Author's Note:

This is my first fan-fiction. It is rated M for potentially offensive material in later chapters along with some semi-raunchy language. This is not strictly a romantic story between Ron and Kim, though toward the second act of the story, it may be prevalent.

Please, if possible, to ensure good sportsmanship, review this chapter if at all possible. Let me know what you like, what you don't, and we'll see what we can do.

I highly encourage everyone reading to go to my profile and read the assumptions I've made going into this story. It will likely be helpful insofar as basic questions are concerned. As far as the placement of this story, this takes place November of Kim and Ron's Junior year (prior to So the Drama, of course). Others notes are made in my profile, so if interested, check it out.

I hope those who read it enjoy, and any comments, whether constructive criticism or kind words, would be appreciated. Without further delay, I now will begin the story.

She was jetting down an darkened corridor of stone, both as swiftly and silently as a cat. Her red hair whipped behind her as she raced to her destination, which, at that precise moment, escaped her. And so she kept running.

Eventually the girl ceased movement when she came upon a door with a sliver of light fleeing from the crack at the bottom. This was the room, she was sure of it. She had no idea why this room was so important, but in her heart she knew it was crucial to her mission. She opened the door quickly, clenching her fists, expecting the worst.

For no reason, as it turned out. The room was completely barren.

Kim's eyes shot open, the dream already slipping through her mind's feeble grasp. Her room, on the other hand, was coming into a clearer focus as she blinked her eyes rapidly. She glanced over at her clock, which read 7:35 am, and smirked to herself, wondering if it was too early for Ron to be awake.

Sitting up, Kim was rubbing her head, trying to shake off the drowsiness that was oft accompanied with waking. Thinking ahead to today's schedule, which, as far as she knew, consisted purely of hanging out with Ron all day (not that she minded or had anything more important to do), she stretched her arms and yawned, feeling almost fully awake.

Jumping up off her bed, she sauntered toward her closet in search of a new outfit for a new day. Kim chose a typical, albeit stylish, dark blue top coupled with jeans of a light purple variety, Club Banana stock of course. Hugging them in her arms, she set off for the bathroom to shower, wondering what the day would hold.

She rushed downstairs adorning her choice clothes of the day, barely acknowledging her parents who were sitting and talking at the kitchen table.

"Good morning, Kimmie-cub," her father greeted, looking up from his newspaper while sipping steaming coffee.

Ugh, thought Kim upon hearing that relic of a nickname. "Hey Dad, Mom. Sorry, gotta run, I'm going out to meet Ron today. Don't worry about breakfast, we'll pick something up."

She hurried out the door, not hearing her mother call her name in hopes of gaining her attention. Her parents looked at each other, sighing, knowing she'd be back soon.

I probably didn't bring enough for breakfast at some restaurant, but Ron would probably pay for it if he could, Kim mused, hugging her arms to ward off the slight early morning chill. He's been acting all weird lately though, and I so don't want him to stress out at all. Shaking off that thought, her mind returned to the more immediate issue of breakfast. Hope Ron's parents still have some food left. That is if Ron didn't eat it all.

She was grinning widely, not entirely sure why she was so much more eager to see Ron than usual.

Maybe it's because of what Monique said, her mind put forward, a thought Kim didn't overly welcome.

The previous week, when conversing about guys and dating, she asked if Ron had ever tried putting a move on her. That question surprised Kim, not understanding where she was coming from.

"Girl, you know you're the most desirable girl in school. When is Mr. Clueless going to realize his best friend is a hottie," Monique's inquiry echoed.

Kim sighed, and started walking faster. Though she thought Monique had a small point, it disconcerted her that getting together with Ron dating-wise was eventually expected of her, especially when Ron was just a friend. Hypothetically, if Kim wanted to date him (So not, thought Kim defiantly), he probably would be freaked out, say no, and never talk to her again. Even worse, he might say yes even if he didn't feel the same for her just because she wanted him to (being the dominate one in a friendship sometimes had that effect). Heck, maybe he does feel the same way, but after a few dates it doesn't work out, and we break up, effectively ending our friendship as well.

"It's so damn complicated," she mumbled to herself, and looked around, starting to take more notice of her surroundings. Ron's house was almost right in front of her. Wondering if it felt like a quick journey because she was walking fast or because she had a lot on her mind, she grinned and closed the distance between herself and the front door. Although Ron would most certainly be up by this time (if not woken up by Rufus or his parents, surely the grumbling of his stomach would do the job) the house appeared empty, causing Kim's smile to slowly fade.

What? Like, where would he be this early with his parents? Doctor's office? Surely not. She glanced around suspiciously, wishing for some sign or indication of where they went.

Peering in through a window to the side of the door, while attempting to not look too shifty should any of his neighbors see her, Kim spotted a perfectly tidy living room. Her smile returned when she saw pictures of Ron's childhood on the opposing wall in neat order. The first one that caught her eye was one of both Ron and Kim when they were eight, hugging each other tightly with big smiles on their faces (the occasion, however, Kim begrudgingly forgot with time). The sunlight bounced off Kim's face, making her burn with a blush (reminding Kim that sometimes being a redhead sucked), while Ron's boyish grin was making the much older Kim long for the past.

Next to that gem was a photo of Ron and Rufus, perhaps their first anniversary of being owner and pet, because Ron was holding a taco with a candle in the formation of a "1" placed between the contents. Rufus sure did look younger back then, Kim noted, finding it strange how even a fur-less creature could age so noticeably. Directly beneath that one was an occasion that Kim remembered well enough but didn't understand: Ron's Bar Mitzvah. Not being remotely Jewish, of course she wouldn't expect herself be able to comprehend-

Duh. Kim slapped her forehead lightly, greatly irked at herself. Ron and his family must be at Temple right now. Feeling foolish, she turned away from the house and felt a twinge of sadness rise from her stomach. I could, I guess, wait here for them to get back, but I don't know when they left or how long this usually takes, plus it'd seem sorta stalkish of me to hang around here. Stupid synagogue, his family's not even Orthodox, why bother going?

