruction…inheritance by her mother

"Oh shit" The Labrador looks away to avoid looking at Bluey. Despite the Labrador and the Heeler's relationship, even Jean-Luc is not safe from Bluey's death stares.

DING*

"We are not done yet, guys." Bluey changes her face to a more relaxed one, moves to open the door, and finds…

Four 15-year-old dogs

A male black and brown Rottweiler with one arm hugging over the shoulders of a female Cavalier Spaniel

A female white and brown Cavalier King Charles Spaniel hugging the Rottweiler surrounding his chest and belly

A male black and brown Doberman also with one arm hugging over the shoulders of another female Cavalier Spaniel

And finally, a black, brown, and white Cavalier King Charles Spaniel hugging the Doberman surrounding his chest and belly.

Jasper W, Bentley, Jasper G, and Zara

The Cavalier sisters and the Jasper brothers. Who are not brothers but best friends.

"Wow, Wow, Wow!" Bluey reacts to seeing the two couples together before asking, "What did I miss?"

"Ahhhh…Surprise!" All four dogs exclaimed shamefully

"Ahhh, ok… 'the Cavalier Sister dating the Jasper brothers' was not on my bingo card this year," Bluey says

The commotion caused by Bluey caused Mackenzie to walk to the door frame to see what was happening. "Huh, I'm actually amazed you guys didn't do this sooner, considering you four always spend time together."

"Yeah, I thought so too" Says Jasper W, still with one arm over Bently's shoulders

"We talked things out, and we decided to give it a chance," Says Jasper G, still with one arm over Zara

"We talked about this privately. I talked to W while Zara talked to G, and it looks like we are all on the same page," Says Bently, letting go softly of Jasper W

"Yeah," Zara let go softly of Jasper G. "this isn't a Poly relationship if thats what you are thinking."

Bluey and Mackenzie looked at each other in awe before they stepped aside to let the two couples in. "He is Jean-Luc, the exchange student, and almost everyone is in the back," Bluey announced as they entered the house.

With the four teenagers greeting Jean-Luc inside, Bluey takes advantage of being under the door frame to walk out and breathe a much-needed fresh air from her neighborhood. She notices that the orange sky is transformed into a lightly black sky projecting onto the houses, making the street lights go on with its shining peaceful light.

"Impressive," Bluey thinks as she walks to the guard on the veranda of her home. She sees Rusty's red sedan and Winton's white SUV parked in front of the house. The blue Heel puts her arms on the wooden guard and reflects in her mind, "These kids got a better love life than me, just…wow."

"They are growing up," Mackenzie speaks, catching Bluey off guard as he moves to be next to her.

"Yeah, I know…" Bluey says, still looking at the street in front of the house "I knew they hang out a lot, but I wasn't expecting them to actually date each other."

"Uh-huh," Mackenzie hums, looking at the street before him. "Hey, about what happened a minute ago? Sorry for bringing up the name thing again."

"Don't sweat it, Mackenzie," Bluey says, pushing herself to stand up and look at him. "I know you secretly like that I call you by your real name."

"Just a little bit," Mackenzie jokes, looking at her, still with his forearms on the guard, while showing her his index and thumb close to each other.

"Mackenzie, don't lie to me" Bluey frowns.

"Ok," Mackenzie looks down defeated "I like it."

Bluey smirked and could have joked further with the Border Collie. But the sound of a vehicle approaching her homemade made Bluey and Mackenzie turn their sights onto the street to see a white sedan stooping next to Rusty and Winton's cars.

From the car, a white Maltese steps off from the front seat, and a brown-fur Cavapoo gets out of the back seat.

Lila and 15 year old Dougie

"Remember!" Bluey could even hear Shaila's voice from the veranda. "No alcohol, you are not ready for it."

"I know mum" Lila says, holding the door to speak to her mother. "Bluey doesn't even serve beer at her parties."

"Huh." Bluey felt a proud wave running through her veins; the reputation of being a responsible girl among the parents of the group sounded really good in her head

"OK, call me if you need me to pick you up," Shaila says for the last time before Lila closes the door to send her mom on her way home.

With her mom driving away, Lila turns to Dougie to walk together. But while walking, Doguie says, "Remember what we talked about, right?"

"Uh huh" Lila nods before looking at the veranda to see Bluey and Mackenzie. "Hi guys!"

"Hi Lila, Hi Dougie," Bluey greeted the two dogs as they walked up the small set of stairs. "How is it going?"

"Good," Lila says, already in front of Bluey and Mackenzie with Dougie beside her. "Excited to party"

"Wonderful," Bluey says. "Jean-Luc should be in the foyer."

"Alright," Lila says, letting Bluey and Mackenzie enter the house first. She also nudges Dougie and says, "Ok. It's time for your number."

"Oh, this is going to be fun," Doguie says, putting both his hands behind his ears; he grabs two brown devices and puts them in the pockets on his hip.

In the foyer, Jean-Luc was browsing his cell phone until he heard Bluey say, "Jean-Luc, they are Lila and Dougie, Bingo's best friend."

Bluey and Mackenzie step aside to let Lila greet the Labrador. "Hi, Jean-Luc, it's a pleasure to meet you."

"Mine too," Jean-Luc shakes hands with Lila, and when he separates his hand from her, he finds the Cavapoo in front of him with a smile and a tail wagging. "Nice to meet you Dougie"

Jean-Luc extends his hand to Dougie, but the Cavapoo, still maintaining that smile and tail wagging, looks at Jean-Luc's hand briefly before looking at him again and shaking hands with the Labrador.

"You should ask him about hockey," Lila says, putting herself next to Jean-Luc."He is a really big fan of the North American Hockey League."

"REALLY?" Jean-Luc's eyes widen, and his tail wags before asking "What's your favorite team in the league!?"

…

…

…

"The Knights!? The Boulders!? The Aviators!?"

…

…

…

"I swear if you say you are a Red Jacket fan, I ain't speaking to you!"

…

…

…

"Do you even understand me?" Jean-Luc asks with dropped shoulders and a joy that left a while ago

Still smiling and moving his tail, Dougie starts moving his hands and fingers, making signals and shapes.

"(Shit) I failed hand signal class last year. What is he saying?" Says Jean-Luc, looking around, feeling little by little the desperation filling him up

"Even if you know sign language, it will not help you because we use ASLAN instead of ALS. Here, let me translate," Lila says before raising her hand and lifting two fingers as if she is signaling 'two' and shakes it lightly.

Doguie stops signaling after seeing Lila shake her two fingers. He lowers his hands, raises them back up, and starts signaling with Lila translating for Jean-Luc ["Hi, my name is Dougie Cavapoo. I like spending time with my mother, I like turtles, and I love spending time with Bingo and Lila."]

"Okayyyyyy." Jean-Luc slowly moves his face away from Dougie, keeping his sight on him. Weirded out about the situation until he looks straight at Lila next to him with an annoyed frown. "Why did you tell me to talk to him if he is deaf?"

Lila rolls her eyes towards Dougie and blinks one eye.

With the signal received, Dougie got the two brown hearing aids for his cochlear transplants from his hip and set them up on his ear before speaking. "And also, I started to hear three years ago."

"WHAT!?"

"Hahahahahaha!" Dougie, Lila, Bluey, and Mackenzie laugh out loud, admiring Jean-Luc's confused face.

"Heyyyy," Jean-Luc points at Dougie with a wobbling finger, following along with the joke, "That wasn't nice Bauddy"

"Well…" Dougie raises his shoulders with a face of total smug painted on it. "I love pranking new friends with the fact im deaf without my transplants. I love the face they put on after I tell them the truth."

"Dougie, Lila, and Bingo," Bluey starts speaking to Jean-Luc. "Are the only kids in the group that know ASLAN, so if you see them signally each other"

"That means they are up to no good," Mackenzie says, pouring out his years of experience with the trio. "Trust me, I know this from experience."

"Ok…" Jean-Luc looks at Dougie again. "But isn't it offensive to joke about this?"

"Depends per person," Dougie tilts his head side to side. "...But to keep it simple, I'm the only one allowed to joke about my deafness."

"Sound fair, I guess…" Jean-Luc says unsure, slowly looking away from Dougie

"Hey, where is Bingo?" Lila asks the Heeler

"Out in the back, she is setting up the laptop to do some karaoke," Bluey says

"Great, Dougie lets go" Lila signals Doguie and walks to the backyard.

Dougie starts following Lila, but he stops for a second to look at Jean-Luc behind him and says, "My favorite team is the Portland Sea Turtles, simply because they have a Turtle as their mascot." and with that, he looks forward and keeps walking to the back.

"The Turtles…" Jean-Luc pounders with a hand under his chin. "...I can respect that."

"With Dougie and Lila here," Bluey addresses Mackenzie. "That should be everyone from Bingo's group. The only person missing is…"

"Honey…" Mackenzie finished for Bluey

"I texted her yesterday and today but haven't received an answer," Bluey starts saying, "Did you text her recently?"

"No, I mean kind of." Mackenzie shakes his head lightly. "She did leave me some cookies yesterday, but I haven't asked her if she was going to go to the party."

"Oh boy…" Bluey put a hand on her face, a poor way of coping with the emptiness and sadness she started to feel. "Do you think she is not coming?"

"Pff, let's just give it time," Mackenzie says determined.

"But she always comes in earlier. It's really weird of her to be this late."

"I know her. She will arrive." Mackenzie looks to the door, hoping the gold and white Beagle knocks on the door or rings the bell

"Well…I'm going to the back to see how everyone is doing. Are you going to stay here and wait for her?" Bluey asks

"..." Mackenzie keeps looking at the door as if the entrance would give him the answer. It looks like it worked when he looks back at Bluey and says, "...I will go with you. We can leave the door open for her."

"Alright…Jean-Luc, you coming?" Bluey asks the Labrador

"Yeah of course. Been wondering how big your house is, "Jean-Luc adds.

"Well, it's big, but let's go to the backyard," Bluey says before walking to the back with Mackenzie and Jean-Luc behind her. While walking, Bluey starts to think about Mackenzie and Honey.

Ever since the…"Incident,"... Mackenzie and Honey's relationship has grown Into a kind, gentle friendship. The cookies that Honey prepared for him are proof of that. Probably for Mackenzie, out of all the people invited, he really hopes Honey will attend the party.

Bluey never really has any reason to get annoyed by those two. Mackenzie and Honey could have dated each other a long time ago, but…considering how close they are and how much Mackenzie means to Honey to…take care of her…She knows there is little to worry about. It's just a compassionate friendship.

Bluey, Mackenzie, and Jean-Luc arrived at the backyard, a green field with a tree close by the building and strings of light balls suspended in the air, providing illumination contrasting the dark night coming from the outside. All of Bluey's friends were talking to each other near the tree, while at the table with the electronics were Bingo's friends with Mom and Dad. Even from the entrance of the backyard, Bluey could hear them talking.

"Have you tried changing the cable?" Buddy asks with his friends surrounding the table, trying to help Bingo

"Yes! Doesn't work!" Bingo screams out, on her knee and working on the cables

"Have you tried the ancient tactic of turning it off and on?" Banjo asks

"Shut up Banjo, you are not helping." Bingo bites back

And while Bingo's friends try to get the projector working, in the circle where Bluey's friends are talking, Rusty leans out of the circle and spots her with Mackenzie and Jean-Luc. "Bluey!" he shouts, making everyone in the circle stop talking and break off to walk to Bluey, forming a half circle around her. "Where is Honey?" Rusty asks

"I don't know; she doesn't respond to my messages." Bluey answers with an unsure shadow over her words

"She is not coming," Coco states. "She didn't even go to the last party."

"Chloe's party or end of the school year party?" Joe, one of the Terrier triplets, says to Coco with a doubtful frown

"BOTH!" Coco shoots back at the terrier and continues sorrowfully, "It's obvious she doesn't want anything else with us."

"She does!" Mackenzie retorts to the poodle "She is just late. I trust she is going to be here."

"How do you know she is just late?" Judo questions sadly "How do you know she isn't sleeping again?"

"I…" Mackenzie stutters, doing his best to come up with something. "...Cuz I know her, thats why."

"Bro…" Winton gets in the conversation "I know you care about Honey, but I think it's safe to assume she is not coming."

"Considering how she treated us before," Jack opinates "I wouldn't blame her if she decides not to go to this party."

"Honestly," Dan, another Terrier of the triplets, speaks, "I don't even know why she decided to rejoin the club in the first place."

"Don't be such a bad dog," his brother Joe nudges him. "If she would've disappeared, she wouldn't have contacted us."

"Are we aware!?..." Indy leans to the middle and moves her palm circularly in the middle to signal everyone, "...About what happened to her!?"

"Yes, we are!" Lucky gets in. "But she started to drift apart even before the incident!"

"That doesn't mean anything," Pretzel grunted. "It was because of him that she started to get away."

"Yeah!" Chloe agreed. "Now that he is gone, it's worth giving her a chance."

"But is she giving us a chance?" Snickers asks, raising an eyebrow

"As much as I would like to say yes," Winnie talks "I really would like her to communicate more with us besides Mack. It's not helping that she doesn't text us at All."

"She is right, you know?" Rusty says, looking at Bluey and Mackenzie "She can't keep hiding behind Mack if she wants us to forgive her."

"Im…Gonna go with Bingo," Jean-Luc says awkwardly and extends his finger to point at the other group. "I don't know why I feel this isn't my business."

"Well…" Mackenzie moves behind Bluey to put an arm over Jean-Luc's shoulders and pulls him close to him to say, "Luke, you are a wonderful, fun person to be around, and I know you're not an evil dog, but…You are right; this isn't your business."

"Yeah." "Sorry mate." "Yeah, nothing personal," the group murmurs and nods in agreement to Mackenzie

"Oh, okay. Call me when you guys are over," Jean-Luc says dejectedly as he walks to Bingo and her friends…still working on the projector.

Bluey sadly watches as Jean-Luc walks away discouraged after being passively and aggressively rejected from the conversation despite Jean-Luc offering to leave. She understands that it still hurts to be kicked out of a conversation…But she secretly agrees with Mackenzie… Honey's "situation" is not Jean-Luc's business.

"Guys..." Bluey finally addresses the group, finally by themselves and ready to hear the no official leader of the group. "I know it's been a long summer for most of us because of Honey, and I know most of us haven't seen her since last school year, including me. But she is still our friend. She still needs us."

"She's been by our side since Glasshouse eleven years ago. She's arguably one of our best friends and we are her best friends too, especially since she started to perform in front of our parents and the rest of the school. We were there on our feet and clapping for her."

"I know what she did is wrong…but that doesn't mean we should push her out; we are not them! We are not Bailey and her group. We are kinder than them, and we are not going down to their level."

"We made a promise a long time ago…that we will stick together until the end, even after graduation and beyond. We are still a group, a unit, a team, a club…we are still close friends."

Bluey extends her arms out. "And if Honey wants to move on and forget about us," Bluey drops her arms to her sides and continues humbly, "I'm fine with it…"

…

…

"Who said I'm going to forget you guys?"

"!" All sixteen dogs' ears shoot up at the sound of a gentle, half-British accent coming from behind Bluey. And she quickly turns around to find

17-year old, gold and white color Beagle, holding a black guitar case with her right hand, with her iconic teal glasses on, and a destroyed and yet hopeful smile on her face

"HONEY!" Bluey screams out with her tail wagging and sprints toward her

When the Beagle sees the heeler coming to her, Honey puts the case down and extends her arms to receive Bluey, who clashes with her, forming a tight hug. The rest of the group, except Mackenzie, didn't wait, and excitedly and cheering, they also sprinted and hugged her. One by one, all her friends formed a group hug, with Honey in the center of it receiving all the attention.

Honey, who has Bluey hugging her from the front, sinks her face into her shoulder. With a voice of a lump in her throat and tiny tears starting to come out, she screams to make sure everyone around her hears her, "I MISSED YOU GUYS."

"We missed you too," Bluey says, hugging her tighter and tighter as she waits for the guys outside to get out of the hug. When it is just her and Honey, she opens her arms, but Honey is still hugging her tight, and with her face on her shoulder, Bluey feels the tear wetting her fur. "Yeah, I get it, take your time 'Conductor tail still'" Bluey hugged her again, but this time with a hand behind Honey's head, slowly caressing her.

Bluey passed her hand behind Honey's head until she finally raised her head to reveal her teary eyes. "Sorry Bluey, im just…" Honey passes her hand through her eyes and then shakes them like a hand fan in front of her face. "Im just emotional right now."

Clap, Clap, Clap*

Bluey turns behind her to see Mackenzie slowly clapping his hands until he opens his arms out and says, "What did I tell you, huh?" Bluey looks back to Honey, who is nodding and passing her hand again through her eyes. That's when Bluey understood to step aside

With Bluey out of the way, Mackenzie gets closer to Honey, and they hug each other tight; it doesn't take long for Mackenzie to separate from Honey to put his hands on the sides of her head, put his forehead with hers and says with teary eyes "I told you im proud of you, I fucking told you, Honey. I knew you would show up."

"Yessss!" Honey exclaimed cheerfully, nodding again before whispering, "Thank you, Mack. Thank you for everything."

Mackenzie and Honey stayed still with their foreheads touching each other. The rest of the group clapped and cheered for Honey's homecoming after some of them spent a long time without seeing her. Still, Bluey just stayed there watching them together with a smile despite the thought of Mackenzie liking Honey in the back of her head. She…doesn't care at all. In fact, something was made explicit for her.

As long as Mackenzie keeps helping Honey recover

Honey will be fine

"HOORAYYYYYYY"

A scream reaches where the group is, and Bluey figures out who it is…Bingo

"TAKE THAT TECHNOLOGY, WOO HOOO"

"Looks like Bingo figured out how to make the projector work," Says Bluey, provoking The Collie and Beagle to separate their foreheads. "C'mon, you still gotta meet Jean-Luc."

"Oh, I have been waiting for this," Honey says, wiping her tears. She picks up the guitar case and walks to the backyard with her friends.

Already outside, the group found the projector working, displaying its image on the white screen while the other group with Chilli, Bandit, and Jean-Luc watched Bingo go crazy, whipping her arms around and screaming, "I TOLD YOU GUYS I CAN DO IT, TAKE THAT YOU BUM." Bingo turned to the group of her Sister's friends and continued, "I'M THE GREATEST TECNICIAL THAT EVER… HONEY!"

"Hey, Bingo," Honey says, slightly extending her arms to hug Bingo, who was coming to hug her. After the hug, Honey raises her case and taps it with her left hand. "You know what to do."

Bingo's mouth opens slowly in awe before she rotates her head to her friends and commands, "GUYS, LET GET THE DRUMS OUT HERE! WE ARE MAKING A CONCERT TONIGHT." Then she walks fast back to the house with Dougie, Lila, Banjo, Felix, and Buddy following her.

"Jean-Luc," Bluey calls the Labrador next to her parents. "This is Honey, the conductor of the school's orchestra."

Jean-Luc raises his eyebrows and walks to the Bagle to say happily, "Nice to meet you, Honey. Tommy told me good things about you and your work in the orchestra."

"(Nice to meet you)" Honey surprisingly answers in French before continuing, "I always wanted to meet a Canuck"

"Oh," Jean-Luc moves his head back and puts his hand on his chest. "Do you speak French?"

"Not really." Honey shakes his head. "Just wanted to impress you."

"Ah, I see," Jean-Luc says before pointing his finger at his mouth. "That accent, is British, right?"

"Yeah, for the king and country," Honey proudly demonstrated her British accent before continuing, "My parents are from London, but I was born and raised in Brisbane with an Australian accent. Over time, I learned the British accent from my parents."

"Well…" Jean-Luc extends his arms downwards "...You got one school year to learn what it means to be a Canuck raised in the ice of Quebec."

"Yes sir," Honey asserted with a smile.

"Well, that's everyone," says Bluey, moving next to Jean-Luc. "The Glasshouse club, what do you think?"

"Well…" Jean-Luc looks at the group of Bluey's friends standing before him."...I think this will be the best year of my life."

"YEAH," Lucky exclaimed, followed by the cheers of his friends.

After everyone cheered, Bluey said, "Let's help Bingo set up the drums. The sooner we finish, the sooner we will start the party." With that, Bluey and her friend walked to the house to help Bingo.

Maybe Jean-Luc is right.

This is going to be the best year of their lives…

Notes:

Team Rocket and the Olympics: I…For real life, put two references in the spam of 44 words. Im…Disgusting XD, Team Rocket, is from…am I even allowed to say it without getting a copyright strike? And the Turk is a reference to Yusuf Dikec's iconic stance in the Olympics. I'm declaring myself guilty of annoying people with that pose.

Rose quartz crystal means love, peace, and healing…there you go; I saved you a Google search.

Empty head Husky: I was browsing through Tik tok, and I found a Husky video with comments like, "Oh yeah, those moments of Empty head, those are the funniest." so yeah, thats Sadie's and Louis's personalities in a nutshell in this fic

Doguie's introduction: I have never thought I would get to this point…but it is a reference to my other fic, "You are not Alone," when Dougie introduces himself in math class…and yes, it is a prequel to this story

"Canuck": A slang term to refer to Canadians, especially French Canadians

Im going to try and upload a new chapter of my other story "You are not alone" ASAP Cuz I'm going on a trip for two days and that means two days out of action, but after that, brand new fic coming up before the end of the month

Feel free to leave reviews, and until next time

Chapter 12: The Glasshouse club part 2

Notes:

Can you see the tags of “Underage drinking” “Implied sexual content” and “Implied/Referenced Sex” in the tags above?

That's in full effect in this chapter.

Also, don't be an idiot and drink and drive or let others force you to drink, enjoy being sober.

*The Heeler's House*

"Guys!" Bluey shouts into the microphone, standing on the wooden bench of the tree to simulate a platform, capturing the attention of everyone present

After the arrival of all her friends, The Glasshouse Club, named after the place where they met, and after helping Bingo to lower her drum set, the preparations were already finished. The balls of lights were hanging over the patio, illuminating enough so that only the party place could be seen at night. The deli and treats are already set up, the projector and console are already on, and the dogs' spirits are sky-high after meeting the friendly Canadian Jean-Luc and the surprise appearance of Honey after a long time away from the group.

With everything ready to start, Bluey decides to start the party with a few words. Most of the group was talking to each other in the middle of the field with red cups full of soda; Bingo, Lila, and Dougie were next to the tree with the drums, Mackenzie and Jean-Luc were to Bluey's right and left but not on the wooden bench, and their parents Chilli and Bandit, were on the back porch, taking advantage of the height difference to keep an eye on the 35 dogs that are in their house.

"I'd like to start with a few words…" Bluey begins to speak into the microphone, "I know I said that this party was to welcome Jean-Luc."

"YEAH!" Lucky shouts with a fist to the sky, provoking even more Cheers and whistles for the Labrador

"(Thanks, guys), " Jean-Luc barely murmurs in French, looking away from the group.

As the celebrations die down, Bluey continues, "...As I was saying, this party is to welcome Jean-Luc…but we might as well take advantage of the party and celebrate our accomplishments."

"As you all know, this year will be our last year in high school. It's been six years since we graduated from Miss Calypso's school, and let's be honest…we had our mishaps the first two years... a lot of mishaps."

"Academically, we had our low moments."

Winton looks down sadly. His terrier brothers Joe, Adam, and Dan each place a hand on the Bulldog's shoulders.

"They made fun of us every chance they got."

Pretzel and Jack look at themselves sadly.

"Making friends was hard."

Snickers makes a fist and places it in his mouth while looking nervously at both sides.

"And if we made a friend, it was usually not for much."

Chloe inhales and rolls her head and eyes away.

"And there were quite a lot of fights."

Rusty makes a fist with his right hand and caresses it with his other hand, lowers his gaze, and moves the right side of his lips to squeeze his cheek, showing dissatisfaction

"Even between ourselves."

Indy and Coco look away to avoid looking at Judo, who is between the two, but the Chow Chow notices them and puts her arms around the two to bring them closer and make them look at her, a sign of forgiveness to the Hound and the Poodle.

"And many of us make decisions that we shouldn't when we separated…"

Now Bluey lowers her gaze with sadness, reflecting on the regrettable decisions she made in her first year in middle school, but Mackenzie, with a light elbow to Bluey's leg, gets her to react and continue.

"I think the only important thing we learned in those years is that Mackenzie's fur works as an antidepressant…"

A light wave of relieved laughter sounds among Bluey's friends.

"I took the liberty…" Mackenzie raises his voice, taking advantage of the situation to take out his phone and look something up, "...to count how many times some of you hugged me in that period of time, and Rusty is first on the table with a total of 15 antidepressant hugs."

"Hey! " Rusty shouts while all the canines laugh out loud. "I wasn't mentally well back then!"

"I noticed." Mackenzie shrugs his shoulders shamelessly.

"And I thought Bluey was going to top that list," Honey says from the side of the group, still holding her guitar case in her right hand.

"She's in tenth with six hugs," Mackenzie adds before putting his phone away.

"Let's just say that my way of dealing with depressing moments is different than Rusty's," Bluey clarifies with the microphone before continuing, "...The point is, we didn't have a great time, but there's something we did right before the end of our first year at that school…We got together…And we said we'd stay together…until the end."

"Our second year was definitely going to be the same as the first, but together, we managed to improve as a team, and in our third year, Jack would have said it better…the cavalry arrived."

"WOOHOOOOOOOOO!" Bingo shouts from the drum set with a stick in the air. Bingo's friends in the group also cheer.

"And in the year when Bingo and his friends came to our school, there…we took off, to heights we used to dream of when we first set foot in middle school."

"Rusty Kelpie, the best cricket player Brisbane schools have ever seen." Bluey points to Rusty

"Yeah!" The Club shouts.

"Honey Beagle, conductor of the orchestra. "Bluey points to Honey

"Yeah!"

"Jack Terrier, school-winning sprinter."

"Yeah!"

"Lucky Labrador, Captain of the Southern Stars, champions of the East."

"Yeah!"

"Snicker Dachshund, Everyone's favorite sausage dog at school."

"Yeah!"

"Chloe and Winnie, The Club's party girls"

"Yeah!"

"Jean-Luc… " Bluey looks down at Jean-Luc below her, "The exchange student. Ready for Brisbane?"

Jean Luc takes a second, looking at her, Mackenzie, and the group, before looking at her and saying in French with determination, "(I was born ready)

"Yes! " The group shouts anyway despite not understanding Jean-Luc.

"We have one more year ahead of us! " Bluey shouts inspiredly into the microphone. " We can do this, ONE MORE TIME!

"One more time?" Lucky asks, looking at Rusty and Jack

"One more time," Rusty and Jack say at the same time

"One more time." Chloe nods slightly

"One more time," The Terrier triplets say

"One more time… " Like the waves of a tsunami, the best friends begin to repeat with more and more force until the point where Bingo joins the chant to the tempo of the drums of his drum set.

"One more time"

"One more time"

"One more time"

"ONE MORE TIME!"

"ONE MORE TIME!"

"ONE MORE TIME!"

"HEY HEY HEY"

Out of nowhere, Banjo, the Corgi, jumps up on the bench and snatches the microphone from Bluey. "It was a very inspiring speech and everything. But before we start playing, or I don't know what the hell we'll do. I have a matter to take care of."

"Oh yeah?" Bluey asks with a raised eyebrow.

"Yeah," Banjo says before shouting into the microphone. "Where's the good-for-nothing Chucky Labrador!?"

"Here, you idiot," 15-year-old Chucky accepts the call, coming out from behind his brother with his arms outstretched. The Labrador hasn't changed much since he was 5 years old except for his hair, which covers part of his left eye. "What do you want!?"

Banjo gives the microphone back to Bluey and gets off the bench to stand face to face with Chucky, his friends surrounding the two, to hear what Banjo is going to say. "You still… owe me 5 dollars, asshole."

"What!?" Chucky exclaims, shaking his head back. "Still with that? I told you I needed a donation, not a loan."

"What do you mean donation, idiot? " Banjo says, bringing his face closer to Chucky's. "I don't remember hearing you say you need a donation. You have my 5 dollars or what, dumbass" Banjo warns

"Well, I don't have it." Chucky shakes his head. "I spent all my money taking your mother to the hotel."

"Ohhh," the men in the group react, some with a hand over their mouths and some turning away at the lack of respect, but the women roll their eyes exasperated at such antics.

"Well… there's only one way to fix this dispute," Banjo says calmly, still inches from Chucky's face.

"Talk to me, blue clown," Chucky challenges, using Banjo's nickname.

The two teenagers stay silent, looking me straight in the eyes, waiting for the other's first move. This makes Bluey and her parents nervous, who are still watching the group until Banjo raises his hand, points to the Bingo game console behind Chucky, and says, "In Fruit Ninja, whoever has the highest score wins."

"Sounds good. "Chucky says with determination.

"Alright, I'll prepare the game," Bingo announces, standing up from his drum set and walking towards the console. Amidst murmurs, many dogs head to the console and the big screen to watch the duel between the Labrador and the Corgi.

With the group focused on Chucky and Banjo, Bluey steps off the bench, gracefully dropping between Mackenzie and Jean-Luc, but she notices Honey walking in the opposite direction to the bench to sit down and place her guitar case on her lap.

"Huh?" Bluey mumbles at the strange scene, but considering that she spent the summer without seeing her, it occurs to Bluey that she has a chance to spend time with the Beagle.

Bluey moves and sits next to Honey. The latter widens her eyes in surprise and says, "Hey, Bluey."

"Hey, Honey," Bluey greets as Mackenzie sits on Honey's other side, but Jean-Luc stands next to the heeler. "First of all…" Bluey places a hand on Honey's hand that is on the guitar case and continues, "How are you?"

"Fine," Honey answers with a hopeful smile. "I feel good"

"I'm glad to hear it," Bluey says with empathy and a soft smile as she caresses Honey's hand.

"Bluey…" Honey begins to speak with resentment. "I'm sorry I didn't return your messages. I mean, I've seen them, but I never thought of answering–

"Don't worry, Honey." Bluey silences her but continues, "I know that what you went through isn't easy. Besides, Mackenzie helped us by telling us how you are."

"Yeah…" Honey looks at Mackenzie, sitting next to her. "You helped a lot."

"You're welcome, Honey," Mackenzie says humbly as she places her hand on Honey's other hand on the case. "We already said it, together until the end."

"Yeah…Thanks, guys," Honey says gratefully.

"Honey!" a scream comes from the front of the four canines. Jean-Luc, Bluey, Honey, and Mackenzie look ahead to realize that the scream came from Rusty, who is walking towards them with the screen illuminated by the projection of a virtual reality game and the screams of encouragement behind him. When he gets close enough, he continues, "How are you?"

"Fine," Honey answers, slightly moving her hands to free them from Bluey and Mackenzie to open her arms and try to hug the red Kelpie.

Rusty understands what Honey wants to do and doing the best he can. He hugs Honey, still sitting. When he separates, Rusty kneels in front of Honey and says, "I'm glad to hear it, look…" Rusty looks down sadly. "I'm sorry about what happened. If I had known before–"

"Leave it, Rusty," Honey interrupts him. "That's in the past, I'm free now. That's what matters."

"Yep. If it makes you feel better, we had a toast in your honor at Chloe's party," Rusty says.

"I know, Mack has already told me. You guys getting drunk on me isn't going to solve the problems," Honey says, shaking her head slightly. "In my case...Only time can help me get out of this hole, and I don't mind how long it takes."

"Yeah... well said," Rusty says in a low but simple voice, but as he turns his head to his right, he notices Jean-Luc listening to everything and says, "Ahhh, Bluey..."

Bluey looked where Rusty was looking to notice the Canadian, and it was there that she remembered that she had thought about it before Honey arrived.

"Honey's situation is none of Jean-Luc's business."

"Jean-Luc, could you give us a moment here?" Bluey asks, looking at Jean-Luc at his side.

"Yeah," Rusty steps in and continues with the pressure. "Chucky and Banjo are competing in Fruit Ninja and are very good at it."

"Uff," Jean-Luc looks away from the four dogs with discontent, but recovers to look at Bluey and says. "Yeah, sure…"

Jean-Luc starts walking towards the spectators in front of the screen with an indifferent face. Bluey can't help but feel sad in her chest for sending her childhood friend away and excluding him from the conversation again, but using that same sadness, she asks, "Honey, can we tell Jean-Luc what's going on?"

Honey sighs, looking ahead…and answers, "I don't know… I mean, he's going to stay here for a year, so I don't think it's necessary to overwhelm him with what's going on."

"Ok…" Bluey drops her disappointed gaze,

"I agree," Rusty concurs. "So, Honey, how was your summer?"

"It was good," Honey answers with a slight smile. "Mack taught me how to play the guitar, I taught him how to play the violin, my mom taught me how to bake cookies, and I spent time with my dad working on his new book. How did you guys do besides Chloe's party?"

"Did Mackenzie teach you how to play the guitar?" Bluey asks with a raised eyebrow.

"Yeah!" Honey quickly moves her head to look at Bluey.

"Wow," Bluey reacts and leans forward to address Mackenzie. "I didn't know you knew how to play a guitar."

Mackenzie mirrors what Bluey did and replies. "Dad and YouPaw taught me."

"Wow."

"I had a good summer," Rusty says. "Dusty is excited about her last year at middle school, and I got news from Digger and Tiny. They are going back to Brisbane for Christmas, but they told me to keep it a secret what they are going to do here."

"Oh, it's been a long time since I saw those two," Honey comments with an excited face and tail. "Is Digger still hurting from his loss against the Indian team in the cricket world cup?"

"Yeah…"

"WOW!"

The boys and girls react as the projection of virtual fruits rises and falls on the white screen from where the blue heeler is seated. The cheering caught Bluey's attention so much that she got up and said, "Im gonna see what's going on."

As Bluey walked, Mackenzie, Rusty, and Honey also stood up and walked to see the game. When Bluey got close enough, she saw the tall, dark blue labrador with the VR goggles on, extended stand, bent knees, and smoothly and forcefully slashing his hands with the motion controller to cut the virtual fruit.

"Ohh," the teenagers exclaim, raising their voices progressively as the final set of six fruits raises, hangs in the air for a second, and falls,

"AHHhh!" The teenagers react as the Canadian, from a single slash from left to right, cuts all six fruits with precision, making Jean-Luc strike a cinematic pose with his right arm extending and aiming down just like the motion controller with his sight going parallel with his right arm

Under the cheers of a crowd who witness Jean-Luc's ability in the game firsthand, the labrador drops the controller attached to a wristband on his wrist and raises the goggles to look at the crowd behind him. "That was awesome!."

"Kudos to you," Bingo approached him to put a hand on the taller-than-her Labrador's shoulder and point at the score, "you even beat my personal record."

"Bravo…" Jean-Luc personally celebrates as he takes off the VR Goggles

"That was impressive, but who won?" asks Bluey with a tone that is high enough for everyone to hear.

"Me!" announces Chucky outside the group with his thumps aiming at himself. The defeated Banjo just snorts in shame next to him.

"Ok…so what's next?" Asks Indy to the group

"Ummmmm," the whole group pounders, some of them with crossed arms, some of them with a hand on their mouths, and some others just looking around. But Bluey, while thinking about what to do, noticed how some of her friends were looking at each other with the corner of their eyes. She caught Buddy nodding to the Jasper brothers while Judo whispered in Lucky's ears.

"Ok, something is about to happen," thinks Bluey as she stands back and waits.

Luckily for her, she didn't have to wait for long.

"What about keepy uppy?" Suggested Indy

"COLD NOSE!" Judo and Lucky shout at the same time, putting a finger on their nose

"COLD NOSE!" Jasper W and Bently follow suit

"COLD NOSE!" Jasper G and Zara follow suit

"What?" Rusty and Indy react, confused

Several dogs pointed aggressively at the Kelpie and the Hound as if they caught them doing something…or something they didn't do

"FUCK YEAH!" Lucky celebrates and moves to the Jasper brothers to high-five them. "GOT THEM LOOKING!"

"Wait, what's going on?" Rusty and Indy ask, still confused, as their friends around them smile at them smugly

---

10 minutes later*

"This is outrageous!"

Rusty screams out as he sits on a chair with his back to Indy's back, who is also on a chair with a tight rope going around the couple's belly in the middle of the field. Their hands are free and over the rope with one gentleman's shoe in one hand and one heel in the other.

Jack, finishing tightening the rope in front of Rusty's chair, says mockingly, "This isn't personal 'scary red ball,'" and taps Rusty's cheek sarcastically after using his nickname.

"Fuck you," Rusty curses him as Jack walks away back to his friends, that made a big circle around the unfortunate couple in the middle.

"Alright, boys," Announces Bluey with a microphone, walking towards the tight-up couple with a stack of small rectangular papers in her other hand. "You guys know what's the game of the shoe?"

"Yeah!"

"I think so?"

"No!"

"Maybe"

"Ok…" Bluey starts explaining after hearing her friend's responses. "I got questions in these papers, and we are going to ask the lovely couple right there which side of the relationship matches with the question …and let me tell you, these questions are N.S.F.W."

"Dusty, cover your ears," Rusty screams to her sister from his seat.

"I got the bee talk four years ago; worry about your own thing." Says Dusty vainly with a laughing Lulu next to her

"Arent we supposed to play this in a wedding?" Chloe asks the brown lab next to her

"Who cares" Winnie dismisses her. "they are pretty much married right now after three years together."

"Thats not how this works," Indy complains from her seat.

"Whatever, Bluey, start" Shouted Juniper

"Ok, ok…" Bluey looks at the papers and starts, "Ok, one easy. Who made the first move?"

Rusty and Indy did not take long to answer with one gentleman's shoe up, signaling that the red Kelpie made the first move.

"Ok, I like it," Bluey says as she takes the card out and puts it on the back of the deck. "Next question. "

"Who is more adventurous?"

Rusty and Indy raise the heel

"Lovely…Who is the biggest baby when they are sick?"

"Oh boy," mourns Rusty as he and Indy raise the shoes

"REALLY?" Harley shouts as the rest of the group chuckles.

"Harley, you should know that if we get sick, we are going to suffer in bed and ask for a tombstone," Snickers answers to the Alaskan Husky.

"Shuss," Bluey silences them. "Next one…Who is a better dancer?"

"Oh," Indy reacts as she raises the heel, but Rusty raises the shoe.

"OHHHHHHH!" The group goes nuts.

"Ok, we have a problem," Bluey says as both dogs lower their shoes.

"RUSTY CANT DANCE FOR SHIT" Felix screams

"Shut the fuck up, Felix," Rusty jokingly added as some of his friends laughed.

"Next…" Bluey says, "Let's start to spice things up. Who is a better kisser?"

"Ohhhhh," under the nosy group's low grounding sound, Rusty raises his heel, and Indy raises her shoe.

"Naturally," Winton commented with shrugged shoulders.

"OF COURSE!" Sadie screams with several pieces of salami in her hand

"HEY," Bingo takes several steps toward the couple, points at them, and hollers around to talk to everyone. "I CAUGHT INDY ON RUSTY'S LAP ONE DAY IN THE KELPIE'S HOUSE, AND SHE WAS SHOWERING HIM WITH KISSES."

"I CAN SAY IT'S TRUE!" yells Lulu with a nodding Dusty next to her

"Get back to your place, Bingo," Indy talks back to the meddling Red Heeler

"DID I STUTTER?"

"Bingo…" Bluey calls her in a low voice through the microphone. When she walked right back to be next to Mackenzie and Jean-Luc, Bluey continued."Next one…Who is most likely to come to school with a hickey?"

"Oh my god." Rusty let his head fall to look down.

"NOW WE ARE TALKING!" Banjo shouts.

"ANSWER THAT!" Chucky also shouts.

"DON'T PROLONG IT ANY LONGER!" Coco also shouts, "WE KNOW!"

"Shut the fuck up bitch. You always come to school with hickeys." Indy shoots back at her best friend

"Only from Reymond, I'm not the person you think I am," Coco retorts.

"You guys better answer before you people demolish the house," reminds Bluey, making both dogs raise their heels. "Nice…Expectable, but nice…let's see." Bluey moves the card to the back to read the following question "Oh, now we are in NSFW territory…Who is the bottom?"

"Ohhhhh." The group spicily reacts as both dogs on the chair start to have extremely red cheeks on their face

"Ahhh," Indy tries to come up with something while looking at Bluey.

"Ahhh." Rusty also tries to come up with something while looking at Bluey.

"Bluey…"

"We didn't…

"We haven't 'done it,'" the couple shamefully says simultaneously.

"What!?" Adam yelled

"You kidding?" Joe Says

"B.S" Dan dismissed

"What do you mean nothing happened in the last 4 years!" Dougie chips in,

"So the 'perfect romantic couple' is actually the 'perfect romantic couple,'" Lila adds happily.

"I honestly thought you guys were more active than Mr yellow and Ms white over here," Chloe opinates

"We are not that active!" Lucky announced but quickly moved his glance to briefly look at Judo before looking forward

"Well, this could explain why Indy walks away when our girl talks get too deep," Judo says

"What girl talks!" shouted Banjo

"None of your business, Banjo." Winnie intervened. "Although you are right, Judo, it always cracks me up whenever Indy talks about Rusty with flowers and roses in her mouth, in contrast with what we talk about."

"Okay…" Pretzel looks at Winnie, weirded out like some of the guys, but he looks at Rusty and Indy to recall, "I thought you guys had done it after walking away from Chloe's party,"

"Well, we moved away from the party, but we haven't done it," Indy clarified.

"There is more to a relationship than sex, guys," Rusty also clarified.

"Leave the two poor guys alone."

Chili shouted with her mature, experienced voice from the entrance of the backyard, sitting on a chair with her legs extended, with a bow of grapes and a glass of wine in her hand, watching over the party next to her husband, who was also sitting on a chair with his legs extended, a bow of popcorn and a can of soda on the floor next to him. "The big boy Rusty is right. There is more to a relationship than hormones and intimacy." Bandit shouted too

"Thank you!" Honey says exasperatedly, throwing one dismissing hand around to the adults

"Besides, It is not polite to pry into someone's intimate life, guys." Chilli schools the teenagers

"Mom…" Bluey and Bingo shamefully roll their heads at their parents at the unsolicited lesson

"Are we gonna keep going, or are you guys gonna untie us?" complained Rusty, shaking his trapped body to get the point across

"We are gonna keep going," Bluey says as she focuses her attention on the cards to read the next question. But a confused grimace shows up instead. After reading something definitely not family"friendly, "OK, not this one," Bluey switches to the next card under…same thing, really intimate question. "Not this one."

"Next one…"

"Next one…"

"Oh my God…"

"For real life?…"

"What the…"

"Okay, we have a problem here," a disturbed Bluey says, tossing the cards over her shoulder to her back.

"In my defense," Jack defended himself with one finger up. "Bingo said not to have mercy on the questions."

"I said no mercy, not asking which page of the Kamasutra is their favorite," Bingo claps back at the terrier.

"Bingo, how the hell do you know about that?" Bluey gotcha's her sister as she crosses her arms over her chest, provoking various 'ohs' in her friends

"It's general knowledge, alright."

"Bluey!" Chilli calls her daughter. "This is one of those moments in life where you figure your little sis is growing!."

"Pffff…" Bluey looks away from her mother, taken back from what she said to her. "Ok…I got one last question for the couple. Since you idiots can't come up with something decent."

"End the nightmare, Bluey," Encouraged Indy from her seat.

"Ok…Who said 'I love you' first, and they meant it.'"

"Oh," Rusty reacts as he raises his shoe, but Indy raises her heel.

"OH, TROUBLES," Lucky commentates at the disagreement

"Rusty, explain yourself." Bluey questions

"I first said it and meant it when I confessed to Indy three years ago."

"Aww, how cute…Indy?"

"I first said it and meant it when we used to play moms and dads in Calypso's school eleven years ago."

"WHAT!?" several dogs exclaimed at the same time

"Wait, really?" Rusty does his best to look at Indy over his shoulder. "You really had feelings for me for that long?"

"Yeah…" Indy also does her best to look at him over her shoulder. "I really, really meant it when you used to go to your fake job, you lovely dork."

"AWWWWWW," the canines react in such a lovely scene.

"Aww," Bluey reacts as well with his head cocked to the side, but then turns his head to look at Mackenzie, who has a modest, relaxed face next to Jean-Luc as he watches the scene with Rusty and Indy.

"Someday, Bluey... " Thinks the Heeler with hope. "Someday…"

The shoe game reminded Bluey of something. After spending eleven years growing up together as friends, it allowed them to reach a level of trust people don't see every day. From insulting each other without repercussions to knowing secrets like Jack's ADHD to even touching on subjects embarrassing to the average person, the club shined for its unique unity both outside and inside Southern Stars.

Mackenzie nailed it. Even if they're not on the same page in the club, they always end the day laughing or sharing ice cream.

"Okay!" exclaims Jack as he approaches Rusty and begins to unmoor him. "What do we do now?

"I still suggest keepy uppy," says Indy.

"keepy uppy sounds good," agrees Pom Pom.

"I agree," Banjo announces, "but this time, can we change something?

"Tell us," Dougie says curiously.

"How about we make two teams...boys vs girls."

"Ohhhh," The group responds to the suggestion.

"I like it..." Harmonizes Winton, nodding his head slightly, "But who will be the captains?"

A giant light bulb appears over the heads of Bluey and Bingo, who turn their heads towards their parents and say at the same time, "Mom, Dad?"

After hearing Banjo's suggestion and their daughters' call, Chilli and Bandit gulp down their wine and soda to stand up and walk down the small steps to the grass.

"You're going down, Chilli," Bandit taunts his wife.

"Nu huh, you're going down first for excess calories, Bandit."

"The important thing is not down here. The important thing is up here in your head, Miss Snoopy Suitcase."

"That's why we'll win with an advantage, earthworm."

---

10 minutes later*

"How do you think this will end?" Asks Bingo next to Chucky with neighbor Wendy's fence behind them.

"Ehhhhhhhhhhhh"

Chucky looks at both sides of the backyard. On one side was Chilli's team near the house, consisting of Indy, Chloe, Coco, Judo, Lila, Bentley, Zara, Harley, and Pom Pom, while Bandit's team, which was at the other end of the yard, consisted of Jack, Winton, Snickers, Banjo, Jasper G, Pretzel, Buddy and Jean-Luc. The rest of the canines were spectators with neighbor Wendy's fence behind them, using chairs, the tree bench, or the grass to sit on.

"I think we, the spectators, are going to win," Chucky wisely says, earning an affirmative 'Uh huh' from Bingo.

"HERE..." Chilli begins her motivational speech to her women "We'll show them again that we're in charge!

"YEAH!"

"Boys," Bandit begins his speech, "Remember! Give them nothing! But take from them! EVERYTHING!"

Buddy snaps his fingers, points at Bandit, and says. "Reference to 300."

"Of course, boy." Bandi turns to face the girls with Jean-Luc at his side. "Pss Jean-Luc?

"Yes?" Jean-Luc responds with his eyes still on the girls.

"(Have you ever been in a battle like this?)" Bandit asks, demonstrating his French.

"Ahhhhhhh...(No, this is my first time) " Jean-Luc answers uncomfortably in French.

Bingo looks at YOU and says indifferently, "Welcome to the first ever men vs. women Keepy uppy battle ever seen in history...and yes, this is a regular Wednesday for me...Felix..." The tall borzoi comes up on the other side of Bingo, still looking at YOU, and raises his hand to reveal that she always had an inflated green balloon at her side. "Do the honors."

Without another word, Felix stands between the two teams and tosses the balloon into the night sky, kicking off the game. The two teams run to the other end to cover the largest possible area and propel the balloon sideways or away from the dog of the opposite sex so that the balloon falls to the ground and explodes.

As the participants propel the balloon, they jostle and joke with the music of the moment playing in the background. Bluey and the rest watch the action off to the side, but for some reason, for the Heeler, Lucky disappeared. She thought he probably went to the bathroom but is surprised when she sees him poking his head out from the driveway, waving a medium red mug. It didn't take long to see Rusty and Terrier brother Adam standing up to go with Lucky.

During the two days of preparations for the party, she was very clear about the "no alcohol at the party" rule.

She definitely had to stop whatever her neighbor was doing.

But...Some time away from the noise and jokes of the party would do her good.

Two birds with one stone

Bluey finally stands and walks gingerly among her friends until she has the coast clear and walks normally towards the backyard entrance to the inside.

With a small hop over the small steps and landing on the hardwood floor, Bluey continues walking around her house until she senses someone behind her and turns to find...

Mackenzie, a few steps away from her, had an embarrassed look on his face after being caught.

"What are you doing Mackenzie?" Bluey asks with a raised eyebrow.

"Ahhh," Mackenzie stumbles to think of something. He looks away from her and intertwines his fingers in nervousness. "Nothing. I thought you wanted some fresh air, and I wanted to join you."

"Well...yes, I want some fresh air and to get away from the noise, but I'm chasing Lucky, Rusty, and Adam. I think Lucky brought beer for those two."

"For real life?"

"Yes," Bluey nods

"Well, I'll go with you anyway. You might need some backup."

"Thanks, Mackenzie" Bluey turns to keep walking. "Where did they go?"

"Look" Mackenzie points to the ground in front of Bluey, there were footprints formed by small pieces of grass.

"Hooray!" Bluey's eyes widen in celebration, and the Heeler and Mackenzie begin to follow the footprints.

Bluey and Mackenzie briskly followed the footprints until the trail passed under the door to the downstairs bathroom.

"They must be here," Bluey said, standing in front of the door with Mackenzie. "Are they too scared of me to hide in the bathroom?

"It looks like it," Mackenzie agrees. "We can't just walk in the door, can we?

Bluey doesn't answer but instead pulls a set of keys for each door in the house out of her pockets. "Mackenzie, this is my house. Of course I can come in anyway."

The blue Heeler places the key near the lock but stops to look at Mackenzie and says, "When I open the door, come in right away; they might put pressure on the door to keep it closed."

"Yeah, sure."

Bluey finally sticks the key in the lock, rotates to unlock, and opens the door. Mackenzie rushes in, and Bluey enters as well. Already inside, Bluey closes the door behind her and turns to face the bad dogs of the hour: Rusty, Lucky, and Adam, the latter with the mug raised, drinking what was inside.

"Bluey..." A surrendered Lucky is the first to speak with his palms subtly raised, pleading for mercy. "This is not what it looks like."

"I know you, Lucky," Bluey accuses and demands. "Give me that, Adam."

Lucky and Rusty look defeated at Adam, who finishes his drink. With a bad dog face, Adam hands Bluey the half-empty red mug, and the heeler unscrews the lid to sniff the liquid.

"Yeah... Alcohol," Bluey confirms.

"I know this doesn't look good," dialogue Lucky, with his palms still at chest level, "but I was just giving Rusty and Adam a taste of the new bottle my dad bought."

"Oh yeah?

"Yeah..." Rusty defends himself too. "Lucky told me about it when your parents were putting together the teams, and I convinced him to bring some."

"I listened to them and decided to try some, too," Adam adds.

"Huh...

"If you want, you can throw it in the sink. Rusty and Adam already tried it, and that's just what we wanted to do," Lucky says, putting two hands together in supplication. "But please don't throw us out of the party or tell Indy or Judo."

"Huh..." Bluey looks inside the mug at what's left of that controversial substance. The sweet smell of cream and spice hits the Heeler's nostrils, inviting her to take a few drops. But the fact that Lucky's dad, Pat, bought the drink turned on the light bulb of curiosity in her head.

Without warning, Bluey glues her lips to the mug and lifts it to let the liquid slide into her mouth and down her throat. The fake strawberry taste makes Bluey's eyes widen in surprise. Bluey can drink the liquid without any problems. "Wow, Lucky's dad chose well," Thinks Bluey.

Bluey was no stranger to beer and being drunk up to her ankles. One of the things she and her friends learned when they grew up, besides driving, having a job, or having real responsibilities, was how to drink and how to be responsible when doing so, all under adult supervision until Bluey and her friends had finally grown up.

"No alcohol at the party"...Even Bluey had to admit that the rule is there for Bingo and her friends. She and her parents, Chilli and Bandit, agreed that the youngest of the family and her friends were still too young to drink.

Bluey had already had beers with Lucky and his yellow family in the past. Every time there was a party to watch an important rugby match, whatever was in that mug was definitely nothing like the cheap booze Lucky and his family usually have at their parties, and surprisingly, she didn't have to spit or force herself to swallow the bitter taste of beer.

When Bluey puts the mug down after her drink, she sees the stunned looks of Rusty, Lucky, and Adam.

"What? I'm not going to be a princess all my life," Bluey lifts the mug for another quick drink before saying amiably as she shakes the mug with what's left. "This is really good."

"What happened to your "no alcohol" rule?" Adam asks, still stunned.

"Honestly, I said it because I don't want to deal with drunk Bingo or anyone else," confesses Bluey, embarrassed. "Bingo is already a loose cannon, and I don't want to imagine her drunk."

"Chucky already had his first beer," Lucky comments out of nowhere.

"For real life?"

"Yeah," Lucky pulls out his phone, looks for something, and shows it to Bluey. "I took this video a few nights ago at the night of the game."

Bluey squints her eyes to focus on the video, but the camera only points to a sleeping Chucky sitting on the couch, his head resting on his mother Janelle's shoulder, who was laughing at the absurd situation in the video.

"HE FALLS ASLEEP!" Bluey exclaims with her eyes wide open, to which Lucky responds by nodding. "Okay, now it sounds good to go drink at your place." Bluey turns his head to Mackenzie, who is still by her side, extends him the mug, and says, "Do you want some, Mackenzie?"

"No, but thank you," Mackenzie declines the offer graciously.

"Well..." Bluey turns her attention to the sink, pours what's left of the mug, and then hands it to Lucky."Where did your father get this?"

"In a store north of downtown, I can send you the location if you want."

"Please..." Bluey says, but following her desire to spend time away from the party, considering she's alone with four of her friends in the bathroom and with Jean-Luc distracted in the battle of the sexes, she asks,". So... What do you think of Jean-Luc?"

"He seems cool," Adam comments.

"Mackenzie is right; he has a good heart," Lucky comments.

"I agree. You can tell he knows where he's at," Rusty agrees.

"And you, Mackenzie?" Bluey turns his head to the Collie.

"Emmmm" Mackenzie rolls his eyes but looks back at Bluey to say, "I don't know...I'm still figuring out what to think of him."

"Really?" Bluey exclaims, but Mackenzie just nods her head, "Why?"

"Let's just say..." Mackenzie scratches the back of his head before continuing. "That he still has yet to earn my trust."

"What?"

"Yeah, don't get me wrong, I like Luke, but it's also not cool to keep secrets and use the host family for your secret agenda," Mackenzie gets it out of his chest.

"Secret agenda?" Bluey places her hand over her mouth, mentally wondering what Mackenzie wants to say concerning Jean-Luc, but she is tired of figuring things out without information and shoots the Collie. "Mackenzie, I'm not a fortune teller. What's going on with Jean-Luc?"

Mackenzie shoots a quick glance at Bluey before looking away and answering, "Nothing," Mackenzie looks back at Bluey, "I've already talked to him, and we're in the same boat. Like I said, I still don't know what to think of him."

"Mackenzie..." Bluey leans toward him with a threatening tone, trying to get the information out of him despite his three friends still being there.

"Here's something I don't understand..." Adam asks, "How do you know Jean-Luc?"

"I met him eleven years ago when I went camping," Bluey answers normally. "We had a great time, but he had to go back to Canada...Come to think of it. I have yet to tell my story with Jean-Luc to the rest of the group."

"At least Mackenzie here was kind enough to tell us the story between you and Jean-Luc the last time you went camping," says Rusty, crossing his arms.

"All in good time, Bluey," Lucky advises. There's no need to throw out all the tricks in the first half."

"Yeah, right…"

"I think it's time to get out," Rusty advises. "Maybe they're already wondering where we are."

"Yeah, let's go," Bluey steps aside and opens the bathroom door, letting Rusty, Adam, and Lucky go out first. "Lucky, no more beer for today," She warns Lucky as she walks by her. When it was Mackenzie's time, Bluey places a hand on his shoulder and whispers menacingly with seriousness. "We're not done yet, Mackenzie."

But Mackenzie ignores her and walks past her.

"But what's happening to Mackenzie? "Bluey thinks as she closes the door and walks to the backyard.

---

When Bluey arrives at the backyard behind Rusty, Lucky, Adam, and Mackenzie, she finds her friends setting up a lot of chairs in a circle. Fortunately for her and her doubts, Buddy was walking by. "Hey, Buddy, What's going on?" Bluey asks

"We are going to play musical chairs," Buddy responds.

"Oh, cool, Hey! Who won in keepy uppy?" Bluey asks her friends, still working on the chairs

"WE WON!" Banjo shouted, followed by some celebrations from the guys. "Jean-Luc clutched up when we needed him!"

"I just did my duty for the team," Jean-Luc humbly remarked.

"YOU CHEATED!" Pom Pom shouted.

"It's not cheating; it's smart thinking," Bandit defends the blue lab.

"Either way, you are sleeping on the couch," Chilli scolds her husband.

"EITHER WAY, WE WON!" Bandit shouts with his arms extended.

