As the laughter subsided and the group settled into a playful mood, Angel, with his distinctive pompadour hairstyle, stood up with enthusiasm. Gesturing to the rest of the group, who were engaged in a handstand challenge with Kel, he spoke up:
"Hey everyone!!! It's been great sharing about ourselves and bonding over our furry friends. Now, I propose we settle the score and find out which group has the strongest member!"
The challenge sparked excitement among the group as they prepared for some friendly competition.
Kel's competitive spirit shone through as he effortlessly performed a handstand with just one hand. With a playful grin, he addressed Angel's challenge:
"Oh, are you sure you want to compete with me, Angel? You might be in for a surprise!"
Angel smirks "You bet—" still use both hands for handstand despite still almost wobbily.
As the rest cheered on their own groups (while Aubrey just smiles how everyone is bonding)
Then , Aubrey whispers to a quiet hooligan Charlie or her first real name Charlene to say "wait….You aren't a single child so….Why did you considered yourself one despite having one of of your siblings that is the older brother you just called 'Creepy Guy' and 5 other older siblings you talk about much?"
Charlie leans in slightly, her gentle demeanor contrasting with her unusual nickname for her sibling. "Well, it's a bit complicated," she begins, her voice soft but earnest. "Most of my siblings are much older, and they were already out of the house when I was young. I grew up mostly alone, except for my brother, who stayed but... well, he's a bit eccentric and distant. So, in a way, I felt like an only child, especially since I didn't interact much with the others until later." She offers a sheepish smile, hoping Aubrey understands the nuances of her family situation.
She nods , as Charlie fiddles with her fingers "besides I felt it's also nice right? I can relate to mostly to you and Basil anyways than the rest of both groups that has their own sibling-like familial connections…"
As Mikhael overheard with Kim and nods.
Vance added curious with Aubrey next "Say Aubrey…..I need some clarification of memory when did you had the idea to bother one of your old childhood friends who's erm a shut-in (Sunny/Susumu Miyamoto) for these past 4 years apart before now to be convince to be able to bug him away from his house?"
Aubrey chuckles softly at Vance's question, reminiscing about the past. "Oh, that... Well, it was actually quite recent. I had this urge to reconnect with Sunny after all these years, and I thought, why not bug him a bit to get him out of his shell? I missed our old hangouts and just wanted things to be like they used to, you know?"
Mikhael raises an eyebrow, intrigued by Aubrey's explanation, while Kim nods in understanding. "Ah, so that's what prompted it," Vance muses, a thoughtful expression on his face.
Kim smiles and whispers to Aubrey "Besides that , you seem awfully close with that reunion these past 6-7 days huh Aubs? It's interesting how you need Kel to bug Sunny's place than you yourself with us…"
While Angel and Kel still compete after handstand some push-ups in the backround.
Aubrey blushes slightly at Kim's comment, nodding in agreement. "Yeah, it's been quite a whirlwind of a week. Kel has this way of persuading people that I don't quite have, especially when it comes to Sunny. But I'm glad we're all hanging out together now."
Meanwhile , Basil reorganized his recent photos he taken and his own photo album.
When Hero turn to Sunny watching in awe of the competition he whispers "You want to try exercising soon?"
As Sunny turn with a gasp while petting a sleeping Mewo "Ahh ye-yeah…I-I think so Uhh…Hero any idea?"
As Hero proudly headpat Sunny "Don't worry , trust me…me , Kel , Basil and even Aubrey actually talk about it when you return to your house hours ago so…Kel was the one that suggest you need physical work out while I had a proper health plan that could atleast make this routine suitable for your current body—" (since Sunny is a Hikkimori).
Sunny was surprise he turn to silently gaze at Basil doing a hand signs saying "It's true? You all really have already decided what sort of exercise routine I could do?"
Basil turns to Sunny with a soft smile, his gentle demeanor showing through as he replies softly, "Yeah, we did. We just want you to be healthy and happy, Sunny. Plus, it's always good to have a routine, right?" His words convey genuine care and consideration for Sunny's well-being, emphasizing the supportive nature of their friendship.
