Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Local celebrity, Baby Brent sat on the table with the Sardine Mascot’s, beside the popular girls, Brent tried his best to flirt with them only to be ignored as the girls talked about fashion and the latest gossip.

On the opposite side of the hall, Flint and Sam sat on a small table on their own.

“What delightful sandwich do I have today?” Sam frowned as she opened her lunch box and was disappointed by the sight of her lunch. “Oh great... Sprout sandwich again.”

“Wanna Sardine sandwich?” Flint asked lifting up the slimy sardine from the sandwich and dangling it in front of Sam’s face. Sam grimaced pushing the Sardine away. “I take that as a no then.” He took a bite from the sandwich watching Sam open her notebook which was covered in weather stickers.

“So, how`s your report going?” Flint asked.

“Not great... There aren't any stories worth talking about.” Sam frowned. “Every story I get is from Mayor Shelbourne and it is all about him and Gil.”

“You have a point.” Flint gasped. “How about I invent you something to talk about?!”

“That`s not such a bad idea, Flint!”

“To the lab!!” Flint exclaimed excitedly and took off leaving his lunch behind. Sam watched as he disappeared.

(Scene change)

Mr. Earls classroom

Mr. Earl started reading out the class registration and got to Flint`s name glancing up when there was no reply from the young inventor.

“Flint Lockwood!?” Earl shouted, his chest hair tingling as he realized Flint was nowhere to be seen.

“Oh, Mr. Earl!” Sam called out from behind her desk, as she got out her notebook and pencil case. “Flint had to go home for something, I'm sure he will be back soon.”

“He went home?” Earl demanded. “He is supposed to be in school and knows never to be late to Earl Devereaux`s class!”

“Nobody needs Nerdwood anyways.” Brent said sarcastically as Sam scowled at him, the rest of the class laughing.

“Silence!” Earl demanded, looking pointedly at Brent before reading out the rest of the names, marking Flint down as late then returning his attention back to his class. “Alright, class... today we will be learning about...”

Just as Earl was finishing his sentence, Flint burst through the door, and everyone stared at him.

“Hey, nerdwood`s back!” Brent pointed as the class laughed.

“Sorry I`m late Mr. Earl!” Flint apologized in his usual upbeat tone. “I needed to pop to the lab for a few things.”

“Flint Lockwood!!” Earl ran up to the young man, lifting his chin up which almost made Flint stumble backwards. “You`re late! What were you doing at home in the middle of school?”

“I just told you, I needed to go home for something that I am working on.” Flint replied trying not to look intimidated by Earl`s intense stare.

“The only working you should be doing is in my class!” Earl loosened his grip on Flint`s chin. “Now, go sit down at your desk! I don't want to see you walking in late again, you understand, Flint Lockwood?!”

“Yes, Mr. Earl.” Flint sighed, walking with his head down to his desk next to Sam. “Oh, Sam! I have something exciting to tell you!”

“Oh, that`s great, Flint!” Sam whispered, trying to avoid attracting attention from Earl. “Did you find me a story to talk about in my report?”

“Oh, yeah. You`re gonna love it!” Flint whispered back cackling.

“Flint Lockwood! And that new girl I can't remember the name of.” Earl exclaimed. “You better be engaging in some serious notetaking! Or do I need to put you both in deep detention?”

“Yes, Mr. Earl.” Flint and Sam said at the same time almost as if they had the same brain and both said the same thing.

The math lesson went by quickly as Earl handed out an end of lesson pop quiz, Flint and Sam took theirs as quickly as they could while the other classmates sighed and grumbled about having to do a math test.

“Sorry, Mr. Earl.” Brent put his hand up. “I can't do this test.”

“Ha, nice try Brent Mchale!” Earl said.

“How am I supposed to do this if I can't read?” Brent complained as he lurched back into his chair.

“You`ll just have to learn then!” Earl, ignoring Brent, walked to the front of the classroom and sat down with a book. Minutes later, Earl was interrupted by Flint and Sam holding their papers, smirking at one another. Earl walked over to collect their papers, giving them both an opportunity to do whatever they wanted to while they waited for others to finish.

Flint leaned towards Sam whispering in her ear. Sam shivered as he spoke softly into her ear. She loved it when he came close to her although she didn't really understand why. Surely, she was used to her best friend being close to her.

“I can't wait to show you what I`ve been working on!” Flint said excitedly.

“I can't wait to see what you`ve been working on!” Sam replied, smiling at Flint staring at him intently. She never really took notice to what a handsome man Flint was becoming. Flint stared back at her, noticing Sam was staring at him.

“What?” Flint asked, still not seeing Sam.

“Huh?” Sam snapped out of her daze. “Oh, nothing! Sorry. Just daydreaming.” Her cheeks turned a shade of light red, avoiding eye contact.

In the meantime, Gil Shelbourne had taken notice of Sam and Flint`s looks to each other and a flame of jealousy burned inside his stomach. Only recently, he noticed Sam and Flint being closer than they usually are. Gil had yet to admit that he had a crush on Sam since she came to Cannery High. At the same time, he could understand why Sam liked Flint. He was smart, kind and handsome. Gil had not ever seen Flint as good looking before, only recently, he had begun to grow feelings towards girls and boys.

Gil realized that he was staring at Flint and Sam when they both turned to look at him, eyebrows raised slightly as both wondered why he was staring at them.

Flint had noticed Gill acting strange towards him lately and was yet to understand why. Perhaps, he just wanted a friend.

Authors note -
(Please feel free to comment your thoughts on this chapter so far! This chapter is the first in the series which I aim to release every week)

Chapter Text

Episode 02 - Strange feelings

The sun tried its best to peak through the clouds as Sam admired them. She had adored the weather and the science behind it ever since she was a little girl. It was from then that Sam knew she would pursue a career in meteorology.

It was around 2pm and Sam hadn't seen Flint since school yesterday. She figured that he was busy working on his invention for her. The fact that he was working on an invention just for her was heartwarming to Sam. She sat quickly in her thoughts gazing out of her bedroom window staring at the cumulus nimbus clouds floating past her. A sight she loved very much. Suddenly, a loud knock echoed from her front door and she walked towards it fastly, hoping it was maybe Flint coming to tell her that he'd finished the invention.

She flung open the door and was slightly disappointed that it wasn't Flint like she thought it would be but her cousin, Annalise instead. She hadn't seen her since she was a small girl and was greeted with a hug.

"Hey, Sam!" Annalise smiled. "It's been ages since I've seen you!"

Annalise had a similar look to Sam, but she had black hair instead of blonde. Her eyes were green and she had a gothic appearance with a few piercings on her ears and a slender body.

"Hey, Annalise!" Sam smiled. "It has!! What are you doing in Swallow Falls?"

"I came over to see you!" Annalise replied. "Can I come in?"

Sam paused for a minute wondering why her cousin had decided to visit Swallow Falls after such a long time with no contact. She then stepped aside to let Annalise into her house.

"Yeah, of course!" Sam smiled. "So how have you been?"

"Good actually! Well since I've moved away from home anyways." Annalise said, going into the living room to sit on the sofa.

"Oh, I didn't know you'd moved!" Sam said. "Where did you move too?"

"New York City. I'm there for college." Annalise explained.

"Oh wow!" Sam said. "I miss living there sometimes.."

"What's it like living in Swallow Falls?" Annalise asked. "It's a bit small."

"It's been good actually. I've meet a few friends from school." Sam smiled lowering her gaze.

"Nice, Sam! Met anybody you have a crush on yet?"

"No. Well.. actually maybe." Sam blushed slightly.

"You either have or you haven't, Sam." Annalise giggled.

"I think I have but I don't really know." Sam frowned as Annalise glanced at her.

"You mean you can't tell because you don't know what it's like to be in love?"

"I guess so.." Sam replied. "I've never been in love before so I don't know what it's like."

"Well how do you feel when you're around them?"

"I tend to be a bit nervous for some reason when a few years ago, I was never nervous to be around him." Sam explained. "It's weird to me really. I keep staring at him too."

"Definitely sounds like love to me!" Annalise smirked. "What's he like?"

"Well, he's funny, kind and super intelligent. He is handsome too." Sam blushed slightly while playing with her hair.

"He sounds great, Sam!" Annalise giggled. "You should totally ask him out!"

"Ha, I don't think so." Sam protested.

"Well why not? If you like him, you should tell him."

"But I don't know if he likes me in that way."

"There's only one way to find out." Annalise said. "What's his name anyways?"

"Flint."

"Flint? Bit of an odd name but he sounds cute!"

"He is." Sam whispered but not quiet enough for Annalise to hear.

(Scene change) Flint's lab

Flint was in his lab working on his latest invention for Sam but needed to stop every now and then because he wasn't thinking clearly.
"Huh, what's the matter with me Steve?" Flint asked his lab assistant.

"Steve!" The monkey exclaimed while getting stuck in a box. "Stuck!"

"I just don't get it!" Flint said, holding his arms up in defeat then thumbing down into his seat. "I've been feeling off lately. I can't focus on my inventions!"

"Hey, son." Tim Lockwood walks into Flint's lab and sees Flint sitting with his head down at his desk. "You okay?"

"Oh, hey Dad." Flint lifted his gaze. "I don't know what's happening to me. I'm going through some changes that I can't explain."

"Oh, well.. I... um." Tim rubbed his head. "Well you see Son, when you start to grow up... you.. um. Going fishing."

Flint sighed as his dad went down the ladder to get his fishing gear.

"Web!" Steve ran towards a spider Web on a wall.

"Right again, Steve!" Flint exclaimed. "I should look it up on the world wide Web!"

After a while scrolling through the Internet for a while, he couldn't believe what he was seeing. Everything he was experiencing was love. Flint kept trying to deny it but got nowhere.
If only his mom was still alive. She would be able to explain everything that was troubling him. His mind was cramed and he figured that taking a walk would clear his head.

(End of chapter)

Chapter Text

Episode 03 – The Science Project

Students in Mr Earl’s class sat at their desks taking notes on the history lesson. The lesson focused on the early centuries of Swallow Falls and how the island came to be what the locals called the Sardine capital of the world.

“And that, students is how our beloved island came to be the Sardine capital of the world!” Earl said as students closed their notebooks.

“Attention students of Cannery High!” Principle Shelbourne announced through the speakers. “I am pleased to announce this year's science fair will be taking place again in two weeks' time! I have put you all into groups of four to work on a project of your own!”

“Yes!!” Flint and Sam called out excitedly giving each other high fives while the rest of the students sighed and grumbled about not having the choice in participating.

“Your teacher will give you your designated groups. Good luck!”. Principle Shelbourne signed off. Flint and Sam shifted around in their seats while Earl gave out the group names.

“Alright... The first group is Flint Lockwood, that new girl who`s name I can't remember…”

“It`s Sam!” Sam interrupted but smiled as she realized she was partnered with Flint.

“Brent Mchale and Gil Shelbourne. That is group one. Flint, Brent, Gill and the new girl... please go and sit on a table together.” Earl said.

Flint and Sam ran over to the first table with their backpacks before Gil and Brent followed them. Gil sat in between Flint and Sam as Brent slumped down in his seat.

Earl continued to read out the rest of the class groups as Flint and Sam got down to work, papers scattered around on the desk in front of them. Gil tried to look engaged in the conversation but kept getting distracted by Brent fooling around on his chair.

“Hey, nerds!” Brent called out. “Watch this!” No one looked at Brent as he ended up falling over on the chair and ended up falling onto the floor.

“Brent McHale!” Earl stormed over, picking Brent up by his blue top. “You better start working in your group, or do I need to send you to Principal Shelbourne`s office?”

“Hey! Don't mess up my clothes, I need them for nationals!” Brent protested. “Besides, Principal Shelbourne likes me.”

“Get to work and no back chatting!” Earl stormed off to the front of the class.

“Mr. Earl was really laying into you, Brent.” Gil said. “You don't wanna end up on the wrong side of mayor dad. Trust me!”

“Gil, Brent.” Sam glanced up at them. “We're supposed to be working in a group. Either of you gonna help?”

“Sorry, Sammy Sam, Sam.” Gil apologized and tried to look interested in what Flint was writing in his notebook.

“Easy, goggles.” Brent smirked at Sam who scowled. “I`m not interested in the project or working with two nerds, so I`m gonna sit this one out.”

“Brent! We need to work together on this!” Flint said as he was getting annoyed at the young Blonde who had no interest in science or working in a group.

“No, I don't.” Brent continued to agitate Flint, but Flint tried his best to keep his cool.

“You do!” Sam said, noticing that Flint was getting annoyed. “Didn't you hear what Mr. Earl said?! You`ll get sent to Principal Shelbourne`s office.”

“I don't care, goggles.” Brent said, laying back in his chair.
Flint, Sam and Gil decided to give up on Brent and focus on the project instead.

“Do you have any ideas for the project, Gil?” Sam asked. Gil went bright red as he realized that he was being asked something from his crush.

“As a matter of a fact, I do Sammy.” Gil wrote his idea in Flint`s notebook. “I already knew the science project was going ahead so I wanted to prepare for it.”

“That`s good of you, Gil.” Flint remarked looking pointedly at Brent who wasn't paying them any attention whatsoever. He glanced back at Gil and smiled. “And that`s not actually a bad idea!”

Gil blushed slightly, happy to get a compliment from the smartest kid in the class.

“Thanks, Flint!” Gil said, smiling at Flint. “Also, Mayor dad told me that I better win the contest, so he doesn't need to pay out on the prizes.”

