You discuss what to do next, and agree to go there after lunch. There’s still one more call to make before even getting into the kitchen. Jesse is next.

“How is it going, bud?” You try to sound casual.

“You know I’m doing renovations to your place. How do you think I’m doing?” Jesse is still mad that he was the biggest loser in the race.

“Great, because you love handiwork?” You joke.

“I-I do like it, but it was a hypothetical question. I was expecting you to call, but before we get serious.” Jesse coughs. “Your upstairs neighbors are helping me out, but I have to ask...”

“They are? Who?” You don’t think Nariko should do that!

“Xavi? Rooke? They heard me working and came over. Suan De approved it, whatever. But I gotta ask…” Jesse lowers his voice. “What’s up with the tied-up guy? Suan De doesn’t know, but like, she doesn’t care either? Why does nobody care?”

“Huh, I don’t think I can explain it.” You can’t give a satisfactory answer. “Honestly, I’m calling because someone I know wants to talk to you.” You pass it over to the Clumsy Idol…

“Who?” Jesse sounds perplexed.

“Me, Jesse…” Vortexia sounds emotionless… and familiar.

“...I-Is it really you? It’s been years.” Jesse’s mind is blown. “I… can’t believe this. A-Are you doing better?”

“Yes. Tell my brother that I miss him.” Vortexia’s eyes look lifeless.

“Y-Yes, ma’am.” Jesse sounds uncharacteristically nervous.

“Don’t call me ma’am.” Vortexia dryly retorts.

“I-It won’t happen again.” Jesse gulps.

“Thank you for everything.” Vortexia says. “How is your health?”

“G-Great. Nothing else to report.” Jesse is uneasy.

“Are you happy?” Vortexia threatens (?).

“L-Like Sunday Morning! Gotta go!” Jesse hangs up. You have no idea what that’s supposed to mean.

“…” Vortexia hands over your phone. “Give me his number later, please.”

“What was that…?” You’ve never seen this side of her. Kinda. She’s focused in bed...

“I’m keeping up appearances... It’s a long story.” Clutz sighs.

“Ah, you used to bully your little brother’s buddies?” Beth assumes from the interaction.

“S-Something like that…” Clutz feels seen. You’d never bully Amelia, you just put her in her place.

“I’m not the one to judge. I love terrorizing my niblings to this day.” Beth giggles maliciously…

“But it went well, right?” You’re not sure if Vortexia got what she wanted.

“Yes. It went perfectly.” Vortexia says without hesitation. This is a new side to her…

Calls are done, next is lunch! The moment Kushi has been waiting for! Well, kinda, she’s out of her chef attire into something more comfortable. She looks cute regardless! Together, you decided on a meal that you’re sure everyone is going to love.