Kim audibly groaned, frustrated, and began drifting back home.

He started going every Saturday morning weeks ago, why did I forget now? My parents could have at least reminded me, Kim ranted in her mind, they're geniuses, you'd think they'd be able to remember. Another voice, a more logical one, spoke up in her head, simply stating the truth of the situation: You forgot too.

The walk back was a quick-paced one, with nothing distracting her from her confusing thoughts on Monique's words about Ron and whether or not she considered him something more than a good (No, the best) friend. Closing her eyes briefly, she saw Ron's face, his characteristic grin, his light-hearted nature evident.

Kim halted, and glanced around at the nearby houses. Some people were out on their porches, while others were getting into their automobiles. An elderly couple could be seen tending to their small, modest garden in their front yard. The sun was rising, but still low enough to give the whole scene an atmospheric and almost majestic tone.

It truly is a beautiful morning, thought Kim, its charm seeping in for a few seconds more before she started home again.

Opening the door to her house quietly in hopes that no one would notice her, Kim stepped in and instantly heard her father's voice.

"You know, Kimmie, your mother tried to remind you that Ron wouldn't be home right now, but you were gone before she could yell more than your name." Her father was still sitting at the table, The Examiner lying in front of him; his body turned her way, hands in his lap.

"Yeah, sorry Dad, no big, right," Kim asked, her voice growing slightly feeble as a small frown formed on her father's face.

"Kim…," Mr. Possible replied, his tone becoming much sterner, "it's not so much the running out part that bothered us; it's the part where you gave us none of your time. Heck," he continued, his voice a little more jovial but his eyes still hardened, "Ron is spending all his morning with his family, and you can't spend five seconds with us? I know you might think that it's not that big of a deal, Kimmie, but it is for your mother and I."

Kim nodded and looked down to her feet, agreeing with everything that her father had scolded her about. Worse, by the sounds of it, her mother was called in on some emergency and she couldn't apologize to her now unless she wanted everyone listening over the intercom. She sighed lightly and moved her eyes up toward her fathers'.

"I'm sorry, Dad," Kim confessed, "I don't really know why I rushed off so quickly. I just really wanted to see Ron. I – it won't happen again, I promise." And that was the end of it, because Mr. Possible could tell the honesty of her words.

"Well, Kimmie-cub, it's great you have a friend you're so devoted to, but it's important to not forget the other people who love you," (Kim blushed at the usage of the word "love" but it went unnoticed). "Am I to assume that later you're going back out once he returns home," he questioned, his eyes not wavering from hers.

"Yep, I plan on it, if it's okay. I just don't see why he can't sleep in 'til 10:00 am like he does every other day."

Her father chuckled, replying, "It's amazing what a strong belief in something can motivate someone to do, even a normally unmotivated boy such as Ronald. Anyhow," continued Mr. Possible, as he shifted his body away from his daughter and grabbed the newspaper in front of him, "when you go upstairs, check on Jim and Tim, will you? I only saw them for a split second before they went back to their room, muttering something about a secret project. Your mother would be vexed, to put it lightly, if they blew up another part of the house." He looked down and started reading his paper again.

Kim, assuming she was dismissed, moved toward the door to the stairs. "Sure thing, Dad. See you later."

"Uh-huh," he nodded, his eyes staying on the paper which now held the majority of his attention.

For their sake I hope the Tweebs aren't up to anything. Mom was really tweaked at them after their last rockets caused almost $700 of damage.

After peeking in on them and seeing them tinkering with a radio, which, for any other boys of their age would seem harmless and innocent, she decided it was nothing to get her father concerned about, at least not at the current stage. If she heard the words "rocket fuel" though…

Reaching her room, she flung herself carelessly on her bed, turned over on her back and began staring at her Persian blue ceiling, wishing she could see through it and observe the sky.

I am so bored. Pulling her Kimmunicator out of her pocket, she was about to check Club Banana's website (thanks to Wade updating the device to connect to the internet anytime, anywhere) when the phone on her nightstand rang. Moving her hand to the receiver, she picked it up and said "Hello?"

"Hey there, girl," the familiar voice of Monique said, "what you up to?"

"Well, actually," Kim started, before being cut off by her friend on the other end.

"So not concerned right now. You heard the news," she asked excitably.

"Uh, no, what news is that," asked the redhead, bemused.

"New Club Banana stock, girl," Monique shrieked. "Like, those cute little pink shirts you were drooling over Thursday? They're coming in two new colors, periwinkle and sky blue!"

"Get out!" Kim shouted, now sharing the enthusiasm felt by her best female friend. "How much?"

"Who cares? I know your mind and body both want them, girl. Bonnie would flip if she saw you in them. They're coming in Tuesday, so have your purse ready."

Though a little put off Monique didn't tell her the price (which was far from a good sign, she knew), Kim moved on. "Thanks for the tip, Monique, I mean it. So, how's your morning been?"

"Not bad on my front but ya know; Saturday mornings and all. I'll probably go out later, but who knows." Laughing, and almost as an afterthought, she asked, "You?"

"Eh, bored here, but so not the drama. I actually forgot Ron wasn't going to be home this morning and I ran off to his house. Facepalm moment for sure," Kim commented, trying to make light of what she still thought was a stupid mistake.

"Why wouldn't Ron be at home this morning," Monique curiously inquired.

"He went to church with his parents. Well," Kim corrected herself, "Temple, but you know, same diff, right?"

"Huh, I thought he wasn't that into religion. Never knew the Ron Man stuck by his faith so much. I thought his God was the Naco."

Laughing, Kim replied, "Yeah, well, I don't know. Recently, he's been going to Temple a lot more. Not sure what's up."