Flint and Sam glanced at each other before returning their attention back to the project.

(Scene change)

Tim Lockwood was working in his Bait and Tackle shop, serving the three men who were regular customers at his cafe. After taking the men`s orders, he retreated to the kitchen to prepare the orders.

A few minutes later, the shop's bell rang out signaling a customer arriving. Tim finished up the orders before dishing them out on plates with three mugs of coffee.

Tim walked towards the front of the shop to see a woman with short blonde hair, green eyes and a slim figure waiting behind the counter.

“Hello, welcome to Tim’s Bait and Tackle, how can I help you?” Tim asked politely as the blonde woman glanced around the shop.

“Oh, hello there Tim.” The woman said in an accent which wasn’t of local origin. Tim guessed she was from mainland America. “My name is Claire Sparks. Myself and my daughter moved here two years ago from New York. I was offered a job here as a journalist for the local newspaper but I have unfortunately been made redundant and was going around shops to see if there are any jobs going?”

“Oh, I see.” Tim rubbed the back of his neck, becoming uncomfortable about being around a woman again. The last woman he had been around was Fran his beloved wife and mother to his son.

“Do you know if there are any jobs going around?” Claire asked Tim.

“Um, not that I know of I’m afraid.” Tim paused. “Unless you’d like to help me out as a waitress in my shop?”

“That would be great, Tim!” Claire’s face lit up at the sound of being offered a job. “I do have a CV if you need it.”

“Oh, no. No need for that.”

“Really?” Claire looked at him up and down.

“Yes. You see, I have tried to get my son to help around in the shop on weekends as he is still in school and I need someone to help out.”

“Oh, I understand. My daughter is in school as well.”

“Oh, right.” Tim said. “Flint isn’t interested in working in the industry. He wants to be an inventor.”

“What’s your sons name?”

“Flint. Flint Lockwood.”

“He sounds like my daughters new friend! My daughters name is Samantha Sparks. I’ve heard a lot about your Flint.” Claire smiled.

“Yes. I’ve met Samantha before. She is a lovely girl. They are as close as two Sardines in a can.”

“Haha, small world isn’t it!?” Claire beamed. “Samantha is grateful for your son, she says he’s the only one who has accepted her in school.”

“I’m sure he would like to hear that.” Tim said.

Tim and Claire talked for the rest of his shift. Tim ends up inviting Claire and Sam over for dinner the following day.

(End of episode)

Chapter Text

Episode 04 – The BBQ

Tim was picking up a few groceries from the Swallow Falls depot for dinner this evening with Flint, Claire and Samantha. He wasn't exactly sure what Claire and Samantha liked to eat but he did know that Samantha wasn't the biggest fan of sardines as Flint had reminded him three times today already.

He finished paying for the groceries at the counter getting served by Brenda who was local celebrity, Baby Brent`s mom. Brent had a bit of Brenda`s personality in the sense that she acted like she was better than everyone else and could be obnoxious sometimes. Maybe her son`s fame had gone to her head when he was just an infant.

The sun was beginning to set as Tim drove home from the grocery store and he was beginning to get nervous. The last time he had been in a woman`s company was when he was with Fran. He couldn't describe how difficult it was without her. When she passed, he and Flint were hit hard with grief and didn't know what to do without her. He remembered Flint would spend days and nights in his room on his own, he didn't even go to school. That was all before Tim had talked to him and reminded Flint that Fran would still want him to get on with inventing in her honour.

Of course, Flint took this as an opportunity to keep going until one day he would invent something which his mom would have been proud of. That was when Tim felt close to his son, which didn't happen often, as Flint didn't get his fishing metaphors, and Tim struggled to show his son the affection he needed sometimes.

Tim pulled up to the house, got out of his car and got the groceries from the back of the car before going up to unlock the front door. He was surprised to see Flint sitting on the sofa in front of the television, he was usually in his lab working on something.

“Hey, son.” Tim said before going into the kitchen to leave the groceries on the kitchen counter. He walked back towards the door between the kitchen and the living room gazing at Flint who hadn't spoken yet. “You okay, son?”

“Oh, hey Dad!” Flint looked up as the commercials ran on the tv. “Sorry, I was just watching Chester V`s show.”

“Oh, right... Well.” Tim said before glancing at the clock on the wall. “You gonna help me prepare for tonight?”

“Uh, okay.” Flint replied reluctantly but followed his dad into the kitchen. “What did you get?”

“A little bit of everything, Son.” Tim said, getting each item out of the bags. “Sausages, chicken wings, burgers.”

“Aw, nice one Dad!” Flint smiled. He knew Sam would like those. “What is Sam`s mom like?”

Tim paused for a moment before answering.

“Uh, she is a nice woman.” Tim said. “She looks like Samantha.”

“Well, I would say so, Dad.” Flint said sarcastically. “She is her daughter.”

“Well, you asked.” Tim replied.

“That`s true.” Flint said before getting all the things out of the packaging, placing them on small plates. He hadn't really felt nervous until now. His best friend was coming over for dinner with her mom! Sam had never been over for dinner before.

Flint had been trying to ignore the strange thoughts he had about Sam for a few days, but it was harder than he had hoped it would be. He had yet to tell his dad about what he had been feeling and that was mostly because Tim couldn't answer the questions Flint had asked. Flint knew that deep down, his dad understood because he was once a teenager too.

“What time did you say they were arriving?” Flint asked Tim, who was getting the plates and cutlery out of the drawers. Flint took some outside and laid them on the table as Tim started the BBQ to cook the meat on.

“6 o clock, son.” Tim said, putting two sausages on the BBQ as Flint watched him intently then checked the watch on his wrist. It was almost quarter to six.

“Ah, okay.” Flint said pacing around the garden near his lab treehouse. Tim took notice of his son`s pacing and glanced up at him.

“Hey, son.” Tim said. “You sure you`re doing, alright?”

“Yeah, Dad!” Flint replied with his usual hyper behaviour. “Everything is great, terrific!!”

“Son, you are pacing around as if you`ve lost your paddles at sea.” Tim said. “You can talk to me, you know?”

“It`s all good, dad.” Flint replied still pacing back and forth. “I am fine, thanks anyways.”

The doorbell rang from inside the house and Flint`s eyes widened, struggling to comprehend that Sam and her mother were already here. Tim looked at Flint pointedly.

“That`ll be the guests, Son.” Tim said, taking a sausage off the BBQ and putting four burgers on it instead.

“Yeah, I'm sure it is!” Flint forced himself to go and answer the door which was harder than he thought it would be. He wasn't exactly sure what he was so nervous about. He was never this nervous when seeing Sam, he concluded that he was maybe frightened of her mom.

His palms became sweaty as he rubbed them both with his lab coat before gulping then opening the front door to be greeted by Sam and her mom. Flint gazed at Sam bewildered by her beauty as she smiled at him. She wore a knee length dress which had patterns of flowers on it. Her mom watched and smiled as Sam and Flint eyed each other.

“Oh, hello!” Claire offered her hand. “You must be Tim`s son, Flint!”

“Uh, yeah... that`s me!” Flint replied, shaking Claire`s hand smiling. “It`s so nice to meet you!”

“Same with you, young man!” Claire looked up and down at Flint, noticing he was wearing a white lab coat. She heard from Sam that he always wore it whenever she saw him.

“Anyhow, please do come in!” Flint stepped aside allowing Sam and her mother to enter the house.

“Hey, Flint.” Sam smiled at her best friend who walked with her, Claire following behind them both.

“Hey, Sam!” Flint replied, noticing that Sam was closer to him than she normally was. Flint led them both into the back of the house where Tim was finishing up the BBQ.

“Hello, Timothy!” Claire said. “Might I say how lovely your son is!”

“Oh, mom!” Sam said, blushing slightly. “Don't embarrass Flint!”

“I'm not honey... Only stating the truth.” Claire smiled at her daughter then at Tim.

(Scene change, in Flint`s lab)

Claire had left at around 8pm leaving Sam with Flint. They helped clean up before Flint invited Sam to join him in his lab treehouse. Sam obliged and the two of them went up to Flint`s lab to hang out.

Sam was sitting on one of Flint`s bean bags, her body sinking into the surroundings as monitors lit up around the room, making the lab resemble a night sky filled with stars. Sam watched as Flint came out from behind a curtain which concealed what Sam had been waiting patiently for.

“Alright!” Flint said excitedly. “You ready for my greatest invention ever, Sam?”

“I sure am!!” Sam stood up as Flint took her hand and pulled back the curtain to reveal a small device sitting on the table. The device was covered in a pink colour, with white stars on the sides as well as a few rainbows and clouds.

Sam stood there amazed as she couldn't believe what she was seeing. “Wow, Flint!!”

“Do you like it?” Flint glanced at her, still holding her hand.

“It is beautiful!” Sam exclaimed. “What does it do?”

“Glad you asked. It tells you what the weather is doing from around the world with satellite radars, as well as a weather warning system to tell you whenever a storm is approaching.”

Sam was thrilled and touched by Flint`s efforts in making an invention specifically for her. She didn't know Flint would react if she told him that she might have feelings for him but decided not to. She grabbed Flint by his waist, pulling him in for a hug.

Flint on the other hand, didn't know what to say by Sam`s sudden embrace. He decided to relax with her soft touch, noticing that Sam was over the moon by his invention which made him smile. Flint returned the embrace and wrapped his arms around her, Sam squeezing him tightly.

He was lost for words at how nice this felt. The only person he had ever hugged was his mom but that was years ago. He didn't really know how to react. He only knew that he felt a tingling feeling from inside but had no idea what it was.

Sam was enjoying the embrace between her and Flint very much. She felt secure in his arms and didn't want to let go of him. They stayed in each other's arms for a little while before Flint wriggled free from Sam`s tight grip. After she released him, they both shared a glance before blushing slightly.

Flint tried to brush the feeling off and broke the silence by handing Sam his invention. She took it, her fingers brushing over his. The two shared another gaze at each other before Sam glanced at the small device in her hands.

“Flint...” She began, stumbling over her words as she tried to thank him. “I don't know what to say. I cannot say thank you enough.”

“You already have, Sam.” He looked at her big beautiful green eyes. They sparkled under the light of the monitors. Sam frowned then realized that he meant the hug was more than enough. She smiled at him, trying to fight the butterflies in her stomach. She didn't know how to say that she liked him. After the conversation with Annalise, and the times that she watched romantic movies with her Nana all the time, Sam knew that she was beginning to fall in love with Flint but couldn't tell him. Not yet.

Chapter Text

Episode 05 – Gil

Gil Shelbourne sat alone in his bedroom, listening to Poppa Piglet playing on his TV in the background. His father had never approved of his taste in TV shows as he thinks they are too immature for the son of the mayor to be watching. Especially since Gil had recently turned sixteen a few weeks ago. This was how his father saw him. As an immature child.

Ever since Gil was a child, he had been seen as an unwanted object by his father. His mom had left the family after she had gone through a messy divorce with Shelbourne, leading to a court hearing in who was in custody of Gil. When it was proven that none of them had the proper custody of Gil, his mom had left him to grow up in the hands of Mayor Shelbourne.

Of course, the judge ruled that Mayor Shelbourne had the right to take custody of Gil because he was Mayor of Swallow Falls.

Gil was reminicing about his upbringing before he was rudely interrupted by the sound of his father announcing that it was time to get ready for bed. He jumped slightly before going into his ensuite to brush his teeth and put on his poppa piglet pajamas. After finishing, he walked back to his bedroom to switch off his TV, before climbing into bed. Even his bed covers were covered in Poppa Piglet and the walls. He lay there in his bed still thinking about things. He did not know how to switch these thoughts off. One of Flint Lockwood`s inventions would help.

He stopped in his train of thoughts, Flint... He had been thinking about him a lot recently. Yet, he did not know why. Thoughts that he had never had before and never thought he would ever have. As he started to grow up, he noticed a change in his personality and in Flint`s. Things were changing, and Gil was not sure whether he liked that or not. All he knew was that things would continue to change and there was nothing that he could do about it.

Gil watched the clock ticking in his room not knowing what to do to distract himself from his invading thoughts. His mind went back to Flint. He had noticed a change in Flint`s personality but in a good way. He had also started to notice that Flint and Sam had become closer than they used to be and that was saying something, since they had always been close friends. But lately, something has changed between them. Gil could feel his jealousy burning inside him. He had liked Sam to begin with and still had feelings for her but now, he started to like Flint too.

He knew it was wrong but did not know how to feel about the thought of liking another boy. He had heard of people liking both girls and boys no matter what their gender was. He soon realized he was one of those people.

Suddenly his train of thoughts was interrupted again but this time from his mobile phone on the desk beside him. He leaned over and picked it up, the bright screen making him squint slightly as he struggled to focus. One message notification appeared on his messages app. He clicked on it, his heart skipping a beat when he saw that it was from Flint.

Hey, Gil. Just wondering if you are able to come round to my lab tomorrow to work on our group project?
Flint.

His heart raced more at the thought of seeing Flint tomorrow. He replied as quickly as he had read the message.

Hey, Flint!! Yeah, sure! I would be glad too. Thanks for asking. I have a few ideas for the project and wanna see what you and Sam think!
Gil.

He eagerly waited for an answer from Flint but didn’t receive one, leaving him disappointed but he kept his phones notifications turned on just on the off chance that Flint would get back to him and went to sleep.