"YEAH!" The boys shouted, too

"Wait, so what did Jean-Luc do?" Bluey asks

"He carried the ballon away from us and dived to the ground with it," Chloe complains.

"Nah, Nah," Snickers dismissed her. "He impulsed the ballon with his fingerprints and dived himself away from you girls. It's a you problem; there wasn't a single girl where Jean-Luc dived,"

"He, Cheated." Chloe held her ground.

And while Chloe and Snickers bicker with each other…

Bang, Bang, Bang, Boom, Clang*

The sound of Bingo's drums revered the backyard, ready to sound off. "C'mon, guys! Are we gonna play musical chairs or talk till we die!" Bingo pressures her friends

"Okay!" Dougie turns to the teenagers. "WHO IS GOING TO PLAY MUSICAL CHAIRS"

---

5 minutes later*

Outside the circle of 8 chairs, 9 dogs, Bluey, Jean-Luc, Mackenzie, Sadie, Chloe, Coco, Snickers, Juniper, and Winton, stand ready for the music to begin.

"We are set," Lila informs next to Bingo on the drums.

"Ok…" Bingo looks carefully at the drums in front of her, a gift she got from her parents on her 13th birthday. She moves her drumsticks around, trying to come up with a beat to start the game.

"Dont cheat this time, Jean-Luc," Sadie jokes at the other side of the circle from where the blue lab is

"I don't take advice from a salami eater fanatic, but I will try not to," Jean-Luc jokes back.

"Watch it, Jean-Luc." Chloe seriously gets involved in the exchange. "I'm done playing nice with you."

"Weren't we?" Jean-Luc raises an eyebrow

"Screw you, Jean-Luc," Chloe grunted, making Bluey open her eyes wide open at her best friend.

Jean-Luc opens his mouth to answer but closes it down to say something else. "Actually, I'm not going to say anything; I know you still like me."

"..." Chloe doesn't respond but reluctantly looks away from Jean-Luc.

"Don't worry, pretty girl," Jean-Luc continues. "I still like you after this."

"What in the world?" Bluey thinks briefly, looking at Jean-Luc and Chloe with a lost sense of direction, feeling the itchiness again in her body. "Is he…hitting on Chloe?"

"Hey!" Bingo shouted. "Stop talking over there." The red Heeler looks at the drums in front of her again, and with a little wind up with her stick, she starts hitting the drums.

Under the slow tempo of Bingo's drums, the participants walk around the circle of chairs, with the rest watching and waiting for Bingo to give the signal.

CLANG*

Bingo, After extending her arm in the air, she clashes it with the cymbal.

And the dogs quickly sit down in the nearest chair.

Unfortunately

Chloe couldn't find a free chair.

"OHHHHH!"

"OH CHLOE!" Jean-Luc talks when he notices Chloe got eliminated after sitting down. "What happened!? I thought you said you were going to play dirtier this time."

"Fuck you, Jean-Luc" Again, Chloe provokes the Lab as she walks away from the circle.

"Keep playing tough (Black spots)," Jean-Luc continues, talking casually. "You really don't wanna go there, Spots, you really don't wanna go there."

"You can't even play without cheating." Chloe turns half her body to reply to the disrespect

"And you can't even play without crying; what's your point, dots?" Jean-Luc deprecates

"Can you even hear yourself dumbass?" Chloe turns her body around completely to retaliate

"Yeah…sounds better than you, that's for sure."

Chloe opens her mouth to reply to the Labrador, but her face and action stay suspended in the air until she closes her mouth, changes her face from an angry one to a tired, consummated face, turns around, and walks to the back porch in silence.

"No hard feelings (Pretty spots)," Jean-Luc says. "I still like you, Chloe."

"What the…" Bluey thinks in a flash and whips her head at the Labrador who is ahead of her in between Buddy the Pug. Bluey does her best to stretch her arm, passing by Buddy to push Jean-Luc's shoulder. The Labrador turns his head to see her behind him, and Bluey, in her best French, says irritably, "(She is my best friend, you know!?)"

"(I know)" Jean-Luc answers still looking over his shoulder to Bluey "(Is just some good old Canadian trash talk, I will make up to her)"

"Eh?" Bluey interjects confused. She didn't try to defend her best friend. She did it because-

"Can we continue?" Bingo asks, with both sticks in her hands ready for action

Bluey and the rest of the participants stand up. And Bingo hit the drums again.

The dogs keep going around the remaining chairs until Bingo hits the cymbal.

CLANG*

Eliminating Snickers

CLANG*

Eliminating Coco

CLANG*

Eliminating Sadie

CLANG*

Eliminating Buddy

CLANG*

Eliminating Juniper

CLANG*

Eliminating Winton

Until Bluey, Mackenzie, and Jean-Luc were the only dogs playing

With two chairs remaining, Bingo hits the drums again: toms, bass drum, high hat, and snare drum. She uses everything on the drum except the cymbal to create a faster rhythm for the three finalists. The rhythm she is creating accidentally makes the Heeler bob her head back and forth with joy, but she has to stop at any second.

CLANG*

Mackenzie and Jean-Luc find their seat. Unfortunately, Bluey is out.

"Agh Biscuits." Bluey swings her arms downwards in defeat and proceeds to walk back to her friends

"Valiant effort, Bluey," Rusty says from the back porch as she lays her back on the porch fence.

"Sorry, Bluey!" Bingo says from her drums but only gets a thumbs up from her

"Oh Boy!" Felix says as he realizes how the game will end, "The exchange student versus the host family member!"

Under the motivational cheers of the rest, Mackenzie and Jean-Luc look at each other behind them, their mouths slightly open, figuring out what is going to come down next.

"Don't let me down, Mackenzie!" Bingo screams from the drums as the two housemates stand up, still looking at each other

"Alright, let's make this more interesting," Bandit announced as he approached them, bridging a small blue square pouf seat to replace the two chairs.

From where Bluey is watching, Jean-Luc extends his hand to Makcneize and says, "May the best dog win."

With a mistrustful face, Mackenzie looks at Jean-Luc's hand for a second until he finally stretches it without saying a word.

"Ok, here I go," Bingo warns with his drumsticks raised. "All or nothing, boys."

With a swing going down on the drums, Bingo starts going all out, using everything she knows in her fast solo. Mackenzie and Jean-Luc start going around the pouf, looking at each other like poker players trying to read their opponents. Bluey could feel the tension and anxiety from her friends around her…waiting for Bingo to hit the cymbal.

CLANG*

Bingo gives the signal, and Mackenzie and Jean-Luc sit on the pouf, occupying half and half of the seat.

"HEY I WON!" Jean-Luc celebrates with a first-up

"NOPE!" Mackenzie shoves him with his body to make him fall off. "I WON"

"(Cheater) I WON!" Jean-Luc returns the favor, shoving Macknezie's body with his

"GIVE UP, JEAN-LUC, I WON," Mackenzie shoves him with his body.

"NEVER, MACK." Jean-Luc shoves him back with his body

Mackenzie doesnt answer, but instead of shoving, he grunts as he presses his body to Jean-Luc's in an attempt to push him off the pouf. Jean-Luc loses millimeters but goes back at Mackenzie, pressing against him in an improvised battle to see which dog is strong enough to push the other over the edge.

Bluey could have run to them to stop whatever they were doing…but…there is something special about watching your secret crush and your childhood friend competing against each other, seeing who is stronger than the other, seeing their bodies against each other going the extra mile, the sounds of grunts and effort coming out of them, their teeth on both boys grinding letting out all their strength into their muscles, the exertion face on both of them with their eyes focused on accomplishing their objective.

Bluey felt her cheeks warming up as she slowly let her mouth drop.

Seeing her two most important friends in her life in such a raw, competitive state.

Is…Hot

"HEY, KNOCK IT OFF!" Bandit screams, Making Mackenzie and Jean-Luc stop what they are doing to let the adult Heeler come closer to them to determine a winner.

The shout also made Bluey snap out of her innermost moment to realize the whole confrontation lasted less than 3 seconds. The intense moment made her look at them in slow motion.

"Ok, don't move, guys," Says Bandit as he and Bluey's friends come closer to the pouf and the pissed-off teenagers to carefully examine whose butt occupied more of the square seat,

While his father is a referee, Bluey turns around to hide her hot cheek and the fact she is slightly gasping. She uses her hand as a hand fan to cool herself down, and while she does that, she hears her father behind announcing, "Jean-Luc won."

"YES," Jean-Luc celebrates as her friends clap for him.

"FUCK" Mackenzie curses

"Hey…Good game, Mack, that was fun," Jean-Luc says

…

"Mack?" Jean-Luc talks again

Bluey turns around, more stable than 5 seconds ago, to see Mackenzie upset. Reluctantly looking at the Lab's hands before finally shaking Jean-Luc's hand, after the exchange, Mackenzie turns around to walk to the interior of the house.

"Mackenzie, where are you going!?" Bluey shouts as Mackenzie steps onto the back porch

However, instead of answering Bluey, Mackenzie looks at Bingo on the drums to say, "Bingo, can I rest in your room? I need a minute."

"Sure," Bingo shrugs her shoulders with indifference.

After receiving confirmation from Bingo, Mackenzie quickly tells Bluey, "I will be back; Dont worry about me."

"What?" Thats was all Bluey managed to say before Mackenzie turned around to walk to Bingo's room

Granted, she was going to give Mackenzie his time-out.

But this night…

Is far from over.

Notes:

How is it possible that this thing is going to take me another part to finish? Well, at least I'll be able to get out of the arsenal everything I had planned for this party in the next chapter

Except for the 300 movie, there really aren't any references

Also...1k hits?...Wow...I don't know what to say. I mean I did thought about this moment but now that I reached this milestone, is like...Wow, I'm there...this is important now.

Honestly, I'm aware this story reached 1k I think before the last chapter was uploaded but wanted to wait to be well beyond the 1000 zone to acknowledged it. What I did not expect was to upload this with 1400 hits... Yes I'm aware I took my sweet time with this.

For real life...If you are reading this...Thank you, for the kudo, for the comment, for a simple hit. You guys, are, AWESOME.

So yeah...I'm not done yet, far from it.

Anyways, two more chapters in this act.

Feel free to leave a review and until next time

Chapter 13: The Glasshouse club part 3

Notes:

Another year accomplished in my life…Another chapter down

*The Heeler House*

*Tock, Tock, Tock"

"I'm coming in!"

Bluey announces before turning the handle and opening her sister's room, the same room she shared with her before graduating from Glasshouse and entering Southern Stars Middle School. The room didn't change much except for some posters, pictures hanging on the walls, and a desk with a computer where her old bed was under the window.

In the room's darkness, the silhouette of a Border Collie's back can be seen. He is sitting on the floor with his legs crossed and looking towards the balcony, where the lights of downtown Brisbane can be seen while the party continues outside the balcony. But he doesn't look back to see Bluey.

It's been mere minutes since Mackenzie and Jean-Luc went 1 on 1 for dominance of a puny little square pouf in a game of musical chairs. Jean-Luc won bragging rights, but Mackenzie decided to barricade himself in Bingo's room… A time out, as he would say

Bluey walks in and walks through her old room to sit down with Mackenzie next to him. Already comfortable, she looks at him and says, "Are you okay?"

"Yes," Mackenzie answers unimportantly, still looking out.

"Are you sure?"

"Yes," Mackenzie answers, slightly annoyed.

"You're not okay."

"Why do you say that?" Mackenzie finally looks at her.

"Because you don't usually behave like that when you lose."

"Why do you think that?"

Bluey looks away from Mackenzie, sighs, looks back at him, raises her hand, and starts counting on her fingers. "The school assembly last year, the time we went to the arcade with Winton and the terriers, when we played video games at Pretzel's house, when the New Zealand team lost that soccer game against Australia, when McFinn got a flat tire when he was going to finish the Australian Grand Prix in first place."

"Bluey…"

"When you lose," Bluey finally explains. "You never act like that. You always accept defeat with pride. In fact…" Bluey tries her best not to stutter with her cheeks slightly warm. "You were amazing in that game anyway."

"I know," Mackenzie murmurs. "But losing to Jean-Luc… That didn't feel good."

"I could tell. Chloe and the girls say he's very cocky when he plays, "Bluey says as she calms her cheeks inadvertently.

"And they're right," The Collie adds quickly, raising his index finger

"But the important thing is to have fun. You always say that," Bluey says, trying to cheer Mackenzie up. "In fact, Jean-Luc asked about you before I went up."

"Really?" Mackenzie asks, to which Bluey responds by nodding, "How cute."

"Haha, Yeah…" Bluey laughs lightly at Mackenzie's occurrence but composes herself to ask the night's question, "Can I ask you something, and can you answer me honestly?"

Mackenzie rolls her eyes to think about it until he looks at Bluey and answers, "Sure."

"What's your problem with Jean-Luc?" Bluey asks, but she can feel Mackenzie's rolling eyes at the mention of his name. She continues explaining anyway. "When I asked the guys in the bathroom, you said you didn't trust him."

"Yeah, but we already talked about it," Mackenzie says with irrelevance.

"I don't know what you guys talked about, but what happened out there tells me there's something else there that wasn't resolved."

"Hmph," Mackenzie looks away to look out of the balcony.

"Mackenzie…"

…

…

…

"Jean-Luc and I are fine. I just didn't like losing to him."

At Mackenzie's response, Bluey mimics him by looking out at the balcony to let the darkness of the night clear her thoughts. Her best friend may have answered her, but she still feels that Mackenzie is hiding something from her.

Whatever it is, Mackenzie doesn't want to say it.

"Do whatever you want," Bluey answers. Tired of getting involved, she finally stands up, walks to the balcony, and watches the party from above.

Bluey walks until she has the railing in front of her, places her forearms on the cold wood, and looks down to see Bingo, Dougie, and Lila in a game of Twister, with her friends looking at the trio of best friends in a very complicated position.

"Bingo, Right Hand, Yellow," Announces Lulu, who was acting as a referee with the simple Twister roulette wheel.

"Doguie lowers your body," Bingo says, having difficulty deciding whether to put his hand over or under Dougie.

"I can't; I'm too tense here," Doguie complains, forming a kind of bridge with his body face up.

"Dougie, you're really bad at playing this," Lila jokes.

"Shut up, Malta," Bingo and Dougie say at the same time.

Bingo makes her move and extends his hand under Dougie's back but accidentally touches his back with the back of her hand. Doguie retracts his back at the contact and loses balance, causing him and the two girls to fall to the play mat.

When Bingo and Lila raise their heads, they find themselves face to face with Dougie's face beneath them. The Cavapoo laughs tenderly and says in his best seductive voice and face, "Girls…"

"Hahaha!" Bingo and Lila laugh too, but they say in unison, "Tempting, but No."

"At least I tried," Dougie says hopeful, as he moves his body to signal Bingo and Lila to get up.

Bingo and Lila get up first, grab Dougie's hands, and help him get up. All while Bluey looked at the perfect chemistry of her sister's trio

"Dougie is a spunk."

Bluey turned her head towards the low voice beside her to see Mackenzie as she stood, with her forearms on the wooden railing and looking at the party below. Bluey didn't hear him stand up and walk over to where she is

"Ha." A light laugh comes from her, and then she sees her sister and friends below. "I'm glad Bingo and Lila are friends with Dougie."

"Yeah…" Mackenzie keeps his voice low so as not to be heard from below. "I'm surprised by how much those three have grown since their first year in middle school."

"Don't remind me of that year, Mackenzie," Bluey begs.

"Ok…" Mackenzie reacts strangely. "Do you want to go downstairs? I feel better now."

"Yes, let's go," Bluey says, turning with Mackenzie to leave her sister's room.

---

After coming down from Bingo's room and walking to the back, Bluey and Mackenzie were about to enter the old playroom that connected to the backyard, but Bluey managed to see Jean-Luc and Chloe in the middle of the room, both talking to each other and holding a red cup with soda, pretending they were drinking beer as every other kid would do with a red cup. Bluey stopped and grabbed Mackenzie by his shoulder to make him stop and hear the conversation.

Even there, the itching feeling in her body telling her to do something runs wild as she watches her childhood friend talk to her best friend.

"What is this?" Bluey questions in her mind, "This shouldn't happen. Why do I feel like this?"

"Don't you feel sometimes that you just want to slam something to your face after saying something really dumb?" Jean-Luc says, taking a look at his cup

"Sometimes," Chloe says, shaking her cup. "The first thing that comes to mind is that I accidentally said that one of my friends had a 'small tool' in front of him years ago."

"What!?" Jean-Luc says with open eyes as wheels, causing Chloe to laugh a little. "That's cruel, Spots."

"At least it was in between friends. It could have been worse if I said it at school."

"True that"

"What about you?" Chloe lightly signals him with her cup

"I once got challenged by my Bauddies to catcall a girl after school, To refine our flirting skills. I took my chances on a cute girl in the parking lot, but I didn't notice her father was right next to her."

"Shut the fuck up," Chloe murmurs jokingly and almost laughing, looking away from Jean-Luc.

"Nah, Nah, here is the actual punchline." Jean-Luc takes a sip before continuing, "Her father is the Chemistry teacher."

"No way!" Chloe reacts, shocked, as Jean-Luc nods rapidly

"Yeah, got sent to the principal office the next day and got detention after school as punishment."

"Well, looks like you didn't learn your lesson since you…Chirped me, in the musical chairs game."

"I already said im sorry, Chloe" Jean-Luc rolled his eyes. "I couldn't help to chirp when you started trash-talking."

"And I already said you are forgiven." Chloe punches him on the shoulder playfully, but as she finishes, she turns her head to where Bluey and Mackenzie are to notice them. She looks back at Jean-Luc and says, "I will be in the back,"

"Ok, Chloe," Jean-Luc farewells her as he turns his body to talk to Bluey and Mackenzie, making them walk to him.

"Jean-Luc seems into Chloe," Bluey briefly thinks as he approaches Jean-Luc "… And Chloe never had a boyfriend in her life…maybe…"

"Do you like Chloe?" Bluey says as she and Mackenzie stop before Jean-Luc to talk to him, "I can help you get a date with her."

"No, I don't like her," Jean-Luc answers, catching Bluey by surprise. "I'm not into Dalmatians. Don't get me wrong; Chloe is a rocket, but we both agreed we don't want anything with each other."

"A rocket?" Bluey tilts her head to the side, confused

"Slang for hot girl in hockey"

"What about what you said to her in the game?" Asks Mackenzie,

"Like…?" Jean-Luc says unsure, shaking his cup lightly.

"'You don't wanna go there. You can't play without crying.'" Mackenzie repeats what Jean-Luc said moments earlier

"That's chirping. Slang for trash talk in hockey." Jean-Luc points at Mackenzie, still with the cup in hand. "And Chloe started it."

"What about, 'Don't worry, pretty girl' or 'I still like you after this,'" Bluey repeats annoyed, what Jean-Luc said moments ago

"I said it not to have her completely mad at me," Jean-Luc answers. "I know I'm going to spend most of the time with you guys here in Australia, and the last thing I need is to get an enemy in the first week."

"Makes sense,"

"Yeah, I also got advised not to have romantic relationships while I'm here," Jean-Luc says before pointing at Mackenzie. "You know, you were there when your mother laid out the rules."

"Yeah, she also said you can…" Mackenzie raises his hand to do hand quotes, "'Keep it casual,' if you know what she meant."

"Yeah, same thing, one-way road to chaos and drama," Jean-Luc says.

"Well, Chloe is a hard-to-get girl anyways," Bluey says

"I can see that… Hey Mack," Jean-Luc calls him, pointing at him with his cup. "About what happened at the musical chairs game... Are we good?"

"Yeah, we are good." Mackenzie raises his fist to him, and Jean-Luc fistbumps him,

"Good," Bluey talks. "Glad we resolved…" Bluey sees with the corner of her eye a white and brown figure from the entrance to the backyard. She slowly turns her head to see him. "...This issue."

It's Jack's withering look, half-closed eyes, and an angry scowl at them. When he realizes Bluey's sight is on him, he turns around and walks out of sight of the three dogs.

"What's up with Jack?" Bluey thinks. But mentally shakes her head and turns to the boys. "Let's go to the backyard. Let's see what the guys are up to."

"Ok" "(Alright)" Mackenzie and Jean Luc say at the same time before the trio walk the short distance to the backyard.

---

The trio is met by the sight of everyone gathering in front of Bandit and Chilli. The adult blue Heel ponders with a thumb and index finger under his mouth as Bingo sets up a chair behind the table with the laptop and the projector.

"I'm gonna choose…" Bandit says, but when he sees Jean-Luc outside the gathering, he points his arm to him and says, "Jean-Luc."

Everyone turns around to see the blue Labrador, who asks, bewildered, "Wait, what's going on?"

"You know the game charades?" asks Buddy

"No?"

"Ok, let me explain to you," Snickers says as he approaches to be next to him and puts an arm around him to start clarifying. "You are going to sit there behind the projector and Bingo. A word will appear on the white screen, and we will be in front of you right here trying to describe the word, and you will attempt to guess it."

"I see"

"Why Jean-Luc?" Jack asks. "He is still learning English. We could be disadvantaged if we choose him."

"Remember why we are here." Says Rusty with crossed arms. "This whole thing is because of Jean-Luc.

"I can set up the game to go easy on Jean-Luc." Says Bingo, sitting in front of the laptop

"Nah," Jean-Luc interlaces his fingers, stretching them and his arms, accepting the challenge. "Keep it like that. Ten years learning English has to work for something."

"Ok, sure thing," Bingo says as she focuses again on the laptop.

"Alright, that's it," Bandit addresses his boys. "We are going 2-0 Tonight"

"Ok, boys! Lets dummied them," Says Jean-Luc as he sits down to start the game

…

…

…

"What?" several dogs react baffled

"Slang for 'we are going to beat this team' in hockey," Jean-Luc explained.

"Ahhhhh." After learning a new word from Jean-Luc's vocabulary, the boys stay in front of Jean-Luc while the girls move aside to watch the action. Bandit gets in the group to play while Chilli kneels next to Jean-Luc to act as a referee.

"Psss." Bingo leans back to look at Jean-Luc, bringing her within inches of his face."Good luck, you will need it."

"I don't need luck," Jean-Luc smugly says as he looks away from Bingo to look forward. "I know my English."

Bingo rolls her eyes and leans forward to handle the laptop. "Alright, Boys! Here I go."

Bingo clicks the start button on the game.

"3"

"2"

"1"

"ITS LIKE FEETS"

"BIRDS USE THEM"

"BIRDS USE THEM TO CATCH THINGS"

"CLAWS!" Jean-Luc screams out after everyone describes the word.

"CORRECT"

"NEXT NEXT NEXT"

"That was easy," Chilli casually comments as Bingo clicks on the next word.

As the game progresses with shouts and hand signals, Bluey and the girls watch around the game to see how the boys perform.

"Psss, Bluey," a whispering voice sounds off next to Bluey. She looks to her left and sees Missy next to her. "We decided you are going to be on the chair," Lila says normally.

"Alright"

"Hey, Bluey." Bluey looks to her right to see Winnie. "Is Jean-Luc single?"

"Ehhhhh." Bluey looks away from her to think of something. Despite her disposition to match Jean-Luc with Chloe moments earlier, the itching feeling appears again, telling her… not to let Winnie get close to Jean-Luc… After experiencing the itchiness the entire party…she decides to listen to it, using what Jean-Luc said about dating Chloe: "No, he said he is not interested in dating."

"Aww," Winnie reacts sadly. "That sucks."

"I know what you are trying to do, overworked barista," Bluey thinks indifferently, with an angry frown on her, using Winnie's nickname. "You don't want him. You just want to win your little stupid competition with Coco."

"Well," Winnie shrugs her shoulders before looking back at the boys, "Can't win them all."

"Sorry, Winnie," Bluey apologizes to her in her mind as she shifts her sight to the game. "I won't let you or Coco hurt Jean-Luc."

In the meantime, in the game

"TWO WORDS"

"TWO WORDS, FIRST ONE"

"ITS IN THE MIDDLE OF THE PACIFIC

"ALOHA, ALOHA"

"YOU GO SURFING THERE"

Jean-Luc looks baffled, with half-closed eyes, trying to make sense of what the boys and Bandit are saying while the clock on the projector behind him reaches the final 10 seconds. "Hawaii?" Jean-Luc guess anyways

"CORRECT, CORRECT"

"SECOND WORD"

"IT'S THE BEST FOOD OF THE WORLD"

"ITS ROUND, MADE WITH DOUGH'

"ITALY, ITALY"

"SAUCE, CHEESE, PEPPERONI"

"ITS ROUND, GOES IN A BOX, YOU EAT IT IN SLICES"

"FRATELLI D'ITALIA"

"Pizza? HAWAIIAN PIZZA!" Jean-Luc shouts

"YES!"

Ringgggggggg*

"TIMES UP!" Bingo shouts.

"OTTA BOY JEAN-LUC"

"GREAT JOB MATE, GREAT JOB MATE"

"STATEMENTS, MADE"

"SIMPLY LOVELY"

"Aw man," Jean-Luc leans back after a hard-played round, "Hawaiian pizza, my favorite."

…

…

…

"What!?"

"HOLD THE FUCK UP" Banjo shouted as everyone at the party judged Jean-Luc. "You kidding…Right?"

"No?"

"You are a certified weirdo." Bingo leans back to face Jean-Luc. "Did you know that?"

"If liking Hawaiian pizza means I'm weird. Then yeah, im fucking weird," Jean-Luc stated. "Anyways, How many did I get?" Jean-Luc asks as he looks behind him to look at the score

"You got 6 Correct words."

"Uff, not bad, not bad."

"Ok, GIRLS," Chilli calls them. "IT'S TIME WE SHOW THEM WHAT WE ARE MADE OF"

"You got this, Bluey."

"We believe in you, Bluey."

"Let's show these boys who are in charge."

The girls swap places with the boys. Bluey occupies her place in the chair as Chilli joins up with the teenagers, and Bandit kneels next to Bluey to make sure no one is cheating.

"I'm not going to be easy on you," Bingo says, her eyes still on the laptop.

"Where is your loyalty, little sis?" Bluey mocks her.

"I left it in my room. Ok, Here I go," Bingo warns as she clicks the button to start the game.

---

While it was the girls' turn, the boys watched the round near the tree or sat on the grass. Mackenzie was watching the girls playing, but he was also watching Bluey making all kinds of gestures, from confused faces trying to understand the girls to faces of total joy after getting a word right,

Mackenzie wouldn't mind standing there for a long time looking at her. Hell, he wouldn't mind being there for a year looking at her.

"Pss"

Mackenzie turns his head quickly to see the busybody who dares to interrupt him, looking at Bluey's beautiful face.

"Can we talk?" Jean-Luc asks, whispering in Mackenzie's ear

"About?"

Jean-Luc moves his eyes towards the girls, but following the gaze, Mackenzie notices that he is looking at Blue.y

Mackenzie sighed, defeated, and answered, "Ok."

"Can we go inside?" Jean-Luc asks

"Is it that important?"

"As men, housemates and friends… Yes"

"I hope this is good, "Mackenzie says as he begins to walk with Jean-Luc to the old heeler playroom.

Already far from the noise and the other dogs in the old playroom, Jean-Luc walks to the wall and leans against it to be far enough away from any ear and finally asks, "When are you going to confess to Bluey?

"Huh? "Mackenzie stands in front of him. Mackenzie and Jean-Luc had never talked about Bluey since the argument, and since Jean-Luc came back from hanging out with her in the city center, so naturally for him, the fact that Jean-Luc asked about Bluey took him by surprise "Where did that question come from?"

"I noticed that you had your look on her, and I remembered the conversation we had that day after arriving from camp."

"Oh yeah, I still remember." Mackenzie looks up, remembering his argument with Jean-Luc about using her family without telling the truth. However, Jean-Luc thought the argument was because he was jealous and wanted to ensure the coast was clear for him to be Bluey's boyfriend… Wait a second!

"Actually, I still remember that YOU weren't going to come between Bluey and me, and the next thing I see, Bluey uploaded a picture of you two to the group," Mackenzie says, annoyed.

"You mean the picture of us arm in arm in the park?" Jean-Luc clarifies, to which Mackenzie nods before the Labrador speaks again, "It's just a friendly photo. I had no intention of doing anything romantic with her that day. In fact, she was the one who suggested the photo."

"Really?" Mackenzie answers more calmly.

Jean-Luc nods and says, "I told you that you don't have to worry about me."The Labrador crosses his arms and shrugs his shoulders, saying, "Well?"

"Well, what?"

"Are you going to confess to Bluey?"

Mackenzie puts a hand to his face in annoyance until he takes his hand away and answers, "Don't pressure me, Luke. This is easier said than done."

"At some point, you're going to have to do it," advises Jean-Luc. "It doesn't sound good to live your whole life keeping your feelings inside because you were a plug in these moments."

"A what!? "Mackenzie exclaims

Jean-Luc sighed, looking at the floor, and explained, "Slang term about a player who doesn't play with the puck in hockey."

"Jean-Luc…" Mackenzie looks at him with narrowed eyes. "Stop saying so many slang terms."

"I'll try…" Jean-Luc looks up again to see Mackenzie. "Wait, you said my name again?"

"So?"

"You usually call me Luke."

"Well…I guess spending a lot of time with you and hearing it a lot from Bluey helped me learn it."

"Huh," Jean-Luc thinks with a hand under his mouth until he says, "It makes sense. See, what I mean is that it's worth a try, I mean…" Jean-Luc looks around anxiously before looking back at him. "Have you seen how you two behave?"

"What do you mean?"

"You guys look so good together. I actually love seeing you together because you guys look like a…"

Mackenzie slowly raises an eyebrow, waiting for the nervous Jean-Luc to finally say the last word.

"..A circus?"

"A circus?" Mackenzie slaps himself in the face and continues, "Tell me that's hockey slang, too."

"Ummmm, No. Circus as a circus."

"Shit." Mackenzie slowly takes his hand off his face and finally looks at

"Also, I noticed that Bluey worried about you when you went to Bingo's room," Jean-Luc says

"Yeah...that sounds like Bluey."

"Really?

"Yeah, I worry about her, and she worries about me, typical of a friendship."

"Where I come from, that's called…" Jean-Luc raises his fingers to make quotation marks "'The two lovebirds are in love,' and that's not a slang term."

"Really? "Mackenzie answers in amazement; his tail begins to move slowly.

"Yes!" Jean-Luc exclaims, "I think there's something there, and I know you'd be a good match for Bluey.

"Really?" Mackenzie says, his tail wagging rapidly and his face light up joyfully.

Jean-Luc nods and places a hand on Mackenzie's shoulder. "A Canuck once said, 'You miss 100% of the shots you don't take'... I think it's time for you to take that shot."

"Yeah…" Mackenzie looks determinedly at Jean-Luc. "Okay, I'll do it. I'll confess to Bluey."

"Hooray!" Exclaimed Jean-Luc, still with one hand on Mackenzie's shoulder

"But of course, I won't do it at the party, of course not, "Mackenzie says. "But I'm going to plan a date for her and me."

"That's how you talk, Mack." Jean-Luc friendly hits Mackenzie's shoulder. "Ask her out and light up the lamp."

Mackenzie's happy face turns into a face of annoyance with half-open eyes and a tail that stops dead. "Luke…"

Jean-Luc looks at the floor defeated and explains, "Slang term for scoring a goal in hockey."

"We need to work on that," Mackenzie says, still with his face of annoyance.

"Je sais" the defeated French-Canadian answers.

"A BITCH!"

The screams of two girls and a boy echo in the courtyard to where the Labrador and the Border Collie are. "What the hell is going on out there?" Mackenzie asks, turning to look at the backyard.

"Come on," Jean-Luc says as he starts walking to the yard with Mackenzie.

---

A few minutes earlier*

As Jean-Luc and Mackenzie head towards the playroom, Rusty, who was with his friends watching the girls play, looks to his right and sees Jack on the other side of the group, looking at the girls with a frown. Curious, Rusty pulls his phone from his hip, searches for Jack's contact information, and starts texting him about the surveillance operation they created on Bluey and Jean-Luc two days ago.

---

Rusty: Private Jack, talk to me.

Jack: Private Jack reporting in, sir.

Rusty: Report on Operation Homecoming.

Jack: Nothing significant, Sergeant Rusty.

Rusty: Fine.

Jack: And you?

Rusty: I was talking to Bluey, Mack, Adam, and Lucky inside the house. Bluey asked what we were thinking about Jean-Luc, but Mackenzie said he didn't trust him.

Jack: Ok?

Rusty: Bluey got mad and tried to threaten him into talking, but Adam intervened first

Jack: Mack doesn't want to make life easy for himself.

Rusty: Yeah, yeah and water is wet.

Jack: Did you notice Bluey in the game of musical chairs after she was eliminated?

Rusty: No, I was behind her when Mack and Jean-Luc fought for control of the pouf.

Jack: You should have seen her face. She was red as a tomato.

Rusty: Really?

Jack: Yeah! She looked like she really enjoyed the confrontation.

Rusty: But why?

Jack: I don't know. Maybe I'll talk to Chloe; she'll know what that was about.

Rusty: What about Bingo or Winnie? There are more girls than Chloe, you know?

Jack: Yes, yes, but I trust Chloe

Rusty: Well…whatever you want

Jack: Yes. You heard Jean-Luc say those things to Chloe, right?

Rusty: I think everyone heard.

Jack: Jean-Luc is a jerk

Jack: He can't say things like that to a lady.

Jack: Who the fuck does he think he is to come all the way from an igloo in Canada to think he's such a big deal

Rusty: You're starting to sound like a drunk Bluey *empty face emoji*

Rusty: I know Jean-Luc went a little too far, but Jean-Luc already apologized, and Chloe forgave him.

Rusty: I'm sure we've said worse things over the years, and we're still friends

Rusty: What Jean-Luc said was nothing compared to what they said to Chloe before

Rusty: Besides… A mouth like Jean-Luc would come in handy if Bailey or Logan decides to mess with us in S.S.

Rusty: He's got balls…We gotta admit that.

Jack: *Upturned eyes emoji*

Jack: Okay

Jack: But if he does it again, I'll put him in his place

---

Rusty puts his phone away and looks over at Jack, who reluctantly puts his phone away, his gaze moving forward to see what's left of the game. Frankly for him, Jack's behavior towards Jean-Luc was getting under his skin. He's never going to deny the treatment that dogs like Jean-Luc did to Jack. He has every right to hold grudges, but it seems like the terrier isn't going to give Jean-Luc any quarter; it may be Jack's trauma speaking, but it seems like he needs to be reminded that Jean-Luc is on the same side.

"Five seconds, this is the last one," Bingo warns before the screen shows the next word.

Diamond*

Bingo's eyes and mouth, Lila with the girls, and Dougie with the boys open completely. Bingo leans back to see Bluey's face. Lila steps forward and puts her hands around her mouth. Dougie immediately stands up and puts his hands around his mouth as well. The three Best Friends scream at the top of their lungs.

"A BITCH!

"DIAMOND!" Bluey screams while pointing at Lila

Ringgggggggg*

"That's it," Bingo says normally while looking at the screen.

"HEY!"

"!INTERFERENCE!"

"THAT DOESNT COUNT." The boys stood up and complained about Bingo's intervention.

"I DIDN'T SAY WHAT THE WORD WAS!" Bingo defends himself, standing up as well and facing the boys face-to-face

As the boys and girls argue, Jasper G approaches Dougie, places a hand on his shoulder, and questions him under the gaze of his best friend and Pretzel "DOUGIE, WHY DID YOU HELP HER!?"

"I couldn't help it," Dougie shrugs proudly.

"SILENCE EVERYONE!" Bandit shouts, silencing everyone. With everyone quiet, Bandit continues talking, "The captains are going to discuss what happened."

Bandit places an arm around his wife and makes her walk away from the teenagers. When there is a considerable distance, Bandit and Chilli begin to whisper to each other under the watchful eyes of all the dogs. The couple continues talking until. Finally, the two heelers turn around, and Bandit announces, "Well, we've come to the conclusion that Bingo's intervention is legal because she's a girl and didn't say the word on the screen, so the point counts towards the final score."

"BINGO!" Bluey yells as she turns to her sister, looking at the laptop screen standing up

"If that point counts… Then the score is 7 to 6. WE WON!" Bingo exclaims with her arms open

"HOORAY!" Bluey lunges towards Chloe and Winnie to hug them.

"YEAHHHHHH!"

"WE WON!"

"WE'RE THE BEST!"

All the girls celebrate, some with hugs, others giving each other high fives, and others jumping delighted, while the boys look defeated at the winning team.

"Bravo, bravo," Banjo sarcastically applauds the girls. "Congratulations, you finally won one."

"IN YOUR FACE, BLUE CLOWN!" a smug Bingo yelled, pointing at Banjo's face a few inches away from him.

"Fuck you, summer sun" Banjo shoves Bingo's hand off his face and asks normally, "What are we going to do now?"

"Me," Bingo points to herself and starts walking slowly with her back to the table with the laptop…and some microphones. "I'm tired of playing."

"Do you want us to fuck off?" Banjo asks sarcastically.

"No…" Bingo reaches the table with her back, grabs a microphone, and throws it to Bonjo. The Corgi barely manages to catch the microphone before Bingo finishes speaking and presses a button on the laptop. "I want to sing."

A melody from an electric piano plays in the night air from the speakers. The projector lights up the screen with the lyrics of the song. The girls stop celebrating, and the boys' ears perk up at the childish melody. They all quickly saw Bingo with a microphone in her hand facing Banjo, who also had a microphone.

"Bingo, are you seri-"

"If you wanna dance," Bingo points at him and shakes his shoulders, singing, "Play, paint, sing. You can come to my house."

"Bingo…"

The idea is to share.

You're gonna have much fun.

If you want to come to my house

"Oh, my mother." Banjo puts a hand to his face embarrassed

I want to invite to play at my house all of my best friends

"Best friends…" Some sing with Bingo

I want to jump and dance and what I have to share. With you!

"Ugh," Banjo gives up, brings the microphone close to his mouth, and sings with Bingo excitedly as the rest of his friends dance and sing.

Chipi-chipi

Chapa-chapa

Dubi-dubi

Daba-daba

Magical my dubi-dubi

boom, boom, boom, boom

Chipi-chipi

Chapa-chapa

Dubi-dubi

Daba-daba

Magical my dubi-dubi

"Boommmmmmmmm," Bingo and Banjo sing to the sky, starting the karaoke of their lives.

---

"They want to control us, like a remote control," Felix sings on the wooden bench in the tree as if it were a stage, acting as if he were a leader of a revolution with the audience below dancing to the rhythm of Bingo's drums and the speakers "But the authority!"

"THEY CAN'T WITHSTAND US!" Everyone sings

"We like the disorder!" Felix raises and lowers his fist

"WOW WOW WOW!" Everyone sings

We break all the rules.

WOW WOW WOW

We are undisciplined

WOW WOW WOW

All the spoiled ones

WOW WOW WOWW!

We're gonna misbehave

We're gonna misbehave

We're gonna misbehaveeeee…

---

"I'm gonna love you…" Sadie, Harley, and Juniper sing at the same time through a single microphone held by Harley in the middle, the pop beat increasing in intensity, "..until you hate me."

And I'm gonna show you…

What's really crazy…

You should've known better…

Than to mess with me harder…

I'm gonna love you

I'm gonna love you

Gonna love you

Gonna love you

…Until the song reaches its climax

"Like a black widow, BABY!" Harley shouts/sings the last word

---

"Here doesnt exist the sin…"The Jasper brothers sing, with their girlfriends Bentley and Zara in front of them, with the couples Chilli and Bandit, Rusty and Indy, and Lucky and Judo dancing as if they were at a wedding "And making mistakes is beautiful, Mistakes are pleasures, Just like all your kisses."

"And just look at me…"The four canines sing at the same time, with Bentley and Zara taking the microphones from the two Jaspers and sing

With those cute little eyes

That with that, im alright…

Today I've been reborn…

And just look at me

With those cute little eyes

That with that, I'm alright…

Today I've been reborn…

---

"No one's ever had me…" Judo sings calmly and lovely, looking at her yellow lover below, who has the most massive red cheeks ever seen in Brisbane. "Not like you…"

Truth, dare, spin, bottles

You know how to ball. I know Aristotle.

Brand, new, full, throttle

Touch me while your bros play Grand Theft Auto

It's true, swear, scouts, honor

You knew what you wanted and boy, you got her.

Brand, new, full, throttle

You already know, babe…

---

"And if you go," Rusty and Jack sing the sad rock song at the same time, facing each other. "I wanna go with you."

And if you die…

I wanna die with you.

Take

Your hand

And

Walk

A-wayyyyyy

---

"...On for tonight," Chloe and Winnie sing the final part of the song facing each other. "'Cause I'm just holdin' on for tonight."

Oh, I'm just holdin' on for tonight

On for tonight, on for tonight

"'Cause I'm just holdin' on for tonight." The song dies down to finish as the two girls keep going

'Cause I'm just holdin' on for tonight

Oh, I'm just holdin' on for tonight

On for tonight, on for tonight….

"Wooooooooooo!" Everyone cheered after their performance. Chloe and Winnie grabbed each other's hands and made a long bow to thank the public before stepping off the wooden bench.

---

"Alright, who is next!?" Bluey shouts next to Bandit, Chilli, and Bingo on the laptop as everyone is talking to each other or has gone off to eat some of the food Chilli prepared beforehand to wait for the next singer

"I think it's your turn," Bingo speaks, briefly looking at her sister.

"Yeah, it's going to be fun to hear you sing" says Chilli

"Are we gonna let Jean-Luc have a go?" Bandit asks

Bingo shrugs her shoulders and says, "Ask him."

"HEY JEAN-LUC!" Bandit yells, catching the Labrador's attention, who is talking to Mackenzie and Sadie, "WANNA SING THE NEXT ONE."

"Ehhhh"

"C'mon, Jean-Luc," Sadie pressures him. "I bet you are a good singer."

"C'mon, Jean-Luc!" Lucky joins the pressure

"There is no shame in this!" Snickers also joins

"Allez allez Jean-Luc" Honey shouts too

"Jean-Luc, Jean-Luc, Jean-Luc, Jean-Luc." Everyone in the party chants his name to make him go up the bench.

Jean-Luc looks to the dark sky and curses, "Merde, pas encore ça." Jean-Luc lowers his face and says dispiritedly, "Ok, I will do it."

"HOORAY!" Everyone celebrates with their extended arms except for Mackenzie.

"Alright, Microphone," Jean-Luc requested as he approached the table with the laptop.

Bingo passes the microphone to Jean-Luc, and both of them shift their sights on the screen. "Ok, you can choose any song you want," explains Bingo

"Any song?"

"Any song," Bingo asserted

"Ummmmmm," Jean-Luc closes his eyes to think of a song. He slightly taps the table with his finger until he opens them up and turns his head towards Bluey to ask, "Bluey, you wanna sing this song with me?"

"Ehh, sure," Bluey responds uncertainty as she approaches Jean-Luc

---

"Do you know this song?" Jean-Luc says as he finishes typing on the laptop to show the karaoke version of a song to Bluey

"Ummm," Bluey looks determinedly at the title until she finally figures out what song Jean-Luc refers to. It's an old song by a male and female singer, soft rock and pop, played mainly by guitars. A song about missing a person and only remembering them through a photograph…that sounds like her and Jean-Luc ... but most importantly, she knows the song, so she nods to Jean-Luc.

"Honestly, I used to listen to it a lot back in Canada," Jean-Luc confesses calmly. "It reminds me of us and the camping trip."

"Don't be so sentimental," Bluey happily quips. "But yeah…Let's do this."

Jean-Luc nods with a determined look, grabs the microphone from the table, and both childhood friends walk to the tree bench, with the cheers of their friends encouraging them. Bluey used to sing a lot when she was a child, but most of the time, it was random and harsh to hear due to her high pitch. Over the last eleven years, Bluey slowly improved her singing skills to the point she could sing with her friends and not receive critiques from them.

Bluey and Jean-Luc finally hop onto the bench. She looks over to Bingo to see her ready to start the song. She looks back at Jean-Luc and says softly, "Ready?"

Jean-Luc looks at her in the eyes and answers, "Ready."

Bluey looks at her sister.

And nods

…

…

…

The sound of electric and acoustic guitars plays in the courtyard, catching everyone's attention as they fix their gaze on the blue couple. The guitars were still playing when the first set of lyrics to sing appeared before the guide on the screen passed. Jean-Luc raises the microphone to his mouth, and finally, the first lyrics change color, indicating to the boy that it is his turn to sing.

Every time...

That I'm leaving...

I have on the side of my skin...

Your photographs...

To see them every time...

That your absence devours entirely my whole heart...

Bluey is surprised to hear Jean-Luc's soft voice; it is not the best, but Jean-Luc is good.

And I have no other choice...

Than loving you...

Jean-Luc glances at Bluey, causing her to react, and then remembers that she has to sing with him in the next part. So, she quickly focuses on the screen and sings with him.

And in the distance…

I can see you…

When your photos…

I sit and see…

And in the stars…

Your eyes I see…

When your photos…

I sit and see…

A small solo of acoustic and electric guitar sounds in the song. Bluey relaxes and looks at Jean-Luc by her side with a smile, intertwining her voice with his felt very good…too good. When the solo ends, Bluey and Jean-Luc continue singing together with emotion.

Every time I look for you, you leave

And every time I call you, you are not there

That's why I must say that you're only… in my photographs

Every time I look for you, you leave

And every time I call you, you are not there

That's why I must say that you're only… in my photographs

Jean-Luc lowers his microphone and lets Bluey sing her part with delicacy.

When there is…

A naked abyss that opposes between the two…

I use my own memory

Taciturn of your voice…

And again I feel unwell this heart…

That has no other remedy

Than loving you…

Bluey looks sideways at Jean-Luc, he raises his microphone and sings with her.

And in the distance…

I can see you…

When your photos…

I sit and see…

And in the stars…

Your eyes I see…

When your photos…

I sit and see…

Another guitar solo plays. Bluey laughs lightly at how everything goes perfectly when singing with Jean-Luc and looks at her friends in front of her. All of her friends were watching the couple intently, letting their voices relax them, moving their bodies and tails from side to side to the notes of the melody.

Bluey looks back at Jean-Luc and thinks with shining eyes, "You're really here…After a long time…This isn't a dream…You're really here, Jean-Luc…I missed you…A LOT! "Bluey stops thinking when Jean-Luc sets his gaze on her, and with joy in their hearts, Bluey and Jean-Luc turn up the microphones to sing the last part

Every time I look for you, you leave

And every time I call you, you are not there

That's why I must say that you're only… in my photographs

Every time I look for you, you leave

And every time I call you, you are not there

That's why I must say that you're only… in my photographs

EVERY TIME I look for you, you leave

And every time I call you, you are not there

That's why I must say that you're only… in my photographs

EVERY TIME I look for you you leave

And every time I call you, you are not there

That's why I must say that you're only… in my photographs…

…

The song ends followed by applause and cheers from her friends. Bluey and Jean-Luc stare at each other, appreciating every detail of their eyes with a wide smile.

"You were amazing," Bluey says with the microphone away from her mouth.

Jean-Luc smiles even more and answers, "Just like you." Jean-Luc grabs Bluey's hand, turns to the audience, and they bow, which is received with more cheers.

When Bluey composes herself between the looks and faces of her friends, her gaze connects with Mackenzie's behind the group. Bluey's joy fades from her face like dust in the wind when she notices the Collie's face—a neutral look without any emotion and surrendering. Mackenzie closes her eyes tightly and reluctantly turns to walk out of the yard.

"MACKENZIE!" Bluey mentally screams in rage and shoves the microphone at Jean-Luc, who improvises and grabs it. She jumps off the bench and walks quickly into the house with endless questions for Mackenzie.

---

"MACKENZIE!" Bluey shouts as she finds Mackenzie walking through the main living room to the foyer.

"Leave me alone," Mackenzie begs, still walking forward and without a soul in his words.

"No, not this time!" Bluey springs to him, catches him by his shoulders, turns him around, and slams him to the nearby wall with his back fist. Mackenzie holds still by her hands on his shoulders, and finally, face to face, Bluey begs, too, "Just talk to me, Mackenzie!"

"I don't wanna talk," Mackeznie grunted, trying to set free from Bluey's hand, but she being a brown belt, it would not work in his favor, so he resorted to just looking away from her.

"C'mon, please," Bluey implores. She trembles her hands to shake him. "This isn't you. I know something is bothering you."

"Nothing is bothering me," Mackenzie says as he tries his best to look away from her.

"DON'T DO THAT!" Bluey shouts desperately. She pulls Mackenzie forward and slams him against the wall; a small tear comes out of her left eye, making its way down the fur of her cheek; she continues with a teary throat, "Don't lie to me. I know you, Mackenzie. When I asked you about Jean-Luc in the restroom, when you tried to push him off the pouf in the musical chairs game, when you walked away when you lost, when you also walked away after I sang with Jean-Luc."

".." Instead of looking away, Mackenzie looks down in front of Bluey.

Bluey also looks down and sighs, remembering what both of them used to say when they didn't feel like talking. Bluey raises her face a little and softly calls him, "Mackenzie…"

".."

"Do you remember…" Bluey says in a low voice, "... the time when Ms Calypso called us to go back to the school after recess? You didn't show up, and we had to look for you until I found you hiding in a slide. I tried to take you back with Calypso, but you refused. When I asked you why…you opened up to me about your separation anxiety."

".."

"I need you to be that honest with me." Bluey slowly removed her hands from his shoulders and put them on his cheeks. The soft touch of a heeler's fur made Mackenzie raise his head gradually until his face was in front of Bluey's. With closed eyes, he raises his right hand to put it on top of Bluey's left hand to press it further and caress it.

"Mackenzie…" Bluey whispers his name, and his eyes finally open up, revealing the pair of sad eyes looking straight into her eyes,

With Mackenzie feeling stable, Bluey asks again, almost whispering, "What's going on with Jean-Luc?"

Mackenzie sighed and answered, matching Bluey's tone, "I'm scared of losing you."

"What?" Bluey mutters, "Why?"

"Jean-Luc and you…you guys seem so happy with each other, and I…I got worried you might replace me with Jean-Luc."

"Mack-I," Bluey studders, carefully choosing the words to come out of her mouth. "Don't worry about us…I will always be with you, Mackenzie…"

Mackenzie's face lit up slightly as Bluey kept talking. She started caressing his right cheek, where he had his hand over hers. "Look…I missed Jean-Luc for over eleven years. Of course I want to spend time with him and catch up. But that will never change our relationship."

"Im..glad to hear it…But…"

Bluey raises her eyebrows, waiting for Mackenzie to muster the courage to ask away.

"I'm just gonna say it…" Mackenzie mutters determinately before finally asking, "Do you like Jean-Luc?"

"What?" Bluey leans her head back, shocked by the question, "Why do you think I-Oh"

The realization of what happened in the improvised concert, how she behaved, and how she used to look at Jean-Luc finally hits Bluey like a hammer.

Of course Mackenzie would think she has feelings for Jean-Luc. She was acting like she had fallen in love with him.

"Oh, I see what you mean."

"I won't get mad at you if you say you have feelings for him."

"No, no, no, no," Bluey silenced him, removing her hands from his cheeks and shaking them. "I get it. Honestly, I was just happy to share the moment with him."

"And the photo you uploaded to the group chat of you guys hugging each other at the park?"

"I suggested that photo to keep it as a memory. There is nothing romantic between the two of us."

…

Somehow…that didn't feel good to say for Bluey. She probably saved her chances of dating Mackenzie, but discarding Jean-Luc like that doesn't feel good within her.

"Shrug it off…your heart belongs to him, not Jean-Luc," Thinks Bluey rapidly as Mackenzie slowly relaxes in front of her, and she asks. "So…what about what you were talking about in the restroom?"

"He…wanted to leave a note to you saying that he wants to see you again, but he didn't say anything to us about what he was planning to do."

"Oh, that note," Bluey reacts, amazed. "He already gave the note before you showed up at the pink tree, but somehow I lost it. You found it, and Jean-Luc returned it to me."

"Really!?" Mackenzie's eyes open up

"Yeah…Thanks for finding that note."

"Yeah, I guess… as I said before, I already talked to Jean-Luc about it."

"Ok…"

"That's…All…Sorry for how I was behaving with you before," Mackenzie apologized.

"It's ok…" Bluey scratched the back of her neck as she stepped back, looking at her secret crush from his chest to his face. She quickly thought for herself of the things he said to her and put them in a pot in her mind.

Massive distrust of Jean-Luc

Battle with him to prove he is stronger than Jean-Luc

And last but not least…Being sad after watching her and Jean-Luc sing

He is…

"Sorry for making you feel jealous," Bluey apologized out of nowhere.

"Jealous!?"

"Yeah, you don't fool me," Bluey says, almost laughing.

"I was never Jealous," Mackenzie retorts with all his fingers over where his heart is like an offended person.

"I know you were jealous, and I don't blame you, considering how close I was to him," Bluey says, giving some confidence in him. "After all that I did for Jean-Luc the last couple of days. Some days for myself before classes wouldn't be too bad."

"Yeah, I agreed…"

".." Bluey stays quiet, thinking in her head what it means that Mackenzie is jealous of Jean-Luc. Could it be that he is jealous that Jean-Luc is spending more time with her and him?

Could it be something as profound as he is jealousy that she and Jean-Luc are spending quality time together?

Or…

Something as…

He is jealous because he wants to date her.

This…

It could be the sign she is waiting for…

He could have the same feeling as her…

"I gotta do this," Bluey thinks in awe in her mind.

"Actually," Bluey says, normally catching Mackenzie's attention. "Do you remember what you said before I went camping?"

"No? Too many things happened afterward that I don't remember," Mackenzie says, putting a hand on the back of his head.

"That when I return from camping…we should see the new superheroes movie."

"Oh, I remember now."

"What about we go see that movie?" Bluey suggested, happily wagging her tail

"With you? I would love to," Mackenzie responded happily, also wagging his tail. "Should we go tomorrow?"

"Tomorrow sounds good."

"Hooray," Mackenzie celebrated by raising his hands and extending his index fingers, simulating his arms.

Bluey carelessly laughs at the Collie gesture. When she finishes, she suggests, "Let's go to the back; maybe we can have you sing the next one."

"Nah," Mackenzie and Bluey start walking back to the backyard. "I just wanna watch."

---

As Bluey and Mackenzie get closer to the backyard

Bingo's Drums sound in the distance.

A guitar sound in the distance

A female voice singing in the distance.

The singing shouts sound in the distance.

The two best friends look at each other, nod, and walk faster to the back to find

Honey, awake and full of life, singing to a microphone on a stand and playing her plastic fiberglass yellow guitar with her fast fingers on the bench used as a stage, Bingo on the drums going crazy with her drumsticks, and all of their friends dancing and singing in the backyard like a dancefloor of a club in downtown.

"Looks like we arrive just in time to see Honey sing," says Mackenzie, looking at the scene before him.

Everyone follows the fast beats of the drums and guitar until the song hits a slow moment with no instruments playing, leaving the singer, Honey, to shine with her vocals on the bridge part of the song.

Hold me close,

We're losing time

Hold me close,

We're falling to the ground.

Guys like Rusty, Felix, and Bandit whistle in the air, followed by Bingo's bass drum hits. The whistling ends before Honey sings again rapidly.

Taxi drivers

The sun is rising

Damn the sirens

Keep on driving

Flashing light

Oh, what a night

I miss her bed

I lost my head

And it's stunning!

We're still running!

For her rooftop!

Our last stop!

Barefoot, naked

Don't you let me goooooo

Bingo joins the climax, hitting her drums hard. "LET'S GO!" Bluey grabs Mackenzie by his hand and drags him fast into the party and dance.

To your place, place, place

We're on our way, way, way

We're on our way, way, way

We're on our way somehow

Hold me close, close, close

We're losing time, time, time

We're losing time, time, time

We're falling to the ground

Bluey and Mackenzie do their best to dance, holding each other's hands and jumping around alongside their friends. They manage to spot couples like Rusty and Indy or Bandit and Chilli dancing like professionals, some random pairings like Dougie dancing with Lila or Chloe dancing with Snickers. Or small groups like Judo, Coco, and Pompom or Winton, Pretzel, and Jack dancing together or just something as simple as standing outside and singing with their hearts out like Lucky, Banjo, Sadie, Dusty, and Jean-Luc

But even in the controlled chaos, Bluey and Mackenzie still had their sights on each other, laughing and smiling the rest of the song.

We are young, we are one

Let us shine for what it's worth

To your

Place, place, place

We're on our way, way, way

We're on our way, way, way

We're on our wayyyy

"La La La lalalala La La lalalala" Everyone around Bluey and Mackenzie starts singing as Honey keeps repeating, "This night will never end, this night will never end."

While lost in the moment, Bluey accidentally clashes with her back against Winnie's. This causes her to lose balance and fall forward, but Mackenzie quickly reacts and catches her just in time to hug her. After the scare, Bluey slowly recomposes herself to be face to face with her secret lover, a mere inches of the fur of his face. Disconnecting from reality to admire the Border Collie's eyes

Hold me close,

We're losing time

Hold me close,

We're falling to the ground…

Honey finishes singing, Bingo throws away her drumsticks, everyone around cheers and claps joyfully, and Bluey and Mackenzie are still within millimeters of each other.

