It was a fun update! I'm glad to see Kerie is maybe finding some happiness for herself, and I like Talin. I hope things work out for them!

As for Nikki and Zach... One angle could be to decide based on what works best for you from the point of view of the challenge. Or, as Jo suggested, to play to their wants, or perhaps to what their behavior seems to indicate. Whichever way you decide, good luck!

I can definitely relate to wanting to go lighter with the story. Those kind of updates are fun to read, too. :) Good luck with that one as well!