Chapter 8: Reunion

The Crew building buzzes with its usual energy as dancers bustle about, practicing routines and discussing upcoming performances. Magali and Conrad sit at a table, enjoying a hearty lunch after a productive morning of dance practice. Unbeknownst to them, an unexpected and special guest is about to make her presence known.

A knock on the door interrupts their conversation. They exchange curious glances, wondering who could be visiting them. Unexpected guests are a rarity, and this interruption is certainly out of the ordinary. As the leader of the Crew, Conrad rises from his seat and approaches the door. Opening it, he is met with the sight of a tall and unfamiliar young woman.

The newcomer has light brunette hair meticulously tied into two thick pigtails that cascade over her shoulders. Her brown eyes hold an intimate gaze, offering a sense of curiosity. Dressed in an ensemble radiating elegance, she wears a sleeveless white mini-shirt paired with form-fitting jeans that accentuate her slender curves. White high heels add to her poise, giving her a confident lift. In contrast to the vibrant spirit of the Crew, her demeanor exudes an air of sophistication.

Momentarily taken aback by her striking appearance, Conrad clears his throat before addressing her. "Hello, can I help you?"

The stranger greets him with a polite smile, her composed tone matching her refined demeanor. "Yes, I'm looking for Magali Artisan. Is she here?"

Conrad's curiosity is piqued by her request. "Magali? Yeah, she's a member of my crew. Wait here, let me call her."

Stepping inside to make the call, Conrad leaves the door open. Magali, intrigued by the unusual visitor, soon receives the message and approaches the doorway. Conrad steps aside to allow her through, and as she catches sight of the guest's face, her eyes widen in shock. "Zee-chan!" she exclaims, her voice carrying surprise and delight.

"Hello, Lili. It's been a long time, hasn't it?" responds the guest.

"I guess you two know each other. Are you like best friends or something?" Conrad asks, his curiosity evident.

The guest steps closer, her presence commanding attention. "Actually no. Please allow me to introduce myself. My name is Zoila Maria Artisan, and I am Magali's older sister."

Conrad's eyes widen further, realizing that he is in the presence of another member of the Artisan family. Hastily inviting her in, he makes space for the sisters to sit together and engage in conversation. Snacks are offered to entertain their guest, and Conrad can't help but express his excitement. "I can't believe it. Meeting another member of the Artisan family! Just need to meet Julian himself, then I'll be happy!"

Magali turns her attention to her sister, curiosity shining in her eyes. "Zee-Chan, I'm glad you came, but why didn't you call to let me know you were coming?"

Zoila's response holds a touch of surprise. "That's unusual. Father was supposed to inform you about my arrival today. Didn't he call you?"

"He actually didn't," Magali replies. In that moment, her phone rings, displaying her father's name on the screen. Answering, she greets him, "Hi, Dad, what's up?"

"Hey Magali! Just calling to let you know that your sister is on her way to Sweet Dance City. She should be arriving in a few hours. Would you be able to greet her?"

"It's a bit late for that, Dad. She's already here."

"Really?" After a brief pause, Julian continues, "Ah, I see. I might have overlooked the time zone difference between California and Florida."

“You sure did,” said Magali in a playful tone.

“Well, I’m glad she made it there safe and sound. I’m sorry, but I have to return to my work. Please take care of her for me, will you?”

After Magali hangs up the phone, they continue to chat for a while. Magali and Zoila try to catch up from the many months that they haven’t seen each other. Conrad smiles, observing the sisters as they engage in their conversation, their bond evident in the easy way they communicate. However, he can't help but notice the nicknames they use between each other. While "Lili" seems like a straightforward abbreviation of Magali's name repeated twice, he finds it filled with childish charm from the years they grew up together. He thinks to himself that it's a cute nickname, one he wishes he could have come up with.

On the other hand, the name "Zee-Chan" strikes Conrad as rather unusual. He furrows his brow slightly, his curiosity piqued. It's clear that the nickname holds significance for them, yet it's something he hasn't encountered before. He wonders about its origin, as it doesn't seem to align with the more typical abbreviations he's encountered. Conrad's curiosity is piqued by the affectionate nickname Magali has used. "Zee-Chan? That's an interesting nickname. Does it have a special meaning?"

