I’m currently setting up my households in Sulani for the next arc of my story.
I moved Kylen and Aaron back to Sulani. I’m thinking that, because Kylen has been so persistent about wanting a baby, he ultimately decided that he wanted to move back to Sulani to be close to his family again.
I moved Ember out and moved Alexander Goth in with Ember.
My most pressing question is: What am I going to do about Alexander Goth’s mortal existence?
Like Sefina, he has to make a choice about whether or not he will become a half-merman, or something else. Ember is the Spirit of Mua Pel’Am’s Volcano. While she isn’t a mermaid or vampire, she is an Immortal Elemental Spirit.
I need time to think about some things. Sulani is a world filled with immortal sims in my game. It is the primary home for merfolk…. It might make the most sense to turn Alex into a merman.
Well, today I discovered that if you're a Spellcaster, you get a Focused boost while you're a Medium Freelancer. It's supposed to boost your Medium skill faster The only problem being, I discovered this by the time I was already Level 5 and Freelancing.
I've also been trying to work out good ways to store and display collectibles. Some shelves look like they store things and don't actually store much at all.
Prepping a list of mods to add after Infants are placed into the game. Because real life isn't 'nice'.
Wow, I've just reached a major milestone in the game that will eventually become my Master Save file.
A long time ago I started playing 24 toddlers and their parents. The first home in my rotation was an orphanage.
The owner is Alma Lefay Peregrine and her first child was Meadow Thayer.
Yep, this household is based on Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children.
She raised an alien, three cat girls, a vampire, a girl that sees dead people, and a child that is normal, but is also a child genius.
She raised them from toddlers, but now they are all grown up.
Unfortunately it's too late for a werewolf child. That would have been fun.
She's an elder today, and all she has left are the three cat girls.
The other have all gone to prep-school, university, and their own homes or apartments.
This house is too large and she isn't taking on any more orphans.
It's time to move out.
I figured out the perfect place. Alma became a spellcaster when we got Realm of Magic.
This house in Glimmerbrook is a perfect place to settle for retirement.
An old lady and her cats.
The girls aren't going to University. They will stay with her. Of course if a pack that features bands comes out, the cat girls will use their uniqueness to find fame and fortune.
I should have locked this picture when they were all teens and older and started a new one for her and the cat girls.
I wish I had taken more pictures while they were growing up.
Alma has very few pictures to hang on her walls.
I am going to have all of her orphans visit her and bring gift pictures of themselves.
This house is a perfect size for the four of them.
Bastet gets the more private setup. It makes sense. She and Meadow Thayer were partners in crime and were always together.
Hecate and Ceridwen were usually together because Bastet and Meadow were always somewhere up to some mischief.
They have bedrooms off this living space.
This bed is new, but everything else used to belong to Meadow Thayer.
Meadow wanted Bastet to have her stuff after she left for Smuggsworth Prep.
Ms. Peregrine has the room on top.
That's a lot of stairs to climb, but they will keep her in shape.
If we do get a bands pack, the girls may still stay here.
If not, I will see that each of them gives her a normal cat that looks like themselves and will be namesakes.
If they get crazy famous, they may leave, so Alma can live in peace and quite.
I am just past the midpoint of raising all those toddlers and playing them through University.
I feel like I can see light at the end of the tunnel.
I’m currently setting up my households in Sulani for the next arc of my story.
I moved Kylen and Aaron back to Sulani. I’m thinking that, because Kylen has been so persistent about wanting a baby, he ultimately decided that he wanted to move back to Sulani to be close to his family again.
I moved Ember out and moved Alexander Goth in with Ember.
My most pressing question is: What am I going to do about Alexander Goth’s mortal existence?
Like Sefina, he has to make a choice about whether or not he will become a half-merman, or something else. Ember is the Spirit of Mua Pel’Am’s Volcano. While she isn’t a mermaid or vampire, she is an Immortal Elemental Spirit.
I need time to think about some things. Sulani is a world filled with immortal sims in my game. It is the primary home for merfolk…. It might make the most sense to turn Alex into a merman.
And here all I was worried about was whether or not Erik should get a cow or a Llama. I know you'll sort it all out.
Hopefully, it helps to avoid taking away from the story posts. I’m open to any suggestions and ideas someone wants to offer there. I don’t mind continuing a conversation here too.
There are four possibilities for Alex that would all be interesting.
Princess Roddy was relaxing in his bedroom. Shine came in and sat down next to her adorable firstborn. She gave him a great, big, loving and warm cuddle:
Shine cuddled the princess tighter:
She then planted a very great, big, loving smooch on Princess Roddy's cheeks, nose and forehead. Shine then gave him a very great, big, long, loving smooch on the top of his head. Princess Roddy giggled and kissed his mum's cheek. Shine smiled and went downstairs to trim her bonsai bush. Later on, the princess tested out his new telescope:
He enjoyed looking at the stars. When it was lighter out, Shine had a go:
Inside, Princess Roddy gave Sophia a great, big, loving hug:
And then he gave Hamish a great, big, loving hug:
And a loving smooch on his nose:
Hamish smiled. Then the three siblings played together.
Ramen and smooches!
Princess Roddy, Sophia, Hamish and Shine sat down at the kitchen table. They ate ramen, Princess Roddy's favourite food:
After they had finished, Princess Roddy and his younger siblings helped to clean up. Shine smiled and looked warmly at her offspring. Hamish came up to Shine and gave her a kiss on the cheek. 'I love you, mum!' he said, cheerfully. 'And I love you too, Hamish!' Shine replied. She batted her eyelashes and made a very great, big kissy face at Hamish, which made him blush slightly:
Shine then gave Hamish a very great, big, loving smooch on his cheek:
Hamish blushed. 'Awww, you're so cute when you blush!' Shine said, looking fondly at Hamish. Later on, Shine woohoo'd with Benjamin in the shower:
Benjamin was very fond of his big and beautiful wife.
Loving motherly affectionate smooches!
Princess Roddy went up to his bedroom and tended to his plants on the balcony. Then he read one of the Princess Loveheart stories by Rachel Applebee. When he finished, Princess Roddy put the book back on his bookshelf. Shine came in and gave him a great, big, loving and warm hug:
'How are you doing, sweetie?' Shine asked, smiling warmly at her firstborn:
'I'm doing well, mummy!' Princess Roddy replied, cheerfully:
'That's good to hear, sweetie!' Shine said, looking fondly at the princess:
Shine applied her shiny, bright pink lipstick. She then smiled sweetly, batted her eyelashes and made a very great, big kissy face at Princess Roddy, which made him giggle:
Shine gave the princess several very great, big, loving smooches on his face:
Princess Roddy went bright red and giggled. Shine had covered his face in several very great, big, shiny, bright pink lipstick smooches!
The princess used one of his makeup removal wipes to remove the lipstick smooches from his face:
Shine smiled. She was fond of her three offspring.
Slow dancing to Baroque!
Shine went downstairs. Benjamin soon followed. Benjamin turned the stereo on and set the station to Baroque. The pair then danced together:
Afterwards, Shine gave her amazing husband a very great, big, loving smooch on his cheek:
Benjamin looked deeply into his big and beautiful wife's pretty eyes and smiled warmly.
A royal visit to Moonwood Mill!
Woohoo!
Princess Roddy got changed into his royal outfit. 'I'm ready to set off for Moonwood Mill, mummy and dad!' the princess said telepathically. 'Ready to act as your guards, my boy!' Benjamin replied, telepathically. So Princess Roddy and his parents set off for Moonwood Mill.
The group arrived. Princess Roddy looked around in amazement, taking in the view. He then set about saying hello to the denizens of Moonwood Mill, as did Benjamin and Shine. The princess was surprised that some of them were already in their werewolf form:
Benjamin could sense a malicious presence lingering around however. Princess Roddy also sensed it and stared in the direction of the negative energy. 'That's probably Greg. Simeon Silversweater told me about him before we set off. Apparently, he lost control of his werewolf form.' Princess Roddy explained. 'That explains the massive amount of malicious energy emanating from that cabin.' Benjamin replied.
It was time to go back home. Princess Roddy, Shine and Benjamin headed back to Dianthus Hall.