(Scene change)
It was 12am and Flint was still working on another invention in his lab. He was staying up later than he usually would. The last time he had stayed up this late was when his mom had just died. He figured that if he couldn’t sleep, then he might as well be inventing. Although, the sleepless nights had started to creep up on him.

He didn’t really know why he couldn’t sleep, he only knew that he was having some strange thoughts lately. He just didn’t know why. He thought back to a few nights ago when Sam and her mom had been round and smiled. He remembered the way Sam had hugged him tight making his heart flutter. He didn’t know what to feel. He only knew that his mind and body was changing and kind of knew why. He recalled his dad saying that he would start to change as he progressed through his teen years into adult years and figured it was most likely that which was causing him to feel strange.

He wanted to shut off his mind from the annoying thoughts but just couldn’t. He just wanted to feel normal again.

Chapter Text

Episode 06 – New emotions

The sun shone brightly over the tiny island of Swallow Falls. Swallow Falls didn't get the sun often due to being situated under the A in Atlantic, with storms blasting the island regularly. Even during the summer months, Swallow Falls had thunderstorms along with never-ending rain.

Crowds of citizens gathered on the streets, rushing to the ice cream parlour desperate to get their hands on the newest flavour "Sardine delight." Well, everyone except four teenagers who were staying in the shade of a uniquely engineered lab tree house.

Flint, Sam, Gil and Brent all gathered around a small table discussing the science project. Flint and Sam were the ones doing all the talking while Gil listened to every word. Brent on the other hand couldn't have been further from reality as he ate leftover Pizza from Flint`s dinner the night before. Brent wasn't engaging in the group project at all, mostly because he hated science and did not approve of being involved with a group of science-loving nerds, well two of them were at least.

“Alright, guys.” Flint said as he finished writing on the chalkboard. “We all up to speed with everything we talked about?”

Sam and Gil both nodded then turned to look at Brent who wasn't even in the zone. Flint turned to look pointedly at Brent then realized that there was little point in getting Brent to be interested in the project, never mind take notice of what Flint and Sam were saying.

“Brent?” Sam asked after realizing Flint was staring at Brent. “Brent!”

This, however, caught the young blonde's attention, making him nearly jump from his seat.

“What is it nerdzella?” Brent remarked.

“Uhm, haven't you been paying attention to what Flint, and I have been saying?!” Sam looked displeased as she put her hands on his hips.

“Why would I pay attention to what you two nerds say?” Brent remarked finishing the last piece of Pizza in front of him.

Sam was ready to tell him off for being so rude when Flint leaned in close, whispering in her ear which sent chills down her spine.

“Sam... There`s no point in trying to reason with Brent.” Flint whispered, making sure he wasn't heard by Brent. Gil, however, caught what was being said and rolled his eyes at Brent.

“But... Flint, if we stand by and saying nothing, he will never change.” Sam whispered back.

“Do you really expect Brent to change?” Flint cackled slightly which caught the attention of the blonde.

“Hey! Stop whispering about me behind my back, nerd wood!” Brent said, burping loudly halfway through his sentence which made Gil grimace pulling his chair closer to Sam`s.

“Well pay attention then, Brent!” Sam said ready to tell him off again when Flint pulled her back. Sam had recently noticed a change in her behaviour lately. She was becoming more irritated and madder at things that never usually bothered her. Sam decided to step out for a bit of fresh air. Being in the same room as Brent was making her more agitated by the minute.

Gil looked at Flint who stared after Sam and Brent stood up.

“Aw, finally!” Brent said smiling. “It`s break time!!” He walked out leaving Gil and Flint.

“What`s wrong with Sammy Sam, Sam?” Gil asked Flint who realized he had been staring.

“Not sure, Gil...” Flint replied looking sad for a moment. “I would guess it was because Brent was irritating her.”

“He is pretty annoying.” Gil said, glancing at Flint. His mind drifted back to last night and the thoughts which kept him awake for the night.

“He sure is. I just wasn't expecting Sam to walk out because of him.” Flint said, keeping his voice low. “I should go check on her. I'll be back soon Gil. You can go for a little break too if you wanna.”

“Alright, Flint.” Gil smiled watching Flint walk towards the outside of the lab where Sam sat alone, her hands on her face.

Flint had noticed that Sam wasn't looking up when Gil walked past, glancing at her. Flint waved Gil away, which Gil had taken note of and walked down the ladder. Flint waited until Gil left his backyard to sit next to Sam who looked beside her.

“You, okay?” Flint asked, putting his arm around her shoulder before realizing Sam had tears in her eyes. “Hey, what`s up?”

“I don't know, Flint...” Sam replied, whimpering slightly as she leaned in towards Flint. “Can you keep a secret, Flint?”

Flint`s heart skipped a beat slightly blushing. He didn't know what Sam would say and fear grew inside him.

“Uhh, I guess so.” Flint replied, awkwardly. “I mean, sure for you, I will.”

Sam smiled at him knowing fine well that Flint was terrible at keeping secrets as she thought back to the time when Flint got her diary to find out what she was getting him for his birthday. She smirked at the memory before returning to her serious conversation.

“I haven't been feeling like myself lately, I don't know if I should be telling you this in case you think I am turning crazy.” Sam glanced away from Flint`s piercing blue eyes.

“Sam... I would never think that you are crazy.” Flint said, putting his hand on her shoulder. “I'm pretty sure we both know who is the crazy one out of us two.”

Flint smiled as Sam giggled at his comment. He wasn't wrong. Flint had always been the crazy one out of them both but that was what she had loved most about him.

“Haha, I meant... My emotions have been changing and sometimes for the worse. I have talked to my mom about it, but she keeps saying it is normal for girls my age to be going through emotions and mood swings.” Sam explained as Flint listened to every word intently.

“Your mom is probably right, Sam.” Flint replied, gazing at Sam as her green eyes started to fill with tears again.

“Oh, I just don't know what is happening to me, Flint.” Sam sobbed as Flint was stuck on what to do to support her. He soon decided that a hug would be the best thing. He always remembered whenever he was sad as a child, his mom would always hug him to make him feel better.

Flint held Sam tightly to his chest as she cried, her tears making the inside of his lab coat wet. Sam cried for a bit longer before squeezing Flint tighter to her. They stayed in the embrace for a while before Gil stood behind them staring at them both.

“Uh, guys?” Gil said holding three smoothies in a cardboard tray. “I brought us some smoothies to drink. I figured that we would enjoy them in this heat.”

Flint and Sam soon parted from their embrace and both blushed when they saw Gil who was just staring at them both. Flint couldn't tell whether Gil was shocked to see them embracing or jealous because he always had a crush on Sam.

Sam wiped the tears from her face and smiled at Gil before looking lovingly at Flint.

“Aw, thank you Gil. That is so sweet of you.” She smiled after drying her eyes as Gil continued to stare blankly at her and Flint. Jealously burned inside of him the more he looked at them but that soon went away after Sam made eye contact with him.

“You're welcome, Sammy Sam, Sam.” Gil walked into the lab with the smoothies before laying them on the table. Flint and Sam smiled at one another, blushing.

“Uh, you gonna be okay for the project work, Sam?” Flint asked. “You can go if you want to.”

“Aw, no! Don't be silly. I`ll stay.” Sam protested. “Besides, Brent isn't here now.”

Flint smiled at her before they both made their way into the lab to have their smoothies with Gil and work on the project without Brent.

Chapter Text

Episode 07 – Teamwork

Flint, Sam and Gil sat together around the table drinking the smoothies which Gil had brought back from his break. The three of them sipped without talking. Flint had figured it was because Gil was jealous of seeing Sam and Flint embracing one another moments prior. However, he didn't know for sure if that was the thing that was bothering Gil as he had been silent throughout the day. Maybe his dad was giving him a hard time again.

Sam was the first to finish her smoothie, smiling as she drank the remainder of the strawberry flavoured beverage. Gil had been staring at her and Sam intently throughout the awkward encounter which was beginning to make Flint feel uncomfortable. He was never silent. He wasn't used to being quiet. He was usually muttering or whistling to himself as he worked on his latest invention. This, however, was not the time to whistle to himself.

“Ah, that was delicious, Gil!” Sam broke the awkward silence which made Flint glad. “Thank you so much for getting us those!”

“You're welcome, Sammy, Sam Sam!!” Gil said, his cheeks turning a bright shade of red at her compliment. Flint took notice of how red Gil was turning.

“Hey, Gil, your face is going red.” Flint said. “You need to go out for some air? It is warm in here.”

“What?” Gil asked. “Oh, no. I am fine, Flint but thanks anyways!” Gil smiled as Flint nodded.

“Okay, well only if, you're sure.” Flint replied. “So, I don't think Brent will be coming back.”

Sam smirked as Flint glanced at her

“That`s okay.” Sam said. “We can continue without him.”

“Yea, I agree with Sam.” Gil said. “It`s not like he was of any help anyways.”

Sam and Flint both nodded at the same time and giggled. Gil did not get what they were laughing at but decided to join them.

“Okay!” Flint started. “We all okay with how we are going to do this project?”

“Huh, yeah!” Gil said, pulling his chair closer to the table to get a better look at the mind map that Flint had created after jotting down all the ideas generated by Sam and Gil during the brainstorming session earlier.

At the top of the mind map were the words “How will we invent a car that runs on balloons?” Below this were the ideas generated as well as a few diagrams that had Flint`s artistic signature on them. Together, they worked until sunset.

(Scene change)

It was around 6pm when Flint, Sam and Gil had finished testing prototypes for the balloon powered car and Gil had left to go cook dinner for him and his father leaving Flint and Sam alone which had given Sam the perfect opportunity to thank Flint for his comfort a few hours ago.

“Hey, Flint?” Sam started as Flint finished putting various tools and equipment back into his invention discount bin which had consisted of Flint`s many past inventions that did not work or were broken.

“Yeah, Sam?” Flint asked sweetly before glancing at her, then realizing they were alone.

“I haven't had the chance to thank you for today.” Sam said. “For... well... You know.”

“Ah, don't worry about it, Sam!” Flint said before walking over to her and sitting down. Steve followed his owner, leaping onto Flint`s shoulder.

“I really appreciate it though, Flint.” Sam turned her blushing face away from Flint. “It means a lot. I don't get the chance to speak to my mom seeing as she is either not interested in what I have to say or is simply dismissive.”

“Well... I`m glad you feel like you can talk to me whenever you need too.” Flint said as Sam gave him a loving stare. “I can't really talk about anything serious with my dad either. Although sometimes, he gives me some good advice. But I mostly have Steve to talk to about things.”

Sam and Flint just sat and watched the sunset over the mountain seeing as the blue curtain to the lab was pulled back to allow fresh air inside. The two of them grow closer by the minute. Sam wanted to lay her head on Flint`s shoulder but didn't dare to due to her fear that Flint wouldn't like it. The two of them were as close as two sardines packed inside one can. However, this would not last long as Sam spotted Tim Lockwood making his way from the kitchen to the backyard.

“Hey, son!” Tim called before he spotted his offspring sitting with Sam in front of the lab. “Oh... uh... Dinner is almost ready. Samantha, would you like to stay for dinner?”

“Oh, I would love to Tim!” Sam called back to him before Tim nodded then headed back into the kitchen. “You don't mind do you, Flint?”

“Mind? Why would I mind?” Flint asked. “We love having you round for dinner!”

Sam smiled at him before they both climbed down the ladder to help Tim with dinner.

(End of episode)

Chapter Text

Episode 08 – Compliments

Earl had just finished handing out the math test to the class when the students sighed and started answering the questions on their papers. Flint and Sam were excited to start the test, which differed to that of the rest of the students who hated math tests, especially on the last lesson before lunch break where everyone was getting hungry. The class was silent as the students answered the questions when a small squeak from a chair distracted most of the class.

Brent put his hand up as Earl shook his head at the young blonde indicating that he should be answering the questions on the paper. Brent kept his hand raised as Earl decided to ignore him and picked up his book to continue reading while sitting on the chair behind his desk.

“Hey, nerdwood!” Brent whispered to Flint who sat next at the desk beside him. “Your smart. You know the answers to these?”

Flint glanced at Brent before looking at Earl who seemed engrossed in his book. He glanced at Brent again and shook his head.

“Uh, come one, Nerdwood.” Brent pleaded. “I wanna get to lunch faster...”

Flint tried his best to ignore Brent, thinking that would stop him from asking for the answers but it didn't.

“Oh, come on, man!” Brent whined.

“Brent. For the last time, no.” Flint said, slightly agitated. “You're supposed to do it yourself.”

“But I don't know any of the stupid answers.” Brent continued to whine at Flint who was getting more irritated by Brent`s demands.

“You should know the answers.” Flint replied. “We did the lesson before this test.”

“Well, I wasn't listening because it was so boring.” Brent said.

“Brent!” Flint said in a slightly higher tone, hoping that Earl would hear it which he did.

“Brent McHale! Flint Lockwood!” Earl said which made half of the class jump. “Is that you two blathering during the test?!”

“Mr. Earl.” Flint began. “Brent keeps asking me for the answers to the test.”

Earl marched towards the desks; his arms crossed as he stared at the two teenagers with a look of disappointment.

“What?” Brent questioned Flint. “It was you who was asking me for the answers, Nerdwood.”

Flint couldn't keep quiet anymore and was about to give Brent a piece of his mind when Earl looked at Brent`s test paper to find no answers written on the page, then he glanced at Flint`s who was halfway done.

“Brent McHale!” Earl pointed at Brent who almost fell backward of his chair. “You are not to cheat on tests. If I catch you distracting the class again, you will be sent outside and automatically fail this test!”

