#i've been kidding myself that it's just another rough patch and things will get better again but in reality they've been bad since april

[mhaccunoval]

beloveddddd [gently cups your face in my hands] tell me about CIFL <3

HI BELOVED <333

your ticket of admission is a kiss on the forehead <3 as i try to remember what developments have been made since i last talked about it on here...

mmm!!! one that's been haunting me lately (i probably won't actually get around to writing it so i'll share it here): i've been thinking about. well it's an intersection of inspiration from mawce by everybody's worried about owen and a troubled mind by noah kahan but. 22/23 year old maggie (pre-transition donny) going to eli (pre-transition ellie)'s college town— based on the a troubled mind lyrics 'i took a bus out to the city where you live / eaves dropped on strangers' conversations with their kids / in hopes that maybe they'd say something relevant / to ease my worried head'— while in a Weird Headspace (even a manic episode, but more on That later). doesn't get a whole hell of a lot out of it, other than more of The Weird Headspace, especially if (he) sees someone who looks vaguely like eli and/or gets spooked by any deep water around (another point to be elaborated). while somewhat Dissociated in the headspace, makes (his) way down to boston, then to new york, has a mini break in a new york hotel room including shaving (his) head. DOES, then, get home safely and shows up at the hurleys' door— the specificity of new york being important because the shaving of the head leads to (his) hat era and the hat (he) got first says NY on it. marian, god bless her, is a bit shocked at first but. she loves (him) like her own so she fixes the rough/uneven patches of hair, makes sure (he's) well-fed/comfortable, defends (him) when Joseph gets a bit prickly about the whole situation (I HAD ACTUAL DIALOGUE BUT I FORGOR; anyway, i'll elaborate on the prickle AS WELL). lets M— who does want to temporarily go by M since part of the break is gender shit— vent where (he) needs to. and. the part i'm gnawing on the most is, in the morning M's like 'hi annie...' and marian's like 'hi peach :)' because!!! dat baby's a fuzzy little peach right now!!! and. and. joseph, coming to made Some acceptance with the situation, puts a ballcap of his on M's head, probably a chicago cubs cap or something...

ELABORATION 1.) usage of 'manic episode' as i always do, i use the phrasing with careful consideration just because. i know it's not verbage to just throw around. and i use it apprehensively here just because i STILL have not determined whether donny is more bipolar or BPD, but i AM leaning BPD more so. probably in part because of pieces of him that are so very me. but i am also NOT ruling out the possibility just because in some scenes in my head, i can see things that could be a manic or could be a depressive episode. POINT BEING I'M STILL DOING MY RESEARCH AND I'M DOING MY RESEARCH AT ALL, I SWEAR.

ELABORATION 2.) fear of deep water something i really need to do is note all the music inspired lore, particularly the noah kahan inspired stuff. ANYHOW. noah's song fear of water inspired the lore that donny's scared of deep dark water, like any dark parts of lake michigan and for sure the ocean. the other side of the coin (because of course it's a coin) being that ellie was a swimmer in middle school / high school after getting over her own fear of water (inspired by 'you used to be scared of the water / you're safe by the side of your father' from glue myself shut). –– E2a.) naturally, there's a scene in my head related to all of this. in The Awkward Period after ellie moves back— another point for elaboration— what really ends the tension, besides hashing it out, is ellie making him face that fear of the water. not quite fear immersion with, like, going into the depths of the ocean, but taking a dunk in the lake, even against donny's better judgment. and grumbling about it just because it doesn't FULLY reduce the anxiety (just staves it) but he also can't fully complain because if following her word means he's regained some of ellie's trust and bond, then by god he'll do it

ELABORATION 3.) joseph prickliness it prickles me to forget the dialogue i had BUT the main subtext behind it is. prior to donny's transition, he's seen like a daughter to both of the hurley parents, so in some part joseph's always prickly about that, not because he doesn't Want a daughter but because he doesn't know how to have one (not that he knows much about having a son or a kid in general, between him & annie having ellie young-er AND his personality). and it's something he admits to ellie after She's transitioned, saying that he Still doesn't know how to have a daughter. BUT at least he's made an effort in both cases and continues to make an effort for his Blood daughter

ELABORATION 4.) The Awkward Period the awkward period is ALSO music inspired but it's more a conglomerate than anything. like the major components are two song inspired scenes i'll explain in a second but. the general notion with The Awkward Period is that it's a span of a couple months after ellie gets back where things are, well, Awkward. she's trying to handle her grief and readjust to being back home (after four years in vermont, four years in philadelphia) with whatever weird grudge she doesn't understand being held by donny as a cherry on top. and donny's still sifting through said grudge, still compartmentalizing his anger. so it's a lot of tension filled stares and cutting words for a minute –– E4a.) the major component is the Funeral stuff inspired by orange juice... which is particularly the first/last verse with the placing of the setting as a party. in my head it's the wake, everyone choosing to drown their sorrows are drinking, cue joseph & ellie in the kitchen, with donny walking in; the tension is thick as donny and ellie look at each other, and ellie, out of sheer politeness, wants to suggest that there's stuff to mix a drink with. only for joseph to interject that there's orange juice in the fridge for non-alcoholic drinking, which confuses ellie slightly but only because she doesn't know that donny's the lyric of 'and i haven't drank in six months / on the dot'. which does irk donny a bit more in stewing since that means his sobriety is yet Another piece of information that's been withheld from her / that she doesn't know and therefore another piece of him that she hasn't known –– E4b.) the other major component is the hashing out scene. which also has some orange juice inspiration but is mainly homesick (and even a hint of new perspective)... so Given homesick, it's set like two months after the funeral, donny coming over to the hurley (now just joseph's) residence to Try to make some amends, at least lure ellie out to talk some, in the VERY least go on a walk. tries to talk a bit, though superficially, about things she's missed while away, but that sours quickly. sours quickly because it easily falters into orange juice's talking of waiting so long for a homecoming that there wasn't a thought to ask where they had gone (but now asking Why they had gone). and more importantly into the fact of '[doesn't ellie] find it strange that [she] just went ahead and carried on? ... the last time [donny] drank [he] was face down passed out there in [her parents'] yard / are [they] all just crows to [her] now? / are [they] all just pulling [her] down?' WHICH. is where it turns into a hashing out because ellie bites back with the fact that her heart and her soul, more importantly her life, have changed— even the city had changed, but Somehow donny had not. and all of this continues the awkwardness and tension since now they've rubbed salt into each other's wounds, as much as they needed to hear what the other had to say (as general fact And for communication's sake)

because of being on my orange juice insanity, i'm thinking about 'you didn't put those bones in the ground' in relation to how it's worked into the story. and i forgot about 'now i'm third in the line-up to your lord and your savior'... BUT I'VE ALREADY SAID TOO MUCH IN ONE SITTING AS IS (and i haven't even touched other parts of the stick season album, like northern attitude and all my love, or anything else noah-turned-inspiration)... but do tell me if you want more insanity <3 i am willing and able to offer <3

[littlewalken]

Jul 28

Well if The Nightmare Man isn't the book I'm looking for then it's back to trying to figure out what is. Meanwhile I found a couple others I read as a kid and would like to read again.

I don't read much fiction but it falls in to these general categories- read it as a kid and want to read it again or is something I would have read as a kid if I knew it existed. Harry Potter because I read it at work and almost used a couple of the larger volumes as weapons. (not today, sometimes a book is just a book). 'Classic' or influential or important but only if I want to read them in the first place, since I stood up to that teacher I had to kill in middle school I won't read anything I don't like. Finally I found a review/summary that makes sense and perhaps this book will be interesting. I liked the movie/TV show and want to read the source material.

That last one has been the only one I've regretted, and not because the book is better or things got lost in adaptation, but a couple of movies I like came from real pieces of shit and like...

I really got to take another screen grab from this. Something Special or Willy/Milly is a sweet little movie that does the best it can for the times. It's a great companion to Just One of the Guys. Y'all want remakes? Y'all want streaming series? Y'all want LGB+ shows? Something Special could use the treatment as long as it doesn't get woke washed as well. I'm pretty damn sure Willy is Jewish and his adventures in white masculinity with that background will do nicely, thank you. Alfie's character arc will take care of a lot of the rest. Seriously, watch the movie.

But don't go looking for the book Hermaphrodiety the movie is very loosely based on. And I mean loose in the idea that the teenage gender change at high school has a million potentials but the author pushed that aside for... All you need to know is it was written by a man who must have had an adult movie catalog and checked off categories as plot points as he went because generally it's just nope.

Yes, that is Pamela Aldon https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DFkYm4IzY6M (didn't want it to auto play) The guy is Eric Gury who did a few things in the 80s you might recognize him from. And damn do they have chemistry. The casting in this is great.

Got real life to get to today. Which my sleeping could decide what it wants to do with the waking up. Need to finish a move that is entering a rough patch and make myself read a few things.

*And for the sake of keeping track of real life one of the perspective places to live at seems to be out, oh the mobility challenged people wanted the ground floor in a building without elevators?

Someone with ADA ties see if that is even legal in a 3-4 story place.

** The YA book I was looking for is called Circle of Revenge. I was on the right path searching for YA fiction 1980-1990 with brainwashing etc. Ultimately the tag that found it was 'torture fiction' because for some reason if you don't get the dashes just right it doesn't match up to 'brainwashing fiction'. Off to add it to the pile to eventually reread.

[bluecookies02]

When they make you cry

pairings: Hawks x Reader, Dabi x Reader, Bakugou x Reader, Aizawa x Reader, Izuku x Reader, Tamaki x Reader

Tamaki, Bakugou and Hawks are in a female!reader perspective, the rest of them are Gender Neutral

warnings: angst to fluff

masterlist

Hawks will get cocky, laughing in your face when he sees your shocked expression.

Both of you were going at each others throats, spitting insults to one another, just your recent daily routine.

Now Hawks knew you were a tough gal, which in his head made it alright for him to strike a really painful nerve into your chest.

As you remained speechless he turned around, a winning smirk plastered on his lips.

Just as he took a few steps forward, sobs wrecked your body as you hid your face in your hands.

"I d-don't think I can take this anymore Keigo" your broken voice reached his ears.

A pang of guilt pierced his chest once he turned around to face you.

He did this. He made you cry. He completely drained your happiness out. He hurt you.

His teeth dug into his lip, his eyes stinging as tears picked at them.

At that point, he didn't give two shits about who's right and who's wrong, his arms reaching for you and wrapping themselves around your shaking form.

He held you there for a while, listening to your cries that gradually turned into soft sniffles against his chest.

"I-" He opens his mouth but his words remained stuck at his throat.

"I don't want us to end..." you mumbled, your own words throwing you into another sobbing fit.

"We won't end here kid, I've got you...shit...I'm a fucking idiot...of course we won't end sweetheart...c'mon look at me" he raised your chin up gently, looking into your red eyes.

"I'm sorry, fuck I'm sorry...not just for today, for every day before this, I-, God... don't leave kid, p-please"

You stared at his face, tears now streaming down his cheeks as his grip on you tightened.

You swallow the lump in your throat, grabbing his hands in yours.

"Something has to change Keigo...I miss you...we've been distant for months. Sometimes you don't even come home to me, do you know how that feels?"

"I know, I know, I swear... I miss you too. I'll tell you about everything I promise. Let's go home please."

You hesitantly nod, putting your heart on the line for the last time.

And now looking back, you're glad you did.

//quirk: flesh manipulation (the reader can manipulate the molecules in a person's flesh just by touching it, making them useful mid-battle to make the other heroes ready to fight again in a matter of seconds, but also making them a threat to their enemies )

If there was one thing he despised about you, it was your guts.

Hell curse him for falling in love with someone so stubborn.

To live through a relationship with Dabi meant that you had to have though skin. You had to be strong enough to bite your cheeks and endure the issues that people in regular relationships never face.

He enters your home, covered in bruises and cuts, asking for your first aid kit.

You sigh to yourself, your usual nagging and yelling never reaching his ears.

You place the first aid kit onto your bedside table, turning your back to him, tiredly walking out of the room.

"Hey-" his voice calls out to you, quiet and confused.

You close the door behind you, making your way to your couch.

One of these days it'll be the last time he walks into your home, the last time you help him clean his cuts and the last time you hear his voice.

The weight of uncertainty pulls at your chest harder with every passing day.

He chose to continue living like this, he is the one that keeps ruining his own life, it's his ambitions that are making you this miserable.

Once he patches himself up, he sits on your bed for a while. Your silance meaning one thing and one thing only. You finally realized how pointless being with him is, you finally got it through your thick skull that he's nothing special to dwell about.

Time passes by quickly, a few hours already gone yet he's still glued to the same spot, not having the strength to leave your room, too scared to face your rejection once he gets out.

He should be happy for you, you won't be hurting anymore, you'll be able to find someone better.

He slowly twists the knob, taking slow steps through your living room.

You are laying on your couch, tear stains on your face and a tissue crumbled in your hand.

His chest tightenes at the sight. You cried yourself to sleep. He wonders... how many times did you cry over him? How many times would you just lay here as he carelessly roamed the streets?

He should leave...he should spare you the pain he brings. You were the only good thing in his life and by continuing this he'll ruin you, piece by piece.

You showed nothing but kindness to him, you made him realize that some people are worth getting close to, you being a hero also making his resolves shake under his feet.

He stretched his arm out to your cheek, careful not to wake you up.

He left a soft kiss to your temple before leaving your house.

-----

You woke up to a persistent ring of your doorbell.

You felt terrible...your hair was a mess, your nose was all clogged up and your eyes burned from all the crying.

You opened your door with annoyance, mad at whoever decided to burst your sadness bubble.

"Hey doll, I would've let myself in but my hands are kinda busy"

Your boyfriend stood there with a backpack on his shoulder and a carton box in his hands.

"So...do you happen to have a room to spare for a year or two...maybe three?"

You stare in disbelief your hand covering your mouth.

"I know that me being a villain might be a setback but...I got some hair dye? I might even consider letting you fix my jigsaw face."

Your body crashed into his, the box dropping to the ground as you squeezed your arms around him.

Maybe he can make you as happy as you make him.

You knew he was rough around the edges, but you never even imagined that you would be the one his rage would be directed at.

As soon as insults came crashing your way you left the room.

You were just trying to calm him down, placing your hand on his shoulder as you urged him to stop shouting and just let it go.

His rough hands grabbed yours, throwing your hand away like you were a mere fly, his quirk burning your skin.

You tried calling out to him just for him to snap around and scream at you.

Once you reached your dorm tears freely rolled down your cheeks.

You yearned for a normal relationship, longed for some peace and quiet just for a week or two.

Yet you just couldn't let the blonde go, always hoping for some miracle to come your way and take ahold of his ego.

--------

It's around 2 am and he can't fall asleep for the hell of it.

You're not picking up his calls nor answering his texts and you've been inactive on social media for hours.

Kirishima has been urging him to go to your dorm for two hours already, spamming him massages about him not being manly enough to win you back.

It's not like he doesn't want to, he just has no idea how to. Should he get you something? Get you some food and flowers? Where the fuck can he find all these things at 2 am? Isn't that how people in movies apologize or something...

He hates when you're mad at him, he is scared shitless of actually scaring you off and pushing you away.

A knock at your door snaps you out of your thoughts and a small flame of hope warms your heart for a split second as you make your way to your door.

He's holding a gray hoodie and a pair of bento boxes.

"That's not gonna fix it Katsuki."

"I know shitty woman you didn't even give me a chance to speak!"

You're sure that that's the first time Bakugou said the word "sorry" in his whole life.

The way it rolled off his tongue was shaky but somewhat determined, his hand grabbing ahold of yours gently.

Guilt was evident on his face as he stroked the bandages covering your hands.

"It's not that bad Katsu, and I understand that it was an accident." you mumbled trying to pull from his grip so he can focus on something else.

He grabbed ahold of your wrists, bringing your palms to his lips.

"I'll work on it, I promise. It'll never happen again. I mean it." you just give a soft nod, leading him to the table.

"Good. Now let's eat, breakfast is the most important meal of the day!" you cheered, opening the bentos and stuffing your mouth with rice.

"Y/N...it's 4 am."

"Exactly, now eat, you're not gonna let me eat all of this by myself?!"

For this man, it was close to impossible to make his s/o cry.

He cherishes the relationship he has with you, making you feel special every single day at a time.

So when he sees you crying, he's confused and alarmed.

He reaches for you, trying his best to give you the comfort he thinks you need.

When you push his hands away and scream at him...Oh boy...

He's terrified.

Did he do something? Did he forget your anniversary? Your birthday? Did he eat your snack from the fridge??

You're pulling at the strands of your hair, your head buried into your knees as you sob.

He looks around, eyes widening when he sees a photo of himself and some girl kissing on the screen of your phone.

He wasn't there? He has proof! He was in a meeting! All of his colleagues could confirm that, he just needs you to listen! Please listen to him.

He's talking...blabbering...begging for you to just look at him.

As soon as you look up for a split second, he's hugging you, smothering your face in kisses as you weakly try to push him away.

Finally he leans his forehead against yours, letting out a long sigh of relief when he realizes that you're not crying anymore.

"Please Shouta, please, if you even have any respect for me, don't lie to me." you mumble out coldly, turning your head from him.

"Y/N, I would never, ever do that to you! Never! I love you so much, please, you have to know that, you do know that!"

You're too stubborn, but he calls all of his colleges one by one, putting them on speaker for you, asking about the time of the meeting or details of the meeting and they all have the same answer.

So now, your throat is dry and there's a lump in your throat, guilt eating at you as you try to apologize.

He couldn't give two shits about any of that, all he has to know is that you're okay and that you're still his.

He's not letting you go for the rest of the day, you're wrapped under the blankets with him as he makes sure you never believe the bullshit you see online.

"Sweetheart if I ever cheat on you, that's the day I cut my own dick off and bleed to death."

It makes you giggle and then laugh hysterically and he's just looking at you with the biggest heart eyes 🥺

Izuku would never do anything to make you cry.

He pays attention to every single detail in your relationship and he especially pays attention to your feelings.

What he is really bad at, is taking care of himself.

He doesn't take in consideration how you feel when he comes home all stitched up and tired, or how he stays up late to train and push himself further than his body can take.

However one day, he is exhausted from his training and he barely has any strength left. His phone rings and he is rushing out the door, already panting.

You don't reach him in time to stop him, so here you are, hours later next to his hospital bed.

The villain wasn't too powerful, but his state caused him to pass out in the middle of the bettle field.

As soon as he wakes up, you're yelling at him, but at the same time sobbing against his chest.

"I can't just stand here and watch you hurt yourself Zuku... I can't, I can't, I can't....O-one of these days you're just gonna slip away from my hands, I can't. Please" You're grip on him softens as you loose the strength in your hands.

His arms wrap themselves around you, trying his best not to flinch as you rub against his bandages.

His eyes are watering, realization dawning on him as he holds your tired body against him.

You're right...He sees the state of himself after a lowlife villain with a pathetic quirk sent him into the hospital. He doesn't even want to think about what would've happened if there was someone much stronger out there.

"Hey Y/N...I-...I might take a week off, to rest yeah? Does that sound good?"

You nod, wiping away the tears as you sniffle.

"And you won't be training at night anymore. And you won't be staying up late!" you scold as he rubs your cheeks.

"I won't. I promise." he places a kiss at your temple, pulling you onto the hospital bed next to him.

"Let's sleep for a bit yeah? I might owe you a few hours..."

You're crying, he's crying.

He's down on one knee and he's stuttering, his hands shaking as he hears you cry out a happy "Yes".

He barely gets the ring on your finger, burying his head into your neck as soon as he gets to his feet.

You always thought that he was going to propose to you at home, maybe some homecooked dinner with roses and candles. You didn't mind that option either.

You were surprised that he even suggested a walk in the park.

I mean, it was a really small park with little to no people in the area but it was beautiful nonetheless.

You're all giddy and happy as he takes your hand in his, his eyes always glancing at the ring on your finger.

Once you spot an ice cream stand you leap in happiness, rushing to get ice cream for the both of you.

The lady selling it smiles brightly at you.

"Is that the lucky guy?" you nod grabbing your icecream as Tamaki hides behind you.

"Good job sweetheart, you're making this lady very happy, I can feel it in my old bones" you laugh at her remark as you nudge Tamaki forward.

She hands him his ice cream and winks at him.

He's blushing and thanking the lady before running off to an empty bench.

”He’s a lil’ shy but he's got the spirit” you say to the lady as you rush off to get him.

You take the time to really study the ring, the beautiful blue crystal shining in the sun.

”I...I hope you l-like it...Nejire helped me out. Uhm I probably shouldn't have said that...S-she-"

"I like it Tama...I love it actually" you place a gentle kiss just at the corner of his lips, his hands grabbing your cheeks and kissing you deeply in return.

His cheeks are warm and his lips are slow against yours but you melt against him, letting him place you in his lap.

"Oh my God, I have a fiancé, oh my God, I have to call Mirio and tell him you said yes. You said yes, right?"

You laugh as you shake your head at him, playing with his hair as he fumbles with his phone.

All of the pictures are from the original anime/manga (please do correct me if I'm wrong in the comments below)

The Tamaki one has no angst in it because I had to heal from all of the emotional rollercosters.

___________

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[prcserpina]

.

[rjcollinsauthor]

Chapter 8

Classes, dining hall, and home were my new schedule since that night with Noah. I've probably called myself every name in the book, which sent a wave of depression through me, causing me to stay in bed, eat my weight in snacks and watch reality tv. I'm caught up in another episode of Love Island when I hear a knock on my door.

"Who is it?" I asked around a mouth full of Cheetos.

"Henry." a deep voice said.

I shivered. It now hits me that I haven't been updating him on my progress in a week.

"One second, I'm just getting out of the shower."

I closed my laptop and jumped off my bed. I do the quickest clean-up humanly possible. And by clean up, I mean stuffing everything under my bed and covering it with my comforter. I used a rag to wash my face, spa some water on my body and changed my clothes from pajamas to jeans and a tv shirt. I took my bonnet off and freed my curls. When I looked decent, I walked over and opened the door.

Henry is standing there and looks as powerful as ever. Dark brown skin, almost black eyes, shaved head, and tattoos all over both arms.

"Henry! Why didn't you call?'

He walked in without an invitation, and I closed the door. I watched as he looked around the room,

"I did. Several times, in fact. Why haven't you answered? I had to get someone else to check in on you to make sure you were alive.".

"You have someone spying on me?" I asked in horror.

He waved it off like it was no big deal that someone was watching me without me knowing. He took a seat on my bed, and I cringed as we both heard the loud sound of one of the chips bags I forgot to stuff. He pulled it out and looked at it, then at me.

"Lena, do you need to be pulled out? Because we could always have someone else do this."

I shook my head. "No, I'm finishing this to the end."

"Then what's going on? This isn't like you. You haven't checked in with me, and you know your initiation is coming up?"

"Yeah, I know."

I've gotten dozens of reminders programmed on my phone.

"This was too much for you, wasn't it?"

"No!"

"Look at you, Lena; you have bags under your eyes, and I can smell whatever food you have under your bed."

"I'm not giving up. This is just a rough patch. It won't happen again, I promise. I'm doing this for us. Your sister and I. What they did to her...." I shook my head, not even daring to finish it.

Henry stood up with grief written all over his face. He walked over and pulled me into his arms, and I hugged him back. It took everything in me not to cry into his chest. Although he wasn't my real father, he was everything I needed and more.

"I love you, kid."

"I love you too." I let him go. "I need a favor before you go."

****

After that visit from Henry, I kicked myself into gear. I was wearing a white floral dress and braiding one side of my hair when someone knocked on the door. I opened it and found Jessica in a strapless white dress that goes to her ankles.

"Hey," I said and returned to the mirror to finish my hair.

"Hey?" she said, and I heard the door close. "After you literally saved my family, all you can say is 'hey'?"

I looked over, confused. "Would a 'hi' be better?"She walked over to me and wrapped her arms around me.

"You should be making me thank you on my knees."

"Not necessary, but you can pay me back by letting me go because I have serious issues with intimacy."

"Right," she said and let me go. I felt her taking in my outfit. "What are you getting dressed for?"

"The same thing as you."

"It can't be the same as me."

"It is. I'm officially going to be a new member of the Blue Rose."

"Bullshit."

"Bulltruth."

I finished my hair and applied some makeup as Jessica stared at me with her mouth wide open.

"You can't."

"But I am."

"If they find out-"

I cut her off. "I'm joining as Lena Warren. No one knows who I was other than you and the boys."

"They'll tell on you."

"Nope, because that would mean explaining to the High Court how the poor foster girl was able to get over on them multiple times. Especially since they are supposed to be these future badass leaders."

"What about Noah then? You haven't done anything to him."

"Haven't I?"

She raised an eyebrow, and I didn't explain as she followed me out of the dorms and towards the football field. We took seats on the bench and watched the scene unfold. Noah was on the field with the rest of his teammates as his coach was shouting at him, and as if he could feel me there, he looked up at me. It wasn't anger I saw, not even sadness, more like he was tired. He walked off the field, never sparing a glance back at me.

"What did you do?" Jessica asked.

I was still looking numbly at the field. This should feel good. I should be jumping with joy, and yet I just felt numb. I should have never slept with him. It's messing me up.

"All the players had to take drug tests this year because of the steroid epidemic from last year. Turns out he's been pumping steroids all this time. His results have come back. Guess he's kicked off the team. His teammates will definitely be pissed because they have no chance to win any game this year without him."

"You scare me and turn me on."

I laughed. But I understood the feeling. It was the same one I had for Noah.

"You know I only paid your dues, so you wouldn't be indebted to them, right?"

"Yeah."

"That means this is your chance. Don't show up tonight. Make yourself the last Ross there."

"But my mom-"

I waved her off. "Already taken care of. She'll be getting even better treatment, but this time with only the string of leaving Blue Rose forever."

She gave me a quick hug.

"But what about you? You can't do this alone."

"Yes, I can."

"Well, I don't want you to. Let me join. I'll help you on the inside. We can work together. It shouldn't all fall on you. Please, Lena. I know you said no strings attached, but I will go the rest of my life feeling like I owe you."

I sighed and looked over at her. "If you screw me over-"

She shook her head. "I won't, I swear."

"If you screw me over, Jess. It won't be like last time. I'll ruin you. I promise you that."

I heard and saw her visible gulp, and she nodded her head in fast motions.

"I'll do whatever you want."

I nodded. I was unsure about bringing her in but having her there would take some of the edges off. We watched the rest of the game to pass the time until tonight. And when the game was over, we got in my car and headed to the edge of town where the Blue Rose society was being held.

Tonight's event was held at a hotel that was fully booked out for only members of the Blue Rose. We got to the hotel, both got out of the car, and I handed my keys to the valet.

"You ready for this?" Jessica asked.

"Hell yeah."

[bookwyrminspiration]

For the most recent post doing my ask about Maui! (5/12/21, or 12/5/21 for the American date system I think)

Yes!! With these types of oc's they are generally parts/all of you and that can help you figure a lot of stuff out, alternatively people make oc's the opposite of themselves because of self esteem issues!! Maui is simultaneously someone I want to be, someone I do not ever want to be, and someone to help me work through my problems efficiently if I remember he exists (kinda)

It's nice being able to imagine yourself in experiences that you will never know, without it being you. I find it quite pleseant, myself.

Yes!! More characters need poor memory!! Like yeah it's more work on the author but still, I find that it'd be much more realistic to have a character forget about the Important Object entirely and make it work with literally everything else and realise hours later that it could've been so much easier

And u don't hold that against you for his name!! A lot of people do!! I just happen to vaguely remember the stories we were told in primary school and remembered this kid in primary (He was kind of a dick but whatever) called Maui. And it depends on the day!! Mostly!! He went through a real rough patch where he was basically drugged up for a while after his wife died and had a general disdain for the law when he was younger (2nd/3rd time, I'm still revising everything with this so it's all subject to change), but he is definitly getting better and going to therapy. He is definitly leaning towards chaos incarnate but full of love (I wouldn't call him stupid but his smart is the hyperfocus kind of smart so he is really only intelligent when it comes to machines and small other things but for the most part there are no thoughts. Like he is absolutly a genius, he could probably cure cancer kind of genius, but he cannot comprehend normal life properly. Everything is too loud and he wants tk do everything at once or nothing at all and sometimes he wants to do something but he can't and either starts things much too early or finishes them right before the deadline, or hyprfocuses on his machines.) But yes!! He would give off big himbo vibes. Like even if he looked all tough and scary it would immediatly be remidied by his almost comical love for his pocket mirror and his general politeness. He thinks he's figured out social situations.

Ok so the mother didn't care about him and that was like. Her big drug rage because he looks quite similar to his dad who called her out on her bullshit and left without another word and was. Not very sane. By the time she was sober enough to realise what she did, Maui had stopped the bleeding with his knowledge of basic first aid and snuck out of the house to the town healer (No emergency services unfortunately, and no growing limbs back, either) and had started to work on his metal arm. Why did he have to go straight to prosthetics? Because he all but ran after his mum did that and has no clue what she did with his arm.

As for the world he's in, I'm imagining it's a sort of prehistory thing but all accounts of magic being able to be used have been destroyed and are. Long gone. I'll have to send in another ask explaining what I've done with the world so far but yeah. The short of it is: Magic is the life-force/soul that sustains every living thing and a civilization figured out how to use it to their advantage, either through some being able to use their own life force to create these miracles, or by combing the forces of others into potions and foods. Maui (named Viktor when he was a child the first time round) was born with the ability to do magic and accidently learnt how to make his machines come to life. The full extent of it was lost to him, all he cares about was that he could zap his inanimate bird and then it would fly around and generally live, even if he felt very drained and somewhat naustious afterwards. Maui directly ties into how this civilization fell, but that's for the other post.

And yeah!! Honestly I would love the occasional magic creature. Just animals in general. And yes!! Building your own family is great!! Found family with machines and magical creatures. And yeah, Maui went "Welp, if it's gonna take up all of my thoughts all day every day then I might as well get money from it." and he did. Probably not legally for the first lot of it, but he did. And steampunk is so cool!! I dknt know many punk aesthetics but I like that one a lot. Solarpunk sounds like a vibe, imma go look up what it is real quick after I send in this ask!

And yess, children need to be protected at all costs.

I only vaguely remember that kid now but!! He is so cute!! Also the embodiment of Maui trying to make scones!! He has no clue why, but he just can't make them. If they're underbaked, he puts them in the oven to keep baking, but then they burn. If they aren't underbaked, they're burnt. On the rare occasion they aren't underbaked or burnt, they always taste horrible and that is enough to quell Maui's celebrations. The worst attempt was the time that he basically turned scones into rocks, buried them, came back a few years later and they hadn't decomposed! It's a fun story for him to tell. He keeps them in a glass case in his walk in closet.

And yes, why wouldn't this kid have to microwave them longer, if they're smoking then that means they're close to melting, you should have let him microwave them longer /j

Oh, he's tried being shorter all right! He did not succeed. But he tried! He's gotten so used to it that he barely notices it anymore. He just bonks his head into the door frames and carries on. Obviously he's paid for his doorframe to be taller, but for everywhere else...

I hope it does too! I do want to make it legitimate but still keep it fitted in with everything. I feel like he'd be quite insecure about it and feel a sense of resentment everytime he saw it so he would do everything in his power to forget, but with time he comes to drop all the things he uses to hides it and just accepts his arm. I forgot that researching was a thing that I could do but I will deifnitly do it and his arm will probably be revised somewhat! But for now, whenever he meets friends of friends he has a nice time of shaking their hand and subtly detaching his arm and leaving them holding onto it, he's got a slip that makes it look and feel like a real arm. Or it's magic. I haven't decided.

Ayyy, forgetful buddies! I forgot I even sent in this ask!! Oh, I'm sure he has lost it in the bathroom before. I say lsot but he jsut forgot he left it there. He probably took it off to shower and left it on the sink and walked right passed it once he was finished. He freaked out once he realised, though, and eventually found it.

I don't know what noodle vibes mean but for the rest, absolutly. His favourite places to just flop down and sleep include his couch and outside on the grass. If he is tired and his body let's him sleep, he sleeps. Doesn't matter where.

Pets!! More characters in published media need pets. Like average pets. Like a cat or a bird or something. Like, even of its a magical cat. Cats basically teleport anyway so I don't see the big deal. And yes!! He loves his lizard and cat!! And he often ignores the legality of something, for better or for worse

Aww, so she's like the lizard then. Except the vocal bit. But ahhh she sounds amazing!! I love it!! Bart is purposefully chaotic and is probably the incarnation of evil but is quick to comfort Maui if he's upset and will jump into Hemo's enclosure to drag him over to help.

I will tell him! He would be very happy to teach you and would frantically shove lots of blueprints in your arms and keep blabbering about it and forgetting to pause for a breath, and would try slow down and clarify anything if need be.

