*label top
*set yr1_07_19_20_1 0
*set yr1_07_19_20_1_1 0
*set yr1_07_19_20_1_2 false
*set yr1_07_19_20_1_a false
*set yr1_07_19_20_1_b false
*set yr1_07_19_20_1_c false
*set yr1_07_19_20_1_f false
*set yr1_07_19_20_1_g false
*set yr1_07_19_20_1_i false
*set yr1_07_19_20_1_j false
*set yr1_07_19_20_1_r false
*set yr1_07_19_20_1_s false
*set yr1_07_19_20_1_t false
*set yr1_07_19_20_1_tc false
*set yr1_07_19_20_2 0
*set yr1_07_19_20_3 false
*set yr1_07_19_20_4 false
*set yr1_07_19_20_4_1 false
*set yr1_07_19_20_4_2 false
*set yr1_07_19_20_5 false
*set yr1_07_19_20_5_1 0
*set yr1_07_19_20_6 0
*set yr1_07_19_20_6_1 false
*set yr1_07_19_20_6_2_b 0
*set yr1_07_19_20_6_2_g 0
*set yr1_07_19_20_6_2_r 0
*set yr1_07_19_20_6_2_t 0
*set yr1_07_19_20_6_2_tc 0
*set yr1_07_19_20_6_3 false
*set yr1_07_19_20_6_4 0
*set yr1_07_19_20_6_5 0
*set yr1_07_19_20_6_5_1 false
*set yr1_07_19_20_6_5_t 0
*set yr1_07_19_20_6_6 false
*set yr1_07_19_20_6_6_g false
*set yr1_07_19_20_7 false
*set yr1_07_19_20_7_1 false
*set yr1_07_19_20_8 false
*set yr1_07_19_20_8_1 false
*set yr1_07_19_20_8_2 0
*set yr1_07_19_20_9 false
*set yr1_07_19_20_10 false
*set yr1_07_19_20_10_1 0
*set yr1_07_19_20_11 false 
*set jumper ""

*set num 0
*set counter 0
*temp food ""

[i]July 19th[/i]

The canvas tents that dot the square are even brighter than usual.
Red, white, and blue pennants hang between the poles and flap about in the breeze.
It'd be easy to forget that you're not back home in the US.

A vendor selling roses calls out to you.
*if (a_rom > 1)
  "Flowers for your
  *if (a_gender = "f")
    lady
  love, dearie?"

  The 
  *if (a_gender = "f")
    lady
  love in question flushes and averts ${a_their} eyes.

  *if (awk >= 57)
    A nervous laugh bubbles up through your lips, and you feel your cheeks heat.
  *else
    You curl your lips into a customer service smile.
*else
  "How about a bouquet to brighten the day, dearie?"  

  "I'll never get used to that," Alex whispers from behind you as you get closer.

  "What?"

  "The British accents.
  I always expect people to sound American."

*fake_choice
  *if (a_feelings = true) 
    #Buy the flowers for Alex. ♥
      *set yr1_07_19_20_1 1
      *set per %- 5
      *set a_rom +1
  *if (a_feelings = false) 
    #Buy the flowers for Alex.
      *set yr1_07_19_20_1 2
      *set a +2
  #Buy the flowers for yourself.
    *set yr1_07_19_20_1 3
  #Buy the flowers for someone else.
    *set yr1_07_19_20_1 5
    *set num 12
  #Buy the flowers for multiple people.
    *set yr1_07_19_20_1 5
    *set num 12
  #Don't buy the flowers.
    *set yr1_07_19_20_1 0

*if (yr1_07_19_20_1 = 0)
  "No thanks," you 
  *if (a_rom > 1)
    decline with a terse smile.

    The older lady's eyes flash with sympathy.    
  *else
    decline.

  "I'll be here all day if you change your mind."

  *if (a_rom > 1)
    When you turn back to Alex, ${a_they}'s engrossed with something at another tent.

    You nudge ${a_them} lightly, and ${a_they} jumps.
    "You ready to go?"

    "Yeah, sure thing, of course."
  *else
    "You know..." you drawl to your friend.

    $!{a_they} raises an eyebrow at you.

    *fake_choice
      #"Just because I didn't buy any flowers, doesn't mean you shouldn't.  You know, if you had [i]someone[/i] in mind."
        *set yr1_07_19_20_1_2 true
        *set af_pos +1
        *set f +1
        *set comp 1
      #"Just because I didn't buy any flowers, doesn't mean you can't."
        *set af_neu +1
        *set comp 2
      #"We should get to it if we want to enjoy anything before it gets hot."
        *set af_neg +1
        *set comp 3

*if (yr1_07_19_20_1 != 0)
  You take a step closer to the vendor's stall.
  Closing your eyes, you inhale a deep breath and allow the fragrant roses to fill your head.
  *if ((yr1_02_05_20_i = 3) or (i > 2))
    *if (yr1_06_14_20_2 = 2)
      It reminds you of Ines' garden.

  The flowers sit in loose bouquets, baby's breath peeking out from between the stems.
  The large blooms have opened fully like a happy smile.
  When you look up at their seller, she obliges you with a rosy smile of her own.

  "What color would you like dearie?"

  *fake_choice
    #Yellow.
      *set var "yellow"
      *set yr1_07_19_20_1_1 1
    #White.
      *set var "white"
      *set yr1_07_19_20_1_1 2
    #Pink.
      *set var "pink"
      *set yr1_07_19_20_1_1 3
    #Red.
      *set var "red"
      *set yr1_07_19_20_1_1 4

  "I'll take the ${var} roses, please," you say to the vendor.

  She bustles about, selecting a fresh bouquet.
  "You don't want one of the displays, dearie," she informs you.
  "Been wilting in the sun too long."
  
  With bouquet in hand, she wraps the flowers in delicate tissue paper and ties a bow around the bunch with a matching lace ribbon.
  You take the flowers and hand over the cash, and the lady chirps her delight at the exchange.

  "Enjoy the festival, dearie!"

  You smile your thanks and step away from the stand.
*if (yr1_07_19_20_1 = 1)
  When you turn around to find Alex, ${a_they}'s engrossed with something at another tent.
  You approach ${a_them} 
  *if (((hum <= 43) or (awk <= 57)) or (cha >= 43))
    with confidence and
  *else
    with butterflies in your stomach.
    Taking a deep breath to settle your nerves, you
  nudge ${a_them} lightly on the shoulder.

  $!{a_they} nearly jumps out of ${a_their} skin.

  *if (((hum > 43) and (awk > 57)) and (cha < 43))  
    You rub the back of your neck.
  "I thought you would like these."

  *if ((var = "yellow") or (var = "white"))
    Alex hesitates a moment before taking the bouquet.
  *elseif (var = "pink")
    Alex eyes the bouquet for a moment.
  *elseif (var = "red")
    Alex looks from the bouquet to ${a_their} feet.
  *else
    *bug
  "They're very pretty.
  Maybe we should put them in the truck?
  You know, so we aren't carrying them around all day?"
  
  Before you can respond,
  *if ((var = "pink") or (var = "red"))
    ${a_they} grabs the bouquet and
  jogs off toward your parking space.
  
*if (yr1_07_19_20_1 = 2)
  Your best friend sidles up to you and pokes you in the side.
  "So who're the flowers for?"

  You stick your tongue out at ${a_them}.
  "They're for [i]you[/i], nosy!"

  "For me?"

  "Yes," you answer, shoving the bouquet into ${a_their} hands.

  $!{a_they} blinks.
  "But why me?"
  *fake_choice
    #"Because you're my best friend, weirdo!"
      You throw your hands up.
      "Because you're my best friend, weirdo!
      Duh!"

      Alex laughs and presses the bouquet to ${a_their} nose, a smile spreading across ${a_their} face.
      "Thank you," ${a_they} says softly.
    *if (a_feelings = true)
      #I smile.  "Because you're my best friend, and I want you to have them." ♥
        *set yr1_07_19_20_1 3
        *set bol +1
        *set a_rom +1
      #I blush.  "Because you're my best friend, and-and I want you to have them." ♥
        *set yr1_07_19_20_1 3
        *set shy +1
        *set a_rom +1
  *if (yr1_07_19_20_1 = 3)
    Alex blinks at you.
    "Oh."
    $!{a_they} presses the bouquet to ${a_their} nose.
  "They're really pretty."

  "I can't take credit for that part," you say with a laugh.

  "I'm gonna take them to the truck.
  I'll be right back."
  Before you can respond, ${a_they} spins on ${a_their} heels and disappears in the direction of the parking lot.
*if (yr1_07_19_20_1 = 4)
  You turn back to your friend.
  "I'm gonna head back to the truck to put these away."

  $!{a_their} eyebrows shoot up.
  "You got those for yourself?"

  *if (cha <= 43)
    "And so what if I did?"
    You cross your arms as best you can, holding the cumbersome bouquet.
  *else
    "Self-care," you retort.

  Alex rolls ${a_their} eyes
  *if (cha <= 43)
    and mirrors your crossed arms.
  *else
    at you.
  "Best hurry along then," ${a_they} adds, sticking ${a_their} tongue out.

  Letting out a laugh, you jog toward the truck to stow your prize.    
*if (yr1_07_19_20_1 = 5)
  *fake_choice
    #"Well [i]one[/i] of them is for you!"
      *set num -1
      *set counter +1
      *set a + 1
      *set yr1_07_19_20_1_a true
      "Well [i]one of them..."
      You pull one of the ${var} roses out of the bouquet and hand it to your best friend.
      "... is for you!"

      Alex takes the rose, a smile lighting up ${a_their} face.
      Pressing it to ${a_their} nose, ${a_they} takes a deep breath.
      "Thank you," ${a_they} says softly, 
      *if (a_gender = "f")
        tucking the ${var} rose into her ponytail.
      *else
        threading the ${var} rose between the buttons of his shirt.

      You return ${a_their} smile.

      "What about the rest of them?"

      You shrug.
      "Guess we'll see."
      Careful not to tear the delicate petals, you comb through the bouquet to count the remaining roses.
      You have 11 left to give away.      
    #I don't tell ${a_them}.
      Your best friend nudges your shoulder.
      "So... who are the flowers for?"

      *if ((((b_rom > 2) or (g_rom > 4)) or (r_rom > 2)) or (t_rom > 1))
        *gosub_scene mechanics_setup flirt_style
        *if (style = 1)
          You smirk at your friend.
          "You'll just have to wait and see."
        *elseif (style = 2)
          "None of your business," you growl.

          Alex laughs at you.
          "Yeah, like I don't already know."
          $!{a_they} pokes you in the side.
        *else
          You look away from your friend to hide your blush before mumbling something under your breath.
          Rushing ahead, you leave Alex scrambling after you.
      *elseif (a_rom = 0)
        A soft smile plays at your lips.
        "You'll just have to wait and see."
      *else
        You shrug.
        "You'll just have to wait and see."

*if (yr1_07_19_20_1 = 5)
  Alex lingers close to the stall, eying the remaining flowers.

  "You know..." you drawl to your friend.

  $!{a_they} raises an eyebrow at you.

  *fake_choice
    #"It would be a nice gesture.  You know, if you had [i]someone[/i] in mind."
      *set yr1_07_19_20_1_2 true
      *set af_pos +1
      *set f +1
      *set comp 1
    #"If you're going to buy any, you should do it now before they wilt in the heat."
      *set af_neu +1
      *set comp 2
    #"We should get to it if we want to enjoy anything before it gets hot."
      *set af_neg +1
      *set comp 3
  "Are you going to buy any?"

  $!{a_they} starts and rubs the back of ${a_their} neck.

*if (comp = 1)
  You shrug and sway from one foot to the other.
  "It would be a nice gesture.
  You know, if you had [i]someone[/i] in mind."

  Alex blushes.
  "I-I dunno..."

  "Well I'm gonna go check out that-that-whatever that is over there," you say, pointing in a random direction.
  You give your friend privacy to make ${a_their} decision.

  When ${a_they} joins you at the—you look up to get a look at what the vendor is actually selling—the [i]cat hair crafts[/i]??
  What the ${fuck}.
  You shake your head and re-focus your attention on your friend to find ${a_them} carrying a single
  *if (var = "pink")
    white
  *else
    pink
  rose.

  $!{a_they} blushes again when you meet ${a_their} eyes.
  "You ready to go?" ${a_they} asks in a voice that's easily an octave higher than normal.

  You pretend not to notice ${a_their} discomfiture.
  "Yeah, let's go."
*if (comp = 2)
  You cock your head toward the flower stand.
  "If you're going to buy any, you should do it now before they wilt in the heat."

  Alex chews on ${a_their} bottom lip.
  "Not today, I think," ${a_they} finally decides.

  You nod.
  "Alright.
  Ready to move on?"

  Alex gives you an affirmative, and the two of you head deeper into the festive crowd.
*if (comp = 3)
  Alex glances between you and the flowers.

  "We should get to it if we want to enjoy anything before it gets hot."

  Chewing on ${a_their} bottom lip, Alex nods.
  "Yeah, you're right.
  Let's go."

  You lead the way through the dense crowd.

*page_break

The people milling about the streets of Talverton buzz with conversation and excitement, their laughter catching on the wind.
As you and Alex weave through the revelers, your own excitement builds.
You get a whiff of the fried street foods the closer you get to the center of the festival, and your stomach rumbles.

Pulling off into the shade of a tall oak tree, you pull a paper map out of your back pocket.
"We're here," you say, pointing to a side street near Judy's bakery.

The vendors have set up shop in Talverton proper, as you already know.
On the banks of the lake, which you saw on your drive in, you'll be able to check out the carnival rides and games.
The lake will also be the best spot to see the fireworks later tonight.

The best spot, that is, if you didn't already own the other side of the lake.
You and Alex have a killer setup on the Darbury side of the water: blankets, snacks, and a cooler.
It's all already there and waiting for you.
There'll be a few other families who bought tickets for the show on the property, but mostly you'll have the place to yourselves.

"So where to next?" you ask Alex.

$!{a_they} shrugs.
"We could just walk around the center for a bit and check out what's here."

You nod.
"Let's do it."

*rand roll 1 2
*page_break

"Oh look!" Alex says, pointing at something to your left.
"Snacks!
I'm starving."

"Are you ever [i]not[/i] starving?" 

Alex elbows you.
"Shut up."

You wander up to the stand—a portable cart with a large, canvas umbrella protecting the man hawking the festival food.
Glancing at the menu, you weigh your options.
No deep fried butter, unfortunately.

*fake_choice
  #I order a hotdog.
    *set food "hotdog"
  #I order a pretzel.
    *set food "pretzel"
  #I order ice cream.
    *set food "ice cream"
  #I don't order anything.

*if (food != "")
  "I'll have 
  *if (food = "ice cream")
    some
  *else
    a
  ${food}," you say to the vendor.
  Snack in hand, you step back to give Alex room to order.
*else
  "I'm good," you say to Alex, who steps up to order something.

"Can I have a pretzel?" ${a_they} asks.

*if (food = "pretzel")
  "Twinsies!" you say with an ironic grin as Alex turns back to you with ${a_their} pretzel.

  $!{a_they} smiles, and the two of you toast to good taste.
  "Clink!" ${a_they} says.
*elseif (food = "")
  "You're going to spoil your appetite," you tease.

  "Spoil it for what?
  We got some big thing planned, hmm??"

  "I don't need your sass, ${alex}
  *if (a_gender = "f")
    Jo!"
  *else
    Ray!"

  "I'll show you sass," ${a_they} grumbles through a mouthful of pretzel.
*else
  You and Alex start stuffing your face full of food, fuel for your exploration, and continue onward.
  
*page_break

As you round the corner, you and Alex stumble across
*if (roll = 1)
  a band setting up.
  One of the guitarists catches your eye and smiles at you.

  *if (a_rom = 0)
    *if (((b_rom > 0) and (g_rom > 0)) and (r_rom > 0))
      *set boo true
    *elseif (((b_rom > 0) and (g_rom > 0)) and (t_rom > 0))
      *set boo true
    *elseif (((g_rom > 0) and (r_rom > 0)) and (t_rom > 0))
      *set boo true
    *else
      *set boo false

  Alex elbows you in the side and whispers,
  *if (boo = true)
    "How is it that you can't leave the house without catching someone's eye?"
  *else
    "I think ${r_they} likes you."

  *if ((((b_rom > 2) or (g_rom > 4)) or (r_rom > 2)) or (t_rom > 1))
    *set boo true
  *if (boo = true)
    *gosub_scene mechanics_setup flirt_style
    *if (style = 1)
      You wink at ${a_them}.
      "Whatever do you mean?"
    *elseif (style = 2)
      You elbow ${a_them} back.
      "Shut up."
    *else
      You look anywhere but at the guitarist trying to catch your eye.
      Gripping your friend tightly by the forearm, you march away from the band.
  *else
    You glance over at the guitarist in question before quickly averting your gaze.
    Best not raise hopes where no hope is possible.

  As you retreat away from them, you hear the slap of a hand against a shoulder.
  "Better luck next time, mate."
*if (roll = 2)
  a mime.
  He's wearing black trousers with suspenders and a white shirt.
  Black lipstick paints his lips into a perpetual smile, which widens into a real smile as you make eye contact.

  Suddenly Alex is gripping your wrist and hissing.
  "We [i]have[/i] to go!"
  $!{a_they}'s steering you away before the mime has a chance to mime.

  With a backwards glance at the disappointed performer, you allow your friend to pull you into ${a_their} flight response.

It's not long before familiar faces push out thoughts of the
*if (roll = 1)
  flirty guitarist
*else
  monochromatic clown
out of your head.

"${name}!"
Sebastian flashes you a smile and beckons you over.

If you thought the flower stand in the market was something, you weren't prepared for the sight before you.
Rows of large clay pots zigzag across the town square, bushy peonies bursting out of them like an escaping prisoner.
Reds, whites, yellows, but mostly pinks.
Pale and soft, bright and loud.
It's like Valentine's Day puked all over everything.

*page_break

And Sebastian's at the center.
"It's our annual peony show," he explains.
"It's our town flower, you know."

You didn't.

*gosub_scene mechanics_setup pet_names_i
"And I will be winning it," another familiar voice announces.
${ines} emerges from the jungle of peonies like the queen of the garden.
Her white linen dress is everything that Sebastian's dirt-stained overalls aren't.

Sebastian's lips curl into the closest thing to a frown you've ever seen on his face.
Crossing his arms, he announces, "Not this time, Ines."

"Which ones are yours?" Alex asks.

With a beaming smile, Sebastian steps toward a monstrous bush with yellow blooms.
You and Alex follow.
"It's this one."

Next to it, a smaller but more shapely bush spills out of its stone pot.
The delicate petals betray a hint of pink, as if someone poured a single drop of pink paint into a bucket of white.
The color concentrates at the center of the ruffled bloom like an invitation to take a closer look.

You take a step closer to examine it, and suddenly ${ines} is at your side.

*if (ines = "Ines")
  "Aren't they pretty?" she coos over her creation.

  "Very," you agree easily.
*else
  "Be careful, please," she says in a clipped tone.

  *if (yie <= 43)
    You frown and repress the sudden impulse to push the pot over.
  *elseif (gen <= 43)
    You roll your eyes but keep your distance.
  *else
    You shrug noncommittally.
    What is she expecting you to do?
    Set it on fire?
    
"Don't tell me you've defected to the other side?!" Sebastian's distressed voice cuts through your
*if (ines != "Ines")
  non-conversation
*else
  conversation
with ${ines}.

*if (ines != "Ines")
  "As if," you mutter under your breath.
"Just taking a look at ${ines}'s peonies."

She rakes her narrowed eyes over the competition, sizing Sebastian and his peonies up like a squirrel trying to intimidate an oak tree.
Fortunately for this squirrel, however, the oak tree in question is quite averse to confrontation.
Throwing his hands up in the air in defeat, Sebastian turns his back to the older lady and resumes arranging his yellow blooms.

*if (ines = "Ines")
  Ines turns back to you and smirks.
  "Men are very simple creatures," she whispers to you.

*page_break

Before the tension between the two horticultural rivals can rise further, Daisy arrives on the scene.

Sebastian's sunny smile returns.
"There's the prettiest flower in the show!"

Daisy's melodious laugh rings out in delight at her husband's flattery.
Handing Margot over to Sebastian, she turns to you.
"Are these two getting into it again?"

*set boo false
*if ((yr1_03_14_20_2 = 2) and (yr1_07_04_20_1 = 2))
  *set boo true
*elseif (yr1_06_14_20_2 = 4)
  *set boo true
*elseif (yr1_07_04_20_1 = 1)
  *set boo true

*fake_choice
  #I let out a nervous laugh.
    *set awk %+ 5
    You let out a nervous laugh and fiddle with your hands.

    Daisy squeezes your shoulder.
    "Don't worry.
    I'll whip them into shape."

    ${ines} pulls her face into a pinched expression.
    Arms crossed, she throws her head back and attempts to look down her nose at the interloper.
    
    Daisy winks at you.

    "Why is Mrs. Duchamp angry?" Eddie asks.

    Daisy's eyes sparkle and she whispers loudly.
    "She's not [i]angry[/i]—she's scared!"

    "You take that back!" ${ines} hisses.

    You grimace, already dreading the confrontation.

    "Why's she scared, mom?"

    The older lady practically boils with rage.
    "I. Am. [i]Not[/i]. Scared."

    Eddie's eyes widen, and he looks between you and Daisy for a cue.

    "Maybe she's not, but I am," you whisper to him.

    Sebastian spots one of the judges, and ${ines} with her hawk like scrutiny disappears.
  #"I'll just say I'm glad to have backup," I say.
    *set dir %- 5
    *set hum %+ 5
    You sigh.
    "I'm just glad to have some back up."

    Daisy laughs.
    "Oh honey, you have misjudged me.
    I'm here to stoke the flames!"

    You chuckle.
    "Maybe I should get some popcorn."

    "That's the spirit!"

    "I want some popcorn!" Eddie interjects.

    "Maybe during the fireworks, honey."
  #"Is it always like this?" I ask.
    *set gen %+ 5 
    You look between Sebastian and ${ines} who are squaring off again, ready for battle.
    "Is it always like this?"

    Daisy nods.
    "Every year."

    "What's every year?" Eddie asks, pulling at his mother's arm.

    "Battle royale," she answers.

    "There's gonna be a battle?!"

    You suppress a chuckle.
    Pointing at the rivals, you answer in a stage whisper.
    "We're in the midst of one already."