Jean-Luc sees the couple's position, and a gigantic smile appears on his face. He covers his mouth to say muffledly, "He shoots, he scores."

As everyone around scattered everywhere, Mackenzie and Bluey finally let go of each other and stood before each other, still admiring everything about them. And as the world around them continues as usual. Both dogs think at the same time.

"Tomorrow…"

"I will tell him/her how I feel."

Notes:

Songs used

Bingo and Banjo: Dubidubidu by Christell (Spanish song)

Felix: Vamos a portarnos mal by Calle 13 (Spanish song)

Sadie, Harley and Juniper: Black widow by Iggy Azalea ft Rita ora

The Jaspers, Bently and Zara: Ojitos lindos by Bad bunny and Bomba estereo (Spanish)

Judo: So high school by Taylor Swift

Rusty and Jack: Boulevard of broken dreams by Green day

Chloe and Winnie: Chandelier by Sia

Bluey and Jean-Luc: Fotografia by Juanes and Nelly Furtado (Spanish)

Honey: On our way by The royal concept

References

"Statements, made" is a phrase used by the F1 account on Twitter (You are not catching me calling it X in a normal conversation) to describe Lando Norris's large margin of victory in the Dutch Grand Prix earlier this year.

"Simply lovely" Max Verstappen's catchphrase after something good goes his way, like winning a race…also kudos to him for winning the F1 championships in Las Vegas.

"You miss 100% of the shots you don't take," is a quote by Canadian hockey Hall of Famer Wayne Gretzky. An absolute legend in the Hockey community

"He shoots, He scores." A phrase coined by Canadian Hockey commentator Foster Hewitt

One more chapter in this act

Feel free to leave reviews or kudos if you are liking this so far

And until next time

Chapter 14: Heart dont fail me now

Notes:

11,900 words… longest chapter up to now…hold on to something

 

"Ughhhh"

The cell phone camera turns on, showing the flipped camera aiming at the ceiling and the wasted face of Snickers without his hat.

"How the fuck do I turn this off" complains Snickers slurredly, mouth semi-open, red cheeks and obvious stupidity for not knowing how to stop recording in his OWN cellphone, clears signs of him being drunk and beyond drunk.

"WIENER DOG," Pretzel's drunk voice and the music of a party sound far from him and the phone camera. "I NEED YOU HERE TO SHOW THESE LADIES A LESSON IN BEER PONG"

"COMING," Snickers answers back, looking away from the camera. He looks back at the cellphone screen and taps several things to stop recording, but it doesn't work. "Bah, I will deal with you later." Snickers puts the phone down on top of a table and sets off to help Pretzel

But because Snickers is beyond help, he didn't realize he set up the cell phone leaning against the TV on top of the table to perfectly record the living room's couch and the small trail outside the transparent glass wall showing the darkness of the night.

*Chloe's house*

*Two months ago*

Snicker's cell phone keeps recording. In the beginning, nothing was happening until the shouts of Pretzel, Jack, and Snickers and the grunts of Winnie, Coco, and Chloe could be heard off-camera

Later in the recording, it managed to catch Rusty and Indy holding hands and talking normally as they walked to the front porch through the small trail outside.

Not much later, the recording catches Lucky and Judo with red cheeks in the same trail, but these two stop in the middle and face each other. Judo puts her arms around Lucky's neck, and Lucky puts his hands on her hips. They put their lips together passionately, their mouths opening and closing, dragging their lips on top of each other's lips and getting their tongues out to dance in the middle French style, moving their hands everywhere on each other's bodies since none was around to see them. Judo stops making out with Lucky to pull him closer to whisper in his ear. With the message sent and with his tail wagging, Lucky separates from her and puts a hand on her hip to start walking together out of the camera's point of view.

Another set of cheers and grunts from the participants in the game of beer pong could be heard off-camera

And finally, movement in the living room

Walking tired with her arms down and holding one red cup filled with alcohol, Bluey makes her way slowly to the couch, doing everything she can to not trip or fall to the floor due to her tired legs. When she arrived next to the couch, Bluey put her drink on the floor and let herself fall backward onto the couch with her legs on it like a bed. The camera also records Bluey's wasted face with red cheeks, demonstrating she is also under the influence.

From out of the camera, Mackenzie shows up with red cheeks, too, walking calmly towards the couch with one drink in his hand. He stops next to the couch and moves Bluey's feet out of his way to make space for him to sit down.

"Hello?" Complained Bluey with a frown on her face

"Sup Bluey," Mackenzie responds carefreely as he makes himself comfortable mimicking Bluey's position. Laying down on the other end of the couch with their legs on it.

"Where are your manners?" Bluey still complains in a low, angry voice at Mackenzie

"Since when do you care about manner?" Mackenzie mutters back, still carefree as he starts caressing Bluey's leg and feet

"Since you moved my feet away, you fucking old movie."

"Good to know."

"Ughhhhh" Bluey leaned her head back to let out her frustrations before looking at Mackenzie again and said, "I'm definitely not drinking like this for a long time."

"Why?"

"I can already feel the morning headache from here," Bluey says, putting her hand on her forehead.

"Well…I honestly would like to drink this every day," Mackenzie confesses.

"Dumbass" Bluey leans out of the couch, dips her fingers in her drink, and flicks them to Mackenzie.

"Aghh." Mackenzie shut his eyes as the small drops of alcohol landed on his fur. He opened his eyes and complained in a low voice, "What was that for?"

"I want a real friend. Not an alcoholic friend," Bluey says, worrying in a low tone.

"I was joking, you rude, lazy Heeler"

"'Honestly' and 'Joking' don't go together, you dumb fuck"

"Hmph," Mackenzie sounded off, still looking at Bluey straight in her eyes.

…

"I know that face…" Bluey says, raising her hand and pointing at him with a bouncing finger

"What?"

"I can see you in full color, Eighties."

"Wow…my nickname. This outta be good."

"That's your face of something is bothering you."

"Uh-huh"

"What's going on, Mackenzie?"

Mackenzie raised his eyebrows to look at Bluey's face for a few seconds before saying, "How honest do you want me to be?"

"Do you remember…" Bluey says, completely relaxed, "...the time when Ms Calypso called us to go back to the school after recess. You didn't show up, and we had to look for you until I found you hiding in a slide. I tried to take you back with Calypso, but you refused. When I asked you why, you opened up to me about your separation anxiety…That honest with me."

"Fair…" Mackenzie leans out of the couch to take a sip of alcohol before going back and tell Bluey, "It's my mother and that stupid exchange program."

"For real life?"

Mackenzie nods before continuing, "She is on my nerves and Dad's nerves. She can't go to sleep without telling my father or me what to do and what not to do," Mackenzie gives his best impression of his mother. "Mackenzie, you gotta cut the grass like a responsible teenager at your age. Fozzie you gotta stop watching too much TV and clean the restroom like a normal husband. Mackenzie, you gotta stop playing too many video games and read a book like a teenager with a future."

"Well, I agree with your mother on the last one."

"Do I really look like a loser?" Mackenzie extends his arms out to show himself

"I mean…we are still young, we still got time to figure out our shit before uni," says Bluey before leaning out the couch and taking a sip from her cup

"Exactly…" Mackenzie says, retracting his arms and continues caressing Bluey's leg. "And to make matters worse, the program finally designated someone to live with us, so Mum is even more on our nerves."

"For real life," Bluey says as Mackenzie nods. "Who is he…or she?"

"Is a he, but I honestly don't fucking care who it is, im so done with all this shit."

"But weren't you-"

"I know I was excited about this ever since my mother suggested using the spare room of the new house as a dedicated room for exchange students…But holy shit Bluey, my Mum is being-

"A bitch?" Bluey Interrupts with a finger pointing at him

"You-" Mackenzie stops caressing her leg, leans out of the couch, dips his finger in the alcohol, and flicks them to Bluey.

"Ahh." Bluey closes her eyes as the drops of alcohol wet her fur. She opens them to look at Mackenzie and says, still in a low voice, "In my defense, she sounds like one."

"She is being toxic. My Mum is being so toxic," Mackenzie finished what he wanted to say, annoyed at Bluey as he started caressing her leg again.

"Sheesh…just to make it up to you. You wanna hear a confession?"

Mackenzie simply raises his eyebrows.

"I honestly…" Bluey starts confessing, "...Don't give a single shit about this exchange student."

"Really?" Mackenzie's eyes open entirely

"Yeah," Bluey nods. "I don't get why we get all these updates and hype from your family about this guy coming from where only his mother knows him, just to stay here for a year. Like, he is not you guys. I don't wanna get close to him just to feel sad when he leaves. When he gets here, I'm just going to ignore him until the end of the year."

"You…have a point, but why?"

"Because I know a thing or two about meeting someone, having a good time with him, and then see him gone the next morning."

"Wow, never heard of this before"

"Because there is no need to…It's Just a memory I wanna leave behind."

"Sounds like you got issues," Mackenzie says

"I will have issues if I get to spend way too much time with him, as long as I have the freedom to stay away from him…I will be fine."

"Alright…So…should we create a club just you, me and my father

"About?" Bluey says, completely tired

"The club of 'I totally hate this exchange student'...You in?" Mackenzie says

"Im in." Bluey raises her fist so Mackenzie can fistbumps her. After the fistbumps, Bluey involuntary yawns while extending her arms upwards. When she is done, She gets off the couch and gets on again to lie down on top of Mackenzie.

"What are you doing?" Mackenzie says as he starts feeling the weight of the Heeler on his legs and hip

"Act like a pillow and shut up," Bluey says as she moves forward enough to lay her head on Mackenzie's chest to close her eyes. She puts a hand next to her head to feel the chest's fur, and the other hand goes around Mackenzie's body in a poor attempt to hug him.

With a female Heeler on top of him, completely trapping him, Mackenzie doesn't have any more remedies than putting his hands on Bluey to hug her head. One of his hands is near her ear, so in a bold move, he caresses it with his hand.

Mackenzie kept caressing Bluey's ear until she whispered, "Keep going. It feels good," causing him to double down and caress the rest of her head and body with his other hand as he closed his eyes.

The camera on Snicker's phone keeps recording them for a while, capturing the wholesome moment between the two best friends as the music at the party is still alive somewhere else in Chloe's home. Mackenzie keeps doing his job as he asks, whispering, "How long before Lucky takes us home?"

"I don't know," Bluey whispers, too. "Lucky is probably drilling Judo somewhere, so we have a lot of time left."

"Good…" Mackenzie whispers as he focuses on caressing the soft, well-maintained fur of his best friend

…

…

…

"FUCK YOU, PRETZEL"

"WHAT DID I DO?"

"FUCK YOU, PRETZEL!"

"WHAT DID I DO!?"

Mackenzie and Bluey open their eyes and look toward Coco and Pretzle's screams with annoyed frowns. "Fuck you, Pretzle," both say in a low voice.

"You wanna take care of that?" Bluey mutters, still looking away

"Frank and Fido will take care of that."

"Ok," Bluey says as she snuggles back to relax on top of Mackenzie's chest and closes her eyes.

Mackenzie looks around the living room, admiring the modern and expensive look of the Dalmatian's house. He still looks around until his eyes land on the TV…And Snicker's phone

Mackenzie opens his eyes, confused, and says to Bluey, "Give me a second." He gently moves Bluey toward the back of the couch to give him enough space to get up. After standing up and walking toward the TV, he notices the cell phone. "What?" Mackenzie mutters as he picks up the device and turns around. The screen and recording show him his confused and angry face and the TV behind him. "Someone has been recording us."

"What!?"

"Do you know whose phone is this?" Mackenzie asks

"Ummm, Looks like Snicker's. What the fuck is he doing?"

"huh, no idea," Mackneize says as he shows his middle finger angrily to the camera before ending the video himself.

---

*Present day*

Bluey opens her eyes. The curtain filters the bright rays of the sun into her room. She starts to feel her beaten body inside her bed sheets after partying the night before.

The sun rays infiltrating Bluey's room are the same rays going through the curtain of Mackeznie's room, who also opens his eyes and feels his bed sheets on top of his tired body.

Both teenagers raise up with tired faces and think.

"Today…is the day"

Bluey gets out of her bed and stands straight. She begins shaking her body to straighten her fur, which got messed up while sleeping, before passing her comb into the restroom.

Mackenzie gets out of his room after shaking himself. He sees Jean-Luc's room door in front of him, the same exchange student he was reluctant to meet two months before meeting him at the airport. After looking at his door, he walks to the restroom.

Bluey finally arrives and gets in the restroom. She sees the mirror over the sink and looks at her face; some patches of fur are still out of place.

Mackenzie opens the mirror's cabinet to spot two toothbrushes, toothpaste, two pairs of scissors, and two combs, one for him and one for Jean-Luc.

Bluey grabs her comb next to Bingo's from the cabinet and closes it to start working on her coat.

Mackenzie takes his time to pass the comb through every place where his coat covers his skin.

Throughout her arms

Throughout his face

Throughout her sides

Throughout his legs

Throughout her shoulders

Throughout his back

And throughout her hair, where Bluey shapes her tuff of hair she decided to keep it since she was ten, a clear distinction to stand out from her family.

Mackenzie passes the comb until he looks like the same dog everyone knows of. Mackenzie opens the mirror's cabinet to put the comb away and to grab his toothbrush and toothpaste.

Bluey put some of the cream on top of his light blue toothbrush and moved it to her mouth to start scrubbing it, especially to get rid of the smell of alcohol she drank in her little adventure with Lucky, Rusty, and Adam.

After removing the smell of ham, salami, and cheese from the night before in his mouth, Mackenzie cleans his red toothbrush and puts it next to Jean-Luc's carmesi red toothbrush…but notices a breath spray in one corner of the cabinet.

Bluey's mom, Chilli, bought her the breath spray in case Bluey really needed to get rid of any severe bad breath or simply in case Bluey had any romantic moments with Mackenzie or any other lover…But Bluey never really cared to take it everywhere with her or to keep it in her room because…she is still single.

But somehow, Fozzy's words really bounce inside Mackeznie's mind, but considering today is extra special, he grabs it, opens his mouth, and presses down on it to liberate a mint spray into his mouth.

After spraying the uncomfortable liquid in her mouth, Bluey puts the small bottle back and closes the cabinet, leaving her with the look of herself in the mirror.

Mackenzie put his hand on each side of the sink to take a really good look at himself with a determined face.

"Look at you…" Bluey begins to talk to herself in the mirror with her hands on each side of the sink.

"You look so good," Mackenzie says, looking at himself in the mirror.

"So presentable"

"Eleven years of knowing her…"

"Comes down to this," Bluey says determinately.

"Today is the day man,"

"You…" Bluey points at herself with her right hand

"...Are going to confess to her what you are feeling" Says Mackenzie

"You…"

"...Are not sleeping tonight until you tell her what you are feeling."

"No more backing down."

"No more excuses."

"No more running away."

"You are going to become her boyfriend."

"And we will live happily ever after."

"Go get her man!"

Bluey pushed herself away from the sink and walked out of the restroom back to her room.

Mackenzie walks to his bed, picks up his cell phone, and starts texting his date.

---

Mackenzie: Good morning, Bluey!

Bluey: Good morning, Mackenzie! I was just about to text you first.

Mackenzie: I guess I just beat ya to it

Mackenzie: What time are you thinking of going to the movie theater?

Bluey: Definitely at night. Who goes to the movie theater in the middle of the day?

Mackenzie: Good point

Mackenzie: Sooooo, around like 7ish

Bluey: 7 pm sounds good

Bluey: Did you talk to your parents about taking us there?

Mackenzie: I can talk to my parents. They are still off from work.

Bluey: don't worry about it. Dad already volunteers to take us there.

Bluey: I'm going to call you if we are outside

Mackenzie: Good, see you at 7

Bluey: See ya!

---

*A lot of hours later*

*10 minutes before 7 pm*

*Border Collies house*

After preparing again with a lot of good passes with the comb and using half the breath spray, Mackenzie finally makes his way down to his home's living room and kitchen. As he finishes going down the stairs, he is met by his parents sitting side by side at the table, with Jean-Luc standing on the other side with a green board behind him.

"Hey…What's going on here?... And why is there a green board here? We don't have one in the first place," Mackenzie says, absolutely weirded out by the situation.

"Hey Mack," Jean-Luc turns to greet him. "I'm just having a really necessary conversation here, and I just found the green board lying around."

"Mum, Dad?" Mackenzie turns his head toward them

"He said something about learning how to pronounce his name," Mel answers, shrugging lightly her shoulders.

"Yes…" Jean-Luc turns to her. "It is to teach you guys how to pronounce my name."

"Look, we are so sorry that we mispronounced your name; it wasn't our intention."

"That's why we are here…" Says Jean-Luc as if he is on the verge of losing it. "I'm gonna teach you guys how to pronounce it. Because…" Jean-Luc squishes his lips together and widens his mouth. His eyes open up, and his face shakes as he tries to hold on to the little sanity he has left. "...How is it possible that everyone in the party knows how to pronounce my name perfectly while I'm here hearing 'Jan-Luck' and 'Jack-Luc'…I am NOT going to spend the rest of my time here hearing my mispronounced name."

"Sorry…" Fozzy looks down in shame

"But I said it perfectly three days ago," Mel added with an innocent hand up.

"Je ne suis pas intéressé" Jean-Luc snaps at Mel "We are doing this today anyways"

"Luke…" Mackenzie puts a hand on the Labrador's shoulder and says with an undertone of warning "Slow it down, this is my family, and you are going to watch your tone."

Jean-Luc inhales and let go slowly before answering to Mackenzie, "Yeah…Sorry, it's just I feel like we need to address this."

"Don't worry about us," Says Mel cheerfully to lighten the mood. "We are ready to learn your name Jan-"

Jean-Luc raises one eyebrow, expecting Mel to say his name.

"...Actually, let's just start the class." Mel dismissed with her hand as she giggled while her husband next to her just nodded awkwardly

"Ok…Im just going to be over there on the couch waiting for Bluey."

"Alright," the three other canines answer as Mackenzie walks away and Jean-Luc starts his class.

---

*Heeler's house*

After her final preparations to look as pretty as possible for Mackenzie, Bluey finally shows up to the kitchen while her parents are preparing the dinner with Bingo on the table, watching something on her laptop with her headphones on

"Dad, it's time. We gotta pick up Mackeznie," Bluey notice.

"Alright, I will be back." Bandit kissed his wife's cheeks before stepping out of the kitchen to be next to Bluey

Despite wearing headphones, Bingo hears her sister and takes off her headphones to say, "Have fun with Mackenzie. Also, don't bring an extra member to this family."

"BINGO!" All three heelers exclaimed at the same time

"I'm just saying the quiet part out loud." Bingo shrinks as she puts the headset back on and focuses again on her laptop

"Well, she has a point," Bandit says as the father-daughter duo starts walking to the stairs to go down.

"Dad…" Bluey rolls her eyes

As Bluey and her father leave the house, Bingo peeks her head on top of the laptop to see if they are really gone. With the coast clear and her mother still working in the kitchen, Bingo pulls out her cell phone and types to Rusty.

Bingo: Blue dove is out

Bingo: Whatever you are doing, do it now

Rusty: We got this

Rusty: Operation Blue Dove x Kiwi part 5 black room with crappy Superheroes movie edition is now in full effect.

Bingo: *Rolling eyes emoji*

---

*Border-Collies house*

While browsing through his Instapaw page and lying down on the couch, Mackenzie looks at the posts his friends made about yesterday's party. From moments like playing games like musical chairs to his friends singing on top of the wooden bench around the tree, Mackenzie thought how lucky he was to share a friendship with all of them…at least until he saw a photo by Zara with Jean-Luc and Bluey singing.

The Border Collie couldn't help but feel sad about the photo. Deep inside, he wished it was him and Bluey, but that was already a thing of the past. Now…he wasn't that upset about that moment anymore. He will confess to Bluey, and Jean-Luc totally assumed the role of a wingman to support him.

Mackenzie scrolls down to the next post, this one by Joe the Terrier. It is a photo of all the terrier brothers, their stepbrother Winton, Winnie, Juniper, and Chucky, all with their tongues slightly out posing for a silly photo with the caption 'I love partying with my friends.' However, there is a comment underneath, and Mackenzie reads it.

Bailey13prettyterrier: You guys look so dumb *Laughing emoji*

"Ugh," Mackeznie rolls his eyes and scrolls to the next post.

Ding*

Mackenzie's eyes open as his phone sounds off, and a notification with a message from Bluey drops down on him.

Bluey: Im outside

Mackenzie's tail wags with excitement under him. He gets up and off the couch and says to his parents and housemate, "I'm leaving now. See you guys later."

"See ya, Mack." "See ya, Mackenzie." Both Border-Collies say goodbye

"See you later, Mack," Jean-Luc says, but as Mackenzie turns around to walk to the door, Jean-Luc calls him "Mackenzie!"

Mackenzie stops in his tracks, weirded out that Jean-Luc has used his real name, but he turns his head to look at him.

"When I used to play with my team last year," Jean-Luc started speaking with a finger slightly up to point at him. "The captain always made us shout out a motto before going to the rink to remind ourselves to not leave anything behind and to not be scared."

Mackenzie turns his body entirely to hear Jean-Luc.

"Maman a élevé un garde, pas un lâche. Mom raised a guardian, not a coward."

"Mum raised a guardian, not a coward." Mackenzie repeats to himself, muttering before saying normally, "Thanks, Luke, I will keep that in mind."

"Good luck out there," Jean-Luc says before turning to face Mel and Fozzie.

"Thanks," Mackenzie says as he walks towards the exit of his home.

After Mackenzie walks out of the house and closes the door behind him, he is met by the soft darkness of another night in Brisbane. Light posts are on, and he can feel the cold night in his fur. He spots the red SUV of the heeler parked in front of the house and anxiously walks over the cement path to reach the pavement and the red car.

Mackenzie opened the unlocked door to find Bluey in the back seat on the other side of the car. "Hi, Mackenzie!" She greets happily with a waving hand

"Hi, Bluey!" Mackenzie gets in the car, scooch over, and hugs Bluey, who gladly accepts it

"Hey mate," The voice of the adult Heeler makes his presence known in the front seat.

"Ah," Mackenzie and Bluey stop hugging each other, and the Collie replies, "Hi Mr-Heeler,"

"I thought I was Bandit to you?" Bandit quips affable, causing Bluey to laugh a little

"Oh yeah…Bandit," Mackenzie says, scratching the back of his head shamefully.

"Where to, guys?" Bandit asks

"The same movie theater where we watched 'Guardians of the Planet 3,'" Bluey says, leaning to the front seats.

"Alright," Bandit said, focusing his sight on the front. "Seat belts, and let's go," He said before putting the gear in drive and driving out of the neighborhood.

---

*Gallia Cinemas movie theater*

15 minutes later*

"Alright, guys," Bandit says to the two teenagers, who are already on the sidewalk with the moonlight of the night on them and the massive movie theater behind them. "Have fun, don't do anything dumb, and please save some popcorn for me."

"Will do, Dad, see you later" says Bluey as she and Mackenzie wave him goodbye as Bandit drives away

After Bandit is out of sight, Mackenzie turns to Bluey and asks, "Excited?"

Bluey turns to him and responds with a tiny glow in her eyes, "Yeah…It will be fun watching the movie with you."

Mackenzie slightly wags his tail when looking at Bluey's eyes. "Yeah, with you, everything is more fun."

Bluey giggles cutely as her tail starts to wag, too. She holds herself together to say, "Let's go inside; the popcorn ain't gonna buy itself."

"I agree," Mackenzie responded as both dogs turned to the entrance and walked together.

The moment the automatic doors slide open to let the couple in, revealing the semi-empty lobby, Bluey and Mackenzie are hit right in their nostrils by the strong smell of buttered popcorn coming from the concession area. But between food and the entrance, there is the box office, booths with windows separating the exterior from the interior, a screen at the bottom, and a microphone to talk to the dog on the other side.

All booths were empty except one with a female red Kelpie wearing her red and light blue uniform on her phone. Kiosks to purchase tickets were next to the booths, but all of them had signs that they were out of order, so the couple had no other option than to walk to the Kelpie.

"Excuse me," Bluey interrupts the Kelpie, who jumps scared at the sound of her. She puts the cell phone away and looks at Bluey. "Two tickets for Guardians of the Planet 3, please."

The young kelpie presses the button to activate the microphone, says, "Sure," and taps her screen several times until the screen in front of the couple turns on and shows the couple a diagram of the green seats and five red seats inside the function "The green seats are the available ones, and the red ones are taken."

"Geez," Mackenzie reacts, amazed. "The movie sucked that bad?"

"Yeah…where do you wanna sit?" Bluey says, looking at the sea of green seats on the screen

"What about…" Mackenzie taps at two seats located in the center but a few rows back. "These seats right there."

"Sounds good." Bluey accord

"Those ones?" The Kelpie asks through the microphone, to which Bluey and Mackenzie nod, "Ok."

The kelpie taps the screen again until she says, "It's going to be 18 dollars."

"I got this." Mackenzie pulls out his father's debit card to hand it to the Kelpie through the little tray

The kelpie retracts the tray and picks up the car to process the payment, but accidentally, she leaves the tray halfway so the couple hears her say, "Geez, and it's going to be in the only room with the broken camera…these people are going to have fun."

Bluey and Mackenzie side-eye each other with slightly red coloring on their cheeks. The kelpie finished what she had to do, put the card and the tickets back into the tray, and pushed it to the couple. "Enjoy the movie," the kelpie says through the microphone, ignoring entirely what she said seconds ago.

"Thanks," the couple says simultaneously as they start to walk to the back of the lobby, where the concessions area is

The couple finally arrived at the area famous for its popcorn. There was nobody around except for a strong young adult white male Alaskan Malamute with purple hair, a white and maroon headband, and wearing an apron pacing around the concession stand.

The Malamute turns around when he notices Bluey and Mackenzie's presence and exclaims with a rough tone, "FINALLY, people to help."

"Oh…" Mackenzie stops immediately when his eyes land on him…he recognized him from high school. "Hi, Raz."

"Wait…" Raz squinted his eyes until he opened them up immediately. "No way, dude! It's been a long time, Mack."

"Yeah!" Mackenzie gets closer to him and high-fives him. "Dude, how have you been?"

"I'm doing awesome," Raz says excitedly. "Just working hard, men, just working hard."

"Do I know you?" Bluey gets in the exchange with a curious finger up, pointing at him

"I used to have P.E. class with him two years ago," Mackenzie answers anyway. "This dude was the toughest guy in our class, one time he got hit by a ball right in the face, and he just walked it off screaming, 'IM INVINCIBLE!'"

"Hahaha," Raz laughs peacefully before saying, "Yeah…Good times. I saved a smaller classmate from being hit, so that was a worthy sacrifice." Raz moves to the nearest register and says happily, "What can I get you guys today?"

"DUDEEEE!" a young female screams from the back before a young red Kelpie with a red and light blue hat and apron walks towards Raz. "Boss talked. You are going on break."

"Wait, who are you?"

"I'm just someone very important. Now go on your break," the Kelpie said authoritatively.

"But can I take my break after helping them?" Raz talked back like a scolded puppy

"Nope, They want you on break now and are not asking."

"Awwwwww," Raz drops his shoulders, defeated, and says before walking away, "Ok…I will do it."

As Raz walks out of the concession area towards the back, the young red kelpie takes his place on the register in front of Bluey and Mackenzie. "Sorry about that…What can I get for you?"

"Ahhhhh." Bluey and Mackenzie looked at each other from the corner of their eyes, uncomfortable about the situation that just happened, but Bluey was the first to respond, "Two sodas and a large bucket of popcorn."

"Ok, it's going to be 15 dollars."

"Alright," Bluey says, pulling out her father's debit card.

"What are you doing?" Mackenzie says, bewildered at Bluey

"Paying for the popcorn," Bluey also says, bewildered at her best friend.

"Nah, let me do it." Mackenzie pulls out his card.

"No, Let me do it. You already paid for the tickets. Let me pay for the food," Bluey insists.

"No, let me do it," insisted Mackenzie again as he moved close to the card reader.

"Nah, huh" Bluey shoves him out of the way with her body.

"Bluey!" Mackenzie shoves her out of the way with his body

The couple quarrel and bicker over who gets to pay for the popcorn, Pushing each other away or making a run for it and introducing the card to the reader before inevitably being blocked or pushed away.

"You guys look so romantic together," Commented the kelpie with a lovely sight, making them stop to look at her embarrassed with slightly red cheeks. "You know what…The popcorn and drinks are on the house."

"Oh…" Bluey and Makcneize calm themselves down before saying simultaneously "...Thanks" before the red kelpie walks away from the register to prepare the popcorn

---

*A couple of minutes later*

With a massive bucket of popcorn in their possession, one large drink each one, and already checked in, Bluey and Mackenzie walk through the semi-gloomy hall with red carpet on the floor until they get into the entrance of the room screen with the poster of the movie and a big number 7 on top of the door.

The couple entered the dark, spacious room. The projector cast its image towards the screen, faintly Illuminating the seats and the corridor, and the speakers sound off with the sounds of trailers and ads. When the couple arrives at the feet of the seating area, they only find empty seats.

"Looks like we are the first ones here," commented Mackenzie

"Yeah…Let's go. The movie is about to start," says Bluey as they walk up the steps with tiny lights on the side until they reach the far back row, where the seats are. It was just a matter of walking normally through the small corridor of empty seats to get to the middle of the row.

Bluey and Mackenzie sit down on the reclinable seats, with the popcorn on the Collie's lap and a drink on the cup holder on the right side of Makcnezie and a drink on the cup holder on the left side of Bluey, leaving the armrest in the middle of the two empty. Mackenzie and Bluey unwittingly put their arms on the empty space, crashing in the middle. Bluey gently looked at hers and his arm and whispered, "Hey."

Mackenzie also gently looks at what is happening and whispers, "Wanna share?"

Bluey's heart skipped a beat. She knew exactly how to share with him. "Yeah…" unexpectedly for Mackenzie, Bluey hold his hand to intertwine her fingers with his, sharing the armrest together.

"Good idea," Mackenzie whispers as he moves his thumb circularly around the fur of Bluey's hand and thumb. "Your fur is so soft."

"Thanks…Almond milk shampoo…" whispers Bluey as she moves her thumb around the fur of Mackenzie's thumb and hand and whispers after noticing how smooth it is, "...Looks like someone took advice from Radley."

"I had to give it a try."

"And you nailed it…I love it."

"Thanks…"

Bluey and Mackenzie caress each other's hands with their thumbs, dancing slowly over and under their thumbs as their sights are still on the trailers and ads on the big screen of the semi-dark room. Despite the show of love with their thumbs, Bluey and Mackenzie were on the same page mentally. This is the PG version of making out in the movie theater.

"Alright, Mack," the border Collie thinks. "It's time to make the first move."

Mackenzie puts the bucket of popcorn on the seat next to him with his free hand and gently shakes his other hand to liberate it from Bluey. She frowns, confused as she let go of his hand. Mackenzie extends his arms up and yawns on command. Bluey is not an idiot. She knows what he is trying to do….and she is going to fall for it on purpose.

As Macknezie's arms fall over Bluey, She raises the armrest and scooches closer to him. She puts her arms around his belly and back to hug him while Mackenzie's arm finally rests on Bluey's shoulders. "Looks like someone is tired," Bluey whispers, her face resting on his shoulder and really close to Macknezie's face.

"It's been a long day…but I'm glad I get to spend time with you," Mackenzie whispers gladly, moving his head softly to look at her.

"Me too, Mackenzie…Me too" whispers Bluey as she closes her eyes to relax completely, feeling his arm over her.

…

…

…

"You sure you wanna do this?"

"Huh?" Bluey opens her eyes and reacts mentally after hearing the voice of her younger self. But she quickly shrugs it off and whispers to him, "I missed cuddling with you."

"Yeah," Mackenzie whispers to her. "When was the last time we did this?"

"Chloe's Party two months ago."

"Oh yeah, I completely forgot about it."

"You were really drunk that night…Glad Frank didn't let Lucky drive us home and let us sleep in his house."

"I do remember that…Boys in one room and girls in the other one."

"Yeah…cuddling with Chloe and Winnie didn't feel the same as you."

"For real life?" Mackenzie whispers, amazed, as Bluey slightly nods under his arm. "Well…Cuddling with Jack and Rusty didn't feel the same as you."

"For real life?...you guys cuddle in the after-party?"

"Yeah…It was so cold some of us decided to cuddle. I cuddle with Rusty and Jack while the terriers and Winton cuddle in between them like a litter for newborns. The rest of the boys just slept by themselves."

"Geez, They gotta give your fur a break."

"I know…but you can hug me whenever you want."

"This is getting way too romantic," Thinks Bluey. "...go for it."

Bluey takes her sight off the screen and looks at Mackenzie, whose face is really close to her. "...I will take advantage of that then," she whispers as she slowly moves her mouth towards Mackenzie's.

"Wait, is she?..." Mackenzie thinks, "...Yeah, it looks like it. Go for it."

Mackenzie also moves his head slowly towards her. They close their eyes, expecting the contact with their noses to finally get their lips together, a moment they expected for a while that will change their relationship entirely to something beautiful and romantic that they hope will last forever.

CLANGGGGG*

"AHHH," Bluey jumps out of her position. Scared by the sound of thunder from the speakers, they didn't realize the film started while they were busy between them. "Biscuits! I forgot the movie started with thunder," Bluey complains in a normal tone, but as she is sitting normally, her curiosity beats her, and she slightly gets up to see the rest of the seats in front of her. "Wow…We are really alone in this place."

Mackenzie does the same thing as Bluey and says, "Yeah, we got the whole theater by ourselves."

"I guess we can just talk normally," Bluey says as she lays back.

"Yeah…" Mackenzie also lays back in his seat, grabs the bucket, and presents it to Bluey. "Popcorn?"

"Of course," Bluey says as she grabs a handful and starts eating to watch the movie with Mackenzie.

"That was close…" Both teenagers think at the same time, "...Really close."

---

*Border-Collies home*

"Jean-Luc…" the Labrador repeats His name as he taps the green board with his name on it with a stick. "A striking male name with origins in France bestowed by some of the most fearless guys in history. A name that requires the proper respect when it is pronounced."

Jean-Luc speaks as the Border Collie parents, Mel and Fozzie, pay close attention to him.

"Now…repeat after me." The Labrador moves the stick to the first part of his name, "Jean…"

"Jen…" "John…" Mel and Fozzie repeats

"Nononono…Jean…"

"Jan…" "Jen…"

"Merde… Again, Jeannnnnn"

"Jackkkk" "Yaaaaaa"

"Ouh" Jean-Luc facepalm Himself "oh putain c'est pas vrai…pffffffff"

Mel and Fozzie look at each other, baffled as Jean-Luc seems to have a mini crash-down

"We are taking a break…" Jean-Luc moves his other hand around to signal them to get lost. "I need a break…Merde"

---

*2 hours later*

*Gallia Cinemas movie theater*

"Credit where it's due… At least this ended in a cliffhanger," says Mackenzie with an empty bucket and almost empty drink as he and Bluey leave the room towards the lobby after watching the movie

"I feel like this movie got better when you watch it for a second time," says Bluey with an empty cup

"I think that's for obvious reasons, Bluey," Mackenzie sarcastically looks at Bluey while still walking.

"Hahaha, yeah, you are right. It was better because i laughed and shared the moment with you."

"We should do this more often."

"Yeah, definitely," Bluey says as both teenagers reach the lobby and the concession stand to get more popcorn for Bandit.

After Bluey and Mackenzie stand in front of the concession stand, they expect to find Raz wandering around, but instead, they find a young adult female, red Saluki, wearing a light blue and red hat and an apron.

"No way…" Bluey's eyes open when her gaze lands on her…She recognized her from high school. "Hi, Kai!"

Kai's ears lift, and she looks surprised at Bluey walking towards her. "Bluey?…BLUEY!"

When Bluey gets close enough, both girls hug each other the best they can since the counter is under them. After they separate, Bluey speaks first, "It's so nice to see you again."

"Me too…" Kai says in a mannish, humble tone. "How have you been? Are you still going to the dojo?"

"Yeah, I have my test for black belt this December."

"Good"

"I think I have seen your face before," Mackenzie says as he curiously points his finger at her.

"We used to have the same cooking class together 2 years ago," Bluey answered anyway. "She was so focused on learning to make the perfect bread every class."

"And I'm still trying…" Kai says with bits of hope in her voice as she moves to her register, "What can I get you guys tonight?"

"SISTERRRRRR" A Female scream comes out from the back, and again, the same female red kelpie as before comes out and walks towards Kai. "I need you to prepare to close this place and help Raz with the dishes."

"Wait, who are you?"

"Doesn't matter. Go to the back and help Raz."

"Ughh," Kai rolled her eyes, annoyed as she turned to the Kelpie. "Raz can take care of it. He is an adult now."

"Adult, child, or grandpa, he still needs help with the dishes."

"Ok, but can I help him after helping my friends here?" Kai requested

"No," the Kelpie shakes her head. "I need all hands on deck if we want to leave this place early."

"Tsk…Alright," Kai reluctantly walks away from her register and goes to the back, leaving the spot for the Kelpie.

"Sorry about that…again…but what can I get for you guys?" Says the female Kelpie

Like hours earlier, Bluey and Mackenzie looked at each other, weirded out, until Bluey looked at her and asked, "Can I have my bucket refilled with popcorn?" as she handed out her bucket.

"Ok…" The kelpie says as she grabs her bucket, "...Anything else?"

"Ummmmm," Mackenzie pounders with a hand under his mouth, looking at the menu above him: Popcorn buckets, Candy, drinks, meat pies, fish and chips…and ice cream shakes

"Can I get a small cookie ice cream shake?"

" Sounds good." The kelpie inputs the item and looks straight at Bluey, waiting for her to decide.

"Actually…" Bluey looks at the menu and examines the available flavors. " Can I get a small mango Ice cream shake?"

"Sorry…we are out of mango, strawberry, and caramel ice cream," says the kelpie in a blatant attempt to sound sad for Bluey. "Someone didn't do their job to order them."

"Awww," Bluey reacts sadly after dropping her shoulders and mutters, "Biscuits…"

Mackenzie gently looks at his sad best friend before looking at the menu again. He moves his eyes back and forth until he finally makes a decision. "Actually…Can I get a large cookie ice cream shake instead?"

"Mackenzie?" Bluey mutters, opening her eyes slowly, astonished

"Ok, fair enough," Says the kelpie, upgrading the shake's size. "Anything else?"

"Thats all," Mackenzie says with his father's card already out.

"Mackenzie, there is no need to do this," Bluey says guiltily.

"Contrary…" Mackenzie says as he finishes paying, "...this is totally necessary."

"Ha…You are the best, Mackenzie."

"Are you guys sure you are not dating?" The kelpie asks, pointing at both of them

"Ah." Bluey and Mackenzie look at each other and the kelpie repeatedly before both say, "We are just friends."

"Yeah, sure…" the female Kelpie finally walks off to prepare the shake and puts more popcorn in the bucket.

With the meddling Kelpie busy, Mackenzie and Bluey look at each other with a calm, reassuring, loving face while their tails begin to wag involuntarily.

---

*Border-Collie's home*

"Ok," Jean-Luc says with a tone of walking on a tightrope. He had a hand on his face, a stick in his other hand, several rubber balls, and three cups of hot tea on the table to keep himself together. "After 56 attempts at pronouncing the first part of my name…I think we are ready for the second part of my name."

"Hooray!" Both Border-Collie parents celebrate with open arms

Jean-Luc moves his hand towards his mouth and mutters angrily with his eyes closed, "Ne me faites pas. "Hooray," je suis suspendu à une corde raide en ce moment…" Jean-Luc removes his hand, opens his eyes, and sighs heavily to regain some posture. "...Ok, here we go…Luc"

"Lu" "Luck"

"Luc…"

"Lug" "Luc"

"Ok…we are getting there…Luc"

"Luk" "Lus"

"What the?…LUC!"

"Lusk" "Lut"

"WOW" Jean-Luc…simply…walked away in disbelief

---

*Outside Gallia Cinemas movie theater*

After getting more popcorn for Bandit in a bucket with a lid to preserve the snack and a large cookie ice cream shake, both teenagers decided to step outside the movie theater. They sat at a table while the nearby lights of the building and the moonlight shone on them.

"This shake is so good," says Bluey as she dips her spoon into the creamy ice cream and puts it in her mouth.

"Yeah…that Kelpie might look weird, but at least she can make some pretty good shakes," Says Mackenzie, holding a spoon with ice cream near his mouth before finally getting it into his mouth

"Yeah, right, that kelpie looks out of place…she doesn't look old enough to work there."

"I don't know; as far as we can tell, she might be 40 years old."

"True," Bluey says, dipping her spoon again.

Both teenagers keep eating their ice cream shake piece by piece, tasting the sweet vanilla ice cream with pieces of chocolate cookie mix in there. Sharing the same shake by themselves is a close-knit experience for both the Heeler and the Collie. A testament of their trust in each other, a reminder of the moments either Bluey or Mackenzie share their lunch with each other at school, a moment to remember what they mean to each other.

"Sooo," Bluey starts speaking, still eating ice cream "...How are things with Jean-Luc?"

"Good…" Mackenzie says, still consuming the ice cream. "I'm feeling better about him now."

"Awesome…He is a good kid."

"I know…he might have a big mouth, but I guess thats something we can deal with."

"Hahaha, Yeah, he does…out of all the dogs in the world that could have been living with you, we got lucky it was Jean-Luc."

"You might have known him before, but I'm still trying to meet him."

"You are not missing much; he is still that kind, cheeky, playful dog I met eleven years ago."

"Good to know…Soooo, are we gonna dismantle our little club?"

"The 'I totally hate this exchange student club'? Yeah, I think."

"You think?"

"Because if it were another dog, I would have kept my distance from him."

"How cruel you are."

"I'm just being honest," Bluey says, But a realization hits her like a batter hitting the ball, changing her happy and calm face to a sad and harrowing face.

Mackenzie's eyebrows shot up when he noticed the change in Bluey's face. "What's wrong?"

"I just remember…" Bluey joylessly speaks after leaving her spoon on the shake, "Jean-Luc will leave us one day."

"Oh, true," Mackenzie says with minimal importance.

Bluey leans back on her seat, looking up to the dark sky, and mumbles, "Fuck…"

"!" Mackenzie's eyebrows shot up again. Bluey doesn't swear often, creating a funny situation where Bingo curses more than she does. However, whenever Bluey wants to curse, she usually uses 'Biscuits' like her father. The only real situation where she would actually swear is when she has a couple of drinks in her when she gets mad. So hearing her swear without alcohol's help surprised Mackenzie. "What's wrong?" he asked again.

"I…" Bluey rocks her head forward to look at him. "...I do not know if I'm ready to see Jean-Luc gone again."

"Really?"

Bluey nods sadly. "It took me a week to come to terms with him leaving. And now that he is back…I really don't want him to leave."

"Bluey…" Mackenzie calls her in an undertone as he slowly moves to sit next to her and puts an arm around her shoulders. "I know Jean-Luc is important to you, but this is not his home. His home is in Canada, with his family and friends. At least you are lucky he is back now that we have our cell phone…so even if he leaves, we can still keep in contact with him."

"Yeah, you are right…" Bluey secretly passed a finger on her eyes to get rid of a small tear that came off.

"Plus, we still have one school year with him, so we just gotta enjoy it."

"Right." Bluey closes her eyes and leans into Mackenzie's shoulder to seek its warm

As Bluey is on his shoulder again, Mackenzie looks around over her to space out. Small fragments of memory from the party two months ago reproduce in his mind. He easily remembered everything that happened before he drank his first drink at the party. From there, it was blurry, but he still managed to put together something Bluey said while they were talking on the couch: "Wait…the guy you mentioned in Chloe's party…it was Jean-Luc?"

"How do you even remember that?" Bluey asks, whispering, "Yeah, it was him."

"I don't know, it just clicked."

"Ha…smart boy"

"Here…" Mackenzie grabs his spoon from the shake with ice cream with cookie bits. "Enough talking about Jean-Luc, take a little. It will make you feel better."

"Mackenzie, I don't want-"

"Liar," Mackenzie introduced the spoon into Bluey's mouth in a flash

"Ouh" Bluey closes her eyes and separates from Mackenzie, with him still holding the spoon while she sucks on it, tasting every molecule of the cold ice cream in her mouth. Mackenzie could hear her hums outside her mouth as she enjoyed the creamy dessert. She continued sucking until there was nothing left in her mouth except for the plastic spoon and finally pushed Mackenzie's hand out to take it out; she opened her eyes and looked at a dazed Mackenzie, who was looking at her with his mouth slightly open and slightly red coloring in his cheeks.

"Oh!" Bluey opened her eyes and put a hand on her mouth, ashamed of the little act she had done for Mackenzie. "Sorry, I didn't mean to…do that."

"Yeah, it's alright," Mackenzie says, still dazed.

"Hahahaha" Bluey laughs as she picks up her spoon to continue eating the rest of the shake.

"So far, this is going well," Thinks Bluey. "But I still need to confess to him. C'mon, you need to take him somewhere else."

"So, what do you wanna do now?" Bluey asks

"Ummmm"

"No way in hell…" Mackenzie thinks, "I'm confessing to her in front of a movie theater, no WAY!...luckily for me, there is a park nearby…yeah, there."

"There is a park nearby. Maybe we can walk over there and talk," Mackenzie finally suggested

"He is right," Bluey thinks. "There is a park nearby…yeah, I will confess myself there."

"That sounds amazing," Bluey says with shining eyes.

After deciding what to do next, both teenagers throw away what is left of the shake, pick up the bucket with popcorn, and begin walking toward the park…the place of the moment of truth for Bluey and Mackenzie.

---

*Border-Collie's house*

"OK," Jean-Luc says, sitting down with the Border Collie parents on the other side, with the face of a maniac plastered on him, squashing both rubber balls with both his hands and ten cups of hot tea in front of him. "I know it's been a long night, but I feel like we are getting there."

"Ok, I think we are ready," Mel says unsurely as Fozzie nods nervously.

"Alright…Jean-Luc"

"Jean-lu" "Jan-Lut"

"Jean-Luc…"

"Jun-Luc," "Jea-Luc"

"Oh boy," Jean-Luc lowers his dejected sight and looks forward again to continue "Jean-Luc…"

"Jean-Louis?" Mel shrugs her shoulders

"WHAT THE!…" Jean-Luc slams his head against the table with his two arms crossed, forming a pillow; the Labrador raises one hand to signal them while ordering, "You guys can take 30 minutes."

"Ok…" Fozzie says as he and his wife stand up and walk away

Jean-Luc, still with his face sunk in his arms mutters "Je jure que si je dois décoller avec un avion de chasse pour défendre une super arme contre huit avions de chasse de premier ordre... je suis foutu."

---

It's finally time.

The next 30 minutes could change their lives.

Bluey and Mackenzie finally arrived at the park after walking for five minutes. Unlike the movie theater, it didn't have enough light posts to illuminate the entire park, creating mostly dark spots among the many trees and bushes.

"Just know…" Mackenzie speaks while holding the bucket of popcorn by his left arm. "I'm throwing the bucket at anyone who dares assault us."

"Hahaha, yeah, sure, Dad can live another day without his popcorn," Bluey quips, causing both of them to laugh.

Despite the dangers of walking alone in a dark park at night, the teenagers have little to worry about, as they have other worries to attend to. In reality, the fact that it's so dark and lonely helps them create an atmosphere of personal space, not worry about what's out there, and focus on the dog next to them, a dog they desperately want to tell all of their secrets.

The couple walked until they found a light post softly and peacefully, Illuminating a patch of light into the concrete trail, a quiet place far from the lousy exterior of the park…a place just for the both of them.

"This…" Bluey thinks as she looks at the light circle, quickly thinking of a place to set free her feelings "...Looks like the place."

"This place looks so peaceful," Mackenzie thinks, "I think this is the perfect place."

As the couple approached the light, Bluey finally broke the silence with her heart pounding, "Mackenzie, Can you leave the bucket right there?"

"Sure," Mackenzie gladly obliged and put the bucket on the grass. Bluey grabbed him by his hands as he turned around and walked backward to guide Mackenzie under the light post.

"Can we talk?" Bluey softly says as they finally reach under the light, Illuminating both of them like the stars of the show, holding their hands like a couple about to get married

"Yeah…" Mackenzie answers softly, looking down at the love of his life

Bluey stayed silent, noticeably breathing, mustering her courage to finally say something. "Ever since I remember…we were together…all the time."

"As much time as possible," Mackenzie adds with lovely, half-closed eyes.

"Every second," Bluey continued, "And during that time…we spent so many great moments together."

"Like when we went to the creek for the first time?"

"Yeah," Bluey happily nods. "That's something I will never forget."

"Or the time we spent Christmas together with Lucky's family and Judo's mother when we were nine."

"Judo beating Lucky with a toy sword will never stop being funny.

"Or the time we finally got Rusty and Indy together."

"I didn't stop smiling for three days after they gave each other their first kiss under the rain."

"Or when we made that presentation about ideologies, and we made the whole class laugh."

"We did the impossible that day…we made Professor Martin laugh."

"Yeah," Mackenzie says before laughing lightly.

"The thing is…" Bluey continued, moving closer to Mackenzie, mentally telling herself to keep going. "...I love spending time with you."

"Me too…" Mackenzie says, still with his eyes on Bluey's, anxiously waiting for her to say what he thinks she is going to say

Bluey lowers her gaze, clashing It with the fur of his chest, and thinks, "Now or never, Bluey."

"I just want to say…" Bluey raises her face to look at Mackenzie in the eyes "...I love-

"!"

Bluey's face froze up,

Her eyes and eyebrows open entirely.

Her pupils shrink

Her smile was replaced with scared, wide lips, expressing total panic.

As she looks something she never expected

Jean-Luc

In front of her

"You love?…"

Says the blue labrador with a hopeful tone, leaning his face forward, waiting for Bluey to finish

"Ahhhh," Bluey dragged that expression out, completely baffled, confused and lost. She blinks and shakes her head with her eyes closed. When she is done, she opens them back up to see Mackenzie in the same position and with the same expression as Jean-Luc a second ago.

"I told you, You don't wanna do this."

The voice of her younger self sounds off again, mocking herself. Her body begins to tremble from the cold, and the remorse of conscience sets in, flooding her with sadness and guilt.

Why did she think of Jean-Luc when she was just about to confess to Mackenzie?

Actually, why think of Jean-Luc at all!?

He is just her friend, and this is her moment with Mackenzie!

Her heart belongs to Mackenzie!

Whatever that was, it completely stops Bluey and her wishes to declare her love for the Collie, making her a fool of herself. There is no way she is going to confess to Mackenzie In these conditions.

So, the best thing she can do right now is damage control

"I love you as my best friend," Bluey finally says, with a nervous smile as she tries her hardest to hide what happened in her head.

"Oh…" Mackenzie reacts. This wasn't the first time Bluey told him she loved him as a friend, but something about this time broke something inside of him, as if he was expecting her to say something different.

He guessed he was right yesterday.

Both of them caring for each other is just a friendship thing.

Despite him wishing it wasn't like that.

Looks like they are going to continue as friends…nothing more

"Yeah, I love you as my friend too," Mackenzie says, trying to sound as cool as possible about being friends with Bluey.

"Let's go." Bluey releases Macknezie's hand and walks towards the bucket of popcorn to pick it up. "I'm gonna text my father to pick us up."

"Yeah…" Mackenzie says as he grabs the bucket from Bluey, still trying to be a gentleman despite what they said to each other. "Let's go home "

And they both walk back in complete silence in the park's darkness. Feeling the cold on their bodies as they think of what just happened, feeling out of place as they walk off the park…Single and with unsung feelings

---

Jack: Blue Dove flew off without Kiwi

"WHAT!?"

"WHAT THE FUCK!"

Indy and Rusty scream out, exasperatedly putting their hands on their faces after seeing Jack's text message in the kelpie's dark, cold car parked outside the park near the movie theater.

Rusty wears a black beanie instead of the usual white cap, and Indy doesn't have her earring dreamcatchers or her bandana on; instead, her hair is picked up in a ponytail.

"Bluey chicken out on Mack?" Indy asks, shocked as she slowly lets her hands fall off her face

"Yeah…" Rusty answers, still with his hands on his face. "Bluey hasn't chickened out for ages."

Out of nowhere, the back doors open out, and three female teenagers get in: Lulu with a headset, Juniper with a laptop bag, and Dusty wearing the hat and apron from the movie theater.

"Please tell me they are together," Dusty demanded to know as she finished getting in the car.

"No…" Rusty takes off his hand to look at her sister. "Bluey chicken out on Mack."

"WHAT!?" Dusty screams

"NO WAY!" Juniper screams

"FUCKING CHICKEN" Lulu screams

"So you're telling me that I spend 3 hours of my life sneaking in and working the minimum wage in a movie theater as a complete minor just for them to fucking do nothing!?" says Dusty

"..." Rusty stayed quiet, still looking at her sister, before he muttered, "Yeah."

"Ugh." Dusty lays back in her seat, jaded, and covers half her face with the hat.

"And we were so close, SO CLOSE," Juniper says, putting her thumb and index close to each other.

"We almost caught Bluey and Mack making out with the supposed to be broken camera before the movie, but the fucking movie started with a thunder scaring off Bluey," Lulu says

"The only funny thing about all this is watching through the cameras the two employees Dusty fucked off to the back gossiping about her," Juniper tells.

"Or having her close down the kiosks and telling her through the secret earpiece to say that the camera is broken with half the tray open," Lulu tells

"Or the angry customers complaining about the locked doors on the screen room after Dusty locked it down to keep those two alone," Juniper tells

"Or Dusty throwing away the mango ice cream without anyone knowing," Lulu tells

"Or Dusty trying several times to make a single Ice cream shake," Juniper tells.

"You girls are not fucking helping over here," Dusty said, annoyed still with Her hat on her face.

"Dusty," Rusty calls her, "in spite of everything, you did an amazing job of fooling everyone inside the movie theater, including Bluey and Mack."

"Yeah, it was amazing watching you through the cameras in the control room," says Lulu as she puts an arm over Juniper to touch Dusty's shoulder to comfort her

"Thanks, guys," Dusty muttered as she put a hand on her best friend's hand and caressed it.

Rusty looks away from his sister to look at Indy. He pulls out his phone and says while typing, "We gotta help Jack get out."

"Ehhh," Indy sounds off. Pointing to the window behind Rusty, he follows what his girlfriend is trying to point at and looks at a bush right outside his car.

Rusty opens the door of his car, and the bush takes off the facemask to reveal Jack's face, which has green and dark green paint on it. He was wearing a ghillie suit the whole time, and with the door slightly open to communicate. Jack said, "That was not fun to watch."

Rusty turns his head towards Indy and says, "Can you move to the back seat to have one of the girls sit on your lap so that Jack can have a seat?"

"Sure," Indy says as she opens her door and gets out of the car. She quickly turns around and looks at Rusty to tell him, "You know this is a waste of time, right?"

…

"I said what I said." Indy closes the door and opens the backdoor to say cheerfully, "Wanna cuddle Dusty? I'm sure you need company after a hard day."

"Please," that's all Dusty managed to say as she exit the car so that Indy could get in the back seat, allowing her to sit on Indy's lap.

The kelpie doesn't respond to anything going on in his vehicle, from Jack getting on the copilot seat, Juniper and Lulu talking about what happened in the secret operation, to Indy hugging an exhausted and relaxed Dusty with her eyes closed from behind. He looks down at the car's dashboard with a turn-off demeanor, thinking of everything he and his friends have done for Bluey and Mackenzie and how they have failed to get them together.

Maybe Indy is right…This is a waste of time.

But he still has a job tonight.

With everyone in the car ready to go, Rusty turns on his cellphone and searches for the group chat 'Blue Dove x Kiwi.' a special group chat without Bluey and Mackenzie to talk about those two. He raises his cell phone and hits the voice message button to address everyone with a gloomy voice.

"Alcon, Alcon, Alcon. Blue Dove flew away from the Kiwi, I repeat. Blue Dove flew away from the Kiwi."

---

*Border-Collie's home*

Mackenzie closed the front door after walking in. After traveling back to his safe place in silence except for small conversations with Bluey, the Border Collie was totally ready to go back to his room and probably cry himself to sleep…But before that, he had to greet his parents and Jean-Luc… Who are sleeping?"

"Guys?" Mackenzie calls them after moving from the main door to the table of the kitchen that has lots of tea cups, rubber balls, and his parents, Mel, Fozzie, and his housemate Jean-Luc, sleeping with their heads on the table

"Forget it." Mackenzie thinks, rolling his eyes as he turns around to head to his room

…

…

…

"Jean…" Mel murmurs in her sleep

…

"Luc…" Fozzie murmurs in his sleep

…

"Hooray…" Jean-Luc murmurs in his sleep

---

*Heeler's house*

Bingo was still sitting in the kitchen, looking at her laptop with headphones on. She heard the sound of a bucket of popcorn on top of the counter. Bingo took off her headphones and shifted her eyes away to see Bluey with a tired, sad face. "Hi, Bluey. How did it go?" she asked.

