As they left the Beach, Ricky fumed at his, now, older brother. He tried to grab the Chronivac, but Max got Ricky in trouble.
Ricky was scolded by his parents to leave Max's belongings alone.
Ricky was still sulking as they walked into the Hotel lobby. His former father, now mother, made sure to keep an eye on him. She warned him when he was caught looking at Max
"I told you to stop antagonizing your brother, young lady," said Gina sternly.
Seeing Max smirk set Ricky off. "I'm not going to stop. He's the prick who started it." Gina became furious and grabbed Ricky by the ear, "That's enough! I know your angry at your brother, but I won't tolerate that sort of language." Ricky sputtered, "I-But-He..."
"Save it! Since you don't know when to stop, you're grounded when get home. Now be a good girl and be silent."
Ricky looked at his father, his eyes pleading. "You listen to your mother," he said.
At the reception desk the woman behind the counter returned with their room key. "Here's your key," she said pleasantly. Before they could leave, however, the receptionist asked, "May I ask you a question, ma'am?" Your mother agreed to humor her. I couldn't help to overhear you scolding your daughter. How old is she?" "She's eleven, why?" "She's at that age where her hormones are active. It could explain her behavior."
Ricky went white. He would undergo Puberty as a girl if Max left him this way. His fears were realized when he heard Max snickering.
His mother became sympathetic, "I forgot how difficult it can be to control your feelings at your age. We can talk about it any time you like ."
Ricky was in a trance all the way to their room. He was too stunned to get mad.