"Ah, a mystery," she replied, the smile in her voice obvious. "That reminds me, you think anymore about what we talked about last week?"

"Um, not really, Monique," Kim replied, biting her lower lip. "You know, with missions and homework, who has time to think about that stuff?"

Monique scoffed. "Uh, everyone but you, girl," she retorted, her tone sassy. "I didn't mean ta scare you, Kim. Just pointing out the obvious. It might not even be a thing, but keep your eyes open, 'kay?"

"Will do," Kim replied, if for no other reason than to placate her. She paused for a second, and then decided to voice her concerns. "Part of the reason I wanted to see him so early was because, you know, he's been sort of acting strange the last few days. I actually thought he might try to get out of Temple to stay home and relax, but he didn't."

"Girl, just admit it, he's always off. I mean, last time I saw him, he seemed fine to me. You're losing it," she playfully stated.

"Maybe I am overthinking it," Kim suggested, her tone indicating otherwise, and sighed aloud. "I guess it makes sense that he does more with his life than stuff himself with Bueno Nacho," she continued, still moderately bothered but deciding to let it go for now.

"Yeah, truth." Monique paused, and Kim heard another voice on the other side of the line, and her friend said, "Oh, hey, gotta go but I'll talk to you later, yeah?"

"Sure thing, thanks a bunch for the tip." She heard Monique say something sounding a lot like "No problem" then hanging up.

Kim placed the phone down, her brow furrowed, and made a mental note to be sure not to forget the new shirts coming in. Talking with Monique generally cheered her up, even when they only chatted about trivial, non-crucial things (not that Club Banana clothing was ever non-crucial, of course), but this whole Ron thing...

She sighed again, and to prevent herself from further fretting over her best friend, Kim looked to her clock, already feeling the boredom beginning to creep up on her again.

As stupid as I feel thinking this, Kim admitted to herself, get home soon, Ron.

Hoping somehow he heard her thoughts, Kim closed her eyes, and laid back, allowing a restless slumber to fall upon her.

"Ronald, what took so long? Your father and I have been waiting at least twenty minutes," the stern, concerned voice of Ron's mother demanded.

"Um, nothing, Mom. I just had a few questions for Rabbi Katz, that's all," Ron murmured, his eyes averting theirs while closing the car door.

Cleaning off her glasses, his mother replied, "Next time try and give a warning to us we'll have to wait, please," which was slightly drowned out by the sound of the automobile turning on.

"Anything we could help you with, Ronald," inquired the calm voice of his father, looking into the mirror at his son who he could swear was brooding. "Numbers may be my specialty, but I have no problems with other topics, son."

Rubbing his neck, Ron just replied, "Gee, Dad, thanks for the offer, but it's fine. Rabbi Katz sorted it out. I just wanna get home before Rufus dies of starvation." Though Rufus was hungry, as he always was, Ron's hyperbole went unnoticed for what it truly was: a plea to return to the comforts of his room.

"Ronald, please, no whining or melodramatics. If you want, we can pick up some Bueno Nacho to go, or eat-in, even. Our schedules are pretty open today, right honey," she asked, looking over at her husband, who was skimming through the most recent copy of Journey of Risk and Uncertainty.

"Mmmm, sure is," was the total sum of Mr. Stoppable's reply.

Ron gave a nervous titter before answering, careful not to sound too unexcited. "That'd be great, Mom, ya' know, if you two are fine with it."

"Then it's a date," said his father, placing the magazine into the glove compartment.

Though Ron was perfectly happy to be having Bueno Nacho for what would constitute lunch (and Rufus above thrilled, chattering hungrily at his side) he still felt drained, as he's been feeling for around a week or so. Usually able to put emotional strains behind him (or at least hide it from others), it's been harder recently to try and conceal his increasingly depressed state. Instead of thinking about what to order when they get to Bueno Nacho or what television programs he might want to watch that night, his mind was blank as he stared out of the window at the passing landscapes. His thoughts wandered through the barren plains of his mind while his parents chatted about their professions until they arrived at their destination.

Ron ambled into his room, followed by a satisfied yet still-craving Rufus. He dropped on his bed, face first, and pulled a pillow over his head, which for some odd reason was a comfortable position for him. I'm such a mess right now, he thought, glancing over at his pet curling up into a ball on his desk. I should probably call KP, she's probably expecting it. And, he mentally added, she can help get my mind off my prob. With this positive notion in mind, he phoned her.

Kim awoke from her doze upon hearing the ring of her phone. Stifling a yawn, already regaining focus, she picked up the receiver saying "Hello?"

"Hey there, KP."

Ron. Kim automatically smiled, always happy to hear his voice, even if he's seemed off lately.

"How are you," she asked in a cheery tone, not quite reflective of her inner concerns at the time.

"Ah, ya know, not bad. Can I come over? I, like, didn't want to bother anyone there or anything. It cool," he asked, in what Kim considered an anxious tone.

The question alone took her for surprise. Ron was never inconsiderate (aside from some of his hideous eating habits) but asking permission to come over was taking it to new heights. He usually just showed up. Needless to say, Kim's thoughts became even more perturbed.

"Of course," Kim replied, still in a smiling voice despite her thoughts, "no need to even ask. Be here soon." She hung up the phone before Ron even had the chance to reply. She instantly regretted cutting the conversation short.

Kim, how could you do that? She scolded herself. Well, maybe on the bright side when he comes over he'll be willing to tell me what's bothering him. Usually his sitches don't last for too long and this one's only been going on for, like, a week, but it seems serious and I don't even have a clue as to what's going on. She sighed. Well, Ron, if you want to talk about it or need any help, I'll be here, I promise.

As Ron knocked once on the door, it immediately opened revealing Kim on the other side, looking as cheerful as ever, though her clothing appeared slightly rumpled.

"KP, what up," jovially asked Ron, thinking Wow, I guess I woke her up with my call. He walked through the door frame into her house.