Magali glances at Zoila, then back at Conrad with a puzzled expression. "You know, I've been calling her that for so long, I don't even remember when it started. But yeah, it's like a nickname I gave her."

Zoila chuckles softly, her eyes reflecting fond memories. "Actually, there's a story behind it. When we were much younger, our father took us on a business trip to Japan. We spent some time there, and Lili must have been around five years old at the time. She picked up on the local dialect, and 'Chan' is a common honorific used between siblings there. Magali must have found it quite charming, so she started calling me Zee-Chan instead of her original nickname for me; Zeezee.”

Magali's eyes widen as the memory resurfaces. "Oh yeah! I completely forgot about that. I guess I've been doing it for so long, it just became second nature."

Conrad grins, finding the anecdote endearing. "Well, it's a cute nickname. And it's always nice to have a unique bond between siblings."

Zoila nods in agreement. "Indeed, it's one of those little things that become a part of our sister relationship. By the way, you must be Conrad. Father spoke highly of you. Thank you for taking care of my sister.”

“It’s my pleasure. Always glad to help an Artisan!”

They share a brief moment of camaraderie, chuckling at the exchange. Magali then turns the conversation back to her sister. “So, why are you here? Taking a vacation? Came to see me perform? I have a performance in a few days from now, I hope you can stick around until then.”

“Actually, I’m going to be taking an entrance exam later today! I’m going to be an idol too!” Zoila announces, her excitement palpable as she finally reveals her purpose for being in Sweet Dance City.

Magali's eyes widen in surprise. "Wait, are you serious? How can you be taking an entrance exam today? Aren’t the entrance exams done in May? It’s August right now!”

Conrad interjects, offering some clarification. “Actually, the normal entrance exams are done in May. The council does conduct entrance exams at other times for special occasions, such as re-certifying retired idols or other special conditions.”

A tinge of frustration edges into Magali’s voice as she probes further. “Let me guess, dad helped you secure an exam today.”

Zoila giggles softly as she responds, “You know how useless he is as a father, but his influence is quite strong. He might have placed a call to the council to let me take an exam.”

Magali lets out a resigned sigh, her eyebrows furrowing. “Why would you want to become an idol anyway? Unless you forgot, you can’t dance.”

Zoila's smile remains unyielding. “Yes, I did inherit mother’s two left feet. But you can’t deny that I am one of the best singers in California. It helped mother become an idol; I’m sure it would help me too.”

Curiosity getting the better of him, Conrad inquires, “So when is your exam?”

“In a couple of hours. I came by to invite you two to watch my performance,” Zoila replies, her enthusiasm shining through.

With time ticking away, Magali and Conrad swiftly prepare to accompany Zoila to the Dance Square for her entrance exam. Hailing a taxi, they rush back to the hotel where Zoila's chosen exam dress is carefully laid out. With minutes to spare, they reach the Dance Square, providing Zoila enough time to change. Magali takes on the role of makeup artist, ensuring that her sister looks her absolute best for the stage.

As the garment bag is unzipped, a breathtaking dress emerges – the CEO’s Invitation. Magali recognizes it from the city's shops; an expensive piece that's left an impression on her. A black dress adorned with sparkling blue frills along the hemline, shoulders, and décolletage. The hemline flows at an angle, starting just above the knee and sweeping up, daring yet perfectly aligned with Zoila's style. Sparkling blue high heels and a single glove for the right hand complete the ensemble. Silver-glittered nails add the final touch.

In the auditorium, Magali and Conrad wait expectantly as the anticipation builds. Among the judges, she spots Gemini, Pisces, Leo, and even Scorpio himself, all ready to determine Zoila's potential as an idol.

With the music's cue, four spotlights converge on Zoila. The dress shimmers spectacularly under the intense beams, framing Zoila's figure in a captivating dance of light. A shy and bashful look, perhaps rehearsed over her singing career, as she begins her performance. Slowly, she approaches the microphone and starts to sing.