    Eddie's head whips around to watch his dad and ${ines} prepare for war.
  #"I really don't see the appeal of competing," I say.
    *set yie %+ 5
    You toss your hands up.
    "I really don't see the appeal of competing."
    Especially over flowers, you [i]don't[/i] add.
    How do these people cope with the high blood pressure and indigestion?

    Daisy shrugs.
    "Me either, really.
    But on the other hand, it makes a great show for the rest of us."

    "There's going to be a show?" Eddie asks.

    "I sure hope so," his mother replies with a laugh.

    He turns his attention on you.
    "Are you going to go,
    *if (boo = true)
      ${name}?"
    *else
      ${mx} ${last_name}?"

    A wry smile forming at your lips, you respond, "I think I've already been."

*if (boo = true)
  When you feel something tugging at your shirt, you turn around to see Summer.

  *if (yr1_06_14_20_2 = 4)
    "Are we gonna play hide and seek again?"

    Daisy intervenes.
    "Not today, honey.
    ${name} is here to spend time with ${their} friend, and we're here to spend time with each other."
  *elseif ((yr1_07_19_20_1 = 5) and (num != 0))
    "Those are pretty," she says, pointing at your roses.
    "Can I have one?"

    "Summer Michelle," her mother warns.
  *else
    "Do you like my dad's flowers?"

    "They're very pretty," you affirm.

    "He never lets us have any."
    Her little pout is funnier than pitiful, but you hold your laugh, especially after Daisy shoots her daughter a look of warning.
*else
  Another familiar face appears behind Daisy's skirts.
  "Hi, Summer," you say with a smile.

  "Hi," she mumbles back.

  "Are you enjoying the festival?"

  Daisy's skirt bunches up in the little girl's grip, and she mumbles, looking away from you.
  *if (num != 0)
    As you and Daisy continue to chat, you notice Summer's intent gaze on your bouquet.

*if (num = 0)
  You and Daisy continue to chat until you feel it's time to uproot yourself and continue to explore the festival.

*if (num != 0)      
  Do you want to give Summer a rose?
  If you do, it's only fair to give one to each member of the More family.
  *fake_choice
    #Give roses to the Mores.
      *set yr1_07_19_20_1_s true
      *set num -5
      *set counter +5
      *set s +1
    #Give roses to the Mores [i]and[/i] ${ines}.
      *set yr1_07_19_20_1_i true
      *set yr1_07_19_20_1_s true
      *set num -6
      *set counter +6
      *set s +1
      *set i +1
    *if (num = 12)
      #Give the bouquet to the Mores.
        *set yr1_07_19_20_1 6
        *set num 0
        *set s +2
      #Give the bouquet to ${ines}.
        *set yr1_02_05_20_i 6
        *set yr1_07_19_20_1 7
        *set num 0
        *set i +2
    #Keep the roses for someone else.
      You smile sheepishly at her.
     
      "Don't mind her," Daisy says to you.
      "We are very well aware that asking people to give us their things is rude, aren't we?"

      Summer wrinkles her noise and looks down at her shoes.
      "Yes, ma'am," she mumbles.

      "Now go find your brother."
      Summer is more than happy to obey.
      "Now [i]you[/i]," she adds with a smile, "get out off here before my husband gets you involved with the peonies!"

      You smile and thank her.

*if (yr1_07_19_20_1 = 6)
  You smile at Summer as you hand the bouquet of ${var} roses to her mother.

  Daisy's eyes widen.
  "What are these for?"

  You shrug.
  "A thank you, I guess.
  Thank you for helping me get started."

  Daisy pulls you into a hug, squeezing the air out of your lungs.
  It takes you a moment to remember to return the gesture.
  It's been so long since you got a hug from your mom that you almost tear up at the genuine maternal gesture.
  Do they pull moms aside at the hospital and teach them how to give mom hugs?

  "They're very pretty," Daisy says, releasing you.
  "Thank you."

  You rub the back of your neck and smile.
  "You're welcome."

  "Eddie, Summer, what do you say?"

  "Thank you," they intone together.

  Daisy calls Sebastian over and shows him the bouquet.
  "Aren't they pretty?"

  Sebastian nods and beams.
  "Very.
  Thank you, ${name}."

  You nod again, beginning to feel overwhelmed by the attention.

  Alex steps in to take the heat off of you.
  "Do you guys have any special plans for the day?"

  "Just winning the peony show," Sebastian jokes.
  [i]Is[/i] it a joke?

  The four of you continue to chat while the kids scamper around until it's time to move on.

*if (yr1_07_19_20_1_s = true)
  You look to Daisy and smile to indicate that it's okay.

  Threading one of the roses out of the bouquet, you kneel down on one knee so that you're at eye level with Summer.
  You present her with the ${var} rose, and she takes it with a dazzling smile.

  She reaches out to hug you.
  "My daddy never lets me take his roses," she whispers in your ear.

  You nod.
  "My grandmother doesn't like it when I take her flowers either.
  If you're very careful with this one, you can press it and keep it forever."

  She nods at you, accepting your solemn quest before flouncing off to show off her prize to her father.

  You pluck a second rose from your bouquet and present it to Eddie.
  The boy stutters, looking down at the ground and swinging his arms at his side.

  "Boys deserve flowers, too, you know." 

  He looks up at you with a crooked grin and takes your rose.
  "Thank you," he squeaks.
  Running after his sister, he adds his praises of you to her own.  

  "That was very kind of you," Daisy says.

  You shrug, pulling out another rose.

  "Oh!
  No, I couldn't pos—

  "You could definitely," you insist, shoving the flower into her hands.

  "What's this I hear?" Sebastian interrupts.
  "First you displace me in the hearts of my children, and now you're trying to seduce my wife?"

  When you present the mayor with a rose of his own, a deep and satisfying blush rises to his cheeks to accompany his smile.
        
  You offer another to the toddler in his arms, and she accepts it.
  Her smile is short lived, however.
  When she makes to take a bite, Daisy steps in and confiscates Margot's newest most favorite possession.
  Thankfully her distress lasts only as long as it takes for her to notice
  *if (roll = 1)
    a
  *else
    the
  mime down the street.

  *if (yr1_07_19_20_1_i = true)
    *page_break
    Alex chats with the Mores while they enjoy their flowers, and you slip away to give one to ${ines}.
    She's guarding her peony bush like a rottweiler with a bone.

*if ((yr1_07_19_20_1 = 7) or (yr1_07_19_20_1_i = true))
  *if (ines = "Ines")
    She smiles at you as you get closer.
  *else
    She eyes your approach suspiciously.

  *if ((cha >= 57) or (gen <= 43))
    "You have a lovely bush," you manage with a straight face.
  *else
    "Your peonies are lovely," you offer.

  *if (ines = "Ines")
    "Thank you, ${name}.
    Don't listen to what that [i]politician[/i]—" she spits the word "—says.
    [i]I[/i] am going to win."

    *if (gen >= 57)
      "I don't doubt it."
    *else
      You nod.
      "Good luck."

      She scoffs.
      "I don't need [i]luck[/i]."

      *if (gen <= 42)
        Chuckling, you retort, "Bad luck then."

        The older lady rolls her eyes at you, but you see the smile peeking through her grumpy façade.
        *if (g_rom > 3)
          *gosub_scene mechanics_setup flirt_style
          You see where her grand${g_child} gets it, and the thought of ${g_them}
          *if (style = 1)
            makes you smile.
          *elseif (style = 2)
            draws your features into a pinched grimace.
          *else
            makes your insides flutter.
          
  *else
    Raising an eyebrow at you, she responds.
    "Thank you."

    The conversation might have died there except that you offer her the
  *if (yr1_07_19_20_1 = 7)
    bouquet of roses.

    *if (yr1_02_05_20_i = 6)
      Surprise brightens her eyes, and she takes the bouquet from you dumbly.
      "They're very nice."
      Her tone is flat, confused, like she doesn't quite know what's happening.

      You pull at your ${tic}.
      "I thought you'd like them."

      "I do," she agrees.

      "Well...
      Good luck with the show."
    *else
      Her eyes light up with delight and surprise.
      "Oh!
      How nice!"
      
      "I thought you might like them."

      "Oh, I do, but are you 
      *if (yr1_02_05_20_i = 3)
        sure you don't want to give them to [i]someone[/i] else?"

        *if (awk >= 55)
          You laugh awkwardly.
      *else
        sure?"
        
      "Yeah, I'm sure."

      She presses the bouquet to her nose and takes a deep breath.
      "Then I accept."  
  *elseif (yr1_07_19_20_1_i = true)
    rose.

    *if (ines = "Ines")
      Her eyes light up with curiosity.
      "For me?" she asks.
    *else
      She takes the rose from you as if she expects to find a thorn.
      After staring at it for a second too long to be comfortable, she asks, 
    "But why?"

    You shrug.
    "Why not?"

    Pressing the rose to her nose, she smiles.
    "Oh.
    Thank you."
  *else
    *bug

  "Fraternizing with the enemy again, I see," Sebastian says, interrupting your tête-à-tête with ${ines}.

  Ines rolls her eyes, and you make to leave before you can get pulled into their kerfuffle.
        
*page_break          

Before you can slip away, Sebastian flags you down again.
Ines, standing behind the two of you, watches your interaction with interest.
The mayor's grin is larger than usual, and the hairs on the back of your neck stand up in apprehension.

"I'm so glad you could make it to our little flower show."
He places his hand on your shoulder, every bit the dad.
"You know, one of the components the judges use to determine the winner is popular vote."

Your eyebrows shoot up.
You see where this is going.

${ines} harrumphes from behind you.

"Don't think you can bully the child into voting for your-your [i]woebegotten[/i] peonies!
They're [i]yellow[/i], nom de Dieu!"

"Yellow is a happy color!" Sebastian retorts.

They lock eyes with each other, at a standstill, until Sebastian turns back to you, thrusting a card into your hand.
Alex, eyes wide, checks out before ${a_they} can be roped into it.

"Who's it gonna be?" the mayor asks.

*fake_choice
  #I vote for ${ines}'s well kept, white peonies.
    *set yr1_07_19_20_2 1
    *set i +1
  #I vote for Sebastian's bushy, yellow peonies.
    *set yr1_07_19_20_2 2
    *set s +1
  #I vote for both.
    *if (cha >= 59)
      *set yr1_07_19_20_2 3
      *set i +1
      *set s +1
    *else
      *set yr1_07_19_20_2 4
  #I vote for some other peonies.
    *set yr1_07_19_20_2 5

You take the card, avoiding eye contact with
*if (yr1_07_19_20_2 = 1)
  Sebastian
*elseif (yr1_07_19_20_2 = 2)
  ${ines}
*else
  both of them
as you put a small check mark next to
*if (yr1_07_19_20_2 = 1)
  his rival's name.
*elseif (yr1_07_19_20_2 = 2)
  her rival's's name
*elseif ((yr1_07_19_20_2 = 3) or (yr1_07_19_20_2 = 4))
  their names.
*else
  a random person's name.
  Good luck, Robin Wallace.

You hand the card back to Sebastian
*if (yr1_07_19_20_2 != 2)
  and try to scuttle away before he can see your treachery.

  *if (yr1_07_19_20_2 = 1)
    As Sebastian's smile wanes, his competitor's waxes.

    "I told you!" she crows.
    *if (ines = "Ines")
      "${name}
    *else
      "${mx} ${last_name}
    prefers [i]mine[/i]!
    It's an [i]international[/i] mandate!"
  *elseif ((yr1_07_19_20_2 = 3) or (yr1_07_19_20_2 = 4))
    His brows furrow.
    "${name}, you can't vote for [i]two[/i] people."

    You grin.
    "But they're both, so, [i]equally[/i] lovely."

    *if (yr1_07_19_20_2 = 3)
      *achieve peony
      "But there can only be [i]one[/i] winner," Sebastian protests.

      "Is it [i]really[/i] about winning, though?" you counter.

      "Yes!" the two competitors respond in unison.

      "Well I for one think that we, the spectators, are the real winners here."

      When the two look back at you with blank, marble-like expressions, you continue.
      "Since we are the ones who get to enjoy the fruits of your labors."

      Sebastian smiles at you, pulling you into a crushing hug, and 
      *if (ines != "Ines")
        even 
      ${ines} cracks a 
      *if (ines != "Ines")   
        reluctant 
      smile 
      *if (ines != "Ines")
        before quickly repressing it under a stony façade.
      *else
        at you.

      When Sebastian lets go, he turns to ${ines}, and you quickly make your escape before the conflict reignites.
    *else
      "$!{theyre} just being nice," ${ines} announces.
      "${name} obviously likes mine better, as any objective person would."

      Sebastian and ${ines} dissolve into further recriminations, and you take the chance to slip away.
  *else
    "Robin Wallace?!" he huffs.
    "Who's that?"

    You shrug.
    "But I'm sure their peonies are lovely.
    Just like yours."

    "If mine are lovely, then why didn't you vote for them?"
*else
  and flash an uncomfortable grimace-smile at ${ines}.

  Sebastian beams at you, reaching out to shake your hand in all his mayoral glory.
  "You've made the right choice, ${name}."

  Rubbing the back of your neck, you nod along and shoot a look at Alex that ${a_they} promptly ignores.

*if (yr1_07_19_20_2 != 3)
  Daisy swoops in for the rescue.
  "Leave the poor baby alone!"

  What's with people cosseting you today?
  *if (yie <= 43)
    You almost object, until you remember that Daisy is trying to save you from the not so civil war taking place among the peonies.

  Sebastian flushes with embarrassment.
  "Sorry, ${name}."

  *if (ines = "Ines")
    "Look what you've done now!" Ines says, gesturing wildly in your direction.
    "You've upset ${them}!"

    Sebastian points at himself, eyebrows shooting up.
    "[i]Me?![/i]

    Squeezing your shoulder, Daisy leans toward you.
    "Get out while you can, honey."

    You don't need to be asked twice.
  *else
    Mrs. Duchamp mumbles what you assume, especially when she won't look you in the eye, is a similar apology.
  
*page_break
  
You catch up with your best friend a street and a half later.

$!{a_they} looks you over.
"Didn't eat you alive then?"

You roll your eyes.
"They said I was too chewy."

"Better you than me."

"Some friend you are!"

The two of you are headed toward the lake.
Although the humidity and movement of the crowd makes you feel sticky, the breeze picks up the closer you get to the water.

The cartoonishly bright colors of the carnival rides stand out against the staid palette of the old village, like a clown in a ballroom.
The delighted screams of children, and even adults, being swung about on spinning metal contraptions reaches your ears.
Your stomach drops at the sight of some of the rides.

*fake_choice
  #I am excited.
    Excitement bubbles up in your stomach as you look at all the rides.
    You're already calculating how long each line will take.
  #I am nervous.
    Anxiety prickles at your stomach.
    How safe are those rides anyway?
    They look like they could fall apart at the slightest provocation.

    *if (a > 5)
      Your friend's voice pulls you out of your reverie.
      "You alright?"

      Shaking off your nerves, you nod.
      "Ready to climb into one of those tin cans?"

      Alex laughs.
      "You know it!"

Unbidden, memories of the country fair rise up in your mind.
It always rained.
Unless, of course, there was a tornado.
Then it was inexplicably dry.
Windy (and deadly), but dry.
Your mom used to joke that in the middle of a drought, all you needed to do was schedule the fair.
It seemed to follow the nomadic carnival like a loyal dog.

Apparently that was only in Kentucky, though, because there isn't a cloud in the sky over Talverton.

"So what do you want to do first?" you ask Alex.

$!{a_they} looks around at the rides, glancing down at the map to get a better idea of what's what.
"I definitely want to ride the ferris wheel."

You nod.
*fake_choice
  #[i]Great[/i].  Heights.
    *set yr1_07_19_20_3 true
    You tense up, barely repressing a frown.

    Alex pats your shoulder.
    "I'll be fine on my own, if you want to keep your feet planted on the ground."

    "Thanks, I'll think about it."
  #"Sounds fun," I agree.
    You look up at the ferris wheel.
    The sunshine washes out the lights that outline the ride, but you can imagine the social media-worthy sight it'll make after the sun goes down.

    "Sounds fun."

As the two of you are contemplating what to tackle first, your eyes land on the freckled face of your neighbor and her younger ${f_sib}, the height different even more pronounced in a crowd of people.
*if ((af_pos > 0) and (a_rom < 2))

  You elbow Alex in the side and gesture to the pair.
  "Look who it is," you say in a singsong voice.

  Alex's grip on the map tightens, wrinkling the paper where ${a_their} hands grasp it.
  $!{a_their} voice faltering, ${a_they} says, "It's hardly a surprise to see our neighbors at a neighborhood event."

  You roll your eyes at ${a_their} deflection.
  "Whatever you say."

  You whoop and wave to get Charlie's attention, and her face lights up when she notices you.
*else

  The object of your observation looks up and notices your notice, a grin breaking out across her face.
She bounces over to you, dragging Frankie behind her.
"Well would you look who it is!"

"The one and only," you answer with a matching grin.
"What brings the two of you out of seclusion?"

Frankie rolls ${f_their} eyes, but Charlie is the one who answers.
"I'm here for the food."

"To no one's surprise," Frankie adds.

Jabbing Frankie in the side, Charlie mumbles something into ${f_their} ear that evokes a blush.

*if (num > 0)
  You still have ${num} roses left.
  Do you want to give any to the squabbling siblings?

  *fake_choice
    #Give Charlie and Frankie roses.
      *set yr1_07_19_20_1_c true
      *set yr1_07_19_20_1_f true
      *set num -2
      *set counter +2
      *set c +1
      *set f +1
      Clearing your throat to get their attention, you pull two roses out of the bouquet and hand them over.
      The fighting ceases immediately, and a pause that threatens to become awkward overtakes the four of you.
      *if ((cha <= 44) or (dir >= 56))
        "Well are you gonna take them or not?" you ask.
      *elseif (awk >= 56)
        You thrust the flowers into their hands.
      *else
        "Not a fan?"

      Frankie overcomes ${f_their} surprise first and takes the flower with a soft smile.
      "Thank you."

      Charlie accepts the second.
      "That's really nice, ${name}," she agrees. 
    #Don't give Charlie and Frankie roses.
      Alex clears ${a_their} throat, and the two siblings stop fighting mid-sentence.
      They glance at Alex before locking eyes with each other, some telepathic communication taking place right under your nose.
    
      Charlie grimaces.
*if (c > 3)
  "You'll have to forgive our bad manners."

  Frankie barks out a laugh.
  "Yeah, we were raised by wolves."

  Charlie glares at ${f_them}, elbowing ${f_them} in the side for good measure.

  "Yeah, because [i]that[/i] doesn't prove my point or anything," ${f_they} snorts.  

  She elbows Frankie again, earning a glare.  
*else
  "Sorry." 

"So where are you guys headed?" ${f_they} segues.

*fake_choice
  #"Alex and I were gonna check out the ferris wheel.  You wanna come?" I invite.
    *set yr1_07_19_20_4 true
    *set a +1
    *set f +1
  #"I hear there's a pie eating contest hereabouts," I say.
    *set yr1_07_19_20_5 true
    *set c +1

*if (yr1_07_19_20_4 = true)
  You look back at Alex to see if ${a_they} has any objections.
  "Alex and I were gonna check out the ferris wheel.
  You wanna come?"

  Charlie frowns.
  "That sounds fun, but the pie eating contest is starting soon, and I really want to check it out."

  "Well you can count me in," Frankie says.
  "Meet up later for the fireworks, ducky?"

  "Yeah!
  Have fun on the ferris wheel!"

  *if (yr1_07_19_20_3 = true)
    You gulp down your nerves.
    *if (af_pos > 0)
      You're doing this for your friend.

  *page_break

  The three of you set off toward the ferris wheel, 
*if (yr1_07_19_20_5 = true)
  You look back at your friend
  *if ((per >= 59) and (af_pos > 0))
    who's making eyes at Frankie
  and make a decision.
  *if (yr1_07_19_20_3 = true)
    It doesn't hurt that you won't regret keeping your feet on the ground where they belong.

  "I heard there's a pie eating contest hereabouts."

  Charlie's face blooms into a smile.
  "There is!
  And it's starting soon!"

  *if (yr1_07_19_20_3 = true)
    "Perfect," Alex says.
    "You can check out the pie while I'm up in the air."
  *else
    "You wanna check that out while I do the ferris wheel?"

  "Sure you don't mind the defection?" you tease.

  $!{a_they} rolls ${a_their} eyes.
  "I think I can get by without a babysitter for an hour."

  Frankie grins.
  "Worry not, ${name}, I can take over for you.
  I've got plenty of experience wrangling troublemakers."

  *if (per >= 56)
    Alex flushes and smiles.
  So that settles it!
  You'll head to the pie eating contest with Charlie while Frankie and Alex check out the ferris wheel.

  *page_break

  You and Charlie turn to head in the opposite direction,
weaving between people, rides, and games.

"A carousel!" you say as the whimsical ride comes into view, a small smile tugging at your lips.
"I can't remember the last time I got to ride one.
There are a few in New York, but I never went."

You frown as something like regret pulls at your heartstrings.
Growing up really isn't so glamorous as it seemed.
And not nearly as shiny and exciting as a carousel.

"Do you want to ride it?" 
*if (yr1_07_19_20_4 = true)
  Alex asks
*if (yr1_07_19_20_5 = true)
  Charlie
asks.

You shake your head.
"Nah, it's okay."

"Are you sure?"

"Yeah," you say, with a swish. 
"Let's go."

*page_break

*if (yr1_07_19_20_4 = true)
  As you get close to the ferris wheel, it's even larger than you had originally anticipated, and
  *if (yr1_07_19_20_3 = true)
    your heart pounds in your chest like a galloping horse.
  *else
    you crane your neck upwards to get a good look at it.
  The three of you head to the end of the line and take your place.

  "So what do you think of our little festival?" Frankie asks with a charming smile.

  Alex smiles but  
  *if (per >= 59) 
    wrings ${a_their} hands.
  *else
    doesn't answer.
  *if ((af_pos > 0) and (per <= 45))
    You lay a comforting hand on your friend's shoulder, and you feel the tension in ${a_their} body ease a fraction.

  *if (yr1_07_19_20_1_2 = true)
    "It's real nice, especially the [i]flowers[/i]," you say with a meaningful look directed toward your friend.
    "Don't you think, Alex?"

    "Flowers?" Frankie asks.
    The corners of ${f_their} mouth curl up into a curious smile.