Then , he had a small smile. Appreciating the sentiment as he turn to Hero "So , Hero…what was the first few steps of my first exercise routine I could try for my body's current state? Since it is still trying to adapt to all sorts if activities outside the house…."
Hero nods, understanding Sunny's concerns. "Well, we thought starting with some light stretching and simple bodyweight exercises would be good. Nothing too intense to begin with, just enough to get your body moving comfortably. We can gradually increase the intensity as you feel more comfortable and confident." He offers a reassuring smile, indicating that they'll start slow and gradually build up the routine to suit Sunny's pace and abilities.
Then , as he nods they notice with Aubrey and other hooligans Angel pants with Kel lying down when Angel smiles "Ughh shucks!!!! No wonder you're one of the MVPs of your basketball team Kellsey Corazon!!!" (Kel's full name).
Kel beams proudly at the compliment. "Thanks, Angel! I do try my best," he responds, feeling a sense of accomplishment at being recognized for his skills. Aubrey chuckles beside them, enjoying the friendly banter and camaraderie among their group.
As Mikhael lend Angel some bottle of water then some orange Joe for Kel saying "Seriously….Angel should know better why he is able to beat us up with Sunny when we're shopping them away few days ago…"
Hero then high-fives his younger brother Kel as he sat besides him sipping his orange Joe , Basil adds "Still…it's nice seeing it in action…it actually inspire 'someone' here to try athletic stuff too.." glance at Sunny who hugs Mewo to hide his face blushing.
While , Aubrey stood up as its afternoon uttering holding Bun-Bun "Okay alright….So , , Shall we take our pets (Bun-bun - White bunny is Aubrey's , Mewo - black cat is Sunny's , Hector - Shiba Inu is Kel's and Hero's) back home first before we might eat out at Gino's Pizza?"
As Kel gasp "right , it would be cool to let Sunny with everyone here to check out Faraway plaza properly…"
Then , Aubrey was surprise when the hooligans grab their own scooters first as she ask "what's up?"
As they all excuse they have their own
Family and activities to return to.
While Kim and Vance just plan to visit Fix-it to let their scooters be on maintenance and will even cover for Aubrey's personal scooter since she seems not using it right now.
Kel nods appreciatively and thanks Kim and Vance for taking care of Aubrey's scooter. Hero and Basil also express their gratitude for the offer and mention that they look forward to the outing at Faraway plaza. Sunny, while a bit shy, also thanks them quietly for their kindness.
As they leave , Mikhael wears his blonde wig again and went back to his persona just less obnoxious as he spoke "FEEL free to also visit my family's as othermart!!! Especially for you Sunny and Kel!!! As I shall return to my place…bid you adieu…"
Mikhael's offer is met with polite nods and thanks from the group. Sunny expresses interest in visiting Mikhael's family's bakery at Othermart, while Kel agrees enthusiastically, mentioning his love for baked goods. The group then bids farewell to Mikhael as he heads back home.
Then , as they left.
Hero and Kel smiles seeing Sunny weakly lean over Aubrey's shoulder as they stand up and thrown away trash nearby.
Basil asking "So Sunny , you still have the energy this afternoon or tired?"
Basil's question prompts Sunny to straighten up a bit, looking at Basil with a small smile. "I'm okay, Basil. Just need a bit of rest and I'll be good to go," Sunny replies, trying to sound upbeat despite his slight fatigue.
Aubrey then chuckles "Hey remember , just don't overexert yourself okay? We recently just let you recover from having a fever that even made your parents come back for a moment to check in you fainting all of a sudden like that 2 days ago…"
Her reminder makes Sunny nod in agreement. "Yeah, I won't push myself too hard. Thanks for looking out for me, Aubrey," he says with gratitude, appreciating her concern for his well-being.
As Hero and Kel came back with a sigh , they already overheard it.
Hero spoke "speaking of which , should we just order a take-out from Gino's then we can accompany Sunny to rest?"
As Kel sighs "Does Sunny need rest again?"
