I'm back with a new chapter! Not as long compared to the two from last week, but it's a more light-hearted one for sure. Hope you enjoy! Shoutout to KuriyanBBQ for beta reading and giving detailed feedback. Other people that read this before the full version released were my friends Meep and FrostyHawk.

As usually, review highlights will be at the bottom.

The sun was setting over the town of Echo Creek, signifying the end of a long day. That wasn't the case for two people, however, as Marco walked out of a blue vortex carrying Star in his arms. Looking around, Marco noticed they were in Star's room. Placing Star down gently on his bed, he worriedly rubbed his neck. "So…some dinner, am I right?" Laughing to relieve the tension did not work. Star just sat upright, looking down at her lap.

"Can't believe her…" Star punched the bed harshly, making the fabric slightly bounce. "Really thought Mom cared about me somewhat. But tonight proved she doesn't." Folding her arms, Star's face grew a dark frown. "Maybe she knew Saint O's would do those things or maybe even had an idea about Tom's plans…"

"I have to stop you there Star," Marco responded, sitting down next to her. "Your Mom's a real piece of work. That much I get. But what mother would willingly let those things happen to their daughter?" Star gave a bitter laugh, looking away from Marco.

"You don't know her." She curled up in a ball. "You don't." The room grew silent, only the simple fall breeze gusting through. Star lightly sobbed, letting her inner emotions come out. "At least… I was able to fight back before."

"Fight back? You destroyed her Star!" Marco said with a large grin, causing Star to raise an eyebrow. He gave a 'are you serious now' look. "You told your Mom off on her playing field. Not through fighting or killing her." Marco took Star's hand, giving it a firm squeeze as he continued speaking. "You used something you suffered through as a weapon. Be proud of yourself."

Star felt Marco's words strike her heart, charging it with some positive emotions. Her cheek marks glowing, Star gave a small smile. "Thanks for that. Really needed the pick-me-up there." Marco waved his hand and stood up.

"One thing that confuses me though…" He rubbed his chin, deep in thought. "Why would she ruin things with all those people?" Star folded her arms, wondering where Marco was going with this. "What? I mean… Those are like, the rulers of Mewni, correct?"

Star stood up, having a focused expression. "Mewni is composed of various kingdoms. The Waterfolk, Pigeon, Cloud, Dolphin…" Marco raised his finger at the last one. "Don't bother, I'm confused by that too. They are super smart though." He dropped it, sitting back down. "Then there is the Monster and Underworld Kingdoms." Star started pacing, arms behind her back. "The monster kingdom is a good ally to Mewni, though they have a 'history' of being bad people." She scoffed, growing a disgusted look. "Monsters have always been nice to me, so I don't get that claim."

"And we can say the Underworld is something else," Marco mumbled, eyes glued to the ground. "Though I think Pete comes from that place." Star looked at Marco, having a somber smile. "Oh, a sour subject I'm…"

"No, a friend of mine comes from there too." She sat down next to Marco, eyes slightly glassy. "That dude really helped me at one point…" Marco patted her shoulder, giving a bright grin. "Yeah, not all demons are Tom's. I think…"

"I figure such." Marco shook his head before getting up. "Earth is kinda messed up, giving people labels and all that. Shame Mewni's like that too." Star nodded in agreement, both letting the silence linger in the room. The two looked at each other as if expecting someone to say something.

"Want to go out on a date?" Star and Marco asked in unison, covering their mouths in shock. Soon, they just laughed in amusement. Rubbing his chin in thought, Marco took out his phone, eyes shining for a brief moment.

Star leaned on Marco's shoulder, poking his cheek. "Picked out a place?" Marco nodded, tapping some buttons on his smartphone. It showed an Italian restaurant, having a mustached man as its logo. "That guy looks funny."

Marco snickered at the comment, closing his phone off. "Echo Creek has this amazing diner, having all kinds of great food and service. I would like to take you there, hoping to get our minds off everything." Marco held out his hand. "Want to join me?"

Star took his hand, letting a small blush grace her face. "Sounds great! Now, shew! Give me some time to get ready." Marco bowed mockingly, both teens snickering stupidly at each other. Watching Marco leave the room, a content expression graced Star's face. "That dork… Knows just what to say."

River jumped out of a portal, landing a few feet away from the Diaz Household. Frowning harshly, he rubbed his tired forehead. "Tonight could have gotten a lot better if Moon were just to make it a private dinner." Touching his now crown-less head, a dark feeling spread through his nerves. "No, I must do this, for Star. To be…"

"A real father?" Glossaryck comments, floating on the spellbook, seemingly coming out of a portal of his own. "We both failed River. Now, we do the right thing." His voice was monotone as if hiding anger of his own. "Funny how we try to be blind to the reality, hoping our visions aren't true. Don't you agree, River?"