    $!{a_they} responds with panicked look, and you nudge ${a_their} shoulder.

    "We ran into a flower stand when we got here, and I, well I-I bought this?"
    
    "You don't sound certain," Frankie teases.

    "Do you want it?" Alex offers hesitantly.
    *if (yr1_07_19_20_1_f = true)
      "You know, to go with your ${var} one."

    "I'd be honored," Frankie responds.
    $!{f_they} steps closer and grabs the stem of the rose, locking eyes with your friend.
    "Very
    *if (a_gender = "f")
      pretty," he
    *else    
      nice," she
    says.

    Alex blushes.

    *if (a_rom > 2)
      A sort of emptiness that you don't want to examine too closely opens up a hole in your heart.
  *if (yr1_07_19_20_1_2 = false)
    "It's a lot like the county fair," you peep up, saving Alex from the necessity of finding a response.
    "More food here though."

    "More good food, anyway," Alex joins.
    "Real food."

    "What, do they feed you [i]fake[/i] food in America?"

    Alex laughs.
    "Yeah, basically."
    $!{a_they} turns to you.
    "You remember those pre-made peanut butter and jelly sandwiches they used to give us at lunch?"

    You wrinkle your nose, a gesture Frankie copies.
    "I was trying to forget."  

  *page_break  

  Finally the line snakes around to the front, and a bored teenager motions the three of you forward.
  The bright purple pod has two metal benches facing each other.

  It sways in the breeze, and when you begin to climb into the cab, the metal creaks under your weight.
  *if (yr1_07_19_20_3 = true)
    You knew this was a bad idea!

  *if (f > 2)
    Frankie reaches a hand out to steady you, earning a smile from Alex.
  *else
    Alex places a steadying hand at your elbow and guides you to the seat.
  You grab onto a metal rod to allow the little cage to stop swaying before taking a seat.

  *fake_choice
    #I wait for Alex to sit down and sit on the opposite side.
      *set af_pos +1      
    #I sit down first and let the chips fall where they may.
      *set af_neu +1
      You sit down and slide into the corner of one of the empty benches.
    #I wait for Alex to sit down and then sit next to ${a_them}.
      *set yr1_07_19_20_4_1 true
      *set af_neg +1

  Alex is the next to climb into the pod, 
  *if (yr1_07_19_20_4_1 = true)
    with a helping hand from Frankie.
    After ${a_they} takes a seat on one of the empty benches, you slide in next to ${a_them}, leaving the opposite side for Frankie.
  *if (yr1_07_19_20_4_1 = false)
    followed closely by Frankie who persuades Alex to sit next to ${f_them} with a friendly smile.

  With the three of you seated, the ride begins to move upward, only to come to an almost immediate stop to allow the next set of festival-goers on.
  You look at your surroundings.
  In the distance, the spire of the cathedral rises up over the village, casting a much appreciated shadow on the cobblestone streets.

  The lake draws your eye in the opposite direction.
  The banks, covered in ambitions cattails, transform into a picturesque wood.
  You look forward to retreating into the cool greenery for the evening fireworks.

  "Where are you and your
  *if (b_gender = "f")
    sisters
  *else
    siblings
  going to watch the fireworks tonight?" you ask Frankie.

  $!{f_they} shrugs.
  "We'll probably find a spot near the bridge like we usually do.
  It doesn't have the best view, but it's not as crowded."

  *if (af_pos > 1)
    You glance at your friend.
    "You should join us," you invite.

    Alex flashes you a look of gratitude and affection.
  *else
    "You could-you could join us?" Alex sallies.

  Frankie grins.
  "And I suppose you have a better spot?"

  "As a matter of fact, we do," you
  *if (af > 1)
    say
  *else
    rejoin.

  "I can't answer for Charlie or Bert, they're pretty dumb, but you can count me in."

  *if (b_rom > 1)
    *set yr1_07_19_20_4_2 true
    Alex turns ${a_their} attention to you with a malicious gleam in ${a_their} eyes.
    "Oh, I think you can find some way to persuade Bertie to join you."

    *gosub_scene mechanics_setup flirt_style
    *if ((af_pos > 0) and (style = 3))
      *if (yr1_07_19_20_4_1 = true)
        You elbow ${a_them} in the side,
      *else
        You kick ${a_their} foot,
      eyes narrowed.

    Glancing first at Alex, Frankie lets out a low chuckle before ${f_their} eyes land on you.
    "Yeah, I think you're right.
    I can probably find something to [i]attract[/i] ${b_them}."

    *if (style = 1)
      You bat your eyelashes at Frankie.
      "I'm sure I have no idea what you mean."
    *else
      You cross your arms over your chest and try to shrink further into your corner.    

  Alex smiles.

  *page_break
  
  When all the pods have been filled with giddy festival-goers, the ferris wheel finally begins to make complete circles.
  The wind in your face is a welcome change from the summer sun beating down on you.

  *if (yr1_07_19_20_3 = true)
    You close your eyes, resisting the urge to squeeze them tightly shut, and focus on breathing.
    In and out.
    In and out.
    In and out.
    
    Your stomach does a somersault.
    Whether it's trying to take flight with the ferris wheel or escape back to the safety of the ground, you can't tell.
    
    "You okay, ${name}?" Frankie asks.

    You blink your eyes open, knuckles white in their grasp of the metal bar holding you in.
    "Yeah, I'm fine."

    *page_break
 
    When you look up and out, instead of down, you can appreciate the view, though the constant motion makes it difficult.
  *else
    As the ferris wheel turns round and round, you sit forward on the bench and look down at the ground below.
    The crowd moves around lazily.
    In the distance you think you can even see the 
    *if (roll = 1)
      band
    *else
      mime
    from earlier.

  Like Washington, Talverton is a pretty short town.
  Most buildings are three stories or fewer, which means you can see not only the village itself but the surrounding countryside as well.
  It's the kind of scene you would expect to come together on New Years as your family slowly but surely puts together the annual jigsaw puzzle.
    
  Finally the spinning starts to slow, and the stop-and-go unloading begins.
  When it's your turn to climb off the ride,
  *if (yr1_07_19_20_3 = true)
    your legs feel like jelly, and you slink off the ride in relief.
    *achieve brave
  *else
    you hop down, a fleeting burst of disappointment that the ride is over swelling up in your chest.
  
*if (yr1_07_19_20_5 = true)
  You don't have to look hard for the pie eating contest.
  As soon as you step onto High Street, it's pie as far as the eye can see.
  Narrow wooden slats, they can hardly be called tables, line the length of the street.
 
  An inordinate number of shirtless men strut about, participants, you imagine, who don't fancy getting pie on their shirts.
  There is no average profile.
  The young, the old; the thin, the fat: they all mill about the claustrophobic street. 

  And in the middle—a harried Judy trying to lay out pies.

  You and Charlie make your way over to her.
  "Did you make all these pies?" you ask.

  She looks up at you, her eyes wide.
  But not, oh-I-didn't-see-you-there wide—[i]get-out-while-you-can[/i] wide.
  Wispy strands of black hair escape her drooping ponytail.

  "What?
  Yes, I made them, all of them."

  "More importantly," Charlie cuts in, "what [i]flavor[/i] are they?"

  Judy continues to stare like something has cracked inside her skull.
  Charlie's smile is on the verge of collapsing, when Judy shakes herself out from under the spell and grins.
  "Berry!"

  The beep-beep-beep of a tenacious alarm sounds from Judy's wrist.
  Her eyes glaze over again with frenzy.
  "I've got to get these pies out!"

  She hurtles down the street, calling over her shoulder, "Sign-up's right in front of the bakery if you want to enter!"

  "Poor Judy," Charlie says, turning to you.
  "Are you going to enter?"

  *fake_choice
    #"Oh yeah, definitely," I say.
      *set yr1_07_19_20_5_1 2
      You take a glance at the immaculate berry pies calling your name.
      "Oh yeah, definitely."

      Charlie's smile takes up at least half of her face.
      "Me too!
      Let's get signed up!"
    #"I think I'll sit this one out," I say.
      *set yr1_07_19_20_5_1 1
      You shrug your shoulders.
      "I think I'll sit this one out."

      Charlie nods.
      "I want to."

      You smile thinking of how ${f_they} would tease ${f_their} sister.
      "Let's get you signed up then."

  A woman who looks like an older and less quirky version of Judy stands in front of [i]Sugar & Spice[/i] handing out papers, or trying to, at least.
  When you get closer you see that those papers are the sign up forms, and you
  *if (yr1_07_19_20_5_1 = 2)
    and Charlie both take one
  *else
    take one for Charlie
  and fill it out before handing it back in with the entry fee.

  *rand roll 1 100
  *page_break

  Charlie hooks her arm with yours.
  "Come on!
  We have to find a good spot 
  *if (yr1_07_19_20_5_1 = 2)
    where we can sit together!"
  *else
    where you can cheer me on!"

  You allow her to lead you away and soon find yourself
  *if (yr1_07_19_20_5_1 = 2)
    sitting on a hard wooden bench, squeezed in between Charlie and a bodybuilder.

    You look up at the volunteer assigned to you.
    She will keep you swimming in pie.

    She also supplies you and Charlie with matching pink shirts, [i]Sugar & Spice[/i] emblazoned across the front in a golden, glittery script.
    You pull it over your head to protect your shirt 
  *else
    facing Charlie as she squeezes into a gap between a bodybuilder and a kindergartener.
    Each contestant sits in front of a volunteer ready to replace their depleted supply of pie.
    She gives Charlie a pink [i]Sugar & Spice[/i] t-shirt to protect her
  from the the gooey berries.
  That puts a new spin on the shirtless dudes.

  Jittery chitchat buzzes through the crowd in anticipation of the beginning of the contest.
  Just before it builds to a crescendo, Judy returns with
  *if (yr1_07_19_20_5_1 = 2)
    your first pie.
  *else
    Charlie's first pie.

  She smiles.
  "Good luck!"

  The next thing you know, Judy's standing on a little stage, microphone in hand.
  She works the crowd up and begins the countdown.

  "THREE!"

  "TWO!"

  "ONE!" 
 
  *page_break

  *if (yr1_07_19_20_5_1 = 2)
    With your hands tied behind your back, you shove your face directly into the pie.
    It's wet, it's messy, and it's delicious.

    The pie tin slides around on the table in front of you, and you follow it around, scarfing down pie like an Alaskan crab fisher who hasn't seen dry land or home-cookin' in four weeks.
    Like a swimmer, you come up for a fleeting gulp of breath between bobs before chomping down on another bite of pie.
    There's barely time to taste the berries as they slide down your throat.
  *else
    Charlie's face hits the pie like a ton of bricks.
    Like the other contestants, her hands are tied behind her back, but that doesn't stop her.
    Barely a minute goes by before someone puts a new pie in front of her.

  The crowd holds its breath, like they're watching the qualifying trials for the Olympics, Judy commentating in the background.
  After an eternity of pie-eating, a blowhorn sounds and
  *if (yr1_07_19_20_5_1 = 2)
    you jerk up.    
  *else
    the contestants stop.

  Looking over at Charlie, you see the gory entrails of pie oozing off her face.
  She grins at you like a vampire who's been caught mid-meal, her teeth stained with reddish-purple of the berry filling.
  Chunks of half-forgotten berries splatter her shirt, one piece tangled in her frizzy hair.
  *if (yr1_07_19_20_5_1 = 2)
    You reach up to your own face to assess the damage.
  *else
    You grin back.

  *if (yr1_07_19_20_5_1 = 2)
    *if (roll = 100)
      *set yr1_07_19_20_5_1 3
    *elseif ((food = "") and (yie <= 45))
      *set yr1_07_19_20_5_1 3
    *elseif (yie <= 40)
      *set yr1_07_19_20_5_1 3

  The crowd hushes again when Judy clears her throat and makes to declare the winners.

  "IN THIRD PLACE," she projects like a WWE announcer,
  *if (("$!!{full_name}" = "JODY SCOTT") or ("$!!{nickname} $!!{last_name}" = "JODY SCOTT"))
    "MARIA TAN!"
  *else
    "JODY SCOTT!"

  You don't know who that is, obviously, but the commotion down toward the end of the table gives you a good idea.
  The crowd cheers, and you add your own claps to the ruckus.

  "IN SECOND PLACE—CHARLIE CARROLL!"

  This time, your claps are sincere, 
  *if (yr1_07_19_20_5_1 = 1)
    and you grin widely at Charlie from the other side of the table.
  *else
    and you slap Charlie across the back for good measure.


  The cheering drops to a low murmur when Judy says, "AND IN FIRST—"
  She pauses for dramatic effect, and you hold your breath.
  *if ((yr1_07_19_20_5_1 = 2) or (yr1_07_19_20_5_1 = 3))
    Could it be you?

  *page_break

  *if (yr1_07_19_20_5_1 = 3)
    *achieve morepie
    "$!!{name} $!!{last_name}!"

    IT COULD!
    IS IT!

    Charlie beams at you, and it's her turn to slap you on the back.
    "I don't know how to ate more pie than [i]me[/i]," she ribs you, "but congratulations."
  *else
    *if (("$!!{full_name}" = "SAM LEE") or ("$!!{nickname} $!!{last_name}" = "SAM LEE"))
      "ALI PEREZ!"
    *else
      "SAM LEE!"
    
    *if (yr1_07_19_20_5_1 = 2)
      Apparently not.
      You shrug.
      You win some, you lose some.
      At least you got some pie.

    You resume your polite, if disinterested, clapping.

  *if (yr1_07_19_20_5_1 = 1)
    You make your way toward Charlie, who's doing her best to clean up, when you and Judy converge on her.
  *else
    Your volunteers give you and Charlie a wet towel, and you get started on damage control before Judy walks over to you.

  "Good job," Judy says, 
  *if (yr1_07_19_20_5_1 = 3)
    more to Charlie than to you,
  with nervous smile.

  Charlie's cheeks match the gooey-red strawberries strewn over the table in front of her.
  "Eating your pie isn't exactly a hardship."

  "You ate so much though!" Judy says.
  "Th-that is, I mean, I was really impressed."

  "So what are you up to now that the contest is over?" you ask
  *if (per >= 53)
    *if (awk <= 45)
      to diffuse the mounting awkwardness.
    *elseif (awk >= 55)
      as your skin crawls from the awkward moment.
    *else
      her.
  *else
    her
  *if (yr1_07_19_20_5_1 = 3)
    "And, more importantly, what's my prize??"
  *else
  
    "Hold up!" Charlie says.
    "Didn't I win anything??"

  Judy laughs, pulling a card out of the pocket of her pink romper.
  *if (yr1_07_19_20_5_1 = 3)
    "A £100d gift card for [i]Sugar & Spice[/i]!"

    Charlie shoots you an envious look, but the envy quickly turns to delight when Judy passes her a similar prize, albeit for a lesser amount.
    *if (per >= 60)
     If she wasn't in love before, she sure is now.

  *else
    Charlie's face lights up at the £50 gift card.

  "And to answer your question," Judy says with a turn towards you,
  "I'm free now!"

  "You should come with us," Charlie offers, shyly.
  "We're gonna meet back up with Alex and Frankie."

  Judy tugs at the end of her ponytail.
  "Are you sure?"

  "Definitely," you cut in.
  
  "Alright," she agrees, "just let me grab my backpack."

  *if (num > 0)
    *fake_choice
      #I give a rose to Charlie and encourage her to give it to Judy.
        *set yr1_07_19_20_1_j true
        *set num -1
        *set counter +1
        *set j +1
        *set cj +1
      *if (num = 12)
        #I give my bouquet to Charlie and encourage her to give it to Judy.
          *set num 0
          *set c +1
          *set j +2
          *set cj +1
      #I keep the roses to myself.
        Soon Judy returns, backpack in hand.
        *goto keepflowers

  "Pss," you hiss at Charlie.
  When she turns to look at you, you thrust
  *if (yr1_07_19_20_1_j = true)
    *if (yr1_07_19_20_1_c = true)
      another
    *else
      a
    rose
  *else
    the bouquet
  into her hands.
  "Give it to Judy!"

  "Wh-what!"
  She flushes beet red, her cheeks more saturated than the pie filling still hanging from her hair.
  "I can't!"

  "And why not?"

  "What if she doesn't—"

  "She does!"
    
  There's no more time for argument.
  Judy reappears, pie-eyed at the Charlie's high color, an unvoiced question on her lips.

  You nudge Charlie, and her arm shoots forward.

  "Here!" she squeaks.

  Judy takes the  
  *if (yr1_07_19_20_1_j = true)
    rose
  *else 
    bouquet
  and averts her eyes.
  Charlie shoots you a look of equal parts despair and accusation.

  "They're lovely," Judy mumbles with a small peek at Charlie, whose shoulders relax by a millimeter.

  "You're welcome," she says, another nervous look in your direction.

  As the three of you set out, Judy leans in close to you and says in sotto voce,
  *if (yr1_07_19_20_1_j = true)
    "This looks
  *else    
    "These look
  suspiciously like the ones
  *if (yr1_07_19_20_1_j = true)
    you're carrying."
  *else
    you were carrying earlier."

  You look at her wide eyed.
  *if ((((awk <= 42) or (cha <= 42)) or (dir >= 42)) or (yie <= 42))
    "I've no idea what you're talking about."
  *elseif (((cha >= 58) or (gen <= 42)) or (org <= 42))
    "Pure coincidence."
  *else
    "Oh?"

  She smirks at you and looks away.

*page_break
*label keepflowers
As the three of you plow back into the crowd, something catches your attention.
You step toward it, 
*if (yr1_07_19_20_4 = true)
  Alex and Frankie 
*elseif ((yr1_07_19_20_5 = true) and (cj >= 2))
  hoping to give Charlie and Judy a moment to themselves.
  But you're more successful than you intended and find that you have well and truly lost your friends.
*elseif (yr1_07_19_20_5 = true)
  Charlie and Judy
*else
  *bug
*if ((yr1_07_19_20_4 = true) or (cj < 2))
  at your heels.
  Or at least that's what you thought until you turn around and find yourself alone.

You look left, right, and center, but no sign of them appears.
  
Your phone buzzes, and you pull it out of your pocket.

[i]Where'd you go?[/i]
*if (yr1_07_19_20_4 = true)
  Alex
*if (yr1_07_19_20_5 = true)
  Charlie
asks.  

[i]To the right.[/i]
[i]Where are you[/i]?

*if (yr1_07_19_20_4 = true)
  [i]Headed toward food, meeting up with Charlie[/i]
*if (yr1_07_19_20_5 = true)
  [i]On our way to the rides to find Frankie and Alex[/i]

[i]Alrighty, I'll catch up when I catch up[/i]

You stare at the screen of your phone for a minute before coming to a decision.
Sliding it back into your pocket, you return your attention to the thing that distracted you in the first place.
The carousel.

You're in no rush.
You've got all day.
But your friends are waiting for you.

Turning back the way you came, you push through the crowd and set off to find your friends when you hear someone call your name.
When you turn around, you come face to face with—
*fake_choice
  #—Bertie.
    *gosub_scene mechanics_setup partner_b
    *set yr1_07_19_20_6 1
    *set b +1
  *if (yr1_02_05_20_i != 0)
    *if ((g >2) or (g_rom >2))
      #—${gabby}.
        *gosub_scene mechanics_setup partner_g
        *set yr1_07_19_20_6 2
        *set g +1
  #—${rash}.
    *gosub_scene mechanics_setup partner_r
    *gosub_scene mechanics_setup pet_names_r
    *set yr1_07_19_20_6 3
    *set r +1
  *if ((t_rom > 0) or (yr1_06_14_20_2_5_1 = false))
    #—Tony
      *gosub_scene mechanics_setup partner_t
      *set yr1_07_19_20_6 4
      *set t +1
  *if (t_rom = 0)
    #—Tony and Claudia
      *gosub_scene mechanics_setup partner_t
      *set yr1_07_19_20_6 5
      *set yr1_07_19_20_6_5 1
      *set t +1

*gosub_scene mechanics_setup flirt_style
"$!{name}!" ${part} calls out to you.

You whip around to see ${p_them}.

*if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 1)
  $!{b_they} gives you a
  *if (yr1_02_05_20_b = 1)
    *if (yr1_06_14_20_2_1 = 4)
      bright
    *else
      cautious 
  *else
    *if (b_rom > 1)
      satisfied
    *else
      friendly
  smile.
*elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 2)
  $!{g_they} runs ${g_their} fingers through ${g_their} curls and flashes an uncertain smile at you.
*elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 3)
  $!{r_their} lips curl into an interested smile.
*else
  $!{t_they} flashes a grin at you.
  *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 5)
    *if (yr1_06_14_20_2_5_1 = true)
      Elbowing the munchkin at ${t_their} side, ${t_they} also raises an expectant eyebrow.

      Claudia heeds the cue.
      "Hi," she murmurs.
    *else
      
      "And who's this?" you ask with a shrug toward the munchkin at ${t_their} side.

      Tony elbows her in the side, and she glances up.
      Briefly.
      "I'm Claudia," she mumbles.

      "It's nice to meet you, Claudia."

      She glances up at you again.

      "${name} is the one I told you about, love."
      *if (they = "they")
        Her eyes linger on you for a moment.

      You give her an uncertain smile.

"About to ride the carousel?" ${p_they} asks.

"Oh, actually, I was about to go find Alex."

*if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 1)
  "Alex can wait a few minutes, surely?" ${b_they} reasons.
*elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 2)
  "Oh," ${g_they} says, a frown tugging at ${g_their} lips.
*elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 3)
  "I still haven't met this Alex person," ${r_they} says.
  *if (r_rom < 3)
    "Are you sure ${a_they}'s not just some figment of your imagination?"

    You laugh.
    "Alex is definitely not imaginary."

    "How can you be sure?"

    You shrug.
  *else
    "I'm starting to think ${a_they}'s just some excuse you use to get out of seeing me."

    *if (style = 1)
      You chuckle.
      "Awww, been missing me?"

      $!{r_they} nudges your shoulder and flashes you a flirtatious grin.
      "Naturally."
    *elseif (style = 2)
      You glare at ${r_them}.
      "That something that happen to you often?
      People making up imaginary friends to avoid you?"

      $!{r_they} takes a step closer, a
      *if (r_gender = "f")
        seductive
      *else
        rakish
      grin spilling over ${r_their} features.
      "You afraid of being alone with me, ${r_nn1}?"