Spellcaster vs Unstable Werewolf
Benjamin was feeling a bit restless. So he decided to head over to the old cabin in Moonwood Mill. No sooner had he stepped beyond the warning signs, Greg appeared, and boy was he angry. The irate werewolf snarled at Benjamin. 'You need to chill out!' Benjamin said, casting Chillio:
Greg found himself frozen solid:
When the ice eventually melted, Greg was still in a foul mood. 'Strangeify!' Benjamin called out. Nothing happened. He sighed. 'Inferniate!' Benjamin shouted. Success, and Greg was now on fire:
'That does it!' Greg growled angrily. He leapt towards Benjamin and a fight ensued:
Benjamin was giving it his all. 'Put them up! PUT THEM UP!' Greg yelled in frustration as Benjamin sneaked behind him. Princess Roddy was out on a night time walk and saw what was going on:
'Getting some exercise, Dad?' Princess Roddy asked telepathically. 'You could say that, my boy!' Benjamin replied telepathically, grappling the werewolf:
Benjamin won. 'I'll get you next time, Benjamin Furystrykar!' Greg snarled:
'I'd like to see you try!' Benjamin said, smugly. Princess Roddy giggled as Greg scarpered back into his old cabin. He had been put in his place by a spellcaster. Princess Roddy and Benjamin Furystrykar went back home. When they got back to Dianthus Hall, Shine greeted them. She looked at the various scratches and bite marks on her husband. 'Had a fight with Greg?' she asked. 'Yep.' Benjamin replied. 'Who won?' Shine enquired. 'Me.' Benjamin replied. Shine chuckled and healed her amazing husband's wounds. Later, Benjamin, Princess Roddy and Sophia read werewolf literature:
And after that, Benjamin played the guitar for a while:
He enjoyed playing his guitars!
Sims 4 Family: Benjamin, Shine, Princess Roddy, Sophia and Hamish Furystrykar and Shelly Heart. Princess Roddy is my avatar, and he's a boy!
The happiest family in San Myshuno knew that their time together would come to an end before long. But for now, they would enjoy one another as much as they could.
Their beloved late-in-life baby Cassie had a beautiful bedroom with Anaya's bright paintings on the wall
Cassie aged up into an angelic toddler (of course)... with a manic-pixie sense of fashion
They enjoyed having a little one around especially
They also enjoyed their grown daughter Billie, when they could work their way into her busy schedule
Anytime Cassie was in bed was time for the favorite adult activities.
On Love Day, they paid a visit to their dear friends the Rasoyas. Anaya is the kind of friend who remembers that Raj is single and unflirty and might appreciate some extra appreciation and non-romantic companionship on this day. The visit included the Rasoyas' cat Ducks who is unaccountably famous now (I have no idea)
Later, they hired a nanny and went on a date.
"Why does it always snow inside the karaoke bar?"
"That is one of the great mysteries of the city, sweetheart."
"Feel like a tune?"
"Always."
Humor and Hijinks came. Cassie is officially the first person in this save to meet a certain enthusiastic red-headed new arrival to the city. She's only a toddler but I feel like she's the right character to meet her first, somehow.
Cassie told her first joke at the festival. She had an appreciative audience.
And, well, the cruel march of time. (Sorry, everyone. We're at the point where the OG Adult premades are running out of time...)
(From left to right at this funeral lunch: Raj Rasoya (behind Anaya), Anaya, Cassie, Billie, Tanvi Savalani, and Tanvi's children Laila Benali (with Salim) and Sai Savalani (with her ex-husband).)
Anaya paints, and spends plenty of time with Cassie and her friends. She'll be okay. But she isn't going to change aspirations. It's the half-completed Soulmates aspiration for her forever.
@mightysprite Awww, that half-completed Soulmates aspiration gets me right in the feels. I have some soulmate Sims like that too.
My username has been my internet handle for over 20 years since I was 16 and refers to when I had a crush on a very tall boy. I intend absolutely no violence toward beautiful giraffes.
Beth was tense. The full moon was rising tonight, and she was worried. Nick had had first change on the last moon but, unlike her twin, Beth hadn't. She knew her father loved her, but she worried about disappointing him by not carrying the legacy of the wolf. Her skin felt too tight.
It was Nick's idea to call Jake and Miranda over and head down to the lake. To distract her, he said.
Right Nick. No other motives at all.
Still, hanging out with the gang down by the lake was fun...
... even if the boys were being weird around Miranda.
It was nice to play in the cool water and just be together...
... and really nice to be near Jake. Lately, Beth felt better when she was close to him.
That night, Nick brought her to up to the top of the rock for a howl...
As the room rose over the trees, Beth watched the change overtake her brother...
... her skin felt tight. Her body didn't seem to be the right shape anymore. Oh God, this was it! She was changing.
She was a wolf!
She ran and ran and ran, for the pure joy of running under the moon.
Morning found her back on the rock, watching the sun rise and smelling all the scents on the breeze.
A new scent caught her attention. "Miranda?" Beth turned. "What are you doing here?"
"I wanted to see if you were OK," Miranda said. "Nick said you were going up here last night and I thought you might come back when... when you were done. How... I mean... what is it like."
"It's terrifying... and thrilling," Beth said. "Wonderful and horrible and just amazing. I feel... like myself. Really myself, for the first time."
"Thank you," Beth added. "For coming up to check on me."
"Hey, what are friends for?" Miranda smiled.
Fate is a riddle and we choose our own answer.Wyrd Girls
Meet Lizzie Pizzazz, the girl with the most Z's in the city.
(Also the first baby born biologically to a same-sex couple, via alien technology. Bess has connections.)
Lizzie is very social but also fussy. So she loves her family's frequent pleasant dinners with friends
But any dinner can turn into this at any point.
Penny and Bess's older (adopted) son Sterling loves soccer and fashion. He made a beauty video "Makeup Can Be For Boys Too" which earned him some teasing at school from a few of the boys. But then the video earned a Starlight Accolade nomination. And now a few of the other boys at school are rocking foundation and nail polish. So Sterling feels like a cool trendsetter.
He loves doing puppet shows for moms and Diego (who lives next door): the good kind of drama
Penny is a professional trendsetter... her work outfits just get weirder and weirder
Her styleboard recently exploded with confetti and gained a few pieces of cloth. Does anyone know what this means? The options on the board are all the same unless I'm missing something.
Bess is working hard both as an eco-technician and as the owner of the Spark-n-Fizz shop for upgraded appliances and fizzy juices. The customers love her stuff
I guess that must be some very high quality kombucha?
Yeah, okay, she does make some very high quality kombucha, didn't realize that could happen
Bess's best buds Knox and Jules are good bro company. They talk all things eco, work on logic and bounce concept ideas off each other.
Bess might be involved in some shady investments, but when it comes to public safety, she hates shady stuff with a passion. She blew the whistle on a project that could have compromised the water supply.
Ruffled some feathers, but Bess doesn't care about that. She got promoted to Eco-Tech Scientist after this.
Penny got a promotion too! She landed a high-profile last-minute styling gig for a celebrity's gown
Penny and Bess decided to underwrite this year's Pride celebration at Myshuno Court. I've posted about this elsewhere but here are pictures under the spoiler. It was fun creating a special-occasion version of the venue. Both the regular and Pride versions are saved in my library so I can easily swap them in and out for the special event day. The My Wedding Stories aisles worked well as a parade route. I ran into trouble trying to hire vendors for more than one stall-- they charged S100 every time but only one vendor at a time would show up. Anyhow, at least we got the DJ.
Another special-occasion version of a venue: the Casbah Arts Center hosted its first Family Film Night! This will happen every summer.
The real star of the show as always is this pretty city.
Makin' me homesick, San Myshuno.
@luciusstorm I'm enjoying how you're delving into the psychological aspects of being a werewolf. Good job!
Ditto this. I’m enjoying the story so far. Question is, will Miranda and Nick be a pair? I’m curious about Alexander Goth though.
I’m looking forward to when I can get the Werewolves pack. I think I’ll save getting it for another arc of my story. I have so many ideas brewing for Werewolves!
Right now, I’m still a third of the way into my Darkfin Arc.
———————
Based on the discussion and the poll I started, I’m thinking my Alexander will either be a spellcaster or merman.
I’m thinking of saving Alexander’s choice for later in the summer season, after I age up Juniper and Jade.
So far, my rough idea about Alexander is that he is Ember’s Childhood Friend that eventually became her boyfriend. Ember, Alex, and Lucas Munch we’re close friends growing up. None of Ember’s friends knew that she came from a Family of Elementals. They don’t know that merfolk are real.
Alex has now moved in with Ember, and the home they moved into was the old home that Calum and Arihi raised Dylan and Zeph in.
Now that Alex is moved in with Ember, he will be living very close to the Reef Merfolk of Sulani, the Mua Pel’Am Pod.