"It was…good," Bluey said in a tired tone before walking towards her room.

After seeing her sister's depressing look, Bingo immediately grabs her cell phone to go to the 'Blue Dove x Kiwi' group chat to find Rusty's voice message. She puts the cell phone near her ear and reproduces the message in low-volume

"Alcon, Alcon, Alcon. Blue Dove flew away from the Kiwi, I repeat. Blue Dove flew away from the Kiwi."

"What?" Bingo reacts shocked. "It's Impossible. She didn't chicken out in a while. " She puts the phone away, and still with a shocked face, she whispers to herself, "This is bad…"

After leaving Bingo in the kitchen, Bluey finally reaches her room. She opens, gets in, and closes the door to lay her back on it to keep her issues away. Her flooded body with guilt and sadness is so heavy that she slides down slowly on the door until she is sitting in a fetal position.

"What's wrong with me?" Bluey thinks with open, traumatized eyes, trying to put together some sense of what is happening

"I love Mackenzie."

"I love Mackenzie."

"I love Mackenzie."

"I love you, Mackenzie Border-Collie."

"I love you, Mackenzie Border-Collie."

"I love you, Mackenzie Border-Collie."

"Why is that shit so hard to say."

"Why, I thought he was Jean-Luc."

"We are just friends."

"Friendssssss"

"This was supposed to be your night."

"And you ruined it."

"WHY THE FUCK I THOUGHT OF JEAN-LUC"

"You are not ready."

"You can't run away from it."

"You can't ignore what you are feeling."

…

…

…

"What am I feeling?"

Following what she thought in her younger voice, Bluey closed her eyes, took a deep breath…and started to think…

Ever since the camping trip eleven years ago, Jean-Luc has been an enigma for her. He showed up one day, played with her, planted a tree, and then left…

For the following eleven years, the mighty and beautiful tree grew up just like her. Despite living with her family and friends, she always cared for that tree every time she went to their camping area and every time she did that…She always remembers him.

But with every memory, pain always follows, wondering how different life would have been if Jean-Luc had been a Brisbane native and communicated in English.

The pain got so heavy that when Mackenzie and his family told everyone they would host an exchange student in her final year of high school…She couldn't avoid feeling anger.

An anger so overwhelming that she wasn't afraid to show it, grabbing every chance to show her displeasure to her friends and family toward the upcoming exchange student, telling everyone she would keep her distance because why bother about someone who was going to leave at the end of the school year?

But more than anger… She has to recognize it was trauma.

The trauma of reliving the pain she felt when Jean-Luc left the camping site, of the week she spent crying for him and the cruel world.

A trauma so big…she begged her mother not to throw away the drawing she did of Jean-Luc and her.

A trauma so big…She learned French weeks after the camping trip.

A trauma so big…She thought of leaving Brisbane to search for him.

A trauma so big…She is still friends with every single one of her classmates from Glasshouse.

A trauma so big…she managed to keep Bingo and all of her friends together after graduating from Glasshouse.

A trauma so big… She still wants to be connected to her friends after graduating.

A trauma so big…that SHE created the Glasshouse club

And eleven years afterward…Jean-Luc shows up in the same spot.

Even if she tries her hardest, she can't explain how happy she felt when her eyes landed on him on the other side of the river trail. It was a moment she had been dreaming about since she had memory.

She absolutely loved spending time with him on the camping site.

She absolutely loved drinking her tea and bickering with him back in Avril's

She absolutely loved talking to him in Captain Burke Park.

She absolutely loved playing with him at the party Last night.

And she absolutely loved singing with him.

Her heart always skips a beat when she sees Jean-Luc. She loves being next to him, listening to him with his French-Canadian accent, and touching his fur, which reminded her that, Indeed, Jean-Luc is back.

She was so focused on spending time with him…that she inadvertently got angry at Coco, Chloe, and Winnie at the party.

Coco for hugging him after meeting him.

Chloe because she insulted Jean-Luc first and talked to him afterward.

And Winnie because she looked at him from his feet to his head and asked if Jean-Luc is single during the charades game

All three girls cause her to feel the itchiness in her body, an itchiness to intervene and stop whatever they were doing to Jean-Luc.

Now that she thinks of it…she never experienced that itchiness in her life…at least with that force.

She indeed felt it before…When Chloe got better gifts than her on her eighth birthday

She remembers she mentioned her Itchiness to her mother, and she knew exactly what it was

It was jealousy

She

Was jealous of her friends

For spending time with Jean-Luc

With that discovery, she had to acknowledge it sooner or later.

She wants Jean-Luc for herself.

Only for herself

Bluey's body trembles with anxiety and the cold of her room, facing for the first time a possibility she had never thought of before

If she puts together everything she thought about Jean-Luc, for the moment she planted that tree to the welcoming party the day before.

All roads led to the same conclusion.

Bluey's body stops shaking, and she finally raises her head and opens her eyes…to face her new reality.

She is in love with Jean-Luc.

Notes:

Thats all for the second act "The glasshouse club", we finally meet everyone and Bluey finally got her alone time with Jean-Luc and Mackenzie. however there are more characters to meet when we finally go to high school (hooray…) Next act is something I can tease as…"What makes Jean-Luc tick"

References…Yes, I really enjoyed writing this one.

"From only his mother knows him": I'm pretty sure it is a Spanish saying. It means nobody knows him, or he is irrelevant.

Green board: It's a family guy reference. I don't know the episode, but the dog said something like, "And it caused this green board to show up in the living room…we don't have a green board."

"But I said it perfectly three days ago." I accidentally got Mel saying Jean-Luc's name perfectly in chapter 10..oops

The whole movie theater is a reference to Valkyria Chronicles: "Gallia" is the name of the main fictional country, "screen number 7" is a reference to Squad 7 of the first game. Red and light blue are the national colors of Gallia, and Raz and Kai are characters from VC4.

"Jean-Louis" and whatever Jean-Luc said: YOU REALLY THINK I COULD GO ON FOR MORE THAN FIVE CHAPTERS WITHOUT AN ACE COMBAT REFERENCE!? Jean-Louis is the name of one of the enemy pilots in the final mission of Ace Combat 4. It's probably the most forced reference schedule in this story, LOL.

"Alcon Alcon Alcon" is the military acronym for "all concern" in the U.S military.

Leave kudos and reviews if you like what you are reading.

And if you are reading this…go to the next chapter; we need to have a conversation.

Until next time

Chapter 15: New year, Different plan

Notes:

WE ARE BACK BABY

Dialogs in {} are spoken through a megaphone…read to find out.

Canada, Quebec City*

Tyler Allart High School*

1 year ago*

It was another day at the end of the year's winter. The elements didn't forgive the city, covering it in a thick, cold blanket of snow. But after the snowstorm ended, the town was in luck… for a week… at least until the next big snowstorm came in as forecasted.

It's been two days since the storm ended. The city's inhabitants did their duty and cleared the streets of snow, ice, and black ice. The warm sun played its part by melting the snow and ice off the buildings… including Jean-Luc's School in downtown Quebec City.

After being transported to school in a classic yellow school bus, Jean-Luc, with his red backpack, dark blue shoes to protect his feet from the snow and ice, and a black scarf around his neck, stands in front of the massive and compact three-story school entrance.

14-year-old Jean-Luc inhales and lets out the hot air that freezes into white smoke. Still tired after waking up earlier, he admires another school day ahead of him.

"(Same shit…)" Louis, the Siberian husky, stands next to Jean-Luc with only his backpack, thankful for being a breed with strong fur for winters.

"(Different day…)" Theodore' Thacher,' a black and brown Chihuahua, stands next to Jean-Luc with his backpack and a massive jacket covering him, cursing himself for being a breed with short fur for warm climates.

"(Hey…)" Jean-Luc steps forward and turns around to talk to his two best friends. "(...At least this is a short day. We need to survive Math, survive Ms. Camille, recess, and then we have our school assembly, where I'm probably gonna fall asleep, survive Mr. Beau, and then we are free.)

"(And then we are free to beat the shit out of Ocon and his friends at the 'Round table')," Louis says, pointing at Jean-Luc.

"(And then we are free to beat the shit out of Ocon)," Jean-Luc repeats, tilting his head from side to side. "(Yeah, that's the plan.)"

"(Can't wait to play against those assholes)," Thatcher says angrily. "(They deserve an elbow to the face for calling me Theodore the other day.)"

"(Give your balls a tug, taco eater)," Louis says wittily.

"(I don't even eat tacos, you dumb rug)," Thatcher claps back.

"(I agree with Craigpaw's version of a bear)," Jean-Luc gets in the exchange. "(You don't need to death-threat anyone who pronounces your name wrong.)"

"(We already talked about this,My name is Thatcher, nothing else)," Thatcher says before walking, passing by Jean-Luc.

With Thatcher still walking toward the interior, Jean-Luc and Louis finally follow him into the school, although not with much enthusiasm.

"(If an enforcer doesn't murder him)," Louis jokes with Jean-Luc as they walk together. "(I will.)"

"Uh huh," Jean-Luc answers, nodding as the three best friends enter the school.

---

Third period*

After enduring math, physics, and recess, Jean-Luc and his friends finally attended the school presentation in the auditorium. This large, semi-dark room formed a crescent moon around the stage where theater plays were performed. For the presentation, a white screen was lowered to project the images.

After eating his lunch, Jean-Luc and his friends finally enter the auditorium, with the rest of the students wearing jackets and scarves. They sit on the left side but a few rows back in the sitting area, allowing the three best friends to be hidden enough to sleep through the whole thing.

"(Alright, cute boys)," Louis says, taking off his backpack after sitting in the middle of Jean-Luc and Thatcher. "(I'm gonna make guard while you bums sleep.)"

"(Don't call me cute)," tiredly says Jean-Luc as he puts his backpack in his lap to use as a pillow.

"(Same over here, give your balls a tug, you fucking loser)," Thatcher also tiredly quips, doing the same as Jean-Luc, but leans toward Louis to take advantage of his fur as a pillow.

"(You bastards are gonna thank me later)," says Louis, looking forward at the stage.

After setting up his backpack/pillow in his lap, Jean-Luc follows Thatcher's example and leans on Louis, letting his fur give him the comfort he needs to sleep. "(Louis, don't blame me that your fur is soft)," Jean-Luc thinks before finally closing his eyes.

After a few minutes of listening to his classmates arrange themselves and sit down, Jean-Luc sees through his closed eyes how the lights dim down, and the voice of one of the female teachers sounds in the speaker. "(Good morning, Guardians!)"

"(Good morning!)" the rest of the students shout back.

"(As some of you may know, Canada proudly collaborates with the international community to promote education, diversity, and inclusion with the rest of the world, and this school, Tyler Allart, also proudly collaborates with Canada's Minister of Education to send Canadian students to all parts of the world… And today's guest works with Quebec's program of exchange students, sending and receiving students from all around the world.)"

"(Exchange Student Program…)," Jean-Luc thinks, making a confused face while slowly opening his eyes.

"(Now…)" The teacher on stage keeps talking through the microphone "(...One round of applause for today's guest… Alice Quimmit!)"

"!" Jean-Luc's eyes opened entirely, jumping out of his seat and eliminating every ounce of tiredness he had. "Alice?!"

Jean-Luc sees from his seat how the female terrier teacher turns towards her left side of the stage to see a now older… Alice, the Canadian Eskimo, happily comes from backstage towards the center under the applause of the students. She grabs the microphone and doesn't waste time speaking through it.

"(GOOD MORNING, GUARDIANS!)"

"(Good morning!)" The students shout back, but Jean-Luc stays shocked with his mouth dropped.

"Hey," Louis friendly punches Jean-Luc's shoulder to make him react and look at him. "(Is that your friend from primary school?)"

"(Yeah…)" Jean-Luc barely responds because of the shock before slowly turning his head forward to see Alice.

After the applause dies down, Alice takes her microphone near her mouth. Under the projection of a single spotlight, she starts speaking. "(Well, glad to see everyone is awake…)" Her joke causes a few laughs in her audience. "(...As Ms. Colette said, I'm Alice Quimmit, one of the main coordinators here in Quebec City, and this school for over…)" Alice funnily starts counting on her fingers. "(Seven years already. And today I'm gonna talk to you about what is an exchange student, why they exist, and why YOU should)." Alice points at her crowd. "(be one)"

"(Now…)" Alice continues talking as she slowly turns around. "(...To understand better what an exchange student is, let's go over a few points about my trip to-)." Alice stops talking when she notices there is nothing on the white screen. She snaps her head to her right side of the stage and says through the microphone, "Juneau?…"

"Juneau!?" Thatcher jumps up, too, with wide-open eyes and heavy breathing.

"I'M TRYING OVER HERE!" A female voice that the trio of best friends recognizes as Juneau sounds off behind the scenes, but Jean-Luc is the only dog who understands her.

"(Sister, I need this today)" Alice taps her foot while the students laugh at the technical difficulty.

After an agonizing minute of waiting, the projector turns on, displaying the first slide of her presentation.

"HOORAY!" The whole auditorium celebrates.

"Where the heck was I?" Alice whispers into the microphone in English before extending her arm towards the projection and speaking normally in French. "(So first of all, let's talk about my trip to Australia as an exchange student…)"

"Wow…" Thatcher leans towards Louis and Jean-Luc; the latter does the same to hear the chihuahua whisper, "(Been a while since the last time we heard about them)."

"(Yeah…)" Louis whispers too. "(I heard Juneau got fired because she didn't do her job.)"

"(Yeah…)" Jean-Luc whispers too. "(Heard the same thing… It saddened me I couldn't say goodbye to Alice… Should we come down and say hi to them?)"

"(I don't know, brother)" Louis whispers again. "(I don't think they remember us.)"

"(Well…)" Jean-Luc leans back into the seat before whispering for the final time. "(Alice will remember me.)"

After ignoring Louis and Thatcher's rolling eyes, Jean-Luc focuses on the one dog who supported him in his journey to learn another language, talking with total confidence on the stage.

In the two years she spent with Alice in primary school, she did her best to teach him everything she knew about speaking English, from songs, movies, books, TV shows, and conversations to practice.

When Jean-Luc returned for his third year of primary school, his heart sank when he heard that Juneau would not return to teach; therefore, Alice would not return.

Jean-Luc spent the week sad, even during the joyful recess time. Over time, he accepted that he would not see her again. With the support of his family, especially his father, Jean-Luc kept learning English.

Even without Alice's presence, Jean-Luc still had that dream of becoming an exchange student and returning to Brisbane. But over the years, the spark of that dream died down the more he built his life with his friends and family in Quebec. But what's left of his spark is growing every second with the words from Alice that made him feel like a 6-year-old kid again.

After talking for over 45 minutes, Alice is on the final stretch of her presentation.

"(That's all for today. If anyone is interested or has any questions, I will be at a table in the cafeteria with other members of the program, and… yeah… have a good day.)"

The second Alice finishes talking, the lights in the auditorium light up, making all students get up and leave the semi-dark room through the small corridors between the sections. Instead of leaving, Jean-Luc goes the opposite way, against the flow of the students toward the stage. While hearing his two best friends complain behind him, Jean-Luc finally hops onstage. He sees Alice and Juneau a few steps ahead of him, talking to each other at the backstage entrance on the stage's left side.

"(Okay… Make Alice proud)" thought Jean-Luc with determination, quickly thinking of something to reintroduce himself to his old friend.

…

Jean-Luc inhales…and says in English,

"One Canuck once told me to never change, while a Yankee looked at herself in the mirror to see more wrinkles in her face."

"!" Both Eskimo ears shoot up, and they stop talking. The sisters look curiously at the voice next to a Husky and a Chihuahua.

Juneau is the first to half-close her eyes in an attempt to recognize the teenager. "(...Wait a seco-)"

"JEAN-LUC!" Alice exclaims with wide-open eyes.

"ALICE!" Jean-Luc exclaims, too, getting closer to her with slightly open arms until he and Alice finally hug each other in the middle.

"(Hi, Ms. Juneau)" shyly greets Louis with one waving hand.

"My dear mother… (BOYS!)" Juneau finally recognizes her old students and also gets close to hug Louis and Thatcher.

After hugging tightly for a few seconds, Alice and Jean-Luc finally separate and step back, looking each other up and down to acknowledge how much they have changed until Alice is the first to speak English, "You've grown."

"Back at ya," Jean-Luc answers with a smile.

After Juneau finishes hugging Louis and Thatcher, she steps back and happily remarks in French, "(I honestly thought your guys would come to Tyler Allart due to their hockey program, but you?)." Juneau extends both arms towards Jean-Luc, getting close to hug him. "(I never expected to see you here.)"

"(Well…)," Jean-Luc said before being hugged briefly by Juneau. When she stepped back again, he continued, "(...Can't keep me away from my buddies)"

"(That's cute but…)" Juneau leans closer to Jean-Luc and gently taps the top of his head. "(That's really cruel of you to say I'm old)"

"(Because you are old)," Alice, Louis, and Thatcher say simultaneously.

"(Whatever)" Juneau rolls her eyes, making all five dogs laugh.

After Louis laughed, he said to Jean-Luc, "(Buddy, I'm going back to my class)"

"(Same here)" Thatcher briefed.

"(Alice, I gotta prepare the laptop for the next presentation)" Juneau said to her sister.

"(Alright)," Jean-Luc and Alice said simultaneously, making the three dogs walk away from the conversation to focus on their things.

With the surrounding area to themselves, Jean-Luc and Alice kept looking at each other in peace, still soaking in the fact that they finally saw each other after eight years apart.

"Good…Work on your presentation," Jean-Luc humbly breaks the silence in English.

"Thanks…Your English really improved," Alice replied in the same tone.

"Thanks…You definitely grew up since the presentation when we first met."

"Yeah…" Alice crossed her right arm over her belly to hold her other arm and looked away from Jean-Luc, definitely overcome by her mousy side. She kept looking away from Jean-Luc until she finally dared to look him in the eye and said, "Look, I'm really sorry I couldn't say goodbye to-"

"It's okay…" Jean-Luc interrupted her. "I know how you feel."

"Really?"

"Yeah…Leaving without saying goodbye is part of life," Jean-Luc says, using his old memory of his trip to Brisbane and how he had to say goodbye to Bluey despite her not understanding him.

"Wow…" Alice opened her eyes, amazed. "Are you sure you are not 14 or 15?"

"14."

"And yet you are behaving a lot more mature than a lot of the kids here."

"It ain't my first time hearing that."

"Definitely not the last."

"Hahaha." Jean-Luc looked away and laughed under his breath before looking at Alice again.

"I'm proud of you, Jean-Luc…"

"Well…as your unofficial student… I'm proud of you, Alice."

"For what?" Alice said, bemused and with a witty tone.

"For…Not being the lost, scary little Eskimo anymore."

Alice closed her eyes shut, but Jean-Luc still noticed a small tear break loose from her eye and thought to himself, "(Just let her soak it up; looks like she needed to hear that.)"

When Alice opened her eyes again, she finally asked, "Well…Uhhhh…Are you still interested in becoming an exchange student?"

Slowly but surely, a smile started forming on Jean-Luc's face.

Nine years have passed since the trip to Brisbane, where he met Bluey.

Nine years have passed since he started learning English.

For nine years, he has been studying to become the top-notch student to qualify for the program.

And on the verge of becoming 15 years old in weeks, Jean-Luc can finally take the steps to become an exchange student.

"(I need to do this, I need to reconnect with Bluey…She will never do the things she…)"

"Yeah… I'm ready."

---

Border-Collies home*

Jean-Luc's room*

Present day*

Dinggggggg*

…

Dinggggggg*

…

Dingggggg*

…

…

"(Hello?)

"Louis?"

"Jean-Luc?...(Buddy, what the…What are you doing? Isn't this…early or late as hell for you?)"

"(Early…)" Jean-Luc opens his tired eyes. He is sitting on the chair in front of the table to do homework, and only his lamp, with its yellow hue, is illuminating the room softly.

It's been a week and three days since his arrival in Brisbane as an ambassador of Canadian values and a token of friendship between the two commonwealth countries. Despite barely being a week into his stay, many things happened.

He finally met the Border-Collie family after three months of video chatting with them; he finally reunited with Bluey in the same forest they met, got confronted by his housemate because of a misunderstanding, went up and down, west and east of the city with Mackenzie and Bluey. Bluey set up a party to celebrate his arrival and to get all of her friends to meet him (Even Jean-Luc had to admit he was still struggling to remember thirty names), and now it was finally time for the main reason he was there…to study in an Australian school.

"(Ok, early…)" Louis says over the phone call "(Early what?)"

"Son of a bitch," Jean-Luc mutters in English as he leans back and lets the hand with his cellphone drop. He recomposes himself, takes a good look at his cell phone, and takes it back to his ear to say, "(3 a.m.)"

"(Why in the heck are you calling me at 3 a.m.? Aren't you supposed to sleep for your first day?)"

"(I know… I'm just…)" Jean-Luc takes his free hand to his left eye to rub it "(... I'm so fucking nervous, man.)"

"(Am I your psychologist?)"

"(You are my captain, wake the fuck up.)" An annoyed, tired Jean-Luc takes his free palm out of his eye.

"(Oh I see now…Give me a second... I'm having lunch with my family here.)"

"(Wow, I'm proud of you, you fucking loser.)"

"(Shut up.)" Louis says before the sound of something muffles his phone, followed by a shout. "(Mom! I'm going to be in my room real quick, Jean-Luc needs a motivational speech.)"

…

…

…

"(Okay, I'm here)" Louis says after a few seconds of silence. "(Mom said hi, by the way.)"

"(Cool, tell her I said hi.)"

"(Ok… Let's see… Let me come up with something.)"

"(I'm not going anywhere…)"

"Ummmmmm…(I got nothing right now… It's hard to think with the stomach full)."

Jean-Luc rolled his eyes (Wow…Top notch friend right here)."

"(Shut up, you twat…tell me, how is it going with the Border-Collies?")

"(Awesome. The mother, Mel, she loves me)"

"Uyyyyyyy"

"(Shut up, i'm not into mothers)"

"Hahahaha…(What about the kid that need his ball tugged, Mack)"

"(We are doing good, we haven't had any discussions, so that's something…He also went on a date with Bluey last week but she told him she loves him as a friend, so right now he is not that happy)"

"Ohhhhhh…"

Jean-Luc raised one eyebrow. He recognized that 'oh' from Louis anywhere… it's the 'oh' of 'we are going to talk about girls' "(What?)."

"(Buddy…can't you see this?)" Louis says over the call

"(No?)"

"(Give your balls a tug)" Louis jokes "(This is your chance)"

"(Chance of what?)"

"(Of dating Bluey)"

"Ugh," Jean-Luc frowns and rolls his eyes up, annoyed…Of course, Louis would get there if he mentioned Bluey "(I already told you a hundred times, I don't like Bluey)."

"(Cmon!...Are you that dumb Jean-Luc?...Are you aware of what you are doing?)"

"(What are you talking about?)"

"(Buddy…Hold on to something…You dont go over the Pacific for a girl in Australia, hug her in the forest, have an argument with her in a coffee shop and act like nothing happened, spend a wonderful time with her in the park, open up to her about Lanny, have a entire fucking party oquestrated by her in your name, sing an arguably romantic song with her in front of everybody plus Mack and say afterwards that you dont have feeling for her)"

"(Well…I still dont have feeling for her)"

"(You are lying…You are blind)"

"(How so?)"

"(We both know not a single fucking girl in this planet would do everything Bluey has done…Unless she is in love with you)"

She is in love with you.

Jean-Luc felt his heart do a flip, his feet feel weak, his fur stutter in the cold, and his tail started to wag

It feels…Good…to think of the possibility she might like him. Jean-Luc already knows he is attractive enough to the girls back in Quebec…But Bluey…It feels special

"(No…I don't like her…I didn't travel all the way from Canada to date her like a creepy stalker)." Jean-Luc shakes his head to stop thinking about Bluey and focus on the call.

"(Buddy…)" Louis spoke again after Jean-Luc said nothing back. "(If any other guys would have been in your position, they would already ask Bluey to be something more and walk into the first day of school like a power couple…Mack failed, So she is open for somebody else)."

"..." Jean-Luc doesn't say anything; he rolls his eyes everywhere to figure out an answer, But Louis beats him first.

"(You sure this is something you wanna let pass? You sure this isn't something you are not going to regret later?)"

"..."

"(As your best friend and teammate…I would say it is worth to ask her)"

Jean-Luc finally sighs and leans back on his chair. After thinking and analyzing everything Louis told him, he moves his phone to his ear and slowly says, "(I didn't cross the Pacific to be a creep and try to date my childhood friend like a desperate motherfucker…I came here to reconnect with her and to study…nothing more, nothing less)."

"(Oh well…)" Louis speak as he has giving up "(I thought you needed to hear that…Hey, im inspire enough, i'm ready for my speech)"

"(Alright…)" Jean-Luc recomposed himself on the chair with the feeling of relief in his veins that Louis stopped talking about Bluey and said to him with a background tone of high morale, "(I'm ready, let's hear it)."

"(Ok…Jean-Luc, you ready?)" Louis says inspired

"(Ready to go, Captain)"

"(Good, because you are going)"

Because of the early hours and the possibility of the Border-Collie family still sleeping, Jean-Luc covers his mouth with his arm and shouts, "YAA-HOO!"

---

6am*

"(I know you have been waiting for this)"

Jean-Luc emerges from his cool room just in time for Mackenzie to open his door and stand under the door frame with his tired face.

"(For a long time)"

Jean-Luc stands in front of the bathroom mirror. He opens the cabinet, grabs his comb, and starts brushing it through his fur.

"(It's time to raise your head)"

Jean-Luc finished putting toothpaste on his toothbrush and started scrubbing his teeth.

"(Look at destiny straight in their eyes and shout)"

Jean-Luc and Mackenzie make their way down the stairs to find Mel and Fozzie making breakfast and the boys' lunch.

"(I'm not scared…i'm ready for you)"

Mel puts the plates with breakfast, eggs, and pancakes in front of Jean-Luc and Makcnezie, and the boys grab their utensils to start eating.

"(Because this is what life is about)"

After Breakfast, Jean-Luc returned to his room to put his school supplies: books, smaller books for personal notes, pencils, and highlighters into his red backpack.

"(Or you either get sweep by the merciless waves of fate)"

Jean-Luc and Mackenzie make their way downstairs again with their backpacks on; they find Mel with a small bag and Fozzie with a suit in the foyer, ready to go to work.

"(Or you fucking locked in and size the moment)"

Jean-Luc and the Border Collies finally step out of the house under the light blue dawn sky on a special day for many students. Fozzie hits the button on his car controller to allow Jean-Luc, Mackenzie, and Mel to hop on.

"(Because not a lot of people get these chances often)"

Fozzie finally puts the orange truck in reverse to get out of the driveway and drives towards the local High School. Jean-Luc looks out of the window to the families of the neighborhood also leaving their houses to start the day,

"(This is your time…)"

The orange truck stops behind a line of cars, making a line to enter the school grounds and leave the students in the drop-off area. Jean-Luc's heart starts pumping with force when he sees out his window at his now classmates who have decided to walk towards the school.

"(This is your stage)"

Jean-Luc leans toward his backpack, opens it, pulls out the cap with the Canadian flag on its side, which he wore when he landed in Brisbane, and proudly puts it on.

"(At the end of the day, I want you to look back and think for yourself)"

After ten minutes of waiting, Mel looks back at her boys and gives the order to prepare to hop out of the truck.

"(I don't regret anything)"

The orange truck finally reaches the drop-off section after 13 minutes in line. Mel and Fozzie turn their heads back to say goodbye and have fun to the boys.

"(Now show them what the name Jean-Luc Picard Labrador means to you and why you belong where you at)"

Jean-Luc and Mackenzie finally hop out of the truck and walk towards the entrance.

"(Set the fucking tone!)"

As Jean-Luc and Mackenzie kept walking with faces of full commitment, they were joined by the determined faces of Rusty, Indy, Jack, and Chloe on Makcneize's side and Bluey, Bingo, Lila, Dougie, and Winnie on Jean-Luc's side.

"(Mom did not raise a coward!)"

And all together, as a team…they enter Southern Stars High School.

"(SHE RAISED A GUARDIAN!)"

---

Southern Stars High School*

You're shining like a star

I wanna be where you are, are

Oh no, oh no

Let's take over this club

You're shining bright in the dark, dark

You light up the night

Jean-Luc walks through one of the multiple doors with his Australian friends to see a colorful party of all sizes, shapes, and races in the large main room. There were students walking side to side with their backpacks, many duos, trios, and groups of friends chatting with each other, and a handful of new students looking around, amazed at the size of the school. Some students were surprised to see their friends again after two months of summer, and some students discreetly danced to the teen pop song playing on the speakers.

You wanna wild out, then wild out

All eyes on you

It's going down, down, right now

You can't lose

You wanna wild out, then wild out

That's what you do

Talk of the town now

And you already know

That you're a star, (ah ah ah), a superstar

That you're a star, (ah ah ah), a superstar

That you're a star, (ah ah ah), a superstar

That you're a star, (ah ah)

And you already know…

"Wow…" Jean-Luc drops his mouth, and his tail starts to move without him noticing looking at the scene resembling an American high school movie

Bingo looks at his sister beside her and Mackenzie…Who had empty looks and dead faces, completely ignoring Jean-Luc in the middle. Bingo sighs and sneaks behind Bluey to stand next to Jean-Luc and say," Welcome to Southern Stars…honestly, it was going to be Bluey who welcomed you, but…" Bingo looks sarcastically at his sister, who still has the same face."...Bluey isn't being Bluey Today…

Rusty steps forward and says to his friends, "Let's go to our table… some of them should have arrived by now.

"Good idea," Lila says, making Bingo, Dougie, Winnie, Rusty, Indy, Jack, and Chloe walk with Jean-Luc following them toward the cafeteria.

…

…

…

Bingo stands in front of Mackenzie and Bluey, who look lifeless, and snaps her fingers, finally making the Heeler and Border Collie shake their heads. "LET'S GO!"

"Oh yeah, "Bluey and Mackenzie say simultaneously with scared faces. "We are going."

Bluey and Mackenzie start walking to catch up with their friends, leaving behind Bingo, who sighs and frowns at them.

Since Bluey and Mackenzie had that date at the movies, Bingo noticed that Bluey behaved depressedly. She was not the same happy girl who helped around the house or loved spending time with her friends; instead, she would rather be in her room all day.

Bingo has already experienced this behavior from Bluey. Bluey acts like this after she cowers in her attempts to confess her feelings for Mackenzie or after Mackenzie tells her he sees her as a friend. But under normal circumstances, Bluey would have already talked to Bingo about what happened. she would encourage her that there is still a chance with Mackenzie, and her mood would start to improve.

The weird thing for Bingo about all this is that Bluey didn't tell her a single detail about what happened on the date, and everything she knows about the date, including that Bluey was the one who chickened out in front of Mackenzie, was thanks to Rusty and his squad. Bingo was already used to keeping the secret that the two best friends liked each other, but it was painful for her to pretend in front of her sister that she didn't know anything. She tried to talk to Bluey about the date, but she always deflected the question.

For the three days before school started, Bingo talked to the group's guys every time they interacted with Mackenzie, and they all reported the same thing…Mackenzie is depressed…. typical behavior whenever he cowers, or Bluey tells him she loves him as a friend.

This situation is typical for Bingo. Bluey and Mackenzie go on a date, one gets cold feet, and both are sad for a few days before everything returns to normal. But seeing them so sad after three days after their date is weird.

Bingo knows something happened on that date.

Something Rusty and his squad didn't notice

And she's going to find out sooner or later.

"Hey, Bingo…"

---

Cafeteria*

Jean-Luc and his friends arrived at the cafeteria, a large room with an immense amount of round tables, three long bars to serve food, and a transparent plexiglass wall overlooking the courtyard with fields and a soccer and basketball court.

A large number of students also chat at the tables or eat breakfast with food from the bar. Even when his friends continued to go further into the cafeteria, Jean-Luc stood still to contemplate the place. Bluey and Mackenzie were quick to reach and stand next to Jean-Luc, but the two did not dare to say anything.

"Guys!" Winnie shouts with a waving hand up from a couple of tables put together near the wall with the rest of the Club.

The three teens look over at Winnie and start walking towards the group. Everyone was there…except for Bingo, Lucky, Judo, and Chucky

In the days leading up to the first day, Mackenzie told him about the club's designated spot where they meet at school: two circular tables close together by the wall and away from the food bars. Bluey, Mackenzie, and their friends sat there so many times over the years that the rest of the school understood that that little piece of the cafeteria belonged to the former Glasshouse students.

Coco, sitting with her back to the three teens, turns around, and upon seeing Jean-Luc, she yells, "Hey, Jean-Luc!" before getting up from her seat and walking over to hug Jean-Luc.

"Hey Coco…" Jean-Luc hugs her awkwardly, still remembering the long hug they gave each other at the party

"Hmph!"

Jean-Luc and Coco widen their eyes, part ways, and turn their heads toward the sound that comes from Bluey. The Heeler has a death glare, her eyebrows furrowed, and her lip open enough to see a dog tooth…sending a clear message to the poodle.

"Okay…" Coco steps away with a blushing face with her eyes wide open and returns to her place at the table

"(What was that?)" Jean-Luc wonders in his mind as he approaches the table; he was no stranger to Bluey's aggressiveness due to the encounter at the park in the center of the city, but showing that side to her own friend? That was not what he expected.

"Okay!" Felix shouts after standing up, catching everyone's attention. "Since we're all here…except for a few… I'd like to officially designate a nickname for Jean-Luc since he will spend much time with us."

"(What?)" Jean-Luc reacts, perplexed, as the club dives into a pandemonium of voices going from side to side

.

"I…" Felix shouts again, silencing everyone. "propose the nickname 'the Purple Man.'"

"(Of course not)," Jean-Luc whispers in French with disgust.

"What?"

"Don't invent."

"Get out of 2016, you idiot."

The club argues again, all under the gaze of Jean-Luc, who doesn't know what is going on, Bluey, who looks like she wants to rip someone's head off, and Mackenzie, who is still depressed.

"(Is it time to go in?)" Jean-Luc thinks "(Yes, I think it's time)"

With his fist closed, Jean-Luc hits the table's plywood, earning everyone's silence, and exclaims, "Before you guys give me a nickname, why do I have to have one?

"It's a funny thing between us," Chloe explains. "Like a sign of affection."

"Or insulting someone without insulting someone," Sadie adds.

"Like, for example…" Buddy says, looking at everyone, trying to use someone as an example until his eyes land on the Border-Collie "...Mackenzie, his nickname is 'Eighties' because his fur only has black and white…like an old movie

"Or Winnie," Harley speaks, "'Overworked Barista' because she loves working at the coffee shop."

"Or the Terriers," Winton speaks, " 'Cheap Legionnaires' because they love acting like legionnaires without shame.

"Or Bingo," Lila said," 'Summer Sun' because she is a joy to be around, but sometimes she can be too much if someone spends too much time with her."

"Chloe 'Lost Sister 101'"

"Coco 'The Corner Market Diva'"

"Dougie 'Mama's Boy'"

"Rusty 'Scary Red Ball'"

"Honey 'Conductor tail still'"

"Harley 'Dojo janitor'"

"Okay, I understand, "Jean-Luc says, his eyes closed from the information he has received. He opens them again to ask, "If everyone has a nickname…" Jean-Luc slowly turns his head towards Bluey. "What is Bluey's nickname?"

"Um…

RINGGGGGGGG*

"All students to the auditorium, all students to the auditorium"

The bell and a female voice coming out of the speaker interrupted Bluey, who had red cheeks and was hugging herself, showing how uncomfortable she was

"Huh?" Honey reacts, confused, looking up. "First period in the auditorium?

"Hey… I'm not complaining," Banjo says

"If we're sent to the auditorium for our first period of the year, then Tommy has something for us," Rusty says as he stands up and picks up his backpack.

"Okay… Let's hear what crazy Tommy has to say," Pom Pom says as she stands up as well.

Following the rest of the students, Bluey and her friends walk towards the auditorium. As Jean-Luc walks behind the club, he feels a hand on his shoulder and turns his head to see Mackenzie say, "A word of advice, Bluey doesn't really like her nickname."

"Really? Is it that bad? "Jean-Luc speaks, still walking.

"No, it's not that bad. In fact, it's cute, but she doesn't like it that much.

"Oh…what is it?

Mackenzie shakes his head. "I don't think Bluey would like the idea of someone else saying her nickname… If it's any clue, it was Bingo who gave her the nickname."

"Huh… Okay, "Jean-Luc interjects, looking ahead to continue walking with his friends and classmates.

---

Auditorium*

Jean-Luc, his friends, and his classmates arrive at the auditorium, a large room very similar to Tyler Allart's in Canada; Jean-Luc follows Bluey, the friend with whom he has the most confidence, trying to find a seat with Mackenzie behind him.

While Jean-Luc is part of the river of students walking in baby steps between the sections, he takes the liberty of looking around and noticing teachers with their backs to the wall, watching the students, happy, smiling, and laughing with other teachers with relentless fur and high morale, it is clear that it is also an important day for the teachers.

He kept looking around until he found Alice laughing with one of the teachers near the stage with their blue helmets on to protect their eardrums. Jean-Luc wanted to shout to her to say hello, but she was too far away from where he is

Bluey, Jean-Luc, and Mackenzie enter a line of chairs in the middle of the auditorium and sit in the middle seats, which have the perfect stage view. After sitting down, Bluey looks at Lila, who is next to her, and asks, "Where is Bingo?"

"I don't know," Lila says, taking out her phone and searching for something. "But he sent me a text message saying to record the assembly."

"Really?" Bluey curiously takes out her phone as well and looks at it."She texted me, too: 'Make sure to record the assembly. Mum would love to see this.'"

Lila and Bluey look at each other, confused out of the corner of their eyes, before getting their phones ready.

"So…" Jean-Luc asks, taking off his cap and looking around with Mackenzie at his side. "Is it normal for you guys to start the year with an assembly?"

"No," Mackenzie shakes his head. "If I had to guess, I think this is for the school's tenth anniversary."

"Ah."

Jean-Luc looks around in amazement as the students still walk around to find a seat. The number of students gathered in the auditorium reminds him of the assemblies he attended at his school in Canada. So, he estimates that Southern Stars must have around 2000 students.

After 10 minutes of waiting for everyone to be gathered, the lights in the seating sections dim, leaving the lights on above the stage, making it clear that the assembly was about to begin.

From the right side, Principal Thompson "Tommy" Chinook emerges. In a suit and with a microphone in his hand, the yellow-furred Chinook walks to the center and yells, "Good morning, Stars!"

"Good morning!" Everyone responds with excitement.

"Well…" Tommy says through the microphone, "Finally...There is no need to repeat it; you're all awake."

"Hahaha! "The whole auditorium laughs; even Jean-Luc follows the joke and laughs too.

"Okay." After the laughter, Tommy speaks again, sauntering around the stage. "First of all, welcome back to Southern Stars, and also a warm hug to all the new students who will start their first year here."

"WOOOOOOOOOOOW!" Many students shout and celebrate; from where Jean-Luc is, he hears Lila, who also celebrates

"With the welcoming done…" Tommy continues speaking, "I guess you're wondering what we're doing here.

"To waste time!" A student shouts from the side of the auditorium.

"Something like that," Tommy jokes quickly, making everyone in the auditorium laugh again; when everyone has laughed, Tommy continues, "As you know, I like to talk, so all of you are going to listen to me talk for 30 or 40 minutes."

"Ughhhh," Some students react.

"Hey! Listening to me talk is better than being in a classroom or, worse, hanging out with Mrs. Holden." Tommy points to a scary German Shepherd lady with reading glasses standing to the side of the auditorium.

"Booooooooooo" Everyone boos the teacher, taking Jean-Luc by surprise. He even looks at Bluey beside him, who is also booing the German Shepherd while recording with her phone.

The teacher, Mrs. Holden, opens her arms in superiority and shouts in her experienced voice, "YOU LOVE ME, EVEN IF IT'S HARD FOR YOU TO ADMIT IT!"

"Yes…" Tommy says as the boos stop, "We all love you, Holden…Well, let's talk about why we're here…Darline, the projector.

A white screen slowly lowers from the platform's ceiling until it stops in the center. Then, a light image with graphics containing a lot of information and numbers is projected.

"This," Tommy points to the projection behind him, "It's a graph of the school's finances. I know that not everyone can read graphs like these, so let me say that…we had a budget increase."

"Wow!" The entire auditorium makes noise with applause and cheers for the news.

When the noise dies down, Tommy continues, "One of the reasons we had an increase is because of the creation of the Brisbane School Field Hockey League, and we were one of the first schools to create a team to participate in the initial season…Darline?"

The stage lights and projections go out, leaving the auditorium in darkness as a soft rock song begins to play.

"Over the summer, "Tommy speaks in the darkness with the song's intro playing in the background. "Coaches Vegas, Degas, and Joliet were working on building our hockey teams, and it is a giant pleasure to show them for the first time the 'Fireflies' uniform and the honorary student wearing the number 10 on her back."

"Ladies and Gentlemen…"

"Bingo April Heeler!"

The climax of the song plays, and the stage lights come on, showing a smiling Bingo in uniform with a field hockey stick in both hands from the back of the stage, slowly walking towards Tommy with everyone's cheers filling the place.

Bingo's uniform consists of a tank top in two colors: red on top and blue on the bottom. The school logo on her chest and blue shorts with the number 10 in gold on her left thigh.

Jean-Luc looks at Bluey beside him and notices her filming her sister with a small tear of pride coming out of her eye. Jean-Luc doesn't blame her at all; he'd like an introduction like that, too.

When Bingo comes to stand next to Tommy, the rock song stops, and he starts talking, "Bingo is going to be one of the 17 women of the Fireflies and 17 men of the Auroras who will participate in the first season of the league. Tell me, Bingo. Do you have any words for the school?"

Bingo grabs the microphone tightly and shouts, "LET'S GO FIREFLIES, WOOHOO."

"WOOHOO!" Bluey also shouts along with some.

"Alright, Bingo," Tommy says as he grabs the microphone, gives Bingo a high five, and continues. "Good luck on the season," and with that, Bingo leaves the stage.

"Okay…Another reason why we had a budget increase is because the school district recognized us as one of the best schools in Brisbane." Tommy was interrupted by more cheers from everyone; when they finished, Tommy continued, "So to maintain that level, they sent us more money for equipment and classroom improvements, and after doing the math…we realized that we still have money to spare…so I made a decision

"To celebrate the tenth anniversary of this school, I consulted with an expert in school activities and…

"At the end of the school year…we will have a Prom school dance."

…

…

…

…

…

"What?" a stunned Jean-Luc says to himself. He looks around to see Bluey's classmates and friends celebrating, but she, Mackenzie, and others are making confused faces. But Jean-Luc can't hear anything from the shock.

"Prom…Dance?"Jean-Luc says, totally dizzy and with a sick stomach, threatening to expel its contents through his mouth. His world around him seemed to be on a seesaw, barely managing to put two and two together in front of him.

Unfortunately…Jean-Luc already had experience at the Prom at Tyler Allart.

Not a very good experience…

"(You really thought…)"

"(You're a loser Jean-Luc…)"

"(You never had a chance…)"

"(Look at Jean-Quak Hahaha…)"

"(Quak Quak Quak, Asshole)"

"Luke?"

"!"

Jean-Luc jumps in fright after hearing the voices from his past and quickly turns his head towards Mackenzie, who has a hand on his shoulder, while Tommy continues talking in the background, "Are you okay?"

"Ah, yes, I'm fine," Jean-Luc answers reluctantly before looking back at Tommy…but his gaze slowly unfocuses so as not to listen to Tommy and concentrate on his thoughts.

It is common knowledge in Australian schools that Jean-Luc learned, that they do not have school dances "Prom" with all the students, limousines, slow and fast dances, and formal suits. The Australians have the "Formal" for senior students, a dinner with all the graduates in formal suits, but that's as far as they go.

One thing he learned in his training as an exchange student is that students are there to learn about the local culture, and in some instances, the locals also learn about the student's culture.

Of course, Jean-Luc had to admit it, formals sound boring…But it is part of the Australian student culture…but everything sounds better than being in the glamour and general anxiety of the Prom season.

He should have seen this coming…that a school with American DNA would introduce the prom dance to the lands down under.

"And now that we know what a prom is," Tommy says after explaining to everyone, "I would also like to thank Alice, who taught me everything she knows about the school dance." Tommy points at Alice, who has a smile and her tail wagging.

…

…

…

"(What the fuck?)" Jean-Luc thinks as his face turns into a frown of betrayal, and he slowly moves his gaze towards his compatriot friend, who looks happy.

Now that changes everything…

If there is one thing Alice drilled into his head, it is that a culture exchange is like water and oil. They don't mix… In other words, don't transform the local culture with the home culture.

She knows what happened to him when he went to prom for the first time and how upset he is about the school dance.

So she completely ignored what she said herself and what he thought about the prom.

With a grumpy face…Jean-Luc plans in his head how to release his disgust.

Surviving Chemistry and History

And then…

---

"FUCK YOU ALICE!"

"FOR WHAT!?" Alice yells befuddled from the Principal's chair with her legs on top of the table

Tommy's principal office*

Recess-2*

"You really went ahead-

"HUH?"

Jean-Luc gritted his teeth and raised his clenched fist. His eyes were wide open in anger as he slowly moved his face away, but his eyes were still on her. "You really went ahead and went against your word."

"..." Alice moves her eyes away for a second, then looks at Jean-Luc again and answers without shame, "No?"

"Huh?"

"Look," Alice said, moving her feet away from the top of the table and leaning towards him. "It was Tommy's idea. He approached me and asked what I knew about prom dances. He said he wanted to do the same thing this school year…and I led him in. So technically, I didn't break my rule."

"You still broke it."

"How?"

"You still messed up these guy's culture. You can't go over the Pacific and make these people change the Formal to the Prom dance."

"Are you deaf? Tommy said the Formal is still going to happen. The Prom Dance is going to happen a month before the end of the school year for everyone to enjoy."

"You, still, messed, it up," Jean-Luc continues with the pressure. "You said im here to experiment the Australian culture, not fucking, Australian culture with maple syrup flavor."

"I'm doing these people a favor." Alice still stands her ground. "The Formal is only for graduates; we both know it's boring A.F, and it's a guarantee the Prom dace it's going to be glue to their memories,"

"(Gooddamit)" Jean-Luc looks away disgusted before looking at Alice again "(You are a goddamed hypocrite) I was really counting on this trip to fucking forget everything that happened last time I went to one of those fucking dances, and you are coming from the fucking northern lands of fucking Yukon to fuck me over."

"Ohh!" Alice leans back on the chair with a fake surprised face and nods while saying, "I see where you are coming from…"

"Huh?"

"Jean-Luc," Alice put both forearms on the table and leaned forward to get her head closer to him to say menacingly, "Grow a pair, tug it out of you, or have surgery to have balls. I don't know how you are going to do it but grow the fuck up. Just because you had one bad experience in a prom dance doesn't mean you have to screw over the others…I don't know if you are going to figure this out one day or the next, but… this ain't your show."

"Last time I checked," Jean-Luc says normally, "You are here because of me."

"No," Alice points at him, "You are here because of me, and you know it."

"You didn't do all the work…You know I earned this."

"I did most of the work if you remember correctly. Do you know how important you are for everyone back home for me to be sent here with you?" Alice leans back on the chair and continues, "I could have been drinking hot chocolate while refereeing the losers of the beer league, but noooooo, Jean-Luc 'Quebec's Railgun' Picard Labrador has other plans."

Jean-Luc simply raises one eyebrow in disbelief with an empty face.

…

…

…

"Now that I say it out loud, you actually did me a favor," Alice finally confesses.

"Thank you?" Jean-Luc looks at her mockingly, trying to make her to thank him

"Don't push it."

"Fuck you, Alice."

"Fuck you, Jean-Luc, your father should be ashamed of you for getting triggered by the word 'Prom,' you really think you are the protagonist, but you a grain of salt none one cares. Give your balls a tug, you fucking loser," Alice chirps him.

"..." Jean-Luc innocently moves his eyes away from Alice, unfazed by her chirping because deep inside him, he knows she is not being for real. After looking away for a second, he mutters loud enough for Alice to hear, "Bluey cares."

"Bluey?...Oh yeah, the blue Heeler. Honestly, you are lucky you found her on your first day here, " Alice opines. "Because I need you to focus on school because if you don't, both of our asses are going back to Canada."

"Okay then… I'm gonna go; I'm hungry." Jean-Luc turns around, pulls out his cap with the Canadian flag from his backpack, and puts it on; he puts on his backpack and walks to the door but stops right in front of it. "Hey, Alice,"

"Yeah?"

Jean-Luc opens the door and goes through it but only keeps his head inside the office to say to her, "I'm still pissed off at you…But, another thing…Considering Tommy let you use his office…Do me a favor…Keep your legs close."

"!"

Jean-Luc moves his head back and closes the door, with a resounding scream from the inside as he is walking away, "FUCK YOU, JEAN-LUC."

"hahaha," Jean-Luc laughs for himself as he keeps walking to the cafeteria before speaking French. "(I really love you, Alice) hahaha"

---

Cafetería*

After letting some steam off with Alice, Jean-Luc enters the cafeteria for recess.

Unlike earlier, the cafeteria is packed with students, either making a line to grab food from one of the bars or at every table seat. This forces some students to go outside and feel the Aussie sun on their coats…Luckily for Jean-Luc, he already has a sandwich for lunch, and he knows his friends will keep him a seat in their spot.

As Jean-Luc was briefed by Mackenzie days prior, Due to the school schedule, there are two recesses for half the school each day, which means only a part of the club can have lunch together while the other part is still in class and waiting for their turn to have their recess. This also means the time before classes is the only time they can be together. So when he reaches the club's table, he finds Bluey, Bingo, Chloe, Coco, Indy, Jack, the Terriers, Pretzel, Snickers, Lila, Dougie, Pom Pom, Felix, Sadie, Juniper, and the Jasper duo.

Jean-Luc finds a spot between Bluey and Bingo, who probably saved the place for him. Bluey is minding her own business and eating a meat pie while Bingo talks to the rest in her hockey uniform. Jean-Luc sits in the empty spot, removes his cap, and pulls out his sandwich to eat it while the rest of the club keeps talking.

"I still can't believe it," Lila says with starry eyes. "We are going to have our own school dance like the Americans and their movies."

"Yeah, It's going to be so cool," Chloe says

"I already started planning for it," Pom Pom talks. "If I have my chance, im asking a boy out.

"Wuuuuu!" all the girls at the table react, except Bluey and Bingo.

"Geez…" Dan the terrier speaks, "...There is still a whole year ahead of us, no need to start planning things out."

"I was planning to ask you out, Dan, but I changed my mind," Pom Pom says jokingly.

"hahaha," the two tables laugh, except Bluey, Jean-Luc, and Dan, who just learned his lesson.

"Hey, Bluey?" Coco calls her after everyone stops laughing. "Are you alright? You look really quiet today."

"Oh? Yeah, I'm fine," Bluey answers with a downcast demeanor as if something terrible happened.

"Really?" Coco asked again but only received a nod from Bluey before focusing on her lunch. "Okay, if you say so."

"(Coco is right)" Jean-Luc thinks while watching Bluey from the corner of his eye. "(Bluey seems off today, she is not the same happy girl as before)"

"GUYS!" a boy shouts, approaching the tables from behind Jean-Luc. The blue Labrador turns around to see Chucky, who finally makes an act of presence in the day. "We need to talk!"

"About?" Snicker asks with an eyebrow raised

Chuck finally stands in between Bluey and Jean-Luc and continues, "We need to change Lucky's and Judo's nicknames."

"Why?" Joe asks

"Cuz they are being fucking bunnies, man."

"Okay, okay, okay, okay," Juniper silences him. "Context is important."

"Judo's mom caught Judo and Lucky sleeping together when she tried to wake her up," Chucky finally tells.

"Okay, someone has separation anxiety," Jasper G. says

"Okay, devil's advocate here," Indy gets in with one swearing palm up. "Just because they were caught together doesn't mean they did it."

"I agree with Indy." Lila also talks.

"They did it," Chucky claps back at Indy and Lila with a dead face. "Lucky came home stinky, and my parents forced him to take a shower before coming here."

"Wow…" Jean-Luc reacts in amazement

"Indy…" Snickers finally enters, looking at her. "You and Rusty may be able to sleep together romantically, but most guys our age cant sleep together and not end up doing it."

"Pff, okay," Indy defeatedly focus on start eating her sandwich

"Okay…So what's the new nickname for them?" says Jean-Luc, trying to be interested in the conversation

"From 'Lucky bastard' and 'Ms Crown' To 'Yellow bunny' and 'White Bunny'" Chucky suggests

"Just because they were caught once?" Jean-Luc asks

"Because they were caught a lot of time," Chucky tiredly says. "We caught them the day before the party and two weeks ago and three weeks ago…Trust me, those two are bunnies. Me, my parents, and Judo's mother are okay with them being together as long as they are responsible…but this is ridiculous."

"Hey guys"

Lucky says as he and Judo approach the table with shiny, bright, glossy furs and a tray with meat pie each, hoping for someone to finish eating to give up their seat, but they only see everyone looking at them with shameful faces.

"What?" Judo exclaimed

"Judo…Lucky…" Pretzel speaks slowly. "You guys know we took Dog biology together…right."

"Yeah?" Judo and Lucky say

…

…

…

"Oh"

"And Chucky said Lucky took a shower," Adam the terrier says as he is pulling together the pieces of a puzzle. "so… if their furs are bright,"

"Fur can be brightened…" Pretzel recalls slowly. "If there is a lot of blood pumping through the veins… like…after…"

"HELL NO!" Bingo shouted out, "You guys are not beating the bunny allegations."

"WHAT THE FUCK, GUYS?!" Chucky shouted with his whole lungs

"Motherfuckers!" Snickers joined in, "Barely one day of school, and you guys are already doing it."

"WHERE!?" Chucky shouted again

"None of your business!" Judo and Lucky say at the same time with blushed faces

"Ok," Felix speaks. "Everyone say 'yay' if you agree to change Lucky's and Judo's nicknames.

"Ya- "{I HAVE COME TO MAKE AN ANNOUNCEMENT}"

Everyone on the table snaps their heads to look at a tall Dalmatian with a megaphone standing on a table almost in the center of the cafetería with a clipboard with a paper in his left hand "{JACK THE TERRIER IS A BITCH ASS MOTHERFUCKER. He didn't let me or my girlfriend sleep after a party with his hard learning friends and their autistic music and their special needs microphones and their discounted speakers and their…}"

As the Dalmatian keeps rambling, Jean-Luc slowly says to the group, "Who is him?"

"It's Logan," Coco answers. "he is one of the club bullies and the guy trying to get into Chloe's pants."

"And he will never succeed," Chloe says, completely ignoring the Dalmatian.

"{And because this is our first day together for some of us, and some of you need to learn your places}" Logan talks authoritatively through the megaphone. "{my name is Logan, Dane, Dalmatian, and I have made…the vocabulary…of Logan…drink it in, mannnn}"

"Does he even know what that means?" Juniper whispers to Sadie, but she just shrugs her shoulders as Logan raises the clipboard to show it to everyone

"{And on this vocabulary}" Logan keeps talking about the clipboard "{Is everyone I consider to be a horrible person and that I'm better than them… Let's start from the top}"

Logan raises the clipboard and reads through it.

"{Jack Terrier}"

"{Rusty Kelpie}"

"{Mackenzie Border-Collie}"

"{Bluey Heeler}"

"{Jack Terrier}"

"{Snickers Dachshund}"

"{Winton Bulldog}"

"{Pretzel Chihuahua}"

"{Jack Terrier}"

"{Indy Hound}"

"{Coco Puddle}"

"{Honey Beagle}"

"{Jack Terrier}"

"{Winnie Labrador}"

"{Lucky Labrador}"

"{Judo Chow Chow}"

"{Jack Terrier}"

"{Adam Terrier}"

"{Joe Terrier}"

"{Dan Terrier}"

"{Jack Terrier}"

"{Bingo Heeler}"

"{Lila Maltes}"

"{Dougie Cavapoo}"

"{Jack Terrier}"

As Logan keeps saying names, Jean-Luc looks back to the table and sees Jack pulling a megaphone from his backpack, which Indy notices.

"Hey," Indy puts a hand on top of Jack's Hand and the megaphone. "Remember what Rusty told you, just ignore him, let him get tired."

"Ugh… okay," Jack obliged, putting the megaphone on top of the table to look at Logan. Jean-Luc also decided to look back at Logan and listen to him.