Yeah, I think I'm slowly figuring out my style! Writing isn't something I do often so I think it's going a lot slower than drawing, but that's ok! It makes sense! And yeah, I'm almost scared to lock him into a storyline and make things about him 'canon', I like the fluidity I have with him, but I do also want to share an authentic him with the world! But that requires a lot more planning about the type of world he would be in and how he would fit into the story. Maybe I could just write a bunch of au's about him next to the main story. I can be my own fandom.

Also wow this is so long! I have spent more than 40 minutes on this!! Its truly a feat of mine. And yeah!! You've been busy and have other asks to get to, so that all makes sense! And yay!! Also I have revised the writing I did of Maui from the outside and made it generally more comprehensible but this ask is getting long so I'll just put it in its own ask.

And yes!! It's fun!! I'm someone who grows attached to a character so making more than one meaningful character is hard, but yeah!! I birthed him with my thoughts and words!! My advice would to try do some of those '40 questions for/about my character' if you haven't already! I don't think I've done one for Maui but it would be fun, I think

-Heathen

heathen! hello! It has been a fair amount of time since you sent this in, so thank you for your patience. Also, how dare you put dates on these and reveal to the world just how far in the past some of my asks are /j (this one is my oldest aside from oh shit just remembered two in my drafts. well, aside from those this is my oldest so they're not all this old!!)

(also i'm putting this under a cut to save space)

Honestly I think the best way to write characters is if they are a part of you, regardless of whether you want to be them or not. it helps when writing them so much to be able to understand the reasons they do the things they do, even if it's a part of yourself you don't like very much. People are patterns! People are consistent, even if you can't find the pattern or recognize your own patterns. So even if you don't like it, finding a pattern and creating one to build a character or their traits off of is so helpful, and can even be cathartic, to give your issues to someone who doesn't exist and let them act according to the patterns, and then learn from them without the irl consequences. I could give so many examples but I don't want to take up space.

And it is really nice to imagine people like you in scenarios you won't be in. It's like ah...the possibility. I personally don't like to include myself in my daydreams--it feels wrong--but sprinkling pieces of myself into the world and the characters and their decisions and their interests, it's like I am the daydream. I'm not just a character in it, but everything about that world and the people in it are mine and something about that is very thrilling.

Characters with poor memory my beloved!! there are some situations where it doesn't make sense--like kotlc and Sophie with her photographic memory--but otherwise, people have awful memories a lot of the time and it would be interesting to see how that affects the story when the character can't just suddenly put together the clues at a really dramatic time. Or to see the different ways they work in order to deal with their memory. Just a few hours ago I realized I needed to bring a form to a place tomorrow, and that in order to bring it there it needed to be in my bag. but it was on the desk. So I had to within moments of realizing that take initiative to put it near my bag and on top of objects that are essential for me leaving the house tomorrow so I wouldn't forget it. it all came down to like five seconds, and it would be nice to see characters do that too!!

also wow you threw a lot of information at me right there and I am still processing all that but--he had a wife?? I don't know why that stands out to me so much I guess he seems younger in my brain, but congrats--wait no something bad happened to his wife not congrats. I'm glad he's getting help that works for him, though! "chaos incarnate but full of love" is my brain on a regular basis. I'm sure I'm not nearly as chaotic as Maui, but I will appreciate from afar as he wreaks havoc on the world entirely by accident. And being really smart about really specific things is an entirely vibe and I love it!! Though the trying to do things but brain says you can't is always annoying to deal with, so hopefully he's not suffering too much. You really went "he is incredibly neurodivergent" and I think that's incredible <33 I'm curious what makes him fond of his pocketwatch tho--

his mother is...definitely something! I'm wondering how long that drug induced rage was if he had time to do all that and also literally start building himself a replacement arm before she came down from it. I don't know a lot about recreational (or in this case maybe escapist) drug usage, but I feel like that would be...a very long high. But all that to say that's an intense childhood for Maui, like damn my dude do you need a hug??

and worldbuilding!! yay!! that's one of my favorite things to look at in a story: the world it's set in or has been created for it. From what you're saying so far, it sounds incredible! A world based on magic that can be harnessed and is tied to at least one person if not more. I won't get into all of it as you said you would send another, so I'll save my enthusiasm for there!! I can't remember at the moment if you have sent it, but either way!!

magical creatures are just yes all around. I mean, normal creatures are cool too, but like magic!! I love magic and fantasy and the impossible!! and just all the ways magical creatures can exist is so satisfying and fascinating and I love them,,so much. Found family that includes a magical creature is something that can actually be so personal. I'm glad he was also able to make money do what he enjoys, even illegally! honestly sometimes we all just gotta let loose and commit a few crimes. Petty theft, money laundering, tax evasion, you know (/j). I don't know a lot about punk aesthetics either, but I do know I enjoy them a lot and when looking at all the different kinds I agree with solarpunk ideology the most (and also like the aesthetic). But if I start talking about i'll take up a lot of space and also there are many people with a lot more knowledge than me!! Though I do hope to learn more when I can

characters who had really rough childhoods seeing children and deciding to do what they can to prevent another child from experiencing what they did....oh I love them so much. I have a few ocs like that and it's !! there's something about becoming the person who could've saved you when you were hurting that just so satisfying and evocative. Even when expressed through scones!! I will be honest i never understand the appeal of characters that are bad at cooking/baking because like...follow the recipe? You have a specific set of instructions to follow and then you'll get the result you want how are you messing that up. But you do you!! I hope Maui enjoys his not decomposed scones in a class case in the closet. that's a very specific detail of his character but I love it!!

(also the whole house smelled like smoke and that kid was just like ah yes let's do the exact same thing to see if it will solve the problem. I haven't seen those kids in forever but I jokingly told them that birds were their cousins and kept bringing it up and apparently they were repeating that even months later...maybe I shouldn't be around kids)

The benefits of being short: you can always increase your height! The benefits of being tall: ???? bonk. I hope he doesn't bonk his head too often, or that he has like a helmet he can wear when he's in public to absorb the shock of the bonk.

also slipping off his arm so that other people are holding it when they shake hands is incredible. just the absolute power that holds like..I am in awe. I don't know how much if any research you've done since you sent this but!! I hope it goes/is going well! I'm kinda in a similar situation with the wings au because I'm trying to make Dex's wings authentic to how prosthetics work in the human world so as not to erase that, while also acknowledging that his is an entirely different species that does everything different and so things would be different. Either way I wish you luck!

Forgetful buddies!! Sometimes things are super important and you're constantly trying to find ways to remember what they are, while other times it's just *shrug* and wait for it to come back to you. At any given point in time I assume there's something I'm forgetting or supposed to do that I'm not and I've just accepted it at this point. I don't think I've ever forgotten my arm in the bathroom, but I wouldn't put it past myself to do exactly that.

excellent news I also don't know what noodle vibes means. i just know it is correct and that he has them. as for sleeping anywhere...well at least he's sleeping!! that's something. Hopefully he's also well-rested, but he might be too chaotic to be. or, he's the kind of person who has the same amount of energy no matter how long he sleeps and can get through an entire day just fine on 4 hours of energy (though usually it starts to catch up with you towards the end in my experience as one of these people)

pets! more characters need them, and as a cat person I would very much like more characters to have cats whether they're magical or not. Dogs are fine they just...they make a lot of noises that really mess with me and I cannot!! process that!! I really wish I could but the moment a dog starts barking and growling I want to throw them off a cliff or strangle them to get the noise to stop, and since I can't then I just zone out really hard until they're quite. Cats do not make the icky dog sounds though!!

I'm glad you seem to like my cat! I happen to have a fondness for her, and Bart sounds incredible as well. I do not know a lot about Bart but I love him and wish him the best in his endeavors of being Maui's pet. that cannot be an easy task

I may not understand anything Maui says at first or the blueprints but I will listen dutifully along!! as for finding your writing style, that can take a while so the more you write the more opportunities you have to explore the language!! and even though put him to words can feel like locking him down, sometimes it helps to remember that drafts exist and this is just the first time you're writing it. You could write it 50 more times if you needed to! You can always go back and change things in your quest to share him with the world. And nothing is stopping you from writing your own aus!! I've done something kinda similar with an original story of mine where I take different characters and put then in other worlds and stories to experiment with how I want to write them, but it's not canon in the slightest. those two don't belong in space I just put them there temporarily.

and yep this is pretty long!! I've spent about 65 minutes answering it!! though parts of that were me getting distracted and doing other things for a minute or two but!! that's not the longest I've ever spent on an ask but it's up there. and I think I saw that you sent me the writing you mentioned, so I'll answer that later! I don't know exactly when as I'm trying to balance many things and asks at the moment, but I will get to it!

I also get very attached to specific characters and worlds. I have this whole set of like six or seven ocs that I really want to write about but whenever I start to think about them I get drawn back to this otehr group of five and i'm like wait, brain, the other people!! I'll get to them eventually though. And I might look at some of those questionaires!! Those characters are in need of some heavy remodeling, so i'd definitely need some of those basic questions to start over with.

this was a lot of information but thank you for sharing!! it's wonderful to learn more about maui and you at the same time!!

[ekkline88]

@taylorswift is my artist of the decade, woman of the decade, writer of the decade, inspiration of the decade because of the following:

‘All that I know is I don’t know how to be something you miss.’

‘You and I walk a fragile line.

I have known it all this time.

Never thought I'd see it break.

Never thought I'd see it...’

‘And there's a dazzling haze, a mysterious way about you, dear.’

‘No rules in breakable heaven.’

‘All the king’s horses, all the king’s men couldn’t put me together again. ‘Cause all of my enemies started out friends.’

‘Lyrical smile, indigo eyes, hand on my thigh. We could follow the sparks, I’ll drive.’

‘He says "What you've heard is true, but I can't stop thinking about you." and I said "I've been there too a few times." ‘

‘I reach for you, but you were gone. I knew I had to go back home.’

‘The tricky thing is yesterday we were just children. Playing soldiers just pretending. Dreaming dreams with happy endings.

In backyards, winning battles with our wooden swords. But now we've stepped into a cruel world, where everybody stands and keeps score.’

‘Long were the nights when my days once revolved around you.’

‘And you open your eyes into mine, and everything feels better.’

‘Two headlights shine through the sleepless night. And I will get you, and get you alone. Your name has echoed through my mind. And I just think you should, think you should know that nothing safe is worth the drive and I would follow you, follow you home. I'll follow you, follow you home.’

‘But I believe in whatever you do. And I’ll do anything to see it through.’

‘My mistake I didn't know to be in love you had to fight to have the upper hand.’

‘You cry; but you don't tell anyone that you might not be the golden one. And you're tied together with a smile, but you're coming undone.’

‘One night he wakes, strange look on his face, pauses, then says, you're my best friend. And you knew what it was, he is in love.’

‘And you come away with a great little story of a mess of a dreamer with the nerve to adore you.’

‘So, baby, can we dance through an avalanche?’

‘I was ridin' in a getaway car. I was cryin' in a getaway car. I was dyin' in a getaway car. Said goodbye in a getaway car.’

‘Headlights pass the window pane, I think of you.’

‘ ‘Cause we break down a little. And when you get me alone, it's so simple. ‘Cause baby, I know what you know. We can feel it.’

‘Distance, timing, breakdown, fighting.

Silence, this train runs off its tracks. Kiss me, try to fix it, could you just try to listen?

Hang up, give up, for the life of us we can't get back.’

‘If you live like that, you live with ghosts. If you love like that blood runs cold.’

‘When the sun came up you were looking at me. You were looking at me.’

‘And you were wild and crazy. Just so frustrating. Intoxicating, complicated.

Got away by some mistake.’

‘I can't resist before you go tell me this:

Was it worth it? Was she worth this?’

‘And now I know why all the trees change in the fall. I know you were on my side, even when I was wrong. And I love you for giving me your eyes, for staying back and watching me shine.’

‘I know heaven’s a thing. I go there when you touch me, honey. Hell is when I fight with you. But we can patch it up good. Make confessions and we’re begging for forgiveness. Got the wine for you.’

‘And I can see you years from now in a bar, talking over a football game. With that same big loud opinion, but nobody's listening. Washed up and ranting about the same old bitter things.’

‘The way you move is like a full on rainstorm.’

‘Your string of lights is still bright to me. Oh, who you are is not where you've been.’

‘You were all I wanted, but not like this.’

‘These are the hands of fate. You’re my Achilles heel. This is the golden age of something good and right and real.’

‘It was good, never looking down. And right there where we stood was holy ground.’

‘The water filled my lungs, I screamed so loud. But no one heard a thing.’

‘Ooh, ooh, he’s talking crazy. Ooh, ooh, dancing with me. Ooh, ooh, we could get married. Ooh, ooh, have ten kids and teach ‘me how to dream.’

‘I see the high-fives between the bad guys. Leave with my head hung, you are the only one who seems to care.’

‘The stakes are high, the water’s rough, but this love is ours.’

‘Cause darling I’m a nightmare, dressed like a daydream.’

‘Just grab my hand and don't ever drop it, my love. They are the hunters, we are the foxes and we run.’

‘Kiss me once ‘cause you know I had a long night. Kiss me twice ‘cause it’s gonna be alright. Three times ‘cause I waited my whole life.’

‘Your eyes whisper “Have we met?” ‘

‘I hold onto the night you looked me in the eye and told me you loved me.’

‘My heart, my hips, my body, my love. Tryna find a part of me that you didn't touch. Gave up on me like I was a bad drug. Now I'm searching for signs in a haunted club. Our songs, our films, united, we stand. Our country, guess it was a lawless land. Quiet my fears with the touch of your hand. Paper cut stings from our paper-thin plans. My time, my wine, my spirit, my trust. Tryna find a part of me you didn't take up. Gave you so much, but it wasn't enough. But I'll be all right, it's just a thousand cuts.’

‘Braced myself for the goodbye, ‘cause that’s all I’ve ever known. Then you took me by surprise, when you said “I’ll never leave you alone.” ‘

‘And we know it's never simple, never easy. Never a clean break, no one here to save me. You're the only thing I know like the back of my hand.’

‘Remind her how it used to be, be, yeah-yeah. With pictures in frames of kisses on cheeks, cheeks.’

‘Fighting with a true love is boxing with no gloves. Chemistry 'til it blows up, 'til there’s no us.’

‘And there in the bathroom, I try not to fall apart and the sinking feeling starts, as I say hopelessly “He said he’d be here.” ‘

‘We can’t make any promises now, can we, babe? But you can make me a drink.’

‘Is this the end of all the endings? My broken bones are mending with all these nights we’re spending- up on the roof with a school girl crush. Drinking beer out of plastic cups. Say you fancy me, not fancy stuff. Baby, all at once, this is enough.’

‘You hold my hand on the street

Walk me back to that apartment

Years ago, we were just inside

Barefoot in the kitchen

Sacred new beginnings

That became my religion, listen’

‘ When you think happiness, I hope you think "that little black dress" ‘

‘And maybe we got lost in translation, maybe I asked for too much. But maybe this thing was a masterpiece 'til you tore it all up. Running scared, I was there, I remember it all too well. And you call me up again just to break me like a promise. So casually cruel in the name of being honest. I'm a crumpled up piece of paper lying here, ‘cause I remember it all, all, all too well.’

‘I don't wanna look at anything else now that I saw you. I don't wanna think of anything else now that I thought of you.’

‘Memorizing him was as easy as knowing all the words to your old favorite song.’

‘I was riding shot gun with my hair undone in the front seat of his car. I grabbed a pen and an old napkin and I wrote down our song.’

‘Holy orange bottles, each night I pray to you. Desperate people find faith, so now I pray to Jesus too.’

‘You took the time to memorize me. My fears, my hopes and dreams.’

‘Lantern, burning

Flickered in my mind, only you

But you were still gone, gone, gone.’

‘I bet it never, ever occurred to you that I can’t say hello to you and risk another goodbye.’

‘Long, long live the walls we crashed through. All the kingdom lights shined just for me and you. I was screaming, long live all the magic we made. And bring on all the pretenders, I'm not afraid.’

‘I take a step back, let you go. I told you I'm not bulletproof. Now you know.’

‘But something happened, I heard him laughing. I saw the dimples first and then I heard the accent.’

‘I’m waiting alone now. So come on and come out. And pull me near and shine, shine, shine.’

‘I can see the end as it begins. My one condition is..’

‘And the saddest fear comes creeping in that you never loved me, or her, or anyone, or anything!’

‘Please don’t ever become a stranger whose laugh I could recognize anywhere.’

‘And when you find everything you looked for, I hope your life will lead you back to my front door. Oh but if it don’t? Will you stay beautiful, beautiful, beautiful?’

‘Why? ‘Cause she’s dead.’

[punkscowardschampions]

Jac & Savannah

Jac: Feel totally free to ignore this, and this isn't an attempt to further any more conversation between us again if you don't want it, but it would feel bizarre to pretend...well, that we hadn't known each other before, or that I'd forgotten you entirely, so Jac: Obviously things weren't great when you left but I'm fully over that as no doubt you are too Jac: As we're classmates again, it makes sense to me that we are civil and prepared to work together if necessary but I'm not going to attempt more than that, nor am I holding some kind of grudge which would prohibit the former, I thought I'd reassure you of that, as well as just say, hello, I suppose 🙂 Savannah: You're right, it would be bizarre as well as counterproductive Savannah: though, we don't actually know each other any more, two formative years having passed, so I don't see why we can't start over Savannah: treating each other like we would our other classmates Jac: That sounds logical to me too Jac: I'd be happy to treat this as an introduction opposed to a reintroduction Savannah: okay Savannah: but before we do, I just want to say I'm really proud of you for getting in Jac: You too Jac: it's amazing, isn't it Jac: better than we had even visualized and worked and prayed for Savannah: I always knew you could do it Jac: I had no doubts about you, either Jac: potential that you'd changed your course and vision but whatever you put your mind and talent to Savannah: I did think you'd go to Bath, or that I would Jac: I could lie here and say something about preferring the history and culture of Edinburgh as a city, and finding St Andrews better in X Y Z but Jac: Bath didn't happen, is the reality of it Jac: but I'm not devastated, as I once would've been to be left with my 2nd choice Savannah: We don't have to lie, it didn't happen for me either, partly because catholic school did of course, but that's not the entirety of it Jac: I try to leave lying, however innocuous and pointless, two years ago, too Jac: Karma or otherwise, just stopped feeling worth it Jac: how was your new School? Savannah: A lot of things stopped feeling worth it to me too Savannah: Oh, Sienna liked it Savannah: I did not Jac: I am sorry to hear that Jac: I can't think of anything I would've liked less than being surrounded by other hormonal, crazy, moody, bitchy teenage girls either Savannah: at least she thrived, you wouldn't even recognise her now Savannah: she's so Savannah: Loud Jac: 😂 Jac: Loud can be good Jac: at least some positives came of it all Savannah: she reminds me of how I remember Jude Savannah: but she's happy, I think Jac: I think you'd still have recognized Jude Jac: likely from a mile off, giving you time to escape Jac: I hope she is Savannah: 😄 Jac: and that you'll be happier here than you were there, too Savannah: unless either of my parents enrol, we can take that as a given Jac: I'll drink to that Jac: complimentary coffee, that is Savannah: for now anyway Jac: Hopefully the plans get a little more exciting Savannah: 🙌 Jac: Have you heard any Psych school nights being organized or do you think one of us should bite that bullet and start the group chat? Savannah: we should do it Savannah: best foot forward, you know? Jac: Absolutely Jac: Why not, eh Jac: You're in halls too, right? Savannah: Yes Savannah: where are you? Jac: John Burnet, how about you? Savannah: You only get a single bed too! Savannah: I'm in University Hall Savannah: it's so pretty Jac: The nuns taught you well then 😛 Jac: I think it's worth it for the architecture, we'll just have to remember not to roll Savannah: 👼🏾🙏🏾 Savannah: It wasn't worth ANOTHER argument with my dad about co-ed Jac: and you get to have the Libraries literally right on your doorstep Jac: I was debating it, but I'm still better in smaller crowds, that sold JB to me ultimately Savannah: if my dad didn't run my life I totally would've applied there too Savannah: I love that it has a garden Jac: I know, right? Jac: Well you can use my little patch of 🌷 🌹 🌺 🌸 🌼 🌻 whenever you like, because I'll certainly be haunting the libraries enough Savannah: You haven't lost any of your sweetness Savannah: & of course you must, I hate studying alone Jac: I'll probably be tragically uncool forever, our classmates may as well find out sooner rather than later 💁 Jac: if the sight of all those books gets too much, there's always the 🏖 for maximum studying, I'm sure Savannah: No way! I had more fun with you than I've had with anyone else EVER Savannah: they'll find all your good points Jac: 😊 Jac: Okay, we did have some fun Savannah: a lot Jac: I can't/shan't disagree with that Savannah: it doesn't feel like two years Savannah: sometimes more like twenty, or like two months Jac: It is really weird, I felt like I haven't said it because it can't be overstated Jac: but good weird Jac: are any of your friends from Sligo here too? Jac: I don't know anyone Savannah: I don't know anyone either Jac: A familiar face is a good thing Jac: as is getting to know each other afresh, they can coexist Savannah: I thought it was for the best that nobody followed me here, until I saw you Jac: Shocking as it was Jac: glad the 😱 isn't permanent Jac: I'd hate to do that to you, honestly Savannah: you don't believe I could pull it off? Jac: Of course you could Jac: but your 😄 is undeniably a better look Savannah: my lips ARE very big, I could end up looking like a blow up doll if I'm forever open mouthed from today onwards Savannah: then I'd never marry a prince Jac: Why we're here, obviously Savannah: Everyone thinks so Savannah: just because my boyfriend dumped me after the leavers cert Jac: Oof Jac: that's rough Jac: though at least he didn't steal your Summer? I guess Savannah: Oh my god! That's exactly what he said Savannah: no wonder he reminded me of you Jac: Oh God 😬 are you suggesting I should be in Sallies with the rest of the fuckboys? 😂 Jac: not the crowd I was hoping to get in with but, you know Savannah: where you are is perfect for you Jac: 🤞 Savannah: it feels right being here Jac: Yeah Jac: it really does Savannah: I was worried I wouldn't feel that when I actually got here but 🙏🏾 Jac: I thought it'd be scarier being away from home Jac: but if anything, it's a relief Savannah: you don't have to share a room with Jude any more, it obviously would be Savannah: how is everyone though? Jac: 🍵🙊 Jac: No, they're good, all doing their own thing Jac: Jesse's got his music, the kids are the same old Jac: oh, Jameson got a girlfriend though, that's cute Savannah: I can't believe one brother is literally famous and the other is adorably loved up Savannah: Sienna hasn't had a boyfriend yet, I think that's my fault Jac: Honestly, they're both unbearable now 😏 Jac: overprotective big sister vibes or off-putting dumping ex? Savannah: Jesse was always an acquired taste, which I never did Savannah: Oh, both, for sure 🤫 Jac: Musically and personality-wise, he'd agree you have a point Jac: long as she's happy, like you said Jac: always found them too distracting myself Savannah: I suppose I just always needed a distraction Jac: Clearly, that's why we aren't having this conversation in Bath Jac: for the best, in the end 🌌🔮 Savannah: I hope so Jac: Honestly, it's a better uni Jac: and I'm not just lying to myself/you to make us feel better 😂 Jac: Delia Rockford, you remember her, right? Jac: She got into Bath, so, you aren't missing out, is what I mean Savannah: I hate her Jac: She's doing International Management and German Jac: the language of the future 🤨 Savannah: She's German descent! That's basically cheating Jac: You'd think she's got a place at Cambridge studying classics the way she's been bragging Jac: they aren't remotely top in languages or whatever the hell International Management is but alright 🙄 Savannah: I'm so glad she blocked me after what happened during the party at Michelle Brennan's house Savannah: which wasn't even my fault Jac: Now that feels like a million years ago Savannah: It was Savannah: I don't think we were even friends yet Jac: We weren't for that long, in the grand scheme of things Jac: that's the weirdest part Jac: we were pretty intense, yeah Savannah: everything was pretty intense Jac: It was Jac: Isabelle is doing coaching at TUD Jac: we were never really the same but she's well in herself Savannah: She'll be incredible at that Savannah: if it had happened to me, there's no way I would've not been retaking the year Jac: I know Savannah: did you hear about my mum? Jac: No, I don't think I did? Savannah: she'll appreciate it not being common knowledge, I guess Jac: Is she okay? Savannah: She's doing better now Savannah: which I suppose means she's at about the same level as she was before I left Savannah: because she really struggled after Jac: It must've been really hard for her Jac: to have you two gone, and realize it probably was for the best Jac: did you see her much, in these two years? Savannah: not as much as I should've Jac: You can't be blamed for that Jac: you had to take care of yourself, and Sienna Savannah: but she needed me to stay Jac: Maybe she needed to sort herself out Jac: and she's getting there Jac: our parents shouldn't be our responsibility Savannah: It has to work out here, you know? Savannah: I can't go back Jac: Of course it will Jac: you're going to be fine, amazing Jac: and then you can do your masters and your Ph.D. and then marry a prince and you'll have several royal residences, neither of which will be in Dubo or Sligo Savannah: I'm just sick of things being painful, difficult is fine, but I want it not to hurt Savannah: which is a HUGE overshare if we met today Jac: it's cool Jac: I hear everyone is best friends for life fresher's week Savannah: that makes me feel a lot better Savannah: especially when I pause to consider how many of them I'm likely to cry on before it's over Jac: It's basically tradition Jac: you won't be the only one Jac: moving forward, it's bound to make you think more about what you're leaving behind, even if temporarily Savannah: I've missed you Savannah: sorry if that's like leaping over a boundary or something Jac: I wouldn't have bet on that being what you said, should I ever see you again Jac: but it's better than what I would've Savannah: It's not like this with anyone else Savannah: I can't change that Jac: I never really Jac: like I went out, people would talk to me, I'm not trying to sell a sob story here Jac: but you're right Jac: it was never the same with anyone else, not remotely Savannah: I've given you mine already, so if you have one, it's okay to tell it or not Savannah: even if I'm so embarrassed I did that Jac: Seriously, no need Jac: you were there to witness my unfinest hour Jac: I treated lots of people like shit Jac: Is, mainly Jac: but you too, in lots of ways Jac: not proud of it, but I changed, still am, hopefully Savannah: I hope you don't change too much though Jac: Yeah? Savannah: I thought you were perfect how you were Jac: And I'm the sweet one Savannah: we both made mistakes, but that's human Jac: It's been a while since anyone's accused me of being human Jac: all those exams Jac: 🤖 felt more fitting Savannah: & you look so 👼🏻 Jac: You look as flawless as you ever did Savannah: My auntie mailed all her good skincare to Sligo Jac: expect no less 🙌 Savannah: the fresher air was 🙌 Savannah: even if the rural accents took me by surprise Jac: 😵 or 🥴 surprise though? Savannah: not like 😊 😋 😍 😘 🥰 Jac: the accent here is pretty 🤭 Jac: though Savannah: which one? 😄 Jac: Valid Jac: very town VS gown Savannah: which one though? Savannah: tell me Jac: The original Savannah: very Romeo & Juliet of you Jac: Oh no Jac: am I that cliche now? Savannah: we'll see Jac: Sounds slightly concerning Jac: but I'll do my best to subvert expectations Savannah: it'll be concerning if you get distracted by some boy's accent after working this hard to get here Savannah: unless he's a prince, obviously Jac: Not changed that much Jac: I'd get disowned if I married royalty, anyway Savannah: 🚫💍👰 Savannah: just adorable heirs to the throne Savannah: 👶👶👶👶👶 Jac: adorable, illegitimate bastards ❤ Savannah: yes Savannah: or is that another cliche? Jac: Probably Jac: although if we are educated, career women now, any babies is beating expectations Savannah: except not really because every career woman is also determined to become a mother & prove she can have it all Jac: 🚫👶 it is then Jac: maybe a dissertation topic, at any rate Savannah: 😢 Jac: 👶🏾👶🏾👶🏾👶🏾👶🏾👶🏾👶🏾👶🏾👶🏾👶🏾 Jac: many as you like Savannah: they all need best friends Savannah: you have to stick to the plan Jac: Can I get through freshers first? Savannah: 🤞🏾 Jac: Please, I'm no amateur Savannah: I hope not, I'm single & the point is we do it at the same time Jac: as am I Jac: not feeling any 1st year that hard, thanks 😏 Savannah: you always date older, it's fine Jac: None of our lecturers were the one Jac: another cliche avoided Savannah: I'm not sad about that Jac: There's enough inequality of power about without actively seeking out the dynamic, agreed Savannah: ^^ Jac: the fashion show seems to have got the diversity memo though Jac: could be cool Savannah: it's going to be the highlight, I can feel it Jac: 😄 Jac: I was thinking Tues for our psych night, as nothing much is really going on Jac: what do you think? Savannah: good idea Jac: 👍 Savannah: I'll start the chat if you want Jac: You were always better at talking Savannah: when it's not that important, but when it matters, you always know exactly what to say Savannah: at least to me Jac: You're easy to talk to Jac: in a way I really could never work out Savannah: There's nobody in my life right now who would agreed with that Savannah: so it must be you Jac: my inbox full of unreads would say otherwise but Jac: I'll take it Savannah: okay, it's us together Savannah: does that make you happier? Jac: Better Savannah: your hair got really long Savannah: I'm BEYOND jealous Jac: You've got no reason to be jealous of any other girl in the world Savannah: you're not any other girl in the world Savannah: 🤫🤫 Jac: 😶 Jac: Promise Savannah: it looks beautiful, I can't cope Jac: My 😳 will not Savannah: 💗 Savannah: 🌷 🌺 🌸 Jac: Is that a dress code? Savannah: well NOW it is Jac: 😂 Jac: My wardrobe can accomodate Jac: cheers for the heads up Savannah: you're welcome Savannah: & we're all set until 💬 Jac: I better let you get on then Savannah: was it that good of a conversation starter? Jac: Solid Jac: will scare off anyone 😱 of 💗 🌷 🌺 🌸 Savannah: well I obviously don't need that negativity in my life Savannah: but I didn't mean to end this conversation Jac: We don't have to Jac: What are your plans for the rest of the day, now the obligatory are over? Savannah: don't judge me, because I know I sound like a different person, but I haven't made any Jac: Thank God, me neither Jac: I didn't know how long any of that would take Jac: nor unpacking, which is technically done but that says nothing about the decorating I wanna do Savannah: I could help Jac: Or, slightly more fair, we could check out the town, see what shops are about? Savannah: I'd like that Jac: Cool 🙂 Jac: let's have half an hour to debrief and make sure we don't look 😱 and then head out? Savannah: okay Savannah: you can put your hair up & save my life Jac: oh 🤫 Savannah: I am serious Savannah: 🚗 🚕 🚲 are distraction enough Jac: You could rock a cast Jac: but I won't let it happen Savannah: what would you write on it? Jac: That's a good 🧊breaker Jac: but I'll have to keep that secret for now Savannah: if I ask everyone on Tuesday, will you tell me then? Jac: It's a deal Savannah: it is

[whythewords]

Days 88 - 96: Kind

Home stretch for this semester. I powered through a butt-tonne of final assignments in order to be able to actually take some time to breathe over the next week between studying for exams. Co-op is locked in for May but I also applied for that other job...haven't heard anything back yet and I am...oddly relieved. It's funny, for all my wanting to press fast forward and get this shit over with, I'm over here scoffing at a potential head start. Maybe it's the universe reminding me that yeah, school is difficult and living with my folks is difficult and I've got a lot on my plate...but ostensibly I'm on fucking vacation. Few expenses to speak of, well-fed. I need to remember that when I'm losing my mind often throughout the week. I mean, I probably won't, but I'll try.

A few little nagging brushes with loneliness again the last few days but I've honest to god been so fucking busy with school that I haven't noticed as much. Another weird anomaly to some extent is that aversion to solitude...while my folks have been talking about a potential vacation in April and I'm doing my damndest to find them a good deal some place on the exact week I have a break between my study term and co-op term just to get the place to myself for a few days. I don't know what I hope to accomplish in those days that I can't while they're here aside from maybe have a couple of friends over. Certainly not bringing any girls over anytime soon.

I think what it boils down to is that my relationship with my dad is starting to get strained again. Living in close proximity to him since becoming an adult has had that effect. The years leading up to when I first moved out were a little rough, and once I was off on my own the whole "absence makes the heart grow fonder" adage took effect. I've always been closer with my mom, but that's now manifesting in unintentional ways like having dad adopt this mentality that it's us against him, or that we don't include him in things. Truthfully, we invite him to go on walks, or out to eat and he declines and then complains later on that we did stuff without him. It's all very childish and stupid...and minor. We're good in most regards, but as I alluded to in my last entry, the fact that I am living under his roof again makes me a child in his eyes and that's the part that I'm struggling with. The constant checking in, the calling telling me not to be out late...the asking of questions ABOUT me WHILE I'm in the room. He'll turn to my mom and say, "Did he eat?" "Where is he going tonight?" "Does he have class today?" I don't know, it might not seem like that big a deal in writing, but fuck man, if anything makes me feel more like a kid in an adult's body...