Zoila's voice intertwines gracefully with the soft musical accompaniment. Her lyrics unfold beautifully, seemingly composed on the spot. An angelic voice reminiscent of her mother's resonates through the air, captivating everyone present. Entranced, the audience can't help but be swept away by her skillful performance. Magali, though not surprised, still finds herself deeply moved – her sister's talent undeniable, a voice that has triumphed in numerous competitions.

As the exam progresses, Magali confirms what she expected. Zoila remains stationary at the microphone, her performance devoid of any dance or movement. A melancholic sigh escapes Magali, knowing that even with Zoila's remarkable singing ability, the city, Sweet Dance, places dancing at the core of being an idol.

As the song reaches its final notes, Conrad whispers, his admiration evident, “incredible, your sister has true talent.”

Magali nods, her heart conflicted. “She truly is, Conrad. But in this city, it's not just about the singing. I hope she can handle whatever the results may be. Dancing is the heart of being an idol in Sweet Dance, after all.”

After a brief deliberation among the judges, Scorpio rises to his feet, his voice commanding the room's attention, “Congratulations, Zoila. It's with great pleasure that I announce you as Sweet Dance's newest idol!”

The announcement resonates like a shockwave. Magali's disbelief is palpable, her voice catching as she blurts out, “What the!”

Zoila approaches the council, a mix of exhilaration and amazement dancing in her eyes as she collects her new ID, officially an idol now. Magali's jaw remains unhinged, struggling to process that Zoila managed to pass her entrance exam without showcasing any dancing skills. Conrad observes Magali's stunned reaction, concern in his eyes. “What's wrong, Mags? I mean, this is good news, right? Your sister passed her exam!”

Magali blinks, her expression a blend of happiness and bewilderment. “Of course, I'm happy for her. It's just…” A pause, a reflection, as her thoughts drift back to what Tellu had shared. The notion takes shape in her mind, a contemplation she can't shake off. Maybe, just maybe, she's granted entry due to her lineage, an echo of her mother's path. Her mother's journey, devoid of dance yet still resulting in monumental success as one of the greatest idols in history, begins to parallel Zoila's situation. Could it be that the council envisions the same trajectory for her sister?

Returning to the Crew Hall, another surprising twist awaits. Zoila's next move leaves Magali slack-jawed once more, as she presents Conrad with a filled-out application to join his crew. Magali gazes at her sister, a quizzical expression on her face as she questions, “Why do you want to join this crew?”

Zoila smiles, an air of determination in her eyes, “To be close to my sister. Why else?”

Magali lets out a resigned sigh, preparing herself for the disappointment she's about to relay. “I’m sorry to tell you, but Conrad doesn’t have enough space to accept you. If you want, I can help you find a crew nearby and-”

Before Magali can finish her sentence, Conrad's signature graces the application. He looks up at Zoila and announces with a warm smile, “You've officially been accepted into the crew. Congratulations.”

Magali's eyebrows nearly touch her hairline, her incredulity evident as she exclaims, “Wait a second! You’re just going to let her in that easily?”

Conrad seems genuinely surprised by Magali's reaction. “What do you mean? Is there a reason why I shouldn't allow her in?”

Magali stammers, her mind working to catch up with the whirlwind of events. “Well, no. But what about your other crewmates? I thought you were waiting for them to come back?”

A nonchalant shrug accompanies Conrad's response. “They can share a room when they come back.”

“Is that even allowed?” Magali probes, curiosity in her voice.

A mischievous grin tugs at Conrad's lips as he admits, “No, not really. But idols do it all the time anyway. As long as nobody reports it, the council won’t care too much.”

Another sigh escapes Magali, a mixture of amazement and exasperation. She turns to her sister, a triumphant grin on her face. “Well, looks like we’re going to be living together again. Welcome, Zee-Chan!”

Conrad's smile widens, his friendly demeanor shining through as he suggests, “You can have the room across from Mags. We'll help you get your stuff from the hotel later.”

With a sense of urgency, Zoila and Magali make their way to the room that Conrad has designated for her. Zoila takes a moment to survey her new surroundings, her tone reflecting a blend of practicality and acceptance, “it’s a bit smaller than I’m used to, but it will have to do.” She inhales the air, her nose twitching slightly as she comments, “I can tell that a girl used to live here.”

