If The Octonauts were Mean Girls (COMPLETED)

School Dance...

As the rumors of Peso pushing Dashi in front of a bus swelled with each passing day, his arrival at the cafeteria was met with universal rejection, reminiscent of his first day. None would engage with him, not Selva, Shellington, nor anyone else, save for Barnacles. Relegated once again to solitary lunchtimes in a bathroom stall, Peso recognized the urgent need for action; his friendships had dissolved, and he was now the subject of widespread animosity and fear.

In a bid to address the situation, Peso approached Principal Inkling's office to report a serious matter involving one of his teachers. Upon knocking, he was greeted by Inkling's inquiring gaze.

"What is it, Peso?" Inkling prompted.

"There's something important I have to confess," Peso began, "regarding the Burn Book."

For an hour, Peso poured out the truth about the Burn Book to Principal Inkling. Despite not contributing to its contents, Peso was ready to assume responsibility for it, eager to prevent further harm.

Following their discussion, Principal Inkling, visibly disheartened yet resolute, escorted Peso to the office exit.

"A one-week suspension seems appropriate," Inkling decreed, with a slight concession, "but you may attend the Spring Fling Dance."

Peso nodded, his voice tinged with regret, "Yes, and I'm truly sorry... for everything."

...

Peso, in a strategic move, joined the Mathletes for some extra credit to boost his math grades and avoid a repeat of his junior year. With his hypothesis proven, he reclaimed his old charm and donned the cherished necklace from his Abuela. Post their triumphant Mathlete Championship, Peso and his brainy crew strutted into the gym where the Spring Fling Dance was in full swing. The air was electric with dance moves, DJ beats, and the suspense of the Spring Fling royalty vote.

Amidst the festivities, Peso was a bundle of nerves. Despite his newfound glory, whispers and rumors swirled like a persistent fog. His gaze landed on Selva, radiant as always, yet her eyes held a storm meant just for him. Not wishing to stir the pot, Peso ducked out to the hallway for a breather. It had been ages since the incident that made him school-hallway folklore. As he inhaled solace, Dashi made her grand entrance, channeling the Bride of Frankenstein's elegance, her headgear a crown, her sparkly pink mermaid dress a beacon, and her hair a glorious cascade.

"Dashi..." Peso exclaimed, his eyes widening as he took in her transformation post-accident, "You're looking good."

Sporting a Spinal Halo, Dashi offered a wry grin, "Fashionable, isn't it?"

Peso fumbled, "Listen, about the bus... I'm really sorry, it's all on me."

"Let's not make this a 'you' saga. I'm the star who got kissed by a bus," she quipped, still smiling.

"And for everything else, I'm sorry too," Peso added.

"Alright," Dashi said, her words slightly slurred from the medication, "I'll forgive you. Mainly because I'm swimming in painkillers right now. Did you know I played dead for fifteen seconds?"

"That's... terrifying," Peso managed to say.

Dashi nodded, her mind wandering back to her school days and her interactions with friends,

"You see," Dashi mused, "Waking up on that street, all I saw were my Dad's and Shellington's shocked faces peering down at me. They weren't just sad, they were shocked to see me bleed. As if they needed a reminder that I've been human all along."

"It's strange, being treated like you're a celebrity," Peso remarked.

"It's a thrill until it isn't," Dashi reflected, "Then you realize it's time for a change. I was tough, sure. But if I were a boy, do you know what they'd call me?"

"What?" Peso inquired.

"Dylan," she revealed, "That was my dad's pick for a son."

Peso began, "I'm sorry for—"

"Stop right there," Dashi interrupted, "No apologies for things out of your control. And never say sorry for owning it."

With a flourish, Dashi applied lip gloss despite the headgear,

"To find happiness in life, Peso, you've got to tune out the noise. Really, just don't care. Time's up. Love ya!" Dashi breezed out.

Dashi returned to the gym, and Peso, taking a deep breath, followed. As the final votes were being cast, he noticed Kwazii and Tweak in their prom attire. Approaching their conversation, he was met with Kwazii's glare and Tweak's eye roll.

"So..." Kwazii sneered, "What do you want?"

"I just wanted to talk to you guys," Peso replied, attempting to start a conversation.

While Peso made his attempt, Principal Inkling ascended the stage with the ballots in hand.

"Okay, it's time to announce the Spring Fling King and Queen. I just want to say that you're all winners, and I couldn't be happier that this school year is coming to a close," Inkling announced with a smile, revealing the Spring Fling Queen card, "And the winner is... Ryla!"

Applause filled the room as Ryla ascended the stage to accept her tiara, while Peso continued his efforts to reconnect with his former friends.

"Tweak, please..." Peso implored.

"No," Tweak retorted sharply.

"Tweak, come on," Peso persisted.

At that moment, Principal Inkling revealed the next card.

"And the Spring Fling King is... Peso Penguin!" Inkling declared.

All eyes turned to Peso, the spotlight casting him in a dramatic glow.

"What?" Peso gasped in disbelief.