Funny enough, with my brother having gone through a similar rough patch to me in the last couple of years, we've seemingly grown a bit closer. I remember when I told my family that Viki and I were separating and I was crying and I was so scared that they'd be disappointed in me. That's the other thing too, dad claimed he wasn't but I'm fairly certain from his behaviour over the last little while that he is. I think if mom is disappointed she hides it well. She misses her daughter-in-law and that makes perfect sense, but it does seem like she's better able to acknowledge where I'm at stand behind me when I need it. But Farid, my brother, when I said to the family that day "thank you for being here for me" he said something like "don't ever think that we won't, not ever." And that's cool, I mean that's family right? You're always there for each other. But this felt bigger. He and I are as opposite as opposite can get personality-wise for brothers. I wear my heart on my sleeve and he tends to be pretty stoic. So it was big hearing him say that. There's my gratitude for this entry, moments like that. Anyway, all this to say, the other day he said if mom and dad are driving me batshit crazy I could always go up and crash at his place on Danforth for a few days...and come co-op season, I think I will. It'll be nice to get away for a weekend. Get a little high, play some video games, take a walk to the music store, have some killer Greek food.

It sounds corny and cliche and new-agey as fuck, but all of that be damned: I think I'm starting to learn how to be a little kinder to myself.

I hope that sticks.

[napkinnotes]

03.12.2022

"Things have been chaotic" would be an understatement. I feel like a recap is necessary.

Worked all throughout winter break really, especially with things being moved remotely for the first three weeks and the two student conferences.

Got to see Lisa and Morgan while I was home and that is always nice.

Met my brother's girlfriend (now fiance) Diana.

Came out to my mother, and she is sad and in denial of it.

Came back and worked from January 2 until mid-February with no days off.

Worked recruitment with Madi, then Madi got offered a better job and let the institution (good for her!).

Sorta did the last Atlanta tour with Madi going to the aquarium, coffee shops, donuts, other foods, and a day trip to Athens.

Had a life-changing conversation at Linda's house in Athens with her, Madi, and a bottle of champagne.

Met Madi's best friend Marissa and said goodbye to Madi.

Found out my brother's fiance was pregnant, but then she had a miscarriage.

Found out my sister's husband fucked her over once again by purchasing an expensive sports car without discussing it with her.

Nephew and niece got into a bad car accident. They are okay and uninjured, thankfully.

Had to cancel the student conference I worked months on ensuring all of my students could attend and worked all through winter break to make happen. I canceled the day of too.

Published a Lunar New Year article in the Washington Post.

Found a lion dance troupe in Atlanta that I like.

Flew home for a weekend to actually sleep and see family.

Spent a day with the kids at home and saw Lisa, again.

A student passed away and then another student try to kill themselves the next day. Then I went through the hardest 14 days of work where I literally stopped and dropped all that I was doing to handle the situation.

Nola and I are working on recovering through a rough patch where she doesn't know how to deal with or calm an anxious and upset me, so she set boundaries. I learn how to reframe how I view and approach Nola based on those boundaries and losing a comfort I thought I once had.

Jo and I are friends??? But I'm sure because it seems she is avoiding me, so I don't know what's going on anymore. We did get coffee to catch up earlier in the semester. She did have me over for curry to help. Now it just seems like she is pushing me away, and I don't know why.

I've regained all the weight I lost because of stress eating and not exercising.

I stopped talking to other close friends and family because I'm too tired to.

I'm anxious and depressed while repressing and compressing everything since I have to respond to student crises at work. Also, someone has to have their shit together in our office.

TLDR; fucking fires everywhere - work, family, health, social life, and personal life - and I'm exhausted as hell. Everything and every person I found comfort in is gone. I'm consuming myself in work as a coping mechanism, but shit, I'm tired. So tired. All I want is to lay my head on someone’s lap and have them stroke my head or run their fingers through my hair. I miss that so much. I'm so tired.

[mrserable]

Hi! I really love your art and I've been following you for some time... Seeing how you get better every time gives me a lot of courage/energy to keep on. Now I'm on a very rough patch, I'd lost something really important and now I need to start half of my life again, avoid depression. So, the question is more like. What you do to get better when you're alone on a very bad moment of your life? How do you keep giving yourself good vibes to continue? You're a huge inspiration to me, to keep going

Hi anon! First and foremost, thank you so much for approaching me. Also, thank you for following me and sticking around! I really appreciate that. When I’m having a bad time, what I do is I go back to a bunch of characters I created in high school. When they first came to my mind, I was in my worst state. Depressed, friendless and super lost in life, and turning all my sadness into those characters was amazing for me. I remember spending friday nights drawing life-sized faces of them and feeling soooo happy about finally seeing them as real people, even though I was the loneliest I’ve been. Now, whenever I feel lost, I redraw those old characters. I record myself talking about their story and future. I’ve spent hours trying to create their house on the sims. I write, draw, think about them, and eventually find myself distracted and calm because hey, at least they’re with me, and they’re mine. It doesn’t matter whether they belong to this world or another, or if they’re dogs or demons or humans or robots. What matters is that they’re mine and unique, and they’re there for me to play with.What I’m trying to tell you is that creating something on your own and for your sake could be super inspiring (even if you feel that you’ll never tell that story), and it might fuel your creativity, turning bad thoughts into something productive that might help you keep going, even if you just stay in bed trying to find out how your character eats oreos. You could even create a place, a story, a context for them, and it’s gonna be weird at first, but going back to something that’s yours, that YOU made, always helps. I hope this answer is helpful in any way possible. I feel that creating OCs might be common as a coping mechanism, but I’ve found it to be the thing that’s fueled my creativity and drive for years. As I said, it can feel weird at times, but when we were kids we used to invent imaginary friends all the time, so why not do it now? I hope everything gets better for you, and hey!!! If you’d like to talk privately, or just need someone to listen to you for a while, my askbox is always open.

[fateshaped-a]

" i've made sO many mistakes, but... you're not one of them. " avery @ dave !!

     leaning against the kitchen counter, the paranormal investigator lowered his head. they had just shoved the dishes away into a dishwasher, the kids having crawled to bed and left the two of them to be alone; it felt a bit strange to be part of something as domestic as this, even now. he might have had avery’s arms on each side of his body and the fireman’s face as close as possible without forming a kiss, but the domestic side to it still felt strange from time to time. not only did it feel like he had a home among the walls of avery’s place, but david felt as if he… halfway belonged there now, with him, with the kids. a somewhat mismatched family, but one that seemed to go along just fine.

     it wasn’t supposed to be this way. it wasn’t. not originally. there had been a time where no strings were attached and their goodbyes were a ‘i’ll call you’, an empty promises that always brought them to new meetings. over and over. the scent of hotel sheets and cheap booze still lingered in david’s mind. there was a time where they had no strings, and now he wore the man’s t-shirts and tucked kids into bed.

     when had he become so dull? when had he decided to… grow up?

     “ it was a close call to be a mistake though… you know that,” david mumbled in return. his head canted, leaning on top of his shoulder so he could gaze up and over at avery; “ ~ look me in the eye and say that… there was never a time you thought i would leave you?” 

     he only said it because he knew avery, and he had always known him. there had been the shifting gaze. the way his kisses had turned deeper and warmer over time, especially when they had been apart for long and david had talked about other adventures. god, all the times his grasps had been passionate with such longing strokes; david had picked up on the change in the fireman’s heart, but he had been selfish enough to stick to himself. it had only been fun games for him back then. they were supposed to be friends with benefits, never to set foot into romance ( david hated falling in love // love was a waste of energy // it was just never meant to be ). yet, with every passionate meeting there had been stories, and with every story there had been a new perspective of avery. he was a hero, and a father. a lover, and a fighter. patched up together, david’s head had sewn together the image of a catch, a man someone would be lucky to have one day — but he hadn’t planned for that someone to be him. especially not when he had met the kids for the first time.

     but oh — things had changed.

     a thumb brushed against avery’s wrist as david caught the troubled gaze on the man’s face. had it been last fall he wouldn’t have uttered a thought, but this was different; “ h—hey… hey… ~ you don’t have to answer… i already know the answer to it, avery…” and the answer made him hurt.

     “ there are days i think back on what we had… back when i didn’t think i wanted anything to do with commitment, but i don’t look back at it with envy or longing…” david said, voice delicate as he brought his head back up to avery’s level. a small bump came as he pressed their foreheads together, eyes locking as arms moved to drape around the man’s waist. “i look back at it… with regret, mostly because i didn’t exactly treat you with respect, but also because i wish i hadn’t… done a lot of things, such as sleeping with other guys while sleeping with you, too…”

     albeit, that was how the situation had played out. he had played men like cards, flipping through them without as much as a single thought, only to slide into bed with the closest person ( female or male ). hot, heavy and steamy nights lined up, one after the other, only for him to go back to avery. there had been so many people, yet — only one who got to be rough with him. a sign of trust. david had only ever let avery’s hands go further — not because he didn’t find a better partner, no, but because he trusted him. the man had been a father, someone with love to give. someone who knew his limitations, and someone who knew when to stop. it had been traits david had admired. traits he had given in to.

     traits that had guided them to this point, pressed together by the kitchen counter after a movie night with his children. god. he loved those kids now. there was not a day when he did not think about this tiny family.

     lips parted in a heavy sigh as david nudged their noses together. “i don’t want to be a mistake. not now, not ever. if i ever were to hurt any of you… i don’t think i’d be able to live with myself…” a firm tug around avery’s waist coaxed the fireman closer, just so david could lock their lips in a soft kiss. it was short, but sweet, parted in a slow manner so he could settle for a new forehead nudge.

     “ i love you… you know? you… and the kids… what we have here together, no matter how early the mornings are, or how ~ silly the cartoons are…” he whispered, vision scanning avery’s eyes anew. this was where he belonged. this was home now. there was no morning without the children, nor a dinner without them by the table. heaven knew the weeks without the small rascals were lonely. sure enough, david had his time with avery. adult time. but even adults needed their family every now and then. david knew how badly the other wanted to get his kids back and he had started to long with him. he had no right to, but he couldn’t help it. david had gotten attached to them. he had gotten attached to the happiness they brought to avery — it was way beyond anything he could do for him. if there ever came a day he could provide avery with the chance of experiencing that joy every day, he’d grasp it in the blink of an eye. 

     with another kiss to avery’s lips, dave muttered yet another confession; “…it almost makes me want to move in with you, all of you.” one day, maybe?

[textsfromstarfleet]

TOS Bones: Not to bring everything way down but I've been depressed for 10+ years and i'm hitting another major depression patch instead of the normal Dysthymia (yay for double depression). As my favourite member of the Enterprise crew and a doctor - is depression curable in the future? Any words of strength you can share for when times get rough? (I know to go see a doctor if it gets bad dont worry I'm not asking for legit medical advice)

Listen, kid…

I wish I could tell you that I don’t know what you’re talkin’ about. That in the “future” depression is as outdated as… the Black Plague would be to you. I wish I could say that we have magic happy pills that cure everything, but…

We don’t.

Mind you, treatment’s improved immensely. The medications we have are exponentially more successful, people are more educated on the warning signs, and rates of suicide and self harm are down across the board. 

But the human mind… humanity in general is hard to understand. I’m not a psychiatrist either. This isn’t my field of expertise, and I’m glad you said you know to go see one if you need to. 

So here’s the only advice I can offer (and I know how annoying this is gonna sound, but it’s true)

It gets better.

Humanity moves on. It heals. We ignore every sane thought in our heads and we launch ourselves into space in tubes of metal just to conquer the cosmos. We meet beings like Mr. Spock, though not all of ‘em are as bad as he is, and we explore strange new worlds just to say we are here. We are here and we want to learn.

Terran… Earth gets better. We learn how to fix our mistakes, stop polluting, clean things up, save animals and plants and people.

Darlin’… I wish I could tell you the answer to all this. I really do. But humanity’s still figuring things out, and I guess I am too. Strange to think that someone as old as myself is still figurin’ life out, huh? But that’s life. Just when you think you know all the answers, more questions come along.

Words of strength, though, I can offer;

Inside you is the potential to make yourself better. And that is what it means to be human.

Spock once said “change is the essential process of all existence” and I think he was right (though if you tell him that, I’ll deny it). Things change, sweetheart and you can make them. 

And if all else fails… look to the stars, and dream of tomorrow. 

[ererigarbage]

