Mirabel knew the basics of her family's history, but there was so much that she still didn't know about her mother's side. Like her great abuela and abuelo. She was told a little about them, but not enough. She was curious about them, she wanted to know more. She wanted to know how they were like, how did they meet, what were their stories. All she really knew was that her abuela was a strong, resilient woman who had a deep love for her family, and her abuelo was a hardworking man who took pride in providing for his loved ones. But she longed to learn more about their lives and the experiences that shaped them into the people they were.

And lucky for her, she was going to have a good reason to dig deeper into her family's history to find out more.

"The Statue of Liberty, the Great Lady of New York, has been speaking loud and clear since 1885. Anybody know what she's trying to say? Maya?" Mr. Matthews inquired, glancing at the blonde, who just smiled back at him.

"Should I just talk?" Farkle asked.

"No, I'm sick of people thinking Farkle's smarter than I am." Maya grumbled. 

Riley grins. "Here comes fun." Mirabel chuckled, watching as Maya turned to Farkle.

"Name one thing about the Statue of Liberty that you know that I don't." Farkle suggests.
"She was a gift of friendship from..."

"C-Cathy." Maya interrupted him.

"We got her right after...." He continued, but Maya cut him off again.

"Cathy didn't want her anymore."

"What does she stand for?" Farkle asked the blonde, a hint of amusement shining in his eyes.

"Because Cathy took her chair." Maya replied in an obvious tone. Mirabel stifled a giggle, watching with amusement.

"Boy, that Cathy, huh? What a hoot." Farkle remarked.

"She's not real, genius. I made her up." Maya scoffs. "I'm so smarter than you."

"You are. You really are." Farkle went along with it, smiling with amusement when Maya raised her eyebrows and grinned at him with a smug look on her face.

"Welcome to Cultural Week, people." Mr. Matthews said with a small chuckle. "The school is throwing a cultural fair to celebrate who we are and where we came from. Anybody here taking a part?"

A few hands are raised and Mr. Matthews points at Nigel. "My grandma's gonna have a booth at the fair, Mr. Matthews." Nigel explained with a smile.

"That's great, Nigel. What culture will you be celebrating?" Mr. Matthews asked him.

"She was originally from Cambodia, she escaped and lived in the Philippines, then she came here." Nigel replied.

"Did you know that about him?" Riley questioned, glancing back at Maya with furrowed eyebrows.

"It surprises me when any of these guys talk." Maya answered, gesturing to the people around them and in the back of the classroom.

"And that's exactly what makes America so unique. We all come from exotic locales with fascinating traditions." Mr. Matthews spoke.

Riley perks up at that. "Well, where are we from?"

"Philly."

"What's our fascinating tradition?" Riley asked him.

"Cream cheese." Mr. Matthews smiled.

Riley stares at him with disbelief. "So I'm the great lady of cream cheese? I want a better tradition, please."

"Funny you should say that." Mr. Matthews replied.

"Funny, 'haha' funny, or funny," Riley said and then groans. "'yay' funny?"

"Here's your assignment." Mr. Matthews responded, causing most of the class to groan, but Farkle said 'yay' excitedly.

"Everybody look around." As everyone glances around at each other, Mr. Matthews continues. "Do we know each other's stories? Do you know your own? Our stories are what makes us part of a community. I want you to come in tomorrow and share your heritage with us. Share your story."

"Do I even have a story?" Riley pouted.

"You have a wonderful story, Riley." Mr. Matthews assures his daughter. "It's time you found out what it is."

****

When Mirabel got home, she saw her mom was home from work. She had her own company, a very successful land development company that expanded to New York. Which was why they had to move in the first place. Her mom had gotten an offer for an expansion which she couldn't pass up. It meant more money, but also longer hours, especially in the beginning. Her mom's company had done well and it had been expanding a lot. It was a lot to handle, but her mom was managing, just as she always did. Now she had gotten to the point where she didn't need to work that much which she was thankful for. Because then she could spend more time with her daughter and have extra time for herself.

Mirabel smiles as she walked up to her mother, who was sat on the couch with her laptop, working on some papers for work. She leans down and hugs her mom, nuzzling her neck. "Hi, mama. I missed you." Mirabel murmured.

"I missed you too, Mira. How was your day?" Her mother asked her, smiling fondly at her as she looked up from the laptop. She hadn't heard Mirabel walk in, but it was nothing new. Mirabel was always very quiet and light on her feet.

"It was good." Mirabel replies, moving to sit down next to her mother. "I got an assignment to share my heritage with my history class."