She laughed, though she knew her friend was obviously feigning his happiness, at least to a degree. "Not a thing, happy I could finally see you today."

With a look of puzzlement, Ron asked, "Huh?"

"Well, you see, I thought that –"

"Is that Ronald I hear," called Mr. Possible's voice from the dining room.

"Sure is, Mr. Possible," he confirmed, moving toward the greeting.

"How have you been doing," Kim's father politely asked, placing his book, which Kim read out as being Subatomic Microparticles for Beginners Volume XIV, on his lap as he looked at Ron.

"Uh, oh, you know, average, I guess." Kim noted he subtly fidgeted his fingers but her father noticed nothing as his eyes didn't move off Ron's.

"Well, Kimmie can turn an average day into a great one in a jiffy. It's a Possible family trait," he said, not seeing Kim cringe at the corniness of his words.

"Uh-huh, sure, I knew KP had powers of some sort," Ron replied, in a drawn out tone making Kim want to jab him hard, no matter what else was going on.

Bored with the small talk, Kim tried to signal her father to let Ron free, which he must have received because his next words were, "Well, you and Kim run along. You might find it beneficial to do more homework tonight. It'd save you time tomorrow."

"Thanks, Dad," said Kim, pulling Ron's arm away. Walking towards the stairs, Ron asked, "Do we have any h-work to finish?"

"Nah, so not. We got it all done yesterday. A once-in-a-lifetime miracle," she joked. Silence, aside from the rapid Tweeb-Speak from their room as they were passing, followed.

Entering her room and searching for something to say, Kim asked where Rufus was (as his little head had yet to pop out of Ron's pocket).

"Ah, he fell asleep pretty soon after we got home and he was pretty worn out 'cuz the little guy managed to stay awake during all of Temple," he replied, taking a seat on Kim's bed.

"Oh, okay."

Enough with the small talk, ask him. If he won't come out and say it, I'll just have to push the convo. Sitting down next to him, seeing him downcast, Kim knew she had to speak up.

"Ron, what's going on? Drop the act. You can lie to my dad, but don't lie to me and say you're fine," Kim spoke, totally serious in tone, hoping Ron would answer honestly.

"It's," Ron hesitated, still not looking up, "sorta complicated."

"Ron," Kim said, taking his left hand into her's, causing him to shift his gaze towards her, "just tell me about it and I can help."

He sighed and delayed a few seconds before answering. "KP, it's about –"

The ringing of the Kimmunicator sounded, causing Kim to drop his hand and groan. Picking up the mini-computer, she bitterly spat, "What's the sitch?"

"Hello to you, too," said Wade, looking slightly put off at Kim's less than gracious greeting.

"Wade, it's so not the moment. What up?" Kim strained to keep the aggravation out of her voice. She was irritated at the interruption, but since Wade didn't really do anything wrong intentionally, she tried to let it go.

"Got an interesting hit on the site, thought it'd be something to look into," stated Wade professionally, typing away at his computer.

"Sounds great, where we going?"

"Oh, uh, nowhere right now. This is sort of a unique mission," said Wade, looking up from his monitor. "You don't start this mission until Monday night."

Kim looked over at Ron, and saw he shared the same look of intrigue on his face, shrugging his shoulders. "Okay, what is this mission?"

"Okay, there's going to be an assassination attempt on Johann Trotzer, a 90-year-old former CEO of a baked goods company. He travels to Germany a lot and is a citizen of and currently lives in Luxembourg. He contacted the site in hopes that you would be able to protect him."

"Why's he being targeted," Kim asked, already taking mental notes.

"Not sure, really. The threatening note he received was a bit vague, and he may be holding something back, but I did a background check and he appears clean, from the little I could find."

"Huh," Kim wondered aloud. "That is sorta... odd."

"Yeah, and it comes with a major downside," replied the boy, looking slightly worried at bringing this up.

"Cut to the chase, what?"

"Technically speaking, we don't know the exact day this attempt will occur, probably either Wednesday or Thursday. The point is he needs you there by Tuesday morning so you should leave Monday night, which means you're looking at possibly missing the rest of the week of school and maybe even facing a shortened weekend."

"WADE," Kim shouted, not believing he thought this would fly, "what makes you think this is even a possibility? I mean, four to five days?"

"Well, KP," Ron spoke up, "anything's possible for a Possible."

Fuming, Kim turned her head and looked at him. "Sure, Ron, and I'm sure your parents will be completely fine with this."

"Eh, I don't see why they would have a problem with it," Ron said, looking sincere in his statement.

Kim was about to angrily retort, but before she could, Wade cut in.

"Not sure if this helps," he said, drawing Kim's attention away from Ron (which he was grateful for), "but Trotzer really only wants you, Kim. He knows you usually work with a sidekick," he explained, nodding at Ron, "but doesn't think one would be that useful. If Ron doesn't want to go, he doesn't have to."

No way, Kim thought. Not only would his academics fail miserably, except maybe for Home Ec., but there's no way I'm going all the way to Europe to guard over some old guy by myself.

Ron saw something going on behind Kim's eyes and hoped whatever she was thinking, it was in his favor. "Uh, KP, if you want to, you know, take this mission solo, I'd be cool with it."

Not registering Ron's comment, she replied, "No, Wade, that is so not happening. Ron goes where I go. Tell him if he's not okay with that, he can forget my help." The statement came out a bit more aggressive than she had meant but she also hoped it got the point across.

"No problem, Kim, chill. It was just a suggestion he offered. You know, if Ron stayed, he could get your homework and notes that you'd miss. There are cons to being inseparable."

"We're not inseparable!" both Ron and Kim stated in unison. Quickly, Kim stated "Jinx, you owe me a soda," lightly punching him in the arm.

"So not fair, KP. You have to give me time to retort," Ron whined.