You must remember, young thespians, learning is never seasonal.   So, do allow the shimmering lights of summer to refresh and illuminate   - your fertile young minds. - What's she talking about?   The future greets you with its magic mirror,   reflecting each golden moment, each emboldened choice.   Dude, Miss Darbus has snapped her cap.   Dude, you're actually listening?   Yes, Jason.   So, what was your favourite summer memory, Miss Darbus?   Summers have passed fleetingly since I was your age,   but I remember each with poignant clarity.   Summer. Summer.   Summer.   Summer.   - Summer. - Summer.   - Summer. - Summer.   - Summer. Summer. - Ashland Shakespeare Festival of...   - Summer. Summer. Summer. ...'88 leaps fondly to mind.   What time is it? Summertime   Hey It's our vacation   What time is it? Party time   That's right Say it loud   What time is it? The time of our lives   Anticipation   What time is it? Summertime   School's out Scream and shout   Finally summer's here   Good to be chilling out   I'm off the clock The pressure's off   Now my girl's what it's all about   Ready for some sunshine   - For my heart to take a chance - Oh, yeah   I'm here to stay, not moving away   Ready for a summer romance   Everybody's ready, going crazy Yeah, we're out   Come on and let me hear you say it now, right now   What time is it? Summertime   Hey It's our vacation   What time is it? Party time   That's right Say it loud   What time is it? The time of our lives   Anticipation   What time is it? Summertime   School's out Scream and shout   Goodbye to rules No summer school   I'm free to shop till I drop   It's an education vacation   And the party never has to stop   We've got things to do We'll see you soon   And we're really gonna miss you all   Goodbye to you and you   And you and you   Bye-bye until next fall   Everybody ready, going crazy yeah, we're out   Come on and let me hear you say it now, right now   What time is it? Summertime   Hey It's our vacation   What time is it? Party time   That's right Say it loud   What time is it? The time of our lives   Anticipation   What time is it? Summertime   School's out Scream and shout   No more waking up at 6:00 a.m.   'Cause now our time is all our own   Enough already, we're waiting Come on, let's go   Go out of control   All right   Everybody   Yeah   Come on   School pride, let's show it We're champions and we know it   Wildcats, yeah, are the best, yeah   Red, white and gold   When it's time to win, we do it   We're number one, we proved it   Let's live it up, yeah, party down   That's what this summer's all about   What time is it?   Summertime is finally here Yeah   Let's celebrate   We wanna hear you loud and clear now   School's out   We can sleep as late as we want to   It's our time   Now we can do whatever we wanna do   What time is it?   It's summertime   We'll be loving it   Come on and say it again now   What time is it?   It's party time Party time   Let's go and have the time of our lives   Let's go   Yeah   No, but seriously, guys, this summer I gotta make bank.   My parents keep talking about how much college is gonna cost.   Yeah, my folks are gonna match whatever I make,   but I gotta get hired first.   Me, too. I'm saving up for a car,   so I can take that little hottie on a proper date.   Gabriella.   I understand you've moved every summer for the past five years,   and I'd hate to think today is goodbye.   No worries. My mom promised I'm here until graduation next year.   Bless Mom's little heart.   Sharpay, we got off to a rough start, but you really came through.   I mean, you helped me with the winter musical.   I did?   Those vocal exercises?   See you.   Gabriella and I have had, like, five job interviews,   but we keep getting beat out by college kids.   Yeah, same here. I guess I'm back in the babysitting business.   Hey, Martha. Hey, Taylor.   Hey, Kelsi, what are you planning to do this summer?   Grow, write music. Grow.   Your summer activities consultant has arrived.   Hopefully some of those activities will include a job.   Hey, whatever happens, as long as we're together, it's cool, right?   You promise?   Here's my promise.   - "T" as in Troy? - Well, I... Yeah.   Hey, man, how's it going? There you go, boss.   Hoops. Let's go.   Yeah, sure, sure. We're not busy or anything. Let's go.   We could go to the movies, download music.   Oh, I'm definitely teaching you a twisted-flip on the skateboard.   Oh, and I have first-aid training, so I can patch myself up afterwards.   All right!   "Going to movies, listening to music.   "And, golly, Troy, I have first-aid training."   Oh, please.   Oh. Come here, Kelsi. I have a summer job for you.   At our country club.   Our rehearsal pianist is evidently moving.   Or hiding.   - Pardon? - Sounds great.   Cheer up, Shar, it's summer.   We can do whatever we want to. Everything changes.   Ryan, who's the absolute primo boy at East High?   I'd say Troy Bolton has that category pretty much locked up, don't you think?   And East High's primo girl?   - Just answer the question! - Gosh, you?   Troy, Sharpay. Sharpay, Troy. Sharpay...   Shar.   - It just makes sense. - Evidently not to Troy.   But it's summer, Ry. Everything changes.   What time is it? Summertime   Hey It's our vacation   What time is it? Party time   That's right Say it loud   What time is it? The time of our lives   Anticipation   What time is it? Summertime   School's out Scream and shout   Nice workout, fellas.   - I'm starving. - Me, too.   I'll tell you what. I'm seeing moves I didn't see last season.   - Keep it coming, guys! - Yeah. What team?   Wildcats!   All right!   Yo, time for milk.   - So, guys, how's the job hunt coming? - The big zero.   - Girlfriend alert. - Talk to me.   This is Thomas Fulton, General Manager   of Lava Springs Country Club here in Albuquerque.   I understand you've been looking for summer work.   Hey, Troy, does Gabriella still remember your name,   or did she find somebody new to karaoke with this summer?   That sounds fantastic, Mr Fulton. But how did you get my name?   Well, we've always had a student summer work programme   here at Lava Springs. So, are you ready?   Here's the thing. I know the most amazing girl... I mean, student.   Straight A's, quintuple straight A's,   and it would be so amazingly perfect if...   Man, he's really working someone.   It can't be Gabriella. Whenever she calls, he just blushes.   Yeah, I never said that.   Yes!   - What's up, dog? - Nothing. Nothing. Nothing!   Okay. I'll tell you what, you guys stick together this summer,   you work on the game, and we are talking back-to-back   - championships next fall. - Yeah!   Can we all redirect this energy by carrying in the groceries?   - Yes, Mrs Bolton. - Yes, Mrs Bolton.   Hey, we're kicking off another hot summer here in Albuquerque.   So, for those cool enough to have a convertible,   crank up the sound, breathe that fresh air,   and say hello to summer!   Miss Evans, Mr Evans, looking very sharp this summer.   Welcome back to Lava Springs.   Thank you, Charles.   Hi, boy!   Oh, can you find some shade for my car?   - Even if we have to plant a tree. - Fulton.   And may I say, welcome back.   It's good to be home.   Are the flyers ready?   This year we embossed the flyers for the show.   Inspired.   I plan to limit member talent auditions to 30 seconds each.   Amateur performers are very...   - Draining? - Yes.   Understood.   And should I...   We be so fortunate as to win the Star Dazzle Award again.   But where would we put it?   We're planning on expanding the trophy case.   The designs are in my office.   - Fulton, you are so efficient. - Well...   The staffing matter we discussed?   Done. With discretion.   Fabulous.   - Oh, stop it. Yes. Yes. - Ryan!   - Sharpay! - Girls.   Your chaise in its usual spot, Miss Evans?   Thank you, Javier.   Emma, Jackie and Lea, east of me.   Oh, and you'll be a prince to angle our chaises on the hour, as the sun moves.   Well, thanks to the kind words from your mother last season,   I've been promoted.   But, no worries, I'll make sure that the new lifeguard   is fully briefed on just how you like things.   So, what's the theme of the summer talent show, Sharpay?   - Redemption. - Love it.   It was a very trying year, ladies.   My drama department was invaded by outsiders,   singers coming from the chemistry lab and locker room. Shocking, really.   Sis, we've got the pool, the entire club, and the whole summer to enjoy it.   And the spa has been redone.   There's a guacamole facial and a seaweed body scrub on the menu.   What could be more fabulous?   - More ice. - Right away, Miss Evans.   It's out with the old And in with the new   Goodbye, clouds of grey Hello, skies of blue   A dip in the pool A trip to the spa   Endless days in my chaise The whole world according to moi   Excuse me.   Thank you.   Iced tea imported from England   Lifeguards imported from Spain   Towels imported from Turkey   And turkey imported from Maine   We're gonna relax and renew   You go do   I want fabulous That is my simple request   All things fabulous Bigger and better and best   I need something inspiring to help me get along   I need a little fabulous Is that so wrong?   Fetch me my Jimmy Choo flip-flops   Where is my pink Prada tote?   I need my Tiffany hair-band   Then I can go for a float   A summer like never before   I want more   She wants fabulous That is her simple request   All things fabulous Bigger and better and best   She needs something inspiring to help her get along   She needs a little fabulous Is that so wrong?   Fabulous pool   Fabulous splash   Read my lips.   Fabulous parties Even fabulous trash   Fabulous fashion   No.   Fabulous bling   Yeah.   She's got to have fabulous everything   Nothing to discuss   Everything's got to be perfect for...   Me!   She wants fabulous That is her simple request   All things fabulous Bigger and better and best   She needs something inspiring to help her get along   She needs a little fabulous Is that so wrong?   This won't do That's a bore   That's insulting I need more   I need, I need, I need I need, I need, I need   I need fabulous   I want fabulous   Fabulous hair, fabulous style   Fabulous eyes and that fabulous smile   Oh, I like what I see I like it a lot   Is this absolutely fabulous?   Fabulous, fabulous, fabulous   Absolutely.   Not.   Yeah!   I got you. I got you. It's okay.   - What are you doing here? - I'm the new lifeguard.   Wait, are you a member here?   I told you to hire Troy Bolton, not the entire East High student body!   You told me to hire Troy Bolton. "Whatever it takes."   Well, why didn't you warn me about the rest of them?   I did discuss the matter with the Lava Springs board, of course.   The board. You mean, our...   Mother!   Gabriella Montez and the Wildcats? Mother, how could you?   Think of your future, kitten.   These are your school chums, not the fuddy-duddy Lava Springs staff.   These are not my chums!   They'll steal my talent show.   And what fresh talent you'll have for your summer show.   Mother, did you hear what I just said?   Ryan, talk to Mother.   - Hi, Mom. - Ducky! How's my dashing boy?   Tell pumpkin if she worries too much, she'll get frown lines.   Namaste.   - I want them out! - But your mother specifically said...   Oh, don't mention that backstabbing yogini to me!   If you can't fire them, make them wanna quit.   I'm hoping Chef Michael's gonna teach me   the art of Austrian flake pastry.   And Sharpay's gonna be where I work every day.   How much better can summer get? Right? Right?   - A real dream come true. - Lf you actually get to know her,   - I mean she's... - Dude.   Hey, I didn't even know Sharpay's parents owned this place.   Mr Fulton just said, you know,   there's Wildcat fans at Lava Springs, and jobs are available.   So, I said let's go for it.   Inspiring, Mr Bolton. Truly inspiring.   However, what we're looking for from all of you,   is not inspiration, but perspiration.   Confirming assignments. Bolton, Danforth, waiters.   And, when needed, caddies.   What?   Miss McKessie, I'm told that you're efficient.   - Well... - Prove it.   You'll handle member activities. Keep me in sight at all times.   Kelsi, piano. Lunchtime and cocktail hour.   That means mood music, not new music.   Capisce?   Martha, chopping, cutting, preparing plates.   Do complete the summer with the equal amount of digits   I assume you currently possess.   Oh, Zeke, you will assist Chef Michael in the...   The promised land.   You hold on to that.   Mr Fulton, Your Excellency, sir,   would it be okay if we draw straws to see who has to wait on Sharpay?   Please, none of you will be waiting on Sharpay.   Oh, yes. Snap.   - You will be serving Miss Evans. - Who's that?   Always address our members as Mr, Mrs, or Miss. Let's practise.   - Do we have to? - Shall we?   "Miss Evans, would you care for lemonade?"   Actually, I'm not Miss Evans. I'm Jason.   - It smells so good and I am so hungry. - No, wait. You don't...   - No, no, no. - What's for lunch?   Miss Montez.   It would seem your lunch break does not start for 3.5 minutes.   I do hope no members drowned in your absence.   Henceforth, do clock in and out on time.   Three infractions of any kind, and your employment is terminated.   Capisce?   Chop, chop, chop.   - Okay, that man officially scares me. - Yeah.   Suddenly, I'm beginning to miss detention with Miss Darbus.   - How sick is that? - Come on.   We got a hoop out back, two free meals a day,   and we only have to wear these stupid outfits on duty.   All for one, and one for all. All right?   - This is our summer. Now, what team? - Wildcats!   - What team? - Wildcats!   Come on.   How did we get from the top of the world to the bottom of the heap?   I don't recall you mentioning the boss is such a creep   We still have the ingredients to make this summer sweet   Well, we got rags instead of riches   And all these dirty dishes   Just wish I had three wishes   Okay, guys, break it up.   We've got to work, work to work this out   We'll make things right The sun will shine   If we work, work, there'll be no doubt   We can still save the summer if we work this out   Dude, what have you gotten us into?   Come on. We can totally turn this thing around!   I'd rather face a seven footer straight up in the post   Yeah That sure beats hanging here   And burning someone's toast   I needed Benjamins But this ain't worth the stress   Maybe there's a better way to fix this greasy mess   We're a champion team A well-oiled machine   And we've faced tougher problems than this   I know it's a grind But I'm sure we can find   A way to have fun while we get this job done   We've got to work, work to work this out   We'll make things right The sun will shine   We got to work, work There'll be no doubt   If we all come together We can work this out   Let's work it!   Tell me what you want   Tell me what you need   A little bit of sugar   A little bit of butter   It's the perfect recipe   Payday It'll taste so sweet   Payday Good enough to eat   Gonna make some motion pictures   Hit the mall with all my sisters   Get tickets to the Knicks and Sixers   Kick it with the music mixers   Buy a ride that suits my style   Lounge around the pool awhile   Make a date with my favourite girl   We've got it made   Whoa, we've got to work, work to work this out   We'll make things right The sun will shine   If we work, work, there'll be no doubt   We can still save the summer If we work this out   Work this Got to work this   We can work this out   So, can we work this out?   Yeah, we can work it out.   Send the waiters right in.   Miss me? Of course you did.   Hey, you ever been on a golf course?   We're employees, Troy. Not members. And I don't play golf.   Who said anything about golf?   Are you sure it's okay for us to be out here?   Yeah, unless the jackrabbits turn us in.   So, how's kitchen duty?   Oh, you know, the team that washes dishes together, wins together.   My mom said summer jobs look good on college applications.   All part of the frightening concept called "our future."   Are you worried?   Hey, college costs a fortune.   My parents are saving pennies, unlike the people at this place.   You're a cinch for a scholarship.   I'm only as good as whatever happens next season. It's...   I always liked the idea of being in charge of my future,   until it actually started happening.   So, let's just think about right now,   because I've never been in one place for an entire summer,   and this means a lot to me, especially being here with...   Such an outstanding peanut-butter and-jelly-sandwich maker like me?   I want to remember this summer, Troy.   - Here, catch. - Oh, I love this game.   - Ready? - Go.   - Beautiful. - Very nice! Oh. Your turn.   - You didn't catch a single one of them. - You...   That was so bad.   Fulton, when I was on the fourth fairway today,   it seemed bone dry.   Oh, no way!   Could you tell maintenance to give it a little extra splash?   No way!   - May I have this dance? - Why, of course you may.   Let's go then.   You are gonna get so wet!   Yeah!   Keep an eye on them tomorrow and keep me posted.   Why are you smiling?   No worries, Ryan. This is our turf, remember?   First a break-time infraction, now frolicking on the golf course.   We are not off to an auspicious start, are we, Miss Montez?   Actually, Mr Fulton, this was my idea, so she's...   How gallant, but irrelevant.   We won't allow this to happen again, will we?   Good morning, everybody.   - Good morning. - Good morning.   - Smells good. That smells good. - Hey, Martha.   - Hey. - Hey, Jason.   - Hey, morning. - What's up?   Yeah You are the music in me   - Sounding good, Kels. - Thanks.   Actually, I need to go get ready for the ladies' luncheon.   Won't exactly be rocking out.   You know, I am so excited about the club's talent show.   I mean, the employees get to do a number,   and I have ideas for everyone.   You guys can sing the lead,   and maybe Zeke and Chad can do backup,   and everyone can dance.   Big timeout on that one.   My singing career began and ended with the East High Winter Musical.   I'm just here to make a cheque and sneak in the pool after work.   That's... That's really it.   What was that you were playing a minute ago?   Oh, it's... It's nothing. It's just nothing.   What's this?   Well, I was thinking if you'd do the show,   that I wanted to be ready, and I wrote this for you guys.   Come on. Go.   Yeah   You are the music in me   You know the words "Once upon a time"   Make you listen, there's a reason   When you dream There's a chance you'll find   A little laughter, or happy ever after   You're harmony to the melody   That's echoing inside my head   A single voice above the noise   And like a common thread   You're pulling me   When I hear my favourite song I know that we belong   Oh, you are the music in me   Yeah, it's living in all of us   And it's brought us here because   Because you are the music in me   Yeah, yeah, yeah   You are the music in me   It's like I knew you before we met Can't explain it   There's no name for it   I sang you words I've never said   - And it was easy - So easy   Because you see the real me   As I am, you understand   And that's more than I've ever known, oh   To hear your voice above the noise   And know I'm not alone   Oh, you're singing to me   When I hear my favourite song I know that we belong   You are the music in me   It's living in all of us   And it's brought us here because   You are the music in me   Together we're gonna sing   We got the power to sing what we feel   Connected and real   Can't keep it all inside   Oh, yeah   Oh, yeah   - Oh, yeah - Yeah, yeah, yeah   You are the music in me   Oh, yeah   Oh, yeah   You are the music in me   When I hear my favourite song I know that we belong   We belong   You are the music in me   It's living in all of us It's brought us here because   You are the music in me   Oh yeah Oh yeah   You are the music in me   Yeah   - Oh, I love that song. - Great job, Kels.   Oh, I've got the talent show sign-up sheet right here. Are you in?   Maybe we can work this out, but only if we're all in this together.   Yeah!   This is going to be fantastic.   I'm going to coordinate rehearsal to coincide with all of our schedules.   Goldenthroat, this is Jazz Square. We may have trouble.   Now, it's an amazing song, but Kelsi didn't write it for us.   Hi, Mom.   - Seaweed scrub, darling? - Maybe later.   Ryan, it might be wonderful if Troy participates in our talent show.   What? If he sings with Gabriella   then our whole show is going to be the "Troy and Gabriella Show."   I'm not certain Gabriella is ideally suited   to help Troy realise his full potential at Lava Springs.   Mommy, what time is Daddy gonna be here?   We tee off at noon. Join us?   Love to.   Up. And how shall we get to the food today, sir?   - I don't know, perhaps skipping. - Very well then.   Shall we?   Hipty scouty, hipty skipty, hipty skipty, hipty skipty...   Danforth, Bolton, you're caddying today.   $40 a bag. You've been requested.   - What? - By who?   Dude, who cares? For $40, I'd caddy for Godzilla.   Close, very close.   Thank you.   - Thanks. - Thanks, man.   Hey, boys! So, Troy, I thought it was time for you to meet my parents.   Enchantée.   - Awesome. - Hi.   Hello.   So, where's your dad?   Hi, Daddy!   Where's the first tee and what's the course record?   I'm just kidding. I built the course myself and I hold the record,   but who's counting? Princess.   - Son, you've been working out. - Yoga.   Bring that around, there you go. Quite a season you boys had.   Oh, Troy played for the golf team, too, Daddy.   Oh, versatile. How about you, son?   - Baseball. Track and field. - Outstanding.   Might come in handy the way I play golf. Fair warning.   Fore!   - Brilliant, darling. Brilliant. - Lovely.   Chad, you'll be caddying for Mother. Troy, Daddy.   Daddy.   Bravo!   Brilliant. Let's take a walk.   - Is that a new outfit? - Yes, just this morning. And yours?   This old thing? I got it last week.   Come on, Chad.   What do you think?   Well, it's 190 to the pin, downhill lie, elevated green.   I'd go with a full five, sir.   Hi.   - Nice call. - All right.   Princess, grab your pitching wedge. This one's yours.   Thanks, Daddy.   Line it up.   That's my girl.   That girl needs to take up knitting.   Or some sport where she can only injure herself.   - I'm in the sand. - Me, too.   Knees, hips, shoulders, hat. Good. Drill it.   Backboard.   Yes!   That's my boy.   - Where... - I have no idea.   Gabriella! Dinner tonight? Sneak a swim?   Troy!   - Oh, lovely, darling. - Nice.   Daddy, why not let Troy try a shot?   - Of course. Of course. - No, I shouldn't.   - Come on. - Are you sure?   - Yeah! - Yes, sir.   - Are you sure it's okay, Mr Evans? - It sure is.   - Give it a ride. - Thank you.   - Here you go, Daddy. - Thank you, dear.   - That's a beautiful swing. - Really beautiful.   That is a beautiful swing.   - That was awesome. - Thanks, man.   - Come on! What do you say we... - What? I don't know.   Off we go.   I'm saving up for a car. I'm saving up for a car.   Well, Tiger Woods would have been proud to make that putt!   What a shame that Troy is only bussing dishes all summer,   given that he's a potential star for your alma mater, Daddy.   I've seen Troy play basketball.   I think the U of A Redhawks will be very interested in him.   That's inspired, Daddy. Troy is very concerned about college.   - Really? - Yeah.   - How's Coach Bolton these days? - Oh, fantastic.   Outstanding.   What?   Oh, next time I see Country Club Princess,   I'm gonna launch her and her pink cart straight into the lake.   I'll build the ramp, buddy.   Danforth, this is a kitchen, not a day spa.   You and Jason suit up for dinner duty in the dining room.   Bolton, you have five minutes to change and come with me.   In case you're not familiar with this particular item,   it goes around your neck,   like a dog collar.   Chop-chop.   - And she stepped on the ball. - I did not.   - Yes, you did. - I can believe that.   Hey! Here's our superstar. Troy Bolton, this is Peter.   - Peter. Good to meet you. - How are you?   - This is Claire. - Hello.   - And you know the family. - Hello.   This kid's pretty handy on the fairways as well as the hard court.   Bet you worked up yourself an appetite   lugging those bags all over the place, huh?   Yeah, yeah. A little bit.   What do you say we get some food, and we can talk about your future.   - My future? - Yeah, sit down.   Have a seat.   Daddy's on the board of directors at the University of Albuquerque.   So, Troy, I saw your championship game. I mean, wow!   That last-second shot at the buzzer... Outstanding.   Actually, my teammates here stole the ball,   otherwise I wouldn't have had a chance...   Oh, you're much too modest, Troy.   You were voted MVP for the entire season.   This shirt positively screams for a Windsor knot.   - Thank you. - Let me get that for you.   You know, we've got a heck of a basketball programme over at U of A,   and an excellent scholarship programme as well.   Scholarship?   Yeah. You know, between the two of us here,   we... We pull a little weight over at the school.   Well, time flies when you're having fun,   but Mr Fulton will probably want me clocking out.   Come on. Don't be silly.   You haven't had any dessert, and we haven't talked about golf, yet.   Oh, basketball and golf are just the beginning with Troy, Daddy.   Have you heard him sing?   Oh, triple threat.   Oh, how wonderful. Troy can participate in the talent show.   Oh, come on, Troy. Give them a sample. Kelsi!   Kelsi. No, actually my voice is...   Is feeling a little bit hoarse tonight, you know, all the talking.   But thank you very much for the food and the golf and everything.   It was amazing.   But you will sing some other time, though? With me. Promise?   - Promise. - Perfect.   Dessert?   Sorry I'm late! Give me two more minutes.   Nice tie. Your shoes don't match though. Kidding.   Honey, two minutes is being late, but an hour is approaching a felony.   Just because Troy's a nice guy, doesn't mean he's immune to boy disease.   Boy disease?   Yeah, forgetting things he shouldn't forget.   Oh, so now you're a boy expert?   My older sister has 10 rules about boy behaviour,   and nine of them involve boys forgetting things   they should never forget, like dinner dates.   Well, it wasn't an official date type of thing.   Rule number three, all dates are official,   whether the boy knows it or not.   - You're not done. - But I'm done for the day, sir.   And actually, I have a date.   Mr Bolton, you're under the mistaken impression   I'm interested in what you have to say. Just follow me.   - But I... - No more speaking.   - Hey, where are we going? - Please, Mr Bolton.   - How long is this gonna take? - Watch your step. Insurance issues.   I'm supposed to have a date tonight.   But the evening is young and so are you.   Well, where are we?   Hold your applause until the very end.   What the heck? Mr Fulton?   A long time ago In a land far away   Lived the pineapple princess, Tiki   She was sweet as a peach In a pineapple way   But so sad that she hardly speaky   Still, if you listen well You'll hear her secret wish   Aloha, everybody, my name is Tiki.   I long to free A truly remarkable fish   My sweet prince   Humu, humu, nuku, nuku, a pua'a   Makahiki malihini who   Humu, humu, nuku, nuku, a pua'a Ooh   Hawana waka, waka, waka Niki pu, pu, pu   Ryan, the fog!   She dreams of a boy Who is under a spell   That has left him all wet and scaly   I sing from my heart Of the power of love   Just a girl with a ukulele   - Come to me - Come to her   - My sweet one, and be still - Be still   I'll grasp your tail Then stroke each tender gill   My sweet prince   Humu, humu, nuku, nuku, a pua'a   Makahiki malihini who   Humu, humu, nuku, nuku, a pua'a Ooh   Hawana waka, waka, waka Niki pu, pu, pu   Now this is where we lead into the whole Kabuki thing.   The clouds turned grey And the big sky cried   And the ocean had a fit   Ryan! Where's my ocean?   Then the wind went whoosh And thunder cracked   And mighty Mount Fufu spit Mighty Mount Fufu spit   Tiki, Tiki Want to speaky, speaky, speaky   With the mighty spirit Fufu   Tiki, Tiki Want to speaky, speaky, speaky   - The words I will not mince - Word!   Please make a man Of my fresh fish prince   This is real fish talk. No lie.   And then the fish turns into a gorgeous prince and sings...   I'm Prince Humu Humu, nuku, nuku, a pua'a   No. No way.   Makahiki malihini who   With me.   Humu, humu, nuku, nuku, a pua'a   Hawana waka, waka, waka Niki pu, pu, pu   Everybody!   Humu, humu, nuku, nuku, a pua'a   Makahiki malihini who   Humu, humu, nuku, nuku, a pua'a   Hawana waka, waka, waka Niki pu, pu, pu   Waka, waka, waka Niki pu, pu, pu   Waka, waka, waka Niki pu, pu, pu   One minute.   We'll talk about this later.   So, you love it?   Look, you ever tried just singing?   I mean, without all the lights and sets and, like, backup people?   Well, it'd be much harder to get applause that way.   I'm not talking about applause.   I'm talking about hanging out with friends.   You know, doing nothing, and singing for fun.   Wait a minute. Not doing anything.   That might work. A dark stage, a single spotlight.   We break out of darkness into the circle of light.   - Wait, "we"? - No set, no frills.   - Oh, man. - Simple.   Dramatic. Just you and me.   That is such a great idea, Troy. We could do it at our club talent show.   Look, I'm here to work.   Sharpay, I already told you being onstage really is your thing,   it's not mine.   It could be our thing.   Time out on that one, okay? I've got an "our thing,"   it's with Gabriella, and... And I'm very late for her, so I got to go.   - But the show could be so amazing... - I love your shoes.   - You like them? - I really do.   I bought them in New York. I have them in nine colours.   Girls! Again from the top.   Hey, lifeguard!   You're crazy, Wildcat!   And so late, but I brought food, a few little candles.   I'm good for a poolside picnic. What do you say?   Zeke even made desserts. But first, I dare you to jump in.   You know we're not supposed to be in the pool. Club rules.   Cramp!   I need a lifeguard! Rescue me! Rescue me!   Here I come!   Thanks for coming in. Follow me.   Oh, listen.   You know, right now, with you,   it's finally starting to feel like summer.   Yeah, it is.   The water bugs are back.   Look, Mr Fulton, this was my idea, she had nothing to do with it.   I generously overlooked your previous break violation,   but then came the golf course jaunt,   and now this. Two strikes.   Don't get a third. Out of the pool.   Sharpay's dad let me play a few holes   and then invited me to dinner with some U of A alumni.   Really?   And they were talking about scholarships,   while Jason and Chad were, like, serving me.   And getting paid for it. It's called a job.   You were invited, nothing wrong with that.   Yeah. I don't know. It felt weird.   I love that you've got the team working together,   but you're not gonna be a Wildcat forever.   The team is now, and that's... It's good,   but everybody's got their own future.   I'm not sure I know what you mean.   Well, when you graduate,   lots of people are gonna be chasing the same opportunities.   There's nothing wrong with keeping your eye on the prize.   In fact, if you don't, you get left behind.   Yeah, I know, I'm just saying, I didn't get my friends jobs at the club   so they could sit and watch me eat in the dining room.   You know, I'm just saying never be ashamed of attention,   as long as you've earned it.   You know, a scholarship's special,   that's why there's only a few to go around.   Yeah, yeah. I get it, Dad.   Okay. So, how was the food at Lava Springs?   Insanely good.   - Take it out for a spin. - No way.   Well, you didn't think I was going to drive this heap, did you?   Yes! Yes!   Okay, bring those knees up as high as you can and circle those arms.   Hey, water bug. Last night was so fun.   I really didn't mean to get you in trouble.   Same here.   - So, maybe today we can have our... - Troy?   What time is your lunch break?   Troy!   - 1:30. - 1:30, great.   Free cheeseburgers are on me. Everybody looks great. Awesome job.   Okay, now, some jumping jacks.   Hey. What is she up to?   - Who knows? - Believe me, she does.   I'm sorry I'm late, Mr Fulton,   but about the pool thing last night, you can't blame Gabriella...   - I'm promoting you. - You're what?   There's an opening as an assistant to the golf pros.   Salaried job, no clocking in.   - But, I... - $500 a week, plus tips.   What? Per week?   Oh, my... That's off the hook! I think it sounds very manageable.   Shall we?   Bolton!   - Wait. So you want me to teach golf? - To kids. Oh, the joy.   - But, sir, I don't think I'm qualified. - Worry not.   Simply show the little angels which end of the club to hold,   tee the ball up, then duck.   In addition, the board is extending membership privileges to you.   You have complete use of club facilities, but do so prudently,   meaning, fellow Wildcats? Not.   Congratulations.   You'll find an appropriate choice of clothing here.   Do not mix checks with plaids, blue with browns,   and avoid wearing white socks at all cost.   Leave your shoes outside the locker,   they will be buffed and polished each evening.   Yes! Oh, man!   Save it for the first tee.   And to get there, this might come in handy.   That's the key to your golf cart. Number 14.   The same number that's on your basketball uniform, so I'm told.   Questions?   How did this happen?   It would seem that the Evans family thinks you have untapped potential.   Young man, the future is full of uncharted waters,   and this family has real clout, so I suggest you take the ride.   Yeah.   Italian.   Awesome, junior golfers! You guys look amazing!   Hey! Hey! Slow down, champ. Slow down.   Save some for the other kids. There you go.   Cool shorts, buddy.   All right. Hey. Hey, cutie. Try holding the club that way,   you're going to hit it way farther.   All right. Nice backswing, man. Nice backswing.   Good job, killer. Make the ball fear you.   You look good. Great job, everybody. Good job, guys!   - Bolton. Bolton. Your 11:30 is here. - Thanks, man.   Good luck, buddy.   Troy!   Oh, man.   - Cool balls. - Thanks.   You're welcome.   By the end of summer, you'll have me playing like a pro.   Yeah.   If I live that long.   I'm so excited about the show.   Oh, and don't worry. We'll find something great to do.   Look, Sharpay, I already told you, singing really isn't my thing.   And here's the best news, all the Redhawk boosters will be there.   - Really? - Of course.   We'll lock up your scholarship with a high "C" right from centre stage.   We're all in this together, right?   Your parents have been really, really nice, Sharpay,   but singing with you isn't a part of my job.   I know, just something you promised to do.   Remember?   You look fabulous in your new clothes, by the way.   - You like the shoes? They're Italian. - Nice.   Let me show you how this is done. It's really easy.   Just line up to your target. Nice, easy backswing.   - Hey, Gab. - Hey!   That girl's got more moves than an octopus in a wrestling match.   - Nah. He knows how to swim. - Yeah. Troy can handle himself.   I did overhear him asking her for her opinion   on his new Italian golf shoes.   He didn't ask me.   So, wake up, sister! She's basically offering him a college education   just to sing with her in the talent show.   - Troy would never do that. - You got eyes, use them.   - Let's go eat. - Yeah, I got to go. Hey, see you later?   - Okay. - Okay.   You're going to take it back and through.   - Troy, Fulton wants you in the lobby. - Fantastic. Thank you. See you.   And she steps on the ball.   - Troy Bolton. This is... - I've seen them all play at U of A.   Oh, all right. Well, come scrimmage at our gym.   It'll be good for your game.   - Play with you guys? - Yeah. Let's get down, bro.   - Awesome. - All right.   - Let's all get some awesome lunch. - Yeah.   I knew it! Coral blue!   It's perfect for your skin tone. And mine, too!   We are majorly skin-tone compatible, Troy.   - I have no idea what that means. - You don't need to. I'm here for you.   - Who's hungry? - Let's eat.   I mean, how can you hit the ball straight if your clubs don't trust you?   - That's the key. So, it's all in the grip. - Okay.   You got to hold it just right. That looks great.   Hey, I almost forgot.   I ordered Swiss on my burger.   So, go ahead and check it out, man. Try it. See what you think.   Danforth, table three needs more iced tea.   Now, rotate your hands over the top.   - Put your thumb on that side. - Okay.   There you go, man. You're good. I'll see you on the course.   - Yeah. Let's do it, man. - Yeah.   - Zeke! Troy wants Swiss. - Coming right up.   You know, you were right.   There's a guy out there that looks just like Troy Bolton,   but I have no idea who he really is.   Oh, hey. Kelsi's got some great new ideas   - to spice up the talent show. It's got... - I'm thrilled.   That new duet that Troy and Gabriella sang? I need it.   - Actually, it's not available. - Repeat.   Well, it's something I wrote for Troy and Gabriella,   just in case they decide to...   You're an employee, not a fairy godmother. Let's have it.   Transpose it into my key. Troy and I will be doing it in the talent show.   Oh, and brighten up the tempo. We'll need to keep people awake.   What about our song?   - What about Humu Humu? - Change in plans.   What am I supposed to do with my Tiki Warrior outfit?   Save it for Halloween, go to a luau, sell it online. I don't know!   But in the meantime, keep an eye on those Wildcats.   If they're planning on being in the show,   which I doubt, once they hear about Troy and me,   I don't want any surprises. Oh, and don't worry,   I'll find a song for you somewhere in the show.   - Or the next show. - Really?   Don't strain yourself, slick.   Entertainers are so temperamental. Transpose!   Look at you.   - Go, team. - Yeah. It's a gift from the guys.   The "guys"? Oh, you mean all those tall people?   Yeah. Yeah. Hey, look. I got to go in a minute,   but I'll be back in about an hour. I'll pick you up in my new truck   and we'll go to a movie. I promise.   "Promise" is a really big word, Troy.   Yeah. I know.   And we've got the staff baseball game after work.   Remember, you "promised" that you'd play?   Right. Right. Baseball. I will absolutely meet you there.   - You forgot, didn't you? - No. I just got the date mixed up.   And I'm sorry I couldn't make lunch today. I just...   It's been wild, you know?   I can't believe how things are working out here.   So I see. Italian golf shoes, new clothes, golf carts.   That's crazy stuff. Hard to keep track of it all, I bet.   So, what's your point?   It just doesn't seem like new stuff, it seems like a new Troy.   All right, let's see if Tiger Woods still has a jump shot.   - Hey, hey, Bolton! Come on! - Hey!   Why don't you tell them to come over here and mix it up?   We'll show them some game.   You know, I don't think that's how they roll.   That's not how they "roll"?   No, no, no, that's not what I meant. I just think it's a closed practice. Sorry.   Wow. Well, maybe you can get us a video?   Bolton, come on!   But yesterday you said we were going to play two-on-two after work,   - before the baseball game. - I know. I know, man. I'm sorry.   Come on, Zeke, that was so yesterday. You know, when we were all on a team!   - Hey, man. - Hey, how's it going?   Hey, Bolton! That's my ball.   - Here we go! - How's it going, guys?   Would you guys be mad at me if I ask him to get me   one of those cool Redhawk jackets?   Hey. Come on.   I'm so excited about the game. It's going to be so cool.   Hey, Ryan. No rehearsals?   My sister is working up something new.   So, you coming to the baseball game?   I'm not staff. Wasn't invited.   Hey, everyone's invited. Come on. Hop in.   All right.   Hold on!   All right! Right here!   Beep, beep!   Beep, beep!   What, did Fulton send you out here to spy on us?   Nah, my sister did.   She thinks you guys are going to upstage her talent show.   Oh, no worries. We were going to do the show,   but then Troy bailed on us, so, whatever.   What do you mean "whatever"? It's our summer, remember?   I thought we decided doing the show would be fun.   - Well, I think so. - Me, too.   - Who are we kidding? - I don't think so.   We don't know how to put together a show.   No, but he does.   If we have a real director putting it together, it could be great.   Have the employees ever won a Star Dazzle Award?   - Hey, now... - I know what you can do, Ryan,   - so why not do it for us? - All right, look,   if you want to play ball, then grab a mitt, but I don't dance.   You don't think dancing takes some game?   - You got game? - A little.   Yes!   Hey, pitcher. Ball.   All right! Let's hustle! Come on! Wildcats!   Get your head in the game!   Hey! Oh! Play ball   Hey, hey!   Hey, batter batter, hey, batter batter Swing   I've got to just do my thing   Hey, batter batter, hey, batter batter Swing   Yeah   I'll show you that it's one and the same Baseball, dancing, same game   It's easy Step up to the plate, start swinging   I want to play ball now and that's all   This is what I do It ain't no dance that you can show me   Hey, hey, hey   - Yeah - You'll never know   - Oh, I know - lf you never try   There's just one little thing that stops me every time   - Yeah - Come on!   - I don't dance - I know you can   - Not a chance - No   - lf I can do this, well, you can do that - But I don't dance   - Hit it out of the park - I don't dance   - I say you can - There's not a chance   - Oh - Slide home, you score   Swinging on the dance floor   I don't dance, no   Hey, batter batter, hey, batter batter Swing   I've got to just do my thing   Hey, batter batter, hey, batter batter Swing   Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah   Two stepping, now you're up to bat Bases loaded, do your dance   It's easy, take your best shot Just hit it   I've got what it takes playing my game   So, you better spin that pitch you're gonna throw me   - Yeah - I'll show you how I swing   - You'll never know - Oh, I know   If you never try   There's just one little thing   - That stops me every time - Yeah, come on   - I don't dance - I know you can   - Not a chance - No, no   If I can do this Well, you can do that   - But I don't dance - Hit it out of the park   - I don't dance - I say you can   There's not a chance Oh no   Slide home, you score Swingin' on the dance floor   I don't dance no   Lean back, tuck it in, take a chance   Swing it out, spin around do the dance   I wanna play ball not dance hall I'm makin' a triple not a curtain call   I can prove it to you till you know it's true   'Cause I can swing it I can bring it to the diamond too   You're talkin' a lot Show me what you got   Stop Swing   Hey Swing it like this   Yeah oh   - Swing - Come on   - Jitterbug - Just like that oh   That's what I mean That's how you swing   You make a good pitch but I don't believe   - I say you can - I know I can't   I don't dance   You can do it   I don't dance, no   Nothin' to it Atta boy, Atta boy, yeah   Hey, batter batter, hey, batter batter What   One, two, three, four Everybody, swing, come on   - I don't dance - I know you can   Not a chance No, no   If I can do this Well, you can do that   But I don't dance   Hit it out of the park   - I don't dance - I say you can   There's not a chance No, no   If I can do this Well, you can do that   But I don't dance   Hit it out of the park   - I don't dance - I know you can   Not a chance No, no   If I can do this Well, you can do that   But I don't dance   Hit it out of the park   - I don't dance - I say you can   - There's not a chance - Oh   Slide home, you score Swinging on the dance floor   I don't dance, no   Safe!   That's it!   It's okay!   Hey, Evans.   I'm not saying I'm going to dance in the show,   but if I did, what would you have me do?   Hey! Get back, get back!   Here we go, here we go! Defence, hold him tight!   Oh, dang!   This kid's good. I like what I'm seeing.   Troy gives 110, 24l7, that you can count on.   Here we go!   - Game. Game. - Good game!   Was I right?   Great.   All right, so you call that a "little" game?   Little League. World Series. Newport, Rhode Island.   Champions.   - Good job! - Nice hat.   - You're so awesome. - Hey.   What can I say?   - Troy, you ready to run it back? - Let's run it, man.   - All right. Let's go, yo. - Let's go.   Let's go, yo, let's go. Let's run it back.   - Looking good. - Wow, Wildcat!   - Too much? - Only in daylight.   - Yeah. - East High colours, very impressive.   - Hey. Be true to your school, right? - Absolutely.   Everyone's excited about doing the show.   Hey, I know everyone thinks that I'm Sharpay's poodle,   - but I really think that I could... - Hey.   If they were thinking that, they're not thinking that today.   How do you do that swing-step you did last night?   That's easy.   Hey.   - Hey. - Hey.   So, I called last night. I got hung up at the gym.   Hey, my dad says you're doing great with those college guys.   Oh. Yeah. They're awesome.   Playing with them is like being in another world.   Well, you missed out on a fun night. It was a great game.   But the dessert afterwards had to be the best part.   Her mom makes the best brownies   - in the entire world. - Yeah, I know. I've had them.   Well, I'll see you guys later.   Hey, LeBron, how'd it go with the Redhawks?   You know, they're very tall.   We got Vince from maintenance to play, so it worked out.   - In case you were wondering. - Maybe we could play later today.   I don't know. Check with Vince.   Well, Mr Evans set up the workout, not me.   Did you even ask to include us, Captain?   I didn't go looking for the Redhawks, the Redhawks came to me. Okay?   I didn't sign up for this golf job, Fulton offered it. I said yes.   My decision. But I show up to work same as you, so chill, man.   You get a speck of dirt on your pants,   - and someone dry cleans you. - And you wouldn't do the same thing...   - lf I was as good as you? - I did not say that.   - You didn't have to! - And neither did you!   You know what? We didn't vote you captain because of your jump shot.   Okay, we did it because you're the guy who usually knows what's up.   - But I guess things change. - You think you got me all figured out?   Well, I don't think so. And I don't answer to you.   Then maybe you should start answering to yourself!   Look, we have been like brothers since pre-school.   If I don't know who you are these days, then who does?   Excuse me. You're all being paid to work, not play Dr Phil. Chop-chop.   Table settings, nice. Oh. No, no.   No. No. No. Now, that? Fabulous.   Troy!   Daddy will make certain the entire scholarship committee is right here.   Perfect view.   I've already spoken to your mother.   They're going to be sitting at a table right next to ours.   It's going to be a fabulous evening.   - Come on. - Great.   Rehearsal, everyone!   - Taylor, I'm signing off on everything. - Fabulous!   - Thank you, Mrs Evans. - Good job.   Look, Sharpay. I know I promised I'd do this, but just take it easy on me.   I'm kind of new to the whole performing thing.   Five, six, seven, eight!   You are the music in   You are the music in Are the music in   You know the words "Once upon a time"   Makes you listen, there's a reason   And when you dream there's a chance you'll find   A little laughter, or happy ever after   You're harmony to the melody   That's echoing inside my head   A single voice   Above the noise   Like a common thread Sing it to me   When I hear my favourite song I know we belong   'Cause you are the music in me   It's living in all of us   It's here Because you are the music in me   You are the music in   You are the music in Are the music in   Harmony to the melody   Echoing inside my head   When I hear my favourite song I know we belong   'Cause you are the music in me   It's living in all of us   It's here Because you are the music in   Me, me, me, me, me   You are the music in   You are the music in me   Yeah, yeah   Oh, yeah   Great job! One second.   Great rehearsal!   Everybody break!   You know, Troy, I've always known you were special.   And it's pretty obvious I'm special, too.   I think we were meant to sing together, don't you?   I need some air.   Don't be long! We're going to run it again!   Show me what you got!   Come on, everybody! Here we go!   You're up! You're up! You're up first!   Here we go! Give it to me!   Come on! Oh, yeah!   You got it! Here we go! Pass it to me!   Come on, let's dance!   You're up! You're up!   Let's show them what we got!   Come on! All right!   Oh, cut that! Get out of here!   - You got it! Hey. - Good job!   - Thank you. - You're welcome.   I said keep an eye on them, not turn them into the cast of Grease!   Pretty cool, huh?   Do you want us to lose the Star Dazzle Award to a bunch of dishwashers?   Us? Well, I guess that's showbiz.   When did you become one of them?   You know, I'll take that as a compliment.   But you and Troy have a good show, sis.   Oh, we plan to.   Give me a beat.   The Midsummer's Night Talent Show means something to me,   - and to my family. - Well...   Those Wildcats will turn it into a farce.   I'm... Your brother is one of "those Wildcats," I'm told.   Oh, don't you mention that traitor to us.   Employee involvement in the show is a tradition here.   Traditions change. My parents have important guests coming.   We'll need every employee working the party, and not on stage.   Pardon moi, but we're not just talking about employees,   we're talking about your classmates. You might want to think this one out.   All right.   Done. Now do it.   - Hi, Taylor. - Hi.   Distribute these in the staff area, but not until the end of shift.   - What? Wait! Mr Fulton... - No discussion, Miss McKessie.   This is a business. Welcome to the world of adults   who wish to keep their jobs because they have mortgages they wish to pay,   tuition bills, car payments, et cetera, et cetera, et cetera.   So, sometimes, we have to perform tasks, however unpleasant,   that are necessary for that all-too-important paycheque   to land in our all-too-empty pockets!   - May I get you a cup of tea, Mr Fulton? - Chamomile would be lovely.   - Go, Martha! Go, Martha! - Go, Martha! Go, Martha!   May I have your attention, please?   You guys, I need to make an announcement.   All junior staffers will be required to work on show night.   - What? - Yeah, it says,   "No staff participation in the show will be allowed. No exceptions."   - No show? - There's a show. We're just not in it.   That's great.   I'm sorry, you guys. There's nothing we can do about it. It's Fulton's orders.   There's no way this is Fulton's idea.   Unless Fulton suddenly has blonde hair and wears designer flip-flops.   Excuse me.   - Totally! - Sharpay!   Forget about the rest of us, how about the fact   that your brother has worked extremely hard on this show?   Oh, boo-hoo. He'll be in the show. He'll do his celebrity impersonations.   And don't lecture me about Ryan,   given the way you've been interfering with Troy's future.   What?   You've gotten him written up by Fulton for sneaking on the golf course,   swimming after hours. I had to step in just to save Troy's job.   I'm not interested in what you think you're doing for Troy.   That's between you and him. But you're messing with my friends,   my summer, and that's not okay with me.   You don't like the fact that I won.   What's the prize? Troy? The Star Dazzle Award?   You have to go through all of this just to get either one?   No, thanks, Sharpay.   You're very good at a game that I don't want to play,   so I'm done here.   But you better step away from the mirror   long enough to check the damage that will always be right behind you.   Girls!   Hey. What do you mean you're done here?   I mean, you can't quit.   Us working together sounded good, but plans change and people change.   The club talent show is a big deal for Sharpay,   and evidently for your future, so it's cool.   Just make it happen.   - Wear your new Italian shoes. - Hey, I'm still me.   Blowing off your friends, missing dates?   - Lf that's you, it's good to know. - No, no, no, no, no.   I was only doing that because I'm working on the scholarship thing.   You know that.   But if along the way you act like someone you're not,   pretty soon that's who you become.   I meant what I said about movies and summer and just being together.   I'm sure you did, at the time.   But I also meant what I said, that I want to remember this summer.   But not like this, Troy.   I gotta say what's on my mind   Something about us doesn't seem right these days   Life keeps getting in the way   Whenever we try   Somehow the plan is always rearranged   It's so hard to say But I gotta do what's best for me   You'll be okay   I've got to move on and be who I am   I just don't belong here I hope you understand   We might find a place in this world someday   But at least for now I gotta go my own way   Don't wanna leave it all behind   But I get my hopes up   And I watch them fall every time   Another colour turns to grey   And it's just too hard to watch it all Slowly fade away   I'm leaving today 'Cause I gotta do what's best for me   You'll be okay   I've got to move on and be who I am   I just don't belong here I hope you understand   We might find our place in this world someday   But at least for now I gotta go my own way   What about us?   What about everything we've been through?   What about trust?   You know I never wanted to hurt you   What about me?   What am I supposed to do?   - I gotta leave, but I'll miss you - I'll miss you   Oh, so   I've got to move on and be who I am   Why do you have to go?   I just don't belong here I hope you understand   I'm trying to understand   We might find a place in this world someday   - But at least for now - I want you to stay   I gotta go my own way   I've got to move on and be who I am   What about us?   I just don't belong here I hope you understand   I'm trying to understand   We might find our place in this world someday   But at least for now I gotta go my own way   I gotta go my own way   I gotta go my own way   You're usually taking these right off the grill.   Maybe I've been eating too much at the club.   You've barely been out of this room the last three or four days.   - Let's call the guys, get a game going. - They wouldn't come even if I called.   I find that hard to believe.   Dad, do I seem different to you this summer?   You dress a lot better, that's for sure.   Oh, man, I'm serious. Maybe my friends are right,   maybe I'm turning into a jerk with new shoes.   New shoes, not a new kid. Where's this coming from?   I've been so focused on my future.   I mean, Gabriella quit. Chad won't talk to me.   I don't see the Wildcats running around here.   Is this about going after what you want?   Yeah, Dad. The scholarship's important. I get it.   Hey, hey.   Look, it's only a big deal if it makes sense to you.   I don't even know who I am any more.   You know what?   I've known this kid for a long, long time.   And I got a lot of faith in him. He looks a lot like you.   I'm absolutely sure he's going to figure out the right thing to do.   It's so good. I cannot wait.   Yeah, I'm eating so much breakfast,   I won't be able to eat my dinner at night.   Oh, yeah. It's okay, Ryan's gonna help.   - I don't know. - We'll get it eventually.   Excuse me.   Everybody's always talking at me   Everybody's trying to get in my head   I wanna listen to my own heart talking   I need to count on myself instead   - Did you ever - Lose yourself to get what you want?   - Did you ever - Get on a ride then wanna get off?   Did you ever   Push away the ones you should've held close?   Did you ever let go? Did you ever not know?   I'm not gonna stop, that's who I am   I'll give it all I got, that is my plan   Will I find what I lost? You know you can   Bet on it, bet on it, bet on it, bet on it   Bet on me   I wanna make it right, that is the way   To turn my life around Today is the day   Am I the type of guy who means what I say?   Bet on it, bet on it, bet on it, bet on it   How will I know if there's a path worth taking?   Should I question every move I make?   With all I've lost, my heart is breaking   I don't want to make the same mistakes   Did you ever   Doubt your dream will ever come true?   Did you ever   Blame the world but never blame you?   - I will never - Try to live a lie again   I don't wanna win this game if I can't play it my way   I'm not gonna stop, that's who I am   I'll give it all I got, that is my plan   Will I find what I lost? You know you can   Bet on it, bet on it, bet on it, bet on it   I wanna make it right, that is the way   To turn my life around Today is the day   Am I the type of guy who means what I say?   Bet on it, bet on it, bet on it, bet on it   Oh, hold up   Gimme room to think Bring it on down   Gotta work on my swing Gotta do my own thing   Hold up   It's no good at all to see yourself   And not recognise your face   Out on my own It's such a scary place   The answers are all inside of me   All I got to do is believe   I'm not gonna stop, not gonna stop till I get my shot   That's who I am, that is my plan We'll end up on top   You can bet on it, bet on it bet on it, bet on   You can bet on it, bet on it, bet on it Bet on me   I wanna make it right, that is the way   To turn my life around Today is the day   Am I the type of guy who means what I say?   Bet on it, bet on it, bet on it You can bet on me   This way.   What do you mean you're not doing the show?   - Exactly that. - We're singing a duet, Troy!   A duet means two people.   Well, mostly me in this case, but whatever! Duet!   I'm an employee. Employees aren't allowed in the show.   No, no, no, no. No, no. You're an honorary member.   Not any more.   - I asked Fulton for my kitchen job back. - What?   Sharpay, I don't like the way you've been treating my friends.   And I don't like the way I've been treating them either,   so I'm doing something about it.   An entire table of University boosters are coming to see you, thanks to me.   So, I'll be their waiter. They'll be thrilled.   Troy, Troy. This could change your life!   I'm more interested in about what my friends think of me,   and what I think of myself.   Oh, we could all hold hands around the campfire some other time!   Right now we've got a show to do.   No. You've got a show to do. I got a kitchen to clean.   It's okay.   Kelsi, find Ryan.   Welcome this evening. You'll be seated at table 21.   Kelly, will you escort them, please? Excellent.   Ladies, you look gorgeous   - this evening. Beautiful. - And now, returning with   a abridged version of last year's tap-dancing epic,   Tina and her Tippety-Tappity Toes!   There you are! Thank goodness you've come to your senses.   Plug in the volcano. Humu Humu is back on.   Enjoy your pineapple on your own, sis. I'm not doing the show.   What? Oh, put some fresh batteries in your Tiki Warrior costume   - and let's get going! - Took your advice. Sold it online.   You've always wanted the spotlight. Now you've got it. Break a leg.   The curtain's up. Showtime!   Kelsi told us what went down between you and Sharpay.   I'm more interested in what went down between me and you, man.   - I was a jerk. - Yeah.   But, hey, brothers fight.   And they're still brothers.   All right!   Guys, I messed up your show and I'm sorry.   Yeah, because show business is our entire lives, right?   Hey, I hope you haven't permanently filled my spot in the two-on-two game.   And, Ryan, I know how hard you must've worked on this show.   Making these Wildcats look good couldn't have been easy.   - Hey. - So, I apologise.   Hey, the truth is, we've all had a lot of fun.   At least, I have.   Hey, you gotta see this dude play baseball.   I'm looking forward to it.   - All right! - Yeah!   Troy, listen, all these people out there,   I don't really want to see my sister crash and burn.   At least, I think I don't. I think you should sing with her.   My life is over. I've been a good girl.   I've never lied, except when necessary.   I always bought my parents expensive gifts,   using their credit card, of course. But I don't deserve this humiliation!   You need to get out there. Mrs Hoffenfeffer and her sock puppet   are stinking up the premises.   Well, the only thing that would make it any lovelier would be   that if I won that Star Dazzle Award! Sharpay, I'm going to find you.   That award, I tell you, it's mine! Mine! Mine!   Mirror, mirror on the wall. Who's the... Oh, forget it.   How's your show going?   How's it going?   My show makes the captain of the Titanic   look like he won the lottery.   - I'll sing with you, Sharpay. - What?   I promised. And I keep my promises.   But what was the first thing you said to me when I started working here?   - Bring me more iced tea? - Think harder. We're...   - All in this together. - Exactly.   Well, we are.   So, let's get out there and knock them dead, Troy Bolton!   I do the show if the Wildcats do the show.   And I'd think fast.   I just sort of wish you were doing this for me.   You're a good guy, Troy.   And actually, right now, I think I like you better than I like myself.   Did I just say that?   Girls! Places!   - Okay. Everyone. Ryan, the show's on. - Where's the music? Where's Troy?   Talked to Sharpay, everything's cool.   Hey, speaking of my sister, she wants you to learn a new song.   Everyday. I can't learn a new song!   - Kelsi will help you with it. - What?   - It's showtime! - Yeah!   - What team? - Wildcats!   - What team? - Wildcats!   - What team? - Wildcats!   Once in a lifetime   And now it's time for our five-time   Star Dazzle Award winner, Miss Sharpay Evans,   singing this year with our assistant golf pro, Mr Troy Bolton.   Where is Troy?   - Hey. Why did you switch songs? - Switch songs? What?   - Yeah, Ryan said... - Bolton!   - But I didn't learn a new song. - Exactly.   Girls!   Once in a lifetime   Means there's no second chance   So I believe that you and me   Should grab it while we can   Make it last forever   And never give it back   It's our turn and I'm loving where we're at   Because this moment's really all we have   Every day of our lives   Wanna find you there Wanna hold on tight   Gonna run   While we're young And keep the faith   Every day   From right now   Gonna use our voices and scream out loud   Take my hand   Together we will celebrate   Celebrate   Oh, every day   They say that you should follow   And chase down what you dream   But if you get lost and lose yourself   What does it really mean?   No matter where we're going   Oh, yeah, it starts from where we are   There's more to life   When we listen to our hearts   And because of you I've got the strength to start   Yeah, yeah, yeah   Every day of our lives   Wanna find you there Wanna hold on tight   Gonna run   While we're young And keep the faith   Oh, every day   From right now   Gonna use our voices and scream out loud   Take my hand   Together we will celebrate   Oh, every day   We're taking it back We're doing it here together   It's better like that And stronger now than ever   We're not gonna lose   'Cause we get to choose That's how it's gonna be   Every day of our lives   Wanna find you there Wanna hold on tight   Gonna run   While we're young And keep the faith   Keep the faith   Every day of our lives   Wanna find you there Wanna hold on tight   Gonna run   While we're young And keep the faith   Oh, yeah   - Every day - Every day   From right now   Gonna use our voices and scream out loud   - Take my hand - Take my hand   Together we will celebrate   - Every day - Oh, every day   Oh, oh, every day   Oh, every day   Every day   - Oh, yeah, yeah - I'm singing every day   Every day   Every day   Every day   Every day   Every day   Every day   Yeah   Just fabulous! Fabulous!   Well. If you'll all please take your seats.   I have one last task to perform this evening.   The Star Dazzle for this year goes to, of course, our one and only...   My brother, Ryan Evans!   That's our boy!   Fix the hat.   Yeah   You are the music in me   You know the words "Once upon a time"   Make you listen   there's a reason   When you dream There's a chance you'll find   A little laughter, or happy ever after   You're harmony to the melody   That's echoing inside my head   A single voice above the noise   - Here's to the future. - No. Here's to right now.   And like a common thread   You're pulling me   When I hear my favourite song I know that we belong   Oh, you are the music in me   Yeah, it's living in all of us   And it's brought us here because   - Because you are the music in me - Because you are the music in me   Yeah, yeah, yeah   You are the music in me   When I hear my favourite song I know that we belong   You are the music in me   It's living in all of us   And it's brought us here because   You are the music in me   You are the music in me   One, two, three, four   The summer that we wanted   Yeah, we've finally got it   Now's the time we get to share   Each day we'll be together   Now until forever   So everybody everywhere   Let's take it to the beach Take it there together   Let's celebrate today 'Cause there'll never be another   We're stronger this time We've been there for each other   Everything's just right   Everybody, all for one   Our real summer has just begun   Let's rock and roll, and just let go   Feel the rhythm of the drums   We're gonna have fun in the sun   Now that all the hard work Work is done   Everybody one for all And all for one   - All for one - All for one, one   Summertime together   Now we're even closer   That's the way it's meant to be   Oh, we're just getting started   Come and join the party   You deserve it same as me   Let's take it to the beach Take it there together   Let's celebrate today 'Cause there'll never be another   We're stronger this time We've been there for each other   Everything's just right   Everybody, all for one   Our real summer has just begun   Let's rock and roll, and just let go   Feel the rhythm of the drums   We're gonna have fun in the sun   Now that all the hard work Work is done   Everybody one for all And all for one   Everybody up   Everybody rock it   Take it from the top   And never ever stop it   It's not about the future   It's not about the past   It's making every single day Last and last and last   Fun and sun What could be better?   Let's have fun Everyone together now   Everybody, everybody now   This is where our summer really begins   The very last time it's ever gonna be like this   It's a party you don't wanna miss   Guys, show them we can make some moves, hey   Girls, show them we know how to groove, oh   - Here - And now   - Let's turn the party - Out   Everybody jump in   Everybody, all for one   Our real summer has just begun   Let's rock and roll, and just let go   Feel the rhythm of the drums   We're gonna have fun in the sun   Now that all the hard work Work is done   Everybody one for all   Everybody, all for one   Let's rock and roll, and just let go   Feel the rhythm of the drums   We're gonna have fun in the sun   Now that all the hard work Work is done   Come on, everyone, let's dance   We can't let the moment pass   Let's make the party last   All for one   All for one   Yeah!   Coral blue! It's totally like your skin tone.   And mine, too! We are majorly skin-tone compatible, Troy.   My daughter.   Then maybe you should start answering to yourself!   By the end of summer, you'll have me playing like a pro.   If we live that long.   For you.   Cut!   Troy!   - Put it in forward. - It is!