River looked into his eyes, not saying anything else. They knocked on the door, seeing Mr. Diaz smile warmly at the duo. "Hello! How was your visit with Star's mother?" River gave a strained smile, something Mr. Diaz picked up on right away. Helping them inside, the trio sat down in the kitchen, letting soundlessness calm everyone down. "I'm sorry, didn't realize…"

"It's fine. I'm not going to just be a guest here any longer." River gave a proud grin toward Mr. Diaz, holding out his hand. "I will start paying rent for my room soon." Blinking a few times, Mr. Diaz just grabbed River's hand and shook it. Glossaryck studied the scene, rubbing his long beard.

"Not that I disagree, but you think leaving Mewni to only Moon is a wise choice?" Glossaryck asks. River raises an eyebrow, laughing darkly. "Taking after your daughter for sure, my liege." He summoned a pudding cup, eating it slowly. Hovering toward Mr. Diaz, he bowed respectfully. "Hey, didn't meet you yet human. I'm going to train those two kids magic. It's my job, so hope you understand."

Mr. Diaz awkwardly laughed, rubbing his neck. "Sure… Blue magic man." The trio slowly started chatting away, letting out some personal stress from the long day.

Marco paced around in his room, hearing endless dialing on his phone. "Come on… Pick up you jerks…" It finally rang, making Marco tightly clench the phone. "Is this The Juniper Brothers? I tried calling for a while… I know it's late but I really need a table."

The man at the other end was silent as if annoyed from getting a call so late. "Some boyfriend, getting their date's table ordered late." Marco was about to shout in annoyance before he was cut off. "Kid, its fine. Lucky, you aren't the only late call. One table is open, so take your lucky lady down by… 9 PM sharp. Come late, the table's gone."

"Thank you…" Marco said with a relieved sigh. "Place it under 'Star Butterfly & Marco Diaz' please." The call ended, with Marco sitting on the bed. "I can't go like this…" He tugged on his dress clothes. "Dirty from before and Star's likely dressing casual too." Noticing his closet door open, he walked toward it. Pulling out a neatly pressed red-hooded vest and black jeans, he smirked proudly to himself. "I got just the thing."

Meanwhile, Star was using the wand to put on some clothes. Now wearing her pink-long sleeve shirt and black skirt, she neatly fixed her hair into an over-the-shoulder style. Brushing it gently, she let the brushes soothing touch calm down jumpy nerves. "It's only your first date with Marco…" A small frown graced her face, placing the brush down. "You dated before… But he's not like that." Resuming her brushing, she stood up ready. Putting on white boots, she left her room, slowly walking toward Marco's. Gently knocking on the door, she noticed it was open. Letting a small grin grow, she lightly pushed the door. "Hey Maaaaaarco. You ready?"

Marco jumped into the air like a scared cat, nearly falling over himself. Star went into a laughing fit, unaware of the annoyed expression on Marco's face. "Geez…. Nearly gave me a heart attack." Fixing himself up, he took in Star's appearance. "You look great."

Star blushed, throwing her arm around Marco's shoulders. "Well, want to look nice for our first date." She lightly poked Marco's chest, having a sly grin. "You look really sharp." Marco gave a small smile, trying to hide his red face.

"I got our table ready, so we just have to head out." Marco walked toward his closet, taking out two helmets. "It's quite the walk, so we are taking my bike." Star caught the pink helmet, noticing butterfly and ladybug stickers covering it. "Before you ask, it was… Jessica's. I don't have any others."

Star gently brushed her fingers over it, sensing hefty weight coating the object. "Wow… You trust me with…" Marco waved at the incoming question, fixing on his blue helmet. Star only smiled, putting hers on as well. The duo walked downstairs, noticing three people in the kitchen. "Dad? I thought you were going to stay on Mewni?"

River turned around, giving Star a warm grin. "Well pumpkin, let's just say Daddy is going to stay on Earth for a while longer. You have fun with Marco." He gave a proud nod toward Marco, who smiled too.

"I will treat your daughter well, Mr. Butterfly." Marco bowed in respect, not noticing Star's raised eyebrow. Before she could ask anything, Marco took her hand and they left the house. Mr. Diaz only sighed, slugging down some of his drink.

"They grow up so fast, don't you agree?" Mr. Diaz mused. River nodded in agreement, relaxing in his chair. Glossaryck rubbed his beard, hovering in the air. "Where are you going?"

"Someone has to keep an eye on those two." He warped away, leaving Mr. Diaz and River slightly confused. They shrugged it off, resuming their discussion from before.

Marco was slowly kicking peddles of his black bike, feeling the shaky body of Star hugging him. Leaning forward, he slowed his movement. "Star, I got you, stop being so nervous." She huffed in slight annoyance, resting her head on Marco's shoulder.

"I'm not nervous! Just… Never rode a bike before." She looked beneath her, seeing the ground seemingly blurred. "You… Might be going too fast, Marco." He slowly stopped the bike, helping Star off. "I never said to…"

"You were scared, and that's fine." Marco put a hand on one handle, starting his walk. "We can walk rest of the way there. Come on." Star gave a joyful smile, walking alongside him. "Did you ever ride fast things on Mewni?"

"Not really," Star answered back, letting out a small laugh. "Rode an invisible goat and a few warnicorns in the past. I never saw the ground when riding them, making me feel such a rush!" She excitedly flung her hands into the sky. "I guess Saint O's really did a number on me."

