Hey everyone! I told you I'd get back this story! Instead of blabbering about the reason it's taken me 4 years to get back to this story, I instead will post a link to a video, explaining everything, along with what I plan to do with this entire story! Well, I think you guys have waited far too long for an update, so I'll hush up now, and let you read onward! To those who have stuck around, thank you for your patience :) Alright, on with the story!

The trip back to the Enterprise Estate was long and hard for the Chipmunks and the Chipettes, their emotions running wild and uncontrollably. Simon had tried to remain as composed as possible to assure Theodore that they'd get Alvin back to safety one way or another, but despite his efforts, he couldn't hold back the tears and worry for his brother. Even though the two bickered on a constant basis, they were still brothers, and nothing would ever change that.

Even Dave mourned for his adopted son, despite all that Alvin had caused him. From breaking a large number of his bones at the charity concert, getting him stuck on an island with a pelican-suited Ian Hawke, and nearly thrown off a plane, he still loved Alvin just as much as he did Simon, Theodore, and the girls. To even think that Alvin was in a perilous situation, caused his heart to skip beats.

However, the one who took it hardest, was Brittany. Once back at the estate, Brittany had wandered off on her own, more than likely to be alone and clear her thoughts. She had stated that she was only going to the estate's garden, but Jeanette followed her to be sure. She knew exactly what her sister was going through, and knew it was best to give her sibling time to herself. Right then, Brittany's mind was a mixture between a rollercoaster and a maze of mixed emotions.

While Brittany dealt with her dilemma, the remaining Chipmunks and Chipettes, along with Dave, resorted to coming up with a plan to get Alvin back, even though this would be far more of a challenge than escaping a cage or building a raft to avoid being killed by a volcano. Dave was slightly surprised that an estate existed that was run by chipmunks, especially one as secluded as Sophia.

It was certainly surprising, seeing Dave had only accepted his boys as a way to get "big" in the industry as a music producer, but through much turmoil had found that he had grown attached to the three as more than a product for fame. The Chipettes had come from an orphanage seeking fame, and in the end were just given a place to live, until they could find some sort of home to live in.

The fact there were more talking chipmunks in the world gave Dave a bit more of a different view on the world. Just how many more chipmunks were out there that were like his boys and girls? He wasn't sure if he wanted to know that answer or not.

As the door to the elevator opened, revealing the penthouse once again, Sophia stood with her paws behind her back, in front of the desk. Her face wore a look of sympathy, as all of the occupants of the elevator stepped out of the elevator, into the room. Ashly was the first to approach Sophia, standing before her with a bold expression. However, Sophia was the first to speak out.

"You don't have to say anything, sis," Sophia said in a stern and sympathetic voice. "James already told me everything. Its not your fault. It's nobody's fault what happened."

Ashly hung her head, which wasn't a common action for her. Normally she was headstrong and as stubborn as a mule, given her rebellious and mischievous personality. It was clear that she didn't like to fail, but failure wasn't a crime nor sin. To assure her sister that she was serious, Sophia lifted Ashly's head slowly, until they were practically eye-to-eye.

Ashly didn't speak, only spoke with her expression of a smile, and a stare that spoke assurance. The smile was short-lived, as she turned to the rest of the group.

"Don't worry, we'll get Alvin back," assured Ashly, her voice stern yet calm. "For now, it's probably best you all just take it easy for now, until we figure out something."

"And how long will that be?!" Theodore snapped out of his sadness and worry. "What if it's too late by the time you come up with a plan?!"

Ashly didn't retort, knowing Theodore's anger was mainly out of worry for his brother's safety. Simon took the initiative.

"Let me handle this," Simon said, grabbing Theodore and leading him out of the room, into the elevator.

He pushed the button labelled "1," and allowed the elevator to lead to them to the first floor. On the trip down, Simon comforted his youngest brother in an embrace, knowing he had to be strong for Theodore. After about thirty seconds, the elevator came to the bottom floor, a ding following the arrival. Once the doors opened, Simon and Theodore stepped out, and took a seat on a nearby couch.

Theodore continued to sob, the tears staining Simon's blue hoodie. He gave Theodore a minute to just let all of his tears out, continuing to hold his brother tight, until finally, Theodore was stable enough to speak on what had happened in the Penthouse. However, just as Simon went to speak, Theodore spoke for himself.

"I'm sorry that I yelled," apologized the young chipmunk.

Simon placed both paws on his brother's shoulders, his expression sympathetic and understanding.

"No need to apologize Theodore," Simon said softly, a ping of emotion in his voice. "You've been through so much lately. We all have. It's only normal that you react that way. Everybody's emotions break at some point."

Theodore's head turned to face Simon's gaze, a frown on his face, along with bloodshot and puffy eyes. He sniffed a couple times before responding to his brother.

"Really?" He responded with confusion and uncertainty.

"Yes, Theodore," Simon assured calmly. "You know when Dave yells at Alvin, and it seems like Dave is fed up with Alvin's shenanigans?"

Theodore nodded in response.