Special thanks to

SergeiK

.

[ererigarbage]

You must remember, young thespians, learning is never seasonal.   So, do allow the shimmering lights of summer to refresh and illuminate   - your fertile young minds. - What's she talking about?   The future greets you with its magic mirror,   reflecting each golden moment, each emboldened choice.   Dude, Miss Darbus has snapped her cap.   Dude, you're actually listening?   Yes, Jason.   So, what was your favourite summer memory, Miss Darbus?   Summers have passed fleetingly since I was your age,   but I remember each with poignant clarity.   Summer. Summer.   Summer.   Summer.   - Summer. - Summer.   - Summer. - Summer.   - Summer. Summer. - Ashland Shakespeare Festival of...   - Summer. Summer. Summer. ...'88 leaps fondly to mind.   What time is it? Summertime   Hey It's our vacation   What time is it? Party time   That's right Say it loud   What time is it? The time of our lives   Anticipation   What time is it? Summertime   School's out Scream and shout   Finally summer's here   Good to be chilling out   I'm off the clock The pressure's off   Now my girl's what it's all about   Ready for some sunshine   - For my heart to take a chance - Oh, yeah   I'm here to stay, not moving away   Ready for a summer romance   Everybody's ready, going crazy Yeah, we're out   Come on and let me hear you say it now, right now   What time is it? Summertime   Hey It's our vacation   What time is it? Party time   That's right Say it loud   What time is it? The time of our lives   Anticipation   What time is it? Summertime   School's out Scream and shout   Goodbye to rules No summer school   I'm free to shop till I drop   It's an education vacation   And the party never has to stop   We've got things to do We'll see you soon   And we're really gonna miss you all   Goodbye to you and you   And you and you   Bye-bye until next fall   Everybody ready, going crazy yeah, we're out   Come on and let me hear you say it now, right now   What time is it? Summertime   Hey It's our vacation   What time is it? Party time   That's right Say it loud   What time is it? The time of our lives   Anticipation   What time is it? Summertime   School's out Scream and shout   No more waking up at 6:00 a.m.   'Cause now our time is all our own   Enough already, we're waiting Come on, let's go   Go out of control   All right   Everybody   Yeah   Come on   School pride, let's show it We're champions and we know it   Wildcats, yeah, are the best, yeah   Red, white and gold   When it's time to win, we do it   We're number one, we proved it   Let's live it up, yeah, party down   That's what this summer's all about   What time is it?   Summertime is finally here Yeah   Let's celebrate   We wanna hear you loud and clear now   School's out   We can sleep as late as we want to   It's our time   Now we can do whatever we wanna do   What time is it?   It's summertime   We'll be loving it   Come on and say it again now   What time is it?   It's party time Party time   Let's go and have the time of our lives   Let's go   Yeah   No, but seriously, guys, this summer I gotta make bank.   My parents keep talking about how much college is gonna cost.   Yeah, my folks are gonna match whatever I make,   but I gotta get hired first.   Me, too. I'm saving up for a car,   so I can take that little hottie on a proper date.   Gabriella.   I understand you've moved every summer for the past five years,   and I'd hate to think today is goodbye.   No worries. My mom promised I'm here until graduation next year.   Bless Mom's little heart.   Sharpay, we got off to a rough start, but you really came through.   I mean, you helped me with the winter musical.   I did?   Those vocal exercises?   See you.   Gabriella and I have had, like, five job interviews,   but we keep getting beat out by college kids.   Yeah, same here. I guess I'm back in the babysitting business.   Hey, Martha. Hey, Taylor.   Hey, Kelsi, what are you planning to do this summer?   Grow, write music. Grow.   Your summer activities consultant has arrived.   Hopefully some of those activities will include a job.   Hey, whatever happens, as long as we're together, it's cool, right?   You promise?   Here's my promise.   - "T" as in Troy? - Well, I... Yeah.   Hey, man, how's it going? There you go, boss.   Hoops. Let's go.   Yeah, sure, sure. We're not busy or anything. Let's go.   We could go to the movies, download music.   Oh, I'm definitely teaching you a twisted-flip on the skateboard.   Oh, and I have first-aid training, so I can patch myself up afterwards.   All right!   "Going to movies, listening to music.   "And, golly, Troy, I have first-aid training."   Oh, please.   Oh. Come here, Kelsi. I have a summer job for you.   At our country club.   Our rehearsal pianist is evidently moving.   Or hiding.   - Pardon? - Sounds great.   Cheer up, Shar, it's summer.   We can do whatever we want to. Everything changes.   Ryan, who's the absolute primo boy at East High?   I'd say Troy Bolton has that category pretty much locked up, don't you think?   And East High's primo girl?   - Just answer the question! - Gosh, you?   Troy, Sharpay. Sharpay, Troy. Sharpay...   Shar.   - It just makes sense. - Evidently not to Troy.   But it's summer, Ry. Everything changes.   What time is it? Summertime   Hey It's our vacation   What time is it? Party time   That's right Say it loud   What time is it? The time of our lives   Anticipation   What time is it? Summertime   School's out Scream and shout   Nice workout, fellas.   - I'm starving. - Me, too.   I'll tell you what. I'm seeing moves I didn't see last season.   - Keep it coming, guys! - Yeah. What team?   Wildcats!   All right!   Yo, time for milk.   - So, guys, how's the job hunt coming? - The big zero.   - Girlfriend alert. - Talk to me.   This is Thomas Fulton, General Manager   of Lava Springs Country Club here in Albuquerque.   I understand you've been looking for summer work.   Hey, Troy, does Gabriella still remember your name,   or did she find somebody new to karaoke with this summer?   That sounds fantastic, Mr Fulton. But how did you get my name?   Well, we've always had a student summer work programme   here at Lava Springs. So, are you ready?   Here's the thing. I know the most amazing girl... I mean, student.   Straight A's, quintuple straight A's,   and it would be so amazingly perfect if...   Man, he's really working someone.   It can't be Gabriella. Whenever she calls, he just blushes.   Yeah, I never said that.   Yes!   - What's up, dog? - Nothing. Nothing. Nothing!   Okay. I'll tell you what, you guys stick together this summer,   you work on the game, and we are talking back-to-back   - championships next fall. - Yeah!   Can we all redirect this energy by carrying in the groceries?   - Yes, Mrs Bolton. - Yes, Mrs Bolton.   Hey, we're kicking off another hot summer here in Albuquerque.   So, for those cool enough to have a convertible,   crank up the sound, breathe that fresh air,   and say hello to summer!   Miss Evans, Mr Evans, looking very sharp this summer.   Welcome back to Lava Springs.   Thank you, Charles.   Hi, boy!   Oh, can you find some shade for my car?   - Even if we have to plant a tree. - Fulton.   And may I say, welcome back.   It's good to be home.   Are the flyers ready?   This year we embossed the flyers for the show.   Inspired.   I plan to limit member talent auditions to 30 seconds each.   Amateur performers are very...   - Draining? - Yes.   Understood.   And should I...   We be so fortunate as to win the Star Dazzle Award again.   But where would we put it?   We're planning on expanding the trophy case.   The designs are in my office.   - Fulton, you are so efficient. - Well...   The staffing matter we discussed?   Done. With discretion.   Fabulous.   - Oh, stop it. Yes. Yes. - Ryan!   - Sharpay! - Girls.   Your chaise in its usual spot, Miss Evans?   Thank you, Javier.   Emma, Jackie and Lea, east of me.   Oh, and you'll be a prince to angle our chaises on the hour, as the sun moves.   Well, thanks to the kind words from your mother last season,   I've been promoted.   But, no worries, I'll make sure that the new lifeguard   is fully briefed on just how you like things.   So, what's the theme of the summer talent show, Sharpay?   - Redemption. - Love it.   It was a very trying year, ladies.   My drama department was invaded by outsiders,   singers coming from the chemistry lab and locker room. Shocking, really.   Sis, we've got the pool, the entire club, and the whole summer to enjoy it.   And the spa has been redone.   There's a guacamole facial and a seaweed body scrub on the menu.   What could be more fabulous?   - More ice. - Right away, Miss Evans.   It's out with the old And in with the new   Goodbye, clouds of grey Hello, skies of blue   A dip in the pool A trip to the spa   Endless days in my chaise The whole world according to moi   Excuse me.   Thank you.   Iced tea imported from England   Lifeguards imported from Spain   Towels imported from Turkey   And turkey imported from Maine   We're gonna relax and renew   You go do   I want fabulous That is my simple request   All things fabulous Bigger and better and best   I need something inspiring to help me get along   I need a little fabulous Is that so wrong?   Fetch me my Jimmy Choo flip-flops   Where is my pink Prada tote?   I need my Tiffany hair-band   Then I can go for a float   A summer like never before   I want more   She wants fabulous That is her simple request   All things fabulous Bigger and better and best   She needs something inspiring to help her get along   She needs a little fabulous Is that so wrong?   Fabulous pool   Fabulous splash   Read my lips.   Fabulous parties Even fabulous trash   Fabulous fashion   No.   Fabulous bling   Yeah.   She's got to have fabulous everything   Nothing to discuss   Everything's got to be perfect for...   Me!   She wants fabulous That is her simple request   All things fabulous Bigger and better and best   She needs something inspiring to help her get along   She needs a little fabulous Is that so wrong?   This won't do That's a bore   That's insulting I need more   I need, I need, I need I need, I need, I need   I need fabulous   I want fabulous   Fabulous hair, fabulous style   Fabulous eyes and that fabulous smile   Oh, I like what I see I like it a lot   Is this absolutely fabulous?   Fabulous, fabulous, fabulous   Absolutely.   Not.   Yeah!   I got you. I got you. It's okay.   - What are you doing here? - I'm the new lifeguard.   Wait, are you a member here?   I told you to hire Troy Bolton, not the entire East High student body!   You told me to hire Troy Bolton. "Whatever it takes."   Well, why didn't you warn me about the rest of them?   I did discuss the matter with the Lava Springs board, of course.   The board. You mean, our...   Mother!   Gabriella Montez and the Wildcats? Mother, how could you?   Think of your future, kitten.   These are your school chums, not the fuddy-duddy Lava Springs staff.   These are not my chums!   They'll steal my talent show.   And what fresh talent you'll have for your summer show.   Mother, did you hear what I just said?   Ryan, talk to Mother.   - Hi, Mom. - Ducky! How's my dashing boy?   Tell pumpkin if she worries too much, she'll get frown lines.   Namaste.   - I want them out! - But your mother specifically said...   Oh, don't mention that backstabbing yogini to me!   If you can't fire them, make them wanna quit.   I'm hoping Chef Michael's gonna teach me   the art of Austrian flake pastry.   And Sharpay's gonna be where I work every day.   How much better can summer get? Right? Right?   - A real dream come true. - Lf you actually get to know her,   - I mean she's... - Dude.   Hey, I didn't even know Sharpay's parents owned this place.   Mr Fulton just said, you know,   there's Wildcat fans at Lava Springs, and jobs are available.   So, I said let's go for it.   Inspiring, Mr Bolton. Truly inspiring.   However, what we're looking for from all of you,   is not inspiration, but perspiration.   Confirming assignments. Bolton, Danforth, waiters.   And, when needed, caddies.   What?   Miss McKessie, I'm told that you're efficient.   - Well... - Prove it.   You'll handle member activities. Keep me in sight at all times.   Kelsi, piano. Lunchtime and cocktail hour.   That means mood music, not new music.   Capisce?   Martha, chopping, cutting, preparing plates.   Do complete the summer with the equal amount of digits   I assume you currently possess.   Oh, Zeke, you will assist Chef Michael in the...   The promised land.   You hold on to that.   Mr Fulton, Your Excellency, sir,   would it be okay if we draw straws to see who has to wait on Sharpay?   Please, none of you will be waiting on Sharpay.   Oh, yes. Snap.   - You will be serving Miss Evans. - Who's that?   Always address our members as Mr, Mrs, or Miss. Let's practise.   - Do we have to? - Shall we?   "Miss Evans, would you care for lemonade?"   Actually, I'm not Miss Evans. I'm Jason.   - It smells so good and I am so hungry. - No, wait. You don't...   - No, no, no. - What's for lunch?   Miss Montez.   It would seem your lunch break does not start for 3.5 minutes.   I do hope no members drowned in your absence.   Henceforth, do clock in and out on time.   Three infractions of any kind, and your employment is terminated.   Capisce?   Chop, chop, chop.   - Okay, that man officially scares me. - Yeah.   Suddenly, I'm beginning to miss detention with Miss Darbus.   - How sick is that? - Come on.   We got a hoop out back, two free meals a day,   and we only have to wear these stupid outfits on duty.   All for one, and one for all. All right?   - This is our summer. Now, what team? - Wildcats!   - What team? - Wildcats!   Come on.   How did we get from the top of the world to the bottom of the heap?   I don't recall you mentioning the boss is such a creep   We still have the ingredients to make this summer sweet   Well, we got rags instead of riches   And all these dirty dishes   Just wish I had three wishes   Okay, guys, break it up.   We've got to work, work to work this out   We'll make things right The sun will shine   If we work, work, there'll be no doubt   We can still save the summer if we work this out   Dude, what have you gotten us into?   Come on. We can totally turn this thing around!   I'd rather face a seven footer straight up in the post   Yeah That sure beats hanging here   And burning someone's toast   I needed Benjamins But this ain't worth the stress   Maybe there's a better way to fix this greasy mess   We're a champion team A well-oiled machine   And we've faced tougher problems than this   I know it's a grind But I'm sure we can find   A way to have fun while we get this job done   We've got to work, work to work this out   We'll make things right The sun will shine   We got to work, work There'll be no doubt   If we all come together We can work this out   Let's work it!   Tell me what you want   Tell me what you need   A little bit of sugar   A little bit of butter   It's the perfect recipe   Payday It'll taste so sweet   Payday Good enough to eat   Gonna make some motion pictures   Hit the mall with all my sisters   Get tickets to the Knicks and Sixers   Kick it with the music mixers   Buy a ride that suits my style   Lounge around the pool awhile   Make a date with my favourite girl   We've got it made   Whoa, we've got to work, work to work this out   We'll make things right The sun will shine   If we work, work, there'll be no doubt   We can still save the summer If we work this out   Work this Got to work this   We can work this out   So, can we work this out?   Yeah, we can work it out.   Send the waiters right in.   Miss me? Of course you did.   Hey, you ever been on a golf course?   We're employees, Troy. Not members. And I don't play golf.   Who said anything about golf?   Are you sure it's okay for us to be out here?   Yeah, unless the jackrabbits turn us in.   So, how's kitchen duty?   Oh, you know, the team that washes dishes together, wins together.   My mom said summer jobs look good on college applications.   All part of the frightening concept called "our future."   Are you worried?   Hey, college costs a fortune.   My parents are saving pennies, unlike the people at this place.   You're a cinch for a scholarship.   I'm only as good as whatever happens next season. It's...   I always liked the idea of being in charge of my future,   until it actually started happening.   So, let's just think about right now,   because I've never been in one place for an entire summer,   and this means a lot to me, especially being here with...   Such an outstanding peanut-butter and-jelly-sandwich maker like me?   I want to remember this summer, Troy.   - Here, catch. - Oh, I love this game.   - Ready? - Go.   - Beautiful. - Very nice! Oh. Your turn.   - You didn't catch a single one of them. - You...   That was so bad.   Fulton, when I was on the fourth fairway today,   it seemed bone dry.   Oh, no way!   Could you tell maintenance to give it a little extra splash?   No way!   - May I have this dance? - Why, of course you may.   Let's go then.   You are gonna get so wet!   Yeah!   Keep an eye on them tomorrow and keep me posted.   Why are you smiling?   No worries, Ryan. This is our turf, remember?   First a break-time infraction, now frolicking on the golf course.   We are not off to an auspicious start, are we, Miss Montez?   Actually, Mr Fulton, this was my idea, so she's...   How gallant, but irrelevant.   We won't allow this to happen again, will we?   Good morning, everybody.   - Good morning. - Good morning.   - Smells good. That smells good. - Hey, Martha.   - Hey. - Hey, Jason.   - Hey, morning. - What's up?   Yeah You are the music in me   - Sounding good, Kels. - Thanks.   Actually, I need to go get ready for the ladies' luncheon.   Won't exactly be rocking out.   You know, I am so excited about the club's talent show.   I mean, the employees get to do a number,   and I have ideas for everyone.   You guys can sing the lead,   and maybe Zeke and Chad can do backup,   and everyone can dance.   Big timeout on that one.   My singing career began and ended with the East High Winter Musical.   I'm just here to make a cheque and sneak in the pool after work.   That's... That's really it.   What was that you were playing a minute ago?   Oh, it's... It's nothing. It's just nothing.   What's this?   Well, I was thinking if you'd do the show,   that I wanted to be ready, and I wrote this for you guys.   Come on. Go.   Yeah   You are the music in me   You know the words "Once upon a time"   Make you listen, there's a reason   When you dream There's a chance you'll find   A little laughter, or happy ever after   You're harmony to the melody   That's echoing inside my head   A single voice above the noise   And like a common thread   You're pulling me   When I hear my favourite song I know that we belong   Oh, you are the music in me   Yeah, it's living in all of us   And it's brought us here because   Because you are the music in me   Yeah, yeah, yeah   You are the music in me   It's like I knew you before we met Can't explain it   There's no name for it   I sang you words I've never said   - And it was easy - So easy   Because you see the real me   As I am, you understand   And that's more than I've ever known, oh   To hear your voice above the noise   And know I'm not alone   Oh, you're singing to me   When I hear my favourite song I know that we belong   You are the music in me   It's living in all of us   And it's brought us here because   You are the music in me   Together we're gonna sing   We got the power to sing what we feel   Connected and real   Can't keep it all inside   Oh, yeah   Oh, yeah   - Oh, yeah - Yeah, yeah, yeah   You are the music in me   Oh, yeah   Oh, yeah   You are the music in me   When I hear my favourite song I know that we belong   We belong   You are the music in me   It's living in all of us It's brought us here because   You are the music in me   Oh yeah Oh yeah   You are the music in me   Yeah   - Oh, I love that song. - Great job, Kels.   Oh, I've got the talent show sign-up sheet right here. Are you in?   Maybe we can work this out, but only if we're all in this together.   Yeah!   This is going to be fantastic.   I'm going to coordinate rehearsal to coincide with all of our schedules.   Goldenthroat, this is Jazz Square. We may have trouble.   Now, it's an amazing song, but Kelsi didn't write it for us.   Hi, Mom.   - Seaweed scrub, darling? - Maybe later.   Ryan, it might be wonderful if Troy participates in our talent show.   What? If he sings with Gabriella   then our whole show is going to be the "Troy and Gabriella Show."   I'm not certain Gabriella is ideally suited   to help Troy realise his full potential at Lava Springs.   Mommy, what time is Daddy gonna be here?   We tee off at noon. Join us?   Love to.   Up. And how shall we get to the food today, sir?   - I don't know, perhaps skipping. - Very well then.   Shall we?   Hipty scouty, hipty skipty, hipty skipty, hipty skipty...   Danforth, Bolton, you're caddying today.   $40 a bag. You've been requested.   - What? - By who?   Dude, who cares? For $40, I'd caddy for Godzilla.   Close, very close.   Thank you.   - Thanks. - Thanks, man.   Hey, boys! So, Troy, I thought it was time for you to meet my parents.   Enchantée.   - Awesome. - Hi.   Hello.   So, where's your dad?   Hi, Daddy!   Where's the first tee and what's the course record?   I'm just kidding. I built the course myself and I hold the record,   but who's counting? Princess.   - Son, you've been working out. - Yoga.   Bring that around, there you go. Quite a season you boys had.   Oh, Troy played for the golf team, too, Daddy.   Oh, versatile. How about you, son?   - Baseball. Track and field. - Outstanding.   Might come in handy the way I play golf. Fair warning.   Fore!   - Brilliant, darling. Brilliant. - Lovely.   Chad, you'll be caddying for Mother. Troy, Daddy.   Daddy.   Bravo!   Brilliant. Let's take a walk.   - Is that a new outfit? - Yes, just this morning. And yours?   This old thing? I got it last week.   Come on, Chad.   What do you think?   Well, it's 190 to the pin, downhill lie, elevated green.   I'd go with a full five, sir.   Hi.   - Nice call. - All right.   Princess, grab your pitching wedge. This one's yours.   Thanks, Daddy.   Line it up.   That's my girl.   That girl needs to take up knitting.   Or some sport where she can only injure herself.   - I'm in the sand. - Me, too.   Knees, hips, shoulders, hat. Good. Drill it.   Backboard.   Yes!   That's my boy.   - Where... - I have no idea.   Gabriella! Dinner tonight? Sneak a swim?   Troy!   - Oh, lovely, darling. - Nice.   Daddy, why not let Troy try a shot?   - Of course. Of course. - No, I shouldn't.   - Come on. - Are you sure?   - Yeah! - Yes, sir.   - Are you sure it's okay, Mr Evans? - It sure is.   - Give it a ride. - Thank you.   - Here you go, Daddy. - Thank you, dear.   - That's a beautiful swing. - Really beautiful.   That is a beautiful swing.   - That was awesome. - Thanks, man.   - Come on! What do you say we... - What? I don't know.   Off we go.   I'm saving up for a car. I'm saving up for a car.   Well, Tiger Woods would have been proud to make that putt!   What a shame that Troy is only bussing dishes all summer,   given that he's a potential star for your alma mater, Daddy.   I've seen Troy play basketball.   I think the U of A Redhawks will be very interested in him.   That's inspired, Daddy. Troy is very concerned about college.   - Really? - Yeah.   - How's Coach Bolton these days? - Oh, fantastic.   Outstanding.   What?   Oh, next time I see Country Club Princess,   I'm gonna launch her and her pink cart straight into the lake.   I'll build the ramp, buddy.   Danforth, this is a kitchen, not a day spa.   You and Jason suit up for dinner duty in the dining room.   Bolton, you have five minutes to change and come with me.   In case you're not familiar with this particular item,   it goes around your neck,   like a dog collar.   Chop-chop.   - And she stepped on the ball. - I did not.   - Yes, you did. - I can believe that.   Hey! Here's our superstar. Troy Bolton, this is Peter.   - Peter. Good to meet you. - How are you?   - This is Claire. - Hello.   - And you know the family. - Hello.   This kid's pretty handy on the fairways as well as the hard court.   Bet you worked up yourself an appetite   lugging those bags all over the place, huh?   Yeah, yeah. A little bit.   What do you say we get some food, and we can talk about your future.   - My future? - Yeah, sit down.   Have a seat.   Daddy's on the board of directors at the University of Albuquerque.   So, Troy, I saw your championship game. I mean, wow!   That last-second shot at the buzzer... Outstanding.   Actually, my teammates here stole the ball,   otherwise I wouldn't have had a chance...   Oh, you're much too modest, Troy.   You were voted MVP for the entire season.   This shirt positively screams for a Windsor knot.   - Thank you. - Let me get that for you.   You know, we've got a heck of a basketball programme over at U of A,   and an excellent scholarship programme as well.   Scholarship?   Yeah. You know, between the two of us here,   we... We pull a little weight over at the school.   Well, time flies when you're having fun,   but Mr Fulton will probably want me clocking out.   Come on. Don't be silly.   You haven't had any dessert, and we haven't talked about golf, yet.   Oh, basketball and golf are just the beginning with Troy, Daddy.   Have you heard him sing?   Oh, triple threat.   Oh, how wonderful. Troy can participate in the talent show.   Oh, come on, Troy. Give them a sample. Kelsi!   Kelsi. No, actually my voice is...   Is feeling a little bit hoarse tonight, you know, all the talking.   But thank you very much for the food and the golf and everything.   It was amazing.   But you will sing some other time, though? With me. Promise?   - Promise. - Perfect.   Dessert?   Sorry I'm late! Give me two more minutes.   Nice tie. Your shoes don't match though. Kidding.   Honey, two minutes is being late, but an hour is approaching a felony.   Just because Troy's a nice guy, doesn't mean he's immune to boy disease.   Boy disease?   Yeah, forgetting things he shouldn't forget.   Oh, so now you're a boy expert?   My older sister has 10 rules about boy behaviour,   and nine of them involve boys forgetting things   they should never forget, like dinner dates.   Well, it wasn't an official date type of thing.   Rule number three, all dates are official,   whether the boy knows it or not.   - You're not done. - But I'm done for the day, sir.   And actually, I have a date.   Mr Bolton, you're under the mistaken impression   I'm interested in what you have to say. Just follow me.   - But I... - No more speaking.   - Hey, where are we going? - Please, Mr Bolton.   - How long is this gonna take? - Watch your step. Insurance issues.   I'm supposed to have a date tonight.   But the evening is young and so are you.   Well, where are we?   Hold your applause until the very end.   What the heck? Mr Fulton?   A long time ago In a land far away   Lived the pineapple princess, Tiki   She was sweet as a peach In a pineapple way   But so sad that she hardly speaky   Still, if you listen well You'll hear her secret wish   Aloha, everybody, my name is Tiki.   I long to free A truly remarkable fish   My sweet prince   Humu, humu, nuku, nuku, a pua'a   Makahiki malihini who   Humu, humu, nuku, nuku, a pua'a Ooh   Hawana waka, waka, waka Niki pu, pu, pu   Ryan, the fog!   She dreams of a boy Who is under a spell   That has left him all wet and scaly   I sing from my heart Of the power of love   Just a girl with a ukulele   - Come to me - Come to her   - My sweet one, and be still - Be still   I'll grasp your tail Then stroke each tender gill   My sweet prince   Humu, humu, nuku, nuku, a pua'a   Makahiki malihini who   Humu, humu, nuku, nuku, a pua'a Ooh   Hawana waka, waka, waka Niki pu, pu, pu   Now this is where we lead into the whole Kabuki thing.   The clouds turned grey And the big sky cried   And the ocean had a fit   Ryan! Where's my ocean?   Then the wind went whoosh And thunder cracked   And mighty Mount Fufu spit Mighty Mount Fufu spit   Tiki, Tiki Want to speaky, speaky, speaky   With the mighty spirit Fufu   Tiki, Tiki Want to speaky, speaky, speaky   - The words I will not mince - Word!   Please make a man Of my fresh fish prince   This is real fish talk. No lie.   And then the fish turns into a gorgeous prince and sings...   I'm Prince Humu Humu, nuku, nuku, a pua'a   No. No way.   Makahiki malihini who   With me.   Humu, humu, nuku, nuku, a pua'a   Hawana waka, waka, waka Niki pu, pu, pu   Everybody!   Humu, humu, nuku, nuku, a pua'a   Makahiki malihini who   Humu, humu, nuku, nuku, a pua'a   Hawana waka, waka, waka Niki pu, pu, pu   Waka, waka, waka Niki pu, pu, pu   Waka, waka, waka Niki pu, pu, pu   One minute.   We'll talk about this later.   So, you love it?   Look, you ever tried just singing?   I mean, without all the lights and sets and, like, backup people?   Well, it'd be much harder to get applause that way.   I'm not talking about applause.   I'm talking about hanging out with friends.   You know, doing nothing, and singing for fun.   Wait a minute. Not doing anything.   That might work. A dark stage, a single spotlight.   We break out of darkness into the circle of light.   - Wait, "we"? - No set, no frills.   - Oh, man. - Simple.   Dramatic. Just you and me.   That is such a great idea, Troy. We could do it at our club talent show.   Look, I'm here to work.   Sharpay, I already told you being onstage really is your thing,   it's not mine.   It could be our thing.   Time out on that one, okay? I've got an "our thing,"   it's with Gabriella, and... And I'm very late for her, so I got to go.   - But the show could be so amazing... - I love your shoes.   - You like them? - I really do.   I bought them in New York. I have them in nine colours.   Girls! Again from the top.   Hey, lifeguard!   You're crazy, Wildcat!   And so late, but I brought food, a few little candles.   I'm good for a poolside picnic. What do you say?   Zeke even made desserts. But first, I dare you to jump in.   You know we're not supposed to be in the pool. Club rules.   Cramp!   I need a lifeguard! Rescue me! Rescue me!   Here I come!   Thanks for coming in. Follow me.   Oh, listen.   You know, right now, with you,   it's finally starting to feel like summer.   Yeah, it is.   The water bugs are back.   Look, Mr Fulton, this was my idea, she had nothing to do with it.   I generously overlooked your previous break violation,   but then came the golf course jaunt,   and now this. Two strikes.   Don't get a third. Out of the pool.   Sharpay's dad let me play a few holes   and then invited me to dinner with some U of A alumni.   Really?   And they were talking about scholarships,   while Jason and Chad were, like, serving me.   And getting paid for it. It's called a job.   You were invited, nothing wrong with that.   Yeah. I don't know. It felt weird.   I love that you've got the team working together,   but you're not gonna be a Wildcat forever.   The team is now, and that's... It's good,   but everybody's got their own future.   I'm not sure I know what you mean.   Well, when you graduate,   lots of people are gonna be chasing the same opportunities.   There's nothing wrong with keeping your eye on the prize.   In fact, if you don't, you get left behind.   Yeah, I know, I'm just saying, I didn't get my friends jobs at the club   so they could sit and watch me eat in the dining room.   You know, I'm just saying never be ashamed of attention,   as long as you've earned it.   You know, a scholarship's special,   that's why there's only a few to go around.   Yeah, yeah. I get it, Dad.   Okay. So, how was the food at Lava Springs?   Insanely good.   - Take it out for a spin. - No way.   Well, you didn't think I was going to drive this heap, did you?   Yes! Yes!   Okay, bring those knees up as high as you can and circle those arms.   Hey, water bug. Last night was so fun.   I really didn't mean to get you in trouble.   Same here.   - So, maybe today we can have our... - Troy?   What time is your lunch break?   Troy!   - 1:30. - 1:30, great.   Free cheeseburgers are on me. Everybody looks great. Awesome job.   Okay, now, some jumping jacks.   Hey. What is she up to?   - Who knows? - Believe me, she does.   I'm sorry I'm late, Mr Fulton,   but about the pool thing last night, you can't blame Gabriella...   - I'm promoting you. - You're what?   There's an opening as an assistant to the golf pros.   Salaried job, no clocking in.   - But, I... - $500 a week, plus tips.   What? Per week?   Oh, my... That's off the hook! I think it sounds very manageable.   Shall we?   Bolton!   - Wait. So you want me to teach golf? - To kids. Oh, the joy.   - But, sir, I don't think I'm qualified. - Worry not.   Simply show the little angels which end of the club to hold,   tee the ball up, then duck.   In addition, the board is extending membership privileges to you.   You have complete use of club facilities, but do so prudently,   meaning, fellow Wildcats? Not.   Congratulations.   You'll find an appropriate choice of clothing here.   Do not mix checks with plaids, blue with browns,   and avoid wearing white socks at all cost.   Leave your shoes outside the locker,   they will be buffed and polished each evening.   Yes! Oh, man!   Save it for the first tee.   And to get there, this might come in handy.   That's the key to your golf cart. Number 14.   The same number that's on your basketball uniform, so I'm told.   Questions?   How did this happen?   It would seem that the Evans family thinks you have untapped potential.   Young man, the future is full of uncharted waters,   and this family has real clout, so I suggest you take the ride.   Yeah.   Italian.   Awesome, junior golfers! You guys look amazing!   