The cross-questioning is forgotten and I can enjoy my burger in peace. We happily munching on our burgers when Nate jumps up and says, "Everyone, I would like permission for Eben to sit in on our band practices,"

Stace, Li and I immediately stop eating. 'No outsiders allowed' was our first rule. 

He continues, "Come on, I get lonely being the only male and too much estrogen in one space is not good for my wellbeing," We continue staring at him.

He turns to Eben exasperated, "See what I mean? They totally ignoring me and they call themselves friends," 

Eben smiles and replies, "I can respect the level of solidarity, it's very admirable,"

We huddle together, our backs facing the boys. I mentally block out everyone and zoom in on the task at hand.

I start the discussion and ask, "What do you think? It's quite a serious request from Nate," 

"Eben gives off a good vibe. I like him," Stace responds.

"I know sometimes Nate can be bit cuckoo, I mean we experienced his dodgy mental behavior before," she laughs. "Having said that, I doubt that's the case here, he is legit just craving male company," Li adds.

We nod in agreement. I ask, "So I have a suggestion, let's run it for a month, like a trial period and then make our final decision?"

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They both nod in agreement.

We turn back to the boys and Eben gives me a puzzled look. Am I supposed to know what that means? Hey, I'm not the mind reader here. We allow our spokesperson, Stace, to deliver the verdict.

She begins, "After careful consideration, we have come --"

Nate interrupts and impatiently says, "Stace, get to the point, you --"

"Quiet!" she slams her hand on the table, causing a vibrating effect and stares him down, "I DO NOT appreciate the condescending tone you are using right now," Li and I exchange a knowing look. We can always rely on Stace to deliver a sterling theatrical performance. Right now, she's playing the role of crazy Judge Stace, entertaining indeed.

Nate stops himself from saying something he'll regret later. The look on his face is priceless. We cover our mouths to stop the laughter from escaping.

"I apologize for the abrupt pause in delivering the verdict... " she gives him another fierce glare, "We analyzed the scenario from all angles and reached an agreement. We allowing Eben to attend our practices on the following conditions; he will not comment on any song structure, selection or music compositions. However, we permit endless compliments," she smiles. "Do you agree to these conditions?" she asks.

"I agree, Judge Stacy," he replies in all seriousness.

"We, the goddesses of NAS-L, grant you access to our sacred practices. After a month has passed, we will reach our final decision, courtroom adjourned!" she exclaims, raising her fist in the air.

Eben lets out the breath he was holding and says, "That was quite intense,"

Nate asks, "Seriously Stace, why must you always be so extra?"

Stace bats her lashes and sweetly replies, "Aaaw Nate, you acting like an ungrateful little boy. We can easily revoke our decision," she shrugs.

"I'm very happy with your decision. Thank you, Judge Stace," he quickly recovers.

"That's more like it," she replies, patting the top of his head.

We laugh as we exit MacDonald's.