Marco placed his arm around Star's shoulder. "And what if it did? You are on Earth now. Nothing and I repeat nothing will hurt you here." Growing a sly grin, Star folded her arms. "What?"

"You sound so confident, Diaz. That feels nice." Star let her arms drop, taking Marco's open hand. Giving a firm squeeze, she looked ahead. Marco felt the intense warmth, saying nothing, only gently tightening his hold on Star's hand. The duo walked the soon night-coated streets of Echo Creek's shopping center, seeing various stores. Marco stopped walking, seeing his Karate Dojo a few feet away. The building was very simple, being styled in a small brown-building. Alone painted sign saying Body, Mind, So_l was present, making Marco snicker to himself.

"What's so funny?" Star asked, noticing Marco not moving. He pointed toward the building, with Star squinting her eyes to make something out. "Just a rundown building…"

"It's where I learned to get strong," Marco answered, having a nostalgic smile grow on his face. "Remember when I first told you about Jessica? We both came here train." Marco walked closer to the building, gently rubbing his finger over the painted sign. "Always found it funny how Soul got messed up."

Star followed Marco, gently placing his bike down. "So it's about teaching you about the sun?" Marco raised his eyebrow, earning a playful snicker from Star. "I know ma vocab, thank you very much. And considering my name comes from that fireball above us, I know the sayings for the sun."

"Huh…" Marco rubbed his chin. "My parents were going to name me that I think…" Star laughed loudly, slapping her knees. "It's not that funny Star… Just a name."

"Our names would literally mean the same thing," Star said in-between laughs. Marco blinked a few times before going 'Oh'. He snickered slightly as he picked up the bike. "I'm good at jokes."

"Okay Mrs. Jokester, any more zingers?" Marco teased, walking away from the building. Star took out her wand, biting it gently. "You are… Really going to eat that?"

Star noticed the wand in her hand, putting away gently. "Nervous habit. And no, I don't have a zinger. Whatever that means." Marco rolled his eyes and the duo continued walking past some shops. Not even walking a few feet, Star stopped in front of a clothing store, mouthwatering at designs on display. "I. Want. That. Now!"

"Store's closed Star." He lifted the sign gently, earning a pout from her. "I promise, we can visit it after school tomorrow." Slouching her shoulders, she dragged her feet.

"Fiiiiine. But you promised. If we don't go…" Marco waved his hand, putting a hand behind his head.

"You will turn me into a toad or something, I know." Star felt her eye twitch before a pleased smile spread across her face. Marco started walking at a faster pace, pointing toward their destination. "We made it. Welcome to The Juniper Brothers! Odd name for a diner…"

Star felt her a loud noise coming from her stomach. "Uh… Can we go in now? I'm starving. Wish I had some of that special Multi-bear pork…" Marco raised his finger in confusion. "You were going to eat it too before Mom ruined that experience, so don't question things." Marco dropped his finger, shaking his head amused. Taking out a lock from his pocket, he parked the bike in place. After locking it in place, he stood up, taking Star's hand gently.

"Ready for our first date? I'm… Kinda nervous." Marco admitted, laughing sheepishly. Star kissed his cheek, feeling her face heat up.

"Don't be! We are going to have fun and stuff." She dragged him into the diner, both nearly stumbling through the door. A tall man dressed in a waiter's uniform stands before them, raising his thick eyebrow. "Hello sir, I'm here with my date. Table for Diaz and Butterfly?" He only walked ahead, inviting Star and Marco to follow him. Being guided to the table, Star took in the restaurant appearance. Neatly furnished woodwork shined oddly bright, tables spacious but not massive in size and various couples of all kinds chatting away. The man led the couple seating them in the center, the table is covered with a white sheet and a lone candle being lit.

"Please be ready to take your orders when I return." Star bowed toward the man, causing him to shake his head in confusion. "Thank you, Miss." Walking away, Marco pulled out a seat for Star. She sat down gracefully as Marco pushed her in.

"You don't have to act properly; this is a fun date," Marco said casually, now sitting down. "Be yourself, okay?" Star folded her arms, having a blank expression.

"I am myself. Just… Trying to be respectful, you know?" Star picked up her glass, noticing it filled with water. "Huh… So just like on Mewni." She took a slug of it before wiping her mouth. "That was nice…"

"So dinner manners on Mewni, mirrors how they work on Earth?" Marco leaned forward as Star placed a napkin on her skirt. "Oh… Forgot to do that too." He mirrored Star, showing a toothy smile. "I can have manners too."

Star giggled, covering her mouth. "I know you can silly. I'm just doing what I grew up with." She took Marco's hand, giving it a light kiss. "I'm fine, it's allll good." Marco noticed her arms were not gloved, feeling the softness of her pale skin.

"You aren't wearing gloves…" Marco said softly. Star looked at her arms, not seeing flashes. Sighing in relief, she rested her arms on the table.

"Well… For the longest time, I always saw…" She looked around the room for a moment before locking her vision on Marco. "Chains. Cuffs. Messed up stuff when my arms aren't covered. Today though… It's like I don't see that anymore."