"You have a wonderful story to tell, Mira." Beatrix said softly, smiling at her. "Oh, that reminds me, I'm doing a booth at the school's cultural fair this weekend."

"Really?" Mirabel questioned, perking up at that. She was surprised, but she was glad her mom was doing a booth. She was excited to see what her mom would have for the fair.

"Yep. I think it'll be a great way to get people interested in learning about our culture and history." Beatrix replied as she gathered Mirabel's hands in hers. "And it's a chance for you to learn more about our family's heritage too."

Mirabel smiles at her mom's words, feeling a surge of warmth and appreciation for her mother's efforts to connect with their cultural roots. "That sounds amazing, mama. I can't wait to help you with the booth and learn more about our heritage."

Beatrix squeezes Mirabel's hands gently, her eyes shining with love and pride. "I'm so glad you're excited, Mira. Our family's history is rich and beautiful, and I want you to embrace every part of it."

"I will, mama. I'm ready to learn everything about our family's past and celebrate our cultural heritage." Mirabel reassures her mother, smiling brightly at her. "So speaking of that, can you tell me about great abuela and abuelo? And the rest of the family too." She added, looking curious.

"Of course, mija. I'd love to." Beatrix smiled softly, leaning back on the couch as she started to tell her daughter stories about their ancestors.

****

"Okay, here's my story." Riley starts the next day in History class. She stood at the front of the room with Maya. "Once upon a time...Nothing. I'm completely American. My people never even left the house. I'm not even cream cheese. I'm American cheese. I'm individually wrapped. Here I come." She picked up a stack of wrapped slice cheese, throwing them across the classroom at students.

Mirabel chuckles lightly, looking at Riley with amusement as she caught one of the slices. She had a feeling that's not what Riley's story really is. "Oh, that's the worst report ever heard." Mr. Matthews admitted, looking at his daughter with a disappointed look.

"Oh, you don't want one?" Riley asked him, raising her eyebrows.

"No, I do want one." Mr. Matthews replied, looking hopeful.

"You made me this!" Riley pouted, throwing a slice at him that he caught.

"Great news, Maya. Your report couldn't possibly be any worse." Mr. Matthews shrugged.

"You don't know me." Maya chuckles. She pushes herself off the desk that she was leaning against and picks up a green hat off the desk. "Turns out Clutterbucket is Irish! I'm Irish! Know why I'm a short stack of pancakes, Huckleberry?" She asks, looking at Lucas. "'Cause I'm a leprechaun! Here have a potato!" She added, tossing a potato at Yogi, who caught it and looked at it with confusion.

"That's what you brought? Potatoes?" Mr. Matthews inquired with disbelief.

"No, that would be a stereotypical ignorant cliché." Maya mumbles, setting the sack of potatoes she brought with her on the desk. "I also brought our national soap."

"Maya, Ireland has a rich, deep cultural history. You show us something authentic right now!" Mr. Matthews demands. Maya is quiet for a few moments before a bright smile tugged on her lips and she climbs on Yogi's desk to be on her knees. "What are you doing?"

"I'm gonna Riverdance all up on Yogi's head." Maya replied, placing the hat on Yogi's head.

"Do it." Yogi grinned.

"Sit down!" Mr. Matthews stops Maya from Riverdancing and she climbs off the desk to sit down and Riley sat down as well. "Both of you have just squandered an opportunity to show us who you are." He scolds and looks at Lucas and Zay. "Lucas, Zay, show us who you are."

"You sure about this?" Lucas asked nervously as he glanced at Zay.

Mirabel glances over at her boyfriend and Zay, bringing a hand to cover her mouth to stifle a giggle. She still couldn't believe they were dressed up like that. The two boys looked like a typical Texan, bright and colorful button up shirts, ropes, big hats with a star on them, cowboy boots, and small flags. Zay even had a small cow figurine, a mug with Texas on it that had a small stuffed horse in it and small snow globe was on his desk that had the state in it. They both even had big foam fingers. They looked ridiculous and Mirabel still isn't sure how Zay convinced Lucas to go along with his idea, but she knew that there was no way she was going to forget this.

"We look good." Zay smirked. He stood up with Lucas, waving their foam fingers around that read 'don't mess with texas'.

"Texas!" They both said and Mirabel couldn't help but laugh at that.

"I wish I brought my camera." She muttered under her breath.

"Sit down!" Mr. Matthews told the boys, a disappointed look etched on his face.