“Uh, Mr. Earl!” Brent complained as Earl walked away. “I can't do it!! It's too hard!”

“Brent McHale!” Earl said. “I don't wanna hear another word from you. You understand?”

Brent sighed and slumped onto his desk glaring at Flint who was concentrating on finishing the test.

“This is your fault, Nerdwood!” Brent whispered, crumpling his test paper into a ball and threw it at Flint.

“Brent!” Flint exclaimed, which caught the attention of Earl again.

“Right, Brent!” Earl marched to Brent`s desk, grabbed his arm and led him out of the classroom. “You stay out here until I say so, you got that?”

“Oh, I get to skip the test!” Brent exclaimed proudly. “Sweet!!”

Earl sighed and realized it was pointless trying to reason with Brent and went back into the classroom, slamming the door behind him. Brent took that as a sign of being excused to go home and he left.

Meanwhile, back in class, Flint and Sam were the first to finish the tests sitting quietly for the other students to finish. Flint glanced at Sam, smiling and Sam returned the gesture. Earl put his book down and went over to collect Flint and Sam`s papers allowing them to go to lunch early.

Flint and Sam high fived each other before grabbing their backpacks and heading out of the classroom together. Gil watched them leave together, jealously burning inside of him. He wished he was as close to them as Flint and Sam were alone.

(Scene change)

Flint sat with Sam in the cafeteria as their other classmates arrived at lunch ten minutes after they had got out. Their classmates glared at Flint and Sam, jealous of them getting out before they did. Sam caught on with their stares and blushed slightly, glancing at Flint who didn't even notice their glares as he finished his lunch.

“Hey, why are they giving us weird looks?” Sam asked Flint who was too busy staring at her to even notice. Sam had only started to feel self-conscious as of late and their glares weren't helping matters.

“Uh?” Flint realized he had been staring at Sam then glanced over her shoulder to see what Sam had been talking about. “Oh, right. They're probably jealous that we got out before they did.”

Sam met Flint`s gaze when he noticed that Sam was blushing a little.

“Hey, Sam. You, okay?” Flint asked. “Your face has gone red.”

“What?” Sam asked, looking at him, then looked at the floor feeling embarrassed to look him in the eye. “Oh, no! I`m fine, Flint!”

“You sure?” Flint asked. “Only asking as your best friend.”

Sam was touched by this. Although she already knew that her and Flint were best friends, it was still nice to know how much she meant to him.

“Flint... I am fine. Just feeling it hot in here.” Sam pretended to fan herself with her hand, but Flint knew that she was lying. He could just tell.

“Well, alright. If you say so.” Flint smiled at her but knew that she wasn't really.

Just then, Manny, the school caretaker had entered the cafeteria and speed walked over to where Flint and Sam were sitting. The short man tapped Sam on her shoulder, making her jump slightly.

“Sam. We must film the school report now.” Manny said in his Spanish accent.

“Aw, already?” Sam protested but got up to follow Manny after looking back to Flint. “I`ll see you in class, Flint.”

“Yeah, sure Sam!!” Flint said waving her goodbye as she followed Manny leaving Flint sitting on his own. He decided to recite the notes for the upcoming presentation during the next lesson. He had been looking forward to showing off what he, Sam and Gil had made for the science project ever since they had started. Well what Flint, Sam and Gil had done. Brent chose not to participate in the project. Speaking of Brent, Flint hadn't seen him since his irritating behaviour in class.

Small footsteps interrupted Flint in his train of thought, and he looked up to see Gil walking towards his table. Flint glanced at Gil who sat himself down opposite Flint smiling.

“Hey, Flint.” Gil said. “Where`s Sam?”

“She`s away doing the school report with Manny.” Flint replied.

“Oh, right.” Gil said. “Well, what are you doing?”

“I'm just going over these notes for the project presentation tomorrow.” Flint replied.

“Oh, I see.” Gil said, looking slightly disappointed.

“You okay, Gil?” Flint asked.

“Huh? Oh, yeah!” Gil said looking confused. “Why?”

“You just look... nervous or something.” Flint replied, turning his attention back to his notes as Gil watched him.

“Well, I kind of am with presenting in front of the class.” Gil said.

“Ah, right.” Flint didn't know what to say. Gil was supposed to be demonstrating how the invention worked with Flint talking through it as Sam went through the presentation on the computer.

“Are you nervous, Flint?” Gil asked.

“Nervous? Me?” Flint laughed. “Gil. I`m an inventor, I must be confident about presenting inventions to everyone!”

“I admire that about you, Flint.” Gil blushed.

“You do?” Flint blushed slightly too, he was yet to get a compliment from anyone, let alone from Gil.

“I do. I wish I had your courage.”

Flint was shocked to hear this but weirdly touched. He didn't know what to say. He had gotten through tough times with the memory of his dear mother telling him to keep going, no matter what anyone thought. He always remembered his mom saying...

My sweet, little inventor. Always remember the world needs your originality, Flint. Never forget that.

Flint never forgot.

Chapter Text

Episode 09 – Science Project Day

It was a stormy morning in Swallow Falls as locals reluctantly left the warmth of their homes to embrace the fierce weather. The storm made its presence known early in the morning, arriving without any warning. Towards the ocean, the high waves were accompanied by the constant howling of the wind. Even Sal, the giant sardine statue standing tall on his own little island, had been hit by the fierce waves. Sal was known as Swallow Fall`s very own landmark, as well as being the island`s only lighthouse, his eyes shining beams on the water alerting boats they were near land on a foggy night.

Back on the mainland, students were rushing inside the interior of Cannery High in a desperate attempt to stay sheltered. Crowds of people pushed past one another fighting to be the first inside while others went to the other side of the school to avoid the crowds. Students grumbled once inside, mad that they had to endure the stormy weather just for another day at school.

Tim Lockwood had just pulled up to the school`s entrance in his car as Flint got out, looking back to wave at his father as he pulled away. Flint splashed through the puddles in his spray on shoes as he ran towards the school. Once he had reached the doors, he rushed inside, shaking his wet hair from the rain. He shook his hair one last time, styling it into his original hairstyle. He spotted Sam in the corner of the cafeteria and ran over to sit with her.

“Hey, Sam!” Flint exclaimed as Sam`s head shot up when she heard his voice.

“Oh, hey Flint!!” Sam replied, smiling at him. “I see you made it in safely from the storm.”

Flint sat down opposite her, getting their science project out and placing it on the table. Flint had been doing the finishing touches to the project the night before, painting around the exterior of the car with his artistic flair of blue stripes. The project was a car which ran off balloon power.

“Uhh, yeah.” Flint said. “Dad had to drive me here cos the weather is so bad.”

“You don't say.” Sam said, giggling when Flint gave her a confused look.

“Did your mom not drive you to school?” Flint asked looking baffled.

“Of course she did!” Sam replied. “She had no choice seeing as the bus driver is ill.”

“Ah, yes!” Flint remarked. “Of course, I was going to say!”

Sam laughed at Flint as she took a sip of her coffee admiring the miniature car on the table.

“Wow, Flint!” Sam said. “You`ve made it look so cool with the blue stripes on the side!”

“Thanks, Sam. I tried to make it look authentic. Like those racing cars you see on tv.”

“Oh, nice!” Sam frowned. “By the way, have you seen Gil or Brent yet?”

“No, I just arrived.” Flint replied. “Why?”

“The science project!” Sam answered. “They're supposed to be presenting the project with us today!”

“Oh, yeah...” Flint paused. “I'm sure Gil will be around somewhere but I`m not betting that Brent will be here.”

Just then, Brent walked into the room, going towards the mascot table annoying the popular girls on the way, who didn't even notice him as they talked about fashion. Soon after, Gil appeared, looking flushed. Sam soon took notice of this.

“Hey, Gil... Are you alright?” Sam asked him, looking worried.

“Huh?” Gil asked, trying to keep calm as his heart raced in his chest. “Oh, yeah! I`m fine, Sammy Sam Sam!!”

“Really?” Sam asked softly. “You don't look it.”

“I'm okay, Sammy, Sam, Sam.” Gil replied, his face turning redder by the second. “Honestly!!”

Flint turned his attention to Gil and noticed that he was sweating profusely and looked as though he wanted to cry.

“Gil... You, okay?” Flint asked in a friendly tone. “You`re sweating.”

“I said I`m fine, Flint!” Gil snapped. “It`s just warm in here!”

Flint and Sam looked at each other, confused. It was freezing in the cafeteria. They both knew Gil wasn't alright and were determined to figure out what was going on with him.

“Gil... You know you can tell us anything, right, Flint?” Sam said sweetly.

“Yeah, sure!” Flint nodded. “Besides, it`s science project day!!”

“That`s exactly the reason why I'm afraid!” Gil said, his eyes filling with tears. This confused Flint and Sam. Gil was always talkative and confident because he was the son of the mayor. He never seemed to be shy or nervous, especially when it came to school.

“Huh? Gil, I thought you loved class.” Flint asked, confused.

“I do, Flint but I... I don't like presenting in front of everyone.” Gil explained, sobbing as tears poured down his face. “I just freeze and stutter whenever I have to talk in front of the class. I don't know why, but I hate it.”

Flint and Sam were at a loss for words, not wanting to say anything that would make Gil more upset. Sam decided to come to the other side of the table to comfort Gil as she struggled to think of anything else which might help. She put her arm around Gil as he continued to sob before squeezing her tightly.

Jealously burned inside of Flint as he watched them embrace one another. He didn't know what to do and felt awkward. Why didn't Sam hug him like that when he was upset? Then again, Flint was never upset, especially in front of his best friend. He stared at them for ages before Sam broke free from Gil`s tight embrace.

Sam glanced at Flint and instantly felt bad for him. Flint had been staring the whole time and Sam knew he was jealous but didn't know why. Maybe he was simply confused.

(Scene change) Mr. Earls classroom

Gil shifted around in his seat nervously as the first group presented their projects. Flint, Sam and Brent were all in the same row as Gil since Earl had put everyone in their groups. Sam and Flint kept glancing at Gil, smiling at him as if telling him not to worry without saying anything. Before class, they had come to an agreement that Flint and Sam would do all the talking while Brent and Gil did the PowerPoint presentation. Although this helped Gil immensely, he was still very nervous and didn't know why.

“Alright, Flint Lockwood`s group... you`re up next!” Earl called from behind his desk as the previous group unplugged their USB`s and left the computer for the next group. Flint, Sam, Gil and Brent followed each other to the front of the class.

Sam put the USB device inside the monitor and moved aside to let Gil and Brent sit down to move the slides as she and Flint talked through the project. Before walking towards Flint, Sam patted Gil on the shoulder with a reassuring smile. Gil returned the smile.

“Alright, Flint Lockwood!” Earl said. “Be sure to tell the class what your project is.”

“Sure can, Mr. Earl!” Flint said excitedly as he pulled the cover off their project. “Presenting, the Balloon Powered Motor! This motor runs entirely from the gas of an ordinary balloon. Demonstrating is my trusty friend, Sam!”

Sam took out a blown-up balloon before untying the end and attached it to the car's exhaust. Flint took the balloon from Sam`s hands, his fingers sliding over hers which send shivers down her spine. What was wrong with her? She had never felt this way towards someone before. Before she could go further in her train of thought, she snapped out of it as Flint motioned for Sam to stand back.

“The car runs entirely from the balloons air, demonstrating Newtons third law of motion.” Flint explained to the rest of the class. As he explained Newtons third law of motion, Gil was staring at him intently as he talked. Why couldn't Gil be like that? Confident and brave.

“Newtons third law of motion states that for every action, there`s an equal but opposite reaction... the same can be demonstrated through this car. The air out of the balloon pushes against the car, causing it to move forward.” Flint hadn't even noticed Gil staring at him as he continued.

“In this case, the reaction is the air from the balloon pushing against the car with the same force causing forwards movement of the car.” Sam finished as Flint let go of the balloon and watched as the car took off around the classroom before bumping into Mr. Earls' toe.

“Say no more, Flint Lockwood and new girl whose name I can't remember!” Earl picked up the car and handed it back to Flint. “Excellent work on demonstrating Newtons third law of motion using an interesting object! Straight A plus on that project!!”

“Yeess!!” Flint and Sam screamed in unison, high fiving each other beaming before heading back to their seats as Gil and Brent followed behind them.

“Aw, thanks Mr. E!” Brent said. “I did most of the work on that project.”

“What?” Sam snorted. “Brent, you didn't even work with us on it! All you did was annoy us whilst we were trying to work together.”

“Mr. McHale!” Mr. Earl demanded. “Is that true?”

“What? Of course it isn't, Mr. E!” Brent argued. “I came up with the idea! I invented it!”

Flint and Sam glanced at each other before protesting against Brent`s arrogant claims but before they had the chance to tell Brent off, Earl stopped them.

“Brent McHale!” Earl said. “I know for a fact that you hate working with others in a group, especially if that involves Flint Lockwood and that new girl`s name who rhymes with ham...”

“It`s Sam...” Sam corrected him.

“Brent McHale! I know you are lying about that! Do I need to remind you that I can still send you to Principal Shelbourne?”

“Fine, but he likes me anyways so what`s the point in sending me to him?” Brent argued.

“Right, you are on one last warning before I send you to him!” Earl said.

“Fine, whatever...”

“Right, that`s it... Go to Principal Shelbourne right now!” Earl said as Brent protested.

“What!?” Brent said. “Why?”