I’m calling the appearance of most of my merfolk “Reef” because of their colorful appearance. I’m thinking that any human that eats mermadic kelp will transform into a reef variant of merfolk.
I’m thinking about introducing another variant of merfolk to my story, the Deep Sea variant. But that will come from somewhere else.
With Erik’s help, Kayleigh got the children to bed. It was late, later than she preferred. Erik got them bathed one after the other and Kayleigh tucked them in.
“It’s time for bed, Cadence,” Kayleigh said, finding the wee girl in her older brother’s room.
“I just saying night-night to Barfly. Why his name Barfly?”
“I don't really know. You need to ask Jamison why he hasn’t changed it. I think he may have been trying to say Barney, but it came out wrong. Come on, hop into bed. Mommy can’t lift you right now, Doctor’s orders.”
“Mommy, baby?” She said, patting her mother’s bulging midriff.
“Yes, and soon, I’m thinking.”
“Night-night.”
“Night-night, Sweetie.”
Erik had finally finished his deliberation. Despite the song he wrote about Llamas, he decided a cow would give them more. With as many little mouths to feed as they had, knowing there would be an endless supply of milk on hand, was a comfort. He was outside making the Cow’s acquaintance, when Kayleigh went into labor.
“That-a-girl, Magnolia. Or do you prefer Maggie? Or maybe just Mags. I know I do.”
Pulling his vibrating phone out of his pocket, he read the text. “Erik, it’s go-time!”
“Gotta go, Magster.”
Rushing inside, Erik took a quick moment to wash his hands. He wanted to change his clothes, but one look at his wife’s face told him they needed to go —now. He hollered at Aylin, to let her know she was on Child Duty and left with his wife. He was very glad Henford-on-Bagley Community Hospital was nearby. Since this was not her first child, Kayleigh was admitted immediately. She was checked by one Obstetrician and then took herself out to the wide hallway to use her exercise ball to help expedite her labor. Erik followed and began to play and sing to help distract his wife from the pain.
Just as their first experience, this proved a not-so-good idea. Pretty soon, the couple weren’t alone.
“I should have known,” he sang. “and I’m sorry, Babe. I hope you will forgive me . . .”
“Woah, now I’m really sorry,” he continued to sing, just making it up as he went along. “Darling, Darling, I’m so for---ever sorry.”
When it was time for Kayleigh to be checked again, she walked back into the examination room. “Joey! Oh, my goodness, what happened to Dr. Goodman?”
“He went home. I was a tad late in getting here. This is my shift. New guy, I always get the late night shifts.”
“Well, this is only slightly awkward,” she said climbing onto the exam table, with Joey's help.
“I can get another physician to take over, if you prefer.”
“No, no. You’re the Obstetrician on duty. Besides you have to deliver a baby, don’t you?”
“Yeah, how did you know?”
“Astrid and I keep tabs with each other.”
At that moment, Erik came into the room. “Joe,” he said. “Don’t know why, but I didn’t expect to see you here.”
“This is where you work, after all. Huh. Glad to see you, Bro.”
Kayleigh went back to her exercises. The two followed her into the corridor. Happily, it was now devoid of Sims. While Kayleigh bounced and stretched on the ball, the brothers busily chatted, catching up with each other.
“Oh, oh, I’m feeling a tad nauseous,” Kayleigh moaned.
“That’s okay, just means you’re dilating. You’re almost there.”
“Ohhhh, Joey, something’s happening.”
“Okay, let’s get you into the Delivery Room S.T.A.T.”
Kayleigh was on the table. Joey checked her and then stood back. “Oh, will you look at that!”
“Joey?”
“So, that’s what they mean by crowning. Wow. This is so exciting. One more push and we’re home free. That’s good. That’s good. Okay, hold up. You can stop pushing now. Take a breather.”
“Hello, I’m your uncle Joe,” he said, as he leaned over to catch the child. “
Carefully, Joey gently pulled the baby out the rest of the way, He placed him on his mother’s chest. “Just a little skin-on-skin,” he said. “Here you go, it’s a boy!”
“Hello, Andrew.”
“Erik, you better not be taping this!”
“Relax, Babe, I would never violate your privacy. Just capturing enough of the moment, leaving your dignity intact. I promise. Have I ever lied to you?”
When they got home again, they placed Andrew in his bassinet and then went upstairs to check on their other children. Shockingly, their little beds were empty. “Outside?” Erik suggested. They went out back to have a look. No children. The chickens were there, the cow was there. But the children were nowhere to be seen. Trying very hard not to panic, Erik ran downstairs to the basement. He was back up again in an instant. “Not here, either.”
“Where’s Aylin? Do you think she could have taken them all for a walk?”
“I don’t know.” Erik shoved his way through the livingroom glass French door. Hearing noises, he walked over to the end of the room. “Here, they are,” Erik said.
“Phew, I thought I was going to have a heart-attack.”
“We have to have a talk with Aylin,” Kayleigh said. I miss Yumika.
Just a few days later, Kayleigh deemed herself up to caring for their animals. These duties never fell to the Butler. It was strictly up to Erik and Kayleigh. She found the cow and commenced getting to know her.
“Hello, Magnolia. You’re just as pretty as your name.” she said.
“Looks like you could use a milking. Bear with me, I’m new at this.”
“Oh, look, milk’s coming out. I’m doing it! I’m doing it!” And then she laughed with glee.
@Metior_Ice, ask and you shall receive. I been banking stuff to bring Xander into the story... so this is a little backstory to catch you up on where he is in my story.
=============
Wyrd Girls - When Did Everything Go Wrong?
Xander Goth couldn't help but wonder, when did everything go wrong.
It had all started out so great...
He and Elsa had been friends from childhood and only grown closer in high school.
Finally, in college, that closeness burst in passion!
The wedding was wonderful...
... but that perfect day, looking back now, maybe hadn't been so perfect.
He hadn't known then why she insisted on inviting Don. After all, the creep had left his sister at the alter, pregnant!
Still, Cassandra had said she was OK with him being there. It had been years go and Don was a part of Miranda's life.
But why invite him at all?
They were just co-workers, after all.
Elsa barely knew him.
After the wedding, things seemed OK.
Sure, they'd fight.
He knew Elsa would complain to Oliva...
... they were really close friends after all.
He would talk about his problems to his friends, too...
... Lilith was such a good listener.
In the end they would always make up.
Until that night...
Xander had stayed home, trying to work on his latest App. He'd insisted she go and have fun.
Well, she had fun...
... a little more much fun than Xander was OK with.
They tried to talk it out...
... but this time, they just couldn't make it work.
He was still moving out and into his new place, when the police brought him the news about Cassie, Gwen and Miranda.
In just a few days, Xander had lost his marriage, his sister and his niece.
When did everything go wrong?
Fate is a riddle and we choose our own answer.Wyrd Girls
Kayleigh and Erik spent many a conversation trying to sort out just why Yumika left them so abruptly. They both made a concerted effort to praise her, which wasn’t hard, she was so very good at what she did. So dedicated and she appeared to have a genuine affection for the children. Besides, her cleaning skills were amazing. Everything was always sparkling clean around here. Erik tried calling the Agency, but was told there was a Confidentiality Clause. They weren’t at liberty to say.
Aylin Lunsford was nice enough, but concerns had arisen with the quality of her work. Kayleigh grew increasingly alarmed whenever they came home to find her children, angry, hungry, their diapers soaked because the Potty chairs were left unkempt. She sincerely thought about setting up Nanny Cams around the house, lest her children should be sorely abused by the Butler, whose primary job was Caretaker.
“It’s okay, Harmoany,” Jamison tried to console. “Chips are tasty.”
The parents also knew things were off. Once again the children had gotten overtly naughty.
Harmony wasn’t the only offender. Melodie went on an entire spree. Erik drew in a breath when he came upon her using cocoa powder, flour and who knew what else to create a mess on the living room floor. “Melodie, I have had enough of your disobedience. This has got to stop. Come here. It’s high time you learn to say you’re sorry.”
Less defiant than usual, Erik began to wonder if his words were finally getting into that thick little skull of hers. He did hope so.
“That’s right. When you do naughty things you say you’re sorry.”
“So I say sorry, Daddy and I go to bed?”
“Yes, that’s how it is. Are you sorry?”
“Yeah, okay.” She was almost in tears. Defeated in a manner he had never seen before. What is going on around here?