"Ron, the whole point of –"

"Guys, focus," Wade intervened, looking directly at Kim. "Look, normally I wouldn't be putting you guys in the position to miss this much schoolwork. There's an added benefit, though, and it's that this guy's loaded, and though he knows you don't work for profit, he insists on donating a rather impressive amount of money to virtually any charity of choice you want. I seriously recommend you find some way to get your parents to okay this mission."

"Don't you think this sounds sort of shady? Like it could be a trap or something," Kim inquired, hoping for any small delay in having to tell her parents she'd be neglecting her duties as a student for a week.

"At first, yeah, of course," the twelve-year old replied, looking at her as though she was crazy, "but believe me, I didn't find anything to indicate that this Trotzer guy is a threat. Yes, it's odd, but maybe the old guy's just generous. Look, I have to go, but I can give you more information on Monday when I get your ride set up, if you decide to go."

My dad would so not approve, thought Kim. Maybe if I could get this guy to send some funding for the Middleton Space Center…

Sighing, Kim nodded her head. "Sure, Wade, set it up."

"Kay, and you, Ron? You still plan on going," asked Wade.

Nervously, Kim ran her right hand through her hair, not truly believing Ron would ever not go on a mission with her, but still gave a small sigh of relief when he said yes. They said their goodbyes, leaving Ron and Kim alone again in peace.

"Um, well, that was interesting," Ron stated, breaking the silence. "You still worried it might be a trap, KP?"

"Not sure, you know how extensive Wade's checks are. I guess you never know until you get there." Her mind wondered about the soon-to-be mission and if it was going to be any more difficult than her usual sitches. She was brought back to Earth with Ron's words.

"Hey, I know I sorta just got here, but I should go home and tell my parents about the mission," Ron said, already getting up and moving toward the door.

"Ron, it's Saturday; you have all of tomorrow to get their approval. Just stay here," Kim begged.

"Nah, I really should go now. It might take some time to get them to go along with it."

"Wait, Ron, don't think for a second I forgot what we were talking about before Wade called in."

"We can talk about it later, KP. I promise. It's not that big of a deal," Ron claimed with little conviction in his voice, as he was walking down the steps.

Defeated, Kim gave in. "Okay, fine, but be sure not to forget, because I won't. Ron," he turned his head back to look at her, "have a great rest of the day. Good luck with the 'rents. I'll call you later tonight, and if I don't, tomorrow."

A smile broke out on Ron's face, infectious in every sense of the word as it made Kim grin also.

"Kay, hear you then."

"Oh, and say hi to Rufus for me," she shouted down the steps, hearing a low "Sure" in return. Grinning, she lay down on her bed, her legs hanging off the side.

Though I didn't solve or even find a thing out about Ron's ish, maybe a week in Luxembourg will help. Closing her eyes, she felt at peace.

As she was scarfing down breakfast Monday morning, Kim was stressed. She managed to finally get her parents' approval late last night after a whole day of visiting one of her Aunts uptown. It would cost her dearly, though, in the form of Tweeb-sitting for what equaled three weeks. Though they didn't meet up yesterday, she knew Ron also got an okay from his parents, but she was hardly shocked: Kim couldn't think of parents more carefree than Ron's.

Speaking of Ron, where is he? Kim thought to herself while chewing on some scrambled eggs. He said he'd be here early to walk with me to school, but he hasn't shown. What gives?

At that instance, someone knocked on the door. Just in time, Kim smirked to herself, snatching up her books and moving toward the sound. Naturally, upon opening the door, Ron stood in his trademark red jersey and baggy pants, Rufus poking his head out of the pocket.

"Good morning, KP, you ready to go," Ron asked, shifting his backpack from one shoulder to the other.

"Sure thing," Kim said, turning her head and shouting "Goodbye, Dad."

Hearing a small blast from what she presumed was the Tweebs' room, she turned back around not expecting a reply, but smiled when she heard "Okay Kimmie-cub, you too. See you after school, if the house is still standing."

"Let's go before the Tweebs come our way, 'kay," she said, moving past Ron in the door frame.

Complying, Ron followed, moving his right hand to shut the door and then block his eyes from the bright rising sun.

"So, why were you late," Kim inquired out of interest, looking his way.

"So not late, KP, just not here when I said I'd be," he corrected her, looking back.

"Um, that's like the definition of late, you know? Anyway, spill, why?"

"I wasn't feeling too badical this morning. I almost thought about staying home but decided it'd be better to come today," he confessed.

"Are you feeling alright now," Kim asked, looking at his face with concern.

"Yeah, I guess," he said, shrugging, "just a small headache."

"Oh," replied Kim, "I'm proud you're taking the initiative to get your homework yourself and not leave it up to me, even though you're not feeling your best."

"Well, yeah, the homework thing is a plus, but I was coming more for you," Ron nonchalantly said.

Blushing slightly, Kim shyly turned her head away, acutely aware her heart rate was increasing. "What do you mean," she asked, the words flowing quickly.

"Oh, you know, when you give Bonnie control of the squad, I think you'd need someone to restrain you from mauling her," Ron half-joked, a toothy smile forming on his face.

Kim groaned at being reminded of the fact that she indeed decided to give Bonnie leadership for the short time they were gone. Though she's not the second best in the squad athletically (which is a sentiment Kim intended on making very clear), she was the most demanding and bossy after Kim (not that Kim considered herself bossy), and just might make an okay squad captain. That thought was nowhere near enough to make the decision easy, though, by any means.

"Thanks so much for reminding me," Kim sarcastically replied, rolling her eyes. "Just the thing I needed to make my morning bright and sunny."

"No prob, you know the Ron Man is here to serve." Kim noted that he didn't seem to catch on that she was annoyed, but let it go, still concerned about whatever was going on with him.

I am so not closer to the bottom of this. I'm sure he'll tell me, but I don't want to bring it up again or it might make things awkward.