Lucas turns to Zay with a glare. "You lied to me!" He turns to Mirabel with a pout. "Why didn't you stop us?!"

"I thought it would be fun to watch." Mirabel giggled, grinning at him.

"Not the word I'd use, darlin'." Lucas grumbled. He sat back down, still looking annoyed. Mirabel ignored the butterflies in her stomach at the pet name and chuckled, leaning over to press a kiss to his cheek. His lips twitch into a smile, his hand finding hers and intertwining their fingers together. She smiled shyly at that and turned her attention back to the front of the room. She had a feeling today was going to be a lot of fun. She loved hearing and learning about the cultures that people came from and she couldn't wait to see what everyone had to offer at the fair.

Zay points at Mr. Matthews with his foam finger. "Don't mess with Texas."

"You're not from Texas." Mr. Matthews informs the boys. He glances at Mirabel. "Neither are you."

"I know that, sir." Mirabel reassured him and he looked relieved at that.

"He lived right down the street from me!" Lucas replies with a small frown as he looked confused by what Mr. Matthews meant. "Bel lived right next to me!" He added.

"You're not from Texas either." Mr. Matthews pointed at him.

"He lived right down the street from me." Zay argued.

"Sit down." Mr. Matthews sighed heavily and the boys sat back down.

"Okay, back to us." Riley grinned and glanced at Maya with amusement. Mirabel's eyes widen, surprised to see the blonde now had bagpipes. She sat on the edge of her desk and started playing off key.

"No!" Mr. Matthews exclaims and Maya stops playing with a frown. "Bagpipes are Scottish, not Irish!"

"Potato potato." Maya grumbled, tossing a potato at him. Mirabel giggled and shook her head at her friend. 

Mr. Matthews stares at the potato with furrowed eyebrows. "What a bunch of jerks."

"Daddy!" Riley said, raising her hand to get his attention while Maya sat down.

"Leave me alone!" Mr. Matthews muttered as he put the potato down.

"Daddy?" Riley tried again.

"No!" Mr. Matthews shouted in annoyance, walking over to stand behind his desk, his back facing the students. 

"Daddy?" Riley repeated.

"What?!" Mr. Matthews finally turned to his daughter, looking annoyed.

"You gave me a stupid story, daddy." Riley replied with a frown.

"You all have great stories. That's what makes this world such a peaceful place." Mr. Matthews spoke.

"No, it's not." Lucas cut in. "There's conflicts everywhere."

Mr. Matthews raises his eyebrows. "You mean cultures clash with each other?"

"Yeah." Lucas nods. "All through history."

"Good boy, Lucas." Mr. Matthews smiled, looking impressed.

"Good boy, Lucas." Maya teasingly said, throwing a potato on Lucas' desk. Mirabel giggled at that and looked at her boyfriend with amusement at seeing his annoyed face.

"Maya..." Lucas starts, trying to get her to stop. Maya then tosses an Irish soap bar onto his desk. "Maya!" He rolls his eyes when the bagpipes are tossed on his desk and he glances at Mirabel beside him with a pleading expression. "Mi sol, please get her to stop."

Mirabel giggles and looks at the blonde. "Maya, please leave my poor boyfriend alone." She begged with a slight smile.

"Fine." Maya pouted and turned to the front.

"Thank you, Bel." Lucas sighed, grateful that the blonde finally stopped. He leaned over to kiss her cheek. Her face flushed at that and she looked away to hide her face. Lucas grinned at her reaction. He always thought her flustered expression was adorable.

"There's conflicts 'cause we live in a world full of different kinds of people." Zay spoke up.

"Right." Mr. Matthews agrees. "Unfortunately, people have always feared the other."

"The other what?" Riley asked with confusion.

"The unknown." Mr. Matthews replies. "Anybody who isn't like you. From a different country, a different religion, a different look. And our first reaction to the unknown has always been fear. Farkle?"

"Yes, sir?" Farkle responded.

"Did you do the assignment?" Mr. Matthews inquired.

Farkle nods. "I did, sir."

"Did you find the story of your ancestors?" Mr. Matthews questioned.

"I found something out, sir." Farkle admitted.

"Well, Farkle, at least you have a heritage. I'm Riley McCheese. What could be worse than that?" Riley frowned.

Mirabel sends her a sympathetic look, but she knew there were worse things than that. "There are worse things than that, Riley." Farkle responded.

"You ready to share something with us, Farkle?" Mr. Matthews queried.

"Not yet, sir. I don't have it all yet. I need to dig deeper." Farkle confessed.

Mr. Matthews smiles. "More to discover?"