Curiosity piqued, Conrad questions, “how can you tell that?”

A playful smile graces Zoila's lips as she elaborates, “there’s a faint smell of perfume lingering in the air.” She takes a few more subtle sniffs, her focus keen, “Let's see, I smell a hint of lotus flowers, vanilla, cinnamon, orchids, and orange blossoms. She must be Chinese... No wait, a second-generation Chinese immigrant! The perfume she uses is handmade.”

Conrad's reaction is a mix of astonishment and admiration, his hands coming together in a light applause. “That’s amazing! You can tell all that from just smelling perfume?”

Magali joins in the conversation, a proud smile on her face as she explains, “Zee-Chan has a strong love for perfume. She can read a person's personality just by detecting the faintest traces of different fragrances anyone uses. It’s kinda like her super power!”

Zoila's cheeks gain a faint rosy hue as she divulges another revelation, her voice tinged with intrigue, “wow, I can tell that this girl was deeply in love. I would love to hang out with her someday; she seems quite interesting!”

Conrad reassures her with a chuckle, “I'm sure you will when she comes back.”

With a spirit of camaraderie, Magali and Conrad help Zoila settle into her new room. They bring in suitcases and bags filled with Zoila's belongings from the hotel. As they unpack, the room starts to take on a more familiar aura, blending Zoila's essence with the existing ambiance. Magali arranges a few decorative items on the shelves, while Conrad ensures that Zoila's electronic devices are set up and functioning.

Amid the laughter and shared stories, the day gradually turns to evening. A sense of satisfaction lingers in the air as the last item finds its place. They stand together, surveying the room that has transformed from a mere space into a reflection of Zoila's presence. The bond between the trio deepens with each shared moment.

As the first stars twinkle outside the window, Magali lets out a contented sigh, stretching her arms upward. "Well, I think it's safe to say that your room is officially 'Zee-fied'."

Zoila chuckles, casting an affectionate gaze at her sister, "Thank you, Lili. And thank you, Conrad, for letting me crash in your crew and sharing your space."

Conrad smiles warmly, his gaze meeting both sisters. "You're always welcome here, Zoila. We're all a family now."

With the prospect of an eventful day ahead, they bid each other goodnight and retreat to their respective rooms. The building's gentle hum of activity slowly quiets down as the city outside also prepares to rest. As the Crew building settles into its nocturnal rhythm, Magali, Zoila, and Conrad find comfort in the bonds they've forged and the promise of new adventures yet to come.

The next morning, Conrad wakes up and exits his room with a big yawn. He takes a look around and finds Zoila standing by the window. His heart races as he finds Zoila in a less than favorable position. She is staring out the window with nothing but her pink underwear covering her body. Her smooth creamy skin exposed for the world to see.

As Zoila turns to Conrad, he sweats nervously, wondering what is going on. Zoila smiles as she walks towards him seductively. Conrad walks back, pinning himself against a nearby wall as Zoila gets closer, unfazed by her outfit. With a hand on her hip, she says, “Good morning Conrad, did you sleep well?”

“Um, Zoila? I think you forgot something back in your room,” answered Conrad nervously.

“Oh, you noticed! How cute! I was starting to think you were rooting for the other team. I can clearly tell, that we’re going to have a lot of fun in this crew together.”

Conrad's body tenses as he feels the sudden shift in the atmosphere. He knows that Zoila is no ordinary girl; she is Magali’s sister and the daughter of one of the most important people in Sweet Dance City. He can practically sense the weight of responsibility on his shoulders, knowing that his actions could have far-reaching consequences. He gulps nervously, his mind racing to carefully navigate this unexpected interaction.

Just as his anxiety threatens to consume him, Magali emerges from her room, her yawn transforming into a gasp of disbelief. Her sleepy demeanor is replaced by shock as she witnesses the scene before her. Her mind struggles to process the sight—Conrad pressed against the wall with her sister, Zoila. As realization dawns upon her, her eyes widen and her brows furrow in a mix of anger and disbelief.