"I'm proud of you, trying to get better." Star smiled warmly, rubbing her arms. The touch soothed her, as if a part of her was missing this whole time, but returned. They looked at one another lovingly before hearing some coughing. Marco snapped his neck to the left, seeing a waiter. "Sorry, we aren't ready to order yet." The waiter nodded, walking off slightly annoyed. "Guy can't wait a minute, huh?"

"You're telling me; we just got here…" Star commented, soon picking up the menu. "There's this… Chicken sandwich? Spaghetti & Meatballs? Ziti? I never heard of any of these…" Marco put down his own menu, looking at Star joyfully.

"I think the chicken sandwich might be good. We were going to eat some meat thingy on Mewni before. Also… Do you have a sweet tooth?" Marco flipped over to the dessert page, showing various cakes and sweets. "Best part of any fancy meal."

Star studied the images, feeling her mouth water. "Ooooooohhhhh! We have the ice cream sundae!" She nearly shouted, shoving the menu back to Marco. He laughed in response, putting it down.

"Okay! Sounds like we picked out our foods for the night." The couple smirked toward each other, waving to get the waiter. He returned, seeing Marco and Star smiling widely. Taking their orders, he walked off, never taking an eye off them. Letting a smile grace his lips, he walked into the kitchen.

Oskar was sitting in his run-down car, trying to get it working. "Come ON! I literally just put you back together." He pounded the steering wheel, letting a loud horn echo across the night skies. "Damn it…" Getting out of the car, he covered his ears at the broken horn. "How the hell can…" Smoke came out of the car, making him sigh in defat. "Fine, you win. I will walk to pick Jackie up." Kicking the car door shut, he mumbled curses under his breath.

The walk wasn't very long, but it felt as such to Oskar. Throwing on a blue vest, plain white dress shirt, and basic black pants; he was ready. Taking out his broken-up smartphone, he looked through its shattered reflection. His bright eyes were slightly dull, hair continuing to cover one of them. Putting the phone away, he slouched every step he walked.

Stopping a few blocks away from the Thomas Household, he frowned harshly. "I… I don't know. Everything I do keeps going wrong." He ruffled his hair, laughing to himself. "Gotta get Marco to look at my applications. Need to get into a good school." Making nervous steps forward, he got toward Jackie's door. Lightly knocking, it opened up, revealing Mr. Thomas. "Hello, sir! I was just…"

"I know why you're here. JACKIE!" He shouted, making Oskar shake. "Listen, kid, I know you mean well, but…"

"She can do better, I know." Jackie got down the stairs, Oskar and her father unaware. "You say that every time I pick her up. Look, can I please…" Jackie pushed her father away, glaring at him harshly. "Hey, Jackie! You look great!"

Jackie fixed her light sea-colored skirt and black top, having a seductive smile. "Thanks. Now Dad, you know I love him, right?" Mr. Thomas raised his eyebrow, making Jackie huff in anger. "Seriously! I do. Let me be happy."

"You were happy with that Marco kid." He walked off, leaving the couple alone. Tense silence lingered in the air, both unwilling to look at each other. Oskar sighed, placing a hand on Jackie's shoulder.

"I… I get it. Come on, I'm already late… Stupid car breaking down." He laughed slightly. Jackie smiled, taking his hand and walking out of the house. "We have to walk… Sorry about that."

"Dude, its fine!" Jackie shouted joyfully. "Besides…" Seemingly out of thin air, she took out a skateboard. "Before you ask, I always have it on my back." He looked at Jackie but a kiss on Oskar's lips prevented him. "Skater's secret, don't want it spoiled, now do we?" Oskar only shook his head, flipping his hair back.

"Of course." He hopped on the board with Jackie, the duo skating across the night-covered town in peace. Jackie was dead silent, enjoying the light humming from Oskar's soothing voice. The mere touch from him caused Jackie to shudder slightly, both from the enjoyment and another lingering feeling she didn't want to ponder on. As they got into Echo Creek's busy shopping center, Oskar and Jackie jumped off the board. "It's over there." He pointed to the restaurant, making Jackie cover her mouth in shock. "Always hear how you want to visit a fancy place. So, been saving up for a date. Sick, right?"

"You… You didn't have to do that." Jackie said, trying to mask her tears. "I haven't…" Oskar placed a finger over her lips.

"I'm not Mr. Fancy, but you stuck by me. Want to do right by you… My little mermaid." He kissed her hand, making Jackie giggle girlishly. "Always love that nickname."

"It's my favorite movie, of course, I love it." She tackled into Oskar, giving him a warm hug. He said nothing, hugging her back. "I… I really needed this. Thank you." Rubbing her back softly, he heard the content moans escaping Jackie's mouth.