"A lot more." Farkle agreed.

"That's the only authentic thing that's been said today." Mr. Matthews said softly. "We all need to dig deeper than potatoes and soap and stupid hats."

"How are they stupid hats?" Lucas murmured to Zay.

"They just don't understand us." Zay assured him. Mirabel giggled again at them and rolled her eyes.

"This is a week about discovering who you are. This is a week to understand that culture isn't found at a souvenir shop. Riley, what's culture?" Mr. Matthews asked his daughter.

"Our stories." Riley answered.

Mr. Matthews nods in agreement. "Find yours." He glances at Farkle with a smile. "Find yours." He glances at the class. "Learn from each other. Otherwise, we don't stand a chance."

****

After school that day while the others went to Topanga's, Mirabel decided to go home and keep researching about her family. Mirabel found herself in the attic, searching for some scrapbooks she knew her mom had. It took a bit of time, but she finally found them. The attic was filled with furniture and other things, mostly boxes were there and it was hard to search through them all, especially since the lighting wasn't the best.

Mirabel smiles triumphantly as she finally found the scrapbooks tucked away in a dusty corner. She carefully dusted them off and brought them downstairs to the living room, eager to delve into her family's history. Sitting cross-legged on the floor, she opened the first scrapbook and was immediately transported into another time. She spent hours looking at the old photos and documents, reading the stories and notes from her ancestors that her parents had kept. She was fascinated by the history of her family and the more she learned, the more she wanted to know.

She had a whole new appreciation for her family and their heritage and a renewed sense of pride and curiosity. She wanted to learn more and discover all she could about her family's past and she knew exactly where to start - the family tree. She grabbed a notebook and pen and started jotting down names and dates, adding branches and connections as she went. The process was slow and painstaking, but she didn't mind. She was determined to fill in the gaps and make sure every name was accounted for.

Eventually she finished with the family tree and started looking through the scrapbooks. She found herself captivated by the photos and stories, each one a glimpse into a different time and place. There were notes, letters, newspaper clippings, and even a few artifacts like an old tarnished necklace or a pair of faded gloves. Each piece was a treasure, a tangible link to the past and a reminder of her heritage.

Mirabel hadn't realized what time it was, she had been so caught up in learning about her family that she didn't realize what time it was. She had moved to her room and was now on her bed with scrapbooks in front of her and the family tree she made by her side. She looked up finally when she heard a knock on her balcony doors and saw her boyfriend on the other side, waving at her. A smile formed on her lips as she got up and opened the doors.

"Hey, cowboy." She greeted, blushing when he cupped her face and kissed her.

"Hey, baby." He whispered against her lips and she melted at the pet name.

"I thought you were hanging out with the others?" Mirabel asked as she stepped aside to let him in.

"I was, but then I missed my girlfriend and wanted to see her." Lucas confesses while he walked into her room. "I was worried about you."

"Sorry, I've just been so caught up in doing research and finding out about my family that I didn't realize how much time had passed." Mirabel explained. She was surprised to see it was getting dark outside and that the sun had set. She really lost track of time.

"That's okay, baby. I'm just glad you're alright." Lucas reassures her. She melts again at the pet name, smiling softly at him. "So, find out anything interesting about your family?" He questioned, looking curious. 

"Yeah! C'mere." She grinned, grabbing his hand and leading him over to her bed. He couldn't help but smile fondly at her, letting her drag him over to the bed. He found it adorable how excited she was to share what she found. He noticed scrapbooks scattered on her bed along with her laptop open. He was curious to see what she learned.

She showed him the scrapbooks and the family tree she made and explained everything to him. He listened attentively, his eyes shining with interest as she talked about her family's history. He could see how passionate she was about it and it only made him fall even more in love with her.

"Your family is so fascinating." He comments. "So, you had family that immigrated here? To New York?"

Mirabel nods, smiling. "Yeah, they came here because they wanted a better life. They left everything they knew behind to start a new life here." She looks back at the scrapbook she had in her lap, searching for the people she was talking about. "It was my great-great-great grandparents. They were from Mexico and they were in a group called Bracero Program. It was an agricultural program that allowed Mexican immigrants to come to the United States to work as farm laborers during World War ll because there was a shortage of workers." She pointed at a photo of a young couple, a man and woman standing in front of a small farm house. 