In an instant, her shock gives way to a resounding scream that pierces the air. The sheer intensity of her reaction sends shivers down the spine of everyone present. Magali's outrage is palpable as she steps forward, her accusation thrusting out like a weapon. The once-comfortable atmosphere now bristles with tension.

Zoila, now pinned against the wall by her own sister's accusatory finger, is momentarily taken aback. She raises her hands in a placating gesture, a mix of guilt and surprise written across her features. "Zee-Chan, what do you think you’re doing?!"

“I’m just teasing poor Conrad, is that such a crime?” says Zoila with a cute smile despite her sister’s anger.

Conrad, who has been moved to the side away from the sisters, struggles to find his voice. "M-Mags, please calm down. It's not like that, I can explain."

“Don’t worry Conrad, I know you had nothing to do with this!” said Magali, commanding the energy in the room.

A wave of shock and confusion rushes through Conrad as she says, “wait, this is . . . Normal?”

Magali spends the rest of the morning chastising her sister about her behavior and warns to leave Conrad alone. She starts to make up rules for her sister and warns her that she will be dealt with accordingly if she continues this behavior. Zoila keeps a happy smile on her face the whole time, reassuring her sister that she will leave Conrad alone. After telling her to put some clothes on, everyone gets ready to leave the crew and move on to carry their duties around the city.

Under the warm afternoon sun, Magali enjoys a break with her friends, Dessie and Lanna. With an air of exasperation, she recounts the events of the morning, detailing her sister's unexpected behavior and the frustration it has caused her.

Dessie raises an eyebrow, processing the information, before she asks, "So, if I'm getting this right, your sister now lives in the crew with you and Conrad. And she’s already making moves on Conrad?"

Magali's response is tinged with a mix of vexation and concern, "It's not as straightforward as that. Zee-Chan has a knack for toying with guys, using their emotions to her advantage. It's honestly infuriating, especially considering the trouble she's stirred back home. She has a tendency to lead boys on and then turn the tables on them using violence when things get too ‘grabby’ if you know what I mean. She doesn’t even like the guys she flirts with! Dad's had to bail her out of tricky situations more times than I can count."

With a heavy sigh, she adds, "My fear is that she might pull the same stunts here in Sweet Dance City. And if that happens, I'd be too embarrassed."

After Magali speaks, she notices that Dessie and Lanna’s expressions shifted. “What’s wrong?” she asked them.

The voice of Zoila speaks from behind Magali, "is that really how you view your sister?"

Magali pivots, her gaze falling upon Zoila who stands there holding a basket. A sense of unease lingers on Magali's features as she questions her sister, "how long have you been listening?"

Zoila's response carries a nonchalant reassurance, "long enough to catch the gist. But don't fret, I'm not upset. Everything you said is true after all." She then turns her attention towards Dessie and Lanna with a friendly smile, "You must be the friends Magali mentioned. I'm Zoila, her older sister. Mind if I join you?"

Dessie and Lanna nod, their curiosity piqued. After introducing themselves, Zoila takes a seat between Magali and Dessie, placing the basket within their reach. "I brought some food for everyone. Help yourselves!"

Opening the basket reveals a delightful array of homemade dishes, causing the two girls to gasp in surprise. They eagerly dig into the sandwiches and are met with an explosion of flavors. "These are incredible! Where did you get all this?" Lanna inquires.

Zoila's response is accompanied by a proud grin, "I cooked it myself."

"Absolutely," Magali chimes in, a grin tugging at her lips. "Aside from singing, Zoila's culinary skills are on point. Her home-cooked meals are simply out of this world."

Dessie's curiosity remains unabated as she poses another question, "but how did you manage to cook all of this? You're living in the crew with Magali, and crews don't have kitchens."

Zoila's answer holds a touch of mischief, "I used the cafeteria's kitchen. You never know what you can get away with after flirting with the cooks who work there. Some tight jeans also help out a bit. They really love a girl with an apron."

Magali's startled gasp sends a mouthful of food spraying, and she coughs and splutters for a moment before blurting out, "Zee-Chan! What' the hell is wrong with you? You can't just go around doing that!"

Zoila's response carries a nonchalant air, "relax, no harm done."