      You fold your arms across your chest and scoff.
    *else
      Your eyebrows shoot up
      *if ((hair = true) or (headscarf = true))
        and nearly collide with your
        *if (headscarf = true)
          head scarf.
        *else
          hairline.
      *else
        like rockets.    

  "So the carousel."

  "The carousel," you repeat.

  $!{r_they} raises an expectant eyebrow at you.
*else
  "Don't have any time to spare for
  *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 4)
    me?" ${t_they} teases with a wink.

    *if (t_rom >= 2)
      *if (style = 1)
        Your lips curl into a grin.
        "I suppose I could spare a minute or two."
      *else
        Tony has a way of making you feel like a 
        *if (gender = "f")
          doe
        *elseif (gender = "m")
          buck
        *else
          deer
        in the crosshairs.

      $!{t_their} wolfish grin grows wider.
      "Come on, love.
      *if (yr1_06_11_20_1 = 2)
        You still owe me a lunch.
        At least
      *else
        You won't regret it if you
      let me take you for a spin."
      
      *if (style = 1)
        You grin back.
      *else
        You swallow back the butterflies.
    *else
      You roll your eyes.
  *else
    us?" ${t_they} quips.

    You bite your bottom lip, considering.  

*fake_choice
  #"Let's go if we're going," I grumble.
    *set cha %- 5
    You cross your arms over your chest and sigh.
    "Let's go if we're going."

    *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 1)
      Bertie laughs.
      "You're a very charming grump, you know."
    *elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 2)
      "Fine," ${gabby} harrumphes.
    *elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 3)
      "Tell me how you really feel," ${rash} says with a clap on the back.
    *else
      Tony slaps you on the back.
      "That's the spirit!"

      You can't help but smile, at least a teensy-little bit, at ${t_their} enthusiasm.
  #"Do you want to ride the carousel?" I ask.
    *set dir %+ 5
    You blink at ${part} a few times.
    "Do [i]you[/i] want to ride the carousel?"

    *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 1)
      Bertie rubs the back of ${b_their} neck.
      "I mean, it sounds fun?"

      You nod.
    *elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 2)
      "I mean, if [i]you[/i] want to go, I have no objection to accompanying you," ${gabby} says.

      You sigh.   
    *elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 3)
      "Anything to get closer to you, ${r_nn1}," ${rash} quips.

      You sigh and roll your eyes.
    *else
      *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 4)
        "Why not?" Tony asks with a smile.
      *else
        Tony nudges Claudia again.
        "Wanna go, squirt?"

        She glances between you and Tony and then agrees with an almost imperceptible nod.

    "Let's go then."  
  #"Let's go!" I cheep.
    *set gen %+ 5
    *set org %- 5
    You beam at ${part} and clap ${p_them} across the back.
    "Let's go!"

    *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 1)
      Bertie smiles.
      "Alright."
    *elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 2)
      ${gabby} winces at the exuberance of your response.
      "Alright, let's go."
    *elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 3)
      $!{rash} shakes ${r_their} head with a laugh and follows after you.
    *else
      Tony beams at you.
      *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 5)
        "Whaddya say, squirt?" ${t_they} asks Claudia.
        She nods.
        Or at least you think she does.
        It's hard to tell.

      "Lead the way," you invite, and the
      *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 4)
        two
      *else
        three
      of you set off.
  *if ((yr1_07_19_20_6 != 2) and (yr1_07_19_20_6 != 3))
    #"You really wanna go?" I ask.
      *set yie %+ 5
      You tug at your ${tic}.
      "You [i]really[/i] wanna go?

      *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 1)
        Bertie smiles. 
        "Yeah, why not?
        That's what people do at festivals, right?
        Ride the rides?"
      *elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 4)
        "I could be persuaded," Tony says with a smile.
        At your dubious look, ${t_they} laughs.
        "Come on, ${name}.
        You only live once.
        Let's ride the ride."
      *elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 5)
        Tony glances at ${t_their} sister, who is trying to hide behind Tony's legs.
        "I think the carousel with a friend is exactly what we need."

        You nod and give Claudia an encouraging smile.
        "Let's go then."
      *else
        *bug
  *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 != 5)
    #"Hoping to take me for a ride?" I tease. ♥
      *set yr1_07_19_20_6_1 true
      *set awk %- 5
      *set gen %- 5
      *set bol +1
      Your lips curve into a smile.
      "Hoping to take me for a ride?"

      *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 1)
        *set b_rom +1
        *if (b_rom = 1)
          Bertie lets out a strangled chuckle.
          Schooling ${b_their} features, ${b_they}         
          *if (b_gender = "m")
            offers you his arm and
          responds, "It would be my honor."
        *else
          ${bertie} regards you with a single raised eyebrow, a grin budding at the corner of ${b_their} mouth.
          "Absolutely."
      *elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 2)
        *set g_rom +1
        *if (g_rom = 1)
          ${gabby}'s eyebrows shoot up and recede into ${g_their} hairline.
        *else
          ${gabby} raises an eyebrow at you.
        "Let's go."
      *elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 3)
        *set r_rom +1
        $!{r_they} smirks.
        *if (r_rom = 1)
          "It's about
        *else
          "All the
        time, ${r_nn1}."
      *else
        *set t_rom +1
        $!{t_their} grin widens, becomes sharper.
        "Careful, love, two can play at that game."

        You raise an eyebrow at ${t_them}.
        "Well, I certainly hope so."

        $!{t_they} laces ${t_their} fingers through yours with a self-satisfied grin.
        "Let's go."
  *if ((yr1_07_19_20_6 = 2) or (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 3))
    #"I mean, we could go, together, if you want," I concede. ♥
      *set yr1_07_19_20_6_1 true
      *set awk %+ 5
      *set dir %- 5
      *set per %+ 5
      *set yie %+ 5
      *set hos +1
      You cross your arms over your chest and avert eye contact.
      "I mean, we could go, [i]together[/i], if you want."

      *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 2)
        *set g_rom +1
        ${gabby} rolls ${g_their} eyes.
        "You sound so enthusiastic."

        "Do you want to go or not?"

        "Ugh.
        Let's go."
      *elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 3)
        *set r_rom +1
        ${rash} smirks.
        "I knew I was growing on you, ${r_nn1}."

        You roll your eyes.
        "Like a fungus.
        Let's get on with it then."
      *else
        *bug
  *if ((yr1_07_19_20_6 != 4) and (yr1_07_19_20_6 != 5))
    #"We could ride the carousel together," ${p_they} suggests. ♥
      *set yr1_07_19_20_6_1 true
      *set dir %- 5
      *set shy +1
      You bite your bottom lip.

      *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 1)
        *set b_rom +1
        Bertie runs a hand through ${b_their} hair and flashes you a small smile.
      *elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 2)
        *set g_rom +1
        ${gabby} cocks ${g_their} head and mirrors you, a small smile finally winning out.
      *elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 3)
        *set r_rom +1
        ${rash} shakes ${r_their} head and chuckles.
      *else
        *bug

      "We could go together."

      You drag your eyes up to ${p_theirs}, and ${p_their} smile
      *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 1)
        softens.
      *elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 3)
        grows wider.
      *else
        falters.

      Then you nod.

      *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 2)
        ${gabby} sighs in relief.
      "Let's go then," ${p_they} says.   
  *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 4)
    #"Alright," I nod.  "Let's go." ♥
      *set yr1_07_19_20_6_1 true
      *set shy +1
      *set t_rom +1
      Tony grins at you again, but it fades into something softer, and ${t_they} laces ${t_their} fingers with your own.
      "Excellent choice."
      *goto line
        
*page_break
*label line
*gosub_scene mechanics_setup flirt_style

As you join the line snaking around the carousel, you get a better look at the ride.
The red metal panels stand out against blue summer sky, but it's the mirrors that catch your attention.
The yellow light of the antique bulbs shimmers in the glass, reflecting a kaleidoscopic speckle of light onto the pavement as the ride spins round and round.

Rather than the typical horses, the jumpers on this merry-go-round are more exotic: lions, tigers, and bears (oh my).
You even catch a glimpse of a bright pink flamingo.
Paint flecks off of the well-loved animals to reveal the old wooden surface beneath the more polished veneer.

*page_break

*if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 1)
  "I saw your
  *if (f_gender = "f")
    sisters
  *else
    siblings
  earlier," you say by way of opening.
  "I was with
  *if (yr1_07_19_20_4 = true)
    Frankie
  *else
    Charlie
  before running into you, actually."

  "I hope they were behaving themselves," ${b_they} says.

  You laugh.
  
  "That bad, huh?"

  "They bicker."

  "They fight, you mean."

  "Don't all siblings?"

  $!{b_they} sighs and flashes you a weak smile.

  You cock your head at ${b_them}, brow furrowed.
  "Everything okay?"

  $!{b_they} shrugs.
  "Yeah, 
  *if ((((b >= 4) or (b_rom >= 3)) or (yr1_06_14_20_2_1_4 = 1)) or (yr1_07_19_20_6_1 = true))  
    just remembering things I'd rather forget."

    *if (yr1_06_14_20_2_1_4 = 1)
      "About raising—" the word seems to stick on the tip of your tongue "—Charlie and Frankie?" you ask.
    *else
      "You can tell me if you want," you offer, "but it's okay if you don't."

    Bertie smiles at you, but it fades away quickly as ${b_they} begins to speak again.
    "I became their guardian when I wasn't much more than a kid myself," ${b_they} confides.
    "Frankie... ${f_they}'s resented me ever since."

    You frown and
    *if (yr1_07_19_20_6_1 = true)
      *if (style = 1)
        reach out to take ${b_their} hand.

        $!{b_they} smiles at you and squeezes your hand.
      *else
        nudge ${b_them} gently.

        $!{b_they} looks up from the ground and smiles at you, taking your hand and lacing ${b_their} fingers through yours at the same time.
    *else
      cock and raise an eyebrow at ${b_them}.

    "I don't suppose you have any advice?" ${b_they} asks.

    *if ((((hum >= 55) or (dir <= 45)) or (per <= 45)) or (yie >= 55))
      "I don't know that it's my place."

      "I asked," ${b_they} insists.
    *else
      You look back at ${b_them}, wide-eyed.

      $!{b_they} laughs.
      "You don't have to look like you're at the chopping block."

    *fake_choice
      #"Have you ever actually tried talking to Frankie about it?" I ask.
        *set yr1_07_19_20_6_2_b 1
        *set dir %- 5
        *set per %+ 5
        You bite your bottom lip and look over at your inquisitor.
        "Have you ever actually tried talking to Frankie about it?"

        Bertie's eyebrows shoot up.
        "Well, yeah, of course."

        You raise an expectant eyebrow.
        [b]Feedback requested: is this too many eyebrows??[/b]

        $!{b_they} rubs the back of ${b_their} neck.
        
        "People don't usually resent other people without a reason," you murmur.

        Bertie's eyes snap up to yours, a look of hurt passing across ${b_their} face.
  
        *if (yr1_07_19_20_6_1 = true)
          Squeezing ${b_their} hand, you add,
        "I don't mean that it's your fault or that you did something wrong, but Frankie feels that way for a reason.
        Maybe you need to figure out what it is and help ${f_them} work through it."

        Bertie nods at your, ${b_their} attention drifting away as ${b_they} considers your advice.
      #I pull at my ${tic}.  "It takes two to tango, doesn't it?  Are you sure the problem is only on Frankie's side?"
        *set yr1_07_19_20_6_2_b 2
        *set dir %+ 5
        *set per %- 5
        You pull at your ${tic} and frown.
        "It takes two to tango, doesn't it?  
        Are you sure the problem is only on Frankie's side?"

        *if (yr1_07_19_20_6_1 = true)
          Bertie drops your hand.
        "Are you saying it's my fault?"

        You shake your head and bite at your bottom lip.
        "I-I don't know," you admit, "but I do know that relationships take two people.
        You were in a hard position, and ${f_they} was just a kid.
        You're both adults now, though, and if you want things to be better, you're at least 50% responsible."

        Bertie frowns, but ${b_they} nods at you.
        "You're right."
        *if (yr1_07_19_20_6_1 = true)
          Hesitantly, ${b_their} hand creeps back into yours.
          "I'd like to keep this," ${b_they} says with a small smile.
      #"I think the two of you should work this out on your own," I maintain.
        *set yr1_07_19_20_6_2_b 3
        *set yr1_07_19_20_6_5 1
        *set yie %- 5
        You shake your head.
        "I think the two of you should work this out on your own."

        Bertie frowns and rubs the back of ${b_their} neck, dropping your hand.
        "Yeah, okay."
  *else
    of course."
    $!{b_they} shakes ${b_their} head.
    "Frankie has always been a troublemaker," ${b_they} adds with a more genuine smile.
*elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 2)
  "Have you enjoyed the festival so far?" ${gabby} asks you.

  You nod before remembering your awkward interlude with ${ines} and Sebastian.
  *if (per <= 42)
    Your nose wrinkles at the memory.

  With a smile tugging at ${g_their} lips, ${gabby} intrudes on your reminiscence.
  "What's that face for?" ${g_they} asks.

  *if (per > 42)
    "What face?" you
    *if (g_rom >= 3)
      *if (style = 1)
        ask, a smile replacing your previous expression.
      *elseif (style = 2)
        ask with a frown.
      *else
        ask, a nervous pulse prickling at your throat.
    *else
      ask.
 
    $!{g_they} shakes ${g_their} head.
    You wrinkled your 
    *if (g_rom >= 3)
      little 
    nose at something."

    [b]Feedback requested: "little" here to describe nose is supposed to be diminutive/cute rather than describe the actual size of MC's nose--the way someone might say "your pretty little head."  MC could very well have a large nose!  Is this acceptable?  Should I replace/remove this descriptor?  Tell me your thoughts.[/b] 

  You sigh.
  "I was at the peony show earlier, and Sebastian pulled me into a battle between him and
  *if ((yr1_04_08_20_i != 0) or (yr1_06_14_20_2 = 2))
    your grandmother."

    $!{g_they} raises an eyebrow at you.
  *else
    ${ines}.

    "My grandmother?" ${gabby} asks.

    "Your grandmother?" you repeat, eyes widening in recognition.
    "That makes a lot of sense," you add with half chuckle.

    ${gabby}'s eyebrows furrow together.
    "What does that mean?"

    You shrug, hiding your smile.
    "I see the resemblance."

    $!{g_they} eyes you suspiciously but doesn't press the subject.
  "And what exactly did Sebastian do?"

  "He asked me to vote for his peonies."

  ${gabby} snorts.
  "And did you?"

  *if ((yr1_07_19_20_2 = 1) or (yr1_07_19_20_2 = 5))
    "Nope."

    "I'd wager he was devastated."

    You laugh and agree.
    *if (yr1_07_19_20_2 = 1)
      "Your grandmother was rather satisfied, though."

      $!{g_they} snorts again.
      "I bet."
    *else
      "Sebastian and your grandmother were both quite exasperated to find neither of their names on my card."

      "Who did you vote for?"

      You shrug.
      *if (org >= 58)
        "Someone named Robin Wallace.
        Whoever that is."
      *else
        "I don't even remember their name now."

      $!{g_they} grins at you and shakes ${g_their} head.
  *elseif (yr1_07_19_20_2 = 2)
    "As a matter of fact, I did."

    "I'm sure my grandmother loved that."

    "She was thrilled," you agree with a smile.
  *elseif (yr1_07_19_20_2 = 3)
    "I [i]did[/i]," you say, a large, mischievous smile belying your half-deception.

    ${gabby} raises an eyebrow at you and waits for you to continue.

    "I [i]also[/i] voted for your grandmother."

    "[i]Also[/i]?
    And they accepted that?"

    You shrug.
    "I slipped away before it could be fully litigated."

    ${gabby} rolls ${g_their} eyes at you.
    "You think you're so clever."

    *if (((cha >= 60) or (gen <= 43)) or (hum <= 43))
      "That's because I [i]am[/i]," you retort, earning another smile from your companion.
    *else
      You stick your tongue out at ${g_them}, to which ${g_they} rolls ${g_their} eyes again,
      *if (per >= 58)
        though you see the smile on ${g_their} lips.
      *else
        and you laugh.
  *else
    "I tried," you answer.

    "Tried?"

    "I [i]did[/i] vote for his peonies.
    But I [i]also[/i] voted for your grandmother's."

    "I take it that didn't go over well?"

    You shake your head.
    "And then I checked out."    
*elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 3)
  *if (yr1_06_14_20_2_3_2 = false)
    *if ((r_rom >= 3) or (yr1_07_19_20_6_1 = true))
      "So when are you going to let me kiss you?" ${rash} asks.

      *if (style = 1)
        *goto proposition
      *else
        You whip around to face ${r_them} and
        *if (style = 2)
          sputter out a response.
        *else
          choke on your answer.
        "Excuse me?"

        $!{r_they} grins at your
        *if (style = 2)
          outrage.
        *else
          flustered reaction.
  *elseif (yr1_06_14_20_2_3_2 = true)
    *if (yr1_06_14_20_2_3_2_1 = 1)
      "So when will you let me kiss you again?" ${rash} asks.

      *label proposition
      You barely contain a snort.
      "Straight to the point, aren't you?"

      *set boo false
      *if (gender = "f")
        *if (r_gender = "f")
          *set boo true
      *elseif (gender = "m")
        *if (r_gender = "m")
          *set boo true
      *else
        *set boo true
      *if (boo = true)
        "Well, I wouldn't call it [i]straight[/i], exactly," ${r_they} retorts with a grin.

        You roll your eyes 
      *else
        "What can I say?
        *if (yr1_06_14_20_2_3_2 = true)
          I'm a fan of repeat performances."
        *else
          The heart wants what it wants."

          "I don't think that's your heart talking."
        You shake your head
      and chuckle.
    *elseif ((yr1_06_14_20_2_3_2_1 = 2) or (yr1_06_14_20_2_3_2_1 = 3))
      "So we're cool, right?" ${rash} interrupts the lull in conversation, ${r_their} voice uncertain.
      $!{r_they} peeks at you out of the corner of ${r_their} eye.

      "Yesss?" you answer.

      "That sounds like a question, ${r_nn1}."

      *if (yr1_06_14_20_2_3_2_1 = 2)
        "Hmmph."

        ${rash} laughs.
        "[i]That[/i] is even less helpful."

        You cross your arms.
        
        "You can't fool me," ${rash} taunts in a low whisper.

        "I don't know what you're talking about."

        "Oh, but you do."
        You roll your eyes, eliciting another laugh.
        "You can roll your eyes and cross your arms all you like, but you kissed me back, ${name}," ${r_they} adds.

        You can't refute ${r_them}.
        So you purse your lips instead.
      *else
        "Why wouldn't we be cool?" you mumble.

        $!{r_they} shrugs.
        "Oh, no reason.
        Other than the kiss of course."

        You chew on your bottom lip and raise your eyes from the pavement for a cautious peek at ${rash}.

        "I won't bite," ${r_they} promises with a smile that looks very much like it does bite.
        "Not yet, anyway," ${r_they} adds in whisper.

        You whip your eyes away from ${r_them}, lest you lose your composure completely.  

      $!{r_they} laughs. 
    *else
      *bug
  *else
    "Do you normally come into Talverton for stuff?" you ask.
    "It's a bit of a drive."

    ${rash} shrugs.
    "I've got family here."

    You nod.
    "Makes sense.
    My family usually gets together for this kinda stuff too."

    "It's just my cousin here, really, and ${gabby}'s not exactly a social butterfly."

    You laugh.
    "That explains why you're hanging out with me instead of ${g_them}."
    After a lull in the conversation, you ask, "You don't mean ${gabby} Duchamp, do you?"

    "That's the one," ${rash} confirms.

    *if (yr1_05_30_20_g = 1)
      You refrain from growling.
      [i]That[/i] asshole.
    *else
      "Small world," you say.

      "Small island, at least."
    
  *if (((yr1_06_14_20_2_3_1 = true) or (r_rom >= 3)) or (yr1_07_19_20_6_1 = true))
    "We could be good friends, you and I."

    *if ((gen <= 42) or (style = 2))
      "Oh, I bet.
      I'm sure that friendship is exactly what you have in mind."
    *else
      "Oh?"

    "I'm serious," ${r_they} counters with a growing smile.
    "I scratch your back, you scratch mine.
    Literally." 
    *fake_choice
      #"I'll think about it," I say.
        *set yr1_07_19_20_6_2_r 1
        You glance over at ${rash} and 
        *if (style = 1)
          grin,
        *elseif (style = 2)
          frown,
        *else
          fight a rising blush,
        considering.
        "I'll think about it."

        $!{rash} smiles and nods.
        "Late at night, I hope."

        *if (style = 1)
          You shake your head and laugh.
          "You're bold, I'll give you that."

          "That's what you like about me," ${r_they} taunts.
        *elseif (style = 2)
          You roll your eyes at ${r_them}.          
        *else
          You suck in a breath.

        *if ((style = 2) or (style = 3))
          ${rash} takes a step closer, ${r_their} voice dropping to a whisper that sweeps over your skin.
          "I could [i]really[/i] make
          *if (style = 2)
            your eyes roll back in your head
          *else
            you breathless
          if you'll let me."

          *if (style = 2)
            You glare at ${rash} and cross your arms over your chest, an extra barrier between you and ${r_them}.
          *else
            You let out a strangled squeak, quickly overtaken by the sound of ${rash}'s laughter.
      #"I don't know," I say.
        *set yr1_07_19_20_6_2_r 2
        You glance over at ${rash}
        *if (style = 1)
          and bite your bottom lip.
        *elseif (style = 2)
          before quickly looking away again.
        *else
          and worry your ${tic}.
        "I don't know," you
        *if (style = 1)
          say.
        *elseif (style = 2)
          mumble.
        *else
          murmur.

        ${rash} nods, picking at a nonexistent piece of lint before shrugging.
        "Just think about it.
        No pressure, just some fun."
      #"I'm not interested in fooling around," I say.
        *set yr1_07_19_20_6_2_r 3
        *set yr1_07_19_20_6_5 1
        *if (style = 1)
          You look ${rash} in the eye.
        *elseif (style = 2)
          You frown.
        *else
          You finger your ${tic}.
        "I'm not interested in fooling around," you say.

        ${rash}
        *if (style = 2)
          mirrors your frown.
        *else
          frowns.
        "I respect your choice, but I'm only looking for some fun right now."

        You eye each other: an immovable object and unstoppable force.