"That's them. Miguel and Rosa Sanchez. They came here with their two children, Maria and Carlos. They had more children, but I didn't see pictures of them yet." She explains. "They lived on a farm in Upstate New York and worked really hard to provide for their family. They were a big part of the Mexican community there and were involved in a lot of local events and organizations. They also helped out their fellow immigrants, giving them a place to stay and helping them adjust to life in America. They were role models and leaders for the community, and their story is a reminder that we all have the potential to make a difference in the world, no matter where we come from."

"That's amazing." Lucas breathes, looking at the picture with admiration. "You're amazing." He added, his eyes gazing at her fondly.

Mirabel's cheeks burned at his words, her heart fluttering at the way he was looking at her. "Thanks, but I'm just sharing their story." She shrugs. "They were the ones who were brave enough to leave everything behind and start a new life. They're the ones who should be admired."

"But you're the one who's telling their story." Lucas insists, taking her hand and squeezing it. "They're a part of you, and you're a part of them. You carry their legacy, their values, and their spirit. And I think that's pretty amazing." He pressed a kiss to her forehead, making her blush even more.

"You're the amazing one." She whispers, leaning in to kiss his cheek. "Thank you for listening to me ramble about my family and acting like you're interested."

"I'm not acting, darlin'. I really am interested." Lucas chuckles, shaking his head. "I'm glad you're sharing this with me. It's a big part of you and I want to know everything about you." He gives her a soft smile, making her feel warm inside. "I'm proud of you and I love you."

"I love you, too." Mirabel replied, her eyes shining with affection for the boy in front of her. She pulled him in for a kiss, letting herself get lost in his touch and the feeling of his lips against hers.

She might not have all the answers yet, but she knows one thing for sure - she's proud to be a part of her family's story, and she's grateful to have someone like Lucas by her side, supporting her and loving her every step of the way.

****

The next day, Mirabel is at the fair with her mom, who had her booth set up. She had helped her set it up earlier, and was now sitting on a stool beside her mom, watching as the fairgoers browsed the wares. Mirabel's eyes scanned the crowd, hoping to spot her friends. She had texted them the night before and told them where her mom's booth was and invited them to come and check it out. At the booth her mom had, it was filled with colorful displays of traditional Mexican crafts and artifacts, from intricate pottery to vibrant textiles. Beatrix had also set up a small slideshow displaying photos of the artists and artisans that had created the pieces, giving a glimpse into the process and the rich culture behind each one. She was a big supporter of her Mexican heritage and was always trying to raise awareness and promote the culture. She often helped organize events like this, and Mirabel was always right there with her, helping out and learning about her roots.

"Thank you for helping me set up the booth, mija." Beatrix said, placing a gentle hand on Mirabel's shoulder. "I couldn't have done it without you."

"No problem, mama." Mirabel smiles, leaning into her mother's touch. "I'm happy to help."

Just then, Mirabel spots her friends making their way through the crowd and towards her mom's booth. Her eyes brightened, seeing them approach. She stood up and smiled at them.

"Hey, guys." She greets. "Are you liking the fair so far?"

"Yeah," Riley admits with a grin. "It's really cool. So many people from all over." She then looks around the booth, admiring the various objects and displays curiously. "So your family is from Mexico?"

Mirabel nods. "My mom's side, yeah." She says with a smile. "My great-great-great grandparents came here apart of the program, the Bracero Program, during World War ll."

"The what?" Maya asked, looking at her with confusion.

Beatrix chuckles lightly. "The Bracero Program was an agreement between the United States and Mexico during World War ll." She explains. "It allowed Mexican workers to travel to the U.S. to work on farms and in other industries to make up for the labor shortage. So, Mirabel's great-great-great grandparents, Miguel and Rosa, and their two kids, Maria and Carlos, were part of that program. They immigrated to New York and settled on a farm upstate. Plus they also helped other immigrants settle in, gave them a place to stay and helped them adjust to life here."

"That must have been hard." Farkle said softly. Mirabel noticed he had been quiet the whole time until then and she sent him a concerned look, hoping he was okay. He was looking at the slideshow intently, watching the images flicker by. "To leave everything behind and start a new life."

"It was, but they were determined to make a better life for themselves and their children." Beatrix replies. "And they did. They worked hard and made a home for themselves here. They were a big part of the Mexican community, helping out their fellow immigrants and being involved in local events and organizations. And their story is a reminder that no matter where you come from, you have the power to make a difference in the world."

Mirabel smiles, feeling a surge of pride for her family. She sees Farkle's expression soften and he nods. "Thanks for sharing that story, Mrs. Florres."