Magali shoots her sister an irritated glare but resumes her meal. Amidst the gentle ambiance, Lanna musters her courage, her face turning a shade pinker as she speaks up, "by the way, Zoila, I hope you don't mind me saying this, but I think you're really beautiful."

Zoila's smile is genuine as she responds, "thank you, Lanna. You're quite lovely as well."

Lanna's blush deepens. Magali playfully interjects, "Hey, what about me? You never told me I'm pretty!"

Dessie, ever the blunt one, chimes in, "you're cute, Magali, no doubt about it. But your sister's on a different level. Speaking of which, how come you two look so different? I mean, Zoila's got lighter hair and skin than you. Plus, she has brown eyes while yours are blue."

Zoila's explanation is calm and matter-of-fact, "that's because Lili takes after our father, and I've inherited more of our mother's features. Then again, mother's eyes went to Lili, and I ended up with father's."

Magali shifts the conversation, her curiosity piqued. "So, what trainee class are you in?"

Zoila's response carries a hint of nonchalance, "who knows? I'm not planning on attending it."

"Considering your lack of dancing skills, you really should," Magali retorts with an undertone of irritation.

Laughter fills the air as they continue to enjoy the delectable offerings from the basket. The lunch break eventually comes to an end, and Magali heads back to her trainee class. As the class wraps up, she steps outside the building and finds her sister patiently waiting so they can travel back to their crew together.

After stepping off the bus, Zoila maintains her pace, seemingly unperturbed by the earlier events. Magali approaches her sister, her voice tinged with concern and determination, "Zee-Chan, we really need to talk."

Zoila glances at her with a playful grin, "I know, I know. You want me to start attending my classes. I'll give it some thought, I promise."

Magali's patience wears a bit thin as she retorts, "no, that's not what I’m talking about! We need to discuss your behavior with the guys today. You might have gotten away with that back home, but things are different here. I don't want you to embarrass us, especially Dad and me. Just try to act normal and respectful, okay?"

In a swift transition, Zoila's focus seems to shift as she muses, "hmm, I'm thinking of making a seafood paella tomorrow. I saw a lot of seafood in the cafeteria fridge. It could be quite a treat."

Exasperation fills Magali's voice as she lets out a sigh, her earlier concern seemingly going unnoticed, "never mind, it's like you're not even hearing me anyway."

They remain quiet until they step back into the crew hall. Suddenly, the door swings open, and a burst of confetti showers them as Conrad's enthusiastic voice fills the air, "Welcome, girls! I'm throwing a party in honor of my new crewmates!" Stepping aside, he reveals the festive decorations he had secretly set up while they were out, complete with a beautifully adorned cake as the centerpiece.

Zoila's face lights up with delight, exclaiming, "Oh, wow! A party? Conrad, you shouldn't have!"

Magali, though trying to maintain composure, can't hide her surprise. "Hey, no fair. You didn't throw a party for me when I joined."

Conrad chuckles, then nods towards the cake. Magali approaches it and finds both her and Zoila's names beautifully scripted on its surface. Conrad grins, "See, Magali, your name is there too. When you joined, it was just us two and not enough to throw a party. But now with Zoila here, it's the perfect time to celebrate."

A blush of embarrassment spreads across Magali's cheeks as she murmurs, "That's really thoughtful, Conrad. Thank you." The room is filled with a warm atmosphere as the three friends prepare to celebrate this new chapter of their journey together.

Conrad, Magali, and Zoila dive into the festive spirit. They mingle with each other, sharing laughs and stories, while savoring the array of delicious treats. The music playing in the background sets the tone for a joyful atmosphere, and the crew members take turns showing off their talents in the makeshift dance floor. Zoila's infectious energy and charisma adds a new type of energy to the crew, as she effortlessly engages in conversations and shows off her singing. Magali dances to her sister’s singing, finding herself swept up in the excitement of the celebration. As they dance, laugh, and enjoy each other's company, it becomes clear that the party isn't just about welcoming Zoila and Magali to the crew, but also about strengthening the bond between them as family.

Later that evening, the party's exhilaration gives way to weariness, and Magali succumbs to exhaustion, her head resting on the table fast asleep. Conrad and Zoila take charge of cleaning up before preparing for bed. Gathering the leftover snacks, Conrad suggests, “why don’t you take Mags to her room. I’ll put these away for the next time we have a get-together.”