"Well," Kim started, her voice not betraying emotion, "I guess it's the thought that counts."

"Yeah, you know, you'd think so, but that excuse never works when I forget to do any chores," he stated in a genuinely confused tone that caused Kim to giggle slightly.

"Oh yeah, you do chores," Kim asked with a grin on her face, trying to imagine someone as disorderly as Ron being responsible for cleaning something.

Puffing out his chest, Ron replied, "It's in my DNA to want to pitch in. What do you think I did all of yesterday?"

"Chores? Really? Why?" Kim didn't see him at all yesterday as she was out of the area herself, but when Kim called him late last night, he never actually mentioned what he did all day.

"Since I'm going to be away for a little, I just had to sorta clean the house," he said, shrugging his shoulders, "seemed fair and it wasn't too bad with Rufus' help." Hearing his name, Rufus crawled out of Ron's pocket and gave him a thumbs up. "I know, lil' Pal, you da man!"

Huh, Kim thought, he might be more responsible than I ever gave him credit for.

The rest of the short walk was uneventful aside from a squirrel chasing Rufus (which, while horrifying Ron and his pet, deeply amused Kim). Five minutes later they were walking through the doors of Middleton High.

"So, are we supposed to talk to Mr. B now or after our first class," asked Ron, moving his left hand into his pocket.

"POSSIBLE, STOPPABLE, HOMEROOM. NOW," came the rumbling voice of Mr. Barkin.

Flinching, Kim replied, "Now, I think." They walked quickly to their homeroom, empty except for their teacher, who was glaring at them.

"What up, Mr. B," Ron asked, not hearing Kim groan beside him (or Rufus groan from his pocket, for that matter).

"The sky, Stoppable, which you would obviously know if you paid attention in your science class. Now, I got a call from your mother, Possible, and –"

"You did, why," Kim inquired, instantly regretting it.

"If you'd stop yapping I'd tell you." Kim blushed, turned her gaze downwards and folded her arms behind her back. "She told me, rushed as she was sewing a man's spinal cord back in," (Ron blanched) "that you have some important mission you have to do that will cause you to miss four, five days of school. Correct?"

"Well, Mr. B, only three if we're lucky," stated Ron, sincerely looking as if that sentiment would help improve the situation.

It didn't.

"I hate to disappoint you, Stoppable, but you're not lucky. Over the course of the next week, in your total classes combined, you were to have seven tests and quizzes, none of which were to be on Friday. Explain to me when you will take them," he asked, his voice dangerously low.

Kim had a feeling she knew the correct answer, but before she could say anything, Ron replied, his tone clueless, "When we get back?"

Kim cringed.

"TODAY – NOW – FIVE MINUTES! STUDY!" he shouted, clearly aggravated.

"Does that mean we can go to Luxembourg?"

"More importantly, Stoppable," Mr. Barkin started, his voice mellowing out, "do you know the chief export of Luxembourg?"

Hesitating, clearly not understanding the relevance, Ron replied, "Uh, no, why?"

"Because that's question 56 on the World Geography quiz you're taking in four and a half minutes." Giving a smile Kim could only describe as sinister, he turned to her. "I thought I'd start you off with something easy, Possible, as you go globe-trotting like it's going to the movies." He paused for a second before continuing. "To extend my personal and professional courtesy to your mother," he began, his voice sounding rather bored, "I decided to allow you permission for this so-called important mission. I'll give you your homework at the end of the day after the tests and they're to be turned in as soon as you get back, no excuses. Now go and study for the maybe three minutes you have left."

Pulling Ron away before he could put his foot in his mouth again, that's exactly what they did, starting one of the most hectic school days she's ever had that didn't involve a side-effect of some mission or being interrupted by some villain. After suffering through three grueling tests, they were allowed to eat lunch, though only for ten minutes (Rufus surely would have stayed with Monique for more food if Ron hadn't grumpily shoved him back in his pocket). Finishing off the tests and getting four days of homework ("No problem, Stoppable, if you're lucky you'll get it done in three days") concluded their academic portion of her day. Hating Wade more than ever, she and Ron walked down the halls to her locker.

"KP, the mythology of Roman Gods and Ancient Greece were part of the same civilization, right?"

"Uh, Ron, Ancient Greece is a civilization," Kim said, secretly dreading the test scores he'd receive.

"Oh, right," Ron replied, then stopped moving forward, the words sinking in. "Ohhhh, see, that's why the question made no sense. Yeah, let's hope that part's not graded."

"The second essay?"

"Yeah."

"The second of only two?"

"Not sure where you're going with this, KP."

"Ugh," exclaimed Kim. "Ron, that was worth half the total amount of points."

"Yeah, so I'm hoping the other half is worth more."

Slamming her head lightly on her locker upon reaching it, moaning, Kim felt her patience waning. "Ron, you had better ace all of this h-work we got if you want to pass your classes."

Frowning, he gazed at her with a serious look in his eyes, not generally common for Ron, and Kim instantly felt bad about scolding him. "I know, KP, I just don't feel too great today. Let's face it; I probably failed most of the tests. It sucks." Closing his eyes, he leaned against the locker adjacent to Kim's. He let out a long-winded sigh.

"Hey, champ, come on," Kim said, in hopes of trying to cheer him up, realizing that it wasn't likely to work. "I know today sucked, you think I passed all of my tests," she asked, knowing almost certainly she did, though some just barely. "Don't be so hard on yourself. Forget today and think about tomorrow." Kim placed her hand on his shoulder. "It'll just be you and me in Luxembourg, eating whatever baked goods this guy made."

At the mention of baked goods, Rufus jumped out of Ron's pocket, climbed to his shoulder and onto Kim's hand. "Mhmm! Yummy!"

"Well, you, me, and Rufus," Kim amended.