"{Jasper G Doberman}"

"{Jasper W Rottweiler}"

"{Bentley Cavalier}"

"{Zara Cavalier}"

"{Jack Terrier}"

"{Joey Logano}"

"{Austin Dillon}"

"{Denny Hamlin…Cuz he sucks hahaha}"

"{Jack Terrier}"

"{Lance Stroll}"

"{The whole Red Bull F1 team"}

"{Dirty Dom}"

"{Jack Terrier}"

"{Fanfiction servers}"

"{AO3 servers}"

"{Wattpad}"

"{Jack Terrier}"

"{Logan Paul}"

"{Jake Paul}"

"{Cocomelon}"

"{Danica Patrick}"

"{Jack Terrier}"

"{Player 338 in Squid games}"

"{The writers of the new trilogy of Star Wars}"

"{Dolores from Harry Potter}"

"{The guys using ia to make stories}"

"{Jack Terrier}"

Logan stops for a second to look around the table. He points at a random student and says, "{The Chubby guy eating a hamburger over there}" to then keep looking around to point at another one to say, "{The weird looking guy over there at the table}" Logan keeps turning around until he points at YOU and says "{The person reading this long ass story}"

Logan looks back at his list and continues, "{Jack Terrier}"

"(This guy needs an ego check)" Jean-Luc thinks as he slowly turns his head back to the megaphone Jack put on the table. "(Someone has to put him in his place)"

"(Set the fucking tone)" The voice of Louis from his speech resounded in Jean-Luc as he grabbed the megaphone.

"What are you doing?"

"Jean-Luc?"

"Don't!"

Jean-Luc stands up, takes two steps forward, turns around, and sprints to hop on the table to turn around and look at Logan.

He turns on the megaphone and speaks.

"{LOGAN!}"

Logan stops going through his list to look at Jean-Luc perplexedly.

"{I just noticed something}," Jean-Luc says, with his friends below him looking at him with wide-open eyes. "{My name is not on that list…So, does that mean im better than you?}"

"OHHHH!" the whole cafeteria reacts.

Logan shakes his head, befuddled; he points at Jean-Luc with the hand with the clipboard and asks, "{Who are you?}"

"{Name is- "{NO ONE CARES WHAT YOU NAME IS!}" Logan interrupts Jean-Luc out of nowhere.

"{In fact}" Logan signals someone from his table to give him a pen to write on the list "{Im gonna put 'Meddler Purple Labrador' under 'Jack Terrier'…So you can learn some fucking respect, you idiot. Because by the looks of it, you are hanging out with the ill-mannered bastards of Glasshouse, so that can explain a thing or two }"

"Jean-Luc…" Indy calls him, "... Don't escalate things. He is not worth it."

But what Indy, Bluey, and her friends don't know

Is that this aint Jean-Luc's first rodeo with bullies

"(Ok…)" Jean-Luc thinks with a neutral face "(If Alice wants to put some of the canadian culture here…Then let's take the 'Round Table' here)"

Jean-Luc mouth slowly went from a neutral position to a smug, cocky smile.

He turns on the megaphone again.

And says mockingly

"{Fuck you, Logan, your mom love spending time with me so much that there is a hidden white spot in her fur. Give your balls a tug, you fucking loser"}

"{What!?}" Logan exclaimed

"What!? The table under Jean-Luc exclaimed

"HAHAHAHAHAHA!" the whole cafeteria explodes with laughter after seeing Logan's reaction.

Under the laughter of everyone, Bingo turns around to look up at Jean-Luc and says, "I don't know how you came up with that, but that was awesome!"

"It's my favorite chirp against Dalmatians," Jean-Luc talks, still with the megaphone up but looking down at Bingo. "I even thought of saying it to Chloe in the game of musical chairs ."

"Well, good thing you didn't say that," Chloe speaks jokingly, "cuz I would have kicked your butt."

"Rightfully so," Jean-Luc says before looking back at Logan.

After a few seconds, with a thunderstruck face, Logan violently shakes his head and says through the megaphone, "{Hold on, hold on, hold on, Let's go by parts, who the hell do you think you are to speak to me like that}"

Jean-Luc smugly shrugs his shoulder before answering "{I don't know…Your daddy?}"

"Ohhhh." The whole cafeteria reacted again.

"{Wow…}," Logan says, "{You really are a special case like your friends. Do you need your dad to spank your ass like a little kid? I can do it for him if necessary}"

"{Try me; see what happens}" Jean-Luc shakes his free arm and hand.

"{Yeah? What's gonna happen, lil kid?}"

"{Three things}" Jean-Luc raises his free hand and raises one finger for each sentence. "{I hit you, you hit the floor, ambulance hit 60}"

"{You really think your witty comebacks are gonna help you? Your arms are like noodles, and it looks like you still have brain damage}"

"{Not really…But it will help me fuck your mom if I get close to her}"

"OHHHHHHHH!" Everyone reacts

"HEY HEY HEY!" out of nowhere, a female yellow and white English Cocker Spaniel hops on the table next to Logan, snatches the megaphone out of him, and starts speaking through it angrily. "{Look, I don't know who do you think you are, but you can't come here from I don't know where with your French accent to fight one of us; that's terrible manners, Frenchman, and I'm gonna report you to Tommy}"

"{Just because a guy has a French accent doesn't mean he is from France…}," Jean-Luc says before continuing sarcastically, "{ That's really disrespectful of you to assume im from France, and im gonna send you to Tommy for hurting my feelings…By the way, who the hell are you!? One of Gru's minions!?}"

"She is Bailey!" Coco answers again, "One of the main bullies of the club."

"Geez…" Jean-Luc says, looking at Coco under him. "Another loser?"

"{You know what…}" Bailey speaks "{Fuck you, Frenchman, You are as mentally ill as the losers from Glasshouse}"

Jean-Luc, without missing a beat, "{Fuck you, Bailey, you look like the most generic default villain in a Disney animated movie, you look so lame you probably eat apples for breakfast, lunch, and dinner and die at the end of the movie from a boulder to keep the film PG}"

"{Hey!}" Logan snatches the megaphone from Bailey "{You can't talk to my Girlfriend like that!}"

"{OH! You guys are a couple?}" Jean-Luc asks in surprise, to which the couple answer proudly, nodding their head. "{Geez…Sex must be boring then}"

"OHHHHHHHHH!" Everyone, including Jean-Luc's table, loses their minds

"OUT OF MY WAY!" a sturdy female light blue and white Heeler hops on the table, snatches the megaphone from Logan, and points at Jean-Luc with her hand. "{I know you, Labrador!}"

"{You know me?"}

"{I know you, coward!"}

"{You know me…from where?}"

"{Capta- "{HUH!}" Jean-Luc interrupts her

The light blue Heeler frowns before taking her megaphone near her mouth to continue, "{I know you from Captain Burke Park}"

"Captain Burke Park…" Jean-Luc whispers to himself, "Light blue Heeler…"

"!"

"Oh…that Heeler"

It's the same Light blue and white Heeler selling ice cream at the park in downtown Brisbane where he had to push Bluey away from her to avoid a fight

"Grrrrrrrrr!" Jean-Luc looks down to see Bluey, Bingo, Lila, and Dougie growling at the light blue Heeler in total hate

"{Oh…}" The Heeler leans her head to the side like a villain when she notices the four dogs. "{Hello again, Bluey. Did you recover from last year's beatdown? and oh, guys!…Bingo…Lila…and Dougie…I honestly missed you guys}"

"FUCK YOU, DIAMOND!" all four dogs screamed at her

"Coco…" Jean-Luc looks back at her. "Context for the helpless?"

"She is Diamond," Coco explains again. "Bluey's, Bingo's, Lila's, and Dougie's personal Bully…It's a long story."

"Personal bully?" Jean-Luc says, befuddled, "Oh, Canada…If im going to have a personal bully, then I hope it's a fucking rocket."

"{I haven't forgotten about our first encounter Labrador}" Diamond speaks "{You ran away like a bitch!}"

"{Granted… I did run away with Bluey…}" Jean-Luc says. "{But it was because your breath could be classified as a weapon of mass destruction…I believe Bush wants your number}"

A face of horror appeared on Diamond's face before speaking through the megaphone, "{Fuck you, Labrador, you are a fucking coward}"

"{Fuck you, Diamond, your arms are so big, people second guess your gender; make yourself useful and open my can of pickles, you dumb broad}"

Logan snatches the megaphone from Diamond and says, "{Fuck you, Labrador, Why don't you go fuck yourself with your friend that smells like Sauerkraut}

Bailey snatches the megaphone from Logan and says, "{Or go fuck yourself with your weird friend with fabrics on, like seriously, there is no need to have so much secrecy here}"

Diamond snatches the megaphone from Bailey and says, "{Or go fuck yourself with your weird friend I actually had to second-guess its gender. Tell 'it' we speak English over here!}"

…

…

"(Wait a second…)" Jean-Luc thinks, confused, still with his megaphone raised to his mouth

None of the members of the club match those descriptions.

So…

"It is an absolute honor to welcome our first batch of exchange students to Southern Stars."

Tommy's voice rang again in his head, reminding him of the first time he met him at school and the phrase that confused him a lot.

"(Could it be…?)"

RINGGGGGGG*

The school bell sounds off, and everyone in the cafeteria stands up after enjoying the verbal tomfooleries of Jean-Luc and the bullies.

"(Think about it later)." Jean-Luc shakes his head and speaks through the megaphone for the last time, "{You three are the most pathetic losers I have ever seen in my life; you three should be investigated because it is impossible to be this lame. Nice hustle, hollow heads, Give your balls a tug}"

Jean-Luc tosses the megaphone from under towards Jack, who awkwardly catches it; Jean-Luc then hops down the table under the cheers and applause from his friends.

"Nice job, mate," Jasper G says as he high-five Jean-Luc.

"Way to go to put them in their places," Jasper W says as he high-fives him.

"Purple trash talker…" Says Felix, high-fiving Jean-Luc. "That could be your nickname."

"I mean…" Jean-Luc as says he picks up his backpack "If it makes you feel happy"

Jean-Luc and his friends walked off the cafeteria with the rest of the students to continue with their classes.

---

Tommy's Principal office*

"So…What do you think?"

Alice asks Tommy. They are both sitting down with the sights gue to Tommy's computer, watching the live feed of the cafeteria, where they witness the entire exchange between Jean-Luc and the bullies.

"As much as I like Jean-Luc…" Tommy says, "It's not in the best interests of us that he is going to seek troubles like that…Although kudos to him for standing up for the Glasshouse club, I will admit it was fun to watch."

"Yeah…" Alice leans back on her chair without emotion. "The kid I met eleven years ago and the kid I met In Tyler Allart are not the same kid that came out of St. John's."

"You mean that Hockey match against the Seagulls?

"Yeah…He been chirping in the games to provoke others since he started playing, but he started doing those scenes at school after St John's. I also wasn't expecting him to chirp one guy and two girls without disregards on his first day here."

"Well…As long as he doesnt 'drop the gloves' on someone...We will be fine."

"Yeah…I will talk to him."

---

"Jean-Luc!"

On his way to the class, the blue labrador turns around to see Bluey, with red cheeks approaching him with a white cap. "Here…You forgot this in the cafeteria."

"Oh," Jean-Luc grabs the cap from her. "Thanks, Bluey"

"Ahh." Bluey's cheeks get redder, and she starts to stutter, trying to say something back, "Ye, Yeah! yo, you are welcome, Lu, Jean-Luc! S,seeya" Bluey says before walking fast out of Jean-Luc's sight.

"Umm," Jean-Luc looks weirdly at Bluey, walking away before looking at the cap his father gifted him before leaving Quebec.

Jean-Luc passes his thumb over the cotton texture of the white cap with a red brim until his eyes pose on the leaf and the white and red colors of the Canadian Flag stamped on its side. He feels the patriotic sentiment through his veins, already feeling nostalgic for his home place.

"It is an absolute honor to welcome our first batch of exchange students to Southern Stars."

Tommy's voice passed again through Jean-Luc's head as he kept repeating.

"Batch"

"Batch"

"Batch"

Tommy's words can only imply one thing.

There are more exchange students in Southern Stars.

The real question looming Jean-Luc's head is

"Who are they?"

Notes:

You know, I fucking sent it when Grammarly was like, "This is way too long."

Due to the feedback in the two months prior, i decided to merge two chapter in one since they are both in Jean-Luc pov

The song in the first school scene is "Superstar" By Big Time Rush.

For references, I'm only gonna say:

"Give your balls a tug":...Can you tell I watched way too much Shoresy the last two months?

The cafeteria scene was inspired by "The Lexicon of le champion of Chris Jerico," "WWE promos," "Dr. Eggman's I have come to make an announcement," and a whole lot of "Shoresy chirping."

idk when the next chapter is going to be; I wanna write first a chapter of "You are not Alone" and then finally write and upload the second chapter of "The Legacy of a Thunder" before writing the next chapter

Until next time

Chapter 16: Strength in Unity

"(One of the many things to consider as an active exchange student in foreign lands)" Alice explains to her class, walking in between the rolls of chairs from the back of the classroom to the whiteboard in the front with both hands behind her back like a serious teacher, "(Is that you will never be alone)."

Canada, Quebec City*

Tyler Allart High School*

One Year ago*

Alice arrived in front of the borrowed classroom's whiteboard and turned around to see a room full of aspirant exchange students paying close attention to her while writing notes. Her star student, Jean-Luc, was seated in the front row, curious and attentive, hitting his mouth with the eraser part of the pencil.

"(Here is my rule of thumb)" Alice raise and show her raised thumb "(If there is an exchange student around…there WILL be two more somewhere else)"

"(If a high school decides to accept exchange students to study in their installations. They will never just accept one student. And considering my experience coordinating exchange students here…There are at least 3 or 5 foreign students in each Canadian high school at any given time)."

"Oh," the whole class, including Jean-Luc, reacts.

"(Let me tell you…since you guys are cool…there are only three exchange students here in Tyler Allart and one of them is kind enough to spend some time with us)"

Alice turned her gaze towards the teacher's desk, where a male teenage German Shepherd around Jean-Luc's age was sitting down with a serious frown. "(Buddy, your turn)" Alice says to him

The Eskimo steps aside while the German Shepherd stands up and walks to where Alice was to look at the class and finally address them in French with a neutral tone and German accent.

"(Good afternoon everyone. My name is Gruber Schäferhund from Frankfurt, Germany and I'm gonna tell you guys about dealing with other exchange students)"

"(Hold on a second)" Alice interrupts him to look at Jean-Luc and says "(Gruber spent a few years in Brisbane, he might tell you some things about his experience there)"

"(Really?)" Jean-Luc says in surprise, snapping his head toward him

"(Yeah)," Gruber talks with a bit of a nostalgic tone in his voice. "(Four years in Brisbane, I still remember selling sausages with my father and some other stuff about that city)"

"(Alright, you guys can talk about this later)" Alice intervene "(There is still a presentation to do)"

Gruber sighs to prepare to talk and then continues.

"(One of the main things to consider, is that they might be from other countries and from different programs, so there is always that possibility that you might not know about them until you attend the pre school year meeting)"

"(There is always the possibility that these people could wander on their own, have their own friends, have their own experiences, and probably want nothing to do with you guys. But one advice I can give you guys is to befriend them anyway…)

"(Because those are the only people that will understand your position and sooner or later)

"(That unity…Is going to be your strength)."

---

Border-Collie home*

Present day*

When setting foot into Australia…Jean-Luc dumbly thought he was going to be the only exchange student at Southern Stars.

By the looks of it…after chirping Logan, Bailey, and Diamond at the cafeteria on his first day of school

He was wrong.

The day he met Gruber Schäferhund a year ago starts reproducing in his head when he sees a photo of him after scrolling through Instapaw and eating a sausage and egg burrito before going to school for his fourth day in the Australian High school.

Jean-Luc could readily admit he wasn't the most incredible social media person in his group of friends. Still, that morning, he couldn't avoid looking through it to see the few people he followed: Louis spending time with his family, a video by Thatcher of him training before the hockey school season starts, a post by his dear mother posing with her friends in the streets of Quebec's old city, Alice's post of a photo in the auditorium before the assembly on day one and surprisingly for him, a post by Gruber.

Gruber's post features a photo of himself and another teenage male German Shepherd smiling as they hug each other by the shoulders while standing in front of the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin.

"(Looks like Gruber and his boyfriend did have a good time)," Jean-Luc thinks dearly as he takes another bite out of his burrito. He and Gruber spend such a great time together that Gruber confessed to him his sexual orientation, sometimes proudly wearing the pink, purple, and royal blue of the bisexual flag on his cheeks for special occasions.

"Jean-Luc," Mel calls him from the kitchen next to Fozzie with his correct pronunciation. "We are leaving in 20 minutes."

"Ok," Jean-Luc replied as he focused on the photo and his burrito.

"Oh yeah!" an incoming Mackenzie exclaimed, grabbing his plate with his burrito to walk towards the table. "I'm gonna enjoy this."

Fozzie quickly turns his head around and quips, "'Hi gonna enjoy this, Im dad.'"

"DA-" Mackenzie frowns, grabs his burrito, and threatens to throw it, while Fozzie just keeps on laughing in the kitchen.

Mackenzie rolled his eyes and calmed himself down before sitting next to Jean-Luc, who returned his focus to his cell phone.

Gruber's post reminded him of the first time he listened to him.

None of the people he traveled with were assigned to his high school, and he didn't have the Pre school year meeting he mentioned. He did have the meeting with Tommy, but that's about it.

"It is an absolute honor to welcome our first batch of exchange students to Southern Stars."

Tommy definitely meant what he was saying according to the bullies.

Somewhere roaming around the high school are the rest of the exchange students Tommy implied

Considering the bullies found them first, and considering they will not be friendly towards them.

Means Jean-Luc has to find them.

Fast.

Gruber said it…Their unity is their strength.

But how is Jean-Luc going to find a handful of foreign students in the sea that is his High school?

By using Gruber's words

A.K.A. 34 friends that definitely spend more time than him in Australia

Jean-Luc drops his burrito on the plate, picks up his cell phone, and quickly enters his friend's group chat.

---

Glasshouse Club's group chat*

Jean-Luc: Good morning everyone

Jean-Luc: Question: did anyone see students that looked different, like if they are a breed that's not from around here? Like another exchange student?

Lucky: I will tell you who is not from around here.

Lucky: I keep seeing this guy walking into the cricket field in the morning with a weird glove on him and playing with a ball.

Rusty: Wait WHAT!

Rusty: EVERYONE KNOWS YOU ARENT SUPPOSED TO WALK THERE

Rusty: I will check it out.

Jean-Luc: But did he look from somewhere else?

Lucky: Idk couldn't tell his breed if that's something.

Jean-Luc: Okay…Interesting

Jean-Luc: Something else, guys? Anything?

Coco: HEY, NOW THAT YOU MENTION IT

Coco: I SAW THE DOG BAILEY DESCRIBED. SHE WAS WEARING THOSE WEIRD HEAD THINGIES THAT COVER HER HAIR, BUT ONLY HER FACE WAS VISIBLE.

Coco: SHE IS DEFINITELY ONE OF THEM

Jean-Luc:...

Bentley:...

Zara:...

Bentley: That's a Hijab

Zara: That's a Hijab

Coco: YES, THAT, A HIJAB

Jean-Luc: Muslim exchange student. Yes, awesome

Jean-Luc: Anything else?

Dougie: I think I got in the class with the person Diamond mentioned at lunch two days ago

Dougie: She is right. It's hard to tell "its" gender, but she is definitely a girl and looks like a husky, but she is not a husky.

Dougie: She has headphones so loud I could even hear her music,

Dougie: Music in another language.

Dougie: When the class ended, she started signing in that language on her way to her next class

Jean-Luc: Ok

Jean-Luc: There could be more, but finding those three will be a headstart

Jean-Luc: Thanks, guys, you guys are awesome

---

"As you grow up, you'll face harder things than a cricket ball, and you'll have two choices.

Back away and get out…

Or step in front…and play a pull shot."

Even after 11 years. His father's words are still rigging strong in the head of Rusty Allen Kelpie. And it was those words that impulsed him to the reputation he has now.

Start player in the Southern Stars cricket team and two-time national champion with the team

Straight A student.

And according to the haters…dating the prettiest girl in the school.

Rusty worked to be where he is now… everyone acknowledges that.

And now…A kid will have to acknowledge him soon enough.

Southern Stars High School*

Rusty sighs. He had just finished driving her sister Dusty to the Southern Stars middle school next door and Indy to the High school's main entrance. He parked in the students' parking lot near the cricket field. There are still 20 minutes until the beginning of classes, so he has time to deal with the lost kid.

"Ok…Let's deal with this guy," Rusty thinks before getting out of the car, picking up his green backpack from the backseat, and setting sail to the small high school cricket stadium.

As with any other Australian city, Brisbane is rife with cricket fields for everyone to enjoy Australia's favorite pastime. But the cricket field at the high school was different. Players like Rusty were very clear that the field was off-limits due to superstitions and fears of damaging it before practices and matches. The player's devotion to the field is so great that even Rusty himself wouldn't mind beating up the poor soul who ignores the rule.

His friends and classmates were on the same page…it's a dumb hill to die on.

But he doesn't care.

Rusty finally walks to one of the entrances and finds a large group of dogs facing the field. He recognizes them as his teammates. Some have cricket bats over their shoulders and are resting, and some lean towards each other to whisper words.

"HEY!" Rusty steps in as captain. He takes off his backpack and shouts, "What's going on here!?"

His teammates turn around, and one of them, a white Bull Arab with a bat and ball in hand, says, "We need to teach this idiot a lesson."

The dog throws the ball into the air.

CRACK*

And expertly hits it with his bat, launching it high into the air toward the middle of the field.

Rusty sees the red cricket ball swiftly spinning high in the air, totally unfazed as it cuts through the air and makes its way down with speed

The ball kept spinning and spinning.

About to hit the grass

Until

THUT*

A quick brown and white flash catches the ball, the fast figure slows down with one leg hops until he stops and throws the ball back to the group.

The Visitor is a tall dog with the face and body reassembly of a Labrador, but the top part of his body only has a Brown color. The rest of his body is brown with many white dots, a combination Rusty has never seen in his life. The visitor also has a weird, big leather glove in his left hand.

"Komm schon!" The dog hits the interior of his glove twice with his fist before spreading his legs and crotch with the glove slightly up. "Ist das alles, was du hast?"

"Grrrrr," the bull Arab growls in frustration and moves his hand out to receive another ball from his teammate. He throws the ball up and hits it with his bat. Launching it straight to the brown dog

The visitor reacts with little hops, keeping his eye on the object. The ball hits the grass and keeps rolling fast towards the brown dog, who effortlessly puts himself in front of it and scoops it out of the grass with his glove.

"Ernsthaft?" The dog frowns, confused, as he takes the ball out of his glove and throws it towards the group "härter zuschlagen."

"What's going on?" Rusty asks strangely, leaning slightly toward the Arab Bull. "Why is he still on the field?"

"We made a bet with him," A brown retriever says. "If he fails to catch one ball, he is banned from the field."

"Why not drag him out of there? You know? To beat him up?"

"He boasted that he is good with that glove where he is coming from," A yellow Chihuahua says. "That's why we decided to play with him."

"Well, that will end," Rusty snatched the bat from the white dog's hand and stepped forward. "Carey, set the balls for me."

"Sure thing, Cap," The chihuahua says, grabbing more balls and kneeling ahead and next to Rusty.

One white and cream Dingo steps forward and shouts to the visitor with both hands around his mouth, "NOW YOU FUCKED UP, KRAUT, OUR CAPTAIN IS GOING TO FUCK YOU UP."

Rusty was preparing his bat and swings to challenge the visitor, "HEY!" but a shout from him interrupted him. Rusty looked at the visitor with angry intentions and listened to him.

"Von hier," The visitor extends his right leg and drags it from left to right, forming a line, "wird es nicht passieren."

"Grrr" Rusty growls under his breath. He understands the message perfectly and looks at Carey. "Ok, throw them."

Carey softly throws the cricket ball upward in an ark so that when it falls, it's going to be in Rusty's swing area. When he has the first ball in his sight, Rusty swings from the back of his shoulder and hits it hard, launching the ball high over the field.

CRACK*

The visitor quickly reacts and runs back fast while looking at the ball. The ball finally makes its way down,

THUT*

But the visitor manages to catch it just in time.

"Wow!" The visitor exclaims, slowing down, gabbing the ball from his glove, and throwing it back at the group. "Das ist ein guter Schwung"

"Again!" a teammate shouts.

Carey throws the ball, and Rusty hits it. The ball follows the same route as the first one, so the visitor catches it with no difficulties with his glove up.

"What if you hit it somewhere else?" One of the teammates suggests

Even without saying something else. Carey throws, and Rusty hits it, aiming away from the visitor so that the ball can pass by him.

The visitor snaps his eyes open and runs quickly across the field. Rutsy looks in awe at how the dog runs; it reminds him of Jack in his running competitions, but he holds his breath like his teammates when the rolling ball is about to pass the dog's imaginary line.

In a desperate attempt, The dog dives forward in front of the ball and catches it with his glove; the dog slides across but with his glove raised, signaling to the group he got the ball.

The school's cricket team reacts in amazement. They know the dog is good, but they don't expect him to be good enough to be willing to make the catch.

But the visitor's stellar performance didn't change Rusty's opinion in the slightest. His blood started to boil, and he grinded his teeth.

Rusty was already used to the glorious sight of his hits going past fielders and winning games.

But him?

He is different.

Whoever he is, he is good at what he is doing.

"Endlich ein würdiger Herausforderer," the visitor, who is already standing, says in a jokey tone as he casually throws the ball back. "das hat mir viel Spaß gemacht."

"Grrr." Rusty growls again, showing his teeth. He puts his bat behind his head to prepare to swing, looks at Carey, and nods.

The Chihuahua sets another ball for Rusty. When it's in the swigging zone, Rusty releases all his strength in his swing and hits the ball with force.

CRACK*

"Oh!" The visitor reacts. He makes a few steps back with his open feet and glove slightly up, looking straight at the furious ball.

THUT*

Nevertheless, the visitor catches it, with the sound of the cricket ball being stopped by the glove resounding the entire field.

"Again!" Rusty orders and swings with anger at another ball

CRACK*

"SCHEISSE!" The visitor reacts scared. He drops the previous ball on the ground and raises his glove just in time to catch the ball.

THUT*

"Again!"

CRACK*

THUT*

"AGAIN!"

CRACK*

THUT*

RINGGGGGGGGGG*

The school bell sounds in the distance, marking the beginning of classes…

But Rusty isn't done yet.

"Keep them going!" He says, irritated, ordering Carey not to stop throwing balls

Even with tired arms, Rusty keeps swinging with all his forces to send balls down range against the meddlesome dog.

CRACK*

THUT*

After catching the last ball, the dog starts marching toward the group, wanting to end the little game against the Cricket team to go to class.

But he still has to survive Rusty's cricket balls.

CRACK*

Rusty swings at another ball.

THUT*

The visitor catches it, extending his left arm to his left, and drops the ball on the grass to continue moving forward.

CRACK*

Rusty swings at another ball.

THUT*

The visitor jumps and catches the ball. He lets it drop and keeps walking.

CRACK*

Rusty swings at another ball.

THUT*

The visitor catches the ball but manages to get close enough that it is dangerous for Rusty to bat another ball. So, he doesn't bother dropping the ball to free his glove.

However…

"Arggg!" Rusty drops his bat, grabs a ball from Carey, "ARHHHHHH!" and throws it with all his power towards…the visitor's face.

"!"

"Ah"

"Ouh"

The visitor…managed to catch the ball…with his mouth.

Rusty pants heavily, sweat clenching his forehead and arms, while his team around him looks with dropped mouths at the dogs who keep walking towards them, with inflated shoulders and a red cricket ball between his teeth in his mouth. The visitor finally stands before Rusty and Carey, removes the ball from his mouth, casually brushes the ball off his saliva with his fur, and presents it to Rusty with an open palm while he finally says with a Germanic accent, something the team can understand.

"That was fun Kumpel"

Rusty stops panting and looks at his teammates from the corner of his eyes. The rest of the team also looks at each other with anxious faces…

…Until finally, Rusty grabs the visitor by the fur of his shoulder and drags him to the front of the seating stands with the help of Carey and the White Bull Arab. The rest of the team turned around towards the school with innocent faces to ensure no teachers were coming to the cricket field to interrupt the beatdown.

With his remaining strength, Rusty drags and slams the visitor against the metallic stairs. He grabs the fur where his collarbone is, gets on top of him, and raises a fist to prepare to punch him right in the face. "Do you think you are funny!? EH!?"

The visitor raises his right hand, signaling mercy, and says, "Where is your competitive spirit, mate? That was a good exercise."

"The problem is not the game!" Rusty lifted the visitor and slammed him again against the metal. "The problem is that no one is supposed to play in this field! It is reserved for the school team!"

"I made a bet with your guys."

"That bet is canceled!"

Rusty winds up and throws the punch, but the visitor reacts quickly and catches Rusty's fist with his glove to deflect it to the side. The deflection makes Rusty fall on top of the visitor, making them stay face to face.

"Hey, Listen!" The visitor speaks with determination, a few centimeters from Rusty's face. "I get why you are angry; I truly get it. If there were a sign on the fence saying, 'Not allow entry,' then yeah, I would have paid attention to that. So don't come at me screaming that I made a mistake."

"Well, now you know," Rusty speaks. "Don't step foot in this field!"

"What if we made a deal? I won't step into this field ever again…if you guys let you attend your training sessions."

"What?" Rusty gets his hand out of the glove and gets himself up to stay as before

"Honestly," a standing Carey speaks, "A fielder like him could be useful for us."

"I agree," The white Bull Arab says. "he could teach us something."

"Ummm," Rusty thinks, looking at the visitor with a slight frown.

It's hard to face it, but no one in Brisbane could keep up with his hits in an official game.

But also, his Germanic accent is hard to go unnoticed.

"Maybe…" Rusty thinks, "He is one of the exchange students Jean-Luc is looking for."

Rusty finally gets up and also helps the visitor get up with his hand. "Ok…Training session today after school."

"Eindrucksvoll!" The visitor exclaims

"So, obvious question," Carey points at the leather glove. "What's that?"

"This?" The visitor finally removes the glove and shows it to the three boys. "It's a baseball mitt, shipped straight out of Amerika."

"A baseball player? You definitely don't look American," The white dog questions

"I am from Hannover, Germany," The visitor says proudly. "I'm gonna study here for the whole school year."

"Considering you might train with us," Rusty says, and then finally asks, "What's your name?"

"My name is Sebastian Bracco. Nice to meet you guys."

---

"Even the most soft, behaved girls can move mountains with sheer will.

It doesn't matter how many steps it will take.

Every small step, it's a step towards your dreams."

The therapist's words still ring strong in the head of Honey Bee Beagle, quotes she bothered to put everywhere, from her phone wallpaper, books, and her humble room.

It was the words she needed to climb out of her dark place after…

"The incident"

Honey squints her eyes hard, beating herself up with shame and trying to push those memories away before opening them up again and seeing the task ahead of her.

Orchestra storage room*

Located far from generic classrooms, artistic classes are in a special section where students can focus on their creativity. This includes music students, for whom the school needed many instruments to teach them music.

And because there are many instruments, someone must keep track of them all.

That's Honey's job during the first period of the day. A job she got thanks to her position as occasional conductor of the orchestra…and because the therapist suggested it to the school to keep Honey's mind distracted.

"Better than nothing," Honey thinks. With a list in her hand, she strolls around the tall room to count instruments.

Honey's workplace is a tall, spacious room with racks and cabinets next to the walls. It contains all the orchestra's big instruments: drums, tubas, saxophones, cellos, double bass, harps, and everything else. In the middle of the room, there is a massive wooden grand piano that is exclusively used for special occasions.

After counting the big instruments, she strolls towards another smaller room where there are racks with smaller instruments like violins, flutes, violas, ukuleles, and oboes, but when she peaks her head inside, she flips the switch, but the light doesnt turn on.

Honey frowns and makes a quick mental note for Darline, the music teacher, to tell Tommy to fix it. But for now, Honey pulls out her cell phone and turns on her flashlight to keep counting.

The White and yellow Beagle count with her pencil at the smaller Instruments on the racks.

4 violas here

10 flutes here

6 violins here

5 more violas here

6 clarinets here

"Okay, I think that's all," Honey thinks with pride, standing in the middle of the dark room. She looks through the list one more time, using her cell phone as a lamp, but her happy face changes to a confused facade.

"I'm missing six more violins," Honey thinks and looks up with her cell phone to illuminate the room and spots another rack in a corner with the six missing violins.

"What in the world?" She thinks with dejection as she drops her shoulders. "How did I miss that?"

"CUZ YOU ARE DUMB"

Honey squeaks, falls on her knees, and shuts her eyes with force at a male's deep voice, Desperately pushing away the memories of…Him. Doing everything she can to not break down in the dark room and cry the rest of the day.

"You are not dumb, Honey…You are stronger than you realized."

The comforting voice of her Border Collie best friend, who has been helping her since the incident and before, comes to the rescue in her mind, calming the muscles and soul of the troubled Beagle. Who finally recovers control over her emotions

"Thanks…Mackenzie." Honey, with eyes closed, whispers…with a hint of love.

Thud*

"!"

The sound of the door closing shoots up Honey's ears. She is not expecting anyone to come and visit her. Darline is busy teaching, like every other professor, and Tommy is busy spending time with the visitor Eskimo. Curious, she gets up, turns her head towards the small room's exit, and slowly ambles towards it.

As her line of sight connects with more of the big room, her sight slowly connects with a figure standing next to the piano in the middle of the room, appreciating the massive instrument.

The figure has a pink backpack. She is wearing a light coral dress that hides her tail, small black heels, and a brown headscarf that covers her head and neck, but it only makes the light brown fur on her face visible. Unlike her friends, this dog has a long nose, similar to Felix and Indy, but shorter.

"She must be the girl the group chat mentioned," Honey thinks, marveling at the girl in clothing as she slowly walks beside the piano bench.

The Visitor removes her backpack and pulls out her cell phone. She scrolls through it for a few seconds and then leans it against the music rack, showing an image of a music sheet. She carefully sits on the bench, holding her dress to keep it out of the way, and gently glides her hands over the keys.

And with one hand over the keys, the visitor reaches for her phone with the other hand and taps it once before retracting it.

The device emits a soft melody, and at the same time, the visitor tenderly presses on the keynotes, producing medium to low notes. Honey instantly recognizes the melody as an electronic song transformed into a piano melody and slowly follows the song in the first verse without a voice.

We're not in love

We share no stories

Just something in, your eyes…

Don't be afraid

The shadows know me

Let's leave the world behind…

The visitor moves her fingers faster and slowly bobbles her head, not looking at the phone but at the keys under her hands…She found her place.

Take, me, through the night

Fall in-to the dark side

We, don't need the light

We'll live, on the dark side

I see it, let's feel it

While we're still young and fearless

Let, go, of the light

Fall in-to the dark side

Even from Honey's position, The visitor has her eyes closed, completely taken away by her creation.

Fall in-to the dark side

Give in-to the dark side

Let, go, of the light

Fall in-to the dark side.

…

…

…

"Wow"

"!"

The visitor startles and looks straight at a Beagle, who has both palms up to show she is empty-handed.

"Easy," Honey calmly says, getting closer to the visitor. "That was amazing."

"Where do you come from?" The visitor questions with a gently, soft, Arabic voice

"I was in the little room behind me," Honey explains. "I guess you didn't notice I was there."

"I didn't…" the visitor looks away in shame. "Sorry for scaring you. I don't have a class this period, so Ms. Darline told me I can hang around here."

"That's totally fine, but…You are amazing," Honey praises again. "Never seen someone that skillful with a piano."

"I thank my Al'umu and Allah for my knowledge. It was hard to learn to play the piano when I was a kid."

"All that practice paid off."

"Yeah…" the visitor rolls her eyes before looking at Honey again. "Although I must confess, I prefer to play the electric guitar."

"Really?"

"Yeah, my Eamm, Rahima-hul-lahu," The visitor says quickly in her language before continuing, "Taught me how to play the electric guitar."

"Wow," Honey reacts, amazed before asking, "But I heard…that Muslims can't play instruments."

"Yes, we can." The visitor happily and sarcastically shakes her hands.

"No, I mean, your religion."

"Oh, of course…"

Honey takes advantage of the second of silence to sit next to the visitor on the piano bench just before she says, "It's…confusing."

"I'm listening," Honey softly reassures.

"It's a mess," The visitor starts explaining, looking at the piano before her and Honey in intervals. "Some scholars say its haram, Some scholars say it's halal, a lot of people just don't care and tell you do what you want and they move on with their lives… no one can agree on something…But who knows…" The visitor shrugs her shoulders before saying humbly, "Allah knows best."

"So…What do you think?"

"I think…" The visitor looks at Honey straight in her eyes. "Music and instruments can be tools to get us closer to Allah and his teachings, and they can be beneficial to the communities back in my home in Egypt."

Honey softly smiles, and her tail starts wagging. The visitor's answer warms her heart with pride because of her position as orchestra conductor. Honey extends her hand towards her and says, "I'm Honey Beagle. Nice to meet you."

The visitor glances at Honey's hand for a second before gently extending her hand and shaking it.

"My name is Dalilah Kelp. Nice to meet you, too."

---

"A dog in the right moment, in the correct place, can make all the difference.

And sometimes…it can change the world."

Out of all the dogs in the Glasshouse club…

Judo Wells Chow Chow had by far the most complicated childhood.

Her parents divorced at an early age, and her earliest memories include many trips from her mother's house to her father's house and vice versa.

The only time she experienced some sort of stability was when she went to primary school with Lucky and Chucky for six years. She will always be grateful that her parents didn't have jobs that made them travel around Australia…at least, that's a pretty good silver lining.

Unfortunately, the trauma of having divorced parents caused her to project that anger and instability into a sassy personality typical of her breed, something she unknowingly projected against her neighbors. She knew she had a personality problem when she emotionally hurt Bingo's and Chucky's feelings when she was 7. She did her best to correct her attitude…

But unfortunately…her definitive lesson came in her second year of secondary school, a lesson based on punches to her face, kicks to her stomach, and fur pulls from a certain fed-up Poodle and Afghan Hound.

In those troublesome times, when she didn't know what was wrong with her, Lucky was the one dog who stood beside her and helped her see the light in her attitude.

He was the person her mother quoted a long time ago.

Lucky changed her world.

"C'mon, girl," Judo thinks as she shakes her head to stop thinking about her boyfriend while walking towards her next class. "You still gotta attend one more class before seeing him again."

Judo finally returns to reality and enters Ms. Sonoma's kitchen/classroom with her friends Pretzel and Pom Pom behind her.

Kitchen/Classroom of Southern Stars*

"Alright, guys!" An adult female white, short-haired Chihuahua shouts in front of the teacher's desk as her students make their way to one of the kitchen cubicles of the large room, "Into your cubicles, let's get some cooking done!"

Judo, Pretzel, and Pom Pom Easily arrived at their cubicle, a small kitchen with everything they needed to cook, ingredients, a small oven, a mixer, a sink to clean dishes, and a small set of measuring cups and spoons. After leaving their backpacks on the floor, they decided to look around at the rest of their classmates going into their cubicles.

When almost everyone was in their place, it was clear as day that one cubicle, the one next to Judo, only had one student, a husky-like dog with a blue face, white neck and chest, a blue back and wearing dark blue headphones around the neck was by itself, looking around the classroom looking for someone.

"Oh," the professor, Ms. Sonoma, notices the dog, approaches the cubicle, and says sorrowfully, "Looks like your classmates didn't come today. Maybe we can have you join up with Dip and Comic. It's just both-"

"MONARCH!" a female shouted behind Ms. Sonoma. Judo looked beyond her to see a male red-heeler student who had just entered the classroom.

"Comic!, Dip!" The young male red heeler exclaimed with open eyes before walking faster to a cubicle to meet up with a female blue Heeler and a male boxer

"Wow," Pom Pom sounds off with a disgusted, confused look and says in a low voice, "Do they like each other or what?"

"They do"

The three dogs look at the cubicle next to them to see a young female red heeler, with fur darker than Bingo, leaning towards them. "Trust me. Even as Monarch's sister, it's hard to break into their circle."

"That's cute, Prez," Pretzel says with half-closed eyes.

"Sorry…" Ms. Sonoma turns to the lone dog. "It looks like every cubicle has a team of three." The Chihuahua quickly glances at Judo's cubicle and notices that they are paying attention to her. She returns to the dog and continues, "Maybe you can join the cubicle next to you."

"It's alright." The dog reveals her female, northern, rough accent. "I can do this by myself."

"You sure?"

The blue dog nods

"Alright," says, walking back to her desk and leaving the blue dog alone. She looks around her cubicle as if analyzing the tools she has available.

"She gotta be crazy," Judo thinks, confused as Pom Pom and Pretzel inspect their kitchen equipment and ingredients.

"ALRIGHT CLASS!" shouts, gaining everyone's attention, "Today, we are going to be cooking a family favorite, chocolate chip cookies."

"Alright!" "Awesome!" "Woohoo!" The entire class celebrates

After the class settles, Ms. Sonoma continues, "I'm going to pass around these paper packages with instructions to make Cookies. You guys will have 20 minutes to prepare the tray with the cookies before we bake them at the same time. You will get a positive score if you successfully make a batch of 12 cookies…and obviously the pleasure of eating them afterward."

"Woohoo!" "Yeah!"

For the next few minutes, Sonoma passed by every cubicle to hand each group their package on how to make cookies. She casually handed the bunch of paper to Pretzel and the lone dog.

The chihuahua and pomeranian don't waste time looking through the book and reading the initial instructions, but when Judo glances at the lone dog, she watches how the dog moves her head as she reads fast before closing the book and throwing the whole thing impertinently into the trash can next to her.

"Det här är lätt," the dog murmurs in a language Judo had never heard before as she puts on her headphones and moves to grab the big bag of flour and the small bag of baking soda,

"Weird and crazy." Judo rolls her eyes to join up with her friends

"Okay…" Pretzels speaks, standing in front of the bowl and looking at the instructions "First things first…"

"Melt butter on medium heat…"

…

"Brown sugar and mix…"

…

"Add eggs."

…

"Add vanilla and salt and mix."

…

"Hey?" Pom Pom interrupts, "Aren't we supposed to add baking soda?"

"No?"

"Let me see."

"No, I know what I'm doing."

"No, of course not. Give me that!"

"Hey!"

Pretzel and Pom Pom start wrestling to get control of the instructions while Judo curiously looks at the cubicle next to them to see the lone dog already scooping balls of cookie drought into the tray to be baked while singing in a low voice.

Welkom in Europa, blijf hier tot ik dood ga

Euro-pa-pa, Euro-pa-pa

Welkom in Europa, blijf hier tot ik dood ga

Euro-pa-pa, Euro-pa-pa

"Weird, Crazy, and Fast," Thinks Judo before turning her attention to her friends.

"Hey!" Judo calls them and gets the instructions out of Pretzel. "Here, it says we need to add backing soda."

"Told you!" Pom Pom blurts

"Ok, ok," Pretzel gives up.

"Alright, let me do this." Judo stands in front of the bowl and reads the instructions

"Add flour…"

…

"Add chocolate chip…"

…

"Mix everything until no white flour is visible. Ok…" Judo holds the bowl with her whole arm and grabs a large mixing spoon. "Here I go,"

Shifting down on the spoon, Judo starts mixing the bowl in extended circles to get everything. However, after 10 minutes of mixing, the dough still has many white spots.

"What's going on?" Judo questions confused with tired arms

"Maybe we need to mix it more," Pretzel asks.

"Are we sure we put everything in?" Pom Pom asks

"Yeah," Judo leaves the bowl on the counter and grabs the instructions again. "We put everything in there."

"Nah," Pretzel grabs the paper from Judo. "We are missing something."

"I'm one hundred percent sure we are not missing something." Pom Pom says

"PomPoms!" Pretzel snaps at the pomeranian

"Coffee dog!" Pom Pom snaps at the Chihuahua

The Glasshouse cubicle sinks into madness. The three friends argue and tussle for control of the instructions while the rest of the students and teacher are busy with their situations.

Ich bin in Deutschland, aber ich bin so allein

Io sono in Italia, maar toch doet het pijn

The arguing noises stop when the low-sounding singing of the lone dog slowly strolls in front of the cubicle while mixing a bowl and keeping her sight on Ms. Sonoma as she helps the cubicle of Monarch, Comic, and Dip.

The Dog keeps looking at the busy teacher…

Until she rapidly turns to the cubicle and replaces the three friend's bowl with the bowl she was mixing a second ago

And while singing in a low voice, she winked at Judo and returned to her cubicle under the astonished looks of her, Pretzel, and Pom Pom.

Zet de radio aan, ik hoor Stromae met "Papaoutai"

Zal niet stoppen, tot ze zeggen: "Ja, ja, dat doet 'ie goed, ey"

…

…

…

"Ok…" Judo shyly grabs the new bowl with the new mixture, grabs the scooping spoon to prepare her cookies, and thinks, "Weird, Crazy, Fast, and helpful."

Luckily for Judo and her two helpers, she prepared the tray with 12 cookies before Ms. Sonoma put all of the student's trays into the oven for 16 minutes, a time everyone used to clean the bowls and utensils used in the preparation.

After 16 minutes, Ms. Sonoma pulled out all the trays and set them on a wooden table. Every tray contained 12 perfectly cooked cookies, except for one with a weird paste the length of the tray itself.

"What the hell!?" Dip shouts addled

"How!?" Monarch also shouts, addled

"You guys are so dumb!" Comic shouts

"I…" Ms. Sonoma tries to say something at the sight of the mishap, "I don't know what happened."

"Ok!" Judo, Pretzel, Pom Pom, and the lone dog approach their trays. "Bon appetit, I guess."

"We should let the girl have the first bite," Pretzel suggests. "After all, she made these cookies."

"Yeah…" Pom Pom looks at the lone dog. "You should grab first."

"Alright…" The girl murmurs as she steps forward, grabbing a cookie from her tray to bite it. "Ummmm, not bad." she drops her cookie, picks up a cookie she made for Judo's group, and bites it. "Puaj," The girl spits the cookie bite and drops the cookie. "Inte mitt bästa resultat," she says in her language before walking back to her cubicle.

The girl's reaction confused Judo a lot. Did she make bad cookies just for them to have a good grade? It's just Chocolate chip cookies. It can be that bad, Right?

Judo finally steps forward, grabs one cookie from the tray, and takes it to her mouth to bite it with her eyes closed.

…

…

…

The surrounding area of Judo slowly turns black.

And fireworks started to fly up and explode.

"!"

"Weird, Crazy, Fast, helpful, and good," Judo thinks as her eyes widen. She stops chewing the soft and crunchy texture of the cookie, and after recovering from the shock, she devours the entire cookie in a single bite…then another one…then another one.

"HEY!" Pom Pom and Pretzel scream, to then dive in to be alongside Judo and eat the rest of the cookies like animals.

When the tray was clean of any crumbs, Judo turned to the lone girl with crumbs around her mouth and said, "What were you talking about!? These are the best cookies I have ever tasted!"

"Glad you like it," The girl says indifferently, adjusting the straps of her yellow backpack. "It's not my best batch of cookies…which I guess makes sense since I made that batch quickly to help you guys."

"So…" Pretzel slowly turns his head towards the girl's batch of cookies. "You are saying those cookies are better?"

"Yeah," the girl nods. "You can have it."

"Hoo-HEY!" Pretzel is interrupted by Pom Pom, who sprints towards the other tray to get as many cookies as she can, but Pretzel quickly follows her

With both her friends busy, Judo turns her attention to the girl. "Hey, thanks for helping us. We didn't know what went wrong with our dough."

"You guys put way too much flour in the mixture," the girl explains. "I knew you guys didn't have time to set up the tray, so I made the mixture…Dad always says to share your talents with those around you, so…Du är välkommen."

"That accent," Judo asks. "Where are you from?"

"I'm from Stockholm, Sverige," The girl says with a smile and closed eyes.

"huh?"

"Oh…Sorry, I'm from Stockholm, Sweden."

"She is definitely the girl Jean-Luc is looking for," Judo thinks before saying, "I'm Judo. Nice to meet you."

"I'm Kolina Vallhund, nice to meet you too"

---

Outside the school offices*

Lunch 1*

It was finally lunchtime in Southern Stars, instead of being with his friends and eating. Jean-Luc paces in a circle outside the school's offices, waiting for someone who he asked for a favor to come out of there.

"Jean-Luc!" Finally, for the Labrador, Alice comes out of the office with a folder in her hands. She shows them up and celebrates, "I talked to Tommy and the coordinator, and I got everyone's information here."

"Ok, ok, let's see it." Jean-Luc excitedly gets next to Alice, who opens the folder and reads the information.

"Sebastian Bracco, German Bracco from Hanover, already on a contract with the Boston Titans as a developing baseball player."

"Wow," Jean-Luc shakes his head back. "This kid is going places."

Alice turns the page and reads.

"Dalilah Kelp, Pharaoh Hound, her father is an important businessman in Alexandria, Egypt, and she is a guitar player on the weekends with her cousins."

"Interesting"

Alice turns the page and reads.

"Kolina Vallhund, Swedish Vallhund, Half Swede, Half Dutch. Both parents are successful restaurant owners in Scandinavian and central Europe, massive aspirant cook"

"Well, now I'm hungry."

"And obviously…" Alice turns the page

"Jean-Luc Labrador…"

Jean-Luc and Alice raise their heads to spot the German Bracco walking towards them with Rusty by his side.

"From Quebec City, Canada…"

The covered Arab Pharaoh kelp approaches alongside Honey.

"Local hockey player star with the nickname "Quebec's railgun"

The blue and white Swedish Vallhund approaches alongside Judo.

"Oh…" Jean-Luc's nervous eyes bounce between the three exchange students who are in the same boat as him in the new chapter of their lives. "...Hi, nice to meet you guys."

"So you're the dog that said all those things to those guys," Kolina says, pointing at Jean-Luc. "I told Dalilah that your accent is not from around here."

"You reminded me of my Al'umu whenever I did something wrong," Dalilah amicably says to Jean-Luc. "She always comes up with the most random things to say."

"Pfffff" Sebastian blows raspberries before commenting, "I wish I could have been there. I would have laughed my ass off."

Jean-Luc and Alice look at each other briefly before looking back at him and saying simultaneously, "Canadian Hockey, baby."

"Well…" Rusty gets in the conversation, "Honey, Judo and I gotta go back to the cafeteria, lunch ain't gonna eat itself."

"Yeah, sure," Jean-Luc talks. "We will catch you guys later."

And with that, Rusty, Honey, and Judo turn around and walk towards the cafeteria, leaving the exchange student delegation to have their first meeting together.

"Ok, first things first," Sebastian says. "We knew there was a Canadian exchange student, but I never expected it was you who chirped those guys."

"You got everyone talking about it," Dalilah adds.

"I know," Jean-Luc says. "They deserved it for being losers."

"You need to teach me how to speak like that. I need It for my games," Sebastian says

"You play Hockey?"

"Baseball"

"COOL!" Jean-Luc and Sebastian high-five each other, and the labrador says happily, "The athletic duo in the barn."

"Well…" Kolina chips in. "Dalilah and I could be the cook's duo."

"I…" Dalilah slowly turns her head towards the Swede. "Don't cook…"

Kolina snaps her head towards the Egyptian and says worryingly, "But I thought you said you cook for your brothers."

"Only Koshari! Nobody in my family likes my cooking."

"Pretty sure she can teach you how to cook?" Sebastian adds

"No/Nope," Dalilah and Kolina shake their heads, "too complicated."

"I see…" Alice gets into the conversation "because of differences in culture."

"Who are you?" Sebastian asks

"Alice, Quebec's program sent me to overlook this little goober," The Eskimo says, petting the top of Jean-Luc's head.

"Stop ittt." Jean-Luc shoves Alice's hand out of his head.

"Anyway," Alice says as she returns to address the group, "I just barely talked to the exchange student coordinator of West Brisbane, and she told me you guys can come to me with any doubts, and I will bring it up with Tommy."

"Awesome," Sebastian says as Dalilah and Kolina nod their heads.

"Let's go to the cafeteria," Jean-Luc suggests. "I'm hungry."

"I agree, let's go," Sebastian says

"You guys can go; I'm gonna stay with Tommy. You guys have fun," says Alice, already turned her feet to walk back to the office

"Ok," Jean-Luc shows his thumb up, and the exchange student delegation makes their way to the cafeteria.

---

Cafetería*

Jean-Luc and his brand-new friends step into the cafeteria. The Labrador had already made peace with himself that he would not sit with Mackenzie and his friends to catch up with the rest of the foreign students.

But as Jean-Luc and the group keep walking deeper.

In a table in the center

Logan aims with his slingshot at the unaware Labrador with a grape loaded. Around him were his girlfriend Bailey and his friends, Diamond and three other dogs, ready to jump in the action.

"Actions have consequences, Labrador," Logan whispers with malice…

…Before turning around and letting loose the grape towards a yellow chihuahua, Rusty's teammate, Carey

"Ouh!" The grape hits Carey right behind his neck and rotates to shout out, "WHO WAS IT!"

Logan stands up…and points at the unaware Jean-Luc.

"Fucking Labrador" Carey grabs an apple and throws it at Jean-Luc.

But he, who didn't have an idea what was going on, just saw an apple flying right in front of him before hitting another student.

"Ouch!" the student rotates and shouts, "THE FUCK IS WRONG WITH YOU."

"IT WASN'T FOR-OH," Carey ducks as a vegemite sandwich comes his way and lands on a female student behind him.

The female student throws her sandwich.

Another student throws his pasta.

Another student throws his salad.

Another student throws her cookies.

"Oh no," Jean-Luc whispers.

This could only mean one thing…

"FOOD FIGHT!"

The cafeteria magically transforms into a lousy warzone. The smell of food engulfs the air as all the students keep throwing and covering each other with their messy lunch.

"LETS GO!" Jean-Luc shouts and signals the three dogs to follow him quickly, and under the flying food, Jean-Luc arrives at the table of the Glasshouse club

Rusty, Jack, Pretzel, Bingo, Winton, The terriers, Banjo, Felix, Buddy, Juniper, Sadie, and Harley got in the fray, while Mackeznie, Honey, Bluey, Judo, Coco, Pom Pom, Dougie, Lila, and Snickers were hiding under the table.

Rusty and Jack rapidly flip the two tables to create a barrier, which provides some cover. Jean-Luc, his group, and his friends hide behind it.

On the floor and his back against the table's underside, Sebastian adds under the noise, "Well! Tommy wasn't kidding this school comes straight out of the movie!"

"Wonder where the filming crew is!?" Kolina adds

"Right here!" Snickers says, preparing his camera

"Well, underbar/wunderbar!" Kolina and Sebastian say at the same time.

Without being seen, Dalilah reaches and pulls a bucket used by the janitor, turns it around, and, using her hands, creates a makeshift fast rhythm simulating a battery.

"Huh," Jean-Luc leaned his head slightly, listening to the tone. "Aim for me?"

"Aim for me?" Kolina repeats

"Aim for me?" Sebastian repeats

…

…

…

"AIM FOR ME!"

"YEAH!"

Sebastian and Kolina step out of the cover and throw the first thing they find while Jean-Luc runs and hops on a table on the raging battlefield and sings.

It's a great big world

And you don't believe in nothin'

Don't believe in nothin' anyway

"Ahhhhhhh" Kolina and Sebastian sing

So we got a lot to learn

But we started out with nothin'

With my friends we're going on our way.

"Ahhhhhhh," Kolina and Sebastian sing while Jean-Luc keeps hopping from table to table.

Some people changin'

Your life will rearange

Even when your so far from home

When it's said and done

And you got yourself a run

That's okay we'll never come undone

Jean-Luc goes around and sings with Sebastian and Kolina, pointing at them.

Aim for me!

Aim for me!

Aim for me!

Aim for me!

Sebastian steps out of the cover, hops on another table, and sings, going from table to table.

They'll try to count you out.

But you gotta count yourself in

There's no time to throw it all away.

"Ahhhhhhh" Jean-Luc and Kolina sing.

Now I'm tellin' I'm ru-shing

See the trouble that we've been in

Didn't ask for nothing along the way

"Ahhhhhhh," Jean-Luc and Kolina sing before they all sing together.

When it's said and done

And you got yourself a run

That's okay we'll never come undone

Some people changin'

Your life will rearange

Even when your so far from home

Aim for me!

Aim for me!

Aim for me!

Aim for me!

"WOW"

"ALE! ALE!"

"UNDERBAR!"

"HAHAHAHA"

While Jean-Luc, Sebastian, Kolina, and Dalilah keep dancing and singing and making music

Juniper, Harley, and Sadie set up a massive slingshot to send sandwiches to the other side of the place.

Mackenzie hugs Honey and Bluey to cover their heads behind the table.

Jack got hit by a cake right in the head and went down. Rusty went on his knee and cried for a medic.

The terries used their trays as shields to cover Winton and Banjo like legionaries.

Snickers tries to take pictures, but the camera lens is hit by pasta.

Pretzel and Pom Pom were still eating the cookies made by Kolina behind the table.

And Bingo got close and personal with one of her male friends and buried his face into a plate of pasta.

But in the middle of the chaos, Jean-Luc, who is still clean, hops on a table with Kolina and Sebastian while Dalilah stays on the floor with her improvised battery. The three dogs interlace their shoulders and do the Cancan dance, raising their knees and then doing a high kick while signing.