“I just told you why... Now go, now!” Earl pointed to door and Brent walked out, slamming the door behind him in a rage. Meanwhile, Earl phoned Principal Shelbourne to inform him that Brent was misbehaving again.

The lesson was finished after the last groups completed their presentations and the class was dismissed for the day. Gil had caught up with Sam and Flint as he existed the school.

“Hey, Flint, Sammy!!” Gil called. “Can I talk to you before you go?”

“Yeah, sure you can, Gil!” Sam replied, smiling. “What`s up?”

“Uh, I just wanted to thank you and Flint for helping me out during the presentation today.” Gil smiled as he blushed slightly.

“Aw, Gil... It`s no problem!” Sam smiled at him, which made his face turn redder. “Is it, Flint?”

“Huh?” Flint snapped out of his thoughts. “Oh... Uh... Yes! No problem at all, Gil!”

“Thanks, guys!” Gil smiled at them both before avoiding direct eye contact with them. “Uh, so... As a gift for being so nice... I`ve organized a day trip to the Swallow Falls Zoo at the weekend!!”

Sam and Flint stood silent for a moment, not knowing what to say.

“Oh my gosh, Gil!!” Sam exclaimed. “You really shouldn't have!!”

“Yeah, it was about teamwork anyways.” Flint replied.

“Oh hush!” Gil giggled. “I wanted to thank you both anyways for working with me... no one else wants to work with me on anything.”

“Gil...” Sam started before Gil cut her off.

“No, Sammy. I wanted us to celebrate our hard work, so I figured that would be a nice way to say thank you.” Gil replied as Sam hugged him, leaving Flint standing awkwardly with his books and the toy car.

“Well, uhh... Thank you, Gil!” Flint said awkwardly.

“No... Thank you.”

Chapter Text

Rays of sunlight beamed down on Swallow Falls as clusters of white clouds attempted to hide the sunlight. The locals were grateful that the storm had disappeared, and they could go enjoy the sunshine in exchange for the hailstones and gusty winds from the day before.

Sam sat on a hammock in her backyard enjoying the sunshine as she sipped on her morning coffee while writing in her diary. She was grateful that she had the chance to have time alone with her thoughts. She had kept a diary for as long as she could remember and would always find time in the morning to sit and write about her life and more importantly about her feelings. She giggled to herself as her mind went back to the time when Flint had been so desperate to find out what Sam was getting him for his fifteenth birthday, and he accidentally broadcast her entire diary to the school. Deep down, Sam had known that it was a mistake, but that didn't make it any less embarrassing.

Flint... She hadn't thought of anyone else for the past few months and was struggling to comprehend why she couldn't switch off her thoughts. She had figured that writing her feelings down in her diary would help get rid of those thoughts, but it wasn't. Sam was in the middle of writing about how the clouds looked like different animals when she started a new page to write about her growing feelings.

09th June 2003

Dear diary,

I can't stop thinking about Flint again... I don't know why but it seems like these feelings are not going to leave me be. My cousin, Annalise, always insisted that I was in love with Flint, but I am unsure and keep doubting myself as he has always been a close friend and am reluctant to envision him being anything more.

I really don't know when to confess to Flint that I love him more than a friend, but I am afraid he will abandon me because of my feelings towards him. I am unsure whether Flint likes me in that way or not... He is hard to read sometimes, so it is difficult to tell for sure. Anyways, Flint and I have been invited to go to the Swallow Falls Zoo by Gil in return for helping him during the science project presentation, and he will be arriving soon to get me and Flint so I will write again tomorrow to see how it goes and whether my feelings have left me alone or not...

Sam finished her coffee and closed her diary getting off the hammock to go to the kitchen to wash her weather inspired mug. Just as she had finished putting her mug in the cabinet, a soft knock came from the front door and Sam figured it was Gil, so she went over to get it.

“Hey Sammy, Sam, Sam!” Gil greeted her.

“Oh hey, Gil!” Sam replied moving backwards as Gil hugged her tightly. She was taken aback by this and stood there awkwardly.

“Oh, sorry, Sammy.” Gil pulled away. “I have just missed you.”

“Uh... that`s okay, Gil!” Sam replied trying to maintain her composure. “So, are we ready to get Flint?”

“Uh, huh.” Gil smiled blushing slightly at the mention of Flint`s name. “I even packed us a little picnic to eat at the zoo!”

“Aww, Gil... You shouldn't have!”

“I just wanted to do something nice after your help yesterday... Oh, and Flint told me about your peanut allergies, so I made sure there wasn't any in here!”

“Thank you, Gil! That is so sweet!” Sam replied feeling grateful by the thoughtful gesture. “Have you and Flint been planning this?”

“No, I just remember Flint mentioning that you had a bad reaction to peanuts a while ago.”

“Aw well, that is very well remembered and thoughtful of you!” Sam smiled making Gil`s face turn pinker.

“So, we going to get Flint?” Gil asked Sam.

“Uh, huh!” Sam replied. “Let`s go!”

10 minutes later, Sam and Gil turned up at Flint`s and knocked on the front door to be greeted by Tim Lockwood.

“Oh, hey Mr. Lockwood!” Sam greeted him. “We`re here to get Flint.”

“Hello, Samantha... Uh, yes. He mentioned that he was going to the zoo with you two.” Tim replied rubbing the back of his bald head. “He`s out back in his lab.”

“Thank you, Tim.” Sam smiled at him as Tim moved aside to let them go inside the house to the backyard.

“Hi, Mr. Lockwood.” Gil smiled shyly as he walked past Tim and followed Sam.

“Hello, Gilbert.” Tim replied before closing the door.

Sam and Gil walked through the Lockwood`s home before entering the backyard where Flint`s lab was situated. They both stepped back in shock as a small explosion occurred within the lab and stared at one another in horror and confusion. Sam ran over to the ladder with Gil following closely behind her and they both began to climb the ladder to the top.

Sam pulled back the blue curtain to reveal a classic scientist`s scene, where bottles of various chemicals lay on the floor and the remains of a small fire which was quickly extinguished by Flint. Flint, however, was covered in black smudges over his face, and his hair was sticking out almost as if he had been struck by lightning.

“Flint!” Sam walked carefully towards him stepping over the spilled chemicals on the floor. “What happened?!”

“Oh, hey Sam!” Flint replied, taking off his safety goggles and placing them on a small table in front of him. “Uhh... Just an experiment gone wrong.”

“Why were you using fire and chemicals?” Sam asked. “That`s dangerous!”

“That`s the whole point in science experiments, Sam. They`re supposed to have some level of danger in them!” Flint replied, going over to the sink to wash his face.

“Yeah, but not to that level!” Sam replied watching Flint wash the black smudges off his face.

“It`s still fun!” Flint called, getting some water in his mouth as he spoke, which made Gil and Sam laugh.

“Anyways, are you ready?” Sam asked with her arms crossed.

“Huh, give me one sec...” Flint combed his hair until it was back into his signature hairstyle. “Steve?”

“Steve!!” Steve, the monkey called from the corner of the room where he was hiding from the explosion.

“Ah, there you are, Buddy.” Flint said. “I thought you had run away.”

“Uh, well judging by that little explosion, you were lucky he didn't run away.” Sam said as Gil giggled.

“Well, that`s true.” Flint replied. “You guys can wait for me outside if you want while I clean up these chemicals...”

“Sure, will do.”

Five minutes later, Flint had finished cleaning up and left his monkey lab assistant in charge of guarding the lab while the three friends left.

Sam, Gil and Flint walked down by the harbor deciding that taking the scenic route to the zoo would be nice. Gil had noticed Flint and Sam walking close to one another and decided to join them barging in the middle of them.

“What sup, ladies?” A familiar voice greeted them, and they turned around in unison to see that Brent was standing behind them.

“Uhh, hey Brent.” Flint replied.

“Gil, where are you going with those Nerds?” Brent asked smirking.

“That`s none of your business, Brent.” Gil replied.

“I was in your group, so technically, I should be hanging out with you guys.” Brent argued.

“Where`d you get that logic?” Flint asked.

“Yeah!” Sam said. “Besides, Brent... You didn't do anything to help us in our group project.”

“Uh, yeah I did goggles.” Brent said. “So, where you going?”

“Hey, don't call Sam that!” Flint said.

Sam stood there amazed as it wasn't like Flint to defend her in front of Brent, and she felt something she had not felt before. Perhaps it was gratitude?

“Easy, Nerdwood.. I was talking to Gil.”

“Brent!” Gil sighed. “I'm taking Flint and Sammy to the zoo. Any more questions?”

“Why?” Brent asked.

“Because, unlike you... They helped me out during the project, so I am taking them out as a thank you.” Gil replied getting irritated by Brent`s presence and turned his back to him. “Come on, Sammy and Flint.”

“Wow, hey!!” Brent tried to catch up to them. “You aint going to the zoo without me!”

“Brent, no!” Gil snapped. “It's just for Flint and Sammy. Not for you.”

“I guess one more wouldn't hurt, right?” Sam said as Flint and Gil stared at her.

“But Sam... It`s Brent.” Flint whispered. “Hell, just ruin it for us.”

“I know but...” Sam whispered to Flint and Gil. “We could easily lose him in such a big place.”

“Ohhh, yeah!” Gil said catching Brent`s attention. “Alright, Brent. You can come but only if you promise to leave Flint and Sammy alone.”

“Yeah, cool... Whatever.” Brent said sarcastically. “Let`s go!!”

(Scene change)

The visit to the zoo had gone smoothly despite the fact Brent had tagged along. However, much to Flint and Sam`s relief, Brent had gone off with his mascot friends once he had seen them, probably because he didn't want to be seen hanging out with Flint and Sam.

They had visited multiple animals, such as gorillas, lions, tigers, monkeys and the newest addition, the Giraffe. As the day progressed, Gil, Sam and Flint had grown tired after walking all day and figured a small break was needed.

Gil had found a picnic bench to sit and have lunch directly opposite where they kept the wolf shark and baboon family. Flint and Sam sat down together while Gil sat opposite them and got the peanut free sandwiches out of his picnic basket as well as a variety of fruits and vegetables. They all sat in peace eating.

“Umm, this is delicious, Gil!” Sam remarked.

“Yeah, it is delicious!” Flint said, taking small bites of his sandwich.

“You`re welcome, guys!” Gil replied, beaming. “I`m so glad you are both enjoying them!”

“We are!” Sam replied, smiling at him, which caught Gil off guard slightly as he stared dreamingly into her emerald, green eyes. Gil couldn't be happier, being with his two crushes was the best thing he could ask for. He knew that he would treasure this moment in his memories.

“Gil?” Sam asked. “You, okay?”

“Huh?” Gil snapped out of his daydream. “Uh, yeah!”

“Good!” Sam smiled as she noticed Gil was now staring at Flint as he ate his sandwich. Sam frowned. Gil had been acting strangely towards her and Flint. Of course, Sam had known that Gil had a crush on her, but she was beginning to think that Gil also had a crush on Flint too. Just then, Gil almost jumped out of his skin as his phone rang. His ringtone was the theme tune to Poppa Piglet and his face turned bright red as he answered it.

“Hello, father!” Gil greeted. “Huh, no... Okay, I`ll be right there! No, you hang up first! Oh, he already did.” Gil looked disappointed as he started to pack the food back into the basket.

“Everything okay, Gil?” Flint asked.

“I`m sorry guys, but mayor dad needs me to go home now.” Gil said looking disappointed.

“Aww, that`s alright Gil!” Sam replied. “We can always do this again another time.”

“Aw, thank you, Sammy Sam Sam!!” Gil beamed. “Really? Did you both enjoy it?”

“Yes!” Flint and Sam said in unison as Gil smiled at them both.

“I am so pleased!” Gil finished packing up as Flint and Sam helped him before they got up to leave the zoo.

Gil had left Flint and Sam alone after hugging them both tightly as the sunset on Swallow Falls. Flint and Sam decided to walk home together once Gil had gone away. They both enjoyed the slow walk back as they admired the sun going down over the Ocean.

They arrived at Sam`s first and stopped to bid each other farewell for another day.

“Uh, Sam?” Flint asked, looking at the ground.

“Yeah, Flint?”

“Can I uh...” Flint stuttered. “Uh, never mind.”

“Can you what, Flint?” Sam asked, looking him in the eye. “What is it?”

“It's just that... I... "Uh...” Flint stumbled over his words, struggling to say what he wanted to ask her but just couldn't. “I just wanted to... Let you know that... Uhh...”

“What is it, Flint?” Sam asked, growing impatient. “What do you wanna ask me?”

“Uh, it`s nothing... I just wanted to say that I`ve enjoyed our time together today.”

“Aw, so have I!” Sam replied noticing that Flint wanted to say something else but couldn't find the words.

“So... I`ll... Umm... See you tomorrow then?” Flint asked, trying to change the subject.

“Flint, what is it?” Sam asked, putting her hand on his shoulder. “I know something is bothering you. Do you want to come in for a bit?”

“It`s alright, thanks anyways, Sam!” Flint replied, still trying to avoid the subject.

“Flint...” Sam paused.

“What?”

“Just tell me what's bothering you. Please?”

“I can't.” Flint replied, trying to avoid eye contact.

“Has something happened?” Sam asked.

“No.”

“Then what is it?” Sam asked. “Flint, you know you can tell me anything.”

“Thanks, Sam. It`s alright.” Flint replied.

“Well, if you wanna talk about something, please don't be afraid to tell me, okay?”