One early evening, Sandi came to call. Kayleigh, delighted, invited her in. Erik was busy out front having a photoshoot. Why he chose to do so in this cool weather, she didn’t quite know. But then she realized she was due any minute. And he probably didn’t want to be away. She did know he’d given another interview. Another nomination brought the Paparazzi out in droves. She imagined it interrupted the photoshoot. She knew he had to be cold, too, wearing just a long-sleeved turtleneck shirt.
The interview done, it was back to posing.
She was also surprised that Yumika was at the front gate, too. She was also invited in. She led her guests into the ‘family room’ end of the Great Room.
Taking her seat Kayleigh began, “Yumika, we all really miss you so much. Was there something we did that upset you? You left without a word.” Kayleigh noticed that Yumika remained standing, which troubled her. She knew Yumika wasn’t planning on staying long, if at all. She also noted that the Butler refused eye-contact with her former boss. This was disturbing.
“I’m so sorry about that. Please forgive my behavior. No, there wasn’t anything any of you did. It’s me. I was getting far too invested in your family. How are the children? I do miss them so.”
Before Kayleigh could answer, Erik came back into the house. The photoshoot must have concluded. Kayleigh noticed he had changed into his sweater. She watched as he walked into the kitchen, “Sweetheart, there’s coffee in the pot to help warm you up.”
“Thanks, Babe,” he called back.
“Oh, please excuse me,” Yumika said, “I wanted to have a word with Mr. Cantrell.” That quickly, she left the room.
Erik looked up as their former Butler walked through the archway into the kitchen.
“Yumika, I thought that was you with my sister-in-law. I would suspect she had poached you, but they don’t have any kids, yet.”
“No, sir, I wasn’t poached. Sir, I-I-ah. This is so hard for me to say. I loved working for you and your family. I really did. Every minute. But, I’ve also been a fan of yours for years.”
“Oh?”
“Yes. To come to work for you was a thrill of a lifetime. You can’t even imagine Only, what I didn’t expect was just how very sweet and kind you are — and not just when the camera is on you. But genuinely nice. just the way I knew you would be.” She paused for a moment. Erik patiently waited to hear her out. She began again, “I-ah. Well, the truth is I found myself becoming more than just a fan. I fell in love with you,” she suddenly blurted, “so I had to go. Your wife is just so sweet, too. I couldn’t remain. I still can’t bring myself to look her in the eyes. The last thing I ever wanted to do was to hurt your family. I got to a point I wasn’t sure I could hold back anymore. You understand, don’t you? Please, say you understand.”
“I don’t know what to say,” Erik said after a long pause. ‘I respect your reasons and I appreciate how awkward and uncomfortable you must have become. Living here with us. And that you had the Agency send along another Butler to replace you. We will always miss you, Yumika. And we still consider you a part of our family.”
Sobbing, Yumika turned to leave. “Thank you, sir. I shall miss all of you, too. Goodbye.”
In another moment, Erik stripped off the sweater finding himself too warm. He sat at the kitchen table to have the cup of coffee he’d poured moments ago.
What am I supposed to say to Kayleigh? It’s my fault she’s gone.
Another post today... lots going on in my game that I want to share.
Wyrd Girls - A Life
It was late, but the sounds of life still thrummed in the surrounding apartments. It didn't matter to him. No one would interrupt... and the locked door was no barrier at all.
It was trivially easy, really.
Elsa, your mind is mine. Your will is mine. You will obey.
"There you are," he said softly. "She is yours now, Max. As I promised."
"Why are you bothering me?"
"Forgive me, my lord but he is asking for you. I think it's nearly time."
"I'll be right there."
"Vladislaus, my old friend," Jacques smiled. "Join me... not that I expect you want a hot dog."
"Should you really be eating those... things, my lad" Vlad asked.
"I'm an old man now, Vlad. One more hot dog isn't going to kill me," Jacques shrugged.
"You know you only ever had to ask, my lad," Vlad said quietly.
"Immortality... fah," Jacques smiled.
"What do I want with immortality?" he continued. "I've lived, Vlad. Oh, let's not call it a good life... we can be honest tonight, you and I... I am a liar, a thief and a murderer. Still, the police can't touch me. The Families respect me. I have all the money I might want. I have a family... two sons to carry my name and a daughter who has surpassed them both! I have a grandchild. That... that is my immortality!"
"By the way, I know you've taken my young Max under your wing," Jacques added. "I would ask you to leave him alone, but I'm sure you've seen a use for him. So, I know you'd just lie and take him anyway."
"My dear lad..." Vlad started.
"Be honest, old man," Jacques laughed. "Just for tonight, be honest with me."
"Now, I know you've started to move," Jacques said. "Max is rising in the Organization... under your guidance. Once I'm gone, only the Landgraabs will stand between you and control over the Families. I'm sure you have a plan for them already. You've killed Cassandra Goth and the Silveroak girl... best not let Mortimer learn about that."
"Mortimer doesn't worry me," Vlad said.
"Your people have even gotten rid of that meddlesome reporter, Kim-Lewis," Jacques nodded knowingly.
"You're almost ready... but remember, old man, people aren't just pieces on the chess board even for you. Something out there may surprise you yet"
"Probably something you least expect."
"Good night, old man," Jacques said. "Maybe we'll talk again before it's over."
"Good night, my lad," Vlad said sadly. "Rest... well."
Fate is a riddle and we choose our own answer.Wyrd Girls
Wins and Losses, part three, an Erik Cantrell REDUX
“I just had a sit-down with Aylin,” Erik said, walking into the Master Suite.
Andrew was asleep in his bassinet, he gave a tiny sigh. The other children were playing happily outdoors on their gym. Giggles filled the air, the window slightly ajar for some fresh air. Erik took a quick peek at them. The day was a bright, sunshiny day — a nice break from all of the torrential rains they had been having, of late. When did we move to the Tropics?
“And,” Kayleigh prompted her husband. She knew Erik hated confrontations. He often grew quiet, contemplative, as if he feared saying the wrong thing. Kayleigh regretted having to push him into doing what she knew in her heart was the only thing open to them.
“She said she would try to do better.” He shrugged, sticking his hands into the front pockets of his jeans.
“So you only scolded her,” she said. “Erik, I thought we agreed to dismiss her altogether.”
“I tried, but she insisted we give her another chance and that she would do better.”
“I don’t care,” Kayleigh shouted. “She has to go. And she has to go today!” Kayleigh fired the pillows onto the top of their bed. Erik ducked, certain, hers was just a poor aim and that he truly was the target of her wrath. And rightly so. I failed you, again.
In the end Kayleigh was the one who fired Aylin. She sat down with the Butler at the kitchen table and they began to discuss all manner of things. This was the long overdue ‘interview’ the couple never had with their new, unexpected employee. Kayleigh’s heart sank.
“Actually, Ma’am, I hate children. And I dislike cleaning up after others, too.”
“What? Why did you take this job? It’s on our account that we primarily need a Butler willing to do childcare on top of housekeeping duties!”
Aylin had an odd look on her face. “I needed the job,” she said. “And I had no idea your children were such brats. Undisciplined, unruly, impudent Brats, all four of them. And now you’ve got five!”
Kayleigh closed her big blue eyes for only a moment. Then she looked up at the Butler, no longer seated and said, oh, so calmly, “You’re fired.”
“Fine, you still owe me two hundred-seventy-seven Simoleons for today.”
“Fine.” Kayleigh took out her phone and sent the credits to the woman. “Please pack your bags and go.”
That Sunday was the Starlight Accolade Show. Joey and Astrid, having learned about the Butler, offered to come sit the children so that Kayleigh could also get out of the house, if even for one evening. The children were very happy to see their aunt and uncle and threw their little arms about them both. “Now I know how you feel when your fans swarm around you,” Joey said, smiling. “Take it easy, there’s plenty of me to go around. We have the whole evening together. What do you say we get some dinner and watch Daddy on TV tonight?”
“Yeah!”
“Thanks, Joe. Astrid.”
Before she went inside, Kayleigh stopped to check on her husband’s Tile.
“Kay-Kay, the music is on, come on!”
Taking their seats, the room was in an uproar.
Finally, the Host took his place before the microphone and officially opened the Show. “Good Evening, one and all. Welcome to the Starlight Accolades! First up, for an amazing, unexpected performance we have Hilomi Yamizaki, for Best Actress!”
“Thank you to the Director, the Crew and all of the Cast for their undying support. I could not have done this without you. Thank you.”
“For Best Actor, we have Dustin Broke! Now, there’s a mystery. Congratulations!”
“Whoa-ho-ho, who knew, am I right?”