"Anything for you." They let go, holding each other's hand. Walking toward the restaurant, they get inside. Oskar puffs up his chest, taking a deep breath. 'You got this man, for Jackie. Be a man, not a hobo like her father thinks you are.' Waving hello to a tall man, he smiled earnestly. "Hello, good sir. I am here for a date with my lovely lady here. Table for Greason and Thomas." Leading the way, Jackie and Oskar find their table, but both are in shock. "Sir… There are no other tables, correct?" The man shakes his head, causing Oskar to sigh. Pulling Jackie's seat out, he soon sits. "Jackie… I didn't realize…"

"No, it's fine." She tapped the table, noticing Marco and Star laughing right across from them. "It's good." Oskar studied the water ripple slightly from her glass, gulping in slight fear. She noticed Oskar's worried eyes. 'Damn it, girl! Stop being such a bitch! Oskar did all this for you… For once in your life, appreciate him.' She took his hand, giving it a firm squeeze. "Sorry, that was really jerky of me."

"No, it's all good." Oskar gently put her hand down, lounging back in his seat. "I mean, we both had a feeling the two would go out at some point." Turning around, he smiled with intense pride toward Marco. "The kid needed to move on and damn is he doing so. Rock on Diaz."

Jackie smiled, feeling some relief. "Yeah… I agree." She coughed, getting Oskar's full attention. "So, how's the song coming along?" Oskar sighed, looking at his empty plate in annoyance. "Didn't know it was that bad."

"No, not that. Just… Feels like everything is going wrong." He rested an arm on the table. "Having issues getting my college apps filled out, the gigs after school aren't paying much and…" Oskar shook his head. "I'm fine babe, just got a lot of inspiration to pool from. Hard to pick it apart though."

"Oh, well… I'm here for you, okay Oskar?" Jackie said warmly. Oskar felt his heart melt, her voice sounding angelic in his mind. She looked at the menu, rubbing her chin. "The Chicken Club looks good, what are you ordering?"

"Likely a burger with fries," Oskar said bluntly, feeling his lips water. "Always love a good burger." Jackie snickered, folding hear arms playfully. "Come on, I seen you munch down through like, piles of fries that one time."

"ONLY for a bet I lost against Janna, you jerk." Jackie teased slyly. "They were good chilly fries…" They heard coughing, getting the attention from the waiter. "Oh, we're ready. I would like the Chicken Club with a plain salad."

"And I would like a deluxe burger with extra cheese and fries please." Leaving the couple after taking their order, Oskar turned his attention toward Jackie. "Did you look into my offer? Your voice sounds amazing, so you being our singer would rock."

"You know how dad would feel about that," Jackie said in disappointment. "But maybe I could help you during the talent show coming up. Dad won't be going to that." Oskar frowned, not going unnoticed. "Dad doesn't…"

"He does hate me. And I just don't get why." Oskar threw his hands in the air, getting annoyed. "I did nothing wrong. I treat you right and always show respect toward him. But no, because I left those 'parents' of mine and made my own life, everyone thinks I'm a damn lowlife and failure."

Jackie pounded the table, making Oskar jump. "Did I ever call you that?" Oskar blinked at the question. "Seriously, you are one of the nicest guys I know. Sure, you may not be the brightest tool in the shed, but I know you love me."

"Thanks… Felt nice hearing that." Oskar said earnestly. "I…" He closed his eyes, before nodding to himself. "I wasn't sure about that. Ever since recently, I noticed you… Looking at Marco again."

"Of course I am, he's being friendly." Jackie raised an eyebrow, the air getting colder around them. "I'm not following."

Oskar rubbed his forehead. "Just… Nothing, our food is coming and I want us to have a nice night, okay? Sorry I brought it up." He noticed the water near him, slugging it down in one shot. Jackie's eyes were angry, having a hidden chill behind them. "We can drop this. I'm sorry about…"

"No, continue. Call me a bitch like everyone else." Jackie spat, pounding the table. The entire diner was looking at them now, including Star and Marco. "Everyone thinks I'm using, nasty and just a horrible person. Tell me you think that too." Oskar was frozen in shock, angering Jackie further. "TELL ME!"

"NO!" Oskar screamed his lungs out, unleashing bitter roar. "You want me to explain? FINE! I will. You cheated on Marco right after his fucking sister died and guess what? I LET that happen. And I was okay with it, because I felt a spark between us. Call it evil, but I loved you then and I love you NOW. But ever since he finally moved on, you are jealous! WHY!" Jackie fell back in her seat, shaking from fear. "Am I not good enough for you? Were all the comments about our future together lies? Did I waste my fucking time saving up money for this dinner?! You tell ME. NOW!"

Jackie opened and closed her mouth, again and again, unable to say anything. She only cried, looking at her plate. "I'm sorry… I'm a horrible person." Oskar felt the red clouding his vision gone, seeing horrified couples glaring at him. Taking a deep breath, he stormed out of the dinner, slamming the door shut. Loud sobbing can be heard from Jackie, who was too lost within herself to notice Marco running after Oskar and Star taking his seat.

Star pulled out Oskar's seat, rubbing her arm nervously. "Girl… Uh, you going to be okay?" Jackie looked up, her face now somewhat messy thanks to tears still running. Star sighed, passing her a napkin. "Just let it out. Let me know when you want to talk." Jackie nodded, wiping face and fixing herself up. Patting her cheeks, she gave a more composed look, giving a weak smile toward Star. "Now talk."