"Of course." Beatrix grins. "I'm always happy to share my family's history. It's a big part of who I am and I'm proud to be a part of it." She smiles at her daughter, wrapping an arm around her shoulders. "And I'm proud to have such a wonderful daughter who carries that legacy and is continuing it."

Mirabel blushes at the praise and looks away shyly, a small smile on her face as her friends smile at them. She couldn't help but notice how Farkle looked a bit more at ease, his posture a bit more relaxed. He still seemed a bit lost in thought, but she hoped that sharing her family's story with him had helped him somehow. "Mexico looks so beautiful." Maya speaks up after looking at the pictures displayed. "The colors, the scenery, the food."

"It really is." Mirabel agrees. "We should all go there one day. My family has a vacation home there and it's so amazing." She said with a smile, her eyes sparkling with excitement.

"Yeah, that'd be fun." Lucas agrees, taking her hand and lacing their fingers together. He glances over at her mom with a small smile. "Would it be alright if we stole her for a bit? We'll have her back later."

"Sure, honey. Go and enjoy yourselves." Beatrix waved them off with a smile.

"Thanks, mom." Mirabel hugged her and kissed her cheek before following her friends, her boyfriend's hand still in hers.

As they walked through the fair, Lucas glanced down at Mirabel, noticing how happy she was. Her eyes were bright as she took in the sights and sounds of the fair. She was like a child at Christmas, her eyes full of wonder and excitement. He couldn't help but smile, her happiness was infectious and he loved seeing her so carefree and full of life.

"So, where do you guys wanna go first?" Mirabel asks as they stopped at a crossroads. There were different paths that led to different parts of the fair and she wanted her friends to have a say. "Did you guys scope out the place beforehand?"

"Zay, and I did." Maya answered with a smile.

"Oh, Cambodia." Zay smiles brightly after noticing a booth for Cambodia. "Anybody interested in learning about a new culture?"

"Of course." Mirabel nodded with a soft smile.

"Yeah, that's been on my mind lately." Farkle confessed, a distant look in his eyes as he looked at the booth. Mirabel glanced at him with concern, wondering if he was okay.

The group walks over to the booth where an old woman with a kind smile was at. "Hi." Riley greets and the woman bows in response with a smile. "My name is Riley and these are my friends. What was Cambodia like for you?"

"Cambodia is a beautiful country. I lived there in a very bad time." The woman responded.

Riley looks surprised at that and she starts to back away. "Oh, um...Well, have a nice day."

"What's your story?" Maya quickly asked before Riley could walk away.

"Maya, you can't just ask." Riley scolded.

"We're supposed to hear stories." Maya shrugged.

"Yes, it's okay." The woman assures them. "I have a story. I haven't spoke of this for a long time." She confessed. Mirabel's face softened at that and she nodded, silently encouraging the woman to share her story.

"We don't mean to intrude." Riley added.

"Not intruding if you really want to hear." The woman said softly.

"We do." Riley nodded.

"Please." Lucas chimed in, his eyes full of curiosity.

The woman nods, gesturing for them to take a seat. The girls sit on the bench in front of the table as the boys stood behind them. "It's a very hard thing to decide you must leave your own country."

"Can you guys even imagine that?" Riley asked, glancing back at her friends.

"Yeah." Mirabel murmured, thinking of her ancestors. She looked down at her lap, feeling a sense of sadness and understanding for the woman. She looked back at Lucas when she felt his hand on her shoulder and he gave her a soft smile, squeezing her shoulder gently. She smiled back at him, feeling comforted by his presence.

"I can imagine it, Riley." Farkle replied.

"Farkle?" Riley glanced back at him with concern.

"Why did you need to leave your country?" Farkle inquired.

"When I was little, my country was run by evil men, very cruel. Millions imprisoned, tortured." The woman came over to sit down on a stool near them as she explains. "My family, many relatives, planned for months. Wait for right moment. One night, we leave. I wasn't supposed to go. They thought I would cry. Bring soldiers. I only cried inside. Went to Philippine Islands. Now here." She moves to stand back at her table. "Not all of us made it out."

Mirabel's heart aches as she listens to her story. She can't imagine what the woman went through and she feels a deep sympathy for her. She thinks back to her ancestors, the people who had to leave their homes behind and start a new life in a strange land. She feels a sense of respect and admiration for them and their courage. While they had to leave because they were apart of a program, this woman and her family had to leave to escape. But they both had one goal - to find a better life. A better place where they could be free and safe.

"I'm sorry." Farkle apologized to the woman.

"You live in a good country, you know that?" The woman spoke with a smile.