Once Conrad retreats to his room to store the snacks, a surprising turn of events unfolds. Zoila quietly enters his room, catching Conrad off guard. His words stumble, uncertainty filling the air, but Zoila silences him with a gentle gesture, whispering, “don’t wake Lili up. Relax, I just want to talk to you.”

Caught in a mix of surprise and curiosity, Conrad manages to ask, “Really? What about?”

Zoila's gaze shifts momentarily to her slumbering sister before she replies, “to be honest, I didn’t come here to become an idol. I came to check on my sister. I missed her so much after she left home to follow in our mother’s footsteps. Learning that she was living with a young man raised my concerns. I'm sorry for my behavior this morning; I simply wanted to ensure your intentions toward my sister. However, now I see that you genuinely care for her well-being, and I can ease my worries a bit.”

Conrad rubs his blonde hair bashfully, a soft smile forming as he responds, "I understand. Mags is truly exceptional, both as an idol and a valuable member of my crew. Having you here adds to that sense of security – together, we can take great care of her."

"Yes, I was like a mother to Lili while we were growing up. But I admit, things weren't always that way," Zoila shares, a mixture of emotions in her expression. Conrad listens intently, his curiosity piqued.

"You see," Zoila continues, her gaze distant as she recalls the past, "I didn't have many years with our mother. When I was three years old, she was pregnant with my sister. At first, I was excited for the new addition to our family. But then, when mother passed away, it was a devastating blow. I unfairly placed blame on my sister for her death. I resented her in those early months, believing that if she hadn't been born, our mother would still be with us. So, I distanced myself from her, thinking I'd never grow close to her and holding her responsible for our mother's loss."

Her gaze softens, and she continues, "However, that all changed when Lili was old enough to walk and reach out to me, the only other girl in the family. In that moment, I realized she needed me, and any lingering resentment dissolved. From then on, I dedicated myself to being the maternal figure Lili needed, a motherly presence guiding her until she could stand on her own. I'm so incredibly proud of my dear Lili for pursuing her dreams as an idol."

Conrad reciprocates her warm smile. "I appreciate you opening up about this," he responds genuinely.

As Zoila moves closer, her tone remains friendly but carries a hint of seriousness. "I'm sure you understand, but let me make it clear anyway.” As Zoila’s hands move closer to Conrad’s pants, he wonders what’s going on. Soon enough, Zoila grabs his crotch and crushes with the force of a vise.

As she digs her fingernails deep, causing him unbelievable amounts of pain, she warns, “if you ever hurt my little Lili, I assure you, you'll come to regret the day we met. I will crush them like grapes, and make sure you will never have children. Do you understand?" Her words are firm, leaving no doubt about her protective stance towards her sister.

“Yes, I get it! Let me go!” said Conrad. She releases him with a warm smile.

Soon enough, Magali walks into Conrad’s room, rubbing away the sleepiness in her eyes. She sees Zoila and Conrad there, Conrad clearly shivering with pain. “What’s going on?” she asks.

“Oh nothing. Conrad and I were just having a ‘small’ conversation,” said Zoila with a hint of playfullness in her tone.

“Why did you have to say ‘small’ like that?” asked Conrad.

Magali didn’t understand what happened between them, but they seem to be getting along well enough. Later that evening as Conrad and Zoila rests in their room, Magali hangs out at the balcony watching the night sky. Magali's thoughts drift as she gazes at the twinkling stars above. The events of the day whirl in her mind, a mixture of worry, surprise, and the realization that her sister's presence might not be as tumultuous as she initially feared. In the quiet of the night, the balcony becomes her haven, a place of contemplation and solace. With Conrad and Zoila settling into their room, Magali finds a moment of peace amidst the uncertainty. As a gentle breeze brushes her cheeks, she lets out a contented sigh. The first day of this new chapter has passed, and while questions remain, there's a sense of hope that lingers in the air. Magali smiles to herself, knowing that as long as she faces the future with open arms, her time in Sweet Dance City could indeed become a little more exciting than she had ever imagined.