"I… Everyone thinks I'm this horrible person." She folded her hands, glaring harshly at them. "I mean… I did cheat on Marco. When Jessica died, he kept pushing me away and…"

"Then you just give him space?" Star butted in, folding hear arms unamused. "While what Marco went through doesn't compare to being mentally enslaved by a demon or suffering in a literal hellhole school, he still went through a lot." Star looked at the empty plate, seeing an image of Tom laughing at her. Being tempted to chuck the object away, she stopped, taking a deep breath to calm down. "Those scars… Not sure if they will ever heal."

"Wait… What did you go through?" Jackie asked, blinking in slight shock. Star rubbed her forehead, leaning her arm on the table. "You don't have to talk about it."

"Well… I don't mind, I guess. After dealing with a lot… I got my wand back and messed up using it. Again." Star holds up her wand, a faint pink hum radiating from it. "Being sent to Earth was my 'punishment' for messing things up but really, I'm happy about that." Her faint smile turned into a thin, blank expression. "And my past relationship before Marco wasn't great either." She tapped the table, letting anger seep through her gritted teeth. "That bastard made me his plaything for six damn months… Nearly married the prick before finally breaking free." Star shook her head, sitting upright. "I…went through a lot Jackie and it wasn't fun. At all. The reason I was so cold when coming to Earth. But Marco…" Star covered her chest, feeling her marks glow vivid red. "Out of everything in my messed up life, I know he has my back. No matter what."

Jackie's jaw dropped. "Wow, that's heavy girl. Since you spilled it all out to me, I should tell you my story. Want to hear it?" Star nods, pouring herself and Jackie another cup of water. "Thanks, the water tastes good here."

Star simply leaned forward, having a small smile. "Well, we are paying a lot of money for this… I think. Anyway, continue, want to hear what happened."

Jackie took a deep breath before speaking. "Here it goes… When Jessica died, Marco locked himself away from everyone. I mean… He still went to school and talked with everyone, but I felt his heart was sealed away. Canceling date plans, always working alone on school projects and even pushing Janna away." She paused, taking a deep breath. "But… I didn't want to feel so alone. I missed Jessica too. She was like the sister me and Janna never had. Oskar loved the little tike too. So… It was hard on all of us."

"I'm sorry…" Star said softly, looking away from Jackie. "So… What kick-started the thing between you and Oskar?"

"One night, Oskar and I were walking through the parks of Echo Creek. It was a nice spot, somewhere we always hung out after school. But Oskar and I broke down, singing a song that we both loved to sing. A song Jessica loved so much." She folded her arms, trying to keep her eyes on Star. "After that, we kissed. It felt so… Nice getting that physical touch again." She laid back in the chair, rubbing her forehead in self-anger. "So, we decided to go out and have fun. Oskar wanted to tell Marco right away, but I felt it was too cruel, considering his sister just died…"

"Well, that's your first issue," Star said bluntly. "Marco's a lot stronger than you think. He can take a lot and said that people always felt sorry for him. I mean… I get it, I do." Star slouched forward, feeling pressure for some reason. "I had a hard time opening up to Marco and just hearing all this from you now tells me getting closer to that heart of his… Might be tricky down the line." Star waved her hand, sitting back up again. "But point is, you should have talked to him. I assume he caught you and Oskar kissing or something, making him hate you for a while."

"Basically," Jackie answered, taking a slug of her water before putting it down. "Now, I feel… Odd. Seeing him with you makes me feel jealous and I hate that. He's so happy now and I don't want to ruin what I have with Oskar." She covered her face, groaning in annoyance. "What should I do girl?"

"Talk to Marco." Star got up, placing her hand on Jackie's shoulder. "He's very understanding about a lot of things." She walked off, going outside to get some air. 'Hopefully Marco's having better luck with Oskar.'

Jackie looked in Star's direction, feeling a large weight lifted off her back. "This feels…nice."

Oskar was leaning on a wall outside the diner, arms folded and eyes closed. Humming a small tune, he let a smile grace his face. Tapping his foot on the ground, he bobbed his head back and forth, trying to get invested in the tune. A lone tear came down his face, but he didn't notice. Marco opened the front door of the diner, looking around frantically. His eyes went wide, hearing a very familiar tune.

"So close no matter how far; couldn't be much more from the heart…" Oskar mumbled softly, opening his eyes to wipe away the tear. He jumped, feeling something touch his shoulder. Turning around with a clenched fist, he stopped, seeing Marco have a somber expression.

"Forever trusting who we are, and nothing else matters. Amazing lyrics for any situation." Marco bluntly said. Oskar took a deep breath, calming down. "Sorry about nearly giving you a heart attack man."

"It's fine but yesh, tell a guy before you show up behind him." Oskar grinned, relaxing on the wall. "I assume you heard my… Spat with Jackie before, huh?" Marco nods, leaning on the wall next to him. "I don't like getting angry like that, but… Everything is just… Getting to me."