"Hey, guys." Nigel greeted, smiling at them when he walked over to them.

"Hey, Nigel." Maya greeted.

"Grandma talking your ears off?" Nigel asked teasingly, wrapping an arm around his grandma, who smiled at him.

"Oh, this is your grandma." Zay realized. Nigel nodded in response and spoke in Cambodian to his grandma, who nodded and smiled at him in response.

Maya stares at him with surprise. "I didn't even know you could talk and you talk two languages."

"I speak English, Cambodian, and Filipino." Nigel chuckled.

"Why would you want to do that?" Maya questioned, furrowing her eyebrows. Mirabel chuckled and shook her head at her.

"So I can understand what everybody has to say." Nigel replied.

"You have very nice friends." Nigel's grandma tells him. She glances at the group with a smile. "Thank you for taking the time to listen to an old woman."

"I'm glad you made it here." Farkle said softly.

"So am I." Nigel's grandma responded as she smiled.

"Thank you for sharing your story." Riley smiled and Nigel's grandma nodded in response while smiling at her.

****

"I am in love with Ireland." Maya said in an Irish accent later that day. The group had just left the booth about Ireland so Maya could learn more about it.

"Not about potatoes and soap anymore, huh?" Lucas questioned.

"Nope. It's about how proud I am to be from here. From the music to the poets. I just never wanted to leave that booth." Maya admitted.

Riley smiles at her, taking ahold of her hand. "Well, you and me will go to Ireland the next St. Paddy's Day and we can bring Mira too." She adds, grinning at Mirabel. "We'll hang out with the Clutterbuckets."

"Yeah," Maya grins. "The booth was real easy to find, but where exactly is Ireland?"

"I think it's up and over there." Riley responded and Mirabel chuckled.

"Actually," Mirabel speaks up, looking at her friends with amusement. "It's by Europe, to the northwest of Great Britain. But nice try." She nudged Riley playfully and the girl laughed.

"How did you know that?" Maya pouted.

"'Cause I like to know about other countries and their cultures." Mirabel replies with a shrug. "Besides, you'll need that knowledge when you go to Ireland." She teased and Maya laughed as she nodded in agreement.

"Okay, why are you being so quiet, Farkle?" Zay speaks up, looking at Farkle with confusion. "It's making me really upset."

"Really?" Farkle looked at him with a shocked expression.

"No. Like it. Peaceful." Zay grins, grimacing when Mirabel reached over to flick the back of his head. "Ow, Lucas your girlfriend flicked me."

"You deserved it." Lucas replies with a chuckle. "But yeah, talk, Farkle. This isn't like you." He added, looking at Farkle with concern.

"I'm not really sure anymore what's like me." Farkle confessed.

"What's the matter with you?" Maya asked with a frown.

"No, I get it. It's just hard when you look at all of these booths to not picture yourself living a different type of life, right?" Riley questions, glancing at Farkle. "That's what you're talking about."

"Okay." Farkle said, sounding unsure and hesitant. Mirabel frowned, wondering what was going on. It was unlike Farkle to be so quiet and uncertain. He was usually so confident and sure of himself. Something was definitely bothering him and she wished he would open up and tell them what was wrong.

"Well, while all of you guys were at your booths of your countries, I went looking for the America booth. Guess what? They don't have one." Riley frowned.

When the bell rang, a man speaks over the PA system. "That's the end of today's Cultural Day celebration. We hope you learned something about somewhere else. Arrivederci, sayonara, and for all you native New Yorkers - get outta here!"

"Last chance, Farkle." Lucas glances at him with a small smile. "You want to go find the Denmark booth?"

Mirabel had gotten caught up by what she missed the other day when the gang was at Topanga's. Farkle had found out more about his ancestors and how they were from Denmark. But there was something he was keeping from his friends. Mirabel just knew it and she was worried about him. She could clearly see he was anxious and nervous about something. She had tried to get him to talk to her about it, but he refused, insisting that he was fine.

"Yeah, let's give Farkle a chance to hear some stories about his people." Zay suggested.

"That's okay, I-I think I know too many stories already." Farkle stuttered before he walked away, leaving his friends behind. Mirabel frowned at that, wondering what had happened to him. She hoped he would be okay.

****

The next day at school, Mirabel was one of the ones who talked to the class about her stories. Maya had gone before her, talking about her history. Mirabel was happy to share her story with the class, talking about her ancestors and how they immigrated to New York. She told the story of her great-great-great grandparents and their children, sharing how her family had come a long way and how her parents met.