"Well, that kinda the same thing as this," Simon assured. " Dave may seem like he doesn't care, but he does. Sure, Alvin can be childish and troublesome, but no matter what, Dave would do anything to protect Alvin. You are sad, upset, and worried for Alvin, and on top of that, I haven't been the best brother lately."

That statement caused Theodore's ears to perk up, noticing that Simon's composure had begun to falter like a stone descending into an endless trench. Now, it was his turn to be the strong one.

"Simon, what are you talking about?" Theodore questioned with concern. "If it weren't for you, we wouldn't even be here in the first place. It's because of you and giving all of us hope that we could make it that we are still here."

Simon continued to hold his expression, only falling more and more.

"Yes, but in the past days, instead of being concerned about your feelings and helping you like a brother should, I've been more concerned about myself!"

Simon's voice had escalated quickly, causing Theodore to jump in surprise.

"He's there taunting me, laughing at me, and just haunting my dreams every single night! I can't escape him, and the more I worry about him, the less I take my own brother's concerns into mind! I feel like I'm failing everyone, when I know I'm not, but I just can't shake it, knowing he's there in my mind and soul!"

At this point Simon had fallen to an emotional state in his outbursts, and Theodore immediately knew who "he" was. He had seen it affect Simon ever since escaping the island.

"You're talking about Simone, are you?" Theodore stated, noticing his brother jump at the mentioning of the name of his alter ego personality.

Simon was shocked more than anything, as he wiped his tears away, his eyes wide in bewilderment.

"How did you-

Simon was interrupted quickly.

"I've know for awhile, Simon. We all have. We've heard you talk in your sleep about him, noticed you seem froze at points when we mention what happened on the island, and you've been more distant than usual since the International Music Awards, especially to Jeanette."

Simon's face fell pale and his blood ran ice cold at the mentioning of Jeanette.

"I have?" Simon replied in confusion.

"Yeah. Jeanette has told us how you seem somewhat "reluctant" to even be near her at all. She figured it was mild...

Theodore couldn't remember the word Jeanette had used, so Simon settled Theodore's confusion.

"Trauma?" Simon confirmed

"Yeah, that!" Theodore exclaimed in response.

Simon knew he was cornered, and knew he had to explain himself. He took a deep breath and sighed heavily.

"It's just... Simone was brave and fearless. I'm nothing like that. I'm nothing like what Jeanette wants. She deserves much better than me, the smart one that cowers at the dumbest things."

Theodore gave his brother a look of understanding. He could understand why Simon felt this way, but at the same time, knew what he had to say in return to assure his brother that his thoughts were far from the truth.

"Simon, would Jeanette be worried about you if she didn't want to be with you?" Theodore claimed directly.

Simon paused, taking in everything his brother had just said with a bitter taste.

"Well, no, bu-

"Then why are you even thinking Jeanette doesn't want to be with you?" Theodore stated with high integrity.

Simon searched for an answer to that question, but nothing came, and the reason why, was because Theodore had hit the nail right on the head.

"She loves you, Simon. Trust me. When you aren't around, you're the only thing she talks about."

"Really?" Simon asked in shock.

"Definitely," Theodore finalized. "Simone may be a part of you, Simon, but Jeanette loves you and you only."

Theodore paused a moment, allowing Simon to process those words. Simon's face started with an uprising frown, then to an unsure look, and finally to a warm smile.

"Thank you, Theodore," Simon assured, giving his brother a hug.

Theodore returned the hug with a smile, as he mumbled out words that assured Simon that Theodore was going to be fine.

"It's good to have you back, Simon."

The night was still, like time had stopped and the only remaining sound within it was the chirping of crickets. Brittany sat on the base of a wooden fence post, staring endlessly into the night and the distant view of Las Vegas's strip. Her thoughts were spiraling, and her emotions had gone quiet for now. She had been in the same position for nearly two hours, completely lost on many things, and for once, it wasn't anything to do with her.

It wasn't what outfit she had chosen to wear, what style her hair was in, or even if she seemed presentable. No. She was lost on why she had done what she did at the warehouse. She had kissed Alvin Seville, and she had no idea why. Was it an act of fear? Desperation? The fact that she may never see him ever again? She had no idea.

Out of worry and curiosity, Jeanette had decided to join her oldest sibling in the mix of her emotions. She had intended to just check on her, but once Jeanette had caught eye of Brittany's state, she knew that it was time to talk. Jeanette hopped onto the fence post, keeping her distance. Brittany jumped at Jeanette's sudden intrusion.

"What do you want, Jean?" Brittany said sternly, not turning her gaze from the night sky.

"Britt, you know why I'm here," Jeanette replied, her voice stern and straightforward.

Brittany sighed in response, turning her gaze to Jeanette. She didn't retort in a nasty manner, but instead, scooted over to give Jeanette a place to site beside her. Jeanette took the offering in kind, then took a seat next to Brittany.

"Mind telling me what happened back there?" Jeanette started.

Brittany lowered her head, her eyes speaking worry and sadness.

"I don't know, Jean," Brittany replied in an uncertain tone. "I just did it."

"No Britt. You know exactly why you did it. You are just too stubborn to admit it," Jeanette said, her gaze meeting Brittany's.