Hey! Hey! Slow down, champ. Slow down.   Save some for the other kids. There you go.   Cool shorts, buddy.   All right. Hey. Hey, cutie. Try holding the club that way,   you're going to hit it way farther.   All right. Nice backswing, man. Nice backswing.   Good job, killer. Make the ball fear you.   You look good. Great job, everybody. Good job, guys!   - Bolton. Bolton. Your 11:30 is here. - Thanks, man.   Good luck, buddy.   Troy!   Oh, man.   - Cool balls. - Thanks.   You're welcome.   By the end of summer, you'll have me playing like a pro.   Yeah.   If I live that long.   I'm so excited about the show.   Oh, and don't worry. We'll find something great to do.   Look, Sharpay, I already told you, singing really isn't my thing.   And here's the best news, all the Redhawk boosters will be there.   - Really? - Of course.   We'll lock up your scholarship with a high "C" right from centre stage.   We're all in this together, right?   Your parents have been really, really nice, Sharpay,   but singing with you isn't a part of my job.   I know, just something you promised to do.   Remember?   You look fabulous in your new clothes, by the way.   - You like the shoes? They're Italian. - Nice.   Let me show you how this is done. It's really easy.   Just line up to your target. Nice, easy backswing.   - Hey, Gab. - Hey!   That girl's got more moves than an octopus in a wrestling match.   - Nah. He knows how to swim. - Yeah. Troy can handle himself.   I did overhear him asking her for her opinion   on his new Italian golf shoes.   He didn't ask me.   So, wake up, sister! She's basically offering him a college education   just to sing with her in the talent show.   - Troy would never do that. - You got eyes, use them.   - Let's go eat. - Yeah, I got to go. Hey, see you later?   - Okay. - Okay.   You're going to take it back and through.   - Troy, Fulton wants you in the lobby. - Fantastic. Thank you. See you.   And she steps on the ball.   - Troy Bolton. This is... - I've seen them all play at U of A.   Oh, all right. Well, come scrimmage at our gym.   It'll be good for your game.   - Play with you guys? - Yeah. Let's get down, bro.   - Awesome. - All right.   - Let's all get some awesome lunch. - Yeah.   I knew it! Coral blue!   It's perfect for your skin tone. And mine, too!   We are majorly skin-tone compatible, Troy.   - I have no idea what that means. - You don't need to. I'm here for you.   - Who's hungry? - Let's eat.   I mean, how can you hit the ball straight if your clubs don't trust you?   - That's the key. So, it's all in the grip. - Okay.   You got to hold it just right. That looks great.   Hey, I almost forgot.   I ordered Swiss on my burger.   So, go ahead and check it out, man. Try it. See what you think.   Danforth, table three needs more iced tea.   Now, rotate your hands over the top.   - Put your thumb on that side. - Okay.   There you go, man. You're good. I'll see you on the course.   - Yeah. Let's do it, man. - Yeah.   - Zeke! Troy wants Swiss. - Coming right up.   You know, you were right.   There's a guy out there that looks just like Troy Bolton,   but I have no idea who he really is.   Oh, hey. Kelsi's got some great new ideas   - to spice up the talent show. It's got... - I'm thrilled.   That new duet that Troy and Gabriella sang? I need it.   - Actually, it's not available. - Repeat.   Well, it's something I wrote for Troy and Gabriella,   just in case they decide to...   You're an employee, not a fairy godmother. Let's have it.   Transpose it into my key. Troy and I will be doing it in the talent show.   Oh, and brighten up the tempo. We'll need to keep people awake.   What about our song?   - What about Humu Humu? - Change in plans.   What am I supposed to do with my Tiki Warrior outfit?   Save it for Halloween, go to a luau, sell it online. I don't know!   But in the meantime, keep an eye on those Wildcats.   If they're planning on being in the show,   which I doubt, once they hear about Troy and me,   I don't want any surprises. Oh, and don't worry,   I'll find a song for you somewhere in the show.   - Or the next show. - Really?   Don't strain yourself, slick.   Entertainers are so temperamental. Transpose!   Look at you.   - Go, team. - Yeah. It's a gift from the guys.   The "guys"? Oh, you mean all those tall people?   Yeah. Yeah. Hey, look. I got to go in a minute,   but I'll be back in about an hour. I'll pick you up in my new truck   and we'll go to a movie. I promise.   "Promise" is a really big word, Troy.   Yeah. I know.   And we've got the staff baseball game after work.   Remember, you "promised" that you'd play?   Right. Right. Baseball. I will absolutely meet you there.   - You forgot, didn't you? - No. I just got the date mixed up.   And I'm sorry I couldn't make lunch today. I just...   It's been wild, you know?   I can't believe how things are working out here.   So I see. Italian golf shoes, new clothes, golf carts.   That's crazy stuff. Hard to keep track of it all, I bet.   So, what's your point?   It just doesn't seem like new stuff, it seems like a new Troy.   All right, let's see if Tiger Woods still has a jump shot.   - Hey, hey, Bolton! Come on! - Hey!   Why don't you tell them to come over here and mix it up?   We'll show them some game.   You know, I don't think that's how they roll.   That's not how they "roll"?   No, no, no, that's not what I meant. I just think it's a closed practice. Sorry.   Wow. Well, maybe you can get us a video?   Bolton, come on!   But yesterday you said we were going to play two-on-two after work,   - before the baseball game. - I know. I know, man. I'm sorry.   Come on, Zeke, that was so yesterday. You know, when we were all on a team!   - Hey, man. - Hey, how's it going?   Hey, Bolton! That's my ball.   - Here we go! - How's it going, guys?   Would you guys be mad at me if I ask him to get me   one of those cool Redhawk jackets?   Hey. Come on.   I'm so excited about the game. It's going to be so cool.   Hey, Ryan. No rehearsals?   My sister is working up something new.   So, you coming to the baseball game?   I'm not staff. Wasn't invited.   Hey, everyone's invited. Come on. Hop in.   All right.   Hold on!   All right! Right here!   Beep, beep!   Beep, beep!   What, did Fulton send you out here to spy on us?   Nah, my sister did.   She thinks you guys are going to upstage her talent show.   Oh, no worries. We were going to do the show,   but then Troy bailed on us, so, whatever.   What do you mean "whatever"? It's our summer, remember?   I thought we decided doing the show would be fun.   - Well, I think so. - Me, too.   - Who are we kidding? - I don't think so.   We don't know how to put together a show.   No, but he does.   If we have a real director putting it together, it could be great.   Have the employees ever won a Star Dazzle Award?   - Hey, now... - I know what you can do, Ryan,   - so why not do it for us? - All right, look,   if you want to play ball, then grab a mitt, but I don't dance.   You don't think dancing takes some game?   - You got game? - A little.   Yes!   Hey, pitcher. Ball.   All right! Let's hustle! Come on! Wildcats!   Get your head in the game!   Hey! Oh! Play ball   Hey, hey!   Hey, batter batter, hey, batter batter Swing   I've got to just do my thing   Hey, batter batter, hey, batter batter Swing   Yeah   I'll show you that it's one and the same Baseball, dancing, same game   It's easy Step up to the plate, start swinging   I want to play ball now and that's all   This is what I do It ain't no dance that you can show me   Hey, hey, hey   - Yeah - You'll never know   - Oh, I know - lf you never try   There's just one little thing that stops me every time   - Yeah - Come on!   - I don't dance - I know you can   - Not a chance - No   - lf I can do this, well, you can do that - But I don't dance   - Hit it out of the park - I don't dance   - I say you can - There's not a chance   - Oh - Slide home, you score   Swinging on the dance floor   I don't dance, no   Hey, batter batter, hey, batter batter Swing   I've got to just do my thing   Hey, batter batter, hey, batter batter Swing   Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah   Two stepping, now you're up to bat Bases loaded, do your dance   It's easy, take your best shot Just hit it   I've got what it takes playing my game   So, you better spin that pitch you're gonna throw me   - Yeah - I'll show you how I swing   - You'll never know - Oh, I know   If you never try   There's just one little thing   - That stops me every time - Yeah, come on   - I don't dance - I know you can   - Not a chance - No, no   If I can do this Well, you can do that   - But I don't dance - Hit it out of the park   - I don't dance - I say you can   There's not a chance Oh no   Slide home, you score Swingin' on the dance floor   I don't dance no   Lean back, tuck it in, take a chance   Swing it out, spin around do the dance   I wanna play ball not dance hall I'm makin' a triple not a curtain call   I can prove it to you till you know it's true   'Cause I can swing it I can bring it to the diamond too   You're talkin' a lot Show me what you got   Stop Swing   Hey Swing it like this   Yeah oh   - Swing - Come on   - Jitterbug - Just like that oh   That's what I mean That's how you swing   You make a good pitch but I don't believe   - I say you can - I know I can't   I don't dance   You can do it   I don't dance, no   Nothin' to it Atta boy, Atta boy, yeah   Hey, batter batter, hey, batter batter What   One, two, three, four Everybody, swing, come on   - I don't dance - I know you can   Not a chance No, no   If I can do this Well, you can do that   But I don't dance   Hit it out of the park   - I don't dance - I say you can   There's not a chance No, no   If I can do this Well, you can do that   But I don't dance   Hit it out of the park   - I don't dance - I know you can   Not a chance No, no   If I can do this Well, you can do that   But I don't dance   Hit it out of the park   - I don't dance - I say you can   - There's not a chance - Oh   Slide home, you score Swinging on the dance floor   I don't dance, no   Safe!   That's it!   It's okay!   Hey, Evans.   I'm not saying I'm going to dance in the show,   but if I did, what would you have me do?   Hey! Get back, get back!   Here we go, here we go! Defence, hold him tight!   Oh, dang!   This kid's good. I like what I'm seeing.   Troy gives 110, 24l7, that you can count on.   Here we go!   - Game. Game. - Good game!   Was I right?   Great.   All right, so you call that a "little" game?   Little League. World Series. Newport, Rhode Island.   Champions.   - Good job! - Nice hat.   - You're so awesome. - Hey.   What can I say?   - Troy, you ready to run it back? - Let's run it, man.   - All right. Let's go, yo. - Let's go.   Let's go, yo, let's go. Let's run it back.   - Looking good. - Wow, Wildcat!   - Too much? - Only in daylight.   - Yeah. - East High colours, very impressive.   - Hey. Be true to your school, right? - Absolutely.   Everyone's excited about doing the show.   Hey, I know everyone thinks that I'm Sharpay's poodle,   - but I really think that I could... - Hey.   If they were thinking that, they're not thinking that today.   How do you do that swing-step you did last night?   That's easy.   Hey.   - Hey. - Hey.   So, I called last night. I got hung up at the gym.   Hey, my dad says you're doing great with those college guys.   Oh. Yeah. They're awesome.   Playing with them is like being in another world.   Well, you missed out on a fun night. It was a great game.   But the dessert afterwards had to be the best part.   Her mom makes the best brownies   - in the entire world. - Yeah, I know. I've had them.   Well, I'll see you guys later.   Hey, LeBron, how'd it go with the Redhawks?   You know, they're very tall.   We got Vince from maintenance to play, so it worked out.   - In case you were wondering. - Maybe we could play later today.   I don't know. Check with Vince.   Well, Mr Evans set up the workout, not me.   Did you even ask to include us, Captain?   I didn't go looking for the Redhawks, the Redhawks came to me. Okay?   I didn't sign up for this golf job, Fulton offered it. I said yes.   My decision. But I show up to work same as you, so chill, man.   You get a speck of dirt on your pants,   - and someone dry cleans you. - And you wouldn't do the same thing...   - lf I was as good as you? - I did not say that.   - You didn't have to! - And neither did you!   You know what? We didn't vote you captain because of your jump shot.   Okay, we did it because you're the guy who usually knows what's up.   - But I guess things change. - You think you got me all figured out?   Well, I don't think so. And I don't answer to you.   Then maybe you should start answering to yourself!   Look, we have been like brothers since pre-school.   If I don't know who you are these days, then who does?   Excuse me. You're all being paid to work, not play Dr Phil. Chop-chop.   Table settings, nice. Oh. No, no.   No. No. No. Now, that? Fabulous.   Troy!   Daddy will make certain the entire scholarship committee is right here.   Perfect view.   I've already spoken to your mother.   They're going to be sitting at a table right next to ours.   It's going to be a fabulous evening.   - Come on. - Great.   Rehearsal, everyone!   - Taylor, I'm signing off on everything. - Fabulous!   - Thank you, Mrs Evans. - Good job.   Look, Sharpay. I know I promised I'd do this, but just take it easy on me.   I'm kind of new to the whole performing thing.   Five, six, seven, eight!   You are the music in   You are the music in Are the music in   You know the words "Once upon a time"   Makes you listen, there's a reason   And when you dream there's a chance you'll find   A little laughter, or happy ever after   You're harmony to the melody   That's echoing inside my head   A single voice   Above the noise   Like a common thread Sing it to me   When I hear my favourite song I know we belong   'Cause you are the music in me   It's living in all of us   It's here Because you are the music in me   You are the music in   You are the music in Are the music in   Harmony to the melody   Echoing inside my head   When I hear my favourite song I know we belong   'Cause you are the music in me   It's living in all of us   It's here Because you are the music in   Me, me, me, me, me   You are the music in   You are the music in me   Yeah, yeah   Oh, yeah   Great job! One second.   Great rehearsal!   Everybody break!   You know, Troy, I've always known you were special.   And it's pretty obvious I'm special, too.   I think we were meant to sing together, don't you?   I need some air.   Don't be long! We're going to run it again!   Show me what you got!   Come on, everybody! Here we go!   You're up! You're up! You're up first!   Here we go! Give it to me!   Come on! Oh, yeah!   You got it! Here we go! Pass it to me!   Come on, let's dance!   You're up! You're up!   Let's show them what we got!   Come on! All right!   Oh, cut that! Get out of here!   - You got it! Hey. - Good job!   - Thank you. - You're welcome.   I said keep an eye on them, not turn them into the cast of Grease!   Pretty cool, huh?   Do you want us to lose the Star Dazzle Award to a bunch of dishwashers?   Us? Well, I guess that's showbiz.   When did you become one of them?   You know, I'll take that as a compliment.   But you and Troy have a good show, sis.   Oh, we plan to.   Give me a beat.   The Midsummer's Night Talent Show means something to me,   - and to my family. - Well...   Those Wildcats will turn it into a farce.   I'm... Your brother is one of "those Wildcats," I'm told.   Oh, don't you mention that traitor to us.   Employee involvement in the show is a tradition here.   Traditions change. My parents have important guests coming.   We'll need every employee working the party, and not on stage.   Pardon moi, but we're not just talking about employees,   we're talking about your classmates. You might want to think this one out.   All right.   Done. Now do it.   - Hi, Taylor. - Hi.   Distribute these in the staff area, but not until the end of shift.   - What? Wait! Mr Fulton... - No discussion, Miss McKessie.   This is a business. Welcome to the world of adults   who wish to keep their jobs because they have mortgages they wish to pay,   tuition bills, car payments, et cetera, et cetera, et cetera.   So, sometimes, we have to perform tasks, however unpleasant,   that are necessary for that all-too-important paycheque   to land in our all-too-empty pockets!   - May I get you a cup of tea, Mr Fulton? - Chamomile would be lovely.   - Go, Martha! Go, Martha! - Go, Martha! Go, Martha!   May I have your attention, please?   You guys, I need to make an announcement.   All junior staffers will be required to work on show night.   - What? - Yeah, it says,   "No staff participation in the show will be allowed. No exceptions."   - No show? - There's a show. We're just not in it.   That's great.   I'm sorry, you guys. There's nothing we can do about it. It's Fulton's orders.   There's no way this is Fulton's idea.   Unless Fulton suddenly has blonde hair and wears designer flip-flops.   Excuse me.   - Totally! - Sharpay!   Forget about the rest of us, how about the fact   that your brother has worked extremely hard on this show?   Oh, boo-hoo. He'll be in the show. He'll do his celebrity impersonations.   And don't lecture me about Ryan,   given the way you've been interfering with Troy's future.   What?   You've gotten him written up by Fulton for sneaking on the golf course,   swimming after hours. I had to step in just to save Troy's job.   I'm not interested in what you think you're doing for Troy.   That's between you and him. But you're messing with my friends,   my summer, and that's not okay with me.   You don't like the fact that I won.   What's the prize? Troy? The Star Dazzle Award?   You have to go through all of this just to get either one?   No, thanks, Sharpay.   You're very good at a game that I don't want to play,   so I'm done here.   But you better step away from the mirror   long enough to check the damage that will always be right behind you.   Girls!   Hey. What do you mean you're done here?   I mean, you can't quit.   Us working together sounded good, but plans change and people change.   The club talent show is a big deal for Sharpay,   and evidently for your future, so it's cool.   Just make it happen.   - Wear your new Italian shoes. - Hey, I'm still me.   Blowing off your friends, missing dates?   - Lf that's you, it's good to know. - No, no, no, no, no.   I was only doing that because I'm working on the scholarship thing.   You know that.   But if along the way you act like someone you're not,   pretty soon that's who you become.   I meant what I said about movies and summer and just being together.   I'm sure you did, at the time.   But I also meant what I said, that I want to remember this summer.   But not like this, Troy.   I gotta say what's on my mind   Something about us doesn't seem right these days   Life keeps getting in the way   Whenever we try   Somehow the plan is always rearranged   It's so hard to say But I gotta do what's best for me   You'll be okay   I've got to move on and be who I am   I just don't belong here I hope you understand   We might find a place in this world someday   But at least for now I gotta go my own way   Don't wanna leave it all behind   But I get my hopes up   And I watch them fall every time   Another colour turns to grey   And it's just too hard to watch it all Slowly fade away   I'm leaving today 'Cause I gotta do what's best for me   You'll be okay   I've got to move on and be who I am   I just don't belong here I hope you understand   We might find our place in this world someday   But at least for now I gotta go my own way   What about us?   What about everything we've been through?   What about trust?   You know I never wanted to hurt you   What about me?   What am I supposed to do?   - I gotta leave, but I'll miss you - I'll miss you   Oh, so   I've got to move on and be who I am   Why do you have to go?   I just don't belong here I hope you understand   I'm trying to understand   We might find a place in this world someday   - But at least for now - I want you to stay   I gotta go my own way   I've got to move on and be who I am   What about us?   I just don't belong here I hope you understand   I'm trying to understand   We might find our place in this world someday   But at least for now I gotta go my own way   I gotta go my own way   I gotta go my own way   You're usually taking these right off the grill.   Maybe I've been eating too much at the club.   You've barely been out of this room the last three or four days.   - Let's call the guys, get a game going. - They wouldn't come even if I called.   I find that hard to believe.   Dad, do I seem different to you this summer?   You dress a lot better, that's for sure.   Oh, man, I'm serious. Maybe my friends are right,   maybe I'm turning into a jerk with new shoes.   New shoes, not a new kid. Where's this coming from?   I've been so focused on my future.   I mean, Gabriella quit. Chad won't talk to me.   I don't see the Wildcats running around here.   Is this about going after what you want?   Yeah, Dad. The scholarship's important. I get it.   Hey, hey.   Look, it's only a big deal if it makes sense to you.   I don't even know who I am any more.   You know what?   I've known this kid for a long, long time.   And I got a lot of faith in him. He looks a lot like you.   I'm absolutely sure he's going to figure out the right thing to do.   It's so good. I cannot wait.   Yeah, I'm eating so much breakfast,   I won't be able to eat my dinner at night.   Oh, yeah. It's okay, Ryan's gonna help.   - I don't know. - We'll get it eventually.   Excuse me.   Everybody's always talking at me   Everybody's trying to get in my head   I wanna listen to my own heart talking   I need to count on myself instead   - Did you ever - Lose yourself to get what you want?   - Did you ever - Get on a ride then wanna get off?   Did you ever   Push away the ones you should've held close?   Did you ever let go? Did you ever not know?   I'm not gonna stop, that's who I am   I'll give it all I got, that is my plan   Will I find what I lost? You know you can   Bet on it, bet on it, bet on it, bet on it   Bet on me   I wanna make it right, that is the way   To turn my life around Today is the day   Am I the type of guy who means what I say?   Bet on it, bet on it, bet on it, bet on it   How will I know if there's a path worth taking?   Should I question every move I make?   With all I've lost, my heart is breaking   I don't want to make the same mistakes   Did you ever   Doubt your dream will ever come true?   Did you ever   Blame the world but never blame you?   - I will never - Try to live a lie again   I don't wanna win this game if I can't play it my way   I'm not gonna stop, that's who I am   I'll give it all I got, that is my plan   Will I find what I lost? You know you can   Bet on it, bet on it, bet on it, bet on it   I wanna make it right, that is the way   To turn my life around Today is the day   Am I the type of guy who means what I say?   Bet on it, bet on it, bet on it, bet on it   Oh, hold up   Gimme room to think Bring it on down   Gotta work on my swing Gotta do my own thing   Hold up   It's no good at all to see yourself   And not recognise your face   Out on my own It's such a scary place   The answers are all inside of me   All I got to do is believe   I'm not gonna stop, not gonna stop till I get my shot   That's who I am, that is my plan We'll end up on top   You can bet on it, bet on it bet on it, bet on   You can bet on it, bet on it, bet on it Bet on me   I wanna make it right, that is the way   To turn my life around Today is the day   Am I the type of guy who means what I say?   Bet on it, bet on it, bet on it You can bet on me   This way.   What do you mean you're not doing the show?   - Exactly that. - We're singing a duet, Troy!   A duet means two people.   Well, mostly me in this case, but whatever! Duet!   I'm an employee. Employees aren't allowed in the show.   No, no, no, no. No, no. You're an honorary member.   Not any more.   - I asked Fulton for my kitchen job back. - What?   Sharpay, I don't like the way you've been treating my friends.   And I don't like the way I've been treating them either,   so I'm doing something about it.   An entire table of University boosters are coming to see you, thanks to me.   So, I'll be their waiter. They'll be thrilled.   Troy, Troy. This could change your life!   I'm more interested in about what my friends think of me,   and what I think of myself.   Oh, we could all hold hands around the campfire some other time!   Right now we've got a show to do.   No. You've got a show to do. I got a kitchen to clean.   It's okay.   Kelsi, find Ryan.   Welcome this evening. You'll be seated at table 21.   Kelly, will you escort them, please? Excellent.   Ladies, you look gorgeous   - this evening. Beautiful. - And now, returning with   a abridged version of last year's tap-dancing epic,   Tina and her Tippety-Tappity Toes!   There you are! Thank goodness you've come to your senses.   Plug in the volcano. Humu Humu is back on.   Enjoy your pineapple on your own, sis. I'm not doing the show.   What? Oh, put some fresh batteries in your Tiki Warrior costume   - and let's get going! - Took your advice. Sold it online.   You've always wanted the spotlight. Now you've got it. Break a leg.   The curtain's up. Showtime!   Kelsi told us what went down between you and Sharpay.   I'm more interested in what went down between me and you, man.   - I was a jerk. - Yeah.   But, hey, brothers fight.   And they're still brothers.   All right!   Guys, I messed up your show and I'm sorry.   Yeah, because show business is our entire lives, right?   Hey, I hope you haven't permanently filled my spot in the two-on-two game.   And, Ryan, I know how hard you must've worked on this show.   Making these Wildcats look good couldn't have been easy.   - Hey. - So, I apologise.   Hey, the truth is, we've all had a lot of fun.   At least, I have.   Hey, you gotta see this dude play baseball.   I'm looking forward to it.   - All right! - Yeah!   Troy, listen, all these people out there,   I don't really want to see my sister crash and burn.   At least, I think I don't. I think you should sing with her.   My life is over. I've been a good girl.   I've never lied, except when necessary.   I always bought my parents expensive gifts,   using their credit card, of course. But I don't deserve this humiliation!   You need to get out there. Mrs Hoffenfeffer and her sock puppet   are stinking up the premises.   Well, the only thing that would make it any lovelier would be   that if I won that Star Dazzle Award! Sharpay, I'm going to find you.   That award, I tell you, it's mine! Mine! Mine!   Mirror, mirror on the wall. Who's the... Oh, forget it.   How's your show going?   How's it going?   My show makes the captain of the Titanic   look like he won the lottery.   - I'll sing with you, Sharpay. - What?   I promised. And I keep my promises.   But what was the first thing you said to me when I started working here?   - Bring me more iced tea? - Think harder. We're...   - All in this together. - Exactly.   Well, we are.   So, let's get out there and knock them dead, Troy Bolton!   I do the show if the Wildcats do the show.   And I'd think fast.   I just sort of wish you were doing this for me.   You're a good guy, Troy.   And actually, right now, I think I like you better than I like myself.   Did I just say that?   Girls! Places!   - Okay. Everyone. Ryan, the show's on. - Where's the music? Where's Troy?   Talked to Sharpay, everything's cool.   Hey, speaking of my sister, she wants you to learn a new song.   Everyday. I can't learn a new song!   - Kelsi will help you with it. - What?   - It's showtime! - Yeah!   - What team? - Wildcats!   - What team? - Wildcats!   - What team? - Wildcats!   Once in a lifetime   And now it's time for our five-time   Star Dazzle Award winner, Miss Sharpay Evans,   singing this year with our assistant golf pro, Mr Troy Bolton.   Where is Troy?   - Hey. Why did you switch songs? - Switch songs? What?   - Yeah, Ryan said... - Bolton!   - But I didn't learn a new song. - Exactly.   Girls!   Once in a lifetime   Means there's no second chance   So I believe that you and me   Should grab it while we can   Make it last forever   And never give it back   It's our turn and I'm loving where we're at   Because this moment's really all we have   Every day of our lives   Wanna find you there Wanna hold on tight   Gonna run   While we're young And keep the faith   Every day   From right now   Gonna use our voices and scream out loud   Take my hand   Together we will celebrate   Celebrate   Oh, every day   They say that you should follow   And chase down what you dream   But if you get lost and lose yourself   What does it really mean?   No matter where we're going   Oh, yeah, it starts from where we are   There's more to life   When we listen to our hearts   And because of you I've got the strength to start   Yeah, yeah, yeah   Every day of our lives   Wanna find you there Wanna hold on tight   Gonna run   While we're young And keep the faith   Oh, every day   From right now   Gonna use our voices and scream out loud   Take my hand   Together we will celebrate   Oh, every day   We're taking it back We're doing it here together   It's better like that And stronger now than ever   We're not gonna lose   'Cause we get to choose That's how it's gonna be   Every day of our lives   Wanna find you there Wanna hold on tight   Gonna run   While we're young And keep the faith   Keep the faith   Every day of our lives   Wanna find you there Wanna hold on tight   Gonna run   While we're young And keep the faith   Oh, yeah   - Every day - Every day   From right now   Gonna use our voices and scream out loud   - Take my hand - Take my hand   Together we will celebrate   - Every day - Oh, every day   Oh, oh, every day   Oh, every day   Every day   - Oh, yeah, yeah - I'm singing every day   Every day   Every day   Every day   Every day   Every day   Every day   Yeah   Just fabulous! Fabulous!   Well. If you'll all please take your seats.   I have one last task to perform this evening.   The Star Dazzle for this year goes to, of course, our one and only...   My brother, Ryan Evans!   That's our boy!   Fix the hat.   Yeah   You are the music in me   You know the words "Once upon a time"   Make you listen   there's a reason   When you dream There's a chance you'll find   A little laughter, or happy ever after   You're harmony to the melody   That's echoing inside my head   A single voice above the noise   - Here's to the future. - No. Here's to right now.   And like a common thread   You're pulling me   When I hear my favourite song I know that we belong   Oh, you are the music in me   Yeah, it's living in all of us   And it's brought us here because   - Because you are the music in me - Because you are the music in me   Yeah, yeah, yeah   You are the music in me   When I hear my favourite song I know that we belong   You are the music in me   It's living in all of us   And it's brought us here because   You are the music in me   You are the music in me   One, two, three, four   The summer that we wanted   Yeah, we've finally got it   Now's the time we get to share   Each day we'll be together   Now until forever   So everybody everywhere   Let's take it to the beach Take it there together   Let's celebrate today 'Cause there'll never be another   We're stronger this time We've been there for each other   Everything's just right   Everybody, all for one   Our real summer has just begun   Let's rock and roll, and just let go   Feel the rhythm of the drums   We're gonna have fun in the sun   Now that all the hard work Work is done   Everybody one for all And all for one   - All for one - All for one, one   Summertime together   Now we're even closer   That's the way it's meant to be   Oh, we're just getting started   Come and join the party   You deserve it same as me   Let's take it to the beach Take it there together   Let's celebrate today 'Cause there'll never be another   We're stronger this time We've been there for each other   Everything's just right   Everybody, all for one   Our real summer has just begun   Let's rock and roll, and just let go   Feel the rhythm of the drums   We're gonna have fun in the sun   Now that all the hard work Work is done   Everybody one for all And all for one   Everybody up   Everybody rock it   Take it from the top   And never ever stop it   It's not about the future   It's not about the past   It's making every single day Last and last and last   Fun and sun What could be better?   Let's have fun Everyone together now   Everybody, everybody now   This is where our summer really begins   The very last time it's ever gonna be like this   It's a party you don't wanna miss   Guys, show them we can make some moves, hey   Girls, show them we know how to groove, oh   - Here - And now   - Let's turn the party - Out   Everybody jump in   Everybody, all for one   Our real summer has just begun   Let's rock and roll, and just let go   Feel the rhythm of the drums   We're gonna have fun in the sun   Now that all the hard work Work is done   Everybody one for all   Everybody, all for one   Let's rock and roll, and just let go   Feel the rhythm of the drums   We're gonna have fun in the sun   Now that all the hard work Work is done   Come on, everyone, let's dance   We can't let the moment pass   Let's make the party last   All for one   All for one   Yeah!   Coral blue! It's totally like your skin tone.   And mine, too! We are majorly skin-tone compatible, Troy.   My daughter.   Then maybe you should start answering to yourself!   By the end of summer, you'll have me playing like a pro.   If we live that long.   For you.   Cut!   Troy!   - Put it in forward. - It is!