“And not the least of which we now come to the Music Category. For bringing such aural beauty to ears around the world, this week’s Best Song goes to — I don’t believe this. Erik Cantrell for his, All Things Worthy. Sixteen! What a ride, you‘re having. Congratulations!”
Erik stood and walked to the microphone. He reached down to take up the trophy.
Clearing his throat, twice, he said, “Mr. Frost, you’re not the only one in disbelief. I can hardly believe it myself.”
“It is with the utmost pleasure that I accept this honor, once again.”
“I have several Sims to thank, but mostly, I have You, my Lord.”
“Thank you to the Starlight Academy, to my lovely wife, Kayleigh, our five children, my entire family, my fans, my record label, Taygeta Studios, the music company who schedules all of my concerts, Orion Entertainment, Limited, to my parents, my priest and my Church family, who all have stood in support of my efforts, I could never have made it this far without any of you. I love you, All.”
“There comes a time in any Artist’s life when he feels adrift. Lost at sea. Unworthy. These are some dark times. I have felt that way a bit most recently. But, then Sunday rolls around and I am reminded there is meaning to what I do. That somehow, somewhere, just maybe my music brings a little something to someone. Perhaps a little sunshine after all the rain. And it makes my work worthwhile. Gives meaning to what I do. Thank you for that.”
“Thank you so much for keeping me afloat. Without you, I would have surely drowned years ago. This is for you, too. I love you All.”
“Children, go to bed. Mommy and I will be home soon. Good night, Everybody and thank you, again.”
All for now. Thanks for reading! So good to be caught up again.
@GalacticGal... drama, fans, horrible staff and yet more awards. I love it!
Yeah, I didn't plan any of it. The game, again, gave me a bonus. Yumika just left the house one day. I saw her at one of Erik's Events and she had the Fan notation over her name. That's when I knew what I had to write about. Glad you enjoyed it.
Comments
I moved Kylen and Aaron back to Sulani. I’m thinking that, because Kylen has been so persistent about wanting a baby, he ultimately decided that he wanted to move back to Sulani to be close to his family again.
I moved Ember out and moved Alexander Goth in with Ember.
My most pressing question is: What am I going to do about Alexander Goth’s mortal existence?
Like Sefina, he has to make a choice about whether or not he will become a half-merman, or something else. Ember is the Spirit of Mua Pel’Am’s Volcano. While she isn’t a mermaid or vampire, she is an Immortal Elemental Spirit.
I need time to think about some things. Sulani is a world filled with immortal sims in my game. It is the primary home for merfolk…. It might make the most sense to turn Alex into a merman.
I did think of a new question that might help me decide.
Can a baby between a merman and spellcaster end up glitched?
If Alexander becomes a merman, there could be problems later if he and Ember have a child. That might make my decision for me.
I've also been trying to work out good ways to store and display collectibles. Some shelves look like they store things and don't actually store much at all.
A long time ago I started playing 24 toddlers and their parents. The first home in my rotation was an orphanage.
The owner is Alma Lefay Peregrine and her first child was Meadow Thayer.
Yep, this household is based on Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children.
She raised an alien, three cat girls, a vampire, a girl that sees dead people, and a child that is normal, but is also a child genius.
She raised them from toddlers, but now they are all grown up.
Unfortunately it's too late for a werewolf child. That would have been fun.
She's an elder today, and all she has left are the three cat girls.
The other have all gone to prep-school, university, and their own homes or apartments.
This house is too large and she isn't taking on any more orphans.
It's time to move out.
I figured out the perfect place. Alma became a spellcaster when we got Realm of Magic.
This house in Glimmerbrook is a perfect place to settle for retirement.
An old lady and her cats.
The girls aren't going to University. They will stay with her. Of course if a pack that features bands comes out, the cat girls will use their uniqueness to find fame and fortune.
I should have locked this picture when they were all teens and older and started a new one for her and the cat girls.
I wish I had taken more pictures while they were growing up.
Alma has very few pictures to hang on her walls.
I am going to have all of her orphans visit her and bring gift pictures of themselves.
This house is a perfect size for the four of them.
Bastet gets the more private setup. It makes sense. She and Meadow Thayer were partners in crime and were always together.
Hecate and Ceridwen were usually together because Bastet and Meadow were always somewhere up to some mischief.
They have bedrooms off this living space.
This bed is new, but everything else used to belong to Meadow Thayer.
Meadow wanted Bastet to have her stuff after she left for Smuggsworth Prep.
Ms. Peregrine has the room on top.
That's a lot of stairs to climb, but they will keep her in shape.
If we do get a bands pack, the girls may still stay here.
If not, I will see that each of them gives her a normal cat that looks like themselves and will be namesakes.
If they get crazy famous, they may leave, so Alma can live in peace and quite.
I am just past the midpoint of raising all those toddlers and playing them through University.
I feel like I can see light at the end of the tunnel.
And here all I was worried about was whether or not Erik should get a cow or a Llama.
http://www.getfreeebooks.com/star-trek-original-series-fan-fiction-trilogy/
http://www.getfreeebooks.com/star-trek-original-series-fan-fiction-trilogy/
Harold the Llama can be very persuasive.
—————
As for deciding Alexander’s occult life state, I started a poll here:
https://forums.thesims.com/en_US/discussion/1000689/should-i-turn-alexander-goth-into-a-merman#latest
Hopefully, it helps to avoid taking away from the story posts. I’m open to any suggestions and ideas someone wants to offer there. I don’t mind continuing a conversation here too.
There are four possibilities for Alex that would all be interesting.
Thank you!
Shine cuddled the princess tighter:
She then planted a very great, big, loving smooch on Princess Roddy's cheeks, nose and forehead. Shine then gave him a very great, big, long, loving smooch on the top of his head. Princess Roddy giggled and kissed his mum's cheek. Shine smiled and went downstairs to trim her bonsai bush. Later on, the princess tested out his new telescope:
He enjoyed looking at the stars. When it was lighter out, Shine had a go:
Inside, Princess Roddy gave Sophia a great, big, loving hug:
And then he gave Hamish a great, big, loving hug:
And a loving smooch on his nose:
Hamish smiled. Then the three siblings played together.
After they had finished, Princess Roddy and his younger siblings helped to clean up. Shine smiled and looked warmly at her offspring. Hamish came up to Shine and gave her a kiss on the cheek. 'I love you, mum!' he said, cheerfully. 'And I love you too, Hamish!' Shine replied. She batted her eyelashes and made a very great, big kissy face at Hamish, which made him blush slightly:
Shine then gave Hamish a very great, big, loving smooch on his cheek:
Hamish blushed. 'Awww, you're so cute when you blush!' Shine said, looking fondly at Hamish. Later on, Shine woohoo'd with Benjamin in the shower:
Benjamin was very fond of his big and beautiful wife.
'How are you doing, sweetie?' Shine asked, smiling warmly at her firstborn:
'I'm doing well, mummy!' Princess Roddy replied, cheerfully:
'That's good to hear, sweetie!' Shine said, looking fondly at the princess:
Shine applied her shiny, bright pink lipstick. She then smiled sweetly, batted her eyelashes and made a very great, big kissy face at Princess Roddy, which made him giggle:
Shine gave the princess several very great, big, loving smooches on his face:
Princess Roddy went bright red and giggled. Shine had covered his face in several very great, big, shiny, bright pink lipstick smooches!
The princess used one of his makeup removal wipes to remove the lipstick smooches from his face:
Shine smiled. She was fond of her three offspring.
Afterwards, Shine gave her amazing husband a very great, big, loving smooch on his cheek:
Benjamin looked deeply into his big and beautiful wife's pretty eyes and smiled warmly.
The group arrived. Princess Roddy looked around in amazement, taking in the view. He then set about saying hello to the denizens of Moonwood Mill, as did Benjamin and Shine. The princess was surprised that some of them were already in their werewolf form:
Benjamin could sense a malicious presence lingering around however. Princess Roddy also sensed it and stared in the direction of the negative energy. 'That's probably Greg. Simeon Silversweater told me about him before we set off. Apparently, he lost control of his werewolf form.' Princess Roddy explained. 'That explains the massive amount of malicious energy emanating from that cabin.' Benjamin replied.
It was time to go back home. Princess Roddy, Shine and Benjamin headed back to Dianthus Hall.