Some people changin'

Your life will rearange

Even when your so far from home

When it's said and done

And you got yourself a run

That's okay we'll never come undone

Aim for me!

Aim for me!

Aim for me!

Aim for me!

Aim for me!

The three dogs stop dancing, Dalilah stops with the battery and joins them, and all four dogs sing the last part while the food is still being thrown around them.

Some people change…

Your life will rearange…

Even when your

So…

Far from…

Home…

The teachers finally appear and slowly stop the madness. When the noise is low, and the food stops flying, Mackenzie peeks his head out of the cover to check that the coast is clear.

PLAM*

Only to receive a pie right in his face from Logan, he takes cover again with Bluey and Honey, who pass a finger over his fur to taste it and nod affirmatively. Mackenzie put both fingers over his eyes and removed the cream to murmur menacingly.

"Now you are dead, Logan."

Notes:

Songs used

Piano scene: Darkside by Alan Walker

Cookies scene: Europapa by joost klein

Food fight scene: Aim for me by Sugar Ray

WELP. Sebastian, Dalilah, and Kolina, if there is one chapter I wanted to write, is this one

I could go on and on about these three but we will stay here for the whole day

Only references is that the Food fight scene was inspire by max keeble's big move food fight scene

And as a respectable Ace Combat fan, I had to do my duty and reference the characters of Project Wingman: Monarch, Dip, Comic and of course everyone's favorite WSO waifu Prez

Until next time

Chapter 17: Second Wind

Notes:

You gotta admit the April fools prank of the missile copypasta was fun (At least for me lol)

There you have it, new chapter

"Ok, it's working now."

The beginning of the recording captures Bluey's 14-year-old voice as she leans forward, setting Mackenzie's phone against a platform. She sits back down next to Mackenzie at the cafeteria table, with the gray cinder blocks behind them.

Southern Stars Middle School*

Lunchtime*

4 years ago*

"Hi!" Bluey greeted the camera with a slight waving hand. "I'm Bluey Christine Heeler."

"And I'm Mack Tāne Border Collie!"

She snickered and leaned towards Mackenzie., "Your real name," she whispered.

Mackenzie sighed and corrected himself. "Mackenzie Māriri Border Collie"

"And this," Bluey continued talking to the camera, "is our project for Professor Bristol, our time capsule assignment!"

"Yeah!" Mackenzie added, with the same excitement as her. "This is our message to our future selves in six years, when we are about to graduate from high school."

"Yeah. So right now, we are in the cafeteria where we eat-"

"HEY! GET BACK HERE!"

Coco's faint shout from off-camera sounded off, causing the duo to look up and beyond the camera with curious, shocked expressions and raised ears.

"I'm gonna step in." Bluey stood up and moved to the side away from the camera, leaving a confused, worried Mackenzie behind.

"What do you want?" Judo's young voice came from behind the camera, which was still aimed at Mackenzie as he looked over it.

"To talk," Coco said menacingly.

"Not interested."

"Oh, so you don't wanna run your mouth now!?" Indy's voice was heard too, with a tone of anger.

"I don't have to."

"Girls, please," Bluey's voice was audible, pleading to the three girls.

"No, no, no. Let's talk now, bitch," Coco insulted.

"Sorry, I'm not interested in talking with the wannabe model and the ugly hippie."

"WHY DON'T YOU SAY THAT TO OUR FACE, BITCH?!" the poodle exclaimed, directly threatening Judo.

"I don't wanna be close to your ugly face," Judo underhandedly retorted to Coco, sounding like she was about to walk away.

"Go, talk, to THEM!" Honey's irritated voice roared.

The camera caught Mackenzie's eyes broadening in terror.

"Waitwaitwait"

"BITCH!" Indy screamed furiously.

"YOU ARE DEAD!" Coco added, her voice equally enraged.

"NO, NOOOOOO!" Bluey's terrified voice sounded.

"BITCH FIGHT!"

With that, the whole cafeteria exploded in cheers and screams of morbid support for the girls. Mackenzie can only react by grinding his teeth and closing his eyes sporadically at every angry insult and punch from Coco and Indy, every grunt of pain and tussle from Judo, every desperate shout and grunt from Bluey to make them stop, and every remark from the spectators like "Punch her harder!" "Break her teeth!" "Hit her with the elbow!" "She deserves it!"

The recording caught Mackenzie with wide-open eyes, desperately shaking his head, as if something was approaching him. "Nonononononono…" Mackenzie lunged forward to reach his cell phone to safeguard it and hit the red button to stop recording…

… just in time for the last frame to catch Judo's white back being slammed on top of Mackenzie's back fur… just as a heated Indy struck her in the face with her right fist.

---

Southern Stars High School*

Present day*

Restrooms*

The water somehow… emerges from the faucet with aggression.

A characteristic of the school's restroom that caught Mackenzie's attention when he used the sink for the first time three years ago.

But today, the water perfectly reflects what he felt at that moment.

His teeth grind. He grunts in anger under his breath as the water pours onto his hands, forming a cup to bring the water to his face to clean off the leftover cream from the pie that had hit him during the food fight moments earlier.

When the food fight was over, many students went to the restrooms and cleaned themselves up. The Terriers were fast and managed to secure a male restroom for the club, allowing Mackenzie, Rusty, Jack, Pretzel, Bingo, Winton, the Terriers, Banjo, Felix, Buddy, Juniper, Sadie, and Harley to clean themselves up before making their way to their next class.

"WE GOTTA BEAT HIS ASS NOW!" Jack shouts from behind Mackenzie, his voice cutting through the steady water drip from his soaked fur into the sink. The hum of running faucets fills the restroom, echoing around him.

"Jack…" Rusty says with a pleading voice

"I SAW HIM THROWING THAT GRAPE TO YOUR TEAMMATE!" Jack keeps shouting, "HE STARTED THE FOOD FIGHT!"

"Let's not be rash."

"RASH!?"

Mackenzie turned his head to his left at Sadie's shout. She was cleaning the food that had gotten on her with the sink water. "AREN'T YOU THE ONE THAT SAID YOU ALMOST BEAT UP A GUY FOR STEPPING IN YOUR STUPID LITTLE FIELD!?"

"Different situa-"

"IT'S A STUPID LITTLE FIELD, YOU FUCKING HYPOCRITE," Sadie shouts again before returning to face the sink and continue.

"RUSTY!" Jack shouts to get Rusty's attention, "IF WE DON'T STOP LOGAN HE IS GONNA KEEP THIS UP FOR THE REST OF THE YEAR."

"Jack is right," Banjo wisely says, as Felix stands beside him at the sink in the back of the restroom. "If we don't stop Logan and the Poski brothers, they'll bother us for the rest of the year and beyond."

"Listen, I understand." Rusty stands his ground with a soft tone of understanding. "I hate Logan as much as you all do, but we can't turn this school into a battleground. We've already gotten into so much trouble with Tommy."

"Ughhh"

Mackenzie raises his head and looks to the ceiling, annoyed.

It's been over a week since he spent time with Bluey at the cinema, and also to the fact that she told him she sees him as a friend, the following days were hard but expected. Cry himself to sleep, beating himself up figuratively about how useless he is and barely talking to his friends. At least until he got 'better' enough before the beginning of classes.

He was never an aggressive guy towards others. Still, it's only so far he can ignore Logan and the bullying that has been stuck with him for so long, especially after figuring out from Jack that he started the food fight and got him into the restroom covered in cream pie.

Combine Logan, plus Bluey telling him she sees him as a friend, and then.

You get a pissed off Border Collie.

He sighs and finally turns around to face Rusty, who is standing in the middle of the restroom.

"We gotta beat his ass" Mackenzie finally says determinately and with anger.

"WHAT?" Rusty shakes his head back, astonished as Jack looks at Mackenzie, nodding rapidly

"Friendly reminder," Winton makes his presence known from a wall he is leaning into with crossed arms. "Last time you were in a fight, you almost got killed."

Mackenzie unknowingly puts a hand around his neck as an imaginary sense of doom and pain appears there, but he answers to the bulldog immediately, "That's just HIM. We are talking about Logan; he won't get away from all of us."

"Yeah…" Pretzel talks, leaning against the wall next to the door. "But Bailey, Diamond, and the rest will protect him."

"...And whoever is sympathetic towards him," Harley spoke, also cleaning herself with the sink water next to Sadie.

"Yes…" Rusty speaks, "It's going to be a battleground, and I don't want to get you guys into that."

"What if…" Jack speaks up. "We do wanna get into that, huh?"

"Emmmm," Rusty looks away from Jack uncomfortably.

"Then Bluey is gonna rip your heart out!"

All the unoccupied dogs turn their heads to one of the stalls where Bingo's voice rang out, "I'm pretty sure she is gonna agree with Rusty and not have you guys get into a full-on brawl."

"So what are we going to do then?" Jack says, indignantly toward the stall. "We can't allow Logan to do what he wants to us!"

"We are gonna humiliate them!"

*Whoosh!*

The roar of the flushing toilet fills the restroom as Bingo finally steps out of the stall. Mackenzie and the other dogs look at her, confused and with bewildered expressions.

…

"What?" Bingo says, noticing everyone's expressions. "I just cleaned myself off and flushed down the tissues."

"You better," Felix quickly quips before looking back at the sink to continue cleaning himself.

"Oh, shut up, you pencil," Bingo quips back before turning her attention to Rusty and Jack.

"Ok…what are you planning, Bingo?" Jack says, leaning slightly towards Bingo with both hands on his hips

"So…We all wanna beat up Logan."

"Yes," Jack agrees

"But we don't wanna get into a huge brawl."

"Correct," Rusty agrees

"But we wanna hurt them."

"..." Mackenzie rotates his eyes to think before looking back at Bingo to say, "Yes."

"So…let's just, challenge Logan and his friends to a dodgeball game after school tomorrow." Bingo finally advises, arms lightly extended like a car vendor. "If we humiliate them all, they are not going to attempt anything else."

"Ummmm." Mackenzie, Rusty, and Jack put a hand under their mouths, thinking. Bingo's plan checkmarks all the things they want to accomplish against Logan, so after a few minutes of looking at each other to ensure they are on the same page, the three dogs finally nod affirmatively.

"Pretzel," Rusty calls him, turning to him. "Tell the terriers to locate Logan and his group and challenge him to a dodgeball game after school tomorrow. Knowing them, they won't back down."

"Sure thing, Cap." Pretzel shows his thumb up and exits through the door to talk to the Terriers, making guard outside.

Rusty, Jack, and Bingo look at each other affirmatively, as Mackenzie sighs and looks at himself in the mirror with a worrying gaze. His heart starts beating, and his hands and body unknowingly shake.

He suggested, alongside Jack, to hurt Logan.

That means he is gonna be fully involved in the dodgeball battle

Which means…This is going to be his first time actively hurting someone…Since the "Incident"

Tomorrow is going to be a long day…

---

The next day*

The sun's rays gradually envelop the school's outer walls and rooftops, infusing them with warmth and light, much like the buzz surrounding the dodgeball game.

As expected, Logan and his friends accept the challenge, and it doesn't take long for news to spread among the rest of the students, who spend the entire day debating whom to support. Some openly back Logan, while others subtly support the Glasshouse club.

RINGGGGGGGGG

But the speculations come to an end with the final bell. The students not involved in the drama make their way out of the school, while those more engaged head to the back field to witness "the showdown to end all showdowns."

Mackenzie walks out of the mathematics classroom, blending in with the rest of the class. He is the only club member in that specific class, but luckily for him, none of the bullies are there.

His stomach churns with nerves, anxiety, and anger; it is finally time to join his friends in the dodgeball battle to humiliate Logan and his group once and for all, hoping to put an end to the harassment that followed him and his friends all those years in high school.

As he makes his way through the halls, he is unexpectedly joined by Buddy and Jean-Luc, who position themselves on either side of him as he continues walking. Buddy glances briefly at Mackenzie before looking at Jean-Luc to ask, "Hey, are you going to see the dodgeball battle?"

"Nah," Jean-Luc replies in a friendly manner. "I'm going to hang out with the exchange students and Tommy. He said he's going to get pizza for us."

"Oh, that sounds delicious."

"Yeah, it's the perfect opportunity to meet them," Jean-Luc says with hope

"Well, have fun with them," Mackenzie says in a neutral tone. Trying to end the conversation

"And good luck in your battle," Jean-Luc wishes him with an air of camaraderie.

"Well, I've got to go study with Missy. See ya, guys," Buddy announces, peeling away from Mackenzie and Jean-Luc.

"See ya, Buddy/Bauddy," Mackenzie and Jean-Luc say goodbye as Buddy changes his course and heads to his meeting point with Missy.

After Buddy disappears in the sea of students, Jean-Luc finally announces with one fist up, "Im going to the principal's office. See you later, Mack."

Mackenzie comprehends what the lab wants to do and clasps his fist with him, a wordless sight of solidarity. "Yup, see you later, Luke."

With that, Jean-Luc turns on his heel and heads toward the principal's office, while Mackenzie continues on his path to the indoor court in silence. The weight of the upcoming dodgeball match is still on his shoulders and mind.

Walking to the court …to the battle zone, makes Mackenzie wander in his thoughts as his feet continue on autopilot.

No matter what he tells himself or believes, Mackenzie Māriri Border Collie was born to New Zealand parents in Wellington, surrounded by the Māori community. Although his family moved to Brisbane when he was 2, Mel and Fozzie still proudly embrace their Māori roots…

One of those roots…the Haka. A ceremonial dance used for special events, like weddings or graduations.

Or…Pre-battle ritual.

While growing up, Mackenzie was never really interested in his parents' Māori culture; instead, he learned and adopted Australian culture, like Bluey and the rest of his friends. He even took a few Kendo or racing classes to ignore his parents' culture, but he never managed to stay in those classes for long before returning to his video games in his room.

But somehow, without even wanting to, the lyrics of a haka song resounded in his head. Convincing him to keep walking towards the back of the school, feeling him up with courage and determination to throw himself into battle alongside his friends.

And with smacks of hands on the body and the stomps of the haka in his mind, Mackenzie let go and sing, whispering.

Ka mate, ka mate! Ka ora, ka ora

Ka mate, ka mate! Ka ora, ka ora

Tēnei te tangata pūhuruhuru

Nāna nei i tiki mai whakawhiti te rā

Ā, upane! ka upane!

Ā, upane, ka upane, whiti te rā!

Without paying attention to his surroundings, Mackenzie arrived at the indoor basketball court in the back of the school—a place usually reserved for PE classes, sports matches, or rainy day hangouts. But for this occasion, it was a battlefield.

A gathering of students of all breeds and sizes filled the bleachers and sidelines, buzzing with chatter before the showdown. Logan's group was clearly stationed on one side of the court in a tight huddle, while Mackenzie's friends were gathered on the opposite side, making final preparations.

Mackenzie weaved through the crowd, dodging dogs left and right until he finally reached the safety of his group. Jack was stretching his muscles alongside the terrier brothers, Banjo was shadow boxing to rile himself up, Harley sat cross-legged on the floor in silent meditation, and Judo was deep in conversation with Indy and Coco—the two girls she had once bullied but since made amends with. The three shared an embrace for good luck.

Rusty called out with authority, his voice echoing off the walls like a coach in a locker room. "Ok! So it will be Jack, Judo, Winton, Adam, Joe, Dan, Banjo, Felix, Jasper W, J, Harley, and Mack. The rest stay back and help if necessary!"

Everyone nodded, focused, and ready.

"ALRIGHT! LET'S GET THEM!"

"Yeah!"

"Let's go, team!"

"Time to win this!"

"Charge!"

"We've got this!"

The Glasshouse club surged forward across the polished wooden floor, moving as one unit toward the center court. Mackenzie followed just behind, his heart pounding like a drum, fists clenched—ready to receive pain and return it to his bullies.

"HOLD UP!"

Bluey suddenly burst through the group, stopping Mackenzie in his tracks with both hands on his shoulders. "What do you think you're doing!?" she demanded, a mix of anger and disbelief in her voice.

"Ending this," Mackenzie said stiffly, body tense.

"In a dodgeball battle!?" Bluey shot back, confused and frustrated, tightening her grip. "You're gonna get hurt! It won't change anything."

"Then at least it'll send the message," Mackenzie replied, unshaken.

"This is not worth it, Mackenzie," Bluey pleaded, her urgency growing. "I don't want to see you get hurt."

"Diamond is in, participating."

Bluey's eyes widened at the mention of her archrival. Her mouth opened as if to argue, then shut in bitter frustration. "Son of a—ughhh…"

She sighed deeply, releasing Mackenzie's shoulders before stepping beside him to join the others heading toward the court.

Together, Mackenzie, Bluey, and their friends arrived at center court, stopping behind a line of red and blue dodgeballs waiting for war. Logan's group approached from the opposite side, lining up to face them—13 students squaring off against 13. Students in the bleachers leaned in, some whispering, others recording the moment with their phones. The tension in the gym was thick and electric.

Off to the side near the scorer's table, Lucky and Chucky sat with headphones on, preparing themselves at a makeshift commentary station with a phone acting as their recorder.

"Alright," Chucky said as he adjusted his headset. "This is gonna be awesome."

"Mmhmm," Lucky hummed without enthusiasm, his expression low but his focus firm for the dream he chased.

In front of them, a female Black Labrador with white patches on her face and chest raised a whistle to her mouth and blew sharply.

Fweeeeeet!

The sharp sound echoed through the gym, cutting through the crowd noise and drawing all attention to her.

"Alright, everyone, listen up!" she called, lowering the whistle and scanning the court. "We're playing dodgeball today, and I want a clean, fair game. Here are the rules!"

"Each team starts with three balls in the center. When I blow the whistle again, you rush forward to grab them. Hit someone, they're out. Catch a ball, the thrower's out and you get to bring one teammate back in."

"Dodging, jumping, and rolling? All fair game. But step out of bounds, and you're out."

"Got it!?"

"Yeah!"

"Sure!"

"Let's do this!"

Both groups responded in sync, nodding with fierce resolve. The Labrador sighed, glanced at both sides, then raised the whistle again.

The thirteen representatives of the Glasshouse club crouched into position, feet ready to explode off the floor, eyes locked forward. Mackenzie's heart pounded with each breath, the glossy court reflecting the intensity written on every face.

With tension soaring and the crowd dead quiet…

No one noticed the silver sedan pulling up just outside the gym's emergency exit doors…

---

School offices*

The lights on the ceiling perfectly illuminate the room of the front desk, only the presses of the keyboard sounding off.

Tommy the Chinook was leaning forward and behind one of his front desk employees, checking some documentation on the computer. He is wearing his typical principal suit and tie, long casual black pants, and a walkie-talkie on his belt.

As he and the assistant's hands were glued to the computer.

The door of the office swings open, allowing an adult Dingo colour shadow to go in awkwardly, holding three pizza boxes with both hands, two big ones and one smaller one.

Tommy raises his gaze and notices the Dingo approaching him, "Hey! The hero of the hour!"

The Dingo finally puts the pizza boxes on top of the counter and says, "Tommy Chinook?" to which Tommy responds with nods, "Here are your pizzas."

"Awesome mate." Tommy puts his hands under the pile of boxes and drags it out of the desk to hold it. Tommy turns his body around to prepare to walk off, but his eyes land on the Dingo, and in a split second, he recognizes him. "Hey…You are the Dingo who always delivers here, what was your name again?"

"Alfie," The adult Dingo answers proudly.

"Well, Thanks again, Alfie. I will make sure to put an extra tip in the app."

"Don't worry, im just doing my job," Alfie says humbly.

"Well, see ya next time, Alfie." Tommy, farewell, starting to walk deeper into the office

"See ya Tommy," Alfie said, turning around to walk out the door and back to his grey sedan.

Tommy makes his way through the small hall of the office, passing by small rooms used for office work like accounting or managing the school, all while the smell of pizza reaches his nostrils, making him walk faster.

The yellow Chinook finally arrived at his office, and with his feet, he knocks on the door three times. It didn't take long for Alice to open the door to let the principal in

"Pizza is here," Tommy announces as he steps in.

"HOORAY!" scattered around the principal's office, Jean-Luc, Sebastian, Dalilah, and Kolina celebrate with extended arms, as Tommy leaves the boxes on his desk.

"Alright, what do we got here?" The Swedish girl, Kolina, steps towards the desk and opens the small pizza on top of the two pizza boxes…only to find something disgusting for her "HEY! Who got pineapple pizza!?"

…

…

…

Alice and Jean-Luc turned around, facing away from Kolina with guilty faces.

"Jävla kanadensare" Kolina with a discusting frown on her face

"Hey, at least it's just one small pizza for them," Tommy says as he moves the small pizza aside to open one of the big pizzas with pepperoni. "We've got all this for ourselves."

"Pff" Kolina blew a quick raspberry before picking a slice of pepperoni pizza. "I can let this paganism go for just today."

---

School indoor basketball court*

"Everyone ready?"

The black and white Labrador referee shouts, both teams ready to start, she nervously moves her hand with the whistle near her mouth.

The whistle hangs in the air, frozen, like the last breath before a storm.

Fweeeeeeeeeeeeeeeet!

"AND THEY'RE OFF!" Chucky's voice explodes through his headset, nearly jumping out of his seat. "WE ARE UNDERWAY!"

"The Glasshouse Club and Logan's crew waste no time charging in," Lucky adds, his voice calmer, but his tone sharp and focused. "Look at that explosion off the line! Banjo and Felix sprint like rockets, diving into the center court and snatching the first dodgeballs with wild energy."

"BANJO'S GOT ONE! FELIX TOO!" Chucky shouts. "AND—OOOH—JASPER J SLID STRAIGHT INTO A BALL, BUT ALSO A KNEE TO THE FACE—WE'RE GOOD, HE'S GOOD, HE'S BACK UP!"

"Looks like Logan's team is sticking to a loose formation," Lucky notes. "Smart move. Bailey and the Poski twins are watching the field like hawks."

"Meanwhile, Harley just matrixed under a flying ball from Derek!" Chucky cackles. "I swear she's levitating out here!"

"Joe from the Terriers fires—BOOM!—and he nails Chad right in the chest! That's one out for Logan's crew!"

"AND HERE COMES DAN—HE'S WIIIIINDING UP—BIG THROW—WHOA!" Chucky yells. "THAT'S A DODGEBALL CANNON!"

"Too wide," Lucky says calmly, arms crossed. "Missed by an inch. Should've aimed lower."

Back on the court, the crowd roars as Winton dives to catch a ball—but it bounces off his paws and skids away.

"Close, Winton, CLOSE," Chucky groans. "Almost had a game-changer there."

"No one from the core four is out yet," Lucky mutters, eyes flicking between the chaos. "Bluey's hanging back, reading the field. Rusty's centered, protecting the flanks. Bailey's commanding her side with sharp calls. Logan… just smirked."

"Oh, I hate that smirk," Chucky spits, slapping the desk lightly. "It's like he thinks he's in a movie."

"Both teams are testing the waters," Lucky says. "Fast pace, but no one's gotten reckless yet. They're saving their aces for later."

"AND SPEAKING OF ACES—JUDO JUST CAUGHT A BALL FROM BLAINE!" Chucky cheers, practically vibrating in his seat. "AND THAT MEANS—ADAM'S BACK IN, BABY!"

"Momentum shift," Lucky says, finally cracking a grin. "Glasshouse is building heat."

The students in the bleachers erupt into chants and cheers, waving their arms, screaming names—phones are out, the recording lights glow.

"OOH! AND THERE GOES SADIE—HEADSHOT BY MILES! SHE'S OUT!" Chucky yells with sympathy. "That's one less for the Glasshouse Club!"

"She'll walk it off," Lucky says. "Sadie's taken harder hits from the vending machine."

"THE COURT IS A WARZONE, LUCKY!"

"Yeah," Lucky nods slowly. "But Bluey, Rusty, Bailey, and Logan are not moving yet. They're waiting."

"Oh-ho-ho," Chucky leans forward, wide-eyed. "And when they do…"

"Then it won't be dodgeball," Lucky says with an edge in his voice. "It'll be war."

---

Principal offices*

"Sooo"

Jean-Luc speaks up, holding a small slice of pineapple pizza while sitting on a chair in the corner of the room. "You guys met each other in Dubai before coming here?"

"Yeah, yeah, pretty much." All three exchange students agree and nod, each holding a pizza slice.

"You should've seen Kolina's face when I first met her. She was looking at a menu in Arabic, trying to understand it," Sebastian tells.

"It was a long flight from Stockholm," Kolina recalls, covering her face with her other hand. "And the food on the plane wasn't that good, so I was really itching for something good. I just rushed to the first restaurant I found."

"Same thing with me," Sebastian starts to explain. "I was really hungry when my plane landed, and because I was in Dubai, I really wanted to eat a döner."

"Shawarma," Dalilah interrupts.

"Shawarma, yeah," Sebastián and Kolina say simultaneously. Snapping their head to Dalilha

"I really wanted a shawarma," Sebastián says while glancing sideways at Dalilah, who looks away from him with sass before looking back at Jean-Luc. "So I walked to that restaurant and found Kolina there. Of course, I didn't know she was one of the girls who would go to this school, but I knew she was an exchange student."

"So why did you stand next to me?" Kolina remarks, eliciting wide eyes from Jean-Luc and Alice.

"Because…" Sebastian awkwardly looks away while trying to come up with an answer. "...I wanted to meet new people, and seeing your Swedish flag patch on your backpack really sparked my interest."

"Huh?" Kolina asks, looking at Sebastian with a confused expression before saying "Okay," and taking another bite of her pizza.

"So what happens next?" Alice asks, picking up another slice of pineapple pizza.

"I came into the picture," Dalilah happily adds, grabbing a slice of cheese pizza. "I also wanted to eat something after my flight, so I walked to the restaurant and found them looking at the menu. I knew they needed help, and since they were from Europe, I started speaking to them."

"When we started talking," Kolina shares, swinging her slice side to side, "It was really awkward to understand each other, but Dalilah helped us order shawarmas. It was when we sat down to eat that we figured out we were going to the same school in Australia."

"Huh," Tommy interjects while holding a pepperoni pizza near his mouth, "What a coincidence."

"But," Alice says, "Why didn't you guys use your cell phones to translate? I suppose it could have been easier than just looking at the menu."

Sebastian, Dalilah, Kolina, Tommy, and Jean-Luc turn their gazes toward Alice with insulted, lost looks.

"Wow," Jean-Luc says sarcastically. "That is the most intelligent thing I've ever heard in my life from the most beautiful and intelligent being on this planet."

"Thank you!" Alice closes her eyes and leans her head to the side with a starry aura

"You dumb disgusting broad"

Alice snap her eyes open towards Jean-Luc and quickly retorted "Give your balls a tug, you simple minded fuck"

"Hey, hey, hey, hey," Dalilah quickly interrupts Alice and Jean-Luc. "Please, both of you… Words are powerful—don't use them to wound. We are friends, yes?

"Oh," Jean-Luc's eyes widen as he tries to explain himself. "This is how we show love."

"Love?" Dalilah reacts, confused.

"Yeah," Jean-Luc shifts his determined gaze to the Eskimo. "Alice!"

"!"

"We are teammates, we are brothers," Jean-Luc leans towards Alice, "I would go to the wall for you."

"Yeah"

"Are you my sister?"

"I'm your sister."

"Would you go to the wall for me?"

"I would go to the wall for you."

"Then," Jean-Luc turns to Dalilah. "She is allowed to call me a-"

---

"Fucking piece of- OUW"

A ball struck Jack right in his head as he was crawling over the polished floor of the court, knocking him out cold,

"JACK IS OUT!" Chucky shouts from the commentator's table. "That was a nasty hit from Stan."

"Cmon!" Sadie and Bentley quickly rushed to Jack to drag his immobile body out of the way.

The two girls grunt with effort behind Mackenzie, who holds a ball in his hand and twitches his head in alertness, looking for an opportunity to throw as more of his friends around him throw their balls or get struck by a ball.

Mackenzie finally finds his chance, a banseji wearing an orange hoodie, and throws the ball at him, hitting him right in the face and knocking him out cold.

"Ah!" a Border collie beside the Basenji interjects, "They got Kenny!"

"You bastards!" a male Shiba inu exclaims, but both he and his border Collie friend got hit by two more balls.

Mackenzie unfocused, realizing it was Bluey and Rusty who got Stan and Kyle out. They both look at each other and give an approving nod.

"LOOK OUT!"

Chloe shouts from the sidelines.

But it was too late. A ball hits Bluey right on the shoulder, getting her out.

"HAHAHA!" Diamond mocks from the other side, pointing at her.

"Oh, you were just lucky, you bitch!" Bluey retorts as she walks to the sideline, leaving Mackenzie, Rusty, Bailey, Diamond, and Logan on the court.

"Next time pay attention, you stupid bitch!" Diamond deprecates with one palm next to her mouth as a loudspeaker

"And then there were five," Lucky comments in awe, anxious about what's coming.

"This cannot be good," Chucky comments excitedly, holding one of Lucky's arms. "Who am I kidding? This is absolutely gonna be good for us."

Rusty quickly grabs the ball that got Bluey out and aims it towards one of the dogs. Diamond and Logan quickly notice him and start making erratic moves to throw off Rusty's aim.

After going through many students, Bingo finally shows up on the sidelines, she notices Rusty and Diamond, and screams. "FINISH HER FUCKING HER THE FUCK OFF"

"Language, please." Rusty school her, still aiming towards Diamond and Logan.

"SUCK A COOK!" Bingo shouts

"OW"

Without noticing, Diamond got a ball off the floor and threw it towards Rusty, hitting him in the face and getting him out of the game.

"Ohhhhhhhh," the students on the sideline react.

"Now there are only four." Lucky dropped his head, defeated

"It was nice meeting you, Mack." Chucky makes an awkward expression as he plays with the cord of his headset

Mackenzie, the only dog on his side of the court, stands wide awake and alert at the one versus three situation.

In one situation, it is likely he is not going to get out of there without a ball to his face.

---

Principal's office*

"So what about you, Jean-Luc?" Kolina asks, eating the crust of her second

slice. "How was your trip to get here?"

"It was…" Jean-Luc answers, holding a cup of soda in his hand, he tilts it side to side, thinking of an answer. "Ok…I barely talked to anybody on my way here."

"And my sister?" Alice says with a deadpan frown on her face.

"She was, as expected," Jean-Luc speaks in a sarcastic, light tone, "being the boring old woman."

"Obviously." Alice takes another slice of pizza to her mouth.

"Here's something I don't get," Tommy says, half sitting on the principal's desk and looking at Jean-Luc."If you were such a good hockey player in Canada, why be an exchange student at this stage of your career?"

"Cause I always wanted to be one," Jean-Luc answers, a glaring shine in his eyes. "Me, being good at hockey was something else; even I dare say I'm 'decent' at hockey."

"What do you mean by 'decent'?" Alice asks, her face scrunched in confusion. "There's a reason people call you 'Quebec's Railgun' or 'The Lord of St. John. '"

"That's irrelevant," Jean-Luc interrupts Alice. "I'm just…a decent hockey player."

Alice, Tommy, Sebastian, Kolina, and Dalila look at each other with side eyes, a silent understanding of not believing a word Jean-Luc is saying.

"Sureeeeeeeeeeee" All five dogs say at the same time, causing Jean-Luc to frown at them.

"Okay, so," Sebastian takes the initiative. "Why become an exchange student? Why did you want to be one so badly? "

"Because…" Jean-Luc glanced away from Sebastian, thinking, until he finally replied, "I have been to this city before, and I really like it; I wanted to return as an exchange student cuz the tickets from Quebec to Brisbane aren't really cheap."

"Huh? Makes sense," Sebastian dismissed

"What about your friend?" Alice asks out of nowhere, looking around the room," What was her name?... Bluey?"

"Huh!?" Tommy and the exchange students snap their eyes towards Jean-Luc

"Bluey?" Tommy questions, surprised, "Bluey Christine Heeler?"

"Wow! Look at you, Romeo," Sebastian jokes

"Uuuuuuu, this year just got interesting," Kolina also jokes.

"C'mon, guys," Jean-Luc rolls his eyes to the ceiling, annoyed, "Bluey and I are nothing."

"Are you sure about that?" Alice queries, squinting one eyebrow towards Jean-Luc

"Huh?" Jean-Luc leans his head to the side

"You quite literally cross the ocean for her, and yet you say you don't feel anything for her?"

"Because that's the truth," Jean-Luc says determinedly.

"A very flawed truth," Alice keeps on the pressure. "I called you at Southern Stars to set up the classes two days after you landed, and what was the first thing you told me?"

"..." Jean-Luc maintains a serious frown on Alice, as she keeps talking.

"You found her…You care so much about her that you found her in less than two days. Don't you dare say you don't have feelings for her."

"Yeah…" Kolina awkwardly contributes to the conversation. "Guys don't go over an ocean to search for someone they are not in love with."

"I, I, I, I'm not." Jean-Luc stuttered, succumbing to the pressure of being interrogated about Bluey. "I don't, li-like Bluey"

"Sure," Alice rolls her eyes away from Jean-Luc. "continue à te dire que"

"Principal Thompson? Principal Thompson, are you there?"

A female voice sounded off from Tommy's walkie-talkie. He grabs it from his belt and speaks through it.

"Charlotte, Thompson here, what's up?"

---

School basketball court*

The Border Collie, standing alert with bent knees, faces Diamond, Logan, and Bailey. Diamond, the number one bully of Bluey and Bingo, Logan, his bully ever since he entered middle school many years ago; and Bailey, the one orchestrating the strings of hate.

"Wow," Logan stops being alert to stand straight, without a worry in the world for Mackenzie, "The Border Collie with a girl's name, the pathetic, good for nothing Mackenzie."

"Yeah…" Diamond mimics Logan, also totally not worried about Mackenzie "The useless Collie that has nothing going on"

"Tell us, little bro," Logan leans his upper body forward towards Mackenzie."Have you been going to your Kendo classes? Huh? Your racing classes even? Have you been doing something productive?"

"Hey, hey." Bailey taps Logan's shoulder slightly. "I know what he was doing."

"What is it?"

"He was busy rubbing himself on his bed the entire summer." Bailey mocks, pointing at him at the verge of laughter, "Wishing he could have a girlfriend one day while watching the hot Heeler of the moment on his cellphone."

"Ohhhhhh," Logan leans his upper body back, on the verge of laughing. "Yeah, that's right, you are such a loser, Mackenzie. You can't do anything meaningful, hahahahaha."

Mackenzie just stands there, receiving the verbal bullying on his feet, hearing Logan, Diamond, Bailey, and many students on the sidelines laughing at him.

"Maybe…" Mackenzie thinks, still with a determined face, "They are right, I have nothing going on, nothing to make me stand out, no sense of drive, of competitiveness, and I haven't confessed to Bluey."

"But…"

Mackenzie's head moves slowly, to allow the corner of his eyes to look at Bluey, her blue fur standing out between the students, like a beacon calling him. Her face is one of worry, highlighting her among the students laughing at him.

The sound of mockery muffles, and Mackenzie only focuses on Bluey's face, expressing her importance to him.

It didn't matter to Mackenzie that the whole school mocked him.

Despite not being a cricket player like Rusty, or conducting his orchestra like Honey, or not being a karateka like Bluey

As long as he has Bluey. His childhood crush and best friend. And all his friends from Glasshouse.

He will be Mackenzie Māriri Border Collie.

The fluffy Border Collie with family from New Zealand.

"I gotta fight, I gotta do this for her… for her and my friends"

Mackenzie feels his blood running fast, the blood of his ancestors Māori, the ones who lived and died in Aotearoa, way before his parents were born.

He feels the duty of his bloodline drugging him, of taking care of his loved ones, of standing fearless against the odds.

His palms shake, not out of fear, but out of power.

He unknowingly stomps his right foot, a way to show he is present.

He sticks his tongue out and widens his eyes, showing a total lack of fear.

The crowd's laughter still echoes, but it no longer reaches Mackenzie's ears.

His heart beat like the drums from his ancestors.

He feels it

The stirring of something ancient.

Something unshakable.

The blood of warriors.

The guardians of Aotearoa.

Stirs within him.

His breathing slows. Not from fear. From focus.

He finally plants his feet with force, generating a powerful stomp that resounded in the court.

"E kore ahau e wehi! Ka tu ahau mo toku whanau!"

Mackenzie shouts in Maori, cutting through the laughter like a blade, putting his right arm over his forehead and his left arm under his mouth.

The air shifts from the joke to the seriousness. Right before Mackenzie shouts, resounding in the court.

"Ka mate! Ka mate! Ka ora! Ka ora!"

His arms swing in rhythm, slapping his chest, his thighs, stomping. Every move is deliberate. Every word is filled with ancient wisdom.

The students on the sideline stare, stunned. Diamond and Bailey blink and look at each other from the corner of their eyes, unsure. Logan just stands straight, with a slight smirk on his face.

Mackenzie's eyes blaze.

Not with hate.

But with mana.

"Ka mate! Ka mate! Ka ora! Ka ora!"

"Tēnei te tangata pūhuruhuru"

"Nāna i tiki mai whakawhiti te rā!"

He glares straight at the bullies, his tongue out, his eyes wide, unblinking. Without showing a drop of fear

"Ā upane! Ka upane! Whiti te rā!"

"Let's finish this," Logan says after Mackenzie is done, quickly picking up a ball from the floor and throwing it towards him.

But the Border Collie, with his blood boiling from duty, notices Logan and the ball coming right at him. He quickly catches the ball with impeccable timing, and as swiftly as he saw it, he throws it back…

Hitting Diamond right in her head.

"Ohhhhh." The student witnesses react in pain

"EAT SHIT, DIAMOND!" Bingo shouts from the sideline, clearly displaying her hatred towards the light blue Heeler

Back in the court

"You are paying for that!" Bailey quickly reaches for a ball and throws it towards Mackenzie,

But the ball is thrown way too slow, allowing Mackenzie to catch it and throw it back to Bailey with force, hitting her right in her chest.

"Owwwwww" Some students react in pain.

"Ohhhhhhhh!" Some students react in awe

"IT'S ALL DOWN TO THIS," Chucky shouts, practically standing up from his seat and a hand on her earpiece, "LOGAN VERSUS MACK, A 1V1 THAT WILL RESOUND IN THE AGES TO COME."

"Cmon, Mack, cmon," Lucky murmurs with both hands together and leaning forward to the point his elbows are on the table

Now it was only Mackenzie facing off against Logan, the Dalmatian-Great Dane mix, who tormented him all these years.

The chance of finishing the bullying nightmare right in front of him

As if a gentleman's agreement had been reached in silence, Mackenzie and Logan slowly go for a ball to step forward and face each other. A mere 3 meters of distance

Mackenzie and Logan quench their ball, their eyes locked on each other, the whole court is silent, waiting for either dog to make the first move.

"You know…" Logan breaks the silence with determination, still firmly holding his ball, "Even if you win, you will still be the same loser, good for nothing."

"I heard that so many times before…" Mackenzie speaks, still looking at Logan straight in his eyes, "It doesn't even faze me anymore…"

Logan twitches his face, his frown being more predominant.

"It doesn't matter what you say anymore," Mackenzie continues to speak with determination."You're not as important as you think you are."

Logan frowns even more, to the point he is showing his teeth.

"Are you sure?" Mackenzie continued, "You are not the loser, good for nothing, you always talk about"

Logan grinds his teeth harder.

His growl is more noticeable.

His grip on the ball tightened.

And then…

Snap

"You little SHIT"

Logan, in a quick motion, throws the ball to hit Mackenzie.

But he was ready.

With a quick, smug step to the side, the ball goes past his body, bouncing on the floor behind him to finally hit the wall.

Logan's eyes snap open when he figures out what he has done.

Now. Mackenzie has the ball ready to throw.

And doesn't waste time throwing it to hit Logan.

Logan just turns around quickly to protect his face and chest…Allowing the ball to hit him on the back of his shoulder.

Fweeeeeeeeeeeeeeeet*

"Glasshouse wins!"

The black and white Labrador referee announces, causing the court to explode in cheers.

"Whooohooooo!"

"Yesssss!"

"Did you see that throw?!"

"Logan got wrecked!"

"MACKENZIE GOT LOGAN, MACKENZIE GOT LOGAN!" Chucky freaks out behind the commentator's table as Lucky leans back on his chair in relief.

Mackenzie, with eyes wide open after eliminating Diamond, Bailey, and Logan and with his blood pumping with celebration, turns to his friends on the sideline, raises his arms, and swings them down to scream "YEAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH"

From the sideline, Bluey is the first to sprint past the white line to run and clash against Mackenzie to hug him, as the rest of their friends also make their way to him to celebrate.

Mackenzie gladly hugs Bluey back tighter, feeling the familiar warmth of her fur that comforts him in his most desperate times. That after everything he had been through, he would always have Bluey's back and she would have his back.

A situation that came out time and time again over the last 11 years.

And yet, even after countless times of him telling her he sees her as a friend and her telling him she sees him as a friend

His belief is as strong as ever.

He likes Bluey.

And he will not stop until they are finally together like a perfect fairytale story.

"Wow!" Diamond exclaimed, standing next to Bailey, checking on Logan on the court. "Sure, you guys can have this one, Mackenzie. Have fun with the loser of Bluey and the hoe of Bingo."

Mackenzie feels Bluey's fur shiver in his paw. Bluey gently pushes him out of her personal space and turns her head to look at Diamond to say coldly, "What did you say about Bingo?"

Bluey's cold, threatening voice makes his friends stop celebrating around Mackenzie to look at Bluey and Diamond with worried faces, totally expecting what's about to happen next.

"Bluey, don't," Bingo moves closer to her sister and places a hand on her shoulder to convince her to stop.

"You heard me." Diamond shrugs her shoulders with indifference

"No, no," Bluey shakes Bingo's hand off her shoulder and sprints with long strides toward Diamond, clenching her fists. "Say that again, bitch, SAY THAT AGAIN!"

"BLUEY NO!" Bingo shouts as she and Mackenzie hopelessly see Bluey running to Diamond

Diamond leans forward with a mocking face to shout, " YOUR SISTER IS A HOE-"

"OW!"

Bluey's running clenched fist landed right on Diamond's right eye.

Due to inertia, Bluey runs past Diamond, who is pushed back by the punch as she falls to the floor. Bluey immediately stops and turns, quickly dropping to pursue Diamond, falling to the ground with one clenched fist raised.

Bailey quickly falls too and hugs Bluey from her belly to separate her from Diamond. Logan also falls and tries to hold Bluey's hands.

And then another one of Logan's friends joined.

And another one

And another one

Creating a fur ball to try and stop Bluey from harming Diamond anymore.

As fast as Bluey charged at Diamond, Bingo, Rusty, Jack, Judo, Chloe, every single one of Bluey's friends- including Lucky, who took off his headset to help- rushed toward the furball to protect her and manage the situation.

The blood running through Mackenzie's blood was no longer of extasis and celebration; it was charged with an unwavering duty to protect Bluey and get her out of there.

So he charged…without thinking twice.

The world around him turned into a blur. His vision flickered too much to notice anything in detail.

He slams his body against one of Logan's friends on top of the fur ball.

He tightly grabs the fur of another dog to pull him out of there.

He feels someone else's paws on his fur to pull him away, but he counterreacts to stay in the fray.

The world around Mackenzie is a pandemonium of different fur colours, swear words, grunts, and pleading from his friends, along with those of Logan and Diamond, with both heelers at the bottom of the pileup with Bluey trying to land more punches on Diamond.

As Mackenzie was deep into the furball.

"{ENOUGH}"

The authoritative shout of Tommy rings out from a megaphone as two more teachers stand beside him, halting the pandemonium. All the dogs stop and look back at Tommy with frightened expressions and drooping ears as they slowly withdraw from the pileup, each teenager leaving with messed up furs from the tussle and slowly revealing the multicolored set of strings of fur left on the floor from all the pulling.

The student left to the point that Mackenzie and Bingo were holding Bluey from behind, while Logan and Bailey also held Diamond from behind, with a noticeable purple hue around her right eye. All six dogs with their fur also made a mess with strings going out in different directions and panting due to the effort.

"You and you" Tommy angrily points at both Heelers with his megaphone. "Office-" He brings to his mouth to shout "{NOW!}"

Bluey and Diamond forcefully shake their shoulders to remove Mackeznie, Bingo, Logan, and Bailey's hands to stand up with difficulty and join Tommy and the two teachers.

As Mackenzie remains on the floor with his fur in disarray, he observes the teachers escorting Bluey and Diamond out of the court, while more teachers make their presence known to disperse the students. The blood in his veins relaxes as the heat of competition and violence dissipates. He stands up and helps Bingo to his feet, allowing both of them to use their hands to adjust their furs.

"I already told Bluey countless times not to fight Diamond if she says those things," Bingo vents to Mackenzie as she passes her right hand over the fur of her other hand.

"Hate is a powerful thing, Bingo," Mackenzie wisely says, accommodating his fur on his chest, "Even Bluey can't help it sometimes."

Outside the court in the hallways, Alice, Sebastian, Dalilah, Kolina, and Jean-Luc watch as Tommy and the two teachers escort Bluey and Diamond to the principal's office. Jean-Luc quickly noticed Diamond's purple eyes, and Bluey basically unscathed. His eyes jump and put one hand over his mouth to laugh at the absurdity of Bluey getting into a fight and winning, then saying muffley in joke.

"Bluey Heeler, Diamond Heeler, five minutes each, for fighting"

Notes:

AFTER 7 YEARS (It was only two months) WE GOT A NEW CHAPTER

Apologies so freaking much about the wait, lots of personal stuff happened and i keep getting into other projects and yap and i get moments of laziness

You know… the typical.

THEM REFERANCES BABY!!

Mackenzie's full name:

Mariri means “fluffy” in Maori.

Tane means “Man” in Maori.

“RASH!?”: Adam Warlock from the Guardians of the Galaxy…nuff said

Kyle, Stan, Kenny: South park…nuff said

Whatever Bingo said to Rusty, it's THE SECOND DEADPOOL REFERENCE BY BINGO IN THIS STORY. HAHAHAHA

“We are teammates, we are brothers”: second Shoresy reference in the story

Mack’s Haka: Called “Ka Mate” and its used by the all blacks and sung by Maori lawmakers last years in protest

Well, I better get back to writing, so see ya next time.

Chapter 18: Honest Conversation

Notes:

Did anyone remember i said i would focus on this story last month…Yeah i got the AO3 author’s curse.

Personal situation was ugly last month, there was a lot of times i was super demotivated to write but after one month and a half, we finally have a new chapter.

Also one more thing: This chapter is going near the border of spoiler for "You are not alone" so beware of that.

Enjoy

Plain white

The fabric of the soft couch beneath her embraces her while she sees nothing but plain white.

Her mind is a chaotic mix of chemicals, a cocktail of hormones that turns her into a loose cannon, forcing her face up to meet the plain white.

A color so calming, yet it can be shaped by many things.

Plain white…

"Tell me"

Beside her, her younger self, who is 7 years old, is sitting on a comfy chair, with a pair of reading glasses and a clipboard in her hands. "What have you been feeling lately?"

"Emmm," The teenager sounds off, looking at the plain white ceiling above her. "I don't know exactly."

"Ummmm," the little girl writes on her clipboard, "Interesting."

"There is so…much…stuff…to think about," The teenager softly says, with an empty yet understanding expression on her face, "I don't know what to think about exactly."

"Ummmm." The girl keeps writing until she throws the pen behind her and saves the clipboard. "Ok, let's do this, I'm gonna show you a photo, and I want you to solely focus on the picture and tell me the first thing you think about this photo."

"Okay…" the teenager nervously says, still staring at the plain white ceiling, trying to stay calm and collected.

She waited for a few seconds until a photo came into her field of view right in front of her, a photo of Mackenzie moments earlier performing the haka in front of Logan, Diamond, and Bailey. Without giving too much thought, the teenager gushed out, "He is sooooooo, awesome."

"Ok," the girl pulls back the photo and extends a different photo, this time, of Jean-Luc standing on the cafeteria table, with a megaphone in hand, shouting to her bullies.

"He is soooooooo incredible," the teenager gushes out again.

"Okay…" The girl pulls back the photo and instead extends both hands towards the front of the teenager to show two photos, one of Mackenzie and one of Jean-Luc. "What do you think now?"

"Awwwww." The teenager grabs both photos to put them together in her chest and starts kicking her feet in the air out of happiness. "They are so cute!"

"This…is not helping." The girl looks down, defeated.

"They are so amazing, I really wanna hug them and talk to them and kiss them, but…" The teenager moved both photos out of her chest to look at them with a sad expression. "I can only choose one."

"Ummmmmmmmmm," The girl thinks with a hand on her mouth. "Why choose one when you can have them both?"

"BECAUSE!" the teenager snaps at the girl, but after seeing the face of fear on her, the teenager takes a deep breath before talking again calmly. "Thats not possible, I can only choose one."

"But if you can only choose one…" the little girl wonders."Then that means"

"It means…" The teenager looks up again. "That the other one will leave, and I, I, I don't wanna lose Mackenzie and Jean-Luc."

"Umm, but what about just being friends with them? That way, you are not going to lose both of them," The girl suggests

"Could be…but it's only so far I can have both of them as friends" the teenager talks with a lost look on her face "I wanna have a family, a partner to spend my life with. and I feel like none of that is going to be possible if I have a feeling for both of them"

"What if…Just find someone else rather than choosing one?"

"Worse, I'm gonna be losing both…" The teenager heavily sighs and then says without hope, "I don't know what to do." The teenager covers her eyes and sobs hopelessly. "Why did I see Mackenzie as Jean-Luc on that date!?"

"Ummmmmmm. Well, there is only so much I can do for you in this session, but I think I know who else can help you."

"huh?" The teenager uncovers her eyes and slightly turns her head to the kid

"Someone who could also understand you, someone of our blood"

…

…

…

"Our sister"

---

Southern Stars High School*

A string of saliva made the connection between her mouth and the table beneath her, Bluey ruggedly opens her eyes and feel the pain of using her arms as pillows, she raises up, the illumination of the empty classroom crashing against her, her messed up fur from the fight and her disorientation, she looks around to paint herself the picture of the situation she was in.

She notices an old female German shepherd with reading glasses sitting by her desk typing on her laptop next to a white board that only says "DETENCION", she is the feared professor Holden, a teacher she knew from her first days in middle school 6 years ago and the one she got into so many troubles with for not paying attention or participating in some tomfooleries.

After noticing Holden, she looks around the bare classroom, after a quick look at the other side of the classroom far from her, she notices her arch rival, the heeler she is not afraid to hate, Diamond, looking down at her book, writing notes, probably doing her homework while sobbing in her right eye with a noticeable purple hue around it.

Bluey smirks in pride at the damaged she caused to her moments ago in the aftermath of the dodgeball battle, "I really wanted to send you to the hospital, break your legs, disfigured your ugly face, you fucking bitch" Bluey thinks while griding her teeth.

Bluey has always been kind to others since everyone had memories, always helping her parents and sister, always helping her friends with homework, always being that shoulder to cry on, always being the kind blue heeler everyone loves and knows about.

But Diamond?

She hates her.

She might be able to spend time together in the same room as right now, sure, Diamond can call her every single insult in the world, but saying something about Bingo? She wouldn't say no to anchor at least one punch to her.

She would sometimes hope she would say something about Bingo to have an excuse to break her teeth.

She would sometimes fantasize about the ending of that video game of the two girls fighting on the beach, putting herself and Diamond in that situation.

In fact…despite being sad about seeing Diamond in Captain Burke Park while spending time with Jean-Luc, one dark part of her wished to run back to her and punch the ice cream hat out of her..

She listened to her sister's plea during the summer of not making a scene whenever Diamond had something to say about her in high school.

But honestly…She doesn't care.

Diamond still needed to pay for what she had done to Bingo all the way back to Bingo's first year in Southern Stars Middle School, three years ago.

She will never…Forget.

She will always try to fight her.

Despite Principal Tommy's pleas to her moments ago.

---

Principal's office*

Tic*

Tak*

Tic*

Tak*

Tic*

Tak*

The sound of the old clock on the wall pierces the ears.

Tic*

Tak*

Tic*

Tak*

One pissed off Chinook sits in front of the principal's desk as one tick off Eskimo sits in the corner of the room.

Tic*

Tak*

Tic*

Tak*

Bluey and Diamond sit on the other side of their desk, their fur a mess from the fight and anger lingering on their faces, while Diamond holds a bag of ice to her eye where she was struck.

Bandit and Chilli stood behind their daughter, just as Diamond's parents stood behind her. Her father is a white and grey Heeler, while her mother is a light blue Heeler, just like her. All the parents waited with faces full of anticipation for what Tommy wanted to say.

Tic*

Tak*

Tic*

Tak*

The clock keeps ticking.

Tic*

Tak*

Tic*

Tak*

Until it finally marked 3:00 pm

Tic*

…

…

Tak*

"One…Week"

"SHE STARTED IT"

"ONE FUCKING WEEK"

Tommy shouted, standing with his hand on the table after Bluey and Diamond talked, pointing at each other. The authoritative shout caused all six dogs to flatten their ears and open their eyes in shame. "One week in, AND YOU GIRLS GOT INTO A FIGHT ALREADY!?"

"That could hardly be considered a fight from what I saw on the cameras." The female Eskimo opined from the corner of the room, "I have seen girls younger than both of you fight better on the ice rink."

"Excuse me, but who are you?" Diamond's mother asked untrustworthy.

"Your husband's new wife if you ain't careful enough," The Eskimo answers with like a hit from a pan to the head, causing the female white heeler and Chilli to shield their husband, crossing one arm across them to send the message they will be protected.

"ONE WEEK!?" Tommy exclaimed, gaining the center of attention again, "I, I, I still can't believe it, one week and poor Diamond is here with a purple eye."

"Thank you…"

"Shut up, Diamond." Tommy and the Eskimo shut down Diamond after she spoke.

"I…" Tommy raised and dropped his hands in surrender, completely done with the situation "I don't even know what to say, like, i was completely expecting you girls to get in a fight one month in but not freaking one week in"

"Ahh, why did Bluey get in a fight again?" Bandit innocently asks

"At this point, I don't even care." Tommy crossed his arms and shrugged his shoulders. "What is this anyway? Monday night wrestling? Are you two on a schedule or something?"

Bluey leans out of the chair and whispers to her father behind her, "She called Bingo a whore."

"WHAT!?" Bandit and Chilli exclaimed and looked straight at Diamond's parents in anger.

"Diamond…" Her father schools her with an undertone as her mother puts a hand to her head and shakes it in disappointment.

"Is this even a surprise?" Tommy opines with a tired tone

"Excuse me," Chilli finally voiced out, "But I believe you are being really unprofessional about this situation."

"Chilli is right," Diamond's mother agreed, "Our daughters got in a fight, and you are not taking this seriously."

"What in this is serious!?" Tommy shouted out exasperatedly, finally straightening himself out to continue, "You guys and I sit down at this office twelve times because your daughters got into twelve, TWELVE FIGHTS, the last three years here in S.S., and AND YOU ARE TELLING ME TO TAKE THIS SERIOUS!? IS THIS A JOKE!"

Bluey, Bandit, Chilli, Diamond, and her parents lean back out of the shock with flat ears at Tommy letting himself loose in front of them.

"FOR THREE YEARS, I have been sitting here at this desk sorting out every single confrontation ever since Diamond punched Bluey the last day of school before Christmas break three years ago, and now look at this! We are back at it again! Bluey and Diamond, another fight in the very first week of the school year, a new fucking record, fucking impressive"

"Girls I referee back in Quebec got into fights for more than you girls," the Eskimo added.

"I just…Lost the plot of all this?" Tommy continued on the verge of losing it, "Is this simply hate? Do Heelers usually hate each other like this? Is this still because of what happened to Dougie three years ago? You girls are still holding on to that story!?"

"Ahhh"

"Shut up, just shut up," Tommy dismissed both the teenage heelers who tried to speak. "At this point, I'm done, DONE with this, this is unbelievable, I had a recorder sitting around with me saying how promising Bluey and Diamond are with their futures because this just kept happening over and over again, but I'm absolutely done with both of you."

Like sisters of another mother, Bluey and Diamond look away from Tommy in shame, with their messed-up furs shaking from the fear, absolutely expecting the worst out of Tommy, a total expulsion from the school, from their friends, and the good memories that could come out of it.

But today… It wasn't that day.

"You girls are lucky we are barely starting the year, cuz I don't think the department is gonna accept any expulsions this early," Tommy said, still in an authoritative tone. He put his finger on the table and tapped the table with authority as he said each word, "But, this, is, your, last, chance, one more fight and you girls are out, you got that?"

…

…

…

"YOU GOT THAT!?"

"YES TOMMY!" Bluey and Diamond jump and sit straight

"Good," Tommy exhales the leftover anger and leans back to recline in his chair. "Until 5 pm in detention and one week volunteering in the kitchen starting next week."

Bluey and Diamond side-eye each other with worried faces. Despite hating each other, they have enough grey area to know it's not a pleasant experience working in the school kitchen.