        $!{r_they} lets out a huff of breath.
        "Come on, there's no need to ruin the carousel round.
        Forget I said anything."

        You nod in agreement.
        But there's no forgetting it.
        It's out there now, and the awkward in the air isn't going to go away on its own.
*else
  *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 4)
    You glance at Tony out of the corner of your eye and can't help but voicing a question that prickles at the back of your mind.
    "So..." you start.
 
    $!{t_they} looks over at you and raises an eyebrow in invitation.

    "Where's your sister?
    This seems like the kind of thing you would do with—" [i]your kid[/i], you think to yourself.  Instead, you say "—her."

    $!{t_they} nods.
    "You're right.
    She's with ${gabby} right now."

    Your eyebrows shoot up.
    *if (yr1_05_30_20_g = 1)
      [i]That[/i] asshole.
    "Oh?"

    "$!{g_they}'s my cousin.
    Grew up together and whatnot, spent most of my summer with ${g_them} and Ines."    

    "Makes sense."

    *if (t_rom >= 3)
      $!{t_they} glances back at you, hesitating, considering.
      "I'd like to introduce you sometime.
      To Claudia, I mean."

      "Oh."
      [i]Are we there already?[/i]

      A wry smile teases the corners of Tony's lips.
      "You already said that."

      "Oh!"
      Now you're buying time.

      $!{t_they} laughs.

      *fake_choice
        #"That would be nice, I think," I offer.
          *set yr1_07_19_20_6_2_t 1
          You glance over at Tony
          *if (style = 1)
            hesitantly.
          *else
            shyly.
          "That would be nice, I think."

          $!{t_they} beams at you and squeezes your hand.
          
          "When?" you ask, 
          *if (hum >= 57)
            already imagining all the things that could go wrong.
            What if she hates you?
          *elseif ((hum <= 43) or (org >= 57))
            making a plan for the eventual introduction.
          *else
            mentally preparing for the introduction.

          Tony shrugs.
          "Not today, of course."
          Rubbing the back of ${t_their} neck with ${t_their} free hand, ${t_they} flashes you a rueful grin.
          "Probably not for a while.
          I don't want to confuse her if...
          Well anyway, I just needed you to know that Claudia and I are a package deal."

          You nod.
          Are you ready to be part of a little girl's life?

          Tony squeezes your hand, pulling you out of your self-reflection.
          "I think she'll like you."

          *if (style = 1)
            You grin.
            "Well of course she will.
            I'm very likable!"

            That earns you a laugh.
            "That you are," Tony agrees.
          *else
            You smile.
            "I hope so."

            "I have no doubts," Tony says seriously with another hand squeeze for good measure.
        #"That seems kinda fast," I say.
          *set yr1_07_19_20_6_2_t 2
          You glance over at Tony.
          "That seems kinda fast."

          $!{t_they} meets your eye and finally nods, releasing your hand.          
          The conversation dies away for a moment, the issue hanging heavily in the air.

          Tony breaks the silence first with a quiet voice.
          "I need you to understand that Claudia and I are a package deal."
          $!{t_they} searches your eyes for understanding.

          "I'll keep that in mind."

          $!{t_they} nods and takes your hand again.

          When you squeeze it, ${t_they} smiles at you.
          The tension drains out of the air, but like bathwater from a tub, it leaves a residue.
        #"I'm not ready for something like that," I admit.
          *set yr1_07_19_20_6_2_t 3
          You glance away from Tony, dropping ${t_their} hand.
          "I'm not ready for something like that," you say.
          Whatever something like that is.
          You're not ready to be whatever it is ${t_they} wants you to be to this girl.

          If your response disappoints ${t_them}, you can't tell.
          $!{t_they} keeps ${t_their} expression under tight control and nods.
          "I appreciate your honesty," ${t_they} finally responds.

          You nod.
          This conversation isn't over.
          Not for good anyway.
          But you're almost to the front of the line now, and you push the awkward moment to the back of your mind, a memory to haunt you later when you're lying awake in bed.
        #"I don't think I'm that kind of person," I say.
          *set yr1_07_19_20_6_2_t 4
          *set yr1_07_19_20_6_5 1
          You sigh, dropping ${t_their} hand.
          "I don't think I'm that kind of person."

          Tony glances over at you, an eyebrow raised.
          "And what kind is that, exactly?"

          Frowning, you answer, "The kind you take home.
          The kind you let your family get attached to."

          $!{t_they} mirrors your frown.
          "Claudia and I—we're sort of a package deal.
          Buy one get one free."

          Nervous laughter claws at your chest.
          "I'm in the market for a rental, not a purchase," you mumble.

          Tony runs ${t_their} hand through ${t_their} hair and takes a deep breath before giving you a strained smile.
          "Maybe we should talk about this later.
          We're nearly to the front of the line."

          You nod, glad to get the conversation behind you, but uncertainty hangs in the atmosphere like a dense fog.
  *else
    "This is our first Talverton Day fair," Tony admits to you, ${t_their} hands resting on Claudia's shoulders.

    "Oh?" you ask.

    "We hadn't been here very long this time last year."
    $!{t_they} glances down at Claudia.
    "Thought a quiet day at home would be better for us."

    You nod.
    "I get that.
    Sometimes you just need time to recharge."

    Claudia squints up at you.
    "Recharge what?"

    "Your battery," you answer.
   
    "People don't have batteries," she informs you.
    Tony chuckles.

    *if (yr1_06_14_20_2_5_1 = true)
      You stake a small step closer and lower your voice.
      "Can you keep a secret?"

      Claudia looks at you suspiciously, but she nods.
 
      "I'm actually a robot," you tell her.

      Her eyes grow large, and she whips around, looking to her ${t_sib} for confirmation.

      Tony give her a solemn look.
      "You must be very special if a robot wants to be your friend."

      When she looks back at you, her eyes equal parts caution and curiosity, you can't help but chuckle.

      *if (((gen <= 42) or (cha >= 58)) or (hum <= 42))
        *set yr1_07_19_20_6_2_tc 1
        Curiosity wins out
        "Do robots eat?"

        You nod.
        "Oh yeah, definitely."

        And that's that on that.  
        You're a robot.
        One that eats.
      *else
        *set yr1_07_19_20_6_2_tc 2
        "I don't believe you," she declares resolutely, her nose in the air.

        You look to Tony, and the two of you chuckle.

        "You're a smart kid," you tell her.
    *else
      You blink at her a couple of times before looking back to Tony.
      "I guess I've been told, huh?"

      "Welcome to my world, ${name}."

*if (num > 0)
  [b]Feedback request: there are a lot of things going on under the hood!  It's been difficult to keep track of all of it.  If something seems out of place or like it's not working correctly, please let me know!  I appreciate your sharp eyes in the upcoming section.[/b]

  *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 != 5)
    You and ${part} 
  *else
    You, Tony, and Claudia
  step forward as the crowd pushes to fill in the gaps in the queue.
  Glancing down at the
  *if (num = 12)
    bouquet
  *else
    flowers
  in your hand, you consider giving them to
  *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 != 5)
    ${part}.
  *else
    Tony and Claudia.
  *if (((yr1_07_19_20_6_2_b = 3) or (yr1_07_19_20_6_2_r = 3)) or (yr1_07_19_20_6_2_t = 4))
    If you think it will help deflate some of the tension in the air.
  *fake_choice
    #I keep the roses.
      *goto noflowers
    *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 != 5)
      #I give ${p_them} a rose.
        *if (counter = 12)
          *achieve rosebed
        *set num -1
        *set counter +1
        *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 1)
          *set yr1_07_19_20_1_b true
          *set b +1
        *elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 2)
          *set yr1_07_19_20_1_g true
          *if (var = "pink")
            *set g +2
          *else
            *set g +1
        *elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 3)
          *set yr1_07_19_20_1_r true
          *set r +1
        *else
          *set yr1_07_19_20_1_t true
          *set t +1
      *if ((yr1_07_19_20_6_1 = true) and (num = 12))
        #I give ${p_them} the bouquet. ♥
          *set num 0
          *if (((yr1_07_19_20_6_2_b = 3) or (yr1_07_19_20_6_2_r = 3)) or (yr1_07_19_20_6_2_t = 4))
            *achieve thorny
          *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 1)
            *set yr1_07_19_20_6_3 true
            *set b_rom +1
          *elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 2)
            *set yr1_07_19_20_6_3 true
            *set g_rom +1
            *if (var = "pink")
              *set g +1
          *elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 3)
            *set yr1_07_19_20_6_3 true
            *set r_rom +1
          *else
            *set yr1_07_19_20_6_3 true
            *set t_rom +1
    *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 5)
      #I give them each a rose.
        *set yr1_07_19_20_1_tc true
        *set num -2
        *set counter +2
        *set t +1

*if ((((yr1_07_19_20_1_b = true) or (yr1_07_19_20_1_g = true)) or (yr1_07_19_20_1_r = true)) or (yr1_07_19_20_1_t = true))
  You choose one of the roses from your dwindling bouquet and offer it to ${part}.
*if (yr1_07_19_20_6_3 = true)
  Your grip around the base of the bouquet tightens for a moment as you prepare to take the plunge.

*if (((((yr1_07_19_20_1_b = true) or (yr1_07_19_20_1_g = true)) or (yr1_07_19_20_1_r = true)) or (yr1_07_19_20_1_t = true)) or (yr1_07_19_20_6_3 = true))
  "Alex and I ran across a lady selling flowers on our way into the festival today."

  ${part}'s eyes flash to your bouquet.
  "So it seems."

  "I thought you would like
  *if ((((yr1_07_19_20_1_b = true) or (yr1_07_19_20_1_g = true)) or (yr1_07_19_20_1_r = true)) or (yr1_07_19_20_1_t = true))
    one."
  *else
    these."

  ${part} accepts the 
  *if ((((yr1_07_19_20_1_b = true) or (yr1_07_19_20_1_g = true)) or (yr1_07_19_20_1_r = true)) or (yr1_07_19_20_1_t = true))
    rose
  *else 
    bouquet
  from you, pausing a moment before responding.

*if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 1)
  *if (yr1_07_19_20_1_b = true)    
    *if ((yr1_07_19_20_6_2_b = 1) or (yr1_07_19_20_6_2_b = 2))
      $!{b_they} smiles.
      "That was kind of you."

      You return the smile, the tension of uncertainty fading out of your body in one quick motion.
    *else
      You hold your breath in uneasily.

      "Thank you, ${name}.
      It's a nice gesture."

      You smile-grimace and divert your eyes to the ride.
  *elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6_3 = true)
    *if ((yr1_07_19_20_6_2_b = 1) or (yr1_07_19_20_6_2_b = 2))
      A bright smile blooms across ${b_their} face.      
    *else
      A crooked smile lifts the corners of Bertie's lips.
    "Thank you, ${name}," ${b_they} says.

    *if (b_gender = "m")
      "I've never received flowers before."
      He closes his eyes and presses the bouquet to his nose to punctuate the sentiment.
    *else
      "I don't receive flowers often," she says.

    You smile back.
    *if (style = 1)
      *if (b_gender = "f")
        "That's something we'll have to change then."
      *else
        "I'm glad I could change that."
    *else
      "I'm glad you like them."      
  *else
    *goto noflowers
*elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 2)
  "Why?" ${g_they} asks bluntly.

  You blink back at ${g_them}.
  *if (yr1_07_19_20_1_g = true)
    "I thought you'd like it?"

    $!{g_they} stares at the rose like it's an alien artifact.
    Finally ${g_they} raises ${g_their} eyes to meet yours.
    "Thank you."

    You shrug off the thanks that feel distinctly more significant than the rose warrants and focus your attention elsewhere.
  *elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6_3 = true)
    *if (style = 1)
      You cock your head at ${g_them}.
      "Because that's what you do when you like someone."

      ${gabby} opens ${g_their} mouth to begin speaking but stops short.

      "Look, if you're not—"
    *elseif (style = 2)
      You cross your arms over your chest reflexively.
      "Well if you don't want it, you don't have to keep it."
      
    *else
      You blush.
      Was this a mistep?
      "I-I, well, if you don't like them—"

    "They're lovely," ${g_they} says, 
    *if (style = 1)
      catching your eye and holding your gaze.
    *elseif (style = 2)
      with a sigh.
      "You are the most exasperating person I have ever met."

      You snort.
      "The feeling's mutual."
    *else
      cutting you off.
      $!{g_they} runs a hand through ${g_their} hair and shifts ${g_their} weight from one foot to another.
      *if (per >= 60)
        "[i]You're[/i] lovely," ${g_they} murmurs.

        Your eyes widen, heart racing.
      *else
        Mumbling something you can't hear, ${gabby} grimaces.

        "What?" you ask.

      *if (style = 2)
        $!{g_they} sighs again.
      "Thank you," ${g_they} says.
      "I-I 
      *if (var = "pink")
        love them."
      *else
        like them.
        A lot."

      You let out a tense breath,
      *if (style = 3)
        and your heart rate calms.
      *else
        your shoulders relaxing.
      "I'm glad."

      ${gabby} offers you a cautious smile, and you return it.
  *else
    *goto noflowers

*elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 3)
  *if (yr1_07_19_20_6_2_r != 3)
    *if (yr1_07_19_20_1_r = true)    
      For a moment, you think ${r_they}'s going to bite it like the cover of a trashy romance novel, but then ${r_they} doesn't.
      Instead ${r_they} flashes a wolfish grin at you.
      "I knew I was growing on you."

      You roll your eyes.
      "Don't make me regret giving you a rose."

      $!{r_they} takes a quick sniff of the rose.
      "Me?
      Never."

    *elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6_3 = true)
      *if ((yr1_05_20_20_r = true) and (yr1_06_14_20_2 = 3))
        "You're becoming quite the gift giver," ${r_they} says with a weak smile.
      *else
        "Wow," ${r_they} says dumbly.

      *if (style = 1)
        *if (yr1_07_19_20_6_2_r = 1)
          You grin.
          "I'm [i]very[/i] generous," you promise.

          Rash laughs, shrugging off ${r_their} momentary discomfort like an old jacket.
        *else
          "And here I thought I'd have to do something obscene to render you so speechless," you joke.

          ${rash}'s eyes light with interest.
          "Oh believe me, ${r_nn1}, I'm not the quiet type, but don't let that stop you."

          You roll your eyes at ${r_them}.
      *elseif (style = 2)
        *if ((yr1_05_20_20_r = false) or (yr1_06_14_20_2 != 3))
          "Cat got your tongue?" 
        *else
          "Is that all you have to say?"
        you ask, a prick of insecurity pulsing through you at ${r_their} less than enthusiastic response to the flowers.

        A flash of amusement lights ${r_their} eyes, and ${r_their} lips curl into a self-satisfied smile.
        "No, but I could think of a few things to keep my tongue busy."

        You scoff and turn away.        
      *else
        You wring your hands and frown, unsure how to salvage this situation.
        Then you feel a hand on your lower back.

        "They're nice, ${name}.
        Thank you."
        $!{r_they} smiles at you.
        It's tight, but the thumb rubbing soothing circles over the thin fabric of your shirt quiets the strongest of your uncertainties.
   
        You return ${r_their} smile, small and hesitant.
    *else
      *goto noflowers
  *else
    $!{r_they} frowns before schooling ${r_their} features into a tight smile.
    "Thanks."
  
    You grimace and worry your ${tic}, allowing your eyes to settle on something else.
  *else
    *goto noflowers

*elseif ((yr1_07_19_20_6 = 4) or (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 5))
  *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 4)
    *if (yr1_07_19_20_1_t = true)
      *if ((yr1_07_19_20_6_2_t = 0) or (yr1_07_19_20_6_2_t = 1))
        Tony smiles at you.
        "Thank you, ${name}."
      *elseif ((yr1_07_19_20_6_2_t = 2) or (yr1_07_19_20_6_2_t = 3))
        Tony fingers the petal of the rose before looking up at you with a small smile.
        "Thank you, ${name}."
      *elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6_2_t = 4)
        A small frown tugs at the corner of Tony's lips as ${t_they} fingers the petals of the rose.
        "Thank you," ${t_they} says without meeting your eye.
      *else
        *bug
    *elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6_3 = true)
      *if ((yr1_07_19_20_6_2_t = 0) or (yr1_07_19_20_6_2_t = 1))
        Tony's eyebrows shoot up in surprise, and a smile spreads across ${t_their} face.
        "Thank you, ${name}."
        *if (style = 1)
          You squeeze ${t_their} hand, and ${t_they} smiles.
        *else
          $!{t_they} squeezes your hand, and you squeeze back.
      *elseif ((yr1_07_19_20_6_2_t = 2) or (yr1_07_19_20_6_2_t = 3))
        Tony's eyes alternate between you and the bouquet of roses.
        "These are beautiful," ${t_they} says.

        *if (style = 1)
          "I'm glad you like them," you say with a small smile.
        *else
          You hold your beath, waiting to see what happens next.

        Tony places a kiss on the palm of your hand.
        "Thank you, ${name}."

        *if (style = 1)
          Your smile brightens.
        *else
          You exhale through a relieved smile.
        "You're welcome."
      *elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6_2_t = 4)
        Tony's brow creases as ${t_they} looks at the bouquet of roses.
        Finally ${t_they} looks up and meets your eye.
        "These are beautiful."

        Do you say 'thank you' to that?
        You can hardly take credit for their beauty.

        Tony huffs out a breath.
        "${name}?"

        You chew on your bottom lip.
        "Yes?"

        "I-these are-I don't—"
        Tony huffs out a breath.
        "Thank you."

        "You're welcome," you return.

        The conversation dies.
      *else
        *bug
    *else
      *goto noflowers
  *else
    *if (yr1_07_19_20_1_t = true)
      Tony smiles at Claudia and passes one of the roses to her.
      "What do we say?" ${t_they} asks.

      Her eyes drop to the ground, and she fidgets with the hem of her shirt.
      "Thank you," she mumbles.

      Tony rubs her back.
      "Yes, thank you."

      You smile.
      "You're welcome."
      *if (awk >= 57)
        Their thanks makes you feel distinctly out of place, but you know you should model good behavior for Claudia, even if personally you'd prefer your small kindness to be overlooked.

      *if (yr1_07_19_20_6_2_tc = 0)
        Claudia sneaks a glance up at you only to quickly hide her interest in a faux-inspection of the rose.

        You smile at Tony, who ruffles Claudia's hair, much to her chagrin.
      *elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6_2_tc = 1)
        "You're not [i]really[/i] a robot, are you?"

        You smile again.
        "No,
        *if ((((awk >= 57) or (they = "they")) or (gender = "nb")) or (trans = true))
          but sometimes I feel like
          *if ((((((cha >= 56) or (dir >= 56)) or (hum >= 58)) or (they = "they")) or (gender = "nb")) or (trans = true))
            I'm different from everyone else and don't quite belong."

            She looks at you steadily and nods.
          *else
            one," you say.

            She looks up at you with a creased brow.
        *else
          I'm not a robot," you admit.

          She nods, eyes fixed on her rose.
      *else
        "Why did you say you were a robot?" she asks.

        *if (((awk <= 42) or (org <= 43)) or (yie >= 57))
          You smile.
          "It tickled my fancy."
        *elseif (per <= 42)
          "Sometimes I feel like a robot," you admit to the girl, "like I'm running on empty and need to refuel.
          "Do you ever feel that way?"

          She looks up at you, considering, and then she nods.
          "Yes."      
          
        *else
          You shrug, unable to come up with a compelling answer on the spot.
          Luckily, your companion doesn't seem to be waiting with baited breath for an eloquent response, her attention fixed on your gift instead, and your silence goes unnoticed.
    *else
      *goto noflowers

*page_break
*label noflowers
*if (num > 0)
  You glance between ${part} and your roses and decide to let the opportunity pass.
The carousel begins to slow down, drawing your attention, and you make a small step forward in anticipation.

When the ride comes to a stop, parents begin to file off, pulling disappointed children behind them.
The line lurches forward, and conversation fizzles out as you catch up to the people in front of you.

As the 
*if (yr1_07_19_20_6 != 5)
  two
*else
  three
of you approach the front of the line, you begin to scout out your steed.
You spot the perfect choice.

*fake_choice
  #I will ride the crocodile.
    *set yr1_07_19_20_6_4 1   
    *set jumper "crocodile" 
  #I will ride the flamingo.
    *set yr1_07_19_20_6_4 2 
    *set jumper "flamingo"      
  #I will ride the giraffe.
    *set yr1_07_19_20_6_4 3
    *set jumper "giraffe"   
  #I will ride the lion.
    *set yr1_07_19_20_6_4 4
    *set jumper "lion"

*set boo false    
With each person that steps off the platform, the attendant lets another group of people on, until it's finally your turn.
You make a beeline for your chosen mount,
*if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 1)
  Bertie's 
*if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 3)
  ${rash}'s
*if ((yr1_07_19_20_6 = 1) or (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 3))
  amused chuckle
*if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 2)
  ${gabby}'s exasperated sigh 
*if ((yr1_07_19_20_6 != 4) and (yr1_07_19_20_6 != 5))
  following behind you.
*if ((yr1_07_19_20_6 = 4) or (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 5))
  Tony
  *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 5)
    and Claudia
  on your heels. 

*if (yr1_07_19_20_6_4 = 1)
  The crocodile sits lower to the ground than most of the other jumpers, and its body is long and wide.
  You brush your fingers over its raised, green scales 
*if (yr1_07_19_20_6_4 = 2)
  The whimsical flamingo stands at perfect flamingo formation, balancing on one leg. 
*if (yr1_07_19_20_6_4 = 3)
  The giraffe stands taller than the other jumpers, looking down on the rest from its great height.
*if ((yr1_07_19_20_6_4 = 2) or (yr1_07_19_20_6_4 = 3))
  You trace the length of its graceful neck 
*if (yr1_07_19_20_6_4 = 4)
  The lion, frozen in a permanent roar, stands regally near the center.
  You run your fingers over its mane, flowing in an imagined wind,
as you position yourself to climb atop its back.