Greg found himself frozen solid:
When the ice eventually melted, Greg was still in a foul mood. 'Strangeify!' Benjamin called out. Nothing happened. He sighed. 'Inferniate!' Benjamin shouted. Success, and Greg was now on fire:
'That does it!' Greg growled angrily. He leapt towards Benjamin and a fight ensued:
Benjamin was giving it his all. 'Put them up! PUT THEM UP!' Greg yelled in frustration as Benjamin sneaked behind him. Princess Roddy was out on a night time walk and saw what was going on:
'Getting some exercise, Dad?' Princess Roddy asked telepathically. 'You could say that, my boy!' Benjamin replied telepathically, grappling the werewolf:
Benjamin won. 'I'll get you next time, Benjamin Furystrykar!' Greg snarled:
'I'd like to see you try!' Benjamin said, smugly. Princess Roddy giggled as Greg scarpered back into his old cabin. He had been put in his place by a spellcaster. Princess Roddy and Benjamin Furystrykar went back home. When they got back to Dianthus Hall, Shine greeted them. She looked at the various scratches and bite marks on her husband. 'Had a fight with Greg?' she asked. 'Yep.' Benjamin replied. 'Who won?' Shine enquired. 'Me.' Benjamin replied. Shine chuckled and healed her amazing husband's wounds. Later, Benjamin, Princess Roddy and Sophia read werewolf literature:
And after that, Benjamin played the guitar for a while:
He enjoyed playing his guitars!
The happiest family in San Myshuno knew that their time together would come to an end before long. But for now, they would enjoy one another as much as they could.
Their beloved late-in-life baby Cassie had a beautiful bedroom with Anaya's bright paintings on the wall
Cassie aged up into an angelic toddler (of course)... with a manic-pixie sense of fashion
They enjoyed having a little one around especially
They also enjoyed their grown daughter Billie, when they could work their way into her busy schedule
Anytime Cassie was in bed was time for the favorite adult activities.
On Love Day, they paid a visit to their dear friends the Rasoyas. Anaya is the kind of friend who remembers that Raj is single and unflirty and might appreciate some extra appreciation and non-romantic companionship on this day. The visit included the Rasoyas' cat Ducks who is unaccountably famous now (I have no idea)
Later, they hired a nanny and went on a date.
"Why does it always snow inside the karaoke bar?"
"That is one of the great mysteries of the city, sweetheart."
"Feel like a tune?"
"Always."
Humor and Hijinks came. Cassie is officially the first person in this save to meet a certain enthusiastic red-headed new arrival to the city. She's only a toddler but I feel like she's the right character to meet her first, somehow.
Cassie told her first joke at the festival. She had an appreciative audience.
And, well, the cruel march of time. (Sorry, everyone. We're at the point where the OG Adult premades are running out of time...)
(From left to right at this funeral lunch: Raj Rasoya (behind Anaya), Anaya, Cassie, Billie, Tanvi Savalani, and Tanvi's children Laila Benali (with Salim) and Sai Savalani (with her ex-husband).)
Anaya paints, and spends plenty of time with Cassie and her friends. She'll be okay. But she isn't going to change aspirations. It's the half-completed Soulmates aspiration for her forever.
Wyrd Girls - Beth's Moon
Beth was tense. The full moon was rising tonight, and she was worried. Nick had had first change on the last moon but, unlike her twin, Beth hadn't. She knew her father loved her, but she worried about disappointing him by not carrying the legacy of the wolf. Her skin felt too tight.
It was Nick's idea to call Jake and Miranda over and head down to the lake. To distract her, he said.
Right Nick. No other motives at all.
... even if the boys were being weird around Miranda.
It was nice to play in the cool water and just be together...
... and really nice to be near Jake. Lately, Beth felt better when she was close to him.
That night, Nick brought her to up to the top of the rock for a howl...
... her skin felt tight. Her body didn't seem to be the right shape anymore. Oh God, this was it! She was changing.
She was a wolf!
She ran and ran and ran, for the pure joy of running under the moon.
Morning found her back on the rock, watching the sun rise and smelling all the scents on the breeze.
"I wanted to see if you were OK," Miranda said. "Nick said you were going up here last night and I thought you might come back when... when you were done. How... I mean... what is it like."
"It's terrifying... and thrilling," Beth said. "Wonderful and horrible and just amazing. I feel... like myself. Really myself, for the first time."
"Thank you," Beth added. "For coming up to check on me."
"Hey, what are friends for?" Miranda smiled.
Meet Lizzie Pizzazz, the girl with the most Z's in the city.
(Also the first baby born biologically to a same-sex couple, via alien technology. Bess has connections.)
Lizzie is very social but also fussy. So she loves her family's frequent pleasant dinners with friends
But any dinner can turn into this at any point.
Penny and Bess's older (adopted) son Sterling loves soccer and fashion. He made a beauty video "Makeup Can Be For Boys Too" which earned him some teasing at school from a few of the boys. But then the video earned a Starlight Accolade nomination. And now a few of the other boys at school are rocking foundation and nail polish. So Sterling feels like a cool trendsetter.
He loves doing puppet shows for moms and Diego (who lives next door): the good kind of drama
Penny is a professional trendsetter... her work outfits just get weirder and weirder
Her styleboard recently exploded with confetti and gained a few pieces of cloth. Does anyone know what this means? The options on the board are all the same unless I'm missing something.
Bess is working hard both as an eco-technician and as the owner of the Spark-n-Fizz shop for upgraded appliances and fizzy juices. The customers love her stuff
I guess that must be some very high quality kombucha?
Yeah, okay, she does make some very high quality kombucha, didn't realize that could happen
Bess's best buds Knox and Jules are good bro company. They talk all things eco, work on logic and bounce concept ideas off each other.
Bess might be involved in some shady investments, but when it comes to public safety, she hates shady stuff with a passion. She blew the whistle on a project that could have compromised the water supply.
Ruffled some feathers, but Bess doesn't care about that. She got promoted to Eco-Tech Scientist after this.
Penny got a promotion too! She landed a high-profile last-minute styling gig for a celebrity's gown
Penny and Bess decided to underwrite this year's Pride celebration at Myshuno Court. I've posted about this elsewhere but here are pictures under the spoiler. It was fun creating a special-occasion version of the venue. Both the regular and Pride versions are saved in my library so I can easily swap them in and out for the special event day. The My Wedding Stories aisles worked well as a parade route. I ran into trouble trying to hire vendors for more than one stall-- they charged S100 every time but only one vendor at a time would show up. Anyhow, at least we got the DJ.
Another special-occasion version of a venue: the Casbah Arts Center hosted its first Family Film Night! This will happen every summer.
The real star of the show as always is this pretty city.
Makin' me homesick, San Myshuno.
On YouTube: Simmin' with MsDSweets - Enjoy, Comment, Like and Subscribe!
On Flickr: MsDSweets on Flickr
http://www.getfreeebooks.com/star-trek-original-series-fan-fiction-trilogy/
Ditto this. I’m enjoying the story so far. Question is, will Miranda and Nick be a pair? I’m curious about Alexander Goth though.
I’m looking forward to when I can get the Werewolves pack. I think I’ll save getting it for another arc of my story. I have so many ideas brewing for Werewolves!
Right now, I’m still a third of the way into my Darkfin Arc.
———————
Based on the discussion and the poll I started, I’m thinking my Alexander will either be a spellcaster or merman.
I’m thinking of saving Alexander’s choice for later in the summer season, after I age up Juniper and Jade.
So far, my rough idea about Alexander is that he is Ember’s Childhood Friend that eventually became her boyfriend. Ember, Alex, and Lucas Munch we’re close friends growing up. None of Ember’s friends knew that she came from a Family of Elementals. They don’t know that merfolk are real.
Alex has now moved in with Ember, and the home they moved into was the old home that Calum and Arihi raised Dylan and Zeph in.
Now that Alex is moved in with Ember, he will be living very close to the Reef Merfolk of Sulani, the Mua Pel’Am Pod.
I’m calling the appearance of most of my merfolk “Reef” because of their colorful appearance. I’m thinking that any human that eats mermadic kelp will transform into a reef variant of merfolk.
I’m thinking about introducing another variant of merfolk to my story, the Deep Sea variant. But that will come from somewhere else.
With Erik’s help, Kayleigh got the children to bed. It was late, later than she preferred. Erik got them bathed one after the other and Kayleigh tucked them in.
“I just saying night-night to Barfly. Why his name Barfly?”
“I don't really know. You need to ask Jamison why he hasn’t changed it. I think he may have been trying to say Barney, but it came out wrong. Come on, hop into bed. Mommy can’t lift you right now, Doctor’s orders.”
“Mommy, baby?” She said, patting her mother’s bulging midriff.
“Yes, and soon, I’m thinking.”
“Night-night.”
“Night-night, Sweetie.”