“Thanks, Sam. The same goes for you.” Flint smiled sweetly. “I just wanted to tell you that I have really enjoyed spending time with you and Gil today.”

“Aw, Flint. So have I!” Sam replied pulling Flint in for a hug. Flint wrapped his arms around her as they embraced. Sam had forgotten how good it felt to be in Flint`s arms and didn't wanna let go.

After embracing, they reluctantly separated to bid each other farewell leaving Flint to walk home alone.

Chapter Text

(Cannery High in Earl`s classroom)

Mr. Earl had just finished the second lesson of the day when he let the small number of students leave for the lunch break, five minutes after the bell had rung. They all walked out of class in an orderly fashion as Mr. Earl kept a close eye on Brent and the mascot boys after they had caused a minor disruption before class started.

Students grumbled at Brent and the boys after learning they were the reason why Mr. Earl had kept them back. They walked the empty hallways to the cafeteria where the rest of the school were eating lunch while talking loudly to their friends. Mr. Earls' class formed a small queue at the lunch counter patiently waiting to get served.

Meanwhile, Sam and Flint had already made their way to the few tables that were left to eat their packed lunches. Sitting opposite one another, Sam pulled out a small piece of paper from her school bag and handed it to Flint.

“Oh, I almost forgot to give you this!” Sam said smiling at her best friend.

“Uh, what is it?” Flint asked, taking the paper from her hand.

“It`s an invitation to my birthday party next week!” Sam replied.

“Ah, sweet!” Flint replied as he glanced at it slightly before putting it in his lab coat pocket. “Thanks, Sam!!”

“You`re welcome!” Sam replied. “I thought we could go bowling for the day and then go back to mine for a BBQ!!”

“Ah, cool!” Flint replied.

“Thanks, I`m excited for it.” Sam smiled before eating her salad.

“Who else have you invited?” Flint asked.

“Just you, Manny and Gil.”

“Ah, cool. It's nice of you to ask Gil. He often gets left out a lot.” Flint said as Sam stared at him.

“Are you okay, Flint?” Sam changed the subject as she noticed Flint was not as talkative as he normally was. He wasn't even talking about what he was planning to invent.

“Yeah.” Flint lied.

“Are you sure?” Sam asked. “It's just... you have been very quiet... Is everything okay?”

“I don't really wanna talk about it.” Flint looked at the floor.

“You know I`m always here for you, right?” Sam smiled sweetly. “If there's something bothering you, please let me know. I might be able to help you.”

“It's just...” Flint paused. “It`s coming up to the anniversary of my mom passing away.” Flint replied.

“Aw, Flint.” Sam reached over and squeezed Flint`s hand. “I had no idea. I`m so sorry.”

“Thanks, Sam.” Flint replied trying not to let the tears in his eyes fall. He didn't want to come across as weak in front of his best friend.

“You know that you can always talk to me if you ever need too.” Sam smiled sweetly which caught Flint off guard a little. Her emerald eyes lit up as she gazed into Flint`s.

“Hey guys, do you mind if I sat with you?” Gil asked, interrupting the moment. He was looking down at Sam noticing her hand on Flint`s.

“Of course you can, Gil!” Sam replied. Gil sat next to Flint and noticed he had glistening eyes, but Flint had tried blinking the tears away to avoid interrogation.

“Flint?” Gil asked. “Are you, okay?”

“Yeah, I`m fine.” Flint replied.

Sam made a gesture to Gil to not interrogate Flint any further. Gil took notice of this and began to eat his sandwich.

“Oh, Gil before I forget!!” Sam gave him the invitation to her birthday party. Gil`s face lit up and he beamed.

“Oh wow!” Gil replied. “Thank you, Sammy Sam Sam!!”

“You`re welcome!!” Sam replied. “It`s an invitation to my birthday party.”

“I can see that! Thank you, Sam!!” Gil said. “I never get invited to birthday parties!”

“Ah, it`s nothing!” Sam replied. “I figured it was only fair to invite you seeing as you took us to the zoo!”

“Thank you!”

“Again, no problem.” Sam smiled at Gil and then turned her attention back to Flint who was silent again, staring at the floor.

“I`m just going to step outside for a little bit.” Flint said getting up from his seat.

“Alright, Flint.” Sam replied.

Flint walked out of the canteen and turned left towards the school's entrance as Sam and Gil watched after him.

“Hey, Sam... What`s wrong with Flint?” Gil asked.

“He`s just a little upset because it`s coming up to the anniversary of his mom`s passing.” Sam replied. “He was very close to his mom apparently, so I understand why it is difficult for him.”

“Oh my gosh. I had no idea.” Gil`s eyes widened at the news. “Aw, I feel really bad for him.”

“So do I.” Sam said. “I mean, he told me about his mom a few years ago and I burst into tears just hearing her story. She was the one who gave Flint his lab coat.”

“What happened to her?” Gil asked.

“I don't know the details of what exactly happened but, I do know that Flint was really young when she died.”

“That`s so sad.” Gil said looking down at the ground instantly feeling bad for Flint.

Gil and Sam nearly jumped out of their seats when the bell rang throughout the cafeteria alerting students it was time to go back to class.

“Well, lunch break didn't last long.” Gil remarked packing away his lunch box.

“That`s cos of Brent and his friends delaying us.” Sam sighed as she too packed her lunch away and noticed that Flint had left his.

Sam crossed the table to pack Flint`s lunch away. She figured it would save him the trouble of getting his lunch box when he returned from his walk. From there, Sam and Gil walked out to their next lesson.

By the time Sam arrived, she noticed Flint`s seat was empty. All the other students sat in their designated seats except from Flint. Sam began to worry. Where was he? He was never late to class.

“Alright, class!” Mr. Earl announced. “I'm gonna to do the class registration now. Brent McHale!”

“Yeah?” Brent asked.

“I wasn't asking you a question, Mr. McHale!” Earl said. “Flint Lockwood?”

No answer.

“Flint Lockwood?” Earl repeated once more before looking up from his papers to see that Flint was nowhere to be seen.

“Oh, Mr. Earl!” Sam called. “Flint said he was going outside for some fresh air. He was a little upset.”

“Upset or not, he should still come to class.” Earl said before continuing the register, marking Flint down as late.

A few minutes later, the classroom door opened, and Sam was relieved to see that it was Flint. Earl turned his attention from the blackboard to Flint.

“Alright, class!” Earl said. “Just amuse yourselves for a minute.”

He marched over to Flint and took him outside the classroom to talk to him.

“Flint Lockwood!” Earl said making Flint flinch slightly. “Do you care to inform me why you are late to class?”

“Sorry, Mr. Earl!” Flint replied. “I just needed some time alone and didn't realize the bell had already gone off.”

Earl stared into Flint`s eyes and realized that Flint was filling up with tears.

“Are you okay, Lockwood?” Earl asked patting Flint`s shoulder softly. “You`re rarely late to class.”

“It's just... Coming up to the anniversary of mom`s passing.” Flint replied, avoiding eye contact.

“Oh, I see...” Earl toned his voice down a little and tried to get Flint to look at him. “Do you want me to call your father to come and get you? Or do you want to continue today`s lessons?”

“I'll stay. But thanks, Mr. Earl.” Flint replied.

“Well as long as you`re sure.” Earl replied, smiling at the young inventor.

“Yeah, I`m sure.” Flint returned the smile.

“Alright, Lockwood.” Earl said before opening the door to let Flint inside the classroom. The class stared at him as he walked to his seat.

Sam smiled at Flint as he sat down at his desk beside her.

“Hey, Flint.” Sam whispered. “I got your lunchbox, so you didn't forget it.”

“Thanks, Sam!” Flint replied before taking it from her hands and placing it under the desk.

Earl continued his lessons as the day progressed.

(Scene change)

Flint and Sam were walking home from school as the sun shone brightly over the small island, the waves of the ocean twinkling as the sun`s golden rays reflected onto them. Flint`s mood had improved a little since the morning, and he was grateful his thoughts weren't bothering him. Well for now at least.

They both crossed the road leading to the harbour and walked past the Sardine Cannery towards the pier. It was their favourite place on the island to relax and unwind together. Sam enjoyed spending time with her best friend and found their small talk on the pier therapeutic as she listened to the waves splashing against the wooden beams below.

“I love coming here.” Sam said as she let out a sigh of relief whilst glancing at the white clouds above.

“Yeah...” Flint said glancing at her. He had not really noticed it before, but Sam`s blonde hair looked even more beautiful when it glowed in the sunlight.

“How are you now, Flint?” Sam glanced at him sideways to which she noticed he had been staring at her the whole time. He immediately broke eye contact.

“Better.” Flint replied.

“That`s great!” Sam smiled. “So, did Mr. Earl give you a lecture about being late to class?”

“Uh, no... He was understanding. Especially when I told him why.”

“Oh, I was expecting him to tell you off.”

“Nope. Earl knows about what happened to mom...” Flint paused. He tried to get the thought of his mom out of his head. He didn't want to be reminded of that again.

“Aw, I`m sorry, Flint.” Sam placed her hand on Flint`s shoulder as she edged closer to him, so close they were almost touching. Flint, however, did not seem to mind her being so close to him but instead took comfort in it.

“Thanks, Sam.” Flint said. “But I don't wanna talk about it again.”

“That`s okay.” Sam smiled. “I understand.”

They both sat together closely in silence for a few minutes.

“Hey, Flint?” Sam broke the silence.

“Yeah, Sam?”

“You never told me what you wanted to say to me a few weeks ago.”

“What I wanted to say to you?” Flint asked, his eyebrow raised.

“Yeah... You know, the day we went to the zoo with Gil.” Sam reminded him.

“Oh, that... It was nothing.” Flint glanced at the giant sardine statue ahead of him, trying to avoid the subject.

“Are you sure?” Sam asked.

“Yeah!” Flint reassured her. “Don't worry about it, Sam.”

“Well alright, only if you are sure that something wasn't bothering you.” Sam replied. “We`re best friends, remember? That`s why I asked.”

“Of course!” Flint smiled. “Same with you.”

“Thanks, Flint.” Sam said smiling. “Just if you ever need to talk about anything that is on your mind, please don't feel like you need to keep it to yourself.”

“Yeah, but some things are best kept to myself.”

“Like what?”

“Just strange thoughts I have sometimes...”

“What kind of thoughts?” Sam interrogated him further.

"It's just... I have these strange thoughts that I have never had before. They confuse me. I don't understand what is happening to me. I have gone from someone who couldn't care about anything else except science and inventing to someone who has weird feelings and annoying thoughts.”

“Aw, Flint.” Sam placed her hand on his shoulder. “I get you. I also have strange feelings towards others and thoughts which won't leave me be. You can always talk to me about it.”

“I can't, Sam.” Flint looked away guiltily.

“Flint...”

“No, I can't. Not yet.” Flint said before Sam took his hand in hers and entwined her fingers through his which sent a shiver down his spine. His body froze as the feel of Sam`s hand was gently place into his.

“Flint, please tell me what`s going on.” Sam said. “I won't judge you.”

“It`s easier said than done.” Flint said, closing his hand over hers. “But if you really want to know. Promise me you will wait until I am ready to tell you.”

“I promise.” Sam said. Her mind racing with a thousand different thoughts as to what it could be that was bugging Flint.

“Thank you.” Flint smiled at her as Sam let go of his hand. He instantly felt like a coward. Why couldn't he tell her what was on his mind? It had never been so hard too before. He began to get increasingly annoyed at himself.

“No problem.” Sam smiled.

“Do you have anything on your mind that you wanna tell me?” Flint asked.

“Umm... Not yet, no. Thanks though, Flint!”

“It's okay. I just thought you wanted to tell me something.”

Sam looked at her watch and realized that time had gone by quickly and it was almost 5pm.

“Oh no!” Sam stood up. “It's almost 5pm!! I promised I would spend time with Patootie. You don't mind, do you?”

“Of course not, Sam!” Flint said. “I need to go home for some dinner anyways and feed Steve.”

“Alright, well... I`ll see you tomorrow, Flint!”

“Bye, Sam!!”

They both parted ways as the sun began to set over Swallow Falls.

Chapter Text

(One day later)

Hailstones and gusty winds had returned to the small island of Swallow Falls, making the locals rather miserable. Even though it was May, it had yet to show signs of summer.

Flint was busing himself in his lab, accompanied by his lab assistant, Steve. Monitors lit up the lab, creating a stark contrast to the dark thundery skies outside.

Flint was doing some finishing touches to his latest invention using blue and white paint. It was a device, which functioned as an all-in-one weather predictor. It could measure the air pressure, the speed of clouds and a built-in thermometer to measure the temperature daily. He planned to give his invention to Sam on her birthday and was a little bit nervous, seeing as he was yet to conduct any tests on it. He just hoped Sam would like it.

A few minutes later, Flint was interrupted from his work when his dad came into the lab. His “Tim`s bait and Tackle” shirt was wet from the rain on the short walk from the house to the lab.

“Uh, son?” Tim asked, glancing at the invention on the table.

“Yeah, dad?” Flint replied, looking at the device which lay on the table in front of him before covering it with a tablecloth. He wanted to make it a surprise on the off chance that Sam turned up. Although he doubted Sam would venture out in that weather.

“We have visitors.”

“Who?”

“Uncle Jim, Kim and their baby daughter, Sofia.” Tim replied. “You should come and see them.”

“Uh, dad... can it wait?” Flint asked. “I`ve gotta finish Sam`s birthday present.”

“Now.” Tim crossed his arms and looked sternly at Flint. Flint sighed.