*if ((yr1_07_19_20_6_1 = true) and (yr1_07_19_20_6_5 = 0))
  *if ((yr1_07_19_20_6 = 1) or (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 4))
    *fake_choice
      #I glance over at ${part} as ${p_they} settle onto the zebra next to me.
        *set yr1_07_19_20_6_5 1
      #I pat at the front half of the ${jumper} in an invitation to join me. ♥
        *set yr1_07_19_20_6_5 2
        *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 1)
          *set b_rom +1
        *else
          *set t_rom +1
        *set bol +1
      #I pat at the back half of the ${jumper} in an invitation to join me. ♥
        *set yr1_07_19_20_6_5 3
        *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 1)
          *set b_rom +1
        *else
          *set t_rom +1
        *set bol +1        
      #As I hoist myself onto the ${jumper}, I feel ${part} settle behind me. ♥
        *set yr1_07_19_20_6_5 3
        *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 1)
          *set b_rom +1
        *else
          *set t_rom +1
        *set shy +1        
  *elseif ((yr1_07_19_20_6 = 2) or (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 5))
    *set yr1_07_19_20_6_5 1
  *else
    *fake_choice
      #${rash} settles onto the zebra next to me.
        *set yr1_07_19_20_6_5 1
      #I pat the front of the ${jumper}, inviting ${rash} to take a seat, and climb on behind ${r_them}. ♥
        *set yr1_07_19_20_6_5 2
        *set r_rom +1
        *set bol +1
      #After I settle onto the ${jumper}, ${rash} climbs on behind me. ♥
        *set yr1_07_19_20_6_5 3
        *set r_rom +1
        *set shy +1
*if (yr1_07_19_20_6_1 = false)
  *set yr1_07_19_20_6_5 1

*if (yr1_07_19_20_6_5 = 0)
  *bug

*if (yr1_07_19_20_6_5 = 1)
  You settle onto the ${jumper}, and ${part} hoists ${p_them}self onto the zebra beside you.
  *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 5)
    Claudia is quick to follow her ${t_sib}, climbing into the space between Tony and the pole. 
  *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 3)
    You almost laugh at the contrast.
    $!{g_they} looks like ${t_they} should be on the back of
    *if (yr1_04_08_20_i != 0)
      ${g_their}
    *else
      a
    motorcycle rather than riding a carousel with $!{g_their} skinny jeans tucked into a pair of leather boots and aviators hanging from ${g_their} loose button-up.
*elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6_5 = 2)
  You pat the front of the ${jumper} with a cheeky grin and invite ${part} to take a seat.
  *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 1)
    $!{b_they} raises ${b_their} eyebrows at you but ultimately obeys, throwing one of ${b_their} long legs over the ${jumper} like it takes no effort at all.

    *if (style = 1)
      "Show off," you tease.
    *else
      You bite your bottom lip.

    Bertie shifts around to look a you, a sly smile on ${b_their} lips.
  *elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 3)
    ${rash} matches your grin and swings a leg over the ${jumper}.
   
    "No need for a pole dance," you quip.

    $!{r_they} shifts around and flashes you an innocent look.
    "Who?
    Me?"

    You roll your eyes.
  *elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 4)
    Tony grabs the pole, ${t_their} arm stretching out
    *if ((t_gender = "m") and (height <= 68))
      over your head.
    *else
      in front of you.
    $!{t_they} leans in so close you almost expect ${t_them} to kiss you here in this crowd.
    But at the last minute ${t_they} swings ${t_them}self into position on the ${jumper}, and you let out a breath.        
  *else
    *bug

  When ${p_they} is comfortable, you hop onto the back and rest a hand lightly on ${p_their} waist.

  *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 1)
    Bertie reaches out and laces ${b_their} fingers with yours, coaxing you closer.
  *elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 3)
    ${rash} leans into you.
  *else
    Tony's fingers find your thigh and trace absent-minded 
    *if (headscarf = false)
      designs on your bare skin.
    *else
      designs.    

  You inhale ${p_their} 
  *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 1)
    scent—sawdust—and
  *elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 3)
    scent—sunscreen—and
  *elseif (t_gender = "f")
    scent—tobacco and cedar—and
  *else
    scent—tobacco and vanilla—and
  close your eyes.
*elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6_5 = 3)
  Swinging one leg over its side and grabbing the pole for leverage, you make yourself comfortable.
  Then you feel ${part}'s arm brush against your skin, sending shivers down your spine, as ${p_they} grips the shiny pole.
  *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 != 3)
    When you glance up at ${p_them}, ${p_they} raises a mischievous eyebrow at you.

    $!{p_they} rests against the ${jumper}, perpendicular to you, ${p_their} legs crossed over each other at the ankle.
    Leaning ever so slightly backward, but not so much that ${p_they}'s supporting your weight, you brush against the arm holding onto the pole.
    
    *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 1)
      Bertie lowers ${b_their} arm down the pole so that it's tucking you into the ride.
      Almost like a hug—almost.      
    *else
      Tony shifts and rests ${t_their} arm on your head.

      You look up, displacing ${t_them}.
      *if ((hair = true) and (headscarf = false))
        "Gonna ruffle my hair next?" you quip.

        "I'd be happy to ruffle your feathers," ${t_they} says with a sly smirk.

        *if (style = 1)
          You shake your head and laugh.
          "I'm sure you would."

          $!{t_they} answers with a grin, moving ${t_their} arm so that it's brushing against you again.
        *else
          "You're as bad as-as ${rash}," you stammer.

          Tony laughs, but ${t_they} moves ${t_their} arm so that it's brushing against you again.

          You ignore ${t_them} and the goosebumps that break out where 
          *if (headscarf = false)
            ${t_their} bare skin touches yours.
          *else
            ${t_they} touches you.
      *else
        "Comfortable?" you ask.

        Tony laughs and moves ${t_their} arm so that it's brushing against yours again.
        "I am now."
  *else
    *set boo true
    
    ${rash} rests ${r_their} free hand on your upper thigh, earning you a disapproving stare from a nearby mother.
    *if (style = 1)
      You flash her a bright smile and a wink, and she looks away, flustered.

      ${rash} laughs and murmurs in your ear.
      "Nice job, ${r_nn1}."

      "I aim to please."
    *elseif (style = 2)
      You glare back, and she looks down her nose at you.

      ${rash} scoffs.
      "I thought the puritans were finished burning people at the stake," ${r_they} mutters.

      You tamp down a chuckle.
    *else
      You shrink away from her glare, but shrinking [i]away[/i] from [i]her[/i] means pressing [i]into ${rash}[/i].

      $!{r_they} whispers in your ear.
      "Don't worry, I'll protect you from the puritans."

      "It's [i]your[/i] hand she disapproves of," you chide.

    "Shall we give her a show?"

    *fake_choice
      #I lean into ${r_them}.  "Definitely."
        *set bol +1
        You let out a light laugh and lean into ${rash}'s casual embrace.
        "Definitely."

        You feel rather than see the smile that spreads across ${rash}'s lips and ${r_they} presses a kiss onto your shoulder.
        $!{r_they} rests ${r_their} chin against your neck.
      #My frown deepens.  "No."
        *set hos +1
        Your frown deepens.
        "No."

        "Aw, come on, ${r_nn1}," ${rash} whispers into your ear.
        *if ((hair = true) and (headscarf = false))
          $!{r_their} warm breath tickles your skin.
        
        When ${r_they} starts tracing light circles over the skin of your thigh, you blink away the distraction.

        "No shows!" you hiss.

        "No shows," ${r_they} promises.

        But apparently that was show enough because the snooty mother's glare intensifies before she pointedly turns around to ignore you.
      #I elbow ${r_them}.  "Behave."
        *set shy +1
        You shift around and poke an elbow into ${rash}'s ribcage.
        "Behave."

        The movement displaces ${r_their} hand, but while your arm is raised, ${r_they} takes the opportunity to wrap an arm around your waist.
    *if ((style = 1) or (style = 3))
      ${rash} pulls you closer, and the snooty mother gasps before averting her scandalized eyes.     

    "You're incorrigible."

    ${rash} laughs.
    "You like it."

    You can't deny the accusation.
*else
  *bug

After a few minutes of excited chatter and childish giggles, the ride starts up again.
The wind hits your face, a reprieve from the hot day.
You smile.
When you look over at ${part}, ${p_they} smiles back.
*if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 5)
  Even Claudia looks happy.

*if (yr1_07_19_20_6_5 = 1)
  *if ((((yr1_07_19_20_6_1 = true) and (yr1_07_19_20_6_2_b != 3)) and (yr1_07_19_20_6_2_r != 3)) and (yr1_07_19_20_6_2_t != 4))
    *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 != 2)
      *fake_choice
        #I turn my attention to something else.
          *gosub people_watching
        #I reach out and take ${part}'s hand. ♥
          *set yr1_07_19_20_6_5_1 true
          *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 1)
            *set b_rom +1
          *elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 3)
            *set r_rom +1
          *elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 4) 
            *set t_rom +1
          *else
            *bug
          *set bol +1
          You reach out and take ${part}'s hand.
          *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 1)
            $!{b_their} smile grows winder, and ${b_they} squeezes your hand.          
          *elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 3)
            $!{r_they} quirks an eyebrow at you and ${r_they} accepts your hand.
          *else
            $!{t_they} takes your hand, rubbing ${t_their} thumb over your wrist.
        #${part} reaches out and takes my hand. ♥
          *set yr1_07_19_20_6_5_1 true
          *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 1)
            *set b_rom +1
          *elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 3)
            *set r_rom +1
          *elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 4) 
            *set t_rom +1
          *else
            *bug
          *set shy +1
          ${part} reaches out and takes your hand.
          *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 1)
            ${part} laces ${b_their} fingers with yours, giving your hand a light squeeze.
            *if (style = 1)
              You look over at ${b_them} and smile, a smile ${b_they} readily returns.
            *else
              You smile to yourself, not quite ready to look the source of your delight in the face.
          *elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 3)
            $!{r_they} swings your hand in wild, playful loops,
            *if (style != 2)
              eliciting a laugh
            *else
              earning an eyeroll
            from you.

            *if (style != 2)
              $!{r_they} laughs too, softly, before squeezing your hand.

              You squeeze back, and soon you devolve into a contest to see who can squeeze the other's hand more tightly.
            *else
              $!{r_they} only laugh at your rebuff.
          *else
            $!{t_they} places a light kiss on your wrist before letting your joined hands swing between the jumpers.
            *if (style = 1)
              You squeeze ${t_their} hand and smile at ${t_them}.
            *else
              Your chest is tight with something.
              You might call it happiness.
              Or maybe potential.

    *gosub people_watching
  *else
    *gosub people_watching  
  With something like regret settling into your chest, you climb off your ${jumper} and relinquish your steed to a new rider.
*elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6_5 = 2)
  *page_break
  *gosub people_watching

  *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 1)
    Bertie untangles ${b_their} fingers from yours,
  *elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 3)
    ${rash} leans forward again,
  *else
    Tony squeezes your thigh before letting go, 
  and the two of you climb off of the ${jumper}.
*else
  *page_break
  *gosub people_watching

  *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 1)
    Bertie's hand drops from the pole to your shoulder, giving it a light squeeze before ${b_they} shifts ${b_their} weight back to ${b_their} feet.
    $!{b_they} offers you a hand to get down.

    You don't need one.
    $!{b_they} knows that.
    $!{b_they} knows that [i]you[/i] know that.
    You take it anyway.
    For balance.
    At least that's what you tell yourself.
  *elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 3)
    ${rash} presses a light kiss against your jaw and bounds off the ${jumper} before you have time to react.
    You climb off the carousel,
    *if (style = 1)
      smiling to yourself.
    *elseif (style = 2)
      rubbing the spot with the back of your hand to get rid of the cooties.
    *else
      your fingertips brushing over the spot.
  *else
    Tony lets ${t_their} hand brush over your waist as ${t_they} pushes ${t_them}self off the ${jumper}.
    You slide off with ${t_them}, ${t_their} hand still at your waist.
    Holding in you breath, time stands still—until a horde of children swarms the carousel.
    Then ${t_their} hand drops, and you head for the gate.
  
*if (gosub = true)
  *label people_watching
  *set yr1_07_19_20_6_6 true
  *page_break
  You glance around at the people on the carousel.
  Mostly parents with small children, but you catch a few glimpses of more interesting pairs: an elderly couple who looks at each other like it's love at first sight all over again; a teenager who obviously doesn't want to be schlepping her little brother around.

  *if (boo = true)
    Your eyes settle on the same woman whose disapproving glare so
    *if (style = 1)
      amused
    *elseif (style = 2)
      annoyed
    *else
      unnerved 
    you earlier.
    She is
  *else
    In front of you is
  a blonde woman with a perfectly coiffed ponytail that juts out of the back of her head.
  She sits with her legs crossed on the very edge of a hippopotamus, a pair of sepia-tinted sunglasses perched on the top of her head.
  [i]Tiffany[/i], you decide.
  [i]Or maybe Ashley.[/i]
  Her daughter, with a messy head of caramel-colored curls, is far more pleased with her tiger than her pinched-face mother.

  You check Tiffany's right hand: no wedding ring.
  She's divorced.
  This is her weekend with Mackenzie.
            
  Her dad calls her Mack—Mack-n-Cheese when he's feeling, well, [i]cheesy[/i].
  Tiffany hates that.
  Mackenzie will too, when she's older and too cool for her old man.
  But not yet.

  *page_break
            
  You laugh softly at the picture you've put together.

  ${part} shifts around to look at you.
  *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 1)
    "What are you looking at?" ${b_they} asks you with a matching smile.
  *elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 2)
    "What is it?" ${g_they} asks.
  *elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 3)
    "What have you found that you think is more interesting than me?" ${r_they} asks with a charming smile.
    Or at least a smile that ${r_they} thinks is charming.
    *if ((yr1_07_19_20_6_1 = true) and (style = 2))

      You roll your eyes. 
  *else
    "What hidden treasure have you found?" ${t_they} asks with an easy smile.
                
  *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 5)
    Not wanting to pass along your propensity to judge random strangers to Claudia, you decide it's time for a game.
    Your lips curl into a mischievous smile.
    "I'm trying to find the spy," you say in a grave tone.
 
    Right on cue, her eyes widen, bright with curiosity.

    "The spy?" Tony asks with a laugh disguised in a cough.

    You turn to Claudia.
    "Who do [i]you[/i] think it is?"

    "Him," she says, pointing to a middle-aged man a few jumpers ahead.

    "It's not polite to point, squirt," Tony chides.
    
    You turn to look at him, pursing your lips.
    The spy in question wears fitted linen trousers, a short-sleeved button-up, and a mustard yellow bow tie.
   
    "What do you think his mission is?" you ask Claudia.

    She cocks her head and frowns, but her frown quickly gives way to a giggle.
    "Maybe he wants ${g_titi}'s soufflé recipe."

    Tony smiles.
    "Then we must pity him because ${gabby} will never reveal it."

    Claudia giggles again.

    You smile at the way she comes alive when she laughs.
    "Do you see any other spies?" you ask.    
  *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 != 5)
    You laugh at your own whimsy.
    "Oh, don't mind me.
    I'm just making life stories for the people around us.
    You know, judging a book by its cover and whatnot."
                  
  *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 1)
    Bertie chuckles at you.
    "Care to share?"  

    You smile.              
  *elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 2)
    ${gabby} raises an eyebrow at you.
    "What kind of life story would you give me?"

    You snort.
    "You don't want to know."

    $!{g_their} shakes ${g_their} head, hiding a half smile.
    "Then whose tragic back story have you constructed?"

    Laughing, you say, "I didn't say anything about tragic."
  *elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 3)
    ${rash}'s eyes light up with interest.
    "Coming up with racy stories in public?
    I underestimated you, ${r_nn1}."

    *if ((yr1_07_19_20_6_1 = true) and (style = 2))
      You sigh.
    *else
      You shake your head and laugh at ${r_them}.
    "Nobody said anything about racy."
  *else
    Tony throws ${t_their} head back in a howl of laughter.
    "Is this how you keep yourself entertained in public?" ${t_they} asks.

    "Sometimes," you answer with a smile.
    "Sometimes I play find the spy."

    "Will you share the fruits of your labor?"

    With a laugh, you agree.
  *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 != 5)
    You tell ${p_them} about Mack-n-Cheese and her prissy mother, careful to keep your voice low, hoping that it doesn't catch on the breeze.
    "You pick one," you invite.

    *page_break

    You watch ${part}'s eyes scan the crowd, settling on someone a few jumpers ahead of you.
  *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 1)
    *if (yr1_07_19_20_6_1 = true)
      Perhaps not so surprisingly,
    Bertie's eyes have landed on the older couple you noticed earlier.
  *elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 2)
    $!{g_they} bites ${g_their} bottom lip, pulling ${g_their} mouth into a frown.
    "That man," ${g_they} says, "in the bow tie."
    You see him ahead of you, sitting awkwardly on the back of an ostrich.
  *elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 3)
    $!{r_they} smiles.
    "The college kids."

    $!{r_they} doesn't need to point, the 'kids' in question are obvious.
    Loud, both by way of noise [i]and[/i] apparel, they draw your eye like moth to flame.                
  *else
    A smile curves around ${t_their} lips.
    "How about that kid and his sister?" ${t_they} suggests with a nod toward the siblings you noticed earlier.

  *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 != 5)
    You nod your acquiescence.
    "Who 
    *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 2)
      is he?"
    *else
      are they?"

  *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 1)
    Bertie grins.
    *if ((yr1_07_19_20_6_1 = true) and (b_rom >= 4))
      "Isn't it obvious?
      They've been together for fifty years."

      You glance back at your subjects.
      The way they look at each other—you could believe it.
    *else
      "They're both widowed," ${b_they} explains.
      "This is their second chance at love."

      You raise your eyebrows.

      "You disagree?"

      You shake your head.
      "No, you just surprised me."

      Bertie nods.

    "How did they meet?" you ask.

    *if ((yr1_07_19_20_6_1 = true) and (b_rom >= 4)) 
      "They were high school sweethearts."

      "Did they get married right out of school?"

      *if (yr1_07_19_20_6_2_b = 3)
        "No," Bertie says, a frown at ${b_their} lips.
        "Something kept them apart."

        You raise an eyebrow.
        "What?"

        "Family.
        Harold's mother didn't approve of Cynthia."

        You frown too.
        "Why not?"

        $!{b_they} shrugs.
        "Maybe she wanted him to marry her best friend's daughter?"

        *if (book = "Northanger Abbey")
          "A veritable Catherine De Bourgh!" you exclaim.

          Bertie scrunches ${b_their} eyebrows up.

          You laugh.
          "Nevermind."
        *else
          "The plot thickens."

        Bertie smiles.
        "Who could resist a forbidden romance?"

        "Not Harold and Cynthia, apparently."

        "Not Harold and Cynthia," ${b_they} agrees.
        "They married after Harold finished his degree in engineering."

      *else
        "No, Harold had to go fight in the war."

        "In the war?!" you laugh.
        "Which war?"

        Bertie shrugs.
        "The Great War."

        "Do you mean to tell me that Harold is nearly one-hundred and twenty-five years old?
        He looks good for his age."

        $!{b_they} waves away your objection.
        "Leave your logic at the gate, ${name}."

        You shake your head and laugh.
                
        "Cynthia wrote him letters during the war, and when he came home, they got married."

        "They've been together ever since."

        "They've been together ever since," Bertie agrees.
    *else
      "A party in the retirement home.
      Or a game night maybe?"

      You laugh.
      "Shuffle board?"

      "Shuffle board," Bertie agrees.
      "Cynthia is surprisingly competitive.
      She knocked Harold off his feet, literally.
      Love at first slight."
                  
  *elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 2)
    "Not a professor," ${gabby} says.
    "That would be too obvious."

    "Not a professor.
    A lawyer?" you offer.

    $!{g_they} shakes ${g_their} head.
    "An accountant."

    You glance back at the accountant for a better look.
    He wears fitted linen trousers and a short-sleeved button-up, his bow tie a mustard yellow.
    "In the fall and winter, he wears tweed."

    ${gabby} nods.
    *if (yr1_07_19_20_6_1 = true)
      "He has a cat."

      "Long hair or short hair?"

      $!{g_they} smiles.
      "Neither—a hairless cat."

      You laugh.
      Even ${g_their} daydreams are contrary.
      "He prefers tea to coffee."
      Smiling still at the picture coming together, you turn back to ${gabby} and see a cloud pass over ${g_their} face.
      Your smile falters—

      "He's lonely."

      —and then disappears.

      *fake_choice
        #I look back at the accountant. 
        *if (yr1_07_19_20_6_1 = true)
          #I reach out and touch ${gabby}'s arm. ♥
            *set yr1_07_19_20_6_6_g true
            *set g_rom +1
            You reach out, your hand landing lightly on ${gabby}'s forearm.
            $!{g_they} starts at the touch, ${g_their} wide eyes finding yours.
            Squeezing ${g_their} arm, you smile.

            "He doesn't have to be."

            ${gabby} raises an eyebrow at you.

            With another light squeeze, you release ${g_their} arm. 

      "The cafe near his apartment has a game night on Tuesdays," you say.
      "He goes every week.
      He makes the best rosemary scones—everyone loves them."     

      "He's a baker then?" ${gabby} asks with a slight smile.

      "Not like Judy, but yes, for fun."

      "The cat likes to sit in a basket near the oven when he bakes."             
    *else
      "With a matching jacket."

      "Does he smoke a pipe?"

      ${gabby} wrinkles ${g_their} nose.
      "No."

      *if (yr1_05_30_20_g = 4)
        "What's that look for?
        [i]You[/i] smoke."

        "Not a [i]pipe[/i]," ${g_they} says with such a look of contempt you can't help laughing.
                    
      "Why not?"

      "He's straight-laced."

  *elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 3)
    *if ((yr1_06_14_20_2_3_1 = 2) or (yr1_06_14_20_2_3_1 = 3))
      ${rash} gets that intense look ${r_they} had when ${r_they} sketched you, ${r_their} eyes pouring over the kids like they're works of art themselves.
    *else
      The humor and joy drains from ${rash}'s face, and ${r_they} looks over at the kids with cold, assessing eyes.
    There's interest there, in ${r_their} dark eyes, but it's not sexual.
    ${r_they} looks at them with the eyes of an appraiser.

    You glance over at them too.
    The four of them have piled onto an elephant that's barely large enough to hold them.
    One of them, a kid with brown skin and curly hair, wears a Hawaiian shirt, coral colored shorts, and toms, a pair of glasses sun glasses sitting on the top of their head.
    They straddle the elephant in the middle.

    Directly behind them, arms around their waist, is a a blonde, her hair cropped and spiky, in acid-washed jeans, a yellow croptop, and rainbow suspenders.
    Her laugh is loud and contagious.

    Another kid sits on the elephants head.
    He wears a floral button up, short sleeves rolled halfway up his arms, ripped jeans tight against his legs.

