Typical // Z.H.

Five

"Hello?"

"Hey, Valorie. It's Zach. I have a question..." Zach started over the phone.

Today was the day that they're supposed to go back to LA. I'd be lying if I said I wouldn't miss them.

"Speak." I paused Netflix.

Taking a deep breath, he spoke quickly. "Will you come back to LA with us?"

I froze and stared at myself through the vanity mirror. My shocked expression didn't waver for the next ten seconds.

"Val? You there?"

"Yeah, yeah." I paused. "What'd the boys think of that?"

Zach was silent before speaking slowly. "They said it's okay."

I sighed, "Don't lie to me, Zach."

"Fine." He groaned. "They were hesitant at first, but I convinced them and we want you to stay with us. I think it'd be fun since you haven't really been busy... I know you lied to your aunt."

Maybe it would be okay. I could get away from everyone for awhile. I could miss the opening for Valoria and not be the center of attention. Also since the boys missed my Mom's speech. I could escape Vivian for awhile.

"I can ask my parents." I shrugged, though he couldn't see me.

"Okay, call me back."

I walked downstairs and into the family room that occupied my parents. As always, they were watching the news.

I stepped in front of them and blocked their view of the TV.

"Valorie, move out of the way, please!" My mother gave me her signature scolding look.

My father nodded, "They were about to announce what the forecast would be!"

Wow.

I paused the TV and turned back to my proper parents. "I have a very important question and I need you to consider it thoroughly."

"We'll consider it, but it depends on what it is." My father folded his arms.

I crossed my fingers behind my back, "May I please go to LA with the boys f-"

"No." My mother cut me off.

I opened my mouth to protest, but apparently she wasn't done.

"I want you here to see the opening line for Valoria." She informed me.

I shook my head, "I can watch it on the news, Mom. Please! I don't have to be there-"

"The line is named after you, of course you must attend." My father scowled.

I groaned, "Mom, Dad! Please don't make me stay! It's a once in a lifetime offer!"

My parents exchanged a look. Then, my father spoke.

"How long will you be gone?"

I shrugged, "Not sure. But I will come back at some point."

"Hmm." My mother tapped her chin. "Fine, you may go. But when I tell you to come back, you will come back. Understood?"

I nodded eagerly, "Of course, Mom. Thanks, you two!"

I jogged off to my room and shut the door behind me. I called Zach and on the second ring, he picked up.

"Hello?"

"Zach, they said yes!" I said excitedly.

I heard him gasp, "Seriously?!"

"Seriously!" I confirmed.

"This is awesome!" Zach laughed. "I actually already bought a plane ticket for you after dinner last week. So, can you meet us at the airport at 3:30? Our flight leaves at 4:30."

I smiled, "Of course. You really thought this all through, huh?"

"Yeah." He laughed again. "You say 'of course' a lot, don't you?"

"Yeah." I snorted. "It's a habit."

-~-~-

After boarding the plane, I slipped my headphones on and turned on Stay With Me by Jack & Jack. I stared out with window beside Zach as our flight took off.

The soft sound of the song played in the background, making me feel sleepy. It was straight flight, so no delays. My head fell on Zach's shoulder, and he didn't budge.

I smiled, "You're comfy."

I faintly heard him laugh, "I hope so."

-~-~-

We got into the Why Don't We house and I observed the place around me. This is where I'll be staying.

"Wanna see your room? We've only got one extra and it's all yours." Zach chuckled.

I nodded and followed him up the stairs, stealing one last glance at the scowling four below us.

He led me into a room that already held a bed, vanity, closet, and personal connected bathroom.

I turned to him, "You've definitely thought this through, haven't you?"

His face dropped for a split second before returning to his smiley self. "Duh. Make yourself at home, Valorie. Stay as long as you want."

Zach walked out of the room, leaving me alone with my thoughts. I unpacked all my stuff into my closet, makeup on the vanity, and essentials in my bathroom.

When I was done, I headed downstairs. The flight ruined my sleep schedule, so I don't really care anymore. The boys were in the living room on their phones.

I cleared my throat to gain their attention, "Do you guys wanna do something?"

"Like?" Corbyn asked, uninterested.

"I don't know." I paused. "Movie?"

"Not-" Jonah started.

"Yeah, what do you all wanna watch?" Zach cut him off.

I shrugged, "Doesn't matter to me."

Jack raised his hand, "How about we watch Brave? It's about a person who makes a poor choi-"

"Let's watch Beauty and The Beast instead. It's about a person who gives someone else a chance. Sounds good? Great." Zach said quickly.

We got settled with blankets, snacks, and drinks. I was sharing a blanket with Zach on one end of the couch.

And I guess sometime in the movie, I fell into a dreamless sleep.