Keeping Fantasia: The Third Book of the Fantasia Series

Chapter 98: Meeting Melody

Chapter 98: Meeting Melody

Oddly enough, Melody was not excused from school that day.

There really wasn't any point. Classes were nearly over and Headmaster Mickey wanted to have a long talk with Melody in his office.

Normally Melody would have objected. Long talks with Headmaster Mickey = a one way ticket to Snore Town.

However, today Headmaster Mickey's frustratingly- drawn-out logic was welcomed. Melody's boundless energy had reached it's quota for the day and she was "over it." Her teenage brain was craving a clear explanation. 

So she and Headmaster Mickey talked.

And talked.

And talked.

Ariel and Jim waited outside his office until Melody was ready.

Then they took her home.

That is...once they figured out transportation...

The solar surfer was severely overheated, so Ariel did what any stranded daughter would do.

She called her father.

Neither Jim nor Melody were thrilled about hitching a ride with Admiral Triton, but their sentiment was nothing compared to the icy reception Sarah gave him.

"Restrained as always, Admiral." Sarah opened the oversized humvee. "Melody -- out you go. We have a party to plan. Ariel and Jim – Wendy sends her apologies but she had to leave for Michaleen's appointment. Admiral Triton – "

Sarah flipped the door shut. "You're trespassing on my property. Thank you and goodbye."

"Hmph!" Petty Officer Sebastian scowled as Sarah followed Melody into the house. "Good riddance! Let's be gone Admiral before she issues another court order!"

Admiral Triton did not comment. With nothing more than a sour glance, he took Ariel's hand. "Enjoy Melody tonight. I'll keep an eye on Jak."

Ariel wove her arms through the window. "Thanks Daddy."

As they hugged, Jim couldn't help but feel guilty. Sarah hadn't even prompted Melody to say goodbye to her grandfather. 

Clearly there was animosity between them, but Admiral Triton was still family, so Jim decided to resolve it later. Moreover – the discord was hurting Ariel.

Admiral Triton seemed no worse for wear. Stroking Ariel's chin, he nodded once at Jim, then drove away.

"Okay." Ariel shouldered her trident. "On with the party?"

Jim took Ariel's hand. "On with the party."

The party was a little delayed. Melody disappeared into her room first.

Sarah advised they not disturb her, saying "She's getting things ready." After a wink, she clarified, "It's all about the drama. Trust me, Melody will be down when she's ready. Let's start the pizza bagels."

Like clockwork, Melody appeared just as the aroma of pizza bagels wafted through the house. She'd changed into a cream hoodie (cropped at her belly button), coral pink tights, and converse sneakers. Her hair sat on the top of her head like a rainbow pineapple, fastened with a million butterfly clips.

Jim eyed Melody's outfit.

"Not a word." Sarah murmured as they sat around the table. "She's dressing up for you."

Jim pursed his lips. He didn't love the bare mid-drift. Ariel on the other hand, seemed impressed by Melody's style.

"Neat hoodie." she complimented. In the corner, her trident spewed a stream of nervous bubbles. "I love that crop tops are back."