Special thanks to

SergeiK

.

[ererigarbage]

You must remember, young thespians, learning is never seasonal.   So, do allow the shimmering lights of summer to refresh and illuminate   - your fertile young minds. - What's she talking about?   The future greets you with its magic mirror,   reflecting each golden moment, each emboldened choice.   Dude, Miss Darbus has snapped her cap.   Dude, you're actually listening?   Yes, Jason.   So, what was your favourite summer memory, Miss Darbus?   Summers have passed fleetingly since I was your age,   but I remember each with poignant clarity.   Summer. Summer.   Summer.   Summer.   - Summer. - Summer.   - Summer. - Summer.   - Summer. Summer. - Ashland Shakespeare Festival of...   - Summer. Summer. Summer. ...'88 leaps fondly to mind.   What time is it? Summertime   Hey It's our vacation   What time is it? Party time   That's right Say it loud   What time is it? The time of our lives   Anticipation   What time is it? Summertime   School's out Scream and shout   Finally summer's here   Good to be chilling out   I'm off the clock The pressure's off   Now my girl's what it's all about   Ready for some sunshine   - For my heart to take a chance - Oh, yeah   I'm here to stay, not moving away   Ready for a summer romance   Everybody's ready, going crazy Yeah, we're out   Come on and let me hear you say it now, right now   What time is it? Summertime   Hey It's our vacation   What time is it? Party time   That's right Say it loud   What time is it? The time of our lives   Anticipation   What time is it? Summertime   School's out Scream and shout   Goodbye to rules No summer school   I'm free to shop till I drop   It's an education vacation   And the party never has to stop   We've got things to do We'll see you soon   And we're really gonna miss you all   Goodbye to you and you   And you and you   Bye-bye until next fall   Everybody ready, going crazy yeah, we're out   Come on and let me hear you say it now, right now   What time is it? Summertime   Hey It's our vacation   What time is it? Party time   That's right Say it loud   What time is it? The time of our lives   Anticipation   What time is it? Summertime   School's out Scream and shout   No more waking up at 6:00 a.m.   'Cause now our time is all our own   Enough already, we're waiting Come on, let's go   Go out of control   All right   Everybody   Yeah   Come on   School pride, let's show it We're champions and we know it   Wildcats, yeah, are the best, yeah   Red, white and gold   When it's time to win, we do it   We're number one, we proved it   Let's live it up, yeah, party down   That's what this summer's all about   What time is it?   Summertime is finally here Yeah   Let's celebrate   We wanna hear you loud and clear now   School's out   We can sleep as late as we want to   It's our time   Now we can do whatever we wanna do   What time is it?   It's summertime   We'll be loving it   Come on and say it again now   What time is it?   It's party time Party time   Let's go and have the time of our lives   Let's go   Yeah   No, but seriously, guys, this summer I gotta make bank.   My parents keep talking about how much college is gonna cost.   Yeah, my folks are gonna match whatever I make,   but I gotta get hired first.   Me, too. I'm saving up for a car,   so I can take that little hottie on a proper date.   Gabriella.   I understand you've moved every summer for the past five years,   and I'd hate to think today is goodbye.   No worries. My mom promised I'm here until graduation next year.   Bless Mom's little heart.   Sharpay, we got off to a rough start, but you really came through.   I mean, you helped me with the winter musical.   I did?   Those vocal exercises?   See you.   Gabriella and I have had, like, five job interviews,   but we keep getting beat out by college kids.   Yeah, same here. I guess I'm back in the babysitting business.   Hey, Martha. Hey, Taylor.   Hey, Kelsi, what are you planning to do this summer?   Grow, write music. Grow.   Your summer activities consultant has arrived.   Hopefully some of those activities will include a job.   Hey, whatever happens, as long as we're together, it's cool, right?   You promise?   Here's my promise.   - "T" as in Troy? - Well, I... Yeah.   Hey, man, how's it going? There you go, boss.   Hoops. Let's go.   Yeah, sure, sure. We're not busy or anything. Let's go.   We could go to the movies, download music.   Oh, I'm definitely teaching you a twisted-flip on the skateboard.   Oh, and I have first-aid training, so I can patch myself up afterwards.   All right!   "Going to movies, listening to music.   "And, golly, Troy, I have first-aid training."   Oh, please.   Oh. Come here, Kelsi. I have a summer job for you.   At our country club.   Our rehearsal pianist is evidently moving.   Or hiding.   - Pardon? - Sounds great.   Cheer up, Shar, it's summer.   We can do whatever we want to. Everything changes.   Ryan, who's the absolute primo boy at East High?   I'd say Troy Bolton has that category pretty much locked up, don't you think?   And East High's primo girl?   - Just answer the question! - Gosh, you?   Troy, Sharpay. Sharpay, Troy. Sharpay...   Shar.   - It just makes sense. - Evidently not to Troy.   But it's summer, Ry. Everything changes.   What time is it? Summertime   Hey It's our vacation   What time is it? Party time   That's right Say it loud   What time is it? The time of our lives   Anticipation   What time is it? Summertime   School's out Scream and shout   Nice workout, fellas.   - I'm starving. - Me, too.   I'll tell you what. I'm seeing moves I didn't see last season.   - Keep it coming, guys! - Yeah. What team?   Wildcats!   All right!   Yo, time for milk.   - So, guys, how's the job hunt coming? - The big zero.   - Girlfriend alert. - Talk to me.   This is Thomas Fulton, General Manager   of Lava Springs Country Club here in Albuquerque.   I understand you've been looking for summer work.   Hey, Troy, does Gabriella still remember your name,   or did she find somebody new to karaoke with this summer?   That sounds fantastic, Mr Fulton. But how did you get my name?   Well, we've always had a student summer work programme   here at Lava Springs. So, are you ready?   Here's the thing. I know the most amazing girl... I mean, student.   Straight A's, quintuple straight A's,   and it would be so amazingly perfect if...   Man, he's really working someone.   It can't be Gabriella. Whenever she calls, he just blushes.   Yeah, I never said that.   Yes!   - What's up, dog? - Nothing. Nothing. Nothing!   Okay. I'll tell you what, you guys stick together this summer,   you work on the game, and we are talking back-to-back   - championships next fall. - Yeah!   Can we all redirect this energy by carrying in the groceries?   - Yes, Mrs Bolton. - Yes, Mrs Bolton.   Hey, we're kicking off another hot summer here in Albuquerque.   So, for those cool enough to have a convertible,   crank up the sound, breathe that fresh air,   and say hello to summer!   Miss Evans, Mr Evans, looking very sharp this summer.   Welcome back to Lava Springs.   Thank you, Charles.   Hi, boy!   Oh, can you find some shade for my car?   - Even if we have to plant a tree. - Fulton.   And may I say, welcome back.   It's good to be home.   Are the flyers ready?   This year we embossed the flyers for the show.   Inspired.   I plan to limit member talent auditions to 30 seconds each.   Amateur performers are very...   - Draining? - Yes.   Understood.   And should I...   We be so fortunate as to win the Star Dazzle Award again.   But where would we put it?   We're planning on expanding the trophy case.   The designs are in my office.   - Fulton, you are so efficient. - Well...   The staffing matter we discussed?   Done. With discretion.   Fabulous.   - Oh, stop it. Yes. Yes. - Ryan!   - Sharpay! - Girls.   Your chaise in its usual spot, Miss Evans?   Thank you, Javier.   Emma, Jackie and Lea, east of me.   Oh, and you'll be a prince to angle our chaises on the hour, as the sun moves.   Well, thanks to the kind words from your mother last season,   I've been promoted.   But, no worries, I'll make sure that the new lifeguard   is fully briefed on just how you like things.   So, what's the theme of the summer talent show, Sharpay?   - Redemption. - Love it.   It was a very trying year, ladies.   My drama department was invaded by outsiders,   singers coming from the chemistry lab and locker room. Shocking, really.   Sis, we've got the pool, the entire club, and the whole summer to enjoy it.   And the spa has been redone.   There's a guacamole facial and a seaweed body scrub on the menu.   What could be more fabulous?   - More ice. - Right away, Miss Evans.   It's out with the old And in with the new   Goodbye, clouds of grey Hello, skies of blue   A dip in the pool A trip to the spa   Endless days in my chaise The whole world according to moi   Excuse me.   Thank you.   Iced tea imported from England   Lifeguards imported from Spain   Towels imported from Turkey   And turkey imported from Maine   We're gonna relax and renew   You go do   I want fabulous That is my simple request   All things fabulous Bigger and better and best   I need something inspiring to help me get along   I need a little fabulous Is that so wrong?   Fetch me my Jimmy Choo flip-flops   Where is my pink Prada tote?   I need my Tiffany hair-band   Then I can go for a float   A summer like never before   I want more   She wants fabulous That is her simple request   All things fabulous Bigger and better and best   She needs something inspiring to help her get along   She needs a little fabulous Is that so wrong?   Fabulous pool   Fabulous splash   Read my lips.   Fabulous parties Even fabulous trash   Fabulous fashion   No.   Fabulous bling   Yeah.   She's got to have fabulous everything   Nothing to discuss   Everything's got to be perfect for...   Me!   She wants fabulous That is her simple request   All things fabulous Bigger and better and best   She needs something inspiring to help her get along   She needs a little fabulous Is that so wrong?   This won't do That's a bore   That's insulting I need more   I need, I need, I need I need, I need, I need   I need fabulous   I want fabulous   Fabulous hair, fabulous style   Fabulous eyes and that fabulous smile   Oh, I like what I see I like it a lot   Is this absolutely fabulous?   Fabulous, fabulous, fabulous   Absolutely.   Not.   Yeah!   I got you. I got you. It's okay.   - What are you doing here? - I'm the new lifeguard.   Wait, are you a member here?   I told you to hire Troy Bolton, not the entire East High student body!   You told me to hire Troy Bolton. "Whatever it takes."   Well, why didn't you warn me about the rest of them?   I did discuss the matter with the Lava Springs board, of course.   The board. You mean, our...   Mother!   Gabriella Montez and the Wildcats? Mother, how could you?   Think of your future, kitten.   These are your school chums, not the fuddy-duddy Lava Springs staff.   These are not my chums!   They'll steal my talent show.   And what fresh talent you'll have for your summer show.   Mother, did you hear what I just said?   Ryan, talk to Mother.   - Hi, Mom. - Ducky! How's my dashing boy?   Tell pumpkin if she worries too much, she'll get frown lines.   Namaste.   - I want them out! - But your mother specifically said...   Oh, don't mention that backstabbing yogini to me!   If you can't fire them, make them wanna quit.   I'm hoping Chef Michael's gonna teach me   the art of Austrian flake pastry.   And Sharpay's gonna be where I work every day.   How much better can summer get? Right? Right?   - A real dream come true. - Lf you actually get to know her,   - I mean she's... - Dude.   Hey, I didn't even know Sharpay's parents owned this place.   Mr Fulton just said, you know,   there's Wildcat fans at Lava Springs, and jobs are available.   So, I said let's go for it.   Inspiring, Mr Bolton. Truly inspiring.   However, what we're looking for from all of you,   is not inspiration, but perspiration.   Confirming assignments. Bolton, Danforth, waiters.   And, when needed, caddies.   What?   Miss McKessie, I'm told that you're efficient.   - Well... - Prove it.   You'll handle member activities. Keep me in sight at all times.   Kelsi, piano. Lunchtime and cocktail hour.   That means mood music, not new music.   Capisce?   Martha, chopping, cutting, preparing plates.   Do complete the summer with the equal amount of digits   I assume you currently possess.   Oh, Zeke, you will assist Chef Michael in the...   The promised land.   You hold on to that.   Mr Fulton, Your Excellency, sir,   would it be okay if we draw straws to see who has to wait on Sharpay?   Please, none of you will be waiting on Sharpay.   Oh, yes. Snap.   - You will be serving Miss Evans. - Who's that?   Always address our members as Mr, Mrs, or Miss. Let's practise.   - Do we have to? - Shall we?   "Miss Evans, would you care for lemonade?"   Actually, I'm not Miss Evans. I'm Jason.   - It smells so good and I am so hungry. - No, wait. You don't...   - No, no, no. - What's for lunch?   Miss Montez.   It would seem your lunch break does not start for 3.5 minutes.   I do hope no members drowned in your absence.   Henceforth, do clock in and out on time.   Three infractions of any kind, and your employment is terminated.   Capisce?   Chop, chop, chop.   - Okay, that man officially scares me. - Yeah.   Suddenly, I'm beginning to miss detention with Miss Darbus.   - How sick is that? - Come on.   We got a hoop out back, two free meals a day,   and we only have to wear these stupid outfits on duty.   All for one, and one for all. All right?   - This is our summer. Now, what team? - Wildcats!   - What team? - Wildcats!   Come on.   How did we get from the top of the world to the bottom of the heap?   I don't recall you mentioning the boss is such a creep   We still have the ingredients to make this summer sweet   Well, we got rags instead of riches   And all these dirty dishes   Just wish I had three wishes   Okay, guys, break it up.   We've got to work, work to work this out   We'll make things right The sun will shine   If we work, work, there'll be no doubt   We can still save the summer if we work this out   Dude, what have you gotten us into?   Come on. We can totally turn this thing around!   I'd rather face a seven footer straight up in the post   Yeah That sure beats hanging here   And burning someone's toast �� I needed Benjamins But this ain't worth the stress   Maybe there's a better way to fix this greasy mess   We're a champion team A well-oiled machine   And we've faced tougher problems than this   I know it's a grind But I'm sure we can find   A way to have fun while we get this job done   We've got to work, work to work this out   We'll make things right The sun will shine   We got to work, work There'll be no doubt   If we all come together We can work this out   Let's work it!   Tell me what you want   Tell me what you need   A little bit of sugar   A little bit of butter   It's the perfect recipe   Payday It'll taste so sweet   Payday Good enough to eat   Gonna make some motion pictures   Hit the mall with all my sisters   Get tickets to the Knicks and Sixers   Kick it with the music mixers   Buy a ride that suits my style   Lounge around the pool awhile   Make a date with my favourite girl   We've got it made   Whoa, we've got to work, work to work this out   We'll make things right The sun will shine   If we work, work, there'll be no doubt   We can still save the summer If we work this out   Work this Got to work this   We can work this out   So, can we work this out?   Yeah, we can work it out.   Send the waiters right in.   Miss me? Of course you did.   Hey, you ever been on a golf course?   We're employees, Troy. Not members. And I don't play golf.   Who said anything about golf?   Are you sure it's okay for us to be out here?   Yeah, unless the jackrabbits turn us in.   So, how's kitchen duty?   Oh, you know, the team that washes dishes together, wins together.   My mom said summer jobs look good on college applications.   All part of the frightening concept called "our future."   Are you worried?   Hey, college costs a fortune.   My parents are saving pennies, unlike the people at this place.   You're a cinch for a scholarship.   I'm only as good as whatever happens next season. It's...   I always liked the idea of being in charge of my future,   until it actually started happening.   So, let's just think about right now,   because I've never been in one place for an entire summer,   and this means a lot to me, especially being here with...   Such an outstanding peanut-butter and-jelly-sandwich maker like me?   I want to remember this summer, Troy.   - Here, catch. - Oh, I love this game.   - Ready? - Go.   - Beautiful. - Very nice! Oh. Your turn.   - You didn't catch a single one of them. - You...   That was so bad.   Fulton, when I was on the fourth fairway today,   it seemed bone dry.   Oh, no way!   Could you tell maintenance to give it a little extra splash?   No way!   - May I have this dance? - Why, of course you may.   Let's go then.   You are gonna get so wet!   Yeah!   Keep an eye on them tomorrow and keep me posted.   Why are you smiling?   No worries, Ryan. This is our turf, remember?   First a break-time infraction, now frolicking on the golf course.   We are not off to an auspicious start, are we, Miss Montez?   Actually, Mr Fulton, this was my idea, so she's...   How gallant, but irrelevant.   We won't allow this to happen again, will we?   Good morning, everybody.   - Good morning. - Good morning.   - Smells good. That smells good. - Hey, Martha.   - Hey. - Hey, Jason.   - Hey, morning. - What's up?   Yeah You are the music in me   - Sounding good, Kels. - Thanks.   Actually, I need to go get ready for the ladies' luncheon.   Won't exactly be rocking out.   You know, I am so excited about the club's talent show.   I mean, the employees get to do a number,   and I have ideas for everyone.   You guys can sing the lead,   and maybe Zeke and Chad can do backup,   and everyone can dance.   Big timeout on that one.   My singing career began and ended with the East High Winter Musical.   I'm just here to make a cheque and sneak in the pool after work.   That's... That's really it.   What was that you were playing a minute ago?   Oh, it's... It's nothing. It's just nothing.   What's this?   Well, I was thinking if you'd do the show,   that I wanted to be ready, and I wrote this for you guys.   Come on. Go.   Yeah   You are the music in me   You know the words "Once upon a time"   Make you listen, there's a reason   When you dream There's a chance you'll find   A little laughter, or happy ever after   You're harmony to the melody   That's echoing inside my head   A single voice above the noise   And like a common thread   You're pulling me   When I hear my favourite song I know that we belong   Oh, you are the music in me   Yeah, it's living in all of us   And it's brought us here because   Because you are the music in me   Yeah, yeah, yeah   You are the music in me   It's like I knew you before we met Can't explain it   There's no name for it   I sang you words I've never said   - And it was easy - So easy   Because you see the real me   As I am, you understand   And that's more than I've ever known, oh   To hear your voice above the noise   And know I'm not alone   Oh, you're singing to me   When I hear my favourite song I know that we belong   You are the music in me   It's living in all of us   And it's brought us here because   You are the music in me   Together we're gonna sing   We got the power to sing what we feel   Connected and real   Can't keep it all inside   Oh, yeah   Oh, yeah   - Oh, yeah - Yeah, yeah, yeah   You are the music in me   Oh, yeah   Oh, yeah   You are the music in me   When I hear my favourite song I know that we belong   We belong   You are the music in me   It's living in all of us It's brought us here because   You are the music in me   Oh yeah Oh yeah   You are the music in me   Yeah   - Oh, I love that song. - Great job, Kels.   Oh, I've got the talent show sign-up sheet right here. Are you in?   Maybe we can work this out, but only if we're all in this together.   Yeah!   This is going to be fantastic.   I'm going to coordinate rehearsal to coincide with all of our schedules.   Goldenthroat, this is Jazz Square. We may have trouble.   Now, it's an amazing song, but Kelsi didn't write it for us.   Hi, Mom.   - Seaweed scrub, darling? - Maybe later.   Ryan, it might be wonderful if Troy participates in our talent show.   What? If he sings with Gabriella   then our whole show is going to be the "Troy and Gabriella Show."   I'm not certain Gabriella is ideally suited   to help Troy realise his full potential at Lava Springs.   Mommy, what time is Daddy gonna be here?   We tee off at noon. Join us?   Love to.   Up. And how shall we get to the food today, sir?   - I don't know, perhaps skipping. - Very well then.   Shall we?   Hipty scouty, hipty skipty, hipty skipty, hipty skipty...   Danforth, Bolton, you're caddying today.   $40 a bag. You've been requested.   - What? - By who?   Dude, who cares? For $40, I'd caddy for Godzilla.   Close, very close.   Thank you.   - Thanks. - Thanks, man.   Hey, boys! So, Troy, I thought it was time for you to meet my parents.   Enchantée.   - Awesome. - Hi.   Hello.   So, where's your dad?   Hi, Daddy!   Where's the first tee and what's the course record?   I'm just kidding. I built the course myself and I hold the record,   but who's counting? Princess.   - Son, you've been working out. - Yoga.   Bring that around, there you go. Quite a season you boys had.   Oh, Troy played for the golf team, too, Daddy.   Oh, versatile. How about you, son?   - Baseball. Track and field. - Outstanding.   Might come in handy the way I play golf. Fair warning.   Fore!   - Brilliant, darling. Brilliant. - Lovely.   Chad, you'll be caddying for Mother. Troy, Daddy.   Daddy.   Bravo!   Brilliant. Let's take a walk.   - Is that a new outfit? - Yes, just this morning. And yours?   This old thing? I got it last week.   Come on, Chad.   What do you think?   Well, it's 190 to the pin, downhill lie, elevated green.   I'd go with a full five, sir.   Hi.   - Nice call. - All right.   Princess, grab your pitching wedge. This one's yours.   Thanks, Daddy.   Line it up.   That's my girl.   That girl needs to take up knitting.   Or some sport where she can only injure herself.   - I'm in the sand. - Me, too.   Knees, hips, shoulders, hat. Good. Drill it.   Backboard.   Yes!   That's my boy.   - Where... - I have no idea.   Gabriella! Dinner tonight? Sneak a swim?   Troy!   - Oh, lovely, darling. - Nice.   Daddy, why not let Troy try a shot?   - Of course. Of course. - No, I shouldn't.   - Come on. - Are you sure?   - Yeah! - Yes, sir.   - Are you sure it's okay, Mr Evans? - It sure is.   - Give it a ride. - Thank you.   - Here you go, Daddy. - Thank you, dear.   - That's a beautiful swing. - Really beautiful.   That is a beautiful swing.   - That was awesome. - Thanks, man.   - Come on! What do you say we... - What? I don't know.   Off we go.   I'm saving up for a car. I'm saving up for a car.   Well, Tiger Woods would have been proud to make that putt!   What a shame that Troy is only bussing dishes all summer,   given that he's a potential star for your alma mater, Daddy.   I've seen Troy play basketball.   I think the U of A Redhawks will be very interested in him.   That's inspired, Daddy. Troy is very concerned about college.   - Really? - Yeah.   - How's Coach Bolton these days? - Oh, fantastic.   Outstanding.   What?   Oh, next time I see Country Club Princess,   I'm gonna launch her and her pink cart straight into the lake.   I'll build the ramp, buddy.   Danforth, this is a kitchen, not a day spa.   You and Jason suit up for dinner duty in the dining room.   Bolton, you have five minutes to change and come with me.   In case you're not familiar with this particular item,   it goes around your neck,   like a dog collar.   Chop-chop.   - And she stepped on the ball. - I did not.   - Yes, you did. - I can believe that.   Hey! Here's our superstar. Troy Bolton, this is Peter.   - Peter. Good to meet you. - How are you?   - This is Claire. - Hello.   - And you know the family. - Hello.   This kid's pretty handy on the fairways as well as the hard court.   Bet you worked up yourself an appetite   lugging those bags all over the place, huh?   Yeah, yeah. A little bit.   What do you say we get some food, and we can talk about your future.   - My future? - Yeah, sit down.   Have a seat.   Daddy's on the board of directors at the University of Albuquerque.   So, Troy, I saw your championship game. I mean, wow!   That last-second shot at the buzzer... Outstanding.   Actually, my teammates here stole the ball,   otherwise I wouldn't have had a chance...   Oh, you're much too modest, Troy.   You were voted MVP for the entire season.   This shirt positively screams for a Windsor knot.   - Thank you. - Let me get that for you.   You know, we've got a heck of a basketball programme over at U of A,   and an excellent scholarship programme as well.   Scholarship?   Yeah. You know, between the two of us here,   we... We pull a little weight over at the school.   Well, time flies when you're having fun,   but Mr Fulton will probably want me clocking out.   Come on. Don't be silly.   You haven't had any dessert, and we haven't talked about golf, yet.   Oh, basketball and golf are just the beginning with Troy, Daddy.   Have you heard him sing?   Oh, triple threat.   Oh, how wonderful. Troy can participate in the talent show.   Oh, come on, Troy. Give them a sample. Kelsi!   Kelsi. No, actually my voice is...   Is feeling a little bit hoarse tonight, you know, all the talking.   But thank you very much for the food and the golf and everything.   It was amazing.   But you will sing some other time, though? With me. Promise?   - Promise. - Perfect.   Dessert?   Sorry I'm late! Give me two more minutes.   Nice tie. Your shoes don't match though. Kidding.   Honey, two minutes is being late, but an hour is approaching a felony.   Just because Troy's a nice guy, doesn't mean he's immune to boy disease.   Boy disease?   Yeah, forgetting things he shouldn't forget.   Oh, so now you're a boy expert?   My older sister has 10 rules about boy behaviour,   and nine of them involve boys forgetting things   they should never forget, like dinner dates.   Well, it wasn't an official date type of thing.   Rule number three, all dates are official,   whether the boy knows it or not.   - You're not done. - But I'm done for the day, sir.   And actually, I have a date.   Mr Bolton, you're under the mistaken impression   I'm interested in what you have to say. Just follow me.   - But I... - No more speaking.   - Hey, where are we going? - Please, Mr Bolton.   - How long is this gonna take? - Watch your step. Insurance issues.   I'm supposed to have a date tonight.   But the evening is young and so are you.   Well, where are we?   Hold your applause until the very end.   What the heck? Mr Fulton?   A long time ago In a land far away   Lived the pineapple princess, Tiki   She was sweet as a peach In a pineapple way   But so sad that she hardly speaky   Still, if you listen well You'll hear her secret wish   Aloha, everybody, my name is Tiki.   I long to free A truly remarkable fish   My sweet prince   Humu, humu, nuku, nuku, a pua'a   Makahiki malihini who   Humu, humu, nuku, nuku, a pua'a Ooh   Hawana waka, waka, waka Niki pu, pu, pu   Ryan, the fog!   She dreams of a boy Who is under a spell   That has left him all wet and scaly   I sing from my heart Of the power of love   Just a girl with a ukulele   - Come to me - Come to her   - My sweet one, and be still - Be still   I'll grasp your tail Then stroke each tender gill   My sweet prince   Humu, humu, nuku, nuku, a pua'a   Makahiki malihini who   Humu, humu, nuku, nuku, a pua'a Ooh   Hawana waka, waka, waka Niki pu, pu, pu   Now this is where we lead into the whole Kabuki thing.   The clouds turned grey And the big sky cried   And the ocean had a fit   Ryan! Where's my ocean?   Then the wind went whoosh And thunder cracked   And mighty Mount Fufu spit Mighty Mount Fufu spit   Tiki, Tiki Want to speaky, speaky, speaky   With the mighty spirit Fufu   Tiki, Tiki Want to speaky, speaky, speaky   - The words I will not mince - Word!   Please make a man Of my fresh fish prince   This is real fish talk. No lie.   And then the fish turns into a gorgeous prince and sings...   I'm Prince Humu Humu, nuku, nuku, a pua'a   No. No way.   Makahiki malihini who   With me.   Humu, humu, nuku, nuku, a pua'a   Hawana waka, waka, waka Niki pu, pu, pu   Everybody!   Humu, humu, nuku, nuku, a pua'a   Makahiki malihini who   Humu, humu, nuku, nuku, a pua'a   Hawana waka, waka, waka Niki pu, pu, pu   Waka, waka, waka Niki pu, pu, pu   Waka, waka, waka Niki pu, pu, pu   One minute.   We'll talk about this later.   So, you love it?   Look, you ever tried just singing?   I mean, without all the lights and sets and, like, backup people?   Well, it'd be much harder to get applause that way.   I'm not talking about applause.   I'm talking about hanging out with friends.   You know, doing nothing, and singing for fun.   Wait a minute. Not doing anything.   That might work. A dark stage, a single spotlight.   We break out of darkness into the circle of light.   - Wait, "we"? - No set, no frills.   - Oh, man. - Simple.   Dramatic. Just you and me.   That is such a great idea, Troy. We could do it at our club talent show.   Look, I'm here to work.   Sharpay, I already told you being onstage really is your thing,   it's not mine.   It could be our thing.   Time out on that one, okay? I've got an "our thing,"   it's with Gabriella, and... And I'm very late for her, so I got to go.   - But the show could be so amazing... - I love your shoes.   - You like them? - I really do.   I bought them in New York. I have them in nine colours.   Girls! Again from the top.   Hey, lifeguard!   You're crazy, Wildcat!   And so late, but I brought food, a few little candles.   I'm good for a poolside picnic. What do you say?   Zeke even made desserts. But first, I dare you to jump in.   You know we're not supposed to be in the pool. Club rules.   Cramp!   I need a lifeguard! Rescue me! Rescue me!   Here I come!   Thanks for coming in. Follow me.   Oh, listen.   You know, right now, with you,   it's finally starting to feel like summer.   Yeah, it is.   The water bugs are back.   Look, Mr Fulton, this was my idea, she had nothing to do with it.   I generously overlooked your previous break violation,   but then came the golf course jaunt,   and now this. Two strikes.   Don't get a third. Out of the pool.   Sharpay's dad let me play a few holes   and then invited me to dinner with some U of A alumni.   Really?   And they were talking about scholarships,   while Jason and Chad were, like, serving me.   And getting paid for it. It's called a job.   You were invited, nothing wrong with that.   Yeah. I don't know. It felt weird.   I love that you've got the team working together,   but you're not gonna be a Wildcat forever.   The team is now, and that's... It's good,   but everybody's got their own future.   I'm not sure I know what you mean.   Well, when you graduate,   lots of people are gonna be chasing the same opportunities.   There's nothing wrong with keeping your eye on the prize.   In fact, if you don't, you get left behind.   Yeah, I know, I'm just saying, I didn't get my friends jobs at the club   so they could sit and watch me eat in the dining room.   You know, I'm just saying never be ashamed of attention,   as long as you've earned it.   You know, a scholarship's special,   that's why there's only a few to go around.   Yeah, yeah. I get it, Dad.   Okay. So, how was the food at Lava Springs?   Insanely good.   - Take it out for a spin. - No way.   Well, you didn't think I was going to drive this heap, did you?   Yes! Yes!   Okay, bring those knees up as high as you can and circle those arms.   Hey, water bug. Last night was so fun.   I really didn't mean to get you in trouble.   Same here.   - So, maybe today we can have our... - Troy?   What time is your lunch break?   Troy!   - 1:30. - 1:30, great.   Free cheeseburgers are on me. Everybody looks great. Awesome job.   Okay, now, some jumping jacks.   Hey. What is she up to?   - Who knows? - Believe me, she does.   I'm sorry I'm late, Mr Fulton,   but about the pool thing last night, you can't blame Gabriella...   - I'm promoting you. - You're what?   There's an opening as an assistant to the golf pros.   Salaried job, no clocking in.   - But, I... - $500 a week, plus tips.   What? Per week?   Oh, my... That's off the hook! I think it sounds very manageable.   Shall we?   Bolton!   - Wait. So you want me to teach golf? - To kids. Oh, the joy.   - But, sir, I don't think I'm qualified. - Worry not.   Simply show the little angels which end of the club to hold,   tee the ball up, then duck.   In addition, the board is extending membership privileges to you.   You have complete use of club facilities, but do so prudently,   meaning, fellow Wildcats? Not.   Congratulations.   You'll find an appropriate choice of clothing here.   Do not mix checks with plaids, blue with browns,   and avoid wearing white socks at all cost.   Leave your shoes outside the locker,   they will be buffed and polished each evening.   Yes! Oh, man!   Save it for the first tee.   And to get there, this might come in handy.   That's the key to your golf cart. Number 14.   The same number that's on your basketball uniform, so I'm told.   Questions?   How did this happen?   It would seem that the Evans family thinks you have untapped potential.   Young man, the future is full of uncharted waters,   and this family has real clout, so I suggest you take the ride.   Yeah.   Italian.   Awesome, junior golfers! You guys look amazing!   