Ron opened his eyes and his face lit up, as optimistic as ever. "Yeah, KP," his voice began to rise; he started to sound excited, "you're right. It'll be badical!" Virtually yelling the last word, those nearby glanced at them strangely.

"Yeah, cool, I know, now hush," Kim said gently, playfully moving her hand off his shoulder and placing it on his mouth. The gaze they shared, while short, made Kim's insides bubble. Rufus got bored with the momentary silence and dived back into Ron's pants, causing him to lose his focus and look away, dropping his eyes. Kim followed suit, quickly opening her locker, hoping she wasn't blushing too badly.

"Hey there, Kim. You okay, you look flustered," Wade asked from the monitor in her locker.

"Uh, yeah, no big. Got more details on the mission? I thought you might have talked to me a little yesterday, but you never beeped me." Though her stomach still felt fluttery, she tried hard to force it out of her mind and focus on the upcoming mission.

"Yeah, sorry about that. I was just setting everything up and by the time I was done I didn't really think I should bother you. It was pretty late," Wade confessed. Re-reading something off the monitor in front of him, he told her the necessary information she needed. "Your ride is going to pick you up in your front lawn around 5:30 today. It's a bit of a flight time-wise, and Luxembourg's already six hours ahead of us, so you'll get there pretty late, but Trotzer promises to be up despite the time to welcome you. That good? It gives you time to pack if you didn't pack yesterday."

"Yeah, okay, thanks Wade, we'll be there." Kim grabbed a large portion of books from her locker and shut the door, telling Ron it'd be stupid to bring two sets of the same books, to which Ron nodded solemnly.

Peering over at Ron closely, Kim saw he looked, well, off again, for lack of a better term.

His former cheery disposition has disappeared, and he wore a contemplative frown, his eyes not focused on anything particular, but glazed over. Kim randomly thought of an owl.

God, Ron, mood shift much? Before she said something, Ron said, shaking his head first as if clearing his mind of particularly burdensome thoughts, "Hey Kim, I'll go put my books away in my locker while you go talk to Bonnie, okay?"

"What happened to restraining me from attacking her," Kim said in jest, hoping to make him grin again. He didn't.

"Oh, c'mon, you can deal with Bonnie just as well without me," he said, sounding slightly worried. "Besides, you know, Bonnie never liked me much, and –"

Kim's laugh cut him off. "Ron, Bonnie doesn't like anyone much, it's nothing new." She sighed, asking, "Is she being even ruder to you than usual?"

"I can take it," Ron snorted indignantly, though strangely sounded satisfied; "I just don't feel like taking it today."

"Sure, fine, whatever," she said, rolling her eyes. "I'll be back in five."

She began striding toward the gym.

What was that? Even though Bonnie's always deriding him, I thought it went in one ear and out the other. Is that his ish? Bonnie? A small growl emitted from her throat. Kim stormed toward the locker room, walking in, finding the girls getting ready for practice in various states of undress.

"Late much, K," asked Bonnie, mockingly.

"We need to talk, Bonnie," Kim said, grabbing her arm and pulling her away.

"Hey, let me put my top on first!" Bonnie shrieked, causing other girls to look at them.

"So not the drama, this is urgent," she said, looking bitterly at her rival.

Crossing her arms over her chest, Bonnie flipped her hair. "Kay, whatever, what?"

"I have a mission and I'll be gone 'til Friday probably. I'm giving you command of the squad," the redhead grumbled, hating every word.

Bonnie, though visibly shocked, composed herself quickly. "Sure thing, K, I'll show everyone how much better a leader I am," she said, smirking.

"Kay, so not," started Kim angrily but kept her voice low so the other girls couldn't hear, "I'm choosing you 'cause you're just rude and bossy enough to maybe make an okay leader on short notice. Hope's not assertive enough, Tara's game has been off recently, Crystal's too average to take point, need I go on?"

"Fine, whatever," Bonnie said, now looking bored with these proceedings.

"Shut it, I'm not done," Kim said, leaving Bonnie looking pissed off. "You'll do only the cheers we talked about. Don't add any of your so-called better moves to anything. If one thing is different when we get back, I don't care how popular you are, I'll throw you off the squad."

"Damn it, fine, I'll follow your stupid routines," Bonnie sneered. She paused a second, then her eyes lit up, as if she just thought of something. "You said 'we.' Is the loser going with you?" Hearing Bonnie refer to Ron in her negative, albeit normal, way, and having had just left a dispirited Ron, Kim almost slapped her.

"Yes, Bonnie, he's coming with me. Lay off him, okay?"

"Better idea: how about leaving the loser wherever you're going, 'cause no one here likes him anyway," Bonnie said, laughing.

BOOM!

Kim shoved Bonnie against the wall so hard the brunette groaned. "I mean it, leave Ron alone starting Friday. I am so done with your 'I'm better than everyone' attitude. Ron's a better person than you could ever dream of being. Now put your uniform on, you're holding up the squad, Captain."

Letting go of her arms, Kim walked away at a quick pace, not in the least interested in hearing Bonnie call her names.

That bitch, if she so much as looks at Ron the wrong way again, I'll kick her ass off the squad in a second.

Rushing past a confused group of cheerleaders, hoping to get back to Ron quickly, she felt a hand grab her shoulder.

"What!" Kim yelled, turning around, but instead of seeing Bonnie, she saw a blonde-haired girl, who recoiled in surprise. "Oh, sorry, Tara," Kim said. "Didn't know it was you. What is it?"

"That's fine. Where are you going," Tara asked meekly, gazing down with a look in her face Kim couldn't place.

"Ron and I have a mission that'll last a few days, and Bonnie's covering for me until we get back." Kim turned and made to walk toward the gym doors.

"Wait, Ron won't be at practice today," Tara spoke up, looking at Kim.

I so do not have time for this.

"No, Tara, like I said, he'll be with me. We'll be back Friday." Not noticing the blonde's face looking downcast, Kim turned around again and walked out of the gym, still deeply aggravated.