“Fine...” Flint walked away with his dad before looking back, wanting to make sure the invention was covered. “Look after the lab for me, Steve!”

“Steve!!” The monkey`s voice translator exclaimed as he swung from a cable attached to the ceiling.

Flint followed his dad from the lab to the house in a failed attempt to avoid the rain. However, by the time they had reached the house, their clothes had already soaked through causing Flint to take off his lab coat to let it dry on the radiator.

Flint felt bare without his lab coat. He rarely took it off, except when he was sleeping or when it was in the laundry basket. The coat was a comfort, a reminder that his mom was always with him whenever he wore it.

Flint walked into the living room where his dad, Uncle Jim and Kim was. Kim was holding a small baby wrapped in a knitted blanket in her arms. She rocked the baby side to side as the baby slept in her arms peacefully.

“Hey, Uncle Jim and Auntie Kim!!” Flint exclaimed ignoring the fact the baby was sound asleep. Tim tapped Flint on the shoulder and made a hushed gesture looking pointedly at the baby.

“Son, she is asleep.” Tim reminded Flint.

“It's alright, Tim.” Jim replied. “Sofia sleeps through anything.”

“Ah, sorry.” Flint said.

"It`s okay, Flint...” Kim replied, smiling at the young inventor. Flint smiled awkwardly.

Tim, Jim and Kim were catching up on their lives and how things were as Flint nearly fell asleep. He was finding the conversation boring and chose not to participate.

Tim had noticed Flint`s boredom and assumed he was simply unhappy about being taken away from inventing, but this was not the only thing that he had noticed. Over the past few days, Tim had noticed a dramatic shift in his sons' overall mood.

A few hours went by, and Kim, Jim and baby Sofia had decided to leave as the storm was gradually getting worse. Tim and Flint bid them farewell as they left. After closing the front door, Tim turned around and seen Flint taking his lab coat off the radiator before putting it back on. But before letting Flint get back to inventing, Tim wanted to talk to him.

“Son...”

“Yeah, dad?” Flint asked.

“Come here, I want to talk to you.” Tim said, indicating to the sofa.

“Can you tell me later?” Flint argued. “I need to get back to Sam`s present.”

“It'll only take a few minutes.”

Flint folded his arms as he followed Tim to the sofa.

“What is it, dad?” Flint asked impatiently.

“Son, are you okay?” Tim asked. “You seem a little... off.”

“I`m fine, dad.”

“Son... You know I won't leave you at sea without a paddle. I know it is coming up to the anniversary of your mom...”

“Just leave it, dad. I`m fine.” Flint said, crossing his arms and turning away from his dad, trying to hold back his tears.

“Son...” Tim placed his hand on Flint`s shoulder trying to comfort him. Flint couldn't hold it in any longer, still avoiding eye contact with his father. Tim froze as he watched his son break down in front of him, he didn't know what to do.

“I don't know what's happening to me anymore, dad. I have started to get these weird feelings towards... someone. “I also miss mom more than ever.”

Tim was speechless. He had never seen Flint this upset since Fran`s funeral. Moreover, Tim didn't know what to do to comfort his son. Fran was always the one who knew what to say and do but that didn't stop Tim from trying.

“Son... I know how it feels to be your age. You are growing up to become a man and you will begin to feel things a little differently than you did when you were little.” Tim said as he tried to move Flint to look him in the eye.

“I don't know what to do about it.” Flint replied, wiping the tears from his eyes.

Without warning, Tim brought Flint to his chest, wrapping his arms around his son`s slender frame. Flint buried his head in his chest.

“I know it is going to be hard living the rest of your life without your mom. But always know she is looking down on you whatever you do. She will always be here.” Tim smiled as he struggled to form the right words.

“I know.” Flint said. “I just miss her so much, dad.”

“Me too, son.” Tim said. But she isn't gone forever; she will always be here with us. After all, family stick together.”

“Thanks, dad.” Flint pulled away from his father's embrace and wiped his eyes with the sleeve of his lab coat. He instantly felt embarrassed that he had just broken down in front of his dad.

“You're welcome, son.” Tim smiled sadly.

Flint was astonished. He had never known his father to be the supportive type and was grateful for it. Maybe he was right. Flint had to accept that he was changing and perhaps he was changing for the better.

Chapter Text

15th June 2003

Saturday

Rays of sunlight emerged from below the horizon as a new day dawned on Swallow falls. Sam watched from her bedroom window as the sun rose from its slumber. She admired the beauty of the nature around her, well apart from the smoke billowing from the sardine cannery which was situated right next to the Ocean.

Sam had woken up before her alarm and she was excited to start celebrating her fifteenth birthday with Flint and Gil. Even though Sam was two years younger than them, she never tired of being around them.

Suddenly, a loud knock emanated from outside her bedroom door as she was disturbed from her daydream.

“Come in!” Sam called happily, knowing fine well it was her mom.

“Happy birthday, sweetie!!” Claire exclaimed as she opened the door to greet her daughter.

“Thanks, mom!!” Sam smiled.

“I can't believe I have a fifteen-year-old!” Claire remarked. “It seems like yesterday when I first held you in my arms.”

“Aw, mom... Stop.” Sam blushed as Claire cackled.

“Are you excited about the party?”

“Yeah! Of course!” Sam said.

“Who have you invited?”

“Flint and Gil.” Sam replied, eyeing the green dress which was hanging above her closet.

“Who`s Gil?” Claire raised an eyebrow.

“Gil`s the son of the mayor, mom. The one who took Flint and I to the zoo, remember?”

“Aww, that was nice of you to invite him as well! Who else is coming? I just need to know numbers for tonight's BBQ.”

“Just Flint and Gil.”

“Is that it?”

“Yeah... why?”

“I just thought you would have made some friends who were girls too.” Claire said.

“Well, no... Not yet.” Sam glanced down blushing slightly as her mom stared at her.

"Sweetie, I know you enjoy spending time with Flint but there are certain things you can only talk about to other girls. But I know how difficult it is finding friends.”

"I know, mom... But Flint and I have been friends for almost three years now. He was the only one who wanted to get to know me for who I am. The girls at school are only interested in fashion, makeup or boys and that isn't me.”

“I know, sweetie. And I am pleased you and Flint get on so well. I just thought you had some other friends. Who knows, you and Flint might end up being more than friends one day.”

“Mom!!” Sam said embarrassed. “Do you mind?!”

“Well... Just saying!” Claire giggled. “You never know what friendship can lead to! Anyways, best that I let you get ready.”

“Will do, mom. Thanks.”

(Scene change)

It was now 11am and Sam was waiting for Flint and Gil to arrive. Sam wore a light green dress with a black belt wrapped around her waist and black shoes. She had her blonde hair in her signature ponytail with a red scrunchie keeping it in place as well as her brown glasses, making her green eyes resemble emerald diamonds which twinkled in the sunlight.

Across the street, Gil was waiting on the sidewalk for some traffic to clear with a small gift box in his hand, before he caught sight of Sam. He was bewildered by her beauty. She looked even more beautiful than she did at school, and this was frightening Gil a little. Although he had always admired Sam, Gil was gradually leaning towards Flint as a sort of crush but seeing Sam in her green dress made him question his feelings.

Gil somehow got himself in a trance as the road was ready to cross safely, but he hadn't taken any notice of it.

“Hey, Gil!”

Gil nearly jumped out of his skin as Flint came up from behind him. Gil squealed in surprise which made Flint confused.

“You okay, Gil?” Flint asked, as Sam crossed the road to meet them.

“Oh, yeah!” Gil dismissed Flint`s question. “I`m fine, Flint!”

“Hey, guys!!” Sam reached them and noticed that Gil was staring at her.

“Hey, Sam!” Flint greeted her. “Happy birthday!!”

“Aw, thanks Flint!” Sam smiled.

“Ohh, hey Sammy, Sam, Sam!” Gil said excitedly before handing Sam the gift. “Happy birthday!!”

“Aww, thanks, Gil!! That is very sweet of you!!” Sam said as she glanced at Flint who was also staring at her intently. “Are you guys, okay?”

“Yeah, of course we are!!” Flint and Gil said in unison, making Sam giggle.

“Alright... well. Do you wanna go now?!”

“Try and stop me!” Flint replied as Sam and Gil giggled. “Oh, and Sam? I have your present in my lab, I thought you might wanna come and get it after the party?”

“Aww, I am excited to find out what it is!!” Sam smiled. “Sure, we can always go back to yours after the BBQ.”

Gil was feeling a burning sensation inside him. He figured it was jealousy and decided to brush it off.

Together, the three of them walked into the town centre towards the bowling alley. On the way there, Gil noticed Flint was walking very close to Sam and the two were discussing something which Gil couldn't quite understand.

Gil kept interrupting the conversation by asking about the BBQ. He was determined not to let feelings of jealousy ruin Sam`s day. When they reached the bowling alley, Gil wanted to pay for Flint and Sam`s entry as an extra gift for Sam. Flint and Sam insisted that Gil didn't need to do that, but Gil wasn't listening and paid for them regardless of their protests.

After paying, the three made their way to one of the bowling alleys to start their game. Once they had chosen an alley, Flint put their names on the leader's board as Sam went first only to strike on her first try.

“Ooohh, yeah!!” Sam exclaimed. “The first strike for Sparks!!”

“Wowa, Sam!!” Flint said amazed. “Look at you getting a strike already!!”

“Haha, I guess it`s my day today!” Sam beamed as Gil went next. Gil fell backwards while attempting to copy Sam`s move as the bowl ended up rolling backwards towards the arcades. Sam and Flint laughed as Gil`s face turned bright red.

“Opps...” Gil said, embarrassed as he ran toward the arcades to fetch the bowl.

“Go ahead, Flint!” Sam said as he went to take a shot. Little did Sam know; Flint had been researching how to bowl by using a scientific technique.

The games continued far into the day as Sam won once again with Flint following closely behind. Gil was last in the game but did not let it bother him as he knew it was only a game. Whilst handing their bowling shoes back at the counter, Sam glanced at her watch, almost dropping her shoes on the floor.

“Meatballs!” Sam said. “It's almost six thirty!! I told mom we would be back by then for the BBQ!!”

“Don't worry, Sam... I`m sure your mom won't mind us being a little late!” Gil said.

“You`re right, but still... We should make our way back or she will come looking for us.”

“Best get a move on then!” Flint said as they ran through the double doors of the bowling centre, through the streets before arriving at Sam`s house.

The three of them were out of breath as they jogged to the backyard where Claire was getting the BBQ lit up, putting the sausages on first. She looked pointedly at Sam then smiled at Flint and Gil.

“Here`s the birthday girl!!” Claire came over to Sam hugging her. “Where were you? You said you would be home by six thirty.”

“Sorry mom! We got carried away with the games!” Sam said.

“Ah, it's alright, dear!” Claire smiled, glancing Gil up and down. “You must be the son of the mayor, is that right?”

“Uh huh, that`s me.” Gil smiled, offering his hand. “My name is Gil Shelbourne. You must be Ms. Sparks.”

“Please, call me Claire!” Claire smiled, flipping the sausages over on the BBQ before placing them on paper plates.

A few hours later, Gil had to leave the BBQ to go and do some chores for his father, leaving Sam and Flint alone together as Claire left to do the washing up. By then, the sun was dipping below the horizon and some stars were coming out in the sunset sky already with the bright moon threatening to overtake the sun. Sam was admiring the beauty while sitting on a blanket on the grass with Flint sitting close beside her.

“Oh, Sam!” Flint interrupted the silence. Sam smirked. Flint could never enjoy a moment without interrupting it one way or another. “I haven't given you your present yet!”

“Oh, yeah!!” Sam remembered.

“Wanna come back to my lab for a bit?” Flint asked, feeling strangely nervous.

“Sure!” Sam said as she got up from the blanket with Flint following beside her. Before leaving, Flint thanked Claire for the BBQ and Sam told her where she was going.

(Scene change, again)

Millions of stars glistened above them as Flint and Sam walked to Flint`s lab together. The streets of Swallow Falls had become eerily deserted once the sun had gone down, probably because most locals had gone home to wind down for the evening.

The walk to the lab was a little awkward but somehow felt peaceful as neither Sam nor Flint uttered a word to each other. This made Sam a little uneasy as she knew the only reason why Flint was silent was if something was bothering him. However, when they made it to the lab, Sam decided to brush it off as they climbed the ladder to the lab treehouse.

Flint stopped Sam in her tracks before letting her inside.

“Wait, I`d like you to cover your eyes first!” Flint said excitedly as he covered her eyes with his hands before Sam had a chance to answer.

“Okay...” Sam said nervously as Flint led her into the lab with his hands still covering her eyes.

“Alright!” Flint announced from behind her before uncovering her eyes. “Surprise!!!”

“Aww, Flint!!!” Sam replied, frowning a little. “What is it?”

“I was waiting for you to ask!” Flint said. “It's an all-in-one weather device which measures the air pressure, the speed of different types of clouds and a built-in thermometer to measure the temperature daily!!”

Sam was speechless. She didn't know what to say or how to respond to this kind gesture. However, the more Sam was silent, the more Flint was getting nervous. Did she like it or not?

“Sam?” Flint asked as Sam`s eyes lit up with joy.

“Flint, I really don't know what to say!!” Sam smiled happily. “I can't believe you have built a machine just for me!!”

“Well... I didn't know what to get you, so I figured why not make you an invention?!”