"So, the lesson I learned from discovering my history is that no matter where we came from, we all have a story to tell. And if we don't take the time to listen and learn about each other, then we will never truly understand one another." Mirabel finished. "Thank you." She smiled and took a seat as the class clapped for her. Her face flushed when Lucas leaned over to kiss her cheek and whisper "good job" in her ear. Her heart fluttered and she returned the smile he sent her.

Mr. Matthews smiles at Mirabel. "Thank you for sharing your story, Mirabel." Mirabel nodded and smiled at him in response. Soon it was Riley's turn to talk about her heritage and at one point, she had told them to go on a field trip out to the hall. She talked about how the country was one big cultural fair and she had pointed out to a painting of a girl that had different shapes and colors on the wall. She said she was that girl and so was everyone else. Mirabel thought Riley's report was great. She agreed with Riley with how being in New York it was easy to step into another culture with just a simple hello. She loved how the city was a mix of many different people, all coming together to form one beautiful, diverse, community. That was one of the first things she was quick to love when she moved to New York.

After Riley's report was over, class was over and Mr. Matthews had let them off early. While the other students wandered off and did their own thing, Mirabel, Lucas, and the others stayed in the hall. "You know, Farkle, you're the only one who hasn't told us anything today." Zay pointed out.

"Yeah, we know everyone's story but yours." Maya added.

"And that doesn't work in this group." Lucas continued.

"Farkle?" Riley said softly, looking at him with a small smile.

"My great-grandfather left Denmark and came to America right after World War ll." Farkle finally confessed. Mirabel's face softened, understanding washing over her as she put the pieces together.

"Just him?" Maya asked, noticing how Farkle didn't mention anyone else.

"I think he was the only one left." Farkle murmured, sitting down on the bench in the hallway.

"Well, what about the others before him?" Riley inquired.

"I don't think they were named Minkus." Farkle answered.

"Well, who were they?" Lucas questioned.

"I don't know. I don't know if I'll ever know. There aren't birth records." Farkle replies. "All I know is that during World War ll, he was adopted by a Christian family named Minkus in Denmark, who wanted to help him."

Realization washed over Mirabel as she realized what he was implying. She frowned, her heart aching as she looked at her friend with a sad expression. "Help him what?" Lucas quired, confused by what Farkle meant.

Farkle froze, his body stiffening and his eyes widening. He looked almost scared. "Help him live." Zay cut in, sitting down besides Farkle. "His great-grandfather was Jewish."

Farkle nods. "Sometimes it's real hard when you find out your story. My whole family-" His voice trailed off as his friends looked at him sadly.

"Yeah," Zay said sympathetically. "I'm here if you ever want to talk."

"Me too." Mirabel speaks up, gaining a surprised look from Farkle. While learning about her family, she had learned that she had distant relatives who were also Jewish and had faced discrimination and persecution during World War II. She knew what Farkle must be feeling, she had felt the same way when she found out. It was hard and confusing and she wanted to help him, to show him that he wasn't alone. "I learned that some of my distant relatives were Jewish..." She takes a deep breath, blinking away the sudden tears that brimmed her eyes. "They faced unimaginable hardships and discrimination during that time...Some were even persecuted and killed because of their religion...It was hard to learn about my family and their history...So I can relate and understand, Farkle. I'm always here if you want to talk." She admitted.

Farkle looks surprised, but then his face softens and he looks grateful and relieved as he nods. "Thank you, Mira. I appreciate it. Same goes to you." He smiled and Mirabel's lips tugged upwards into a small smile as she nodded.

"You too, Zay." Mirabel adds, glancing at Zay. "If you need to talk, I'm here." She had learnt that his family was brought from Ghana to Jamaica before they came to America. Then it was Texas and now New York.

Zay smiles at her and nods. "Thanks, Mira. Same goes to you." He replied.

"I found out about these wonderful people called 'Christian Rescuers'. They saved babies by taking them in when they were -" Farkle pauses when Riley suddenly sat down and hugged him. He looks surprised, but he smiles softly. "Thanks." He mumbles. He glances over at her. "I'm glad you found your story, Riley." He looks at all his friends with a smile. "I'm happy you all did. My story will be how lucky we are to live in a place that allows you to come here so you can be whoever you are. But that's all I can really tell you about my heritage right now. Because I'm still finding out who I am."

A/N had to do a lot of research for this chapter & i apologize if i got anything wrong but i loved writing it honestly cause this gives more detail about mirabel's backstory :) also i love mirabel & lucas so much, they're so cute