    The final passenger sits in his lap in a frilly floral romper and leather sandals.
    Her long dark hair sits in a bun at the back of her head.

    "Well?" you ask.
    "What's the verdict?"

    "You can't rush art," ${rash} complains.

    "You're not painting them!"

    $!{r_they} gives you a sideways glance and frowns.

    "Are they artists, too, do you think?"

    "Isn't everybody?"
    $!{r_they} focuses ${r_their} attention on you again with intent eyes, but ${r_they} doesn't wait for an answer.
    "They wouldn't call themselves artists," ${r_they} concludes.
    "At least not primarily.
    They're from Farleigh, probably.
    Came down from the university there.
    No art program."

    "You sound more like a detective than a storyteller," you chide.
    *if (org <= 45)
      "I don't care about probability—where's the fun? 
      The adventure?"
    *else
      "You're supposed to make something up, not try to figure out the banal truth."

      "Does the truth have to be banal?"

      You stifle a groan.
      "You're bad at this!"

    ${rash} raises ${r_their} chin at you.
    "Think you can do better, ${r_nn1}?"

    "I don't think, I know!"

    "Well then prove it!"

    "Well obviously they're all part of a spy ring—"

    "—a spy ring??
    That's not realistic at all."

    "Well then [i]you[/i] should come up with something better than 'they're just a bunch of kids from the university.'"
    
  *else
    The older girl has brown, curly hair.
    Rather than sitting on her gazelle, she stands, gripping the pole with one hand, scrolling on her phone with the other.
    Her brother, seven or eight, sits on his knees on the back of a rhinoceros.

    *if (((t >= 3) or (t_rom >= 3)) and (yr1_07_19_20_6_2_t != 4))
      "Her parents are off somewhere else.
      Mia's on babysitting duty."

      "They're at the peony show."

      Tony raises ${t_their} eyebrows.
      "Did they enter?"

      "Definitely," you affirm with a smile.
      *if (yr1_07_19_20_2 = 5)
        "I voted for them!"

      "Will they win?"

      You shrug.
      "They'll be hard pressed to beat ${ines}."

      $!{t_they} nods.
      "Sean's glad he doesn't have to sit through all that."

      "But Mia isn't happy to be stuck with the kid."

      "She'd rather be with her friends," Tony agrees.
      "But mostly she's annoyed that her parents aren't doing their job."
      $!{t_they} frowns, like the words have left a bitter taste in ${t_their} mouth.

      *fake_choice
        #I add another piece to the jigsaw puzzle of Mia and Sean.
          *set yr1_07_19_20_6_5_t 1
        *if (yr1_07_19_20_6_5 = 1)
          #I reach over and pat ${t_their} shoulder.
            *set yr1_07_19_20_6_5_t 2
            *set t +1
            You reach over, and your hand comes to a light rest on Tony's shoulder.
            You squeeze it, and when ${t_they} looks over at you, ${t_they} smiles.
        *if ((yr1_07_19_20_6_5 = 1) and (yr1_07_19_20_6_5_1 = true))
          #I squeeze ${t_their} hand. ♥
            *set yr1_07_19_20_6_5_t 3
            *set t_rom +1
            You squeeze Tony's hand.
        *if ((yr1_07_19_20_6_5 = 1) and (yr1_07_19_20_6_5_1 = false))
          #I reach out and take ${t_their} hand. ♥
            *set yr1_07_19_20_6_5_t 3
            *set t_rom +1
            You reach out and take Tony's hand.
            $!{t_they} eyebrows shoot up, but then ${t_they} smiles and squeezes your hand.
        *if (yr1_07_19_20_6_5 = 2)
          #I find ${t_their} hand and lace my fingers with ${t_theirs}. ♥
            *set yr1_07_19_20_6_5_t 3
            *set t_rom +1
            You reach around and lace your fingers with Tony's.
            $!{t_they} half shifts around and leans into you.
          #I squeeze ${t_them} against me. ♥
            *set yr1_07_19_20_6_5_t 3
            *set t_rom +1
            You lean forward and wrap your arms around Tony's waist.
            When you squeeze, ${t_they} rests ${t_their} arms over yours.
        *if (yr1_07_19_20_6_5 = 3)
          #I lean into ${t_them} and rest my head against ${t_their} chest. ♥
            *set yr1_07_19_20_6_5_t 3
            *set t_rom +1
            You lean back and into Tony's arm and press your head into the crook where ${t_their} shoulder meets ${t_their} chest.
            $!{t_they} looks down at you and smiles, ${t_their} hand coming to a rest on your waist.
      *if ((yr1_07_19_20_6_5_t = 2) or (yr1_07_19_20_6_5_t = 3))
        "Were you a moping teenager running after a baby sister?" you tease.

        A wave of tension roils through ${t_their} shoulders, and you doubt yourself.

        "No," ${t_they} answers after a moment of pause, voice low and hesitant.
        Then ${t_they} chuckles.
        "Besides, I was nearly twenty-two by the time Claudia came along.
        My moping days were long gone."

        "Ah, but that's where you're wrong," you add in a light tone, hoping to recapture the mood.
        Twenty-two is the optimal age for moping."

        $!{t_they} laughs.
        "Then god help me in fifteen years.
        Eight is bad enough."

        *if (yr1_07_19_20_6_5_t = 2)
          You squeeze ${t_their} shoulder again.
        *elseif (style = 1)
          *if (yr1_07_19_20_6_5 = 1)
            You squeeze ${t_their} hand again.
          *if (yr1_07_19_20_6_5 = 2)
            You rest your chin against ${t_their} shoulder.
          *if (yr1_07_19_20_6_5 = 3)
            You look up at ${t_them}.
          "I'm sure you'll do fine."          
        *else
          *if (yr1_07_19_20_6_5 = 1)
            You squeeze ${t_their} hand again.
          *if (yr1_07_19_20_6_5 = 2)
            You squeeze ${t_their} hand.
          *if (yr1_07_19_20_6_5 = 3)
            You find the hand resting against your waist and squeeze ${t_their} wrist.

        "Thank you, ${name}," ${t_they} says quietly.

        "So Mia's on babysitting duty today," you say, drawing the conversation back to your game, "but she'd rather be with her friends."

        Tony nods.
        "She'll catch up with them later tonight when the peony show is over."

        "There's a girl in her class she has a crush on."

        Tony's lips quirk upward.
        "First kiss?"

        "Oh definitely. 
        On the Ferris wheel—"

        "On the Ferris wheel—" you both say at the same time.

        You laugh and repeat, "On the Ferris wheel."

        "During the fireworks," Tony adds.

        "I think they'll shut off the rides before the fireworks."

        "For shame, ${name}!" ${t_they} chides.
        "Don't you believe in the power of young love?"        
          
    *else
      "Their parents are in the crowd," Tony says.
      "Every time we loop around, they wave to Mia and Sean."

      "Sean waves back."

      "Enthusiastically," Tony agrees.
      "But Mia keeps her eyes on her phone."

      "She's annoyed that they dragged her here today."

      Tony clicks ${t_their} tongue.
      "She wants to be here, but with her friends."

      You nod.

      "She'll give in later and actually enjoy the Ferris wheel with her uncool parents."

  *if ((yr1_07_19_20_6 != 3) and (yr1_07_19_20_6 != 5))
    *page_break

    You smile at ${part}'s story.
    "Shall we play again?"

  *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 5)
    She whips her head around to examine the crowd, and the three
  *if ((yr1_07_19_20_6 != 3) and (yr1_07_19_20_6 != 5))
    $!{p_they} nods, and the two 
  *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 != 3)
    of you take turns selecting new victims 
  *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 3)
    The two of you bicker back and forth about the kids
  until the carousel begins to slow and finally come to a stop.
  *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 3)
    It's only after you've climbed off the ${jumper} and get a good look at ${rash}'s eyes that you see the glint of humor in them.
  *return

*if (yr1_07_19_20_6_2_b = 3)
  *set yr1_07_19_20_7 true
  "So what now?" Bertie asks with a tight smile.

  You shrug.
  "We could go find Alex and your ${b_sibs}?"

  $!{b_they} nods.
  "Let's do that."
*elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6_2_r = 3)
  "Thanks for the ride," ${r_they} says with an easy smile.
  "Catch you around, yeah?"

  You nod.
  "Yeah."

  Then ${rash} floats off into the crowd, and you set out to find Alex.
*elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6_2_t = 4)
  *set yr1_07_19_20_7 false
  "Thanks for the ride," Tony says, dragging ${t_their} hand through ${t_their} loose curls.
  "I'll see you later."

  You nod
*elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6 != 1)
  You glance over at ${part}
  *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 5)
    and Claudia
  and consider inviting
  *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 5)
    them
  *else
    ${p_them}
  to join you for fireworks at the lake.

  *fake_choice
    #I invite ${p_them}.
      *set yr1_07_19_20_7 true
    #I don't invite ${p_them}
*else
  *set yr1_07_19_20_7 true

When you catch up with 
*if (yr1_07_19_20_4 = true)
  Alex and Frankie
*else
  Charlie and Judy
again, they have already found
*if (yr1_07_19_20_4 = true)
  Charlie,
*else
  Frankie and your best friend,
*if ((yr1_07_19_20_5 = true) or (yr1_07_19_20_6 != 1))
  *if (yr1_07_19_20_5 = true)
    and Judy
  *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 != 1)
    and Bertie
  *if ((yr1_07_19_20_5 = true) and (yr1_07_19_20_6 != 1))
    have
  *else
    has
  also joined the group.
*else
  someone pulls out a map so that you can choose where to go next.

*set boo false
*if ((((yr1_07_19_20_6 != 1) and (yr1_07_19_20_6 != 5)) and (yr1_07_19_20_6_1 = true)) and (yr1_07_19_20_7 = true))
  *if ((yr1_07_19_20_4_2 = true) or (yr1_06_11_20_2 = 4))
    *set yr1_07_19_20_7_1 true

*if (yr1_07_19_20_7_1 = true)
  Bertie glances at you, a pained frown on ${b_their} lips.
    
  *if (yr1_07_19_20_4_2 = true)
    Frankie glances between the two of you with a matching expression.
    The resemblance between the two
    *if (f_gender = "f")
      siblings
    *else
      brothers
    jumps out at you, but the confusion on Frankie's face renders ${f_them} even younger.
    
    Bertie's face, meanwhile, is all hard lines and angles.
    $!{b_they} won't meet your eye.

  *if (yr1_06_11_20_2 = 4)
    Charlie bites her bottom lip and looks to her older ${b_sib} for her cue.
    A miniscule shake of Bertie's head seems to be the answer she was looking for because she drops her eyes to the ground.
    When she looks up, she shoots
    *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 != 4)
      ${part} a confused look.
    *else
      Tony a dirty look.

  Either oblivious to the undercurrent of tension or looking for an escape, Judy is the first to speak.
  "So where to next?"

  The seven of you break into two groups, joined roughly at the center by the force of Alex and Frankie's attraction.
  Charlie, who eyes you with suspicion, sticks to the outer edge with her older ${b_sib} and Judy.
  You find yourself on the opposite side with ${part}, who shoots you an occasional concerned glance.
*else
  *if ((yr1_07_19_20_4_2 = true) and (yr1_07_19_20_6_1 = false))
    Bertie smiles at you, but ${b_their} quiet interest can't surmount the high spirits of the rest of the group, and Charlie is soon marching you through the crowds on the hunt for short lines and fast rides.
  *if (yr1_07_19_20_4 = true)
    Judy, meanwhile, regales you with tales of Charlie's pie-eating prowess, for which she earned second place in the contest, as your party wanders deeper into the festival.
  *else
    When you ask Alex about the Ferris wheel, meanwhile, ${a_they} turns to you with a blush.

    "Oh, it was, uh, it was great."

    Frankie quickly recaptures ${a_their} attention, and you watch them make cow eyes at each other until
    *if (a_feelings = true)
      your heart hurts.
    *else
      you want to puke.
      So not long.

Although Talverton is small, it's packed to the gills with things to do today.
Taking turns picking what you want to do, the day flies by until the sun starts to set.

*if (yr1_07_19_20_7_1 = true)
  When it begins to get dark enough to think about getting ready for the fireworks show, Alex invites everyone to follow you back to the other side of the lake.

  "I don't know," Charlie says, her bottom lip caught between her teeth.
  She glances at her older ${b_sib}.
  "It would be nice to stay in town for the fireworks, like we used to as kids.
  Wouldn't it?"

  With a glance between Alex and Frankie, Bertie frowns.
  $!{b_they} then turns ${b_their} attention toward you before shaking ${b_their} head and forcing a smile.
  "I think most people would prefer to accept the invitation, ducky."
  
  Charlie nods, her lips forming a little pout.
  "I guess it's settled then."

*page_break The Lake

Alex's grandmother made the quilt you're sitting on under the shade of a large beech tree.
Shade that's quickly becoming irrelevant as the sun sets.
The log cabin pattern, made mostly with leftover fabric scraps, is as colorful as the group of people sitting on it.
On one of the corners, a cooler full of half-melted ice and not-quite-cold drinks sits propped open.

You sit with ${part}, Alex and Frankie a few feet away on the other end of the quilt.
*if (per >= 58)
  When ${f_they} manages to tear ${f_their} eyes away from your best friend,
Frankie occasionally looks back at you
*if (yr1_07_19_20_7 = true)
  and ${part}
*if (yr1_07_19_20_7_1 = true)
  with a frown.
*elseif ((((yr1_07_19_20_6 = 1) and (yr1_07_19_20_6_1 = true)) and (yr1_07_19_20_6_2_b != 3)) and (b_rom >= 4))
  with a sly smile.
*elseif (yr1_07_19_20_7)
  with curiosity.
*else
  with an easy smile.
*if ((((yr1_07_19_20_6 = 1) and (yr1_07_19_20_6_1 = true)) and (yr1_07_19_20_6_2_b != 3)) and (b_rom >= 4))
  Bertie performs the same service for ${f_them}.

*if (yr1_07_19_20_7 = true)
  *if (yr1_07_19_20_6_1 = true)
    *if (yr1_07_19_20_7_1 = true)
      "What did the two of [i]you[/i] get up to today?" Frankie asks in an accusatory tone.
    *else
      "Where [i]were[/i] the two of you earlier today?" Frankie asks, all innocence.
      "Where did you [i]get off[/i] to?"

    *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 1)
      Bertie rolls ${b_their} eyes.
      "I can still put you in time out if I need to."

      Frankie scowls like only a little ${f_sib} can.
      But then ${f_they} turns back to you.
      "That's not an answer to my question."

      Bertie reaches ${b_their} long arm out and closes the distance between ${b_them} and Frankie with a sound smack to the back of the head.

      "Hey!" Frankie protests.

      The bickering will only devolve further if you don't intervene.
    *elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 2)
      ${gabby} frowns at ${f_them} and tucks ${g_their} hands into ${g_their} lap.
      $!{g_they} glances back at you.

      Frankie just smiles, waiting for you to answer.
    *elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 3)
      ${rash}'s lips curl into a smile.
      "Hoping to live vicariously through us?" 

      Frankie scoffs.
      
      "I'll take that as a yes," ${rash} says.

      Alex fidgets, but Frankie doesn't pick up on ${a_their} discomfort.
      "That doesn't answer the question," ${f_they} says.      
    *elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 4)
      Tony smiles at ${f_them}, but it's not the smile you've become familiar with.
      It's the one ${t_they} flashes at customers at [i]Bar None[/i].

      Tony cocks ${t_their} head toward Alex, ${t_their} eyes fixed on Frankie.
      "And what were the two of [i]you[/i] getting up to all by yourselves?"

      Alex fidgets, but Frankie doesn't pick up on ${a_their} discomfort.
      $!{f_they} shakes ${f_their} head with a grin.
      "Nuh-uh, deflecting's not going to save you."

      If Tony's mulish frown is any indication, ${t_they} has no intention of giving in, but you also know Frankie well enough to realize that ${f_they} won't back down when an opportunity to make someone squirm presents itself.
      So you intervene.  
    *else 
      *bug

    *set boo false
    *fake_choice
      #"We-we were on the carousel," I stutter.
        *set awk %+ 5
        *set yie %+ 5
        You reach up to touch your ${tic}.
        "We-we were on the carousel."

        *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 2)
          Frankie smiles at your discomposure.
          "Went for a ride?"

          "That's enough," ${gabby} snaps.
          "You're obviously making ${them} uncomfortable.
          *label stop_now
          You can stop now."

          Frankie raises ${f_their} hands in surrender.
          "It's all in good fun."

          ${gabby} frowns, and turns away, but Frankie does at least back off, focusing ${f_their} attention back on your friend.

          "I'm sorry," you find yourself saying to ${gabby}.
 
          "Don't be.
          $!{f_they}'s an ass."

          You laugh, and ${g_they} smiles, slightly.
          *goto fireworks
        *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 != 2)
          *label very_convincing
          "The carousel," Frankie drawls.
          "Very convincing."
        *if ((yr1_07_19_20_6 = 1) or (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 4))
          ${part} reaches out and laces ${p_their} fingers through yours.
        *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 3)
          ${rash} scoops you into ${r_their} lap.
          If you weren't already so irritated by Frankie's interrogation, you'd
          *if (style = 1)
            laugh at what you suppose is a display of support.
          *elseif (style = 2)
            scold ${rash} for ${r_their} display.
          *else
            remember to instead be flustered by ${rash}'s display.

        *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 1)
          "Shut up, ${frankie}," Bertie says.

          "Guilty conscience?"

          Alex shifts behind ${f_them} and tugs at ${f_their} wrist, and [i]${frankie}[/i] backs off.
        *elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 2)
          "$!{they} answered your question," ${gabby} snaps.
          "You're obviously making us uncomfortable.
          *goto stop_now
        *elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 3)
          ${rash} tightens ${r_their} grip around you, resting ${r_their} chin on your shoulder.
          "Jealous?"

          Frankie flushes, and Alex shifts around.
          "You're still avoiding the question."

          "And you can't take a hint,"
          *if ((((cha <= 43) or (dir >= 57)) or (hum <= 43)) or (yie <= 43))
            you retort.
          *else
            ${rash} retorts.
        *else
          Tony's body tenses.
          When you squeeze ${t_their} hand, ${t_they} relaxes again.
 
          "Believe it or not," ${t_they} says.
          "I don't care.

        *label party_poopers
        *if (yr1_07_19_20_7_1 = false)
          "You all are a bunch of party poopers," ${f_they} whines before turning away.

          ${part} shakes ${p_their} head, and you laugh the whole thing off.
        *else
          Frankie frowns at you before turning away.
          Your best friend, wringing ${a_their} hands, shoots you a concerned glance.

          "What's ${f_their} problem?" ${part} whispers to you, but your only answer is a frown.
      #"We rode the carousel," I answer with a shrug.
        *set dir %+ 5
        *set yie %+ 5
        You shrug like the subject couldn't matter less to you.
        "We rode the carousel."

        *goto very_convincing
      #"We went for a little ride," I say.
        *set awk %- 5
        *set dir %- 5
        *set gen %- 5
        *set yie %- 5
        You smile that same easy smile that Frankie thinks ${f_they}'s perfected.
        "We went for a ride."

        Frankie's eyebrows shoot up.
        "Oh?"   

        "It was very satisfying," you continue.
        *if ((yr1_07_19_20_6 = 1) or (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 4))
          ${part} snickers behind you.
        *elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 2)
          ${gabby} groans, and you flash ${g_them} an apologetic smile.
        *else
          ${rash} sidles up to you and draps an arm over your shoulder.
          
        *goto not_telling
      #"What we did or didn't do is none of your business," I say.
        *set cha %- 5
        *set dir %- 5
        *set gen %+ 5
        *set yie %- 5
        You fold your arms across your chest.
        "What we did or didn't do is none of your business."

        Frankie rolls ${f_their} eyes.
        "You're no fun."

        *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 1)
          "${name}'s got better things to do than entertain you, ${frankie}," Bertie says.
        *elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 2)
          ${gabby} scoffs.
          "Do they really put you in charge of children?"
        *elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 3)
          "I beg to differ," ${rash} says under ${r_their} breath.
        *else
          Tony laughs before leaning in to whisper to you.
          "$!{f_they} sounds just like Claudia when she's pouting."

          You bite your lip to hide your amusement.

        *label not_telling
        "You're really not going to tell me what you guys were doing?" Frankie whines.

        "I [i]did[/i] tell you: 
        *if (boo = true)
          what we were doing is none of your business," you repeat.
        *else
          we had a good long ride," you say.
          
        *goto party_poopers
  *else
    "What did you guys get up to today?" Frankie asks you and ${part}.

    *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 1)
      "We had a go on the carousel," Bertie answers.
    *elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 2)
      "The carousel," ${gabby} answers.
    *elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 3)
      "I took ${name} for a ride," ${rash} answers.

      You elbow ${r_them} in the side.
      "We rode the carousel."
    *else
      "We took Claudia on the carousel," Tony answers.

    "Wasn't that boring?" Frankie asks, ${f_their} nose wrinkled up.

    ${part} shrugs.

    "I like carousels," Alex interjects like a diplomat.

    Frankie smiles at ${a_them}.
    "But you like Ferris wheels more."

    *fake_choice
      *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 != 5)
        #I tell ${f_them} about our people watching. 
          "I like carousels," you start, "and besides, the ride is only half the fun.
          The other half is watching the people around you and making up outlandish stories about them."

          Frankie looks back at you, a raised eyebrow inviting you to continue.
 
          You tell ${f_them} about the blonde woman and her daughter, and ${part} picks up your thread.

          *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 1)
            "We saw a cute elderly couple, came up with their love story."

            Frankie wrinkles ${f_their} nose.
            "Old people aren't cute."

            Bertie laughs.      
      *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 != 5)
        #I tell ${f_them} about find the spy.
          *set f +1
          "I like carousels," you start, "and besides, the ride is only half the fun.
          The other half is watching the people around you and making up outlandish stories about them—" you glance over at Tony "—and in this case, flushing out the spy."

          "The spy?" Frankie asks, a dubious eyebrow raised.

          You laugh.
          "You pick someone out of the crowd and give them a cover story, a secret identity.
          You gotta figure out their secret mission."

          "Claudia definitely had a good time," Tony adds.