“Flint... That is so sweet of you!” Sam ran over to him and hugged him tightly which shocked Flint a little. He was struggling for breath as Sam squeezed him, but he didn't want to complain as it somehow felt right to be in her embrace.

“You`re welcome, Sam.” Flint returned the gesture and wrapped his arms around her slender frame. “I`m so glad you like it!”

“I love it, Flint!” Sam smiled, reluctantly pulling away from the embrace, looking Flint in the eyes. “You really are the bestest friend I have ever had.”

“Really?” Flint asked. “You are mine too. I mean... Best friend.”

“I know what you meant, Flint. Thank you so much for this.” Sam smiled at him sweetly before running over to the present and eyeing it with intrigue.

“Ah, it was no big deal!” Flint said, admiring the fact that Sam took a great interest in the invention he made her. Just then, Sam looked at him in a way that Flint had never seen before. It was the type of look she would give whenever she was in love with something.

It was then that Flint realized he had made Sam a gift straight from the heart.

Chapter Text

(Swallow falls docks, 10 am)

A small group of students lined up on the pier, patiently awaiting the ferries arrival as the wind began to pick up causing the Ocean`s waves to look fierce and menacing. Today was Cannery High`s annual field trip and this time they were going to Halibut Hills, Swallow Falls rival island. Mr. Earl had been tasked with looking after the students during the trip to the island's very own extinct volcano.

Each year, Principal Shelbourne would choose a subject which the students studied and create a trip based on that subject and this year, it was geography after the students had been learning about earth's most explosive phenomena, the volcano. There was however, one problem, Swallow Falls didn't have a volcano, so Shelbourne had turned to a neighbouring island which was notorious for their volcanic structures. Once rivals, Swallow Falls and Halibut Hills made peace during the 1940s when Halibut Hills gifted Swallow Falls Sal, the sardine statue now recognized as a landmark.

The students began to grow impatient waiting for the ferry to take them over to the island and some students were getting worried as the wind was making the waves rougher by the minute. Despite this, Mr. Earl had reassured them that the ferry would be there to pick them up soon and the ferry was notorious for running late.

Gil was starting to feel nauseous already, just by looking at the waves throwing themselves against the Sardine Cannery on the other end of the pier. Unfortunately for Gil, he had suffered from chronic seasickness ever since he was a small boy and knew the trip wouldn't help. Luckily, Gil brought a small bracelet to wear on his hand, used as a remedy to stop the feeling of nausea. The class began to cheer in unison as the small ferry appeared over the horizon sailing towards the direction of the pier.

“Yes!!” Sam cheered. “Here`s the boat coming now.”

“It's about time.” Gil rolled his eyes, crossing his arms.

“Well... Mr. Earl did say it wasn't the best for being early.” Flint replied looking towards the small boat getting closer by the second.

“Ohh, yeah!” Brent called. “The party boat is here!!”

“Mr. McHale, I can assure you, there won't be any partying on this boat!” Earl said with his arms folded.

“I thought that`s what boats were for!” Brent groaned.

“Is he serious?” Sam asked Flint, who shrugged his shoulders.

“It is Brent. He thinks cheese is a vegetable.” Flint replied as Gil laughed a little more than he meant to, making Flint and Sam stare at him.

“Sorry...” Gil paused looking at the floor in embarrassment.

Just then, the boat had pulled up next to the pier as some of the crew prepared the wooden board before pulling it down for the students to climb aboard. The first of the students had boarded before Sam and Flint climbed aboard looking back to see Gil just standing there in a daze. He looked as pale as a sheet. Mr. Earl nudged him to get him moving and when he eventually got onto the boat Sam glanced at him.

“Are you okay, Gil?” Sam asked sweetly.

“Yeah, you look as if you`ve seen a ghost... even though it is scientifically impossible.” Flint said.

“Uh, yeah!” Gil said. “I'm fine. I just suffer from chronic seasickness.”

“Then why did you wanna come on the trip?” Sam asked.

“Do you think I would miss the chance to see an actual volcano?!” Gil replied. “Besides, I have a little bracelet which helps with the symptoms.”

“Well, that`s good to hear.” Sam smiled.

Once everyone was aboard, the boat left sailing towards Sal, the Sardine statue before entering the choppy waters of the Atlantic Ocean.

(Scene change)

It was a rough crossing with the high winds reducing the ferries' speed dramatically, causing problems with the tour's timeslots. Most students spent almost the entire crossing in the boat`s restroom as the boat rocked back and forth with the wave's rhythm. Despite this, they had arrived on the small island of Halibut Hills an hour later than expected which meant the class had to get straight off the boat and onto a minibus without stopping.

Sam was sitting alone before Flint got on the bus and sat beside her. Gil was left alone at the front of the bus sighing as he realized there was only one seat left next to Mr. Earl.

“Aw, I didn't realize Gil had been left out!” Sam said, glancing toward the front of the bus.

“Oh. Neither did I.” Flint replied. “It shouldn't be for long though. I mean, we can see the volcano from where we are.”

“Well, that's true...” Sam frowned. “I can't wait to see the volcano in its natural glory!!”

“Me too!!” Flint said. “Should be interesting considering there aren't any in Swallow Falls.”

What was meant to be a peaceful journey turned into anything but when Brent and the others played music on their phones all the way there which was getting on Flint and Sam`s nerves. It was some kind of rap music which they couldn't make out the words too. Mr. Earl had to keep going to the back of the bus multiple times to remind them to keep it down, which backfired.

A few minutes later, Flint was relieved to find they had reached their destination and more importantly, he wouldn't need to suffer the terrible music again. As soon as the bus stopped, Mr. Earl rushed the students off to keep up with the timing of the tours. The local tour guide welcomed them to Halibut Hills and introduced them to the island's volcano which stood proudly above them, almost as if it were a giant glaring down at them, eyeing its prey.

(More to come in the next episode!)

Chapter Text

The tour guide took the class to the menacing structure standing tall above them. The students resembled a group of ants in comparison to the tall cone-like structure. The tour guide had been telling them all about the formation of the volcano and the part it played in the history of Halibut Hills. The volcano became a symbol of recognition, representing the island as its own landmark.

Flint and Sam were engaged in what the tour guide was saying, both admiring the beauty of the giant structure. The rest of the class, however, didn't seem to be interested in learning about the volcano, but instead, they were more interested in when lunch break was.

The tour guide started walking to the other side of the volcano while Flint and Sam stayed behind to examine it more closely. Gil had noticed they were behind and went to see why they weren't keeping up with the rest of the group.

“It`s fascinating, isn't it?” Flint remarked, eyeing the black rock before picking it up to look at in more detail.

“It sure is!” Sam replied. “I can't decide what's the best part. Is it that we can finally touch it to see how it feels?”

“Or why it formed on Halibut Hills and not Swallow Falls?” Flint added, leaving Sam slightly confused.

“Uh, Flint, Sammy?” Gil jogged towards them, struggling to breathe. “Why`d you stop? The rest of the class are at the other side.”

“We are examining it in more detail, Gil.” Flint replied, picking up another piece of rock before squealing and dropping it on the ground.

“What`s wrong, Flint?” Sam asked.

“It's hot, which is unusual considering the volcano is supposedly extinct and hasn't produced any lava or ash from its magma chamber in the last 10,000 years.”

“Uh, that is strange.” Sam said, glancing at the small rock which Flint had dropped. “Why would it be hot?”

“There is only one explanation for this, but it seems unlikely.” Flint said frowning.

“What`s your theory?” Sam asked. “You don't think they have miscalculated the activity of the volcano, do you?”

“Yeah, I do.” Flint replied.

(Scene change)

Flint, Sam and Gil met the others on the opposite side of the volcano, realizing the tour was already over and it was now lunch break. Flint spotted Mr. Earl sitting an inch away from the volcano and ran over to tell him about his recent discovery.

“Mr. Earl!” Flint reached him as Earl ate his salad. “I have just discovered something amazing but, also kinda shocking too.”

“Flint Lockwood! Where have you been? You were supposed to stay with the tour.” Earl replied sternly. “You too, girl who`s name I can't remember and Gilbert!”

“Mr. Earl... We have discovered something shocking about the volcano! I need to inform the tour guide and the people on this island!”

“What are you talking about, Flint Lockwood?” Earl demanded making direct eye contact with the young inventor for a split second as Flint refused to look at him for longer. Flint had never been able to maintain direct eye contact with someone, let alone his teacher.

“The volcano may not actually be extinct... I have evidence to prove it. There was a hot rock lying on the ground right next to the volcano. It felt as if it came straight from the magma chamber!”

“Flint Lockwood! If this is your idea of a joke, it aint funny. If I find out you have been lying, you will be in detention until my chest hair turns grey! You understand?” Earl warned.

“I wasn't joking, Mr. Earl.” Flint replied as Sam and Gil caught up to him. “We have to warn everyone on the island that the volcano is going to explode soon!”

“Flint Lockwood!” Earl started to lecture Flint but got cut off by Sam.

“Mr. Earl! Flint isn't lying. This is serious and shouldn't be ignored!” Sam replied. Earl appeared to be thinking it over before jumping to his feet, grabbing Flint`s arm and dragging him to the tour guide who was also eating her lunch.

“Well, out with it, Lockwood.” Earl let Flint go before crossing his arms.

“Uh yes! Well...” Flint struggled. “I may have discovered something astonishing about the volcano you were telling us about.”

“Uh, yes?” The woman glanced at Flint.

“I picked up a small rock which was lying next to the volcano, and it was hot, almost as if it came straight out of the magma chamber. I fear the volcano may not be extinct.” Flint explained as the tour guide looked at him with a worried expression on her face.

“Young man, I can assure you the volcano has been declared extinct for over ten thousand years now.” The woman said.

“It didn't feel like it was extinct.” Flint argued. “We need to warn everyone on the island about the potential danger!!”

“I will call the volcanologist team to see if they can investigate this matter further. Thank you for your concern.”

Flint was relieved to hear that he was finally being taken seriously but longed to be a part of the investigation to see if he was right.

“Wow... that went surprisingly well.” Sam came up from behind him, which startled him a little.

“Yeah... but I wanna be there to make sure my scientific calculations were correct.” Flint replied. “Do you wanna join me?”

“Uh, Flint. We`ve gotta get a boat back to Swallow Falls remember?” Sam reminded him. “We can't stay without Mr. Earl.”

“I could ask Mayor dad to come and get us with our helicopter.” Gil peeped up still out of breath.

“Yeah!” Flint said. “What a great idea, Gil!”

“Yeah, that's true. But we would still need to ask permission to stay.” Sam replied, frowning.

“Mr. Earl?” Flint tapped Earl`s arm to get his attention.

“What is it, Lockwood?” Earl asked.

“We wanted to stay to see the investigation unfold. Gil said his dad would come to get us as soon as the investigation is over in his helicopter. But we need your permission.”

“Uh, I`m not sure if I can allow that.” Earl said.

“Mayor dad just said he will come to get us.” Gil held up his phone to Earl and let him read the text message.

“Well, I can't argue with the mayor!” Earl said.

“Yes!! Alright!!!” Flint and Sam high fived each other. “Thanks, Gil!”

“Oh, it was nothing!” Gil replied, blushing slightly.

Earl had left Flint, Sam and Gil with the tour guide and investigation team before getting the rest of the class on the bus to catch the boat at the docks. Flint and Sam were very excited about being a part of the investigation, but Gil was feeling scared. What if the volcano were to erupt during the investigation? He would die, along with Flint and Sam.

(Scene change, again)

Gil watched the ferry sail away gracefully in the distance with the rest of his class onboard, leaving Gil alone with Flint, Sam and the menacing volcanic structure on the island he was sure would be the death of him. On the other hand, Flint and Sam couldn't be happier, both eagerly anticipating the start of the investigation. Gil could tell they were thrilled with being allowed to stay on the island and being part of the examination.

Flint and Sam were both discussing scientific things which Gil could not quite comprehend but he figured it wouldn't hurt if he simply listened. A few minutes had passed before the team of eight volcanologists arrived to conduct a few experiments on the volcano.

“Alright, I have been studying this beauty for several years now and I must say, this is some rather strange information I have been given. Say, do you know how serious this could be if you were correct?” One of the volcanologists asked looking pointedly at Flint.

“I can explain...” Flint started but got cut off quickly.

“No need to explain, young man.” Another one of the volcanologists interrupted. “We have heard about your little theory already.”

Flint didn't like the way they were talking down to him but all he cared about was being proved right. The team quickly assembled their equipment as one by one they moved around various parts of the volcano examining it in more depth.

“Uh, excuse me?” Flint tapped one of them on the shoulder as they worked. “Could we join you?”

“Ha, join us?” The man snarled. “Are you all volcanologists?”

“Well, no... But I am a scientist... well an inventor.” Flint argued. “Besides, I was the one who made the discovery, so it only seems right if I were to help.”

“Just observe then. See how we work.” The man replied glaring at Flint before Sam grabbed Flint`s arm and pulled him back.

“Flint, there's no point in arguing with them. They won't let you near it for your safety.” Sam reassured him.

“But, Sam, we discovered it. It only seems fair if...”

“I know, but we can still observe.” Sam replied as Flint took her advice and stood back to observe.

“Sir! We have found something!!” One of the ladies on the team shouted. “The young man was right!”

“What? Impossible!” The man replied.

“The volcano is active after all! It is at the average temperature of an active volcano!!”

“Told you.” Flint said smiling. He couldn't quite believe he had beaten the volcanologists to the discovery and in doing so, possibly saved thousands of lives with a simple warning.