"I get the feeling." Marco narrowed his eyes, looking up at the moon shining down above them. "Something's coming on my end soon too and I'm horrified about what it will bring." Oskar noticed the dark tone in Marco's voice, giving a nervous expression. "But… I gotta deal with it. Not losing Star for anything."

"Blondie really fixed you, huh?" Oskar earnestly asked, earning a dark laugh from Marco. "What? You aren't happy…" Marco said nothing, blankly looking ahead.

"I appear fixed, normal, and healthy again. But I'm not." He closed his eyes, feeling a dark memory creep up on him. "Every day, I feel something. Not sure what, but something like… All the good I'm doing now, being with Star and opening up to you guys again, will be yanked all away from me." Marco clenched his fist, lightly hitting the wall behind him. "And I will be broken all over again. But I can't feel this way, not when Star's counting on me."

"Shit… That sucks bro." Oskar responded, earning a light nod from Marco. "But… We all gotta face our demons."

"You know I got your back, right man?" Marco commented. Oskar stayed still, unsure how to respond. "We've been bros since grade school. Heck, you helped me learn English! I mean, I owe a lot to you."

"Nah, just being a good friend." Oskar waved the praise away. "You did a lot for me too. Couldn't believe how many tests I would have bombed if you didn't cram that knowledge here." He playfully tapped his head, making Marco laugh loudly.

"More like force you to study." The two snickered at each other. Comforted silence lingered, air gently brushing passing by. "But I can't thank you enough, for helping Jackie."

"Dude… She cheated on you and I let that happen." He got off the wall, folding his arms. "I mean, I love her man. Never letting her go and everything. But I still hurt you."

Marco closed his eyes, letting a nostalgic smile grace his face. "It hurt. Man, it hurt. But I was a bad boyfriend to Jackie. When Jessica died, I was a mess. We all were but it hit me the hardest." He hugged himself, feeling cold all of a sudden. "But you were suffering too. Janna, Jackie, Ferg, Alfonzo… And it hit you bad."

"Yeah, loved her like a sister," Oskar said firmly. "I get why you shut the world away. I wish I can do that sometimes too. But, I can't. I want to be a rock star, sharing my art with the world." He played on an air guitar, letting a bright grin dance across his face. "I want to share Jessica's song to the world one day."

Marco placed a warm hand on Oskar's shoulder. "I know. But I wasn't there for Jackie. You were though. Even though I'm with Star and love her a lot, I will always have a place for Jackie here." He lightly tapped his chest. "But I moved on… Wish she could."

"Me too…" Oskar sighed in annoyance. "Her stupid father hates me and always talks about how 'Marco was better at X' and 'You are a bum that'. Jerk…"

"He was a prick to me too dude," Marco responded. "I had to pay him to let me see her one time. Despite my high grades and a clean record." Oskar's jaw dropped. "Yep, guy's a prick. Though compared to what I faced tonight at Star's home… Her father is nothing compared to Moon."

"Star's mother? She's like a queen or something, right?" Marco nodded, leaning back on the wall. "Want to tell me what went down?"

"More or less, three things." Marco held out his hand. "She called me Mango twice." Oskar laughed loudly, ignoring Marco's burning gaze. "Glad you found that funny. Anyway, called me that, tried forcing Star to say on Mewni and seemingly doesn't care about her."

"Dude… That's harsh. No wonder she was so quiet when first coming here." Marco looked up at the sky, seeing the moon turn a shade of red. "So, what happens now?"

"I guess… Not sure really. Star is going to stay on Earth for good, so that's nice." He turned around, having a serious look toward Oskar. "But you, what's your plan? I'm here if you need help but you need to patch things up with Jackie."

"She likes you though still and I don't want to cause another scene," Oskar answered, looking away. Marco grabbed his wrist, tugging him to follow. "Dude, I'm not ready to go back in!"

"Nearly jumped over ten cars one time but afraid to talk to a single person?" Marco teased, earning a loud groan from Oskar. "I got your back, come on." They walked into the diner again, ready to face their partners.

Oskar and Marco were back inside the diner, everyone eating calmly after the chaos from before. Star leaned on a counter, smiling at the incoming duo. "Hey boys. Did you knock some sense into Oskar?"

"I'm right here…" Oskar spat, but Star waved it off. "But yeah, feel a lot better. Is Jackie okay?" Star smirked, pointing toward Jackie's table. She was sitting calmly, eyes locked on her food-filled plate. "Great, I will see you two later. Oh and Princess? You're lucky to have him." Marco pounded Oskar's fist before he sat back down.

Watching him talk with Jackie again, Marco sighed contently. "Good thing those two are fine now. What did you say to Jackie?" Star leaned in close, winking playfully before kissing Marco's cheek.

"I have my ways, Diaz. Now, our food came and I waited until you were finished." Marco took Star's hand, quietly walking back to the table. Both sat down, mouths watery from the aroma of the food. "This smells sooooo good!" She took a bite out of her Chicken Sandwich, moaning contently. Marco couldn't help but smile at the sight, blushing at the sight of her nearly glowing face. Taking a bite out of his own sandwich, he felt some relief.