Hero suggests, "Maybe we should. Sunny does seem a bit worn out. It might be good for him to rest and recover properly." He looks at Sunny, who nods in agreement, understanding the need to take it easy after recent events.
So , Aubrey smiles "Guess it's the same for our pets huh? We should get a take-out at Gino's then bring our pets at home…"
After that , Basil speaks up "Then , Sunny where would you like to rest?"
As Sunny quietly points at Kel and Hero. As Basil says "Ahh , so you wanted to sleepover at Kel's and Hero's place? It is just next door your house.." Sunny nods. As Hero happily speaks "Great!!! Then Sunny can join mi familia by dinner!!! Oh hold on…Kel…" lends few dollars for his brother as he whispers "You should pay for the take out order for the pizza we need , along with the unique 'Hero's Sandwich' they have on the menu while I buy some new flowers from 'Fix-it' for Mama okay?"
Kel nods in agreement and takes the money from Hero, understanding the plan. "Got it, I'll take care of the pizza and the special sandwich. You can get the flowers for Mama. We'll meet back at Kel and Hero's place after."
Aubrey smiles at the arrangement. "Sounds like a plan. Let's head to Gino's first and then meet up at Kel and Hero's for a relaxing evening." With that, they gather their things and pets before heading to Gino's for some delicious food to enjoy together.
As they did so , Sunny turns to Basil "Still , atleast as always our families trust the Corazon household before right? Do we still give permission?"
Sunny's concern about permission is valid, especially considering the recent events. Basil nods in understanding, showing his support. "Of course, Sunny. We'll make sure to inform your parents, and I'm sure they'll be fine with it. After all, they trust Kel and Hero, and we've done this before." With reassurance from Basil, Sunny feels more at ease about spending time at Kel and Hero's place.
Following in Stride, Kel jokes as they handle their pets, "Guess you don't need to ask your Mom Aubs!! ... after all…she will just bug you instead if she need anything.."
Aubrey's humor shines through as she quips about her mom's tendency to check in. "Yeah, moms have that radar, don't they? Always looking out for us, even when we think we're handling everything ourselves." Her comment lightens the mood, adding a touch of relatability to the conversation about parental oversight.
Onward , Kel leading the way as he handles Hector when they go with their pets to visit Gino's Pizza "Speaking of that Aubrey , I am sure Mama and Papa would appreciate seeing you guys (Basil , Sunny and Aubrey) again!!!! Might even join in for dinner…"
As Sunny nods while Basil walks handling Mewo on his side this time "So after we get the take out , Will Hero meet us up after or much later since he seems to part ways for some reason?"
Kel nods in agreement with Sunny, and Aubrey smiles warmly at the thought of reconnecting with their friends' families. "I'm sure they would love that. It's been a while since we all had a meal together." She then turns to Basil, nodding in confirmation. "Hero mentioned he wanted to pick up some things from Fix-it, so he might join us a bit later. We can start without him and save him a slice of pizza for when he arrives."
Kel winks with a smile as they enter Gino's "Yes yes as Aubs said so…after that we can let our pets be drag back home first…" glance at Aubrey holding her white rabbit Bun-Bun "So , we partially need to get back home just to check in our pets to properly rest in their homes…" As Sunny got quiet , as they turn to ask him if there's something else he is thinking about (which was how he can manage a new possible excercise routine that Hero recommends for his body that Kel and the rest talk about before he is hanging out with them again and manage Mari's health and his chores)
Sunny smiles softly, appreciating their concern. "Oh, it's just a few things on my mind, but nothing urgent. I'm looking forward to dinner and spending time together." He nods reassuringly, trying to push aside his thoughts about exercise routines and Mari's health for the moment.
Basil is the one that recognize his expression more naturally yet covers for Sunny to say happily "Plus , pretty sure Sunny will enjoy another sleepover later after such most active day we had today…especially when we met Aubrey's other group and understand how they met her….."