Hey! Hey! Slow down, champ. Slow down.   Save some for the other kids. There you go.   Cool shorts, buddy.   All right. Hey. Hey, cutie. Try holding the club that way,   you're going to hit it way farther.   All right. Nice backswing, man. Nice backswing.   Good job, killer. Make the ball fear you.   You look good. Great job, everybody. Good job, guys!   - Bolton. Bolton. Your 11:30 is here. - Thanks, man.   Good luck, buddy.   Troy!   Oh, man.   - Cool balls. - Thanks.   You're welcome.   By the end of summer, you'll have me playing like a pro.   Yeah.   If I live that long.   I'm so excited about the show.   Oh, and don't worry. We'll find something great to do.   Look, Sharpay, I already told you, singing really isn't my thing.   And here's the best news, all the Redhawk boosters will be there.   - Really? - Of course.   We'll lock up your scholarship with a high "C" right from centre stage.   We're all in this together, right?   Your parents have been really, really nice, Sharpay,   but singing with you isn't a part of my job.   I know, just something you promised to do.   Remember?   You look fabulous in your new clothes, by the way.   - You like the shoes? They're Italian. - Nice.   Let me show you how this is done. It's really easy.   Just line up to your target. Nice, easy backswing.   - Hey, Gab. - Hey!   That girl's got more moves than an octopus in a wrestling match.   - Nah. He knows how to swim. - Yeah. Troy can handle himself.   I did overhear him asking her for her opinion   on his new Italian golf shoes.   He didn't ask me.   So, wake up, sister! She's basically offering him a college education   just to sing with her in the talent show.   - Troy would never do that. - You got eyes, use them.   - Let's go eat. - Yeah, I got to go. Hey, see you later?   - Okay. - Okay.   You're going to take it back and through.   - Troy, Fulton wants you in the lobby. - Fantastic. Thank you. See you.   And she steps on the ball.   - Troy Bolton. This is... - I've seen them all play at U of A.   Oh, all right. Well, come scrimmage at our gym.   It'll be good for your game.   - Play with you guys? - Yeah. Let's get down, bro.   - Awesome. - All right.   - Let's all get some awesome lunch. - Yeah.   I knew it! Coral blue!   It's perfect for your skin tone. And mine, too!   We are majorly skin-tone compatible, Troy.   - I have no idea what that means. - You don't need to. I'm here for you.   - Who's hungry? - Let's eat.   I mean, how can you hit the ball straight if your clubs don't trust you?   - That's the key. So, it's all in the grip. - Okay.   You got to hold it just right. That looks great.   Hey, I almost forgot.   I ordered Swiss on my burger.   So, go ahead and check it out, man. Try it. See what you think.   Danforth, table three needs more iced tea.   Now, rotate your hands over the top.   - Put your thumb on that side. - Okay.   There you go, man. You're good. I'll see you on the course.   - Yeah. Let's do it, man. - Yeah.   - Zeke! Troy wants Swiss. - Coming right up.   You know, you were right.   There's a guy out there that looks just like Troy Bolton,   but I have no idea who he really is.   Oh, hey. Kelsi's got some great new ideas   - to spice up the talent show. It's got... - I'm thrilled.   That new duet that Troy and Gabriella sang? I need it.   - Actually, it's not available. - Repeat.   Well, it's something I wrote for Troy and Gabriella,   just in case they decide to...   You're an employee, not a fairy godmother. Let's have it.   Transpose it into my key. Troy and I will be doing it in the talent show.   Oh, and brighten up the tempo. We'll need to keep people awake.   What about our song?   - What about Humu Humu? - Change in plans.   What am I supposed to do with my Tiki Warrior outfit?   Save it for Halloween, go to a luau, sell it online. I don't know!   But in the meantime, keep an eye on those Wildcats.   If they're planning on being in the show,   which I doubt, once they hear about Troy and me,   I don't want any surprises. Oh, and don't worry,   I'll find a song for you somewhere in the show.   - Or the next show. - Really?   Don't strain yourself, slick.   Entertainers are so temperamental. Transpose!   Look at you.   - Go, team. - Yeah. It's a gift from the guys.   The "guys"? Oh, you mean all those tall people?   Yeah. Yeah. Hey, look. I got to go in a minute,   but I'll be back in about an hour. I'll pick you up in my new truck   and we'll go to a movie. I promise.   "Promise" is a really big word, Troy.   Yeah. I know.   And we've got the staff baseball game after work.   Remember, you "promised" that you'd play?   Right. Right. Baseball. I will absolutely meet you there.   - You forgot, didn't you? - No. I just got the date mixed up.   And I'm sorry I couldn't make lunch today. I just...   It's been wild, you know?   I can't believe how things are working out here.   So I see. Italian golf shoes, new clothes, golf carts.   That's crazy stuff. Hard to keep track of it all, I bet.   So, what's your point?   It just doesn't seem like new stuff, it seems like a new Troy.   All right, let's see if Tiger Woods still has a jump shot.   - Hey, hey, Bolton! Come on! - Hey!   Why don't you tell them to come over here and mix it up?   We'll show them some game.   You know, I don't think that's how they roll.   That's not how they "roll"?   No, no, no, that's not what I meant. I just think it's a closed practice. Sorry.   Wow. Well, maybe you can get us a video?   Bolton, come on!   But yesterday you said we were going to play two-on-two after work,   - before the baseball game. - I know. I know, man. I'm sorry.   Come on, Zeke, that was so yesterday. You know, when we were all on a team!   - Hey, man. - Hey, how's it going?   Hey, Bolton! That's my ball.   - Here we go! - How's it going, guys?   Would you guys be mad at me if I ask him to get me   one of those cool Redhawk jackets?   Hey. Come on.   I'm so excited about the game. It's going to be so cool.   Hey, Ryan. No rehearsals?   My sister is working up something new.   So, you coming to the baseball game?   I'm not staff. Wasn't invited.   Hey, everyone's invited. Come on. Hop in.   All right.   Hold on!   All right! Right here!   Beep, beep!   Beep, beep!   What, did Fulton send you out here to spy on us?   Nah, my sister did.   She thinks you guys are going to upstage her talent show.   Oh, no worries. We were going to do the show,   but then Troy bailed on us, so, whatever.   What do you mean "whatever"? It's our summer, remember?   I thought we decided doing the show would be fun.   - Well, I think so. - Me, too.   - Who are we kidding? - I don't think so.   We don't know how to put together a show.   No, but he does.   If we have a real director putting it together, it could be great.   Have the employees ever won a Star Dazzle Award?   - Hey, now... - I know what you can do, Ryan,   - so why not do it for us? - All right, look,   if you want to play ball, then grab a mitt, but I don't dance.   You don't think dancing takes some game?   - You got game? - A little.   Yes!   Hey, pitcher. Ball.   All right! Let's hustle! Come on! Wildcats!   Get your head in the game!   Hey! Oh! Play ball   Hey, hey!   Hey, batter batter, hey, batter batter Swing   I've got to just do my thing   Hey, batter batter, hey, batter batter Swing   Yeah   I'll show you that it's one and the same Baseball, dancing, same game   It's easy Step up to the plate, start swinging   I want to play ball now and that's all   This is what I do It ain't no dance that you can show me   Hey, hey, hey   - Yeah - You'll never know   - Oh, I know - lf you never try   There's just one little thing that stops me every time   - Yeah - Come on!   - I don't dance - I know you can   - Not a chance - No   - lf I can do this, well, you can do that - But I don't dance   - Hit it out of the park - I don't dance   - I say you can - There's not a chance   - Oh - Slide home, you score   Swinging on the dance floor   I don't dance, no   Hey, batter batter, hey, batter batter Swing   I've got to just do my thing   Hey, batter batter, hey, batter batter Swing   Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah   Two stepping, now you're up to bat Bases loaded, do your dance   It's easy, take your best shot Just hit it   I've got what it takes playing my game   So, you better spin that pitch you're gonna throw me   - Yeah - I'll show you how I swing   - You'll never know - Oh, I know   If you never try   There's just one little thing   - That stops me every time - Yeah, come on   - I don't dance - I know you can   - Not a chance - No, no   If I can do this Well, you can do that   - But I don't dance - Hit it out of the park   - I don't dance - I say you can   There's not a chance Oh no   Slide home, you score Swingin' on the dance floor   I don't dance no   Lean back, tuck it in, take a chance   Swing it out, spin around do the dance   I wanna play ball not dance hall I'm makin' a triple not a curtain call   I can prove it to you till you know it's true   'Cause I can swing it I can bring it to the diamond too   You're talkin' a lot Show me what you got   Stop Swing   Hey Swing it like this   Yeah oh   - Swing - Come on   - Jitterbug - Just like that oh   That's what I mean That's how you swing   You make a good pitch but I don't believe   - I say you can - I know I can't   I don't dance   You can do it   I don't dance, no   Nothin' to it Atta boy, Atta boy, yeah   Hey, batter batter, hey, batter batter What   One, two, three, four Everybody, swing, come on   - I don't dance - I know you can   Not a chance No, no   If I can do this Well, you can do that   But I don't dance   Hit it out of the park   - I don't dance - I say you can   There's not a chance No, no   If I can do this Well, you can do that   But I don't dance   Hit it out of the park   - I don't dance - I know you can   Not a chance No, no   If I can do this Well, you can do that   But I don't dance   Hit it out of the park   - I don't dance - I say you can   - There's not a chance - Oh   Slide home, you score Swinging on the dance floor   I don't dance, no   Safe!   That's it!   It's okay!   Hey, Evans.   I'm not saying I'm going to dance in the show,   but if I did, what would you have me do?   Hey! Get back, get back!   Here we go, here we go! Defence, hold him tight!   Oh, dang!   This kid's good. I like what I'm seeing.   Troy gives 110, 24l7, that you can count on.   Here we go!   - Game. Game. - Good game!   Was I right?   Great.   All right, so you call that a "little" game?   Little League. World Series. Newport, Rhode Island.   Champions.   - Good job! - Nice hat.   - You're so awesome. - Hey.   What can I say?   - Troy, you ready to run it back? - Let's run it, man.   - All right. Let's go, yo. - Let's go.   Let's go, yo, let's go. Let's run it back.   - Looking good. - Wow, Wildcat!   - Too much? - Only in daylight.   - Yeah. - East High colours, very impressive.   - Hey. Be true to your school, right? - Absolutely.   Everyone's excited about doing the show.   Hey, I know everyone thinks that I'm Sharpay's poodle,   - but I really think that I could... - Hey.   If they were thinking that, they're not thinking that today.   How do you do that swing-step you did last night?   That's easy.   Hey.   - Hey. - Hey.   So, I called last night. I got hung up at the gym.   Hey, my dad says you're doing great with those college guys.   Oh. Yeah. They're awesome.   Playing with them is like being in another world.   Well, you missed out on a fun night. It was a great game.   But the dessert afterwards had to be the best part.   Her mom makes the best brownies   - in the entire world. - Yeah, I know. I've had them.   Well, I'll see you guys later.   Hey, LeBron, how'd it go with the Redhawks?   You know, they're very tall.   We got Vince from maintenance to play, so it worked out.   - In case you were wondering. - Maybe we could play later today.   I don't know. Check with Vince.   Well, Mr Evans set up the workout, not me.   Did you even ask to include us, Captain?   I didn't go looking for the Redhawks, the Redhawks came to me. Okay?   I didn't sign up for this golf job, Fulton offered it. I said yes.   My decision. But I show up to work same as you, so chill, man.   You get a speck of dirt on your pants,   - and someone dry cleans you. - And you wouldn't do the same thing...   - lf I was as good as you? - I did not say that.   - You didn't have to! - And neither did you!   You know what? We didn't vote you captain because of your jump shot.   Okay, we did it because you're the guy who usually knows what's up.   - But I guess things change. - You think you got me all figured out?   Well, I don't think so. And I don't answer to you.   Then maybe you should start answering to yourself!   Look, we have been like brothers since pre-school.   If I don't know who you are these days, then who does?   Excuse me. You're all being paid to work, not play Dr Phil. Chop-chop.   Table settings, nice. Oh. No, no.   No. No. No. Now, that? Fabulous.   Troy!   Daddy will make certain the entire scholarship committee is right here.   Perfect view.   I've already spoken to your mother.   They're going to be sitting at a table right next to ours.   It's going to be a fabulous evening.   - Come on. - Great.   Rehearsal, everyone!   - Taylor, I'm signing off on everything. - Fabulous!   - Thank you, Mrs Evans. - Good job.   Look, Sharpay. I know I promised I'd do this, but just take it easy on me.   I'm kind of new to the whole performing thing.   Five, six, seven, eight!   You are the music in   You are the music in Are the music in   You know the words "Once upon a time"   Makes you listen, there's a reason   And when you dream there's a chance you'll find   A little laughter, or happy ever after   You're harmony to the melody   That's echoing inside my head   A single voice   Above the noise   Like a common thread Sing it to me   When I hear my favourite song I know we belong   'Cause you are the music in me   It's living in all of us   It's here Because you are the music in me   You are the music in   You are the music in Are the music in   Harmony to the melody   Echoing inside my head   When I hear my favourite song I know we belong   'Cause you are the music in me   It's living in all of us   It's here Because you are the music in   Me, me, me, me, me   You are the music in   You are the music in me   Yeah, yeah   Oh, yeah   Great job! One second.   Great rehearsal!   Everybody break!   You know, Troy, I've always known you were special.   And it's pretty obvious I'm special, too.   I think we were meant to sing together, don't you?   I need some air.   Don't be long! We're going to run it again!   Show me what you got!   Come on, everybody! Here we go!   You're up! You're up! You're up first!   Here we go! Give it to me!   Come on! Oh, yeah!   You got it! Here we go! Pass it to me!   Come on, let's dance!   You're up! You're up!   Let's show them what we got!   Come on! All right!   Oh, cut that! Get out of here!   - You got it! Hey. - Good job!   - Thank you. - You're welcome.   I said keep an eye on them, not turn them into the cast of Grease!   Pretty cool, huh?   Do you want us to lose the Star Dazzle Award to a bunch of dishwashers?   Us? Well, I guess that's showbiz.   When did you become one of them?   You know, I'll take that as a compliment.   But you and Troy have a good show, sis.   Oh, we plan to.   Give me a beat.   The Midsummer's Night Talent Show means something to me,   - and to my family. - Well...   Those Wildcats will turn it into a farce.   I'm... Your brother is one of "those Wildcats," I'm told.   Oh, don't you mention that traitor to us.   Employee involvement in the show is a tradition here.   Traditions change. My parents have important guests coming.   We'll need every employee working the party, and not on stage.   Pardon moi, but we're not just talking about employees,   we're talking about your classmates. You might want to think this one out.   All right.   Done. Now do it.   - Hi, Taylor. - Hi.   Distribute these in the staff area, but not until the end of shift.   - What? Wait! Mr Fulton... - No discussion, Miss McKessie.   This is a business. Welcome to the world of adults   who wish to keep their jobs because they have mortgages they wish to pay,   tuition bills, car payments, et cetera, et cetera, et cetera.   So, sometimes, we have to perform tasks, however unpleasant,   that are necessary for that all-too-important paycheque   to land in our all-too-empty pockets!   - May I get you a cup of tea, Mr Fulton? - Chamomile would be lovely.   - Go, Martha! Go, Martha! - Go, Martha! Go, Martha!   May I have your attention, please?   You guys, I need to make an announcement.   All junior staffers will be required to work on show night.   - What? - Yeah, it says,   "No staff participation in the show will be allowed. No exceptions."   - No show? - There's a show. We're just not in it.   That's great.   I'm sorry, you guys. There's nothing we can do about it. It's Fulton's orders.   There's no way this is Fulton's idea.   Unless Fulton suddenly has blonde hair and wears designer flip-flops.   Excuse me.   - Totally! - Sharpay!   Forget about the rest of us, how about the fact   that your brother has worked extremely hard on this show?   Oh, boo-hoo. He'll be in the show. He'll do his celebrity impersonations.   And don't lecture me about Ryan,   given the way you've been interfering with Troy's future.   What?   You've gotten him written up by Fulton for sneaking on the golf course,   swimming after hours. I had to step in just to save Troy's job.   I'm not interested in what you think you're doing for Troy.   That's between you and him. But you're messing with my friends,   my summer, and that's not okay with me.   You don't like the fact that I won.   What's the prize? Troy? The Star Dazzle Award?   You have to go through all of this just to get either one?   No, thanks, Sharpay.   You're very good at a game that I don't want to play,   so I'm done here.   But you better step away from the mirror   long enough to check the damage that will always be right behind you.   Girls!   Hey. What do you mean you're done here?   I mean, you can't quit.   Us working together sounded good, but plans change and people change.   The club talent show is a big deal for Sharpay,   and evidently for your future, so it's cool.   Just make it happen.   - Wear your new Italian shoes. - Hey, I'm still me.   Blowing off your friends, missing dates?   - Lf that's you, it's good to know. - No, no, no, no, no.   I was only doing that because I'm working on the scholarship thing.   You know that.   But if along the way you act like someone you're not,   pretty soon that's who you become.   I meant what I said about movies and summer and just being together.   I'm sure you did, at the time.   But I also meant what I said, that I want to remember this summer.   But not like this, Troy.   I gotta say what's on my mind   Something about us doesn't seem right these days   Life keeps getting in the way   Whenever we try   Somehow the plan is always rearranged   It's so hard to say But I gotta do what's best for me   You'll be okay   I've got to move on and be who I am   I just don't belong here I hope you understand   We might find a place in this world someday   But at least for now I gotta go my own way   Don't wanna leave it all behind   But I get my hopes up   And I watch them fall every time   Another colour turns to grey   And it's just too hard to watch it all Slowly fade away   I'm leaving today 'Cause I gotta do what's best for me   You'll be okay   I've got to move on and be who I am   I just don't belong here I hope you understand   We might find our place in this world someday   But at least for now I gotta go my own way   What about us?   What about everything we've been through?   What about trust?   You know I never wanted to hurt you   What about me?   What am I supposed to do?   - I gotta leave, but I'll miss you - I'll miss you   Oh, so   I've got to move on and be who I am   Why do you have to go?   I just don't belong here I hope you understand   I'm trying to understand   We might find a place in this world someday   - But at least for now - I want you to stay   I gotta go my own way   I've got to move on and be who I am   What about us?   I just don't belong here I hope you understand   I'm trying to understand   We might find our place in this world someday   But at least for now I gotta go my own way   I gotta go my own way   I gotta go my own way   You're usually taking these right off the grill.   Maybe I've been eating too much at the club.   You've barely been out of this room the last three or four days.   - Let's call the guys, get a game going. - They wouldn't come even if I called.   I find that hard to believe.   Dad, do I seem different to you this summer?   You dress a lot better, that's for sure.   Oh, man, I'm serious. Maybe my friends are right,   maybe I'm turning into a jerk with new shoes.   New shoes, not a new kid. Where's this coming from?   I've been so focused on my future.   I mean, Gabriella quit. Chad won't talk to me.   I don't see the Wildcats running around here.   Is this about going after what you want?   Yeah, Dad. The scholarship's important. I get it.   Hey, hey.   Look, it's only a big deal if it makes sense to you.   I don't even know who I am any more.   You know what?   I've known this kid for a long, long time.   And I got a lot of faith in him. He looks a lot like you.   I'm absolutely sure he's going to figure out the right thing to do.   It's so good. I cannot wait.   Yeah, I'm eating so much breakfast,   I won't be able to eat my dinner at night.   Oh, yeah. It's okay, Ryan's gonna help.   - I don't know. - We'll get it eventually.   Excuse me.   Everybody's always talking at me   Everybody's trying to get in my head   I wanna listen to my own heart talking   I need to count on myself instead   - Did you ever - Lose yourself to get what you want?   - Did you ever - Get on a ride then wanna get off?   Did you ever   Push away the ones you should've held close?   Did you ever let go? Did you ever not know?   I'm not gonna stop, that's who I am   I'll give it all I got, that is my plan   Will I find what I lost? You know you can   Bet on it, bet on it, bet on it, bet on it   Bet on me   I wanna make it right, that is the way   To turn my life around Today is the day   Am I the type of guy who means what I say?   Bet on it, bet on it, bet on it, bet on it   How will I know if there's a path worth taking?   Should I question every move I make?   With all I've lost, my heart is breaking   I don't want to make the same mistakes   Did you ever   Doubt your dream will ever come true?   Did you ever   Blame the world but never blame you?   - I will never - Try to live a lie again   I don't wanna win this game if I can't play it my way   I'm not gonna stop, that's who I am   I'll give it all I got, that is my plan   Will I find what I lost? You know you can   Bet on it, bet on it, bet on it, bet on it   I wanna make it right, that is the way   To turn my life around Today is the day   Am I the type of guy who means what I say?   Bet on it, bet on it, bet on it, bet on it   Oh, hold up   Gimme room to think Bring it on down   Gotta work on my swing Gotta do my own thing   Hold up   It's no good at all to see yourself   And not recognise your face   Out on my own It's such a scary place   The answers are all inside of me   All I got to do is believe   I'm not gonna stop, not gonna stop till I get my shot   That's who I am, that is my plan We'll end up on top   You can bet on it, bet on it bet on it, bet on   You can bet on it, bet on it, bet on it Bet on me   I wanna make it right, that is the way   To turn my life around Today is the day   Am I the type of guy who means what I say?   Bet on it, bet on it, bet on it You can bet on me   This way.   What do you mean you're not doing the show?   - Exactly that. - We're singing a duet, Troy!   A duet means two people.   Well, mostly me in this case, but whatever! Duet!   I'm an employee. Employees aren't allowed in the show.   No, no, no, no. No, no. You're an honorary member.   Not any more.   - I asked Fulton for my kitchen job back. - What?   Sharpay, I don't like the way you've been treating my friends.   And I don't like the way I've been treating them either,   so I'm doing something about it.   An entire table of University boosters are coming to see you, thanks to me.   So, I'll be their waiter. They'll be thrilled.   Troy, Troy. This could change your life!   I'm more interested in about what my friends think of me,   and what I think of myself.   Oh, we could all hold hands around the campfire some other time!   Right now we've got a show to do.   No. You've got a show to do. I got a kitchen to clean.   It's okay.   Kelsi, find Ryan.   Welcome this evening. You'll be seated at table 21.   Kelly, will you escort them, please? Excellent.   Ladies, you look gorgeous   - this evening. Beautiful. - And now, returning with   a abridged version of last year's tap-dancing epic,   Tina and her Tippety-Tappity Toes!   There you are! Thank goodness you've come to your senses.   Plug in the volcano. Humu Humu is back on.   Enjoy your pineapple on your own, sis. I'm not doing the show.   What? Oh, put some fresh batteries in your Tiki Warrior costume   - and let's get going! - Took your advice. Sold it online.   You've always wanted the spotlight. Now you've got it. Break a leg.   The curtain's up. Showtime!   Kelsi told us what went down between you and Sharpay.   I'm more interested in what went down between me and you, man.   - I was a jerk. - Yeah.   But, hey, brothers fight.   And they're still brothers.   All right!   Guys, I messed up your show and I'm sorry.   Yeah, because show business is our entire lives, right?   Hey, I hope you haven't permanently filled my spot in the two-on-two game.   And, Ryan, I know how hard you must've worked on this show.   Making these Wildcats look good couldn't have been easy.   - Hey. - So, I apologise.   Hey, the truth is, we've all had a lot of fun.   At least, I have.   Hey, you gotta see this dude play baseball.   I'm looking forward to it.   - All right! - Yeah!   Troy, listen, all these people out there,   I don't really want to see my sister crash and burn.   At least, I think I don't. I think you should sing with her.   My life is over. I've been a good girl.   I've never lied, except when necessary.   I always bought my parents expensive gifts,   using their credit card, of course. But I don't deserve this humiliation!   You need to get out there. Mrs Hoffenfeffer and her sock puppet   are stinking up the premises.   Well, the only thing that would make it any lovelier would be   that if I won that Star Dazzle Award! Sharpay, I'm going to find you.   That award, I tell you, it's mine! Mine! Mine!   Mirror, mirror on the wall. Who's the... Oh, forget it.   How's your show going?   How's it going?   My show makes the captain of the Titanic   look like he won the lottery.   - I'll sing with you, Sharpay. - What?   I promised. And I keep my promises.   But what was the first thing you said to me when I started working here?   - Bring me more iced tea? - Think harder. We're...   - All in this together. - Exactly.   Well, we are.   So, let's get out there and knock them dead, Troy Bolton!   I do the show if the Wildcats do the show.   And I'd think fast.   I just sort of wish you were doing this for me.   You're a good guy, Troy.   And actually, right now, I think I like you better than I like myself.   Did I just say that?   Girls! Places!   - Okay. Everyone. Ryan, the show's on. - Where's the music? Where's Troy?   Talked to Sharpay, everything's cool.   Hey, speaking of my sister, she wants you to learn a new song.   Everyday. I can't learn a new song!   - Kelsi will help you with it. - What?   - It's showtime! - Yeah!   - What team? - Wildcats!   - What team? - Wildcats!   - What team? - Wildcats!   Once in a lifetime   And now it's time for our five-time   Star Dazzle Award winner, Miss Sharpay Evans,   singing this year with our assistant golf pro, Mr Troy Bolton.   Where is Troy?   - Hey. Why did you switch songs? - Switch songs? What?   - Yeah, Ryan said... - Bolton!   - But I didn't learn a new song. - Exactly.   Girls!   Once in a lifetime   Means there's no second chance   So I believe that you and me   Should grab it while we can   Make it last forever   And never give it back   It's our turn and I'm loving where we're at   Because this moment's really all we have   Every day of our lives   Wanna find you there Wanna hold on tight   Gonna run   While we're young And keep the faith   Every day   From right now   Gonna use our voices and scream out loud   Take my hand   Together we will celebrate   Celebrate   Oh, every day   They say that you should follow   And chase down what you dream   But if you get lost and lose yourself   What does it really mean?   No matter where we're going   Oh, yeah, it starts from where we are   There's more to life   When we listen to our hearts   And because of you I've got the strength to start   Yeah, yeah, yeah   Every day of our lives   Wanna find you there Wanna hold on tight   Gonna run   While we're young And keep the faith   Oh, every day   From right now   Gonna use our voices and scream out loud   Take my hand   Together we will celebrate   Oh, every day   We're taking it back We're doing it here together   It's better like that And stronger now than ever   We're not gonna lose   'Cause we get to choose That's how it's gonna be   Every day of our lives   Wanna find you there Wanna hold on tight   Gonna run   While we're young And keep the faith   Keep the faith   Every day of our lives   Wanna find you there Wanna hold on tight   Gonna run   While we're young And keep the faith   Oh, yeah   - Every day - Every day   From right now   Gonna use our voices and scream out loud   - Take my hand - Take my hand   Together we will celebrate   - Every day - Oh, every day   Oh, oh, every day   Oh, every day   Every day   - Oh, yeah, yeah - I'm singing every day   Every day   Every day   Every day   Every day   Every day   Every day   Yeah   Just fabulous! Fabulous!   Well. If you'll all please take your seats.   I have one last task to perform this evening.   The Star Dazzle for this year goes to, of course, our one and only...   My brother, Ryan Evans!   That's our boy!   Fix the hat.   Yeah   You are the music in me   You know the words "Once upon a time"   Make you listen   there's a reason   When you dream There's a chance you'll find   A little laughter, or happy ever after   You're harmony to the melody   That's echoing inside my head   A single voice above the noise   - Here's to the future. - No. Here's to right now.   And like a common thread   You're pulling me   When I hear my favourite song I know that we belong   Oh, you are the music in me   Yeah, it's living in all of us   And it's brought us here because   - Because you are the music in me - Because you are the music in me   Yeah, yeah, yeah   You are the music in me   When I hear my favourite song I know that we belong   You are the music in me   It's living in all of us   And it's brought us here because   You are the music in me   You are the music in me   One, two, three, four   The summer that we wanted   Yeah, we've finally got it   Now's the time we get to share   Each day we'll be together   Now until forever   So everybody everywhere   Let's take it to the beach Take it there together   Let's celebrate today 'Cause there'll never be another   We're stronger this time We've been there for each other   Everything's just right   Everybody, all for one   Our real summer has just begun   Let's rock and roll, and just let go   Feel the rhythm of the drums   We're gonna have fun in the sun   Now that all the hard work Work is done   Everybody one for all And all for one   - All for one - All for one, one   Summertime together   Now we're even closer   That's the way it's meant to be   Oh, we're just getting started   Come and join the party   You deserve it same as me   Let's take it to the beach Take it there together   Let's celebrate today 'Cause there'll never be another   We're stronger this time We've been there for each other   Everything's just right   Everybody, all for one   Our real summer has just begun   Let's rock and roll, and just let go   Feel the rhythm of the drums   We're gonna have fun in the sun   Now that all the hard work Work is done   Everybody one for all And all for one   Everybody up   Everybody rock it   Take it from the top   And never ever stop it   It's not about the future   It's not about the past   It's making every single day Last and last and last   Fun and sun What could be better?   Let's have fun Everyone together now   Everybody, everybody now   This is where our summer really begins   The very last time it's ever gonna be like this   It's a party you don't wanna miss   Guys, show them we can make some moves, hey   Girls, show them we know how to groove, oh   - Here - And now   - Let's turn the party - Out   Everybody jump in   Everybody, all for one   Our real summer has just begun   Let's rock and roll, and just let go   Feel the rhythm of the drums   We're gonna have fun in the sun   Now that all the hard work Work is done   Everybody one for all   Everybody, all for one   Let's rock and roll, and just let go   Feel the rhythm of the drums   We're gonna have fun in the sun   Now that all the hard work Work is done   Come on, everyone, let's dance   We can't let the moment pass   Let's make the party last   All for one   All for one   Yeah!   Coral blue! It's totally like your skin tone.   And mine, too! We are majorly skin-tone compatible, Troy.   My daughter.   Then maybe you should start answering to yourself!   By the end of summer, you'll have me playing like a pro.   If we live that long.   For you.   Cut!   Troy!   - Put it in forward. - It is!

Special thanks to

SergeiK

.