After the walk home with an angry Kim, Ron was happy to get inside his house without having to worry about irritating her further. Though she and Bonnie hated each other with a passion, this seemed, to Ron's limited grasp on the concept of female drama, to be more serious. Case in point, Kim didn't rapidly rant about Bonnie on the way home, she just walked on his side, fuming silently, not even noticing when he said he'd see her later that day when he dropped her off at her door.

Stepping into his room, he felt Rufus (who was hiding in Ron's pocket the whole time, worried Kim would explode) crawl up his arm to his shoulder, shrugging his small frame when Ron looked at him in confusion of what was going on with his best friend. The naked mole-rat jumped onto Ron's bed as his owner sat down in the chair in front of his desk.

His stuff was packed already. He did that late last night after talking with Kim. It was no fun as his muscles were already strained from all the housework he did, but he knew he probably wouldn't have time the following day. His mother was out at the moment, possibly shopping, so she wouldn't be able to say goodbye to him before he left, but Ron didn't mind all that much. His father, however, was home, which was good because Ron still needed to ask him to borrow something.

Dragging an over-sized suitcase out of the closet and into the hallway to make moving it later a little easier, Ron thought about Luxembourg, being around Kim for the whole week, and his personal problems, all three of which were popular topics on his mind in recent times.

Should I call her now? Nah, she'd still be busy. It hasn't been that long since we left. He shifted his gaze over to the clock and saw that he didn't have to be at Kim's house for another hour and a half. Well, I could always talk to Dad. I need to figure out how to ask him about the book, anyways. Shuffling to his father's study, he considered the positive effects of being able to relax in Luxembourg and not having to deal with any of the drama at home. He knocked on the door to his father's private room.

"Come in, son," his father's voice said, coming through the door. Ron complied.

"Mom, it's so not necessary," the red-headed girl said, crossing her arms over her chest.

"Kim," Mrs. Possible replied sternly, "you'll be gone for at least three days, the least you can do is say goodbye to your brothers."

"But Mom, the Tweebs don't care whether or not I say goodbye, so it really doesn't matter," she said, trying to appeal to her mother's logical sense, which didn't work in this case.

"Kimberly Ann Possible, go say goodbye to your brothers. Then afterwards you can get your bags from upstairs and bring them down, and say farewell to your father," her mother demanded, and added when Kim didn't move, "this is not a suggestion, Kim. Please do it now."

This is so not fair, Kim thought, who turned from her mother and began the short walk to the twins' room. Barging in without knocking, she said, the annoyance in her tone clear, "Tweebs, I'm off to Luxembourg, don't be here when I get back."

Ignoring the latter of her statement, Tim replied "Okay, be sure to pick up a multi-directional jamming array. Dr. Ernsdorf's prototype is on display somewhere in Grevenmacher."

Jim looked over at his brother, confusion on his face, and asked, "Nah, you sure you want that? I heard there were major flaws in the aerial input/output schematic design."

"Yeah, so we can improve on it," Tim replied, rolling his eyes, "duh."

"Hoo-sha," Jim said, high-fiving his brother.

"Ugh," Kim exclaimed, "so not doing that. Don't blow up the house, please." She turned to walk out of the room, ignoring the retorts about not having enough rocket fuel for that. Okay, I have to be outside in around 20 minutes for my ride. Saying goodbye to my parents shouldn't take too long. Should I call Ron?

She doubted Ron forgot the time to meet, but then again, she didn't remember saying much to him on the walk home as she was preoccupied with thoughts on what Bonnie said. Actually, now that she thought about it, she didn't recall saying a single word to him, but she supposed she at least said goodbye. What Bonnie said, though tame for her as far as her insults go, really got to her, and it wasn't until 30 minutes after Kim got home that she finally cooled down. I should probably call and apologize, even though it's not my fault. I don't want this long mission to start off with him thinking I'm mad at him.

Reaching her room, she grabbed the phone and dialed his number, more than just a little put out when the busy signal was all she could hear. His parents could have waited a little longer before calling anybody, Kim thought, slamming the receiver down and violently grabbing the one suitcase. Rolling it down the hallway after placing her duffle bag on her shoulders, she now had everything luggage-wise. She reached the dining room where just an hour prior she had an early dinner. Her father was chatting with her mother, not noticing her entrance until she coughed lightly in her hand.

"Ah, Kimmie-cub, come and sit down," her father said, patting an empty chair next to him.

"I, um, don't really have the time. My ride's going to be here in five minutes and I don't think I should make them wait."

"That's my Kimmie, always cordial and polite," Mr. Possible commented, a charming smile on his face.

Her mother, on the other hand, wore a worrying countenance. "Kim, if you need us for anything, don't be afraid to have Wade patch you through at any time. Also, take care of Ron, Kimmie. He's not," her mother paused, perhaps looking for a polite way to word her statement, "well, strong like you. Just try and make sure he stays safe."

She stopped talking all of the sudden, looking as if she wanted to say something more, but before she had the chance, Kim hugged her tightly.

"I'll miss you, Mom, but you know I have to do this." It's only going to be a week at most, she knew, so why is it so hard to leave?

Her mother slowly stroked Kim's hair. "You'll be fine, Kim, you always are. Just remember to be careful."

"Yeah," Kim replied, letting her mother go, "I will. 'Kay, Mom, see you later." Shifting over to her father, she pulled him into a quick but affectionate hug.

"Kimmie-cub, you'll be back here before you know it. Who knows, you might even enjoy Luxembourg. There's a lot of beautiful scenery," her father said in a comforting tone.

"Eh, I may not have a lot of time, you know, with the homework and protecting and all, but thanks." She let him go and walked to the front door, opened it, and looked back.

"Have a great time, Kimmie," her father said, waving alongside his wife. Giving them a weak smile, Kim Possible stepped outside into the night.