Erik had finally finished his deliberation. Despite the song he wrote about Llamas, he decided a cow would give them more. With as many little mouths to feed as they had, knowing there would be an endless supply of milk on hand, was a comfort. He was outside making the Cow’s acquaintance, when Kayleigh went into labor.
Pulling his vibrating phone out of his pocket, he read the text. “Erik, it’s go-time!”
“Gotta go, Magster.”
Rushing inside, Erik took a quick moment to wash his hands. He wanted to change his clothes, but one look at his wife’s face told him they needed to go —now. He hollered at Aylin, to let her know she was on Child Duty and left with his wife. He was very glad Henford-on-Bagley Community Hospital was nearby. Since this was not her first child, Kayleigh was admitted immediately. She was checked by one Obstetrician and then took herself out to the wide hallway to use her exercise ball to help expedite her labor. Erik followed and began to play and sing to help distract his wife from the pain.
Just as their first experience, this proved a not-so-good idea. Pretty soon, the couple weren’t alone.
“I should have known,” he sang. “and I’m sorry, Babe. I hope you will forgive me . . .”
“Woah, now I’m really sorry,” he continued to sing, just making it up as he went along. “Darling, Darling, I’m so for---ever sorry.”
When it was time for Kayleigh to be checked again, she walked back into the examination room. “Joey! Oh, my goodness, what happened to Dr. Goodman?”
“He went home. I was a tad late in getting here. This is my shift. New guy, I always get the late night shifts.”
“Well, this is only slightly awkward,” she said climbing onto the exam table, with Joey's help.
“I can get another physician to take over, if you prefer.”
“No, no. You’re the Obstetrician on duty. Besides you have to deliver a baby, don’t you?”
“Yeah, how did you know?”
“Astrid and I keep tabs with each other.”
At that moment, Erik came into the room. “Joe,” he said. “Don’t know why, but I didn’t expect to see you here.”
“This is where you work, after all. Huh. Glad to see you, Bro.”
Kayleigh went back to her exercises. The two followed her into the corridor. Happily, it was now devoid of Sims. While Kayleigh bounced and stretched on the ball, the brothers busily chatted, catching up with each other.
“That’s okay, just means you’re dilating. You’re almost there.”
“Ohhhh, Joey, something’s happening.”
“Okay, let’s get you into the Delivery Room S.T.A.T.”
Kayleigh was on the table. Joey checked her and then stood back. “Oh, will you look at that!”
“Joey?”
“So, that’s what they mean by crowning. Wow. This is so exciting. One more push and we’re home free. That’s good. That’s good. Okay, hold up. You can stop pushing now. Take a breather.”
“Hello, I’m your uncle Joe,” he said, as he leaned over to catch the child. “
Carefully, Joey gently pulled the baby out the rest of the way, He placed him on his mother’s chest. “Just a little skin-on-skin,” he said. “Here you go, it’s a boy!”
“Hello, Andrew.”
“Erik, you better not be taping this!”
“Relax, Babe, I would never violate your privacy. Just capturing enough of the moment, leaving your dignity intact. I promise. Have I ever lied to you?”
When they got home again, they placed Andrew in his bassinet and then went upstairs to check on their other children. Shockingly, their little beds were empty. “Outside?” Erik suggested. They went out back to have a look. No children. The chickens were there, the cow was there. But the children were nowhere to be seen. Trying very hard not to panic, Erik ran downstairs to the basement. He was back up again in an instant. “Not here, either.”
“Where’s Aylin? Do you think she could have taken them all for a walk?”
“I don’t know.” Erik shoved his way through the livingroom glass French door. Hearing noises, he walked over to the end of the room. “Here, they are,” Erik said.
“Phew, I thought I was going to have a heart-attack.”
“We have to have a talk with Aylin,” Kayleigh said. I miss Yumika.
Just a few days later, Kayleigh deemed herself up to caring for their animals. These duties never fell to the Butler. It was strictly up to Erik and Kayleigh. She found the cow and commenced getting to know her.
“Looks like you could use a milking. Bear with me, I’m new at this.”
“Oh, look, milk’s coming out. I’m doing it! I’m doing it!” And then she laughed with glee.
“Ha-ha,” she giggled, this is actually fun!”
More to come. Thanks for reading!
http://www.getfreeebooks.com/star-trek-original-series-fan-fiction-trilogy/
@Metior_Ice, ask and you shall receive. I been banking stuff to bring Xander into the story... so this is a little backstory to catch you up on where he is in my story.
=============
Wyrd Girls - When Did Everything Go Wrong?
Xander Goth couldn't help but wonder, when did everything go wrong.
It had all started out so great...
Finally, in college, that closeness burst in passion!
The wedding was wonderful...
... but that perfect day, looking back now, maybe hadn't been so perfect.
Still, Cassandra had said she was OK with him being there. It had been years go and Don was a part of Miranda's life.
But why invite him at all?
They were just co-workers, after all.
Elsa barely knew him.
After the wedding, things seemed OK.
He knew Elsa would complain to Oliva...
... they were really close friends after all.
He would talk about his problems to his friends, too...
... Lilith was such a good listener.
In the end they would always make up.
Until that night...
Well, she had fun...
... a little more much fun than Xander was OK with.
They tried to talk it out...
... but this time, they just couldn't make it work.
He was still moving out and into his new place, when the police brought him the news about Cassie, Gwen and Miranda.
In just a few days, Xander had lost his marriage, his sister and his niece.
When did everything go wrong?
Kayleigh and Erik spent many a conversation trying to sort out just why Yumika left them so abruptly. They both made a concerted effort to praise her, which wasn’t hard, she was so very good at what she did. So dedicated and she appeared to have a genuine affection for the children. Besides, her cleaning skills were amazing. Everything was always sparkling clean around here. Erik tried calling the Agency, but was told there was a Confidentiality Clause. They weren’t at liberty to say.
Aylin Lunsford was nice enough, but concerns had arisen with the quality of her work. Kayleigh grew increasingly alarmed whenever they came home to find her children, angry, hungry, their diapers soaked because the Potty chairs were left unkempt. She sincerely thought about setting up Nanny Cams around the house, lest her children should be sorely abused by the Butler, whose primary job was Caretaker.
“It’s okay, Harmoany,” Jamison tried to console. “Chips are tasty.”
The parents also knew things were off. Once again the children had gotten overtly naughty.
Harmony wasn’t the only offender. Melodie went on an entire spree. Erik drew in a breath when he came upon her using cocoa powder, flour and who knew what else to create a mess on the living room floor. “Melodie, I have had enough of your disobedience. This has got to stop. Come here. It’s high time you learn to say you’re sorry.”
Less defiant than usual, Erik began to wonder if his words were finally getting into that thick little skull of hers. He did hope so.
“That’s right. When you do naughty things you say you’re sorry.”
“So I say sorry, Daddy and I go to bed?”
“Yes, that’s how it is. Are you sorry?”
“Yeah, okay.” She was almost in tears. Defeated in a manner he had never seen before. What is going on around here?
One early evening, Sandi came to call. Kayleigh, delighted, invited her in. Erik was busy out front having a photoshoot. Why he chose to do so in this cool weather, she didn’t quite know. But then she realized she was due any minute. And he probably didn’t want to be away. She did know he’d given another interview. Another nomination brought the Paparazzi out in droves. She imagined it interrupted the photoshoot. She knew he had to be cold, too, wearing just a long-sleeved turtleneck shirt.
The interview done, it was back to posing.
She was also surprised that Yumika was at the front gate, too. She was also invited in. She led her guests into the ‘family room’ end of the Great Room.
Taking her seat Kayleigh began, “Yumika, we all really miss you so much. Was there something we did that upset you? You left without a word.” Kayleigh noticed that Yumika remained standing, which troubled her. She knew Yumika wasn’t planning on staying long, if at all. She also noted that the Butler refused eye-contact with her former boss. This was disturbing.
“I’m so sorry about that. Please forgive my behavior. No, there wasn’t anything any of you did. It’s me. I was getting far too invested in your family. How are the children? I do miss them so.”
Before Kayleigh could answer, Erik came back into the house. The photoshoot must have concluded. Kayleigh noticed he had changed into his sweater. She watched as he walked into the kitchen, “Sweetheart, there’s coffee in the pot to help warm you up.”
“Thanks, Babe,” he called back.
“Oh, please excuse me,” Yumika said, “I wanted to have a word with Mr. Cantrell.” That quickly, she left the room.
Erik looked up as their former Butler walked through the archway into the kitchen.