"You have no idea how disappointed I am with you two, especially you, Bluey." Tommy turns his gaze towards the blue Heeler, who looks away from him in shame. "You are supposed to be a brown belt in karate, an example to follow for the rest, and yet you disobeyed the teachings in your dojo by punching first. Master McCain is gonna be disappointed when he hears about this."

Bluey whimpers in disgrace, with a small tear coming out of her left eye, acknowledging Tommy's words.

"Now get out."

---

Well…More than a plea, it was a threat.

"Ughh" Bluey looks back at her seat, where a little bit of saliva is still on it, she drags her wrist over it to clean it off with her fur, and notices the notebook she uses to take personal notes, she opens it, find some notes for her classes, reminders, the drawing of Jean-Luc she started doing in the camping trip, until finally, she reaches a page completely covered in notes, cons and pros, lines going across like a conspiracy board with a lot of "Mackenzie" and "Jean-Luc" going around the two papers.

But, standing out in all the chaos, was a very important question.

"Who do I choose?"

The billion-dollar question for Bluey.

During the moment of truth in her date with Mackenzie, she thought for a split second he was Jean-Luc, causing her to shut down the moment and tell Mackenzie she sees him as a friend, triggering a week full of thoughts and decisions about what happened and how to go forward.

It was something her sister and friends noticed easily since she would normally stay in her room with a pint of mango ice cream and children's movies to wash away the feeling of failure after not telling Mackenzie how she felt.

Granted, she displayed all the signals that something went wrong on her date.

But none of her friends know what happened exactly… especially Bingo.

Maybe the little girl inside her head was right…She needs to talk to Bingo about what happened on that date.

Bingo was Bluey's partner in getting her and Mackenzie together ever since Bluey told her about her feelings for Mackenzie back in her first year of secondary school. Bingo was always there, giving her pieces of advice and words of consolation after a failed attempt. She may have all of her friends helping her, but Bingo was always the spearhead in getting those two together.

Unfortunately, whether Bingo likes it or not… She needs to tell her about her newfound feelings for Jean-Luc.

PAP*

"!"

As Bluey tries to figure out how her conversation with Bingo would go, a paper ball hits her right on her arm, causing her to snap her ears up and immediately turn her head to the only dog that could have thrown it.

Diamond is just sitting down, with her legs and body turning to Bluey as she displays a pissed off and show off smile. After noticing Bluey's annoyed face towards her, she points at the paper ball she threw, as if she were telling Bluey to pick it up.

Bluey understood that the paper ball was a message, the thing Diamond was writing moments ago. Bluey hates Diamond with every atom in her body, but she would always listen to whatever she had to say to retort or insult her. Bluey picks up the paper ball and unrolls it to reveal Diamond's message.

"You know im right about Bingo."

Blue frowns, Diamond knows thats her weak spot. Bingo, being compared to someone from the streets, she side eye her with an empty look before saving the note and pulling another notebook and ripping a page to write.

"You want another purple eye? I can give you one outside the school."

After writing, Bluey shapes the paper into a ball and throws it at Diamond, who catches it with no problems. She unrolls it and reads it, laughing under her breath as she pulls another paper to write, makes it into a ball, and throws it at Bluey, who catches it to read.

"I can give you another broken back to give you another week off. Besides, don't you get worried about Bingo hanging out with those boys?"

Bluey gives another side eye to Diamond, she is talking about the times Bingo would hang out with Dougie and Chucky, or even the pair of Banjo and Felix, she pulls out another paper to send a message.

"Don't act like now you care about Bingo. Those boys have names, you stupid bitch. Worry about not dying alone."

"And you worry about Mackenzie, 11 years and still nothing, I'm actually thinking of flirting with him so he can finally date someone he deserves."

"You are the only worthless diamond in the world. Weren't you trying to get into someone's pants at that party weeks ago? You're still too young for that, and that's too low, even for you, little sis."

"Heard you blacked out at the end of the school year afterparty, don't tell me I'm a whore when you are an alcoholic. You are supposed to set the example, big sis."

"At least Mackenzie took care of me, what about you? Didn't you wait for Bailey and Logan to finish before finally returning home?"

"You are so full of yourself, you are no better than anyone, I hope you follow your brother's destiny one day."

"Bingo already ruined your life once, I can ruin your life even further, you ugly piece of shit"

"Alright, Girls." The eerie silence of the room was cut by the old and authoritative voice of Ms. Holden, standing from her desk to stand in front of the whiteboard. "Stand up and get over here! It's almost 5."

Bluey and Diamond listen, pulling away their pencils and paper messages, picking up their stuff and backpacks to stand up and make their way in front of the intimidating female German shepherd.

"Face each other"

Bluey and Diamond listen and turn to face each other, Diamond showing in full display her purple eye and angry frown.

"Now, Diamond," Holden moved her gaze to the light blue Heeler. "You apologize first."

Diamond quickly hummed looking away, before looking back at Bluey and say without emotion "I'm sorry for calling Bingo a whore"

Bluey's fist clenches at her empty words, already wishing to throw at least one more punch.

"Now…" Holden turns her gaze to Bluey, "Your turn."

Bluey's fist relaxes, she rolls her eyes back at Diamond straight in her eyes and says without emotion, "I'm sorry for punching you in your eye."

"Although you deserved it," Bluey quickly thinks.

"Alright, now you two, get out," Holden announces as she turns to face the whiteboard and starts writing on it for her next class tomorrow.

Bluey and Diamond side eye each other until finally they leave the classroom to be picked up by their parents outside…Not without flipping several birds, mumble "Bitch" "Whore" "Ugly" "I hate you" "I hope you die one day" " I hope you die alone" or "I hope you disappear one day" and other stuff not rated T to each other.

---

Heeler's house*

Bluey's room*

Despite telling Bluey not to fight Diamond after everything the light blue Heeler had said and done to her.

It was actually a blessing.

Because now, Bingo can search for clues about Bluey's behavior in her room.

Bingo returned home with Bandit and Chilli after leaving Bluey at school to serve her detention time. After figuring out she has a window to investigate, she carefully planned how and what she would search in her sister's room. When it was finally time for Bandit to pick up Bluey from detention, and with Chilli investigating online about getting reading glasses, Bingo opened her door and quickly sprinted to Bluey's room to start her search.

The red Heeler frantically searches the whole room, opening drawers, lifting her bed, searching her laptop, and flipping through some books. Every bit of dust was flipped over in search of one singular proof of what happened to Bluey.

Bingo quickly goes over to the bookstand and picks up every single one to flip through the pages.

"'Garden of lost memories?' What a sad and good book about Alzheimer's."

"'Fracture Bonds'? Angsty much Bluey?"

"'The Great First Word Race.' This sounds like Uncle Rad and Aunt Frisky."

"'Savior Machine…' Of course you gotta add a little action"

"'It all started with a rose'...Lila would love this book."

"'It was only a kiss.' What a nice romantic teenage book. But no wonder you are ok with underage drinking, hehe"

"'The Fall of Brisbane Prime?'...For the emperor of dogkind, I guess"

"'Together in death.' Are you into ghosts, Bluey?"

Bingo returns the book to its original place to pick up the one next to it.

"Huh?" But something immediately caught Bingo's attention. The book's exterior and the pages were brand new, but the book market only displays the end of chapter 2. When Bingo closed the book, she quickly noticed the price tag was still stuck to the book, it rang a bell inside Bingo's head. This was the same book Bluey ordered online with her allowance, and the book her mother brought to her in her room while she was still in her episode of depression before the beginning of the year.

Curious, Bingo closes the book and reads the title.

"RUMBLE-BEE…What is this?"

She turns the book around and reads the synopsis.

"An insecure Border Collie and a confident Labrador Retriever go head to head in a battle for the love of a beautiful Blue Heeler…so a romantic triangle book?"

THUT*

"!"

The very distinguishable sound of the main door sounds off outside the room, marking the arrival of Bluey and Bandit. Bingo scrambles to put the book back in its place and rushes out of Bluey's room.

After entering her room, she quickly grabs her drumsticks from her computer desk and quickly sits down on her drums to pull out her cellphone to pretend she is looking for a song, expecting Bluey to go to her room to say hi to her.

---

Bluey and Bandit finally arrive home. The young female heeler enters the house first, with a full face of thought, bracing herself to talk to her sister. She goes up the stairs towards the kitchen to find her mother, Chilli, sitting at the table, going through a catalog of reading glasses on the internet. A wave of sadness flushes over Bluey, to see her mother growing blind and old, but she only hides her sadness to send a 'hi, mom' to her, with Chilli answering 'Hi, Bluey' as the young blue Heeler makes her way to Bingo's room.

Bluey finally stands in front of Bingo's room, still with her backpack on and her fur messed up from the long day. She sighs and reaches for the doorknob while thinking.

"She needs to know…She deserves to know…"

---

The sound of the doorknob rotating sounds, Bingo's fur stutters as she looks away from the cellphone to see the door opening, revealing Bluey's empty face with a slight smile on it.

"Hi Bingo," Bluey greets softly as she opens the door..

"Hi Bluey," Bingo greets too. Lowering her cellphone even more to borrow her attention, but quickly notices how out of place her sister's fur looks. "You look like a mess…"

"Im a mess…" Bluey ambles into the room. She takes her backpack off her back and sits on Bingo's bed, which is bigger than it was when Bingo was 5. However, she still sleeps with many soft toys. Taking advantage of the toys, she grabs a plushie of a honey badger wearing a dark blue hat and a dark blue and red T-shirt to hug tightly to her chest and whispers, "I fucking hate Diamond."

"I hate her too," Bingo speaks up. "But you don't have to get into a fight every time she says something about me, I told you this a hundred times."

"I won't let Diamond walk over you, not again," Bluey says softly, hugging the plushie with her eyes closed, seeking comfort in the soft toy.

"I don't care if Diamond walks over me, she can say anything she wants, I left that chapter behind a long time ago."

"I care…" Bluey hugs the plushie tighter "I fucking care…"

"Language, girl."

"Ah!" Bluey finally let go of the plushie and raised her gaze towards Bingo. "Shut up, Bingo, you swear more than I."

"A fucking lot too"

"Shuss"

Bluey amicably throws the plushie to Bingo, going anywhere near her, but Bingo ducks just to add to the joke, causing both girls to laugh.

"Hahahahaha"

After laughing, Bingo is the first sister to speak, "So, how did it go in detention?"

"Despite spending time with the two dogs I hate the most in this world? It went well."

"Glad to hear it…I guess" Bingo looks away uncomfortably before looking back at Bluey. "What happened with the principal? Mom said he was being unprofessional."

"Tommy was being Tommy, no mystery behind it, he did tell me that he was ashamed of me."

"For real life!?" Bingo exclaims, before Bluey responds by nodding, "That Idiot!"

"Leave it, he was sorta right to feel that way." Bluey shamefully looks down at the wooden floor, but looks back at her sister with a reassuring smile to ask, "So what were you doing while I was out?"

"I was…" Bingo picks up her cellphone and scrolls through it to sell her lying act, "...Picking a song from this album to practice with the drums."

"Which album?"

"Motormouth Choppers, it's really good. It focuses on drums. It has songs like 'Roxanne' or 'Should I stay or should I go' or 'Whole lotta love.'"

"Didn't…the main vocalist die in an accident at a concert?" Bluey asks, tilting her head to the side

"Yeah, he sacrificed himself to save the people before the stage came down on him."

"Wow…" Bluey looks away in mourning, but looks back at Bingo, who has already picked up her drumstick to practice, "Hey, can we talk about something?"

"Yeah?" Bingo answers with one raised eyebrow and one finger on the play button of her cellphone

"It's…" Bluey pauses, looking away and around the room, fidgeting her fingers, and swinging her leg, visibly gathering the courage to say "About the date I had with Mackenzie."

"!" Bingo eyebrows jump, she quickly drops her drumstick and puts away her cellphone to get out of her drums to hop on her bed alongside Bluey. "Ok, I'm listening."

"Ok…" Bluey looks to the ceiling, finding her words until she finally tells away "It was good, I really enjoyed watching the movie with him, i felt his soft fur against mine while we cuddled, he bought a shake and we shared it together, he was a total gentleman the whole time, we talked about school, our lives, our friends, we talked about pretty much anything, and then we decided to go to the nearby park"

"I thought I was finally going to tell him my feelings, we even found a secluded place with a single light post illuminating a patch of trail, i though it was perfect, i grabbed his hands and took him under the light post, i told him i was really glad to have him in my life and…"

"And…"

"And I was about to say it, that I love him, but"

…

…

…

"I…"

"Imagine Jean-Luc instead of seeing him."

"!" Bingo's whole facial expression jumps, she covers her mouth with her hand to avoid screaming, while the other hand holds Bluey's arm out of shock

Bluey, already knowing Bingo would say 'tell me more,' continues "it was for a blink of an eye, but I was so out of place, I didn't know what happened, I was…lost, I felt like a mess, so I…Told him I see him as a friend."

Bingo slowly removes her hand from her mouth to say with a barely audible voice, "Again…"

"Again, yeah." Bluey looks away in shame but continues, "We didn't talk a lot after that. Dad picked us up and we went home in silence."

"When I got here, when I locked myself in my room, I started thinking about what happened and what I thought about Jean-Luc and…"

Bingo leans forward towards Bluey, waiting in anticipation of what she is gonna say.

Bluey takes a whole breath of air inside her lungs and confesses, "I think I like Jean-Luc…"

…

…

…

"You think?" Bingo finally speaks up after recovering from the shock, "You THINK you like Jean-Luc?"

"I can't ignore what I'm feeling, I feel…good, spectacular, whenever I see him, just like what I feel when I see Mackenzie."

"What about Mack!?" Bingo asks, visibly disturbed, "What about him!?"

"I still like Mackenzie," Bluey retorts, matching Bingo's tone, "I still feel the same as before."

"Soo…"

"Soo…I'm in love with Mackenzie and Jean-Luc." Bluey finally says

"Ohhhhh cheese and crackers." Bingo hops out of bed to stroll up and down her bedroom with both her arms on the sides of her head, taking in her sister's words. "This is incredible…"

"I know…I thought during detention that you needed to hear this, to maybe seek advice from you."

"Im in no better position than you with Lila, but yeah," Bingo stops and turns around to face Bluey. "What about our help? What about all the times our friends helped you get you two together, what about them!?"

"I DON'T KNOW!" Bluey hops out of the bed too and stands before Bingo. "I don't want to tell them anything, I wanna figure out my feelings first."

"You know some people are not gonna like this."

"It's my life, my feeling, Bingo." Bluey stands her ground. "I really appreciate everything you and the club did for me to get Mackenzie and me together, but…I need to figure out my feelings for Jean-Luc and Mackenzie."

Bingo sights with her eyes closed, and when she let out the air, she says, "Fine…Do what you need to do. Just…if you need anything, even just an ear, just reach out to me."

"Thanks, Bingo."

"Don't sweat it, just…do what mum, dad, and I told you, to follow your heart."

"My heart is flipped upside down, sometimes I can't think clearly here or at school, I, I don't even know how in the world im gonna tell either Jean-Luc or Mackenzie that I would rather date the other one without losing them"

"Wow…I don't envy you."

"I really don't wanna lose them." Bluey drops her gaze to the floor in sadness. "I love both of them."

"Ummmmmmm" Bingo ponders with a thumb and index fingers under her mouth. "It is a difficult decision, but one thing I'm sure of is that Mackenzie and Jean-Luc are not gonna abandon you just out of the blue. I know Mackenzie really likes to be your friend, and I can tell Jean-Luc loves spending time with you. So I'm pretty sure they will still be your friends even if you choose one of them."

"You really think so?"

"I'm sure…really sure about it. You are a wonderful friend, and I know they wouldn't like to miss your friendship.

"Yeah…I guess that helps a little bit. Thanks Bingo"

"Yeah, of course, but do you mind? I wanna practice with the drums."

"Oh yeah sure," Bluey turns around to head to the door. "Wouldn't want to interrupt my sister's dream of becoming a drummer for a famous band."

"Oh, quiet you," Bingo retorts as Bluey opens the door and finally gets out of the bedroom

And when Bluey closes the door entirely

…

…

…

Bingo eyebrows jump and quickly zoom to her drums to pick up her phone and go to the 'Blue dove x Kiwi' group chat with shaking fingers.

---

Blue dove x Kiwi group chat*

Bingo: HEY!

Bingo: EVERYONE!

Bingo: @everyone

Bingo: @everyone

Bingo: @everyone

Rusty: Bingo, im here wtf!?

Chole: What's going on

Banjo: Fuck you Bingo i was taking a shower

Juniper: This better be good

Felix: Bingo, you silly bean…Don't do that again.

Snickers: What Bingo... If you're gonna go on about the guardians of the planet again, I swear...

Jack: ffs, Bingo

Lila: Yes, you little cinnamon roll?

Bingo: I TOLD YOU NOT TO CALL ME A CINNAMON ROLL

Jasper W: Fuck Bingo, im having you do my homework if this is a joke

Bingo: THIS AINT A JOKE!

Bingo: BLUEY JUST TOLD ME WHY SHE TOLD MACK SHE SEES HER AS A BEST FRIEND

Rusty: Huh?

Winton: Finally?

Adam: Why now?

Sadie: EVERYONE SHUT UP!

Sadie: Continue Bingo

Bingo: SHE TOLD ME

Bingo: SHE SAW FOR A SLIP SECOND JEAN-LUC WHEN SHE WAS GOING TO CONFESS TO MACK AND SHE TOLD ME SHE HAS FEELING FOR JEAN-LUC.

Rusty: WHAT!?

Joe: ARE

Adam: YOU

Dan: KIDDING

Snickers: ME!!!!!!!!!!

Harley: Fucking knew Bluey would have feeling for Jean-Luc

Coco: Wait what? For real life?

Indy: I called it

Chucky: I saw that in her eyes, she definitely fell for him

Dougie: Shit, this isnt good

Jack: Oh, this could explain why she acted weird while talking to Mack at that date.

Rusty: Oh yeah, could also explain her face during the game of musical chairs.

Winton: That's it

*Winton left the group chat*

Bingo: HEY, GET BACK HERE YOU COWARD

*Bingo added Winton to the group chat*

Bingo: EVERYONE SHUT UP

Indy: I'm out

*Indy left the group chat*

Pretzel: game over, im done

*Pretzel left the group chat*

Felix: I'm not an idiot, I'm not going down with the ship

*Felix left the group chat*

Bingo: Bunch of cowards

*Bingo added Indy to the group chat*

*Bingo added Pretzel to the group chat*

*Bingo added Felix to the group chat*

Bingo: LETS NOT ABANDON THE FUCKING SHIP

Winton: This fucking ship is being going down since 5th grade, Bingo.

Winton: I was a total idiot to think those two would get married smh

Bingo: BLUEY STILL HAS FEELING FOR MACKENZIE

Bingo: There is still a chance

Bingo: We can't fall off and tell Mackenzie everything

Bingo: We gotta wait and be smart about this

Rusty: Bingo is right, we can't tell Mackenzie anything.

Jack: he is gonna be unbearable if he hears something.

Chloe: But what are we gonna do?

Juniper: Reminder, we can't force Bluey to date Mack

Buddy: So do we just stand back and wait?

Jasper G: Nah, we gotta do something

Lila: Yeah, we gotta help Mack

Dusty: Hold up…

Dusty: So all of you guys made me put on all those costumes, say all those things to Mack and Bluey to get them to do something and go through hell and back in situations I could have been arrested and dragged to my parents.

Dusty: FOR BLUEY TO HAVE FEELING FOR THAT LABRADOR?

Dusty: Im so fucking done

*Dusty left the group chat*

Rusty: FFS

Lulu: Told ya she wouldn't be happy.

Bingo: Shit

*Bingo added Dusty to the group chat

Bingo: CAN YOU ALL STOP LEAVING THE GROUP CHAT FOR 5 SECONDS!?

Bingo: WE STILL GOT A CHANCE

Bingo: THAT LABRADOR WILL NOT BE BLUEY'S BOYFRIEND

Indy: Sure…Whatever.

Felix: Keep talking to a wall.

Rusty: So, how are we gonna do this?

Lila: Yeah, what are we gonna do, Bingo?

---

Bingo let herself fall onto the bed, her twitching eyes glued to the cellphone and the group chat, doing the impossible and devising a plan.

She promised Mackenzie she will help him to date Bluey.

And she is determined to deliver.

She owes it to him.

It's her duty.

It doesn't matter if it is the end of the world.

She WILL accomplish her word.

Jean-Luc WILL not date Bluey.

Mackenzie Border-Collie WILL date Bluey Heeler.

Even if that's the only thing she does before leaving this world

Even…If she needs to take drastic measures to make sure Bluey and Mackenzie end up together

---

Bluey's room*

Bluey felt like a ton of bricks had been lifted off her shoulders as she finally entered her room and left her backpack to the side of the door, definitely more at peace with herself after telling the truth to her sister. More determined to figure out her feelings for both guys.

But…A whole morning in classes, participating in a dodgeball battle, getting into a fight with Diamond, being in detention, and talking to Bingo drained all the energy she had for the day.

"Ughhhh." Bluey drops face down onto the bed, the soft material catching her into a quiet embrace. She turns her head to the side to be able to breathe again and pulls out her cellphone to catch up with everyone in the club's group chat, only to find she missed 350 messages from everyone.

"Ugh, of course," Bluey murmurs under her breath after seeing all she had missed while she was in detention. She scrolls up to the beginning of the 350 messages to then scrolls down and reads each one. The conversation was mostly about the victory in the dodgeball battle and the fight she had with Diamond, followed by Rusty's suggestion of doing a get-together at his house to celebrate the victory, with alcohol included. Lots of members celebrate, including some of Bingo's friends, who in her opinion, are still too young to drink. But knowing Rusty's father and Rusty himself, he wouldn't allow it.

"Well…have fun at that party, today has been a long day for me," Bluey whispers to herself as she gets comfortable on her bed, covering herself with her blanket and preparing to sleep to wake up later at night to eat the rest of the pint of mango ice cream and watch a kid's movie to celebrate the start of the weekend.

But after Bluey closed her eyes and put herself comfortably to sleep.

Ding*

Her cellphone sounds off with the notification of a new message, She grabs her cellphone from under her pillow to see a notification: she got a new message from Mackenzie.

"!"

Bluey's eyes jumped, and with wide open eyes, she opened the notification that sent her to the text conversation with Mackenzie, from him: a simple message saying.

Mackenzie: Hi, Bluey

"He must have seen I'm online," Bluey thinks as she quickly puts both thumbs on the cellphone screen to text back.

Bluey: Hi, Mackenzie

Mackenzie: How did it go in detention?

Bluey jokingly rolls her eyes. Of course, she had to tell Mackenzie how it went in detention, just like Bingo. She happily typed with her thumbs to send a message loaded with sarcasm.

Bluey: It went well. Tommy told me he was disappointed in me. I have to work in the kitchen for one week, and I almost punched Diamond again in her other eye.

Mackenzie: Volunteering work*

Bluey put her cellphone on her chest to rotate and look at the ceiling of her room with an empty face, damming herself for having a Border Collie best friend who likes to tease her about the correct terms. The blue Heeler brings her cellphone close to her face again to respond to Mackenzie with the same energy.

Bluey: Slave work*

Mackenzie: Touche

Bluey: We gotta be accurate lol

Mackenzie: True lol. What about Diamond? You are never going to leave her alone, huh?

Bluey: Never lol, I will fight her to the end of the world and back

Mackenzie: Have fun dealing with Bingo then. She wasn't happy you fought her again.

"Tsk." Bluey clicks her tongue in disappointment, "He is right, I have been ignoring her for the last couple of months about it." She stops thinking about sending another message to Mackenzie

Bluey: Yeah, you are right.

Mackenzie: But other than that. You feel better now? A lot happened after the dodgeball battle.

Bluey: I'm fine, just tired. I really wanna go to sleep.

Mackenzie: That's fine, just wanted to see if we have a phone call.

"A phone call?"

Bluey raises one eyebrow after being caught off guard. She had to recognize it, she barely spent time talking to Mackenzie the last week and a half after that date in the movie theater. They would have small conversations at school, but those were the only times they would communicate.

But after seeing Mackenzie win the dodgeball battle by himself, did brought them a moment of togetherness, that maybe it is still possible to be the best friends forever they always have been…and maybe the possibility of being something more is still around.

Considering she has feelings for both her best friends, she knows she needs to follow her parents and sister's advice of following her heart,

And her heart was telling her to talk to Mackenzie.

"It's been so long since I had a conversation with Mackenzie," Bluey thinks, contemplating the message the border collie sent. "I really want to talk to him, hear his voice again."

With a simple move of her thumb, Bluey hits the button to make a call and puts the cellphone to her ear.

Dinggggggggggg*

Dinggggggggggg*

…

"Bluey?"

"Oh!" Bluey's body jumps at the clear voice of the Border-Collie "Hi Mackenzie"

"Hey, what's up?"

"Nothing much, I was just about to sleep."

"Sooooooo why did you call me?"

"I can spare a few minutes."

"You sure?"

"Yeah," Bluey closes her eyes to focus on the conversation. "I always spare a few minutes for you."

"Thats great hehehe"

"Hehehe"

"Hehe, hey, so I guess you are not going to Rusty's victory party?"

"Ughhh," Bluey sighs as she carefully chooses her words, "I could go, but I'm really tired and shaken after today and…"

Bluey opens her eyes and lifts the blanket to look down at her stomach, Diamond's words bouncing in her head, her belly is definitely not big but definitely could be skinnier, "I think I gotta stop drinking, I'm getting fat."

"Pffffffff" Mackenzie blurts out through his cellphone, "Nonsense, you are not fat."

"Im serious!" Bluey let the aperture fall over her chest, "You might not feel it, but I feel heavy."

"Well…I'm not calling you fat, but I respect your decision."

Bluey frowns, half closing her eyes, "You are calling me fat."

"You started it."

"Hahahaha," Bluey laughs out loud, filling the air of her room with the happy noises, followed by Mackenzie's laughter coming out of her phone.

After laughing amicably, Bluey recomposed herself to ask Mackenzie. "Hey, and what about Rusty? Is he for real life gonna serve beer to the kiddos?"

"Nope, he already said that a lot of times. Felix and Banjo obviously are pressuring Rusty, but he shuts them down every time."

"Wow…These kids, they gotta know it's not that special."

"As long as they keep seeing us having fun with it, they will never stop asking."

"Well, they gotta hold on then"

"Yeah, at some point, I don't blame them. Rusty is going all out on this party."

"Really?" Bluey raises an eyebrow, wondering.

"Yeah, he and his dad got everyone's favorite brand, and even got Indy's favorite bottle, one that won't disturb her stomach. Rusty also mentioned they are preparing the house to have us sleep there while the kids are going back to their houses."

"Is it going to be that crazy?" Bluey asks

"You know Rusty's dad, just half a cup for each one, he doesn't want to run any risks."

"That obviously sounds boring, but I don't blame him."

"Yeah, I really don't wanna go to this party though"

"Why?"

"I just simply don't want to, I just wanna relax in my room and play videogames, but Rusty is making me go to because—" Mackenzie does his best impression of Rusty's rough voice. "Im the one who brought the dub to the club."

"But he is right, you know…" A small smile forms on Bluey as she speaks, "You won the entire thing. You were amazing in that game."

Mackenzie stays silent. The soft sound of the AC in his room sounds through his cellphone as the silence of such motivating words weighs down on him. After a second of silence, Mackenzie finally says a simple "Really?"

"Yeah," Bluey beams as her cheeks turn red from giving praise. "You did amazing, and the Haka you did moments before eliminating Diamond, Logan, and Bailey? That was spectacular. I always thought you didn't like the Maori culture or making those Hakas,"

"hehe" Mackenzie chuckles over the call, "I guess…I was inspired"

"Yeah…I love it."

"Thanks, Bluey."

It is barely noticeable, but Bluey caught the sound of Mackenzie's happy tail hitting against something, like the back of his gaming chair. She couldn't avoid it either; her tail also started to wag under her body and blanket, feeling the happiness of hearing Mackenzie's voice filling her with a serene peace.

"So…" Mackenzie talks again, the sound of his wagging tail less noticeable. "Since we are all gonna be sleeping at Rusty's, maybe you can tag with us for Brekkie."

"Oh, Mackenzie," Bluey jokingly put her free arm over her forehead. "Im gonna be awake late at night watching a movie, so it's gonna be hard for me to come over."

"The door will be open, I will wait for you."

"I will consider it."

Bluey adds with a little bit of sass in her words, mentally debating how possible it is to wake up early tomorrow and join her friends for breakfast.

DING*

"!"

But a notification pierces her ears, the distinguishable sound of a text message that just arrived on her device, Bluey moves her cellphone to the front of her face to take a good look at the screen to see.

Message from Jean-Luc: Hi Bluey, down to talk?"

"Eh?" Bluey squints her right eye with her right cheek in confusion, her heart jumps, and she couldn't help to say "I just got a message from Jean-Luc."

"Luke?" Mackenzie blurted out as if he had never heard of him in a long time. "He told me he was going to hang out with the other exchange students with Tommy and that fluffy dog."

"Is it…" Bluey put her device near her ear again and rolls her eyes around, trying to imagine the female dog that was near Tommy in his office, "A white and brown woman with fur shorter than your mom."

"Yup, the same one".

"Biscuits"

"What about her?"

"She was in the office with Tommy as he talked to me and Diamond. She would say some mean things to both of us, and even insulted Diamond's mom."

"Geez…sounds like a total character."

"She is…"

Bluey couldn't help but to fade out at the ceiling of her room, her heart used to tell her to talk to Mackenzie but now, it was telling her to talk to Jean-Luc, it was a nasty feeling for Bluey. to switch her entire attention to another crush out of anywhere, but it was her heart after all, and she was going to listen to it just like her family told her.

"Look ummmm" Bluey's vocal cords studders like a damage engine as she tries to find the words to end the conversation with Mackenzie, she would talk for hours and hours with him but as much as it hurts her, she needs to talk to Jean-Luc, to seek the same confront as Mackenzie, to see who she like to talk more. "Im gonna text Jean-Luc to see what he wants, and probably after that im gonna sleep."

"Okay…" Mackenzie says as if the emotion in his voice faded in the distance, but says normally, "Have fun talking to Luke, let me know if you are coming over for brekkie tomorrow."

"Alright, talk to you later, have fun at the party."

"I will try, bye Bluey."

"I love you, Mack."

Bluey romantically thinks as she ends the call, a small wave of sadness flushes towards her heart, but it is small compared to the emotion of talking to Jean-Luc, the Labrador who lingered in her mind for so long, and the memory she cherishes through the pink tree in the forest. She quickly goes to her chat with Jean-Luc to text.

Bluey: Yeah, what's up?

Bluey waited, the drums in her heart sounding off out of emotion, but luckily, Jean-Luc doesn't take long to answer.

Jean-Luc: Nothing much, just hanging out with the other exchange students, Tommy, and Alice

Bluey raises an inquisitive eyebrow, that name…maybe?

Bluey: Is that the brown and white woman who is always next to Tommy?

Jean-Luc: Canadian Eskimo, and yes, that's Alice, she is overwatching my studies since "I'm a big deal."

"Huh!" Bluey interjects in annoyance as she types the next message with airs of venting.

Bluey: Im sorry but Alice has a big mouth tbh

Jean-Luc: You can't imagine how many times I heard that *Rolling eyes emoji*

Jean-Luc: She taught me everything I know about chirping other dogs.

Bluey: Yeah, that makes sense

Bluey: Hey is Tommy alright? He seemed pretty pissed when I talked to him earlier.

Jean-Luc: Yeah he looks fine, absolutely having a blast with us.

Jean-Luc: We ate pizza in his office and then we drove around Brisbane until we arrived at the mall

Jean-Luc: Enough talking about Alice and Tommy. What happened in the indoor court? Never in my life did I think you would get in a fight.

"Neither did I, but here we are." Bluey rolls her eyes as she dramatically thinks, never in her mind crossing the idea of Jean-Luc dealing with her after another fight with Diamond. She eats up the disbelief and explains to Jean-Luc.

Bluey: You remember Diamond? The girl from the park? She called Bingo a really bad word, and I punched her right in her eye.

Jean-Luc: whore* I saw the groupchat but it was a mess to read with everyone texting at the same time.

"Hehehe." Bluey chuckles. Despite only knowing Jean-Luc for approximately less than 3 weeks, it took her by surprise that he is similar to Mackenzie. Generally calm and a teaser from time to time. Like two sides of the same coin.

Bluey: Ikr, the group chat can be so chaotic sometimes.

Jean-Luc: I noticed that. and to think we were gonna get ice cream from her

Bluey: still sad that we couldn't get it. That's the best ice cream in the world.

Jean-Luc: I know but I really don't mind it, the important thing was to spend time together and we did.

Jean-Luc: I really enjoyed spending time with you.

"Awwwwwww"

Bluey stares at the screen with Jean-Luc's last message with a melted heart, in deep, analytical thought on what to do next. Her heart races as her thumbs hover over the virtual keyboard.

Just like with Mackenzie, it's been a while since she actually talked to Jean-Luc, just a couple of small conversations at school, but even then, she would stutte because of the impression of looking good before him, a feeling she doesnt usually feel with Mackeznie due to all the year they been together.

Her heart is telling her to put aside the nervousness and talk to Jean-Luc, just like weeks ago.

And considering she talked to Mackeznie after what happened on that date.

It was time to hear him again.

Bluey swallows her nerves and quickly sends a text message.

Bluey: Are you down for a phone call?

Bluey quickly turns off her cellphone, lets it drop on top of her chest, and exhales through her mouth, the weight of her question weighing down on her as if she made a bad decision.

Ding*

Fortunately for her, Jean-Luc's answer comes in swiftly.

Jean-Luc: Sure, I'm not doing anything rn.

"Perfect," Bluey thinks as her chest beats with force. She presses the button to make the call and puts her device to her ear.

Dinggggggggggg*

Dinggggggggggg*

"Hello?"

Jean-Luc's voice sounds from the other side, mixed with the muffled sound of a song and the bass, but Bluey pays little mind to greed.

"Hi Jean-Luc"

"Oh, hi Bluey,"

Jean-Luc greets back, his voice still managing to be louder than the music in the background. Something that finally pushes Bluey to ask.

"Where are you?"

"Oh, im at a karaoke place, Tommy, Alice, Sebastian, and Kolina are singing something in German while im just out here talking to Dalilah."

"Huh?" Bluey felt a pin pierce her soul; the itchiness she felt during the party a week ago appeared again. She had to recognize she didn't like anyone else talking to Jean-Luc. But mentally rubs it under a facade to ask, "Why?"

"Cuz Dalilah and I don't like singing, so we are just waiting for the rest to finish."

"Bah," Bluey vocally dismisses, "Nonsense, you are a good singer."

"One thing is being a good singer, another thing is liking it."

"Ummm, true," Bluey agrees, but the moment with Jean-Luc at the party makes her recall with nostalgic eyes, "but you are an amazing singer, I loved singing with you."

"Hehehe," Jean-Luc laughs amicably. "Yeah, I liked it too, it was a nice moment."

"Hehehe"

Bluey laughs too, her tail wagging under her body and blanket again, her body feeling the same chemicals she felt when talking to Mackenzie, making her feel calm and safe. A feeling she wants more and more with each passing second.

"You were also pretty great, never knew you had such a voice." Jean-Luc speaks through the device.

"Oh, thanks, I practiced a lot when I was little, apparently my friends didn't like hearing me sing."

"I understand that very well, the road to glory is made with practice."

"Ohhh, that sounds inspiring."

"My coach on my hockey team said that"

"Sounds like a good coach, he reminds me of my master at my dojo."

"Does he make you run laps around the place?" Jean-Luc asks, trying to sound as if his experience is worse

"Lots of laps," Bluey quips

"Hehehe, Oh!" Jean-Luc exclaims, "They are done, I will talk to you later, Bluey."

"Eh?" Bluey interjects, confused. She wanted to spend more time with Jean-Luc, to explore her feelings, but she doesn't want to be a bad person holding him down, so she amicably says, "Alright, I gotta sleep anyway, talk to you later, Jean-Luc."

"See ya, Bluey."

And with that, Jean-Luc hangs up the call, leaving Bluey with a silent cellphone. She moves it to see the screen showing the text messages app with both guys at the top of the list.

Her hear is overflowing with joy, a signal that reaffirm her feeling for both guys. but sense of emptiness covers Bluey; she wants to talk more to the Labrador, but at the same time, a sense of urgency tells her to talk to him more, to figure out her feelings, but it is also telling her to talk to Mackenzie more.

Bluey sighs heavily, the size of her task ahead of her, an entire school year to make up her mind and choose one.

This is going to be a long year.

And while closing her eyes to sleep, she thinks.

"Who do I choose?"

Notes:

MASSIVE THANKS for Grey and Slvrstar for being the Betas for this chapter, their opinions help a lot of THANK YOU SO MUCH!!!

Las references:

Girls fighting on a beach: The last of us 2 ending and an in a nutshell of Bluey and Diamond.

Bingo going through the books: A nod to some of the writers in PNF401, specially RUMBLE BEE made by the one and only Grey_Shade_Ink, who got inspired to start his own fic you should definitely check it out.

Honey badger pushie: It showed up in LET.IT.OUT too, its a reference to Daniel Ricciardo from F1. OF COURSE I HAD TO REFERENCE HIM OR I WOULDNT BE A TRUE F1 FAN lol

Motormouth Chopper: Chopper’s temporal moniker by Captain bartlett from Ace combat 5, of course i gotta reference the one and only Chopper…*sniff*

That's it for today

If there is anything i learned from writing, is that you never promise your audience which day you are going to post...so I'm not gonna say when is the next chapter coming with the hopes its gonna be quick lol

Until the next time.

Chapter 19: Mom raised a... Part 1

Notes:

Yeah, it's been a while, sorry about the wait. I was working on a crap ton of side projects like "You are not alone" and a WIP.

Without much yapping, enjoy.

Quebec City*

1 year ago*

"Ugh"

Jean-Luc opened the door of his home, boots and one side of his body covered in a thin layer of fresh snow. He shakes his body, boots, and walks in, making sure to leave them near the entrance so as not to ruin the interior. He strolls over to the kitchen to check for lunch, but the only thing he finds on the table is a note.

Jean-Luc picks it up and reads it, "(Your dad and I are going to be in the city center to look for ingredients for a cake) Seriously, guys!" Jean-Luc annoyingly shouts the last thing in English, looking up, but shakes it off to walk to his room

The Labradors' home didn't change a lot since he was a pup; the only major changes were the use of modern electronics and the fact that Jean-Luc has his room with a view of the river. Jean-Luc finally arrived at his safe space, where there was a bigger-than-him bed, a desk with a simple computer, posters about famous writers and hockey players, and in one corner was a bundle of 4 hockey sticks.

Jean-Luc drops his backpack and sits in the computer chair while giving a powerful sigh. It's been a week since applying to be an exchange student to go to Brisbane and find Bluey…

Find Bluey…

That's a good question.

Jean-Luc swings his chair around in deep thought about finding Bluey. Her blue fur appears in his memories like an old highlight reel he wants to relive again. But the more he thought about it, the more confused he became to the point he would start feeling a headache.

As he swings on his chair…he looks out the window, where snow is falling.

With a grayish, white colour painting the sky, snow keeps falling in a delicate fall. Curious. Jean-Luc gets up and strolls to the window. Standing in front of his window, he sees the river and the traffic on the street below the hill, but also decorating the landscape are leafless trees.

"(They look so dead)" Jean-Luc thinks as he puts his elbows on the frame to look, "(I can't wait until spring comes around to see them alive again.)"

"(Just like—)"

"(Huh!)"

Jean-Luc's eyes open up at the light bulb over his head turns on.

"(I… Planted something… Before I left the camping site. It could be a massive tree or a small plant)"

"(I could use that to leave a message for Bluey, to have her find me. But…)" Jean-Luc thinks as the snow keeps falling outside his room, "(There is no guarantee that she would go back to the same place, right?)"

"(I don't know, man,)" Jean-Luc rested his head on his arms to watch the snow fall peacefully outside his room, dreaming of how, if everything goes well, he would see Bluey again. "(It's worth a try, we will see.)"

---

Brisbane, Australia*

Southern Stars High School*

Present day*

"..."

Jean-Luc looks aghast at his nature science book, at a section of the page where the same pink tree he planted could be seen. Sending him back to the day he reconnected with Bluey weeks ago at the camping site.

"Hey"

Jean-Luc looks up to see Professor Watkins, a brown and white Border-Collie in his late 20's..

"Are you alright? You look lost," Watkins says with authority but with a warm tone.

"Yeah, yeah, I'm fine," Jean-Luc answers, shrugging off his situation.

"Alright," Watkins turns around, "Pay attention."

The Border-Collie teacher returns to his post at the front of the classroom of his nature science class. Jean-Luc looks without order at his classmates around him, the book in front of him, confused, trying to catch on with the rest of the class.

A couple of seats away from Jean-Luc.

Bingo is looking at him with an inquisitive gaze.

---

"Are you alright? You've been spacing out these last couple of days."

Bingo asks alongside Bluey and Mackenzie. In front of them, Jean-Luc was looking for one of his books in his locker.

Jean-Luc ignores the voice of his heeler friend as he ravages his locker. Unlike the rest of Brisbane's high schools, with all the lockers located in a single ample room. Southern Stars High School has its lockers set up like an American high school, on the sides of the hallways. This aesthetic choice came from Tommy's family to resemble an American school, not the biggest concern for Jean-Luc, but he would have liked the typical locker room of Australia.

"I have been noticing that too, I'm starting to get worried," Bluey voiced her concerns.

"Yeah, remember what they told you, Luke." Mackenzie also voiced out his concerns with a can of energy drink in his hand. "If your grades go below 60%, you are gonna have to go back to Canada."

After hearing his friends, Jean-Luc sighs, the moment in natural science class wasn't the only moment of him spacing out in confusion; After a week of classes, he had been spacing out, thinking about everything Jean-Luc experienced since he arrived in Brisbane, like the camping day, the hangout at the downtown park, and the welcoming party. And those moments cause him embarrassing moments or lose important study time to have good grades, which is not ideal for Alice and the exchange program.

"Yes, im alright," Jean-Luc finally answers while still looking in his locker. "Just being distracted thinking about stuff, thats all.

"Well, you know you can count on any of us to help you," Bluey says before moving her thumb around to point at Mackenzie and Bingo, "Especially Bingo with biology and Mackenzie with math."

"Yeah, I could help."

"Im not that good at explaining math!"
Bingo and Mackenzie say at the same time, with Mackenzie slightly annoyed.

"Thanks, but I think I got this." Jean-Luc finally turns his head to look at the three dogs, but notices that Mackenzie has a can of energy drink. He points at it and asks, "Can I get some?"

Without saying anything else, Mackenzie extends the drink, and Jean-Luc grabs it to take a sip before giving it back to Mackenzie.

"Alright, Bluey and Bingo are stealing me to go to the library," Mackenzie says as he and the two girls start to walk off while waving their hands. "I'll arrive late at home, see ya, Luke."

"See ya guys"

Jean-Luc says, also waving his hand to send off his friends. He returns to look at his locker and finally finds his history book. He puts it under his armpit and closes the locker.

"Hey"

"AHH"

Jean-Luc jumps at the sudden scare— a Hispanic accent voice accompanied by the figure of a black Labrador with white marks on her face, and a white heart shape on her chest.

"Sorry, couldn't help but listen," the Labrador says, looking bemused at Jean-Luc.

"Who are you?" Jean-Luc asks confused

"Im Luna, we are locker neighbors," Luna says as she opens her locker, revealing a mostly empty locker. "It's just that I barely use my locker."

"Huh…"

"Im still getting used to it." Luna puts some books inside her locker to then close it, "But when there are situations like being the referee of an improvised dodge ball match after school or practicing with Bluey and the karate class at the local park, then I gotta save my school stuff somewhere, right?"

"Huh," Jean-Luc leans his head to the side, curious.

"Oh shit," Luna turns to Jean-Luc with a slight, embarrassed face. "I shouldn't have told you that."

"Tell me what?"

"That Bluey and I are practicing Karate?"

"Bluey already told me she is practicing Karate," Jean-Luc answers with half a face of 'wanting to be done with this conversation'

"Oh… She must really trust you then…"

"ummm huhhhh"

"Well yeah," Luna goes back on track and keeps talking to Jean-Luc, "I couldn't help to listen to the conversation and I wanna say something"

"Im listening."

"When someone usually space out, it's because there is something unresolved in your past that needs your attention, like you should go back in time, or trace your steps, usually the source of what's causing you so much thinking is there."

"Ummmmm"

Jean-Luc puts his index and thumb under his mouth and looks up to think.

Seeing the tree in that textbook was one of those things that triggered that state of confusion and loss.

Other items like Tea, a microphone, or someone with Blue fur also triggered these moments.

He had to admit it, of all the memories in Brisbane, the ones that stand out the most are the ones with Bluey in them, the girl who is one of the reasons he embarked on this journey.

But after a long time of dreaming about reuniting with Bluey and finally achieving it, it shouldn't cause him to space out like that.

Right?

Unless.

Bluey's blue fur reminds him of someone else.

Someone who just looks like…

---

9 Years ago

Quebec City, Canada*

The blazing sun's rays fell onto the French descent city. A new school season arrived in the city, as both new and returning students flooded the classrooms.

9-year-old Jean-Luc is not the exception. He walks with happy feet towards the school patio alongside his classmates during recess. When the outer doors open and all students run to play, Jean-Luc scans the patio in search of a white and brown Eskimo.

"(She is not over there)"

"(Nor over there)"

"(Not over there)"

Absolutely lost and desperate from searching the whole patio. He spots his third-grade teacher talking to the teachers from other grades who were also playing and talking on the patio. Jean-Luc gets closer to them with a smile filled with nervous courage and interrupts them with a question.

"(Excuse me…)" all the teachers stop talking to look at Jean-Luc "(Where is teacher Juneau and her sister Alice?")

Several teachers look at each other, unsure of what to say or who is going to say it, until Jean-Luc's third-grade teacher, a female shiba inu, approached him to say, with a heavy heart. "(Buddy, unfortunately, Juneau and Alice are not goint ot come back)

"(What!?)" Jean-Luc exclaims, perplexed. ("Why!?")

"(Ummmm)" the teacher hums until she answers, "(There was a family emergency, and they both had to leave the school)"

"(When are they gonna come back?)" Jean-Luc asks, with a fiber of hope in his voice.

"(Im not sure if they are going to come back, but Im sure they wish you the best Jean-Luc)"

"Awww"

Jean-Luc turns around and hopelessly walks with no route away from the teachers, until he gets near a wall to sit down, puts his back against the wall, and cries in a fetal position in grief at the unexpected departure of his best friend Alice. The girl teaching him English to go back to Brisbane.

As Jean-Luc was wailing his eyes out. A female voice sounds.

"(Hi)"

Jean-Luc looks up to see a blue dog of the same age as him…with long ears, separate circles with a lighter tone of blue around her eyes, and large circles around her body.

"(I'm Lanny, what's your name?)"

That day was important for Jean-Luc for several reasons.

The first day of third grade, the departure of Juneau, who, unbeknownst to Jean-Luc at the time that Juneau was fired for lack of work ethic, also forced Alice to not come to school.

And probably the most important. Meeting the Blue Picardy Spaniel, Lanny.

A dog so similar to…

---

"Jean-Luc!"

"AHHH"

Jean-Luc jumps out of the seat to look around him. He is in the coffee shop where he had gone in with Bluey and her mother. It was peak hour, and dogs of all sizes and breeds were inside the coffee shop, drinking and having a good time.

Avril coffee shop*

2 Days later*

"C'mon, dude, wake up, gotta help me bring everything over"

It was Lucky who startled him, around Jean-Luc at the round table. Were Chucky, the couple, Bentley and Jasper G, and Zara and Jasper W.

"I can help if Jean-Luc is sleepy," Chucky jokes.

"You are not strong enough for this, c'mon Jean-Luc, help me out." Lucky dismisses his brother, moving his hand, indicating the blue Labrador to follow him.

"Are you sure? Spending all that time with Judo surely will make you tired," Chucky talks back at his brother with a jokey tone. To which Lucky only responds with a middle finger.

Still shaken from being interrupted from his moment of thinking, he got up and walked past other tables, chairs, and dogs until he and Lucky arrived at the counter, where a group of 6 workers, mostly teenagers and young adults, were serving customers and preparing coffee.

One of them, Winnie, wearing a green apron and a green hat, brings over to her fellow Labradors a tray of 7 cups, filled with tea or natural juices.

"Take this," Winnie says with a tired voice from working. "I will tag along with you guys later."

"Alright," Lucky takes the tray with 4 drinks while Jean-Luc takes the other three, including his drink, a passion fruit tea.

"Ummm, excuse me," a customer comes up to the labradors to ask with a raised finger, "Do you guys sell coffee?"

"..."

Winnie looks behind to look directly at the coffee machines to then turns back to the customer and says with a deadpan tone, "No, we don't sell coffee here."

"Aww damn"

The customer walks away from them. Lucky and Jean-Luc shrug their shoulders and turn around to walk back to their table, leaving an exasperated Winnie behind, who is now questioning her life choices. The two labradors walk back to where Chucky, the Cavalier sisters, and the Jasper best friends, were waiting.

"Alright!" Lucky announces getting closer to the table, putting the drinks down with Jean-Luc following his actions, "Enjoy."

The young teenagers grab their drinks and immediately start talking about their days at school. About their first year in Southern Stars High School. It didn't take long for the rush to end and for Winnie to tag along with her friends.

But even in the air of friendship and good vibes. With a half passion fruit tea cup in his hand. Watching Bentley and Zara talking to both Jaspers makes Jean-Luc think about the time he went to the same coffee shop with Bluey weeks ago. A time he enjoyed so much.

But also, Jean-Luc thinks about…that old friend…in such a happy moment, just like he had with Bluey.

Without knowing, Jean-Luc drifts apart to think about that joyful night.

---

Quebec City, Canada*

Amusement park Valentine Brothers*

1 year ago*

An air of family friendliness hovers over the park, the happy shouts of children, adrenaline-filled shouts from the adults on the roller coasters, and circus music sounding from the speakers around give the park an environment of happiness and good memories.

Carrying a massive plushie half the size of his body, 14-year-old Thatcher does his best to wave around the crowd of people going up and down the park, in search of his friends. He reaches a section of the park where there are small shacks where food is being sold, pizzas, chicken tenders, ice cream, and the typical fast food for every guest of the park.

"(Hey, pigeon!)"

Thatcher turned himself towards the muffled shout of his best friend, Louis, who is also 14 years old, and was sitting down drinking a cola slurpee.

"(Hey!)" Thatcher makes his way towards Louis, swinging his massive plushie around to see forwards and reach his friend with clashing with someone "(Where the fuck is that muffin!? Didn't he say he would be here!?)"

"(Oh, he is here)" Louis points at another table behind Thatcher with the straw of his cup. "(He is just cosplaying as Alexander the Great)"

Thatcher turned around, confused, until he realized what Louis meant.

On another table, with a shiny and illuminated carousel in the background, where the silhouettes of Jean-Luc and Lanny, who were talking, their smiles barely visible as their bodies swung around from the laughter.

"(Thats incredible, on my God)" Jean-Luc managed to say after laughing.

"(I know right!)" Lanny exclaimed, with one arm around her belly from laughing, after recomposing herself, she says to Jean-Luc, "(Hey, thanks for helping with my English Class, I don't know what I could have done if I failed it)"

"You are welcome," Jean-Luc says in English as he pretends to bow in front of Lanny despite being seated,

"Hahahaha"

Lanny laughs amicably, also causing Jean-Luc to laugh at the things he comes up with.

It's been 6 years since Jean-Luc and Lanny met each other, they instantly became inseparable close friends, and Thatcher and Louis didn't hesitate to get her into the group. The two blue dogs did everything together, from helping each other with homework or hanging around the city. It was theorized by the other kids that Jean-Luc and Lanny could be a romantic couple.

Something Jean-Luc secretly hoped for.

He started to feel something more than friendship with Lanny, and with the school dance on the horizon, Jean-Luc hoped Lanny would become his girlfriend after the school dance.

When Lanny looks like she is finishing laughing, Jean-Luc takes a deep breath, gathers courage, and asks his heart away.

"(Hey umm, the school dance is pretty soon, so I was wondering if you would like to be my date for the dance?)"

"Huh?" Lanny's eyes opened up, and without thinking much, she exclaimed, "(Of course! I wanna go to the dance with you, you are… cool, to be around)"

"(Really?)" Jean-Luc's eyes open too, his heart beating a thousand per hour.

"(Yeah, its gonna be awesome)" Lanny says calmly.

"(Yeah, really awesome)"

The two dogs kept looking at each other, Lanny with a calm, reassuring smile and Jean-Luc with a big smile and wagging tail. For the blue Labrador, it was a dream almost come true. He is gonna go to the school dance with the dog he has known a good chunk of his life, and will confess his feelings at the dance.

Under the soft lights.

With slow music.

And spending a wonderful time with-

---

"WATCH IT!"

"AHH!"

Jean-Luc's eyes open in startle, and he only sees for a fraction of a second the white ball coming to his head. He quickly ducks, and the ball passes over his head to land and roll on the grass behind him.

Present day*

Brisbane, Australia"

Local park*

The dark blue Labrador pants from the scare, watching the baseball, and feeling lucky for reacting as fast. He turns his head around and sees Sebastian trotting to get closer to him.

"Kumple!" the German Bracco exclaims as he gets closer, with his baseball mitt on his left hand. "What is wrong with you! Why are you so lost?"

"I don't know…" Jean-Luc answers unsurely, looking at the mitt Sebastian borrowed for him to play catch, "I'm fine, just need to wake up."

"No, you are not fine!" Sebastian shuts him down, "I almost sent you to the ER. Let's just join the girls."

Sebastian helps Jean-Luc get up, who reluctantly agrees. He takes off his mitt, and both guys walk to the nearby tree, where Kolina and Dalilah are. Kolina is reading a book about Australian recipes, while Dalilah is tuning her electric guitar, with her back against the tree trunk; however, both girls were looking at Jean-Luc after almost being drilled by the baseball.

"You sure you are ok, Jean-Luc?" Kolina asks, putting her book down.

"Yeah," Jean-Luc answers as he sits in front of Kolina, with Sebastian sitting next to him.

"Jean-Luc…" Dalilah speaks up, "We can tell it's not healthy if you are saving something."

"Ok, let's do this." Sebastian gets up, goes to the side of the tree, and from his baseball bag, he picks up a cooler with cool water. He returns to his place next to Jean-Luc to give him the bottle."You are gonna tell us what's happening."

"Why the water?" Jean-Luc asks

"The nerves," Sebastian simply says

"Alright," Jean-Luc grabs and drinks the water out of the cooler. After drinking, he noticed the gaze of his international friends, waiting for him to say something, "You guys really want me to say it, huh?"

"Yes," all three dogs respond.

"Just say the first thing on your mind," Kolina implores

"Alright, alright." Jean-Luc looks up, annoyed, before looking back at the trio and tells, "It's just…I'm thinking about my past, about this girl I met."

"Uyyyyy-Ouch." Kolina hit Sebastian with her elbow to make him shut up.

Jean-Luc sees the small scene, but continues, "I met this girl when I was 9 years old. We met on the very first day of third grade. That day we clicked, she was cool to be around. We graduated from primary school together, and we moved to the same school together. It was at that moment that I realized I was starting to fall for her. She was pretty, and she listened to me. I decided I was going to confess my feelings at the end of the school year dance. Something similar to prom. But ummm"

Sebastian, Dalilah, and Kolina lean in, waiting for Jean-Luc to continue.

"I…" Jean-Luc unsurely tries to speak, but can't do it as the memories of that disastrous dance reproduce in his mind.

---

Quebec City, Canada*

Tyler Allart High School*

End of school year party*

1 year ago*

The overlights illuminated the basketball court of the school, students of the 9th and 10th grade were having their school party before the 11th and 12th grade students would celebrate the real prom dance.

The DJ, an older student, was on a platform, playing popular music through the speakers. Since it wasn't a real prom, the organizers had bought pizza and sweets, such as donuts, for everyone.

Jean-Luc, Lanny, Louis, and Thatcher were dancing alongside their classmates with no fear of being judged, celebrating the end of their obligations as students before the start of summer.

As the two blue dogs keep dancing and dancing without control, Jean-Luc and Lanny accidentally end up clashing with each other. Jean-Luc giggled, and Lanny simply smiled amicably. Jean-Luc got close to speak to Lanny's ear to make sure she listened to him.

"(There is something I wanted to tell you!)" Jean-Luc says over the music.

"(What is it)!" Lanny yells back.

Jean-Luc takes a deep breath, and says "(We've been knowing each other since primary school! And during that time I started to feel something more than friendship! So I was wondering if I could be your Boyfriend!)"

Lanny rocks her head back in surprise, until she raises one finger and whispers something Jean-Luc understands as "Give me one second." The Picardy storms off towards the DJ, says something to the older student, and the music gets tuned down, gaining a few murmurs and complaints from other students. Lanny grabs a microphone from the DJ, takes a quick breath, and says into the mic.