"No! Y-you're wrong!" Brittany retorted in anger. "I just tripped, and happened to collapse right into where my lips met his! I can't! I can't possibly-

"BRITT! STOP DENYING IT! IT'S DEAD OBVIOUS WHY YOU KISSED ALVIN!"

Brittany jumped suddenly at Jeanette's outburst, having never heard her sister speak so angrily or as tempered as she had.

"N-no! You're w-wrong-

"ADMIT IT!" Jeanette commanded.

"No!"

"ADMIT IT!"

"No!"

"ADMIT IT!"

"NO!"

"ADMIT IT!"

Brittany couldn't fight anymore, so she gave up all denial, and in her highest voice, burst out all that she had held back for so long.

"Alright! I love him!" Brittany admitted, letting her emotions take hold, as she collapsed into Jeanette's chest.

Jeanette pulled her sister close, rubbing her back slowly, as she continued to speak in between her crying.

"I've loved him ever since he saved us from Ian! He may be a big jerk at times, but that's what I love about him! I was the one that grabbed his paw at the resort! After all that had happened, I just wanted to be with him, so when Sam took him from us, I just had to show him in some way that I loved him!"

Jeanette didn't respond and just allowed Brittany to speak, continuing to comfort her in a sisterly manner. After many minutes of crying and confessions that Jeanette had already seen coming, Brittany finally calmed herself.

"Then why don't you tell that to Alvin?" Jeanette questioned.

"Jean, you know how I am! Plus, what if he doesn't think the same and I become the laughingstock of West Eastman or worse, HOLLYWOOD!?"

"Britt, do you seriously think Alvin would allow you to grab his paw, and that he wouldn't notice?" Jeanette stated. "I think there's more to the truth behind what happened at the resort than you may believe. Also, why do you think he continues to tease and joke with you all the time?"

"Because he's a jerk, that's why!" Brittany replied quickly.

"No Britt, it's because he knows you enjoy attention, and while it may not he the most "nice" way of showing attention, he knows you like it, and it's his own way of showing he cares," Jeanette explained.

Brittany bumbled with her words, then thought deep about Jeanette's statement. It made complete sense. The sudden realization that Alvin had always cared for her had caused her to blush. Jeanette giggled at Brittany's sudden epiphany, and stood up. Brittany followed, then composed herself, even though her blush remained. Jeanette decided to break the silence.

"Feel better?" Jeanette asked, putting her paw on her sister's shoulder.

"Much better, thanks Jean," Brittany replied, a bright smile in her face.

"Don't thank me yet. We still have to come up with a plan to find Alvin."

"Oh. Right."

Brittany's happiness dimmed a little, but it still remained visible, as she followed Jeanette back into the mansion.

Another hour passed, and while Dave remained wide awake, the other five had decided to get some much-needed rest. All five slept side by side, while Dave watched television, awaiting any updates on the situation with Alvin. He refrained from watching anything animal-related, as that only made him worry even more about Alvin.

Hours passed by that felt like centuries, then out of nowhere, the front doors to the estate opened, entering James. He seemed unphased, despite the time being around 5:00 A.M. The brute chipmunk walked past Dave, but while walking, spoke a quick set of words. Words that made Dave jump to attention in a mild frenzy.

"Wake them up. I figured out how we are going to get Alvin back."

Dave wasted no time, and woke up the five chipmunks fast asleep right next to him. All five were dreary at first, but once they remembered what had happened and how they had gotten there in the first place, they were up and at it quickly.

They followed James into the elevator, and up to the Penthouse, where Sophia sat in the chair with Ashly assisting her in something to do with mapping, considering the vast amount of maps rolled out on the desk.

"It's about time, James!" Ashly objected in annoyance. "Where have you been for five hours!?"

"Tracking," James replied monotonous. "I wasn't spotted by anyone, so I figured I'd track their vehicle to the place where Alvin was taken. He's being held in a hangar just outside of Las Vegas. If we want to save Alvin, we need to move quick, because they're using a cargo plane to take him somewhere. I don't know where."

A small bit of hope and confidence flowed throughout Dave, the Chipmunks and the Chipettes, happy to know where Alvin was. However, the fact that time was not on their side sprung up a small amount of panic as well.

"I'll prepare everything," claimed Sophia. "You'll need to be stealthy, as the first sign of attention will probably mean an immediate evacuation, and if that happens, we will have lost our opportunity."

"Don't worry sis," Ashly said suddenly. "We won't fail again. I'll make sure of it."

Sophia gave a smile of confidence, then turned to James.

"Give me the coordinates for the hangar. That way I can help you from here, by keeping you out of sight of whatever security this guy is using," Sophia clarified. "As for the rest of you. Get ready, and be quick."

All six agreed, then followed James to be suited up for the last time. They had only one opportunity. One chance to save Alvin. One mission. Failure not an option.

It's getting down to the wire! Will James and Ashly be able to save Alvin from Sam and his goons?! Find out in the next chapter, coming soon! And I promise, it won't be 4 years until the next update! Also as promised, here's the link to the video that explains why it took 4 yrs in the first place to get back to this fic!

Video is linked on my profile wall!