"I've been waiting to eat for hours. So worth it." Marco let out a small burp, covering his mouth in embarrassment. Star put down her sandwich, lightly snickering before she burped too. They looked at each other for a few seconds before erupting into joyous laughter.

Hours seemingly passed, as both couples were enjoying their night out. As the group left the dinner, Marco looked near the parking lot. "You want us to join two on the walk home?" Star held on to Marco's hand, having a content expression.

"We're cool dude." Oskar waved at the comment, looking at Jackie. "Actually, you want to talk with Marco?" Jackie blinked a few times, looking at Oskar in confusion. "You two should, you know, throw bridge under the water."

"Water under the bridge," Marco said deadpanned. Oskar laughed as he guided Star toward Marco's bike. Jackie stood still, rubbing her arm nervously. "Look… I don't hate you. Okay? I understand why things… Went bad between us."

"I still hurt you and me…" She laughed darkly at herself. "Can't believe this but I still want to be with you. But I know we both moved on. Can we just…" Jackie was going to continue but Marco silenced her with a warm hug. "What are you…"

"You don't think I miss us? I wish I could have worked things out, but Oskar takes good care of you." He tightens his hug, feeling his face grow a frown. "I didn't deal with things well. We all miss her. But… Time is strange, pushing us to move forward. We will always be friends."

Jackie hugged Marco back, enjoying the warmth. "Thank you, Marco." They stayed like this, unaware of Oskar and Star giving each other a hi-five. Letting go, they had understanding similes, walking toward their partners. "I'm ready dude." Oskar and Jackie hopped on a blue skateboard. "See you around guys!"

Star and Marco waved goodbye, seeing them vanish in the darkness. "That's sweet, seeing you two make up." Star elbowed Marco playfully. "I'm ready for my ride home." She strapped on the pink helmet, sitting in the front. "I'm riding this time."

"I never taught you how to ride the bike though…" Marco put his helmet on, putting his arms around Star's waist. "When you feel worried or anything, just tell me okay?" Star said nothing, only grinning. She kicked the pedals, sending the two flying at high speeds. "We are going too fast!"

Star just laughed loudly, taking out her wand and blasting some pink light into the sky. As the duo raced back home, a simple heart saying 'SB + MD' hovered in the sky. Walking out of the dinner, a tall man shook his head. Morphing back into a tiny blue man, he smirked. "Those two are something…"

Review Round-Up!

Sussy - We can't kill Moon... *Looks at chapter count* We got like, over 50 chapter left to cover :P.

SernaJ - I'm aware of that. I made that creative choice for a key reason, which you see later down the line. And I'm happy you are enjoying the story so far!

RobLebron - Glad you dislike Moon last chapter, as that was the intention... Mostly, showing how flawed she is regarding her bond with Star. Regarding your role... Please don't mind but Leb/Tom/Dante/Rasticore will be showing up in a few chapters from now (like...I believe Chap. 19/20). I'm taking my time and don't worry, Leb will have special roles past the Tom arc ;).

Momijifan Low-Ki - Answering your points one at a time. Yes, Toffee is a good guy (Shocked gasp). No, Dante doesn't love Star 'that way' (something I will dive into further in later chapters) and Yes/No, Moon is nasty but she has her reasons.

jolleIQ - Thank you for the review! My goal for this project was to really go in a different direction for Star Vs, make it MY own thing. Really happy with the end result :).

Kuriyan BBQ - Yeah, last chapter sure was a hoot to write :P. I'm excited to write Dante some more down the line :D.

MindCleaver27 - Thank you! I shoot for these releasing weekly and seems like I'm hitting that target! Star's put-down of Moon felt so good to write. Glad you loved that part.

Bedrock Armor - Star's sour on Mewni and yeah, Toffee's a good chum in the story. The references are something I'm going to try and cut-down on personally, but glad you caught that. Moon was...interesting to write for sure.

Anonymous. MISTER Anonymous - Moon isn't possessed or anything. She has reasons for her actions. Just... Note the name of this story itself. 'Connecting Troubled Souls'. Everyone here is broken on some level. Just... a little hint ;).

Oracle6044 - Dante is going to be protective over Star, as her last boyfriend was...something for sure. And no, Dante isn't a love interest or anything. You will see what I have planned for him soon, but him and Marco will be buddies down the line :).

PauloPT90 - I sent a long PM chain with you about specifics but I ditched 'Shining Stars' because I wanted to make my own completely original Star Vs. Story outside of canon. And thus, here we are. Regarding last chapter, Pete's powers mirror Sans from Underworld but outside of some sly references, that's it. He is NOT Sans, he's an original character. I'm proud of how I used Pete here personally :). Toffee is connected to Star for sure and Dante, again, isn't a love interest.

Mario and BFDI Bros - Spoilers! Sheesh... You almost gave away Jessica being revived by aliens and junk... Wait, oh crud. To be serious though, her death will be properly explained in the future. When the time is right, you will see. Jessica's role in the story is...very, very important. Keep an eye out, is all I will say.

Nina - You are getting there! Keep looking for those pieces, they will become more common onward. And that was my goal last chatper, so glad you dislike Moon more.