"(Hello! im guessing you guys are wondering why I stopped the music)"

"(YEAH!)" Louis shouts, annoyed, and other students follow suit in discontent.

"(I stopped the music…)" Lanny explains on the DJ stage "(Because I wanted to bring the spotline to one of my childhood friends, Jean-Luc)"

One spotlight directs its light onto Jean-Luc, and some students around him give him space to avoid stealing his light. Jean-Luc looks at Lanny with a shining light; he couldn't believe it - his childhood friend had stopped the dance to dedicate it to him, like a true sign of love.

"(A labrador soo…) Lanny keeps talking through the mic "(Kind, smart and helpful)"

Jean-Luc's tail started wagging, barely containing the excitement.

"(But also…)"

Lanny's smile faded, to be replaced by a funny and evil smile.

"(He is the most oblivious, loser I ever meet in my life)"

Jean-Luc's body runs cold, his smile erased, and his tail stops dead. "(What?)"

Barely, Jean-Luc hears Louis screaming "(BEHIND YOU!)"

But it was too late…

A warm, sticky, and thick substance immediately covers Jean-Luc's shoulders and head, followed by the soft, dusty, and ticklish objects, and lastly a hit to the head, followed by darkness, echo, and laughter. It only took Jean-Luc a second to register that someone put a bucket on his head alongside the lightweight objects. He takes off the bucket with some difficulty to see what has happened to him.

Jean-Luc was covered in honey and feathers, around the spotlight where his fellow classmates, one of them being Lanny's other friend with a bucket, were laughing at his appearance, lost and empty, he looked at the DJ stand to see Lanny giggling with malice. When Lanny figures his eyes are on him, she speaks through the mic.

"(You really thought I could date an oblivious nerd like yourself? Especially after showing time and time again I wasn't interested in you!? You're a loser, Jean-Luc, you never had a chance. The only thing worth mentioning about you is that you help me and my friends pass the subjects. But other than that, you are just a pathetic excuse for a guy, Jean-Luc!)"

Jean-Luc looks at her with a betrayed look, after 6 years of friendship, or what he thought was a pretty friendship, ended up in humiliation and regret.

And he couldn't hold it anymore.

He turns and sprints out of the court, running and shoving through his classmates. Until he is in the clear and runs to the door.

"(Look at Jean-Quak Hahaha…)" Lanny laughs onto the microphone "(quack quack quack, Asshole)"

Thats all Jean-Luc hears after closing the gym doors and sprinting out of the school.

To run.

And run away.

---

"Actually…" Jean-Luc says after reliving that night again, "I really don't wanna tell this part of the story."

"Ah, yeah, thats fine."

"Yeah, I understand."

"We are not gonna pressure you."

All three dogs comfort Jean-Luc as he looks visibly disturbed.

"But…" Jean-Luc keeps telling, "It was recently that I started to have those memories again, of her and her appearance."

"Appearance?" Dalilah raised an eyebrow. "What does she look like?"

"She is a blue Picardy Spaniel…really similar to Bluey, but she has floppy ears instead of pointy ears like Bluey."

"Similar to Bluey, huh?" Sebastian looks at Kolina by the corner of his eye, "Looks like you have a type."

"A type?" Jean-Luc reacts confused.

"Yeah, like a characteristic you usually like in girls," Sebastian points at Kolina and asks Jean-Luc, "Tell me, do you think Kolina is pretty?"

The Labrador and the Vallhound look at each other, making unsure expressions until Jean-Luc says, "You are pretty, but you are not my type."

"Yeah…" Kolina also says awkwardly, "No offence, but you are not my type, plus my parents forbid me from dating."

"Ok…" Sebastian thinks until he asks again, "Let's do this. So, who do you think is the prettiest girl at school?"

"Ummmmmm"

Jean-Luc's eyes shift nervously. He fidgets to cope with his nerves and looks shyly at the three dogs in front of him.

"Well," he mutters, "I haven't really thought about it."

Sebastian grins. "Come on, dude. Everyone's got someone they think is the prettiest. Just the first name that pops into your head."

Jean-Luc closes his eyes.

Let go of his inhibition.

Take a deep breath.

And let his heart speak for him.

"Bluey."

The space between the exchange students under the tree falls silent as Sebastian, Kolina, and Dalilah take in what Jean-Luc just said.

"Bluey?" Kolina repeats, tilting her head.

"Yeah?" Jean-Luc murmurs, already regretting his openness.

"Knew it," Sebastian smirks. "I don't blame you, she is pretty."

"Kinda chaotic, but I understand," Dalilah comments.

"Ok, obvious question," Kolina playfully rolled her eyes to ask, "Why do you think Bluey is the prettiest in school?"

"Same thing, just let it out of your chest," Sebastian encourages.

"Ummmm" Jean-Luc hums to think, taking his second until he says out of his chest, "She is pretty, kind, helpful, she made a massive party for me, she took me to see the city, we talked and talked there, we have fun texting each other, she is not afraid to speak french to me, she is quite fearless and…"

"With her, I feel like she actually listens and talks back, unlike Lanny…"

"In some way…she is better than Lanny."

"Even though…"

"Bluey's fur reminds me of her."

"Or…"

"Lanny's fur reminded me of Bluey."

"Oh man"

Like the final pieces of a puzzle, Jean-Luc's eyes slowly open up as he slowly realizes the whole dilemma in his heart.

He never liked Lanny.

Thats the only reason he clicked with her; all this was because her fur reminded him of someone, especially someone he met in Australia 11 years ago.

And finally…he has his answer.

The fog inside his mind clears.

And whispers.

"I like Bluey."

"Huh?"

"Of course!" Jean-Luc beams with eyes totally open and a wagging tail as he volubles, "It's her. It's always been her. She's why I'm even here, She is awesome to be around, and I felt really good talking to her in that hangout to the park, and, and, and we sang together sooooo good in that party like ohhhh we were amazing and."

"Ok, calm down, Romeo," Kolina stops him.

"Ok, awesome!" Sebastian says happily, "Now you gotta invite her, test the terrain."

"Yeah, yeah, yeah." Jean-Luc slightly brings his arms up to tremble them, he looks down as his brain quickly figures out a good way forward until he nails something, "The lookout! Yeah, I could take her there; she said she wanted to eat ice cream, but we couldn't. I could take her there and buy her ice cream."

"Well, that's a start."

Dalilah rotates to reach her guitar to keep adjusting it, seemingly done with the conversation.

"Ok, sounds like a plan," Sebastian says

"Yeah! It's gonna be soooo good," Jean-Luc keeps volubing, "Me, Bluey, ice cream, seeing the city, laughing, sharing more of our life, talking about what happened recently, talking about our friends."

"Huh!"

As quickly as Jean-Luc rambled happily.

It stopped in front of a black and white wall called.

Mackenzie.

"Oh yeah…Mack" Jean-Luc says the joy in his voice faded.

"Mack?" Kolina questions, leaning her head to the side.

"Ahhh, who?" Sebastian does the same.

"Mack…or Mackenzie," Jean-Luc explains, "is the son of my host family, the border collie that did that haka that day. He is also in love with Bluey."

"Ohhhhhhhhhhh nooooooooooooo" Kolina leans back and shakes her head in denial, "Tills ni har löst det här, så vill jag inte ha något att göra med det"

Kolina grabs her book and stands up to walk to the nearest tree. With Dalilah ignoring the conversation, only Sebastian and Jean-Luc are the only ones to keep talking.

"Ahhhhhhh," Sebastian expresses with a long face, "I don't know, man."

"I really, but really don't wanna get in his business," Jean-Luc explains. "I already promised him I wouldn't make a move."

"But what if Bluey doesnt like him?" Sebastian says, "That maybe Mack is already in the friend zone."

"Ummmmmm" Jean-Luc put his index and thumb under his mouth to think.

Sebastian sighs and says with wisdom, "Look, I may not have a lot of experience in relationships, but Mom told me a relationship is a two-way street."

"Pff, what does that mean?" Jean-Luc complained

"That if Bluey wants a relationship with you and not Mack, she will make it work."

"Huh?"

"Kumple, I believe it's worth a shot, at least to know where Bluey's heart is."

"Yeah…" Jean-Luc leans back until he is lying down on the grass. "I guess we will see."

"Guys!"

Kolina comes over, holding her book to her side. "The mother of my host family is here to pick us up."

"Ok/Alright/Ok"

Jean-Luc, Dalilah, and Sebastian pick up their stuff and, alongside Kolina, they walk over to Kolina's host family's car, a white van.

Jean-Luc gets on first, and goes all the way to the back of the van to sit and look out at the park, thinking about his newfound feeling for Bluey, of how he is going to tell her his feelings, and how to avoid getting Mackenzie mad.

But also thinks back about Lanny, the treacherous Picardy who leaned on him for so long so he could do her homework, it's a memory that still hurts Jean-Luc. That night, after the cruel act of Lanny, he left like a warplane falling in flames before crashing down on an empty field.

A field he knows as the 'Round Table'

---

Quebec City, Canada*

Scott Camirand Retriver Memorial Park ("The round table")*

1 hour later*

*WHACK*

DING*

THWONG!*

"FUCK!"

Jean-Luc quickly lowers and raises his hockey stick in frustration to the circle around, after seeing his slap shot hit the top bar of the goal and hit the wall of the rink behind it.

Snow was slowly falling on Jean-Luc's disastrous night.

The ice rink he was in was rife with black pucks from missed attempts at scoring.

Using equipment other guys left around the place, Jean-Luc circles the rink, with his body partially covered in honey and feathers; he managed to get most of it off, but there were still remnants of Lanny's cruelty. After running off the school dance, Jean-Luc wanted a way to vent off everything he was feeling: Anger, betrayal, courage, refute Lanny and the rest that he is more than a tool to do homework.

And the only way he knew how was the hockey rink.

Jean-Luc snatches a puck from the other side of the rink with his stick, and he nimbly controls the puck until he reaches the halfway point of the rink. With a quick flick of his wrist, he shoots the puck towards the side wall to make it go around the back of the rink. A set of books located against the back wall makes a makeshift barrier to redirect the puck, going by the goal towards Jean-Luc.

Jean-Luc stops skating to glide, pivots to show his left shoulder forward, and raises his stick with both arms.

"AHHHHH!"

And snaps the stick downwards to shoot the puck.

*WHACK*

THWONG!*

"UGHHHHHHHHH"

Jean-Luc's shot failed to score, he grumbles and turns around to snatch another puck to try again.

As the troubled Labrador turns around to skate to get another puck, Louis and Thatcher sprint towards the ice rink, out of breath from trying to find Jean-Luc. They stop by the small bleachers near the entrance of the rink to see Jean-Luc skating towards the middle.

He glide

He turns to show his left side to the goal.

Raise his stick.

And shots with power towards the net

"AHHHH"

*WHACK*

*DING*

"UghhhhhhUGHHHHHHHHHHHHHH"

Jean-Luc's shot bounced off the top post of the goal and out of the rink. He grumbled until he started to pant from the effort. Slowly gliding towards the center of the rink.

"FUCKKKKKKKKKKKKKKK"

The scattered pucks around the rink showed Jean-Luc's improvised therapy session, showing his best friend he had been there a while, and now, he was tired…

To the point…

He cannot go any longer.

Jean-Luc let his stick drop onto the ice, his knees gave out, making him succumb onto the ice, the honey on him did its job of making the Labrador cooler of what he was already in, and small tears started to come out.

"FUCKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKK"

"JEAN-LUC!"

Louis and Thatcher scream, they quickly open the door into the rink, and while stumbling over their feet due to the ice. When Louis was close enough, he fell to slide towards Jean-Luc to hug him despite the honey and feathers on him, and Thatcher arrived shortly after, standing to hug both his friends. Jean-Luc buries his face into Louis' shoulder to cry out loud.

"Shhhhh," Louis murmurs as he starts to caress the back of Jean-Luc's head, "(Take it easy, we are here, man.)"

As Louis and Thatcher keep comforting Jean-Luc, he keeps crying onto Louis's shoulder.

Putting an end to such a traumatic night.

---

No matter if he got an average level of success playing Hockey, no matter if Alice and her program helped him get his mind off it.

Sometimes that night haunts him.

But a long time ago, he made peace with himself that the best way to stop overthinking it is to carry on.

For example, think about how to spend more time with Bluey without Mackenzie getting mad.

Southern Stars High School*

Present day*

It was the second Friday in S.S. for the Canadian student; the weekend is at the doorstep with an opportunity for Jean-Luc to invite Bluey to hang out.

After finding his biology book, he closes the locker with a thinking face, figuring out what to text Bluey. He felt more nervous than usual since this time, he was going to invite her with him, knowing he had feelings for her. Jean-Luc has been thinking about Mackenzie too; he could have him tag along with him and Bluey, but it would be difficult to talk to Bluey considering the Collie's feelings.

Whatever he had to do, it was going to be a master chess move.

However…a window appears, in the form of Bingo, who also has a thinking face, but she looks more disturbed than him.

Jean-Luc shifts his lips to the side and thinks "(Maybe I can tag Bingo along, that way Mack wouldn't be so on edge)" before calling her "Hey Bingo."

"Oh!" Bingo stops in her tracks upon being called, and with the same face of something is wrong, she approaches him, "Hey Jean-Luc, what's up?"

"Oh, um, I was thinking if we could get ice cream together in the lookout, you, Bluey, Mackenzie, and me"

"Ummmmmm." Bingo nervously avoids visual contact with Jean-Luc, "Probably not?

"Okay…maybe another day?" Jean-Luc suggests, slightly shrugging his shoulders.

"Im not sure…Bluey and I always have things to do after school, whether it's studying or hanging out with friends".

"But im your friend too," Jean-Luc says, unsure.

"Tsk, well yeah, but some of these things we've been planning for over a week, or sometimes our family really needs us, our schedule is really all over the place."

"Soooo," Jean-Luc rolled his eyes in a thinkable manner before saying, "I should ask Bluey when she can hang out with me."

"You can, but be warned, it might take a long time to come up with a date."

"How so?" Jean-Luc asks confused, leaning his head to his side.

"Ok, let me put it this way." Bingo raises one hand over her head with her palm aiming down, "Mom, Dad, Mack, and Lila are up here." Bingo then lowers the hand at the height of her mouth, "Chloe, Dougie, along with some others." Bingo then lowers her hand to her chest, "You are here."

"So…"

"It's gonna take a little bit," Bingo finishes for Jean-Luc, "It's not that you are non-important, it's just that we are needed somewhere else."

"But what about the time I hang out with Bluey at the park? Was I not important too?"

"That happened cuz Bluey really wanted to spend time with you after what? 11 years of that camping trip? So she definitely made some space in her schedule."

"Pffff." Jean-Luc awkwardly rolls his eyes around. He wasn't expecting to receive this kind of answer from Bluey's sister, but if there is anyone who knows Bluey better than him and her friends, it is Bingo. So Jean-Luc just replies, "Yeah, ok, I can wait."

"Ok!" Bingo says as if a lot of weight got off her shoulders, "Bluey and I will let you know if we are free."

"(Alright)" Jean-Luc murmurs in French, looking down in sadness due to the outcome of the conversation.

Bingo notices Jean-Luc's demeanor and says, "Look, don't take this so close to your chest, Bluey doesnt see you in those eyes."

"Eh?" Jean-Luc raises his gaze, "What do you mean by that?"

"Oh! Nothing important." Bingo answers nervously, "Look, I gotta go see a professor, and I can't be late."

"Ok?"

"See ya later, Jean-Luc!"

Bingo keeps walking forward, passing by Jean-Luc's locker, who follows her with his eyes with an inquisitive face.

"Bluey doesnt see you in those eyes."

"(What did she means by that?)" Jean-Luc thinks in French as he picks up his backpack, makes sure his locker is secure, and turns to walk the opposite way to Bingo.

"(it doesnt make a lot of sense)"

"('in other eyes…' did she imply that Bluey only sees me as a friend?)"

"(Thats so weird)"

"(Bingo acted so weird)"

"Eh?"

Jean-Luc stops dead in his tracks.

As the night under the snow in that ice rink plays in his head once again.

---

Surrounded by the arms of Louis and Thatcher.

The hockey stick near him had worn-down tape from many shots.

The pucks surrounding the three dogs are like daisies in the summer.

And his tears wetting Louis's fur.

Louis says in a low voice to Jean-Luc.

"(People will lie and cheat in order to obtain what they want from you…)
"(Dont forget that…)"

---

"!"

Like a switch

As if something changed within

Jean-Luc's floppy ears perk up, and he turns his head to look behind him in a snap with grinding teeth. Jean-Luc feels a familiar sense of action he hasn't felt since his last match in Canada.

Of course…

Bingo was acting weird to him.

This is the first time in 2 weeks he has heard about the Heeler sisters managing a "Schedule"

And Bluey? Being someone who would put him aside?

That doesn't make sense.

Bingo doesn't make sense.

With determination and a lingering anger from his days in the Canadian rinks. Jean-Luc turns around entirely to walk the other way…to follow Bingo.

She is hiding something

And he WILL find out.

Notes:

Referenserna (Yes, we're speaking Swedish now)

Jean-Luc's moment in the ice rink: I kid you not, I came up with this scene before Inside Out 2. so dont come at me that copy them, but Riley's morning training in the ice rink is the closest to that scene

And also i took inspiration from Kurt Bush's radio meltdown lol

MASSIVE THANKS for Redshift writer for being the beta for this chapter

And because of the cliffhanging ending, i will try to make the next chapter within the next two weeks or less (hopefully around 10 days)

Massive thanks to everyone who hits favorites or leave a review, you guys are the best.

See ya later

Chapter 20: Mom raised a... Part 2

Notes:

Well... Due to personal circumstances and drama on my end, this chapter took way too long to release, but at last we are here, i hope you got snacks with you

Quebec City, Canada*

Jean-Luc's house*

It's been a week since that dance.

Jean-Luc was mostly… Ok, but there were still remnants of humiliation within him.

Naturally, word spread about what happened within the high school circle.

Even after one week, Jean-Luc was the laughingstock of his classmates.

Fortunately…or unfortunately, Louis knew what to do.

The sneaky Husky approached the door, hunchbacked to reduce his silhouette, with one hockey stick in his left hand. The entrance of the door and the surrounding area of Jean-Luc's home had lots of snow on the ground and walls. Now, in front of the door, Louis pressed the doorbell.

DING…*

The sound trembles the house. Louis does little hops to cope with his anxiety, covering the bottom of his feet in snow, his tail wagging wildly. But after a minute of waiting, Jean-Luc opens the door to see his friend.

"(Hey bud!)" Louis greeted, "(Wanna play hockey today?)"

"Ughhh." Jean-Luc passes one hand over his face in annoyance, still with a dreading feeling from the dance, "(I don't know if I wanna do that)"

"(C'mon man, all the boys are going, and Antonie is bringing his full goalie gear)"

"(I don't know…) Jean-Luc swings his leg around in uncertainty, still thinking about the proposal.

"(Dude, you can't be in there the whole break)"

"(Yeah, but… I don't wanna deal with anyone right now)"

"(Nah, nah)" Louis slightly shakes his head "(We are starting to miss you over there, so get your skates and your stick, and get out of that house)"

"Ummmmmmm," Jean-Luc, with a deadpan face, hums to Louis

The husky gives a long sigh with eyes looking up defeated until he suggested, defeated, "(I will buy you a pineapple pizza after the game)"

"Ummmmmmmmm"

Jean-Luc looks up to think, and unexpectedly closes the door to go back inside. Louis frowns, annoyed. He reaches to hit the doorbell again, but the door opens again to reveal Jean-Luc with a hockey stick and a bag.

"(Ok, let's go)" Jean-Luc steps out of the house and walks past Louis.

"(Hooray)," Louis celebrated as he started following Jean-Luc.

---

30 minutes later*

"(Scott Camirand Retriver Memorial park…)"

"(A.K.A… The round table)"

"(It was the grand stage where we hockey players perform)"

"(We were all on an equal footing, playing under the same conditions.)"

"(No age or experience level to hinder us)"

"(Players from every neighborhood across Quebec City crisscross in this sheet of ice in search of glory)"

"(The only rule of playing is...to)"

"(DUDE!)"

Louis looks up at Thatcher's shout after tightening his skate, while Jean-Luc is already inside the rink, with the Labrador showing a neutral face and the Chihuahua with an annoyed look. Both guys are holding massive hockey gloves and sticks.

"(I get the Aurelian reference and the Ace Combat Zero reference, but can you shut up and get here, we are waiting for you)"

"Ugh, (Coming)"

Louis arranged his final touches to his skate before standing up from the player's bleachers and hopping onto the ice. Louis and Thatcher skate towards the other side of the rink to gather around with the other players, leaving Jean-Luc behind, who just skates slowly, contemplating the congregation of players.

Louis wasn't kidding; in the congregation were players of all ages, some teenagers like Jean-Luc and his friends, some others who were in college or had graduated from college, and some kids in their early 10s. Like Louis said, no age or experience hinders these guys.

Gliding smoothly across the thin sheet of ice, Jean-Luc looks around the park. The ice rink is situated inside a mostly flat park surrounded by the local neighborhood, with a small playground for kids and a tennis court. Snow covers the entire green space, which has only a few trees scattered throughout. The rink itself has just a spectator stand and three boxes for players—two for the teams positioned on one side in front of the stand, and another at the opposite end serving as the penalty box.

At last… Jean-Luc reached the congregation to join the conversation.

"(I hear Armand is finally getting married to his broad)," one teenager with one knee on the ice says.

"(Yeah, he invited me to his wedding)" a young adult standing upright says

"(And he didn't invite me?)" one kid, white and brown bulldog, sitting on the ice, says.

"(You are still a fetus, shut up you twatt)" one teenager says leading against the barrier

"(Your mom says otherwise)" The kid retorts.

"Ohhhhhhhhh"

"(Look who is here)," another teenager spoke up when he noticed Jean-Luc in the middle of his friends, "(You finally show up)"

"(Yeah, yeah)" "(Finally)" "(He came back from the death)"

Lots of guys murmur in response.

"(Dude, I'm sorry about what happened to you)" the teenager with one knee down says

"(Yeah, i always though Lanny was a bitch)" The kid comments carefree

"(Language!) Another teenager next to Louis shouts.

"(Suck my dick)," the kid talks back again.

"Hahahaha," the congregation laughs in unison.

"(Look guys)" Jean-Luc interrupts the moment, with a decayed face "(I came here to play because you guys missed me, so i don't wanna be reminded of Lanny or that dance)"

"(Who said we missed you?)" The kid says, leaning his head to the side.

"(Fucking kid)" "(Shut the fuck up)" "(You are a mistake!)"

Lots of guys respond simultaneously.

"(I just spoke facts, Geez) the kid looks away exasperated.

"(Ok…)" Louis takes control of the conversation, "(Who is going to be in which team?)"

"(First of all, who is going to be the referee?)" another kid questions.

"(I can be the ref)," the teenager leaning against the barrier answers the call.

"(Ok, ummmm Captains)?" Louis asks again

"(I can be the captain)," one teenager and one young adult speak up.

"(Ok, you guys move forward and select your team)" Louis instructs

Jean-Luc and company look at the two players who volunteer as captains, and one by one, as they choose their players. The Labrador looks down as his skates, swinging them to cut the ice below deep in though, the thin sheet of ice recalls Jean-Luc about that messed-up night he broke down crying, his face was dead, like a traumatized person, while inside his head, a mental battle was going on to push those bad memories and the person whom he thought he could trust away.

But his thoughts were interrupted by Louis, who called him to join Thatcher and his team. He skates towards the improvised team as the final preparations are taking place.

After everything is set, the two teams head to their respective side of the rink. Jean-Luc skates to be way in the back of his team's side to do his duty as a defender. Jean-Luc has been playing since he has memory, but it's not as good as his two best friends, so Louis and Thatcher deemed this position appropriate since Jean-Luc only has to defend the goal instead of the pressure of being a winger or a forward.

Going behind the team's goal to be in position, Jean-Luc shrinks in shame when he sees the small dents of pucks that impacted against the barrier several nights ago.

"(Hey buddy)"

Another player, the kid bulldog from before, skates up to be by his side. "(Heard everyone been talking to you and that bitch)"

"(Aren't you way too young to be saying this?)" Jean-Luc annoyingly thinks before answering, "(Heard the same thing too…it's getting annoying)"

"(Yeah, a lot of these guys really support you)"

"(I guess…that's good to hear)"

"(Yeah, I just hope I find that broad again to say several ugly things to her face)"

"(Please don't)" Jean-Luc murmurs, then skates to his position, leaving the kid behind, who also skates to his position parallel to Jean-Luc as a defender.

In the center ice, Louis, an opposing player, and the ref assume positions for the face-off.

"(Everyone ready?) The ref asks, standing in the middle of the two players.

"(As ready as about to fuck your mom, fucker)" Louis chirps as he leans forward, with stick ready for the face off.

"(You really kiss your mom with that mouth, loser?)" The other player responds as he assumes the same position as Louis.

"(You are both ugly)." The referee raised his mouth and whistled as he dropped the puck in the middle. With a quick snap. Louis and the player clash sticks, but the player manages to pass the puck to his teammate to start the game.

Everyone scattered and chased the puck, passing control and moving it from one end of the rink to the other. The young adults made their presence felt in the game with their experience, while the teenagers fought with sticks and shoves with valiant effort, as the younger kids sneakily managed to take control of the puck to pass it to someone else or attempt a quick shot.

Because of his position as a defender, Jean-Luc doesn't move a lot, only when he has to skate back and support his goalie when the adversary team has control of the puck. However, he managed to get control of the puck when it glided over to him after Thatcher poked check his adversary, the Labrador quickly skated to the other side, with only another player chasing him.

Unbeknownst to Jean-Luc, a player fell on the ice and struggled to get up. The referee whistles to stop the play.

"PHWEWWWW!"

But Jean-Luc is too focused on the play; he shoots with a quick snap of his wrist towards the net, slipping by an unaware goalie's left shoulder.

"HELL YEAH, GOT ONE!"

Jean-Luc screams in English, going around the goal to celebrate with his team.

But…

The only thing he saw was the player with his fist rapidly going for his face with no gloves on.

"OUCH!"

Jean-Luc learned an important lesson that day.

Do NOT shoot towards the net after the whistle.

---

The beginning of Jean-Luc's hockey career was plagued by rookie mistakes and moments when he wished to drop everything.

But it did teach him something.

The most aggressive, strong-willed dogs win competitions.

And that's a lesson that was easily applicable in his everyday life.

Or be as aggressive as you can be to win, or go home.

Heck, he even applied that in Bluey's welcoming party with all those games.

And considering what he deduced about Bingo moments earlier, he will make sure to get to the bottom of her mystery.

Southers Stars High School*

Present day*

The last bell sounded moments ago, dismissing everyone. A considerable number of students had already left, and the few remaining were still waiting for their ride or doing some after-school activities like hanging around with friends or visiting teachers for help.

Like Bingo…who Jean-Luc doesn't believe

He is still walking with determined steps through the halls with classrooms, his mind running with a thousand reasons why Bingo would act weird, until he reaches the main hall of the high school.

The main hall has clusters of students talking to each other. Jean-Luc looks side to side like a radar, filtering the massive amount of fur colors to spot Bingo's apricot fur.

Jean-Luc looks around until he spots two of Bingo's friends, Dougie and Lila. They weren't talking; they were communicating in sign language, and it looks like it's a fierce conversation. Something that was said during the welcoming party passed through Jean-Luc's head; they and Bingo were the only ones who could communicate in AUSLAN.

Nevertheless, he approaches them with his best face of friendliness. Lila and Dougie notice him with a perked-up eyebrow, and Dougie quickly puts on his cochlear device to listen. When he is close enough, Jean-Luc asks innocently, "Excuse me, have you guys seen Bingo?"

Dougie and Lila don't say anything, but Jean-Luc quickly notices they do an unsmiling frown and points at a hallway with more classrooms.

"(Gotcha)" Jean-Luc thinks in French, he turns back to the Cavapoo and Maltes to say, "Thank you," but both dogs just nod to then turn to each other to continue communicating in sign language with seriousness.

Jean-Luc ignores them and continues towards the hall where Bingo was last spotted. To figure out what Bingo is hiding.

He had to admit it. All of this could be a massive misunderstanding. Bingo could just be having a weird day.

And maybe this is one part of why Jean-Luc hates having this feeling of always accomplishing what he sets out to do, it did wonder the last couple of years when he finally learned English and set himself up to be an exchange student.

But he knew the day that feeling intensified… all because of one guy.

---

Quebec City, Canada*

Scott Camirand Retriever memorial park 'The round table'*

One year ago*

The sun had already hidden over the horizon, and the lights overhead the rink were already turned on.

Jean-Luc was sitting on the player's bench with a black eye from the kid's punch, wrapping the toe of the hockey stick with tape, a cheap way to extend the Hockey stick's lifespan. Thatcher was already on the Ice. Louis invited both dogs to hang out in the rink to practice, but he is missing. Thatcher skates and glides outside the bench with a bored face until he says.

"(Where the fuck is Louis?)"

"Idunno"

Jean-Luc simply replies in English, with a lost look towards the tape, gaining a confused look from the chihuahua.

"(French please?)"

"Pff." Jean-Luc blows a quick raspberry before he answers. "(I don't know where the fuck is he)"

"Ugh (Alright)"

Thatcher answered with no enthusiasm; he kept slowly skating side to side in front of the player's bench, moving his head and stick around to cope with boredom, but after a few minutes, he asked.

"(So what are you going to do now that Lanny isn't your friend anymore?)

"Uhhh," Jean-Luc stops wrapping the toe of his stick to answer, "(I don't know…just move on, I guess… Or maybe seek revenge?)"

"(I like the sound of that)," Thatcher says softly. "(Maybe…)"

"(Maybe nothing)"

Thatcher looks beyond the player's bench, and Jean-Luc looks behind him to spot Louis walking towards them with a stick and a bag with his hockey equipment.

"(I heard Lanny pulled out of Tyler Allart to move somewhere else)"

"Really?" Jean-Luc whispers in English.

"(What do you mean she moved?)" Thatcher asked shocked.

"(Her family, instead of re-enrolling her for next year)," Louis talked as he got inside the player's bench to be next to Jean-Luc. "(They told the school they are moving to another city)"

"(Which city?)" Jean-Luc asked.

"(I'm not sure, but she is going to be far away from Quebec City)," Louis says as he drops his bag on the floor and begins pulling out his gloves and skates.

Thatcher stops in front of the player's bench and leans forward to ask Louis, "(And how do you know about this?)"

"(Because I told him)"

Thatcher looked up, and Jean-Luc again looked behind him towards the voice. An adult golden Retriever, with a red hat of the logo of Tyler Allart's hockey team, approaches the three teenagers.

"(Who is this guy?)" Thatcher simply asked, index pointed at him.

"(Coach Garrison)," Louis says as he sits and starts putting on his skates, "(Or Coach Garry, he is the newest coach of the hockey team)"

"Huh…(Nice to meet you, sir)" Thatcher greets as Garry steps inside the player's bench.

Jean-Luc looks at him with unfamiliarity. It's not unusual for the school to get new coaches every year after they led the team to the bottom of the standings, so his hopes were low from the start—another coach likely to be dismissed by year's end. So, Jean-Luc goes back to wrapping tape.

"(So what brings you here?)" Thatcher asked, a little bit more animated by the arrival of the adult.

"(Louis told me you guys usually practice here)," Garry said as he put down his bag and hockey stick, "(Also, he told me that someone I need to talk to is here)."

Jean-Luc felt how Garry's eyes landed on him; he stopped mid-wrapping, raised an eyebrow, and finally turned his head towards him, to see that, indeed, the Retriver was looking at him.

Garry leans into the barrier to be diagonal to Jean-Luc to look at him, he crossed his arms to look cool and says in a comfortable tone, "(Are you alright, buddy?)"

"Ugh (I'm fine)." Jean-Luc displeased, still wrapping the stick's toe until he cuts it with his teeth to finish. "(Tired of people mentioning the dance)"

"(No, i mean, your eye)"

"Oh," Jean-Luc hovers his hand over the eye he got struck, he puts it down to say, "(Im fine, I forgot about the 'not scoring after the whistle' secret rule, so another guy punched me in the face."

"(Rookie mistake)" Garry shrugs his shoulders, "(I was also there during the dance, on the sidelines, I'm sorry for what happened to you)"

"Pfff." Jean-Luc blows another quick raspberry. He murmurs in annoyance, "(Everyone says the same thing, I wish I could be better with just words, but unfortunately, we are not in that world)"

"(Words can be powerful if you believe them)" Garry wisely said.

Jean-Luc's eyebrows shot up, and leans back and looked at Garry to say, "(Are you gonna stand there and give me cheap motivational phrases?)"

"(You can't tell an elder to not act like one)"

"(You are not an elder, you are a busybody who is getting dropped at the end of the school year)"

"(A wise busybody with strong will of not getting dropped at the end of the season, if i can call myself that)"

"Huh," Jean-Luc leans back, amused. This guy knows how to respond. "(So are you just here to do a welfare check like if I'm a pussy from Pawddit)"

"(Yes…)" Garry leans his head to one side. "(But not really)" Garry tilts his head to the other side before moving his head straight. "(You see, another thing you should know, is that I also watched you here in this park doing clap shots after storming off the school)"

"Oh!" Jean-Luc's pupils opened, feeling exposed; only Louis and Thatcher knew about his moment in the rink, so Garry's confession made Jean-Luc feel shame. "(Eh ummm, o-okay?)"

"(And…) Garry keeps talking "(I'm here to present you and Thatcher with an opportunity)"

"(An…)" Jean-Luc reacted with a semi open mouth, "(Opportunity?)"

"(Yeah, your technique with the clap shots is pretty good and Louis told me that you and Thatcher are pretty good players with years of experience already)"

Jean-Luc briefly looks at Louis, who slightly shrugs his shoulders with a nervous and comfortable smile. The Lab turns back to look at Garry for him to continue.

"(So I was wondering if you would be interested in joining the high school's hockey team, 'The Guardians of Tyler Allard High School)"

Jean-Luc stays quiet, mouth semi-open, and leans back on his seat. Despite playing Hockey with his friends for a good chunk of his life, he never wanted to play seriously, unlike Louis, Thatcher, and the little leagues. So a proposal like this hits him like the punch he got days prior.

"(I'm in, no questions asked)" Thatcher beamed, with his tail starting to wag.

"(Man)," Louis calls him, already on the ice rink and facing Jean-Luc, "(Think about this, if you join, people are gonna forget about the dance)"

"(You are gonna be respected, at the very least)" Thatcher added.

"(You are a pretty good player Jean-Luc)" Louis keeps adding "(I wouldn't have recommended you to Garry if that wasn't the case)"

"(And we get to play together)"

Thatcher mentions pointing at himself and Louis quickly.

"(Look)" Garry says, gaining the attention of Jean-Luc "(I believe you can do well, I see the potential in you, and I do believe this will be beneficial for you)"

Jean-Luc keeps looking at the three dogs in awe, still considering his options.

Until he took a deep breath…

In front of a brave new world.

---

It's been over a year since Jean-Luc met coach Garry and accepted his proposal.

It was definitely a life-changing experience.

Playing professional hockey with his friends against other schools.

Traveling across Canada.

Those moments were when they snatched victory out of the jaws of defeat.

And the lessons he learned from Coach Garry.

Like… How to have that winning mentality.

Something that made him reach far.

And probably the reason he is in this situation.

Present day*

After walking for more than 4 minutes, Jean-Luc finally spots Bingo's back walking towards the other end of the hall, walking with a slight tension in her legs and feet, corroborating Jean-Luc's suspicion, who keeps a safe distance from her.

When Bingo reaches the end, she slows down and makes the right turn towards one of the classrooms and quickly gets inside the room. With curiosity at its max, Jean-Luc does little hops to get close as quickly as possible and reads the title of the room.

"Professor Homestead"

"Chemistry class"

"Umm mm"

Jean-Luc hums. Chemistry was one of those classes students would attend after school to review whatever they didn't understand, so going there makes sense — but not entirely. The Labrador contemplates putting his ear near the door to listen to what's going on the other side of the door.

But…

The door was slightly open.

Open enough for him to see inside.

With determination, curiosity, and nervousness. Jean-Luc leans forward to allow his right eye to see inside the room.

The Chemistry room has 6 long rectangular tables for group projects and the typical front of the classroom with the teachers' desk, whiteboard, and posters about the subject.

And there she is, Bingo is giving her back to the entrance with her backpack next to her feet as she stands in front of one of the tables.

And the big revelation.

Rusty, Lucky, Judo, Snickers, Missy, Buddy, Harley, and Juniper are around the table, looking at Bingo, who puts both her hands on the table and says.

"Please tell me everyone did what they were supposed to do."

"Yup," Rusty and the rest nod. "I got Bluey to help me with social studies."

"I told Bluey if she could help me with some karate kicks next week, and she said yes," says Harley.

"I told Bluey if we could get our nails done on Monday, and she said yes," Says Judo.

"Told Bluey if she could tag along with the Terriers and Winton next weekend, and she agreed," Snickers says.

"So Bluey is pretty much busy the entire week," Lucky adds.

"Good," Bingo adds, still showing unsettled.

"Ehhhh", Missy sounds off, unsure, gaining the look of everyone around the table, "I haven't asked Bluey to help me with English class today after school."

"What!" Bingo interjects, causing Missy to shrink in fear. "Holy shit, Missy, we've been planning this for over a week, a week! Every second counts, Missy, every second! Do you even realize how much is riding on this? If Bluey's free even for one afternoon, she is gonna do her own thing. If Bluey can spend as much time as possible with Mack, then he can make his move, or he will wait and wait. And then what? We will lose!."

"I'm sorry," Lucky voices out in defense, with both hands on the table and leaning forward, "But aren't you being a little overdramatic about this?"

"Eh!" Bingo shakes her head back, stunned, "Overdramatic!? Really!?"

Everyone at the table falls silent, Lucky still firm.

"You really see this situation and think this is not a big deal!?" Bingo authoritatively taps the table with her finger. "This is our endgame. We cannot wait any longer for Mack, we gotta push him to declare his feelings for Bluey, or 11 years of hard work will go down the drain."

"11 years?"

Jean-Luc thinks stunned, pupils opening up.

11 years? Mackenzie has been trying to date Bluey for 11 years?

Unbelievable.

Jean-Luc mentally shakes it off to keep listening.

"This is now or never; this could be our last chance to get those two together."

Bingo finishes saying, with everyone around her still with neutral faces.

"Here is something I don't get." Judo starts talking, "Why do you care about this?"

"Because im his friend," Bingo express, "And you guys know I would rather see Bluey with Mack rather than with Jean-Luc."

Some dogs nod, some others just stay quiet, their silence expressing a thousand words. Jean-Luc feels a pinch of anger at her words.

Bingo takes a deep breath, collecting herself before continuing slowly.

"We cannot wait any longer. No more delays. Bluey has to end up with Mack. She has to. That is the only way this story will end, and a Canadian will not mess up 11 years of this."

Jean-Luc, still leaning forward to see with his eye through the gap, feels his chest tightening. The words eleven years circle in his mind, sharpening his brain each time.

Eleven years?

That's impressive, how could someone spend 11 years and not say anything? He knew Mackenzie was shy and was afraid to confess himself to Bluey.

But eleven years?

That's ridiculous.

Like…

"I hope so."

Mackenzie's warning the day he reunited with Bluey flashed in his memory, reminding him of the heated conversation he had with the Border-Collie.

His questions were loaded with anger.

And his answers were filled with fear.

All because Mackenzie saw him as a threat.

The more he thinks about that conversation, the more ridiculous it is for Jean-Luc.

After everything he said to Mackenzie, after the bro conversations, after seeing Mack and Bluey happy and expressing his wish to see them together.

All went up in smoke with the astonishing discoveries that Mackenzie had been having feelings for Bluey for 11 years and wanted him out of the picture.

Eleven years…of nothing.

Eleven years…of cowardice.

Jean-Luc frowns in anger, grinding his teeth, feeling disrespected about the discovery and the argument Mackenzie had with him. He had his own set of worries after the argument, but he never felt anger, and now he has a reason to feel that way.

But as anger consumes Jean-Luc, Bingo's voice sounds off.

"Since Missy is not going to keep Bluey busy, then… I'm gonna convince Bluey to do something with me, like homework or watch a movie."

"Yeah, maybe…" Rusty speaks, "I can come by with Indy to spend time with you girls."

"Ok!" Bingo's ears slightly jump just as her tone, "Now I just gotta talk to Bluey to make sure she is not doing anything today."

"Ummmm"

Jean-Luc hums, slowly walking away from the door with a serious frown.

Mackenzie really, but really, went as far as arguing against him, just because he couldn't confess his feelings for Bluey in eleven years.

And Bingo and her crew? Now it was clear why Bingo acted the way she did. She wanted to push him away to clear the way for Mackenzie.

Now in anger, Jean-Luc turns around after backing off enough and sets sail towards the main hall.

With a clear objective in his mind.

Just like St John the previous year.

---

St John, Newfoundland, Canada*

Recreational center of St John*

Locker room*

1 Year ago*

The smell of sweat and used equipment fills the air as the players of the Guardians of Tyler Allard prepare for a match in unfamiliar territory, checking their stakes, uniforms, and their sticks, or performing last-minute personal rituals or prayers before stepping out.

Jean-Luc, now a fully fledged player with professional experience in hockey, was putting on his skates to ensure they were tight before putting on his jersey and helmet.

"(Hey, Jean-Luc)"

Louis's voice made Jean-Luc raise his head to find him standing in front of him, but sideways, as if about to walk off.

"(You should take a look at this)"

Louis handed him his cellphone, already unlocked. Jean-Luc grabbed it to see a post on Instapaw, featuring one photo of a team and a female figure posing for the shot, but the girl, a blue dog, was hugging sideways one of the players.

Jean-Luc's eyebrows didn't take long to jump after something in his brain made clicked.

The girl in the photo.

Is Lanny…

"(OK TEAM!)" a seasoned coach Garry shouts as he enters the locker room, making everyone in the room except Jean-Luc to look at him "(Very special game tonight, The Seagulls of St John are not to be taken lightly, these people pretty much dominated the leaderboard in this side of the country so don't get your guard down and expect everything)"

"(Ok, I'm gonna mention the names of the first shift)"

"(Louis, you ready!?)"

"(Ready Goldie!)" Louis shouts, still standing, with Jean-Luc still looking down at the cellphone.

"(Good cuz you are going)"

"YAA HOO!"

The entire locker room trembles with the affirmative battle cry and a singular clap, right before Garry continues.

"(Thatcher you ready!?)"

"(Ready sir!)" The chihuahua shouts, putting his jersey on.

"(Good, cuz you are going!)"

"YAA HOO!"

"(Palmer you ready!?)"

"(As ready as I will ever be!)" A bulldog terrier shouts.

"(Good, cuz you are going!")

"YAA HOO!"

"(Best goalie in the league, Mcknight, you ready!?)"

"(You damn right, Goldie!)" The Canadian Eskimo teenager shouts, his body covered in the typical goalie protection for the role.

"(GOOD CUZ YOU ARE GOING)"

"YAA HOO!"

"(JEAN-LUC!)" Garry addressed the Labrador, "(You ready!?)"

But the teenager keeps looking at the screen with the photo of the team and Lanny, his hand tightening in anger; the feeling of honey, feathers, and the cold of the night returns to him as a painful reminder that all the happy moments he spent with the Picardy end up in humiliation.

Jean-Luc frowns.

This is his revenge

"(Yes, I'm ready)"

---

The minutes before the match at St John and the discovery of Mackenzie and Bingo's secret were awfully similar.

An unwavering determination to stand on business, of showing he is capable.

With steps filled with purpose, and swinging his head around like before, Jean-Luc walks towards the main hall of the school in search of a blue heeler. With the information provided by Bingo's big mouth, Jean-Luc knew what needed to be done.

He is going to send it and invite Bluey to hang out today before Bingo talks to her to keep her busy for the day.

His fears of being seen as a creep who traveled around the world for a girl vanish in thin air as he lets his feelings run wild and free.

He loves Bluey.

A liberating feeling that feels so good, now that he no longer cares about what a Border Collie thinks.

He is actually doing it, he is following his heart and trying and date Bluey.

Luckily for him, it didn't take long to find her.

His heart skips a beat when he spots a blue back with a single dark blue circle on it, filling his heart with a comfortable warmth. Talking to Luna, the black Labrador who is his locker neighbor, and Mackenzie, the guy who, in his eyes, is now seen as a coward.

Jean-Luc approaches, enough to hear Mackenzie saying,

"So I was wondering if-"

"(Not on my fucking watch)"

Jean-Luc thinks quickly in French, swiftly gives a long step, and sneaks between Bluey and Mackenzie, without a care in the world about what he is going to do to his housemate.

"Hey, how is it going, guys?" Jean-Luc greeted amicably, purposefully facing Bluey and giving his back to Mackenzie.

"Oh, hey neighbor," Luna greeted the newcomer.

Bluey rolls her eyes and whispers gladly in French, "(Thank you for coming)"

"Uhhh, Hey Luke," Mackenzie leans out to be able to see Bluey and says, "What brings you here?"

"Oh," Jean-Luc finally turns to see him too, using every bit of acting he has to hide his anger towards him. "I just wanted to ask Bluey something."

"Huh?" Mackenzie leans his head to the side, confused

"What is it?" Bluey asks

"Soooo," Jean-Luc turns to face Bluey, ignoring his feelings of shame, and shoots away without a care Mackenzie is there, "So, considering it's the weekend, I was wondering if we could go eat ice cream at the lookout, just the two of us. Since we didn't get to enjoy one together that day in the park."

"Ummmm"

Bluey hums to think, considering the proposal.

Deep inside Bluey… It was perfect; this is her opportunity to dig deep into her feelings for Jean-Luc to see who to choose between him and Mackenzie.

So Bluey nods and says, "Yeah, sounds good, I got the afternoon free anyway."

"Oh, awesome!" Jean-Luc exclaims, with his tail wagging, without noticing that it was hitting Mackenzie's body.

"So it's a date?" Luna chips in on the conversation.

"Ummmmm," Jean-Luc answers first, "It's just gonna be like a friends-only kinda deal."

"Ehhh, yeah!" Bluey answers after, "Just talking, enjoying Ice Cream."

Luna looks slightly down and notices both Jean-Luc and Bluey's tails wagging. "Ok"

"Pss." Mackenzie leans out of Jean-Luc's figure again and questions, "Ehh, Bluey, can I talk to Luke for a minute?"

"Oh, Bluey's tail stops wagging. "Yeah, sure, I still gotta deal with this baka."

Bluey rolls and looks by the corner of her eye at Luna, who insultingly put a hand on her chest, face down, and looks up like saying, 'What did I do to you?'

"Awesome," Mackenzie forcefully adds with a fake smile, so fake Jean-Luc can feel it. Mackenzie grabs Jean-Luc by one arm and makes him walk with him. After gaining distance from the two girls, Mackenzie whispers angrily, "We really need to talk."

For the white and black dog, the image of the dog he thought could be a friend is demolished inside his mind as a rampant monsoon of emotions runs amok. Anger, frustration, sadness, jealousy, betrayal. But one individual is the ire of all of it: Jean-Luc.

For the dark blue dog, who has a confident smile on his face, knew why Mackenzie is doing this. He broke the rule he set up from the beginning, don't try to make a move on Bluey.

Can he blame him? He just asked the girl he really likes on a supposed date in front of him.

And he didn't care at all.

He is going to tell him how much of a loser he is.

Just like the loser he faced in that match in St John.

---

Recreational center of St John*

Locker room*

1 Year ago*

The team tiredly comes back in silence to the locker room after a long, grueling match.

The Guardians won 5-0 against the Seagulls, solidifying their place in the leaderboard and one step closer to winning the championship.

Jean-Luc, without knowing where he was getting the energy to walk on his skates, without his helmet and jersey, made his way to a clear space to sit on a bench. He let himself drop with a groan. His vision blurred as he tried to regain his senses and recover; the game had completely exhausted him due to his contribution.

His hands shake… Jean-Luc doesn't register why…

"(Hey)"

Jean-Luc, with all his strength, looked up to Louis, who still had his jersey on, looking down on him. Louis dropped to be at the same height as Jean-Luc and said.

"(You did good out there, regardless of what happened, okay? Mom raised a guardian, not a coward)"

With that, Louis taps Jean-Luc's shoulder in companionship before standing up and walking away. Leaving Jean-Luc stunned.

He noticed his hands shaking.

He looks down at his hands, his open palms.

To see them painted in maroon.

Jean-Luc's pupils shrank.

It finally registers to him.

It was blood.

From another dog.

---

"So what happened in St John?"

Tommy takes a break from eating ramen to ask the Eskimo. He and Alice are sitting inside the principal's office to enjoy another day after school.

"I know the official reports said, but…" Tommy taps the edge of the top of his cup with his stick in anticipation. "What really happened with Jean-Luc that night?"

Alice finishes swallowing her portion of ramen to answer humbly, "From what Jean-Luc's best friends told me, he found out that the girl who wronged him moved to St John. They showed him the pictures of her and the Seagulls close together, as if the girl was dating one of the players. So Jean-Luc took this opportunity to get his revenge by playing like he played that night.

"Oh boy…"

"Yeah…" Alice continued with a slight worry in her eyes. "He got summoned by the league to talk about that match, but they didn't suspend him or anything… but it was a real fear back then."

"Jean-Luc injured 3 guys and sent one guy to the hospital with a broken nose."

"And… he didn't care at all"

"No remorse"

---

No remorse is what he is gonna show Mackenzie.

Jean-Luc and Makenzie arrive at an empty art classroom, where the teacher has already left. Mackenzie opens the door, and Jean-Luc walks in there with a little swag in his steps. His heart is beating with force, knowing what's about to come down, but he keeps his calm.

This is going to be liberating for him.

Mackenzie enters the room and takes a peek outside to make sure no one is nearby. With the coast clear, he closes and locks the door.

"What the fuck is wrong with you?!" Mackenzie turns and walks rapidly and menacingly towards Jean-Luc, "You said you were not going to make a move with her!"

"(You gotta be fucking kidding me)," Jean-Luc murmurs in French before turning to face Mackenzie and saying mockingly, "I didn't make a move on her, I just invited her to eat ice cream today like friends."

"YOU ASKED HER ON A DATE!"

Mackenzie taps Jean-Luc's chest with his index, and Jean-Luc shoves it out of the way with force.

"SO WHAT!?" Jean-Luc exclaims, "IT'S A HELLUVA LOT BETTER THAN WHATEVER YOU DID IN ELEVEN YEARS!"

"WHAT!" Mackenzie exclaims surprise. "How did you-?"

"MOTHERFUCKER, YOU HAD YEARS TO GET WITH HER YOU FUCKING KIWI," Jean-Luc shouts.

"Don't insult me!"

"I'M INSULTING YOU CUZ YOU DID SOMETHING DUMB!"

Jean-Luc shouts, getting his face closer to Mackenzie, who rocks his head back.
"Because holy shit dude!" Jean-Luc shouts exasperatedly, "How! Is it! Possible! That after eleven years you still haven't said shit to Bluey and on top of that, you told me in my fucking room to step aside because you want Bluey ALL BY YOURSELF!"

"BECAUSE I HAD FEELING FOR HER MY ENTIRE LIFE!"

"PFFFFFFF"

Jean-Luc scoffed, near laughing.

"Holy shit, man… You are so pathetic, I'm surprised Bluey still wants to hang out with you. Don't you think it's unfair that you are entitled to her and no one can go after her!?"

"And you!?" Mackenzie answers in anger, "What kind of piece of-"

"HUH!"

Jean-Luc interrupts Mackenzie out of the blue, and the latter frowns and continues.

"What kind of piece of shit are you, who doesn't keep their promises, you PROMISE ME, YOU TOLD ME, you don't have feelings for Bluey! So what's this!? A joke or what!"

"Oh ho ho ho," Jean-Luc wags this index in a joking manner, "You see, that's where you are wrong."

"I always…had feelings for Bluey, I just didn't understand what it was. But she was the reason I woke up every morning to study my ass off, she was the reason I learned this language to be here, she was the fucking reason why I became an exchange student and traveled across oceans to talk to her again. And now I see. I always LIKED Bluey, and I'm not going to stand around like you and your squad of minions do."

Mackenzie's eyes shot up, and he immediately understood he was talking about Bingo and his friends.

"I worked," Jean-Luc starts enumerating with his fingers, "I studied, I bled for MY fucking team, while you sit on your ass and wonder when your stupid dream is gonna be a reality."

Jean-Luc's face gets closer to Mackenzie's face, still with an air of tension.

"And I'm gonna follow my heart, and I'm gonna date Bluey and be the boyfriend she deserves to have."

"!"

Mackenzie grabs him by his shoulders, lifts and turns him to slam him onto the nearby table, generating a thunderous sound of metal and wood, with Jean-Luc pinned down under his hand, Mackenzie raises his right fist, ready to strike."

"DO IT!" Jean-Luc extends his arms, letting himself be exposed to his housemate, "PUNCH ME! MAKE MY DAY!"

Mackenzie tightened his fist, ready to liberate.

"YOU DON'T HAVE THE BALLS TO DO THIS!"

Mackenzie raised Jean-Luc with his other arm and slammed him again against the table beneath him. A sting of pain courses through Jean-Luc's upper back.

"HOW ARE YOU GOING TO EXPLAIN THIS TO YOUR MOTHER, HUH! SHE LOVES ME!"

Mackenzie creeps his left hand under Jean-Luc's mouth, applying pressure upward to silence him. Jean-Luc finally grabs Mackenzie's left arm to hold it and alleviate pressure, but keeps yelling.

"YOU DON'T WANNA DO THIS, PUSSY!"

Mackenzie tightens his fist, visibly shaking due to the force.

"HOW ARE YOU GOING TO EXPLAIN TO BLUEY YOU PUNCH ME, HUH! HOW ARE YOU GOING TO EXPLAIN YOUR INCOMPETENCE!"

Jean-Luc and Mackenzie locked eyes; both sets were filled with anger. A friendship that started well is now crumbling due to jealousy and betrayal over the feelings of a girl.

Mackenzie's fist raised high, Jean-Luc challenging him to strike with his eyes.

But the Border-Collie's iris loses their fire…and let his fist drop with a groan.

Mackenzie let go of Jean-Luc and stepped away, fuming. Jean-Luc's words beat him into reason; he can't explain why he punched Jean-Luc without looking bad. The dark blue Labrador stands up and accommodates his fur on his chest to then say.

"That's the main difference between you and me," Jean-Luc spoke up calmly with a light weight of mockery as Mackenzie kept looking at him furiously. "My mom didn't raise me to be a coward; unfortunately, I can't say the same about you."

Jean-Luc strolls towards the exit with an air of smugness, "Now, if you excuse me, I have a date to attend to."

The Labrador unlocks the door without looking and smoothly gets out of there, leaving a messed-up Mackenzie behind. Breathing heavily, his nerves taking over him, his eyes bouncing everywhere in panic until.

"AHHHHHHHHH"

Mackenzie flips over the nearby table upside down, grabbing his ears in annoyance.

Outside the classroom, Jean-Luc walks nonchalantly far from the place, but in front of him is Bluey, approaching him.

"Hey, where is-?"

"Shhhh"

Jean-Luc shushes her and expertly turns Bluey around with a single movement of his arm, leaving his hand on the lower back of Bluey's side, unexpectedly blushing Bluey.

"Mackenzie is on a call with someone," Jean-Luc simply lied as he directed Bluey towards the exit.

Behind him, the door where Mackenzie is located opens out, the black and white dog steps with an even angrier facade to spot him, Jean-Luc turns his head around to look at him but doesn't react, he just smiles snugly, with his other hand, he shows him the middle finger to spite him even more as he and Bluey disappeared between the students of the school in the eyes of Mackenzie.

Jean-Luc doesn't know it yet.

But the longest hockey match of his life…just started.

Notes:

¡Las referencias boludo!

The round table: As Thatcher said, it is an Ace Combat Zero reference. Scott is the name of the first golden retriever I ever met in my life, and Camirand is simply a cool last name.

The locker room scene: make it three references to Shoresy in this story lol

Luna: She is inspired by my real-life dog, and nope, this aint the last time you are going to see her in this story.

Massive thanks to Red_Shiftwriter for being the beta these last two chapters, he help a lot when it comes to putting both chapter together and also helped a little bit with the argument scene, seriously the coolest guy here in AO3

Well im gonna take a break from this story to fix some stuff (again, the spanish version sucks) and im gonna focus on some other projects.

If you wanna stay in contact with me and some other authors in the Bluey fandom, then join my discord server in the notes below to stay up to date.

Kudos if you like what you are reading and comment your favorite part of this chapter.

And see ya till the next time.

Notes:

If you wanna hangout with some of the writers and artists of this fandom, or be up-to-date with any updates.

Then I formally invite you to Artist's Den 42 https://discord.gg/XucwQwNfHt

My discord server focused on writers, artists and good vibes. I hope to see you there!

Series this work belongs to:

• Part 2 of Chronicles of the Clash