“No, sir, I wasn’t poached. Sir, I-I-ah. This is so hard for me to say. I loved working for you and your family. I really did. Every minute. But, I’ve also been a fan of yours for years.”
“Oh?”
“Yes. To come to work for you was a thrill of a lifetime. You can’t even imagine Only, what I didn’t expect was just how very sweet and kind you are — and not just when the camera is on you. But genuinely nice. just the way I knew you would be.” She paused for a moment. Erik patiently waited to hear her out. She began again, “I-ah. Well, the truth is I found myself becoming more than just a fan. I fell in love with you,” she suddenly blurted, “so I had to go. Your wife is just so sweet, too. I couldn’t remain. I still can’t bring myself to look her in the eyes. The last thing I ever wanted to do was to hurt your family. I got to a point I wasn’t sure I could hold back anymore. You understand, don’t you? Please, say you understand.”
“I don’t know what to say,” Erik said after a long pause. ‘I respect your reasons and I appreciate how awkward and uncomfortable you must have become. Living here with us. And that you had the Agency send along another Butler to replace you. We will always miss you, Yumika. And we still consider you a part of our family.”
Sobbing, Yumika turned to leave. “Thank you, sir. I shall miss all of you, too. Goodbye.”
In another moment, Erik stripped off the sweater finding himself too warm. He sat at the kitchen table to have the cup of coffee he’d poured moments ago.
What am I supposed to say to Kayleigh? It’s my fault she’s gone.
More to Come. Thanks for reading!
http://www.getfreeebooks.com/star-trek-original-series-fan-fiction-trilogy/
Wyrd Girls - A Life
It was late, but the sounds of life still thrummed in the surrounding apartments. It didn't matter to him. No one would interrupt... and the locked door was no barrier at all.
Elsa, your mind is mine. Your will is mine. You will obey.
"There you are," he said softly. "She is yours now, Max. As I promised."
"Why are you bothering me?"
"Forgive me, my lord but he is asking for you. I think it's nearly time."
"I'll be right there."
"Should you really be eating those... things, my lad" Vlad asked.
"I'm an old man now, Vlad. One more hot dog isn't going to kill me," Jacques shrugged.
"You know you only ever had to ask, my lad," Vlad said quietly.
"Immortality... fah," Jacques smiled.
"What do I want with immortality?" he continued. "I've lived, Vlad. Oh, let's not call it a good life... we can be honest tonight, you and I... I am a liar, a thief and a murderer. Still, the police can't touch me. The Families respect me. I have all the money I might want. I have a family... two sons to carry my name and a daughter who has surpassed them both! I have a grandchild. That... that is my immortality!"
"By the way, I know you've taken my young Max under your wing," Jacques added. "I would ask you to leave him alone, but I'm sure you've seen a use for him. So, I know you'd just lie and take him anyway."
"My dear lad..." Vlad started.
"Be honest, old man," Jacques laughed. "Just for tonight, be honest with me."
"Now, I know you've started to move," Jacques said. "Max is rising in the Organization... under your guidance. Once I'm gone, only the Landgraabs will stand between you and control over the Families. I'm sure you have a plan for them already. You've killed Cassandra Goth and the Silveroak girl... best not let Mortimer learn about that."
"Mortimer doesn't worry me," Vlad said.
"Your people have even gotten rid of that meddlesome reporter, Kim-Lewis," Jacques nodded knowingly.
"You're almost ready... but remember, old man, people aren't just pieces on the chess board even for you. Something out there may surprise you yet"
"Probably something you least expect."
"Good night, old man," Jacques said. "Maybe we'll talk again before it's over."
“I just had a sit-down with Aylin,” Erik said, walking into the Master Suite.
Andrew was asleep in his bassinet, he gave a tiny sigh. The other children were playing happily outdoors on their gym. Giggles filled the air, the window slightly ajar for some fresh air. Erik took a quick peek at them. The day was a bright, sunshiny day — a nice break from all of the torrential rains they had been having, of late. When did we move to the Tropics?
“And,” Kayleigh prompted her husband. She knew Erik hated confrontations. He often grew quiet, contemplative, as if he feared saying the wrong thing. Kayleigh regretted having to push him into doing what she knew in her heart was the only thing open to them.
“She said she would try to do better.” He shrugged, sticking his hands into the front pockets of his jeans.
“So you only scolded her,” she said. “Erik, I thought we agreed to dismiss her altogether.”
“I tried, but she insisted we give her another chance and that she would do better.”
“I don’t care,” Kayleigh shouted. “She has to go. And she has to go today!” Kayleigh fired the pillows onto the top of their bed. Erik ducked, certain, hers was just a poor aim and that he truly was the target of her wrath. And rightly so. I failed you, again.
In the end Kayleigh was the one who fired Aylin. She sat down with the Butler at the kitchen table and they began to discuss all manner of things. This was the long overdue ‘interview’ the couple never had with their new, unexpected employee. Kayleigh’s heart sank.
“Actually, Ma’am, I hate children. And I dislike cleaning up after others, too.”
“What? Why did you take this job? It’s on our account that we primarily need a Butler willing to do childcare on top of housekeeping duties!”
Aylin had an odd look on her face. “I needed the job,” she said. “And I had no idea your children were such brats. Undisciplined, unruly, impudent Brats, all four of them. And now you’ve got five!”
Kayleigh closed her big blue eyes for only a moment. Then she looked up at the Butler, no longer seated and said, oh, so calmly, “You’re fired.”
“Fine, you still owe me two hundred-seventy-seven Simoleons for today.”
“Fine.” Kayleigh took out her phone and sent the credits to the woman. “Please pack your bags and go.”
That Sunday was the Starlight Accolade Show. Joey and Astrid, having learned about the Butler, offered to come sit the children so that Kayleigh could also get out of the house, if even for one evening. The children were very happy to see their aunt and uncle and threw their little arms about them both. “Now I know how you feel when your fans swarm around you,” Joey said, smiling. “Take it easy, there’s plenty of me to go around. We have the whole evening together. What do you say we get some dinner and watch Daddy on TV tonight?”
“Yeah!”
“Thanks, Joe. Astrid.”
“Kay-Kay, the music is on, come on!”
Taking their seats, the room was in an uproar.
Finally, the Host took his place before the microphone and officially opened the Show. “Good Evening, one and all. Welcome to the Starlight Accolades! First up, for an amazing, unexpected performance we have Hilomi Yamizaki, for Best Actress!”
“For Best Actor, we have Dustin Broke! Now, there’s a mystery. Congratulations!”
“Whoa-ho-ho, who knew, am I right?”
“And not the least of which we now come to the Music Category. For bringing such aural beauty to ears around the world, this week’s Best Song goes to — I don’t believe this. Erik Cantrell for his, All Things Worthy. Sixteen! What a ride, you‘re having. Congratulations!”
Clearing his throat, twice, he said, “Mr. Frost, you’re not the only one in disbelief. I can hardly believe it myself.”
“It is with the utmost pleasure that I accept this honor, once again.”
“I have several Sims to thank, but mostly, I have You, my Lord.”
“Thank you to the Starlight Academy, to my lovely wife, Kayleigh, our five children, my entire family, my fans, my record label, Taygeta Studios, the music company who schedules all of my concerts, Orion Entertainment, Limited, to my parents, my priest and my Church family, who all have stood in support of my efforts, I could never have made it this far without any of you. I love you, All.”
“There comes a time in any Artist’s life when he feels adrift. Lost at sea. Unworthy. These are some dark times. I have felt that way a bit most recently. But, then Sunday rolls around and I am reminded there is meaning to what I do. That somehow, somewhere, just maybe my music brings a little something to someone. Perhaps a little sunshine after all the rain. And it makes my work worthwhile. Gives meaning to what I do. Thank you for that.”
“Thank you so much for keeping me afloat. Without you, I would have surely drowned years ago. This is for you, too. I love you All.”
“Children, go to bed. Mommy and I will be home soon. Good night, Everybody and thank you, again.”
All for now. Thanks for reading! So good to be caught up again.
http://www.getfreeebooks.com/star-trek-original-series-fan-fiction-trilogy/
wow, Vlad and his friend are very interesting. Can't wait to see what comes from that.
Yeah, I didn't plan any of it. The game, again, gave me a bonus. Yumika just left the house one day. I saw her at one of Erik's Events and she had the Fan notation over her name. That's when I knew what I had to write about. Glad you enjoyed it.
http://www.getfreeebooks.com/star-trek-original-series-fan-fiction-trilogy/
(or well, unless whatever Vlad did to Elsa supersedes communication)