Basil's observation is perceptive. "Absolutely, Sunny always enjoys our gatherings. It's been quite an eventful day, meeting Aubrey's other friends and learning more about their dynamics." He smiles warmly at Sunny, trying to lighten the mood and redirect the conversation.
Then, Aubrey sighs as they enter Gino's with the smell of the pizza pastries and bustling other customers at their tables as they lean on the wall to wait, as she asks Kel is a practical ,one. "Kel, do you remember what Hero asked you to buy for take-out? We want to make sure we get everything right for dinner."
Kel chuckles saying "Of course , besides a family sized pizza , I also can buy that special menu order that Hero likes called 'Hero Sandwich' that coincidentally had the same name as nickname!!!!"
Basil chuckles as Sunny absentmindedly spoke "I almost forgot he likes ordering that even when we're kids…."
After a few minutes passed since Kel managed to order what he needs with the dollars Hero lend him.
They all walk together with their pets as Kel speaks up "So Sunny , any future plans starting tomorrow you would be up to besides intended to just add a rooftop sort of garden for Basil to help with for our treehouse—Which I mean still debating if you felt have time for other things you would like to try and all…."
Sunny softly fiddles his fingers while the black cat Mewo weakly walks to follow , besides the rest of the friends on their walk "Guess…Basil's role in making a rooftop garden in our latest treehouse project just done this week at my house' backyard erm…could be a side thing me and Basil can let you guys know…yet for now lately I wonder…does playing an instrument count as an exercise?"
Basil nods in agreement, adding, "Absolutely, Sunny. Playing an instrument like the violin not only exercises your fingers and arms but also engages your mind and emotions. It can be a wonderful way to express yourself and relieve stress, much like physical exercise does." Kel chimes in, "Plus, it's something enjoyable and creative, which is always a bonus for overall well-being." Aubrey smiles and nods, "And we're all here to support you in whatever you decide to pursue, whether it's music, exercise, or anything else that brings you joy."
Sunny blushed and cries again laughing "Sometimes it's bizzarre someone like me befriend all of you despite how much time passes…"
They chuckle as they walk more they heard someone behind them catch up it's Hero holding a bouquet of flowers (which he bought from Fix-it) and a new plastic cover for his old cookbook (that his cookbook is back at the treehouse of Sunny's house backyard). Saying "Hey guys!!! How you all doing in your end?"
Hero's arrival brings a cheerful atmosphere, and Kel grins, "We were just discussing Sunny's potential violin comeback and exercise plans." Basil nods enthusiastically, "Yes, and we think it's a fantastic idea!" Aubrey chimes in, "We were also about to grab some take-out from Gino's. Did you manage to get everything from Fix-it?" Sunny smiles at Hero, feeling a sense of warmth from their close-knit group.
He nods , gesturing the item he Carries he smiled at Kel already having the box of pizza and package of the 'Hero Sandwich' "Guess , Aubrey I think it's moreso finished grabbing a take out from Gino's….Eitherway guess you should go home first huh? Since your house is not as close to the Corazon (Kel and Hero's family) house nor Miyamoto (Sunny and Mari's family) house.."
As Kel turn a bit worried since he ponders if ever a trouble happens to her with her mom saying "Yeah…Basil has no pet to bring back home to so…It's up to you Aubrey if ya need to take Bun-bun back to your home okay?"
Aubrey nods, giving a reassuring smile. "I'll take Bun-Bun back home. Don't worry about me, I'll be fine. Besides, I don't want Bun-Bun to miss out on his usual cozy spot." She pats the white bunny affectionately. Sunny adds, "And I can handle myself, too. I'll be sure to try out that violin exercise plan tomorrow." Hero beams at their camaraderie, feeling grateful for such supportive friends.
Basil speaks up "Besides.." gestures his cellphone "were all contact via dial too right? So if we're far we can still converse…"
Basil's suggestion brings nods of agreement from everyone. Kel chimes in, "Yeah, that's true. We're just a call or text away if anything comes up. Plus, with Sunny trying out the violin again, we can share our progress and cheer each other on even if we're not physically together." Sunny smiles at the thought, feeling encouraged by their ongoing support.