          Frankie nods.
          "Interesting.
          I'll have to tuck that away for the next time we have a field trip and have to keep twenty eight-year-olds occupied."
      #I shrug and let it go. 
        *goto fireworks 
     
    The four of you swap stories and bicker over the best parts of the festival as the last of the light disappears from the sky.    

*else
  "What was your favorite thing today?" Frankie asks you.

  *fake_choice
    #"The peony show," I answer.
      You smile.
      "The peony show."

      Frankie furrows ${f_their} eyebrows.
      "The peony show?"

      You laugh.
      "Yeah, it was much more entertaining when you consider that Sebastian and ${ines} were battling it out.
      Much funnier now that I'm no longer in the middle of it, anyway."

      "That explains it," Frankie says with a laugh.

      "I thought they would eat ${them} alive," Alex interjects.
 
      "Well, they didn't, no thanks to you, I might add!"

      Alex sticks ${a_their} tongue out at you.

      Turning to Frankie, you add, "$!{a_they} left me to defend myself."

      "All's fair in love and war," ${a_they} counters.
    *if (yr1_07_19_20_4 = true)
      #"The Ferris wheel," I answer.
        "The Ferris wheel," you answer.

        *if (yr1_07_19_20_3 = true)
          "Really?" Frankie asks.
          "I wouldn't have guessed that."

          You laugh sheepishly.
          "I'm not a fan of height, but it had good company."
          Alex smiles at you, and you smile
          *if (a_feelings = true)
            through the stab of pain in your heart.
          *else
            back.
        *else
          Frankie glances at Alex with a smile.
          "Mine too, good company."

          You nod in agreement,
          *if (a_feelings = true)
            smiling through a surge of envy.
          *else
            a smile at your lips.
          "And great views," you add.
    *if (yr1_07_19_20_5 = true)
      #"The pie eating contest," I answer.
        "The pie eating contest," you say with a grin.
        *if (yr1_07_19_20_5_1 = 1)
          "Even though I didn't compete.
          It was entertainment enough to watch Charlie."

          "I bet," Frankie agrees.
          "She's an absolute mess.
          She's like a vacuum, but she only manages to get half of it into her mouth."

          Alex elbows ${f_them} in the side.
          "Be nice to your sister."

          You smile.
          "There may have been a stray berry or two." 

          Frankie gestures at you.
          "See?
          Even ${name} thinks she's a mess."

          "That's not what ${they} said."         
        *elseif (yr1_07_19_20_5_1 = 2)
          "Even though I didn't win."

          "Hey," Frankie says, "if you got to eat pie, then I think you won by default."

          You laugh.
          "Yeah, maybe you're right.
          Besides, Charlie took second place, so we can make her take us to [i]Sugar & Spice[/i]."

          "She didn't tell me that!" Frankie howls in outrage.
          "If she thinks she can pull the wool over my eyes on this, she is sorely mistaken."
          
          You laugh.
          "You didn't hear it from me."
        *else
          "Especially since I won!"

          "I'm surprised you beat my sister," Frankie says.
          "God knows she's an expert pie eater."

          "She seems to come out alright," you comment, motioning over to Charlie in the water.

          Frankie nods.
          "Wanna make place a wager?"

          "Frankie!" Alex chides.
 
          "What?"
 
          "How could you suggest betting on your sister's crush?"

          $!{f_they} only shrugs, and you laugh.
    #"The carousel," I answer.
      "The carousel," you answer.
      
      "I've always thought carousels boring," Frankie says.

      Alex elbows ${f_them} in the side.
      "Rude!"

      "What?
      It's just the truth.
      They're slow."

      $!{a_they} shrugs.
      "Everybody likes different things."

      "I didn't say ${name} was [i]wrong[/i], exactly."

      "Well I like them," you interrupt.
      "They remind me of being a kid."

      "Me too," Alex says, effectively muzzling Frankie.

  The three of you continue to talk about the best parts of the festival as the last of the light disappears from the sky.
 
*label fireworks
*page_break
 
Down by the lake, 
*if (yr1_07_19_20_6 != 1)
  Bertie,
Charlie and Judy wade into shallow water at the edge, 
*if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 5)
  Claudia between
  *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 != 1)
    the two women,
  *else
    them,
  holding onto their hands as they swing her up and down.
*else
  and their laughter
  *if (yr1_07_19_20_7_1 = true)
    cuts through the tension that hangs in the air.
  *else
    brightens the mood of the whole group.  

On the opposite side of the water, people line the bank, packed in like sardines, as they wait for the show to begin.
The live band that you passed earlier provides a backdrop of music, muffled enough by the distance to allow conversation.

The first firework shoots up like a flare before bursting into an explosion of glittery color.
It hisses as the sparks fall to the Earth, and a round of applause and cheers erupts from the spectators on the opposite side of the lake.

*if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 5)
  Claudia scrambles out of the water and sprints over to you and Tony.
  She sits, back pressed against Tony's chest, to watch the show.

  "Thanks again," Tony says, ${t_their} chin resting against the top of Claudia's head, "for inviting us.
  This is definitely more comfortable than anything we could have come up with on our own."

  You smile and wave off ${t_their} thanks.
  "The more the merrier."

Charlie and Judy stay at the edge of the water, feet dangling in the air as they sit perched on the bank.
*if (yr1_07_19_20_6 != 1)
  Bertie climbs into the crook of a nearby tree.
Hoping for a closer look,
*if (per >= 60)
  or perhaps more privacy,
Alex and Frankie get up too, moving to a large rock jutting out of the water near the shore.
That leaves you
*if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 5)
  with Tony and Claudia.
*elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 7)
  with ${part}.
*else
  alone.

There's a pause before another explosion wracks the sky.
Then the pace increases, spurts of two, three, and four fill the sky with color.
Pops of Red, blue, green, gold, white.

*if ((yr1_07_19_20_6_1 = true) and (yr1_07_19_20_7 = true))
  *fake_choice
    #I scoot forward for a better look.
    #I get up and pull ${part} to ${p_their} feet. ♥
      *set bol +1
      *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 1)
        *set yr1_07_19_20_8 true
        *set b_rom +1
      *elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 2)
        *set yr1_07_19_20_9 true
        *set g_rom +1
      *elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 3)
        *set yr1_07_19_20_10 true
        *set r_rom +1
      *elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 4)
        *set yr1_07_19_20_11 true
        *set t_rom +1
      *else
        *bug
      You stand up and grab ${part}'s hand, tugging at ${p_them} to get up.
      ${p_they} lumbers to ${p_their} feet, and you lead ${p_them}
    #${part} gets up and pulls me to my feet. ♥
      *set shy +1
      *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 1)
        *set yr1_07_19_20_8 true
        *set b_rom +1
      *elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 2)
        *set yr1_07_19_20_9 true
        *set g_rom +1
      *elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 3)
        *set yr1_07_19_20_10 true
        *set r_rom +1
      *elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 4)
        *set yr1_07_19_20_11 true
        *set t_rom +1
      *else
        *bug
      ${part} stands up and reaches ${p_their} hand out to you.
      You take it, and ${p_they} helps you to your feet.
      $!{p_they} leads you 
*elseif (yr1_07_19_20_7_1 = false)
  *fake_choice
    #I continue to watch the show.
    *if (b_rom > 2)
      #I go find Bertie. ♥
        *set yr1_07_19_20_8 true
        *set yr1_07_19_20_8_1 true
        *set bol +1
        *set b_rom +1
      #Bertie beckons me closer. ♥
        *set yr1_07_19_20_8 true
        *set yr1_07_19_20_8_1 true
        *set shy +1
        *set b_rom +1
  *if (yr1_07_19_20_8 = true)
    You wander down to the edge of the water and find Bertie sitting in ${b_their} tree.

    "Hey there, stranger," ${b_they} says to you with a slight smile.

    *if (style = 1)
      You smile back.
    *else
      "Hi," you say.

    $!{b_they} slides out of the tree, and the two of you wander
*elseif (yr1_07_19_20_7 = true)
  "Shall we get a closer look?" ${part} asks you.
  *fake_choice
    #I agree.
      "Sure," you agree, and the 
      *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 5)
        three
      *else
        two
      of you wander down to the edge of the water.

      *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 5)
        Tony hoists Claudia onto ${t_their} shoulders,
      *else
        You find the trunk of a thick, old tree to settle onto, 
      and you look upward toward the heavens.
    #I decline.
*else
  You rearrange the quilt, smoothing out its rumples, and drag it a bit closer to the water.
  Finding a spot beyond the canopy of leaves, you lie down, flat on your back, to watch the show.
  *page_break
*if ((((yr1_07_19_20_8 = true) or (yr1_07_19_20_9 = true)) or (yr1_07_19_20_10 = true)) or (yr1_07_19_20_11 = true))
  to a spot at the edge of the water.
  A large tree leans out over the bank and hides you from the not-so-prying eyes of your friends.
  *if (yr1_07_19_20_8 = true)
    You and Bertie settle onto a fallen tree trunk and turn to watch the show.

The fireworks explode in bursts of light that illuminate the dark blue sky, leaving in their wake faint trails of smoke that disappear in the darkness.
The large ones, the ones that race so high into the sky that your eyes can hardly follow them, cease.
In their stead, a barrage of shorter rockets shoot into the sky with a scream.
They crackle and hiss and pop.

*gosub_scene mechanics_setup flirt_style
*if (yr1_07_19_20_8 = true)
  You look over at Bertie to find ${b_them} already watching you.
  In the background, the fireworks resume. 
  You see the light out of the corner of your eye, hear the bang, feel the boom.
  But your eyes remain locked with ${b_theirs}.

  *fake_choice
    #I look back at the fireworks.
      *set yr1_07_19_20_8_2 1
    #I kiss ${b_them}. ♥
      *set yr1_07_19_20_8_2 2
      *set bol +1
      *set b_rom +1
      You step closer and reach out to ${b_them}.
      $!{b_they} closes the distance, like a magnet finding its complement.
    #$!{b_they} kisses me. ♥
      *set yr1_07_19_20_8_2 3
      *set shy +1
      *set b_rom +1
      $!{b_they} reaches out to you, and ${b_their} hand comes to a rest on your neck.
      You tilt your head and close your eyes.
  *if ((yr1_07_19_20_8_2 = 2) or (yr1_07_19_20_8_2 = 3))
    Your lips meet, slowly, hesitantly.

    Bertie's fingers steady the back of your head, and ${b_they} pulls you in.
    $!{b_they} finds your waist with ${b_their} free hand, and you rest yours on top.

    When ${b_they} pulls away, resting ${b_their} forehead against yours, ${b_they} whispers, "That was nice."
    *if (style = 1)
      "[i]Just[/i] nice?" you tease.

      "[i]Very[/i] nice."

      You laugh.
    *else
      You rest your head against ${b_their} shoulder.

    Bertie kisses your temple and
    *if (((b_gender = "f") and (height <= 64)) or ((b_gender = "m") and (height <= 69)))
      pulls you into ${b_their} lap, wrapping ${b_their} arms around your waist and resting ${b_their} chin on the top of your head.
      You rest your arms on top of ${b_theirs} and lean back into ${b_them}
    *else
      leans slightly against you.
      $!{b_their} hand creeps into your own, and ${b_they} rests ${b_their} head against your shoulder
    before you both turn back to watch the fireworks.
    *page_break
  
*if (yr1_07_19_20_9 = true)
  Your eyes are glued to the scene in front of you.
  You watch the reflections of light on the lake, the way the gentle waves distort the shape.
  The two of you settle onto the sturdy trunk of a tree that had the good sense to fall near the shore.

  ${gabby}'s thigh presses against your own, and you can feel ${g_their} heat seep into your skin.
  You glance toward ${g_them}, and ${g_they} shifts in ${g_their} seat.
  But if anything, ${g_they}'s shifted closer, not farther away.
  $!{g_their} knee bumps yours.

*if (yr1_07_19_20_10 = true)
  *if (yr1_06_14_20_2_3_2 = true)
    ${rash} pulls you out of your concentration, quite literally.
    $!{r_they} wraps a hand around your waist and pulls you toward ${r_them}self.
    You stumble a step, putting your hand against ${r_their}
    *if (r_gender = "f")
      shoulder.
    *else
      chest.

    *if ((hair = true) and (headscarf = false))
      $!{r_they} brushes ${r_their} hand 
      *if ((hair_texture = "wavy") or (hair_texture = "straight"))
        through
      *else
        over
      your hair
    *else
      $!{r_they} traces a finger along the length of your jaw
    and leans in to kiss you.
  *else
    You look over at ${rash}, and ${r_they} raises an eyebrow at you, taking a step closer.
    *if ((hair = true) and (headscarf = false))
      $!{r_they} reaches out and fingers a lock of your hair before dropping it and moving ${r_their} hand to your neck.
    *else
      $!{r_they} runs a thumb across your jaw, ${r_their} fingers pulling you closer.

  *fake_choice
    #Step away.
      *set yr1_07_19_20_10_1 1
      You take an immediate step backwards.

      ${rash} blinks and shakes ${r_their} head
      $!{r_they} stretches ${r_their} arm backwards to rub the back of ${r_their} neck.
      $!{r_their} mouth raises into a crooked half-smile.
      "I'll take that as a no," ${r_they} says slowly.

      You don't know what to say, so you don't say anything.
 
      ${rash} nods.
      "I think I'm going to head out."

      You step forward, not sure what you're going to do, but he waves you off, turning around, a striding out with a purpose.
      "Thanks for the—"
      If ${r_they} finishes ${r_their} sentence, you don't hear it.

      You sink down onto the trunk of a nearby tree.
      *page_break
    #Kiss ${r_them}. ♥
      *set yr1_07_19_20_10_1 2 
      *set r_rom +1
      You lean in and kiss ${r_them}.
      $!{r_they} continues to caress your jaw with one hand, and ${r_their} free hand explores farther south, coming to a stop at your butt.
      
      You hand clutches at ${r_their} neck, nails digging into ${r_their} skin.
      It elicits a sigh, and ${r_they} squeezes the top of your thigh.

      When your lips part for a second to take a breath, ${r_their} tongue slides into your mouth.
      Then ${r_they} sucks at your bottom lip before moving ${r_their} attention to your jaw.

      You grab at ${r_their} shirt and steady yourself.

      "Quite the fireworks," ${r_they} murmurs in your ear, and right on cue the show begins again.

      *if (style = 1)
        You kiss ${r_them} again before turning to watch the show.
      *else
        You bury your face in ${r_their} chest.

        *if (style = 2)
          *if (yr1_06_14_20_2_3_2_1 = 2)
            "You can't run away from me this time, ${nickname}."
          *else
            "Come on, ${nickname}," ${r_they} chides, "you'll miss the show."

        ${rash} leads you over to the trunk of a fallen tree and sits down with ${r_their} back against it.
        $!{r_they} pats ${r_their} thigh in invitation, and you
        *if (style = 2)
          scoff, taking a seat next to him on the ground.
          When ${r_they} takes your hand instead, you don't protest.
        *else
          curl up in front of him, leaning back against him.
  *page_break
*if (yr1_07_19_20_11 = true)
  *if (style = 1)
    You sit down and lean back against the trunk of a fallen tree.
    Pulling at ${t_their} hand, Tony obeys and slides onto the ground between your legs.

    You weave your hand under ${t_their} arm and bring it to a rest at ${t_their} throat.
    Your fingers trace the outline of ${t_their} clavicle and fingering the collar of ${t_their} shirt.
  
    $!{t_they} tangles ${t_their} legs with your own and rests ${t_their} hand on your knee.
  *else
    Tony sits down and leans back against the trunk of a fallen tree ${t_their} legs outstretched.
    $!{t_they} nods to the space in front of them, and you accept the invitation.
    
    With your back pressed against ${t_their} chest, Tony threads ${t_their} arms under yours, resting one of ${t_their} hands on your thigh.
    $!{t_they} nuzzles ${t_their} face against your neck, and you break out in goosebumps where 
    *if (headscarf = false)
      ${t_their} breath tickles your skin.
    *else
      ${t_they} touches you.

*if (yr1_07_19_20_8 = false)
  *page_break
  When the larger fireworks resume, their explosions boom across the lake.
  A curtain of shimmering gold cascades through the sky with a hiss, rockets exploding in fiery circles all around it.
  The booms reverberate through the air and against your chest like god himself is performing chest compressions on you.

The pattern repeats: loud bursts of fireworks spiraling into the sky, followed by mesmerizing transitions closer to the ground.
Every time you think it's over, another round of pops assails the skies.

Then, instead of bursts of three and four, the whole sky lights up.
The booms are too many to count.
Every burst of light is followed by another that's bigger, brighter, louder.
It's like the beat of your heart.

The colors mix together to create teals, purples, oranges.
The finale, for it can't  be anything but, is a series of crackling booms that sound like a roll of firecrackers going off so dense and numerous are their pops.
The last burst of light blankets the sky in gold before the willowy sparks disappear into the blackness of night.

*page_break

With the show over, the street lamps that normally illuminate Talverton in a soft glow light up again.
The dim lights reflect against the smoke that fills the sky, turning the midnight blue into a lavender gray.
The silence feels strange in your ears until the band on the other side of the water starts up again.

Charlie and Judy are the first ones to regroup with you.

*if (yr1_07_19_20_7_1 = false)
  "That was amazing!" Charlie says.
  "I haven't been this close to the fireworks since mom and dad took us when we were kids."

  "Me too," Judy agrees with a smile.
  "Thanks for inviting us."
*else
  "Thanks for inviting us," she says in a weary tone

Alex, approaching with Frankie, responds, "We're glad you could come."
Glancing back at Frankie, ${a_they} adds,
*if (a >= 8)  
  "We'll have to make this a yearly tradition."
*else
  "Everything is better with friends."

  *if (yr1_07_19_20_7_1 = false)
    "I'm down for that," Frankie says.

*if (yr1_07_19_20_7_1 = true)
  *if (per >= 62)
    *if (a >= 8)
      "Fat chance of that,"
    *else
      "Yeah, [i]friends[/i],"
    Charlie mutters under her breath.
  *else
    Charlie mumbles something under her breath 
  before her older ${b_sib} casts her an admonishing glare.

*if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 5)
  "I think we're going to have to head out," Tony says with a nod to Claudia, who is yawning and rubbing at her eyes.
  "Thanks again for having us, ${name}."

  "It really was our pleasure," you say.
  *if (a >= 8)
    "Alex is right—we've got a new tradition on our hands."

As the
*if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 5)
  rest
*elseif (yr1_07_19_20_10_1 = 1)
  six
*else
  seven
of you set to packing up, you start on the quilt.
*if (yr1_07_19_20_8_1 = true)
  It's not long before Bertie sidles up to you.
  *goto help
*elseif ((yr1_07_19_20_6_1 = true) and (yr1_07_19_20_7 = true))
  *if (yr1_07_19_20_10_1 != 1)
    It's not long before ${part} sidles up to you.

  *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 1) 
    *label help     
    *if ((yr1_07_19_20_8_2 = 2) or (yr1_07_19_20_8_2 = 3))
      "I hope that we
      *if (a >= 8)
        can make more than one thing into a tradition," 
      *else
        will have will have many returns,"
      ${b_they} says with a sly smile.

      You
      *if (style = 3)
        blush and
      smile back.
    *else
      "I had a really good time tonight," ${b_they} says.

      "Me too," you agree with a light smile.
    *if (yr1_07_19_20_8_1 = true)
      *goto end
  *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 2)
    "Thank you for inviting me," ${g_they} says stiffly.

    *if (style = 1)
      "It was no sacrifice on my part," you tease.
    *elseif (style = 2)
      You nod and shrug.
      "I'm glad you liked it."
    *else
      You look down at your feet.
      "I'm glad you could come."
  *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 3)
    *if (yr1_07_19_20_10_1 = 1)
      As the two other couples pair off again, you can't help but linger over the kiss that didn't happen.
      You wonder what will happen next.
      In the meantime, you have a quilt to fold.
    *else
      "You sure you want to put the quilt away," ${rash} asks with a raised eyebrow.

      "Are you propositioning me?" you retort.

      ${rash} shrugs.
      "Is watter wet?"

      *if (style = 1)
        You laugh.
      *elseif (style = 2)
        You scowl.
      *else
        You blush.
      "My best friend is right over there."
      Not to mention the five other people.

      ${rash} leans closer.
      "Invite ${a_them}."

      *if (style != 3)
        *if (style = 1)
          You poke ${r_them} in the ribs.
        *else
          You cross your arms and scoff.
        "You gonna help or not?"
      *else 
        You fidget with your ${tic}.
        "Ar-are you gonna help?" you stammer, thrusting one end of the quilt into ${r_their} hands.

      ${rash} laughs softly.
  *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 4)
    *if (yr1_06_11_20_1 = 2)
      "You still owe me a lunch," Tony reminds you.
    *else
      "We need to go to lunch sometime," Tony says.
 
    *if (style = 1)
      "Name the time and place," you counter with a smile.

      $!{t_they} mirrors your smile.
      "Maybe I will."
    *else
      You smile shyly.
      
      "Shall I take that as a yes?" ${t_they} teases.

      "Maybe," you retort.

      "Then I will."
        
  Together, the two of you fold the quilt, matching corners and straightening edges.
  When you make the last fold, coming together for the last time, 
  *if (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 1)
    Bertie kisses your temple.
  *elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 2)
    ${gabby} stands there, eyes locked with yours, until the sound of approaching footsteps distracts ${g_them}.
  *elseif (yr1_07_19_20_6 = 3)
    ${rash} leans in and kisses you just below your ear.
  *else
    *if ((hair = true) and (headscarf = false))
      Tony brushes a hand
      *if ((hair_texture = "wavy") or (hair_texture = "straight"))
        through
      *else
        over
      your hair.
    *else
      Tony clasps your hand in ${t_theirs}.
*elseif ((((yr1_07_19_20_6_1 = false) and (yr1_07_19_20_8_1 = false)) and (yr1_07_19_20_6 != 5)) and (yr1_07_19_20_7 = true))
  ${part} helps you shake it off, and the two of you fit the corners together, folding it into neat halves.
*else
  *if (a_feelings = true)
    Alone in the dark, you glance over at Alex, laughing at something Frankie has said as they tidy up.
    A prick of jealousy tears through you, and you frown at the self-satisfied grin on ${f_their} face.

  Your arms are too short to join the corners of the quilt together neatly, so you satisfy yourself with lumpy and uneven folds.
    

*label end
When the others return, bringing with them all manner of leftover snacks and games, you give the place one last look and set out.

*if (num > 0)
  *achieve rose

*finish