#expressionist generation

[gnattyplayssims]

1979 Pt2 - A Tragic Choice

The weeks following the Landgraab wedding things did get a bit better. Kyle tried to at least offer his help on occasion and Ava found herself more and more...confused.

"The kids are in bed...do you...um..."

"If you're asking for woohoo the answer is definitely yes!"

Kyle pulled her over the couch and into his lap, "Or...if you just want to lie here..."

"Is that okay?" He brushed his hand through her hair.

"I just want you to be happy, Ava. You were feeling nauseous earlier."

"I still am a bit but it's okay."

"Where? Here?"

"Ah! stop!"

Ava pouted "I said I feel sick why would you tickle me?"

"I'm sorry, I was being silly. Come here." He pulled her to his lap "I know I've messed up a lot but I still want to make us work Ava." He looked at her expectantly. "Do you want that?"

She could only answer with a kiss.

Truthfully, Ava wasn't sure what she wanted. Her and Kyle would be full adults soon and she had never felt more lost...

"Ava?"

"What are you doing here Nancy?"

"Kyle called, he said you're refusing to get out of bed. He didn't know what to do. He thought you'd talk to me."

Nancy looked uncomfortable sitting there on the bed trying to look comforting but it was enough to break down Ava's walls. "I've plumbed everything up Nancy."

"Why? What happened?"

"I'm pregnant."

"Oh...um...well I know you didn't want anymore but-"

"It's not Kyle's."

The room fell silent as Nancy processed Ava's words and the longer she stayed silent the more Ava shattered. "Oh Watcher what have I done?"

"Have you considered ending it?"

"I'm not getting rid of my child!"

"I mean I've...nevermind. There might be another option."

By the time Nancy left, Ava knew beyond a shadow of doubt that Andrew could not stay in her life. The thought of having a child with him had suddenly made everything clear. She'd finally give into Kyle and in a couple weeks tell him she was pregnant. He'd be none the wiser.

"Ava what are you doing here?"

"We need to talk."

"You look like you need a drink."

"No I don't want a drink. I'm pregnant."

"Excuse me."

"It's Kyle's."

A shadow fell over Andrew, "You're gonna get rid of it then."

"No..."

"I don't do pregnant girlfriends."

Anger flooded Ava "Good cause I'm not your girlfriend"

"So what? You're back with your husband now? You let him mark you and now you're screwing both of us? How do you know it's not mine? How could you let this happen, Ava?"

The more Andrew yelled the more Ava shut down.

"Oh and now you're going to start crying? The hormones getting to you already?"

"You're a llama's ass." His hand connected with her face so fast it left them both in shock. "Gah look what you made me do. I didn't mean that, you're just making me so angry."

"You...you hit me."

A switch flipped in Ava's mind.

"You know when I was a child, I came out of my room one night to find my step-father leering over my mother like you are right now. Do you know what I did? I bit him. 15 times before he managed to get me off. I don't intend to go to jail tonight..."

Leaving Andrew's house Ava was more determined to make things right. She chose a shirt Kyle had gifted her for their 1st anniversary and some jewelry that she never wore and headed to the bar where he liked to get drinks after work.

"I got you a root beer...with a little spice."

Ava's eyes settled on the couple on the other side of the bar. A beautiful woman leaning seductively over a man. Her blood turned to ice when she realized it was Kyle. Surely he would push the woman away. He would notice his wife standing there and come running to her.

But Kyle's eyes never left hers. He could hardly hide the way his body reacted when she pressed her knee against him. Then she was leaning in, kissing him and Kyle kissed her back.

Ava wanted to be angry. She wanted to grab the woman by her hair and scream...

But even as the thought entered her mind she knew...she'd already lost. How could she scream at her husband for kissing another woman when she was carrying the child of another man.

"Julianna..."

"I know. Honestly...it was worth the restraining order. Enjoy the sarsaparilla."

Ava's hands were shaking as she put the quarters into the pay phone and dialed Nancy's number. "It's me..." a sob welled up in her throat, "Can...can you come get me?"

"Ava, are you okay?"

"No...I was too late Nancy. Our marriage is really over. I can't have this baby."

"Oh no...where are you?"

"The bar."

"I'll be right there." Ava hung up the phone. She felt like she's was floating. Her hand settled over her stomach. Her stomach fluttered and she told herself it was just butterflies but it wasn't just butterflies with Marie...or the twins.

Nancy had to take Ava across the bridge into Del Sol Valley to find a clinic so it was late when Ava got home.

"Hey...how was girls night? Celeste said the kids were angels. She offered to let them spend the night but I knew you wouldn't like that on a school night."

Kyle continued to ramble for a bit before finally noticing Ava's silence. "Is everything okay?"

She threw her arms around him, clinging to him. Nothing was right inside her but maybe for a moment she could hold onto what little remained of her marriage.

"What's going on?"

Ava pulled herself away without responding. She was fine...everything was fine. The countdown on her marriage was ending. She could feel it. At least there wouldn't be another infant to worry about.

Tomorrow she'd start to make a plan. She was on her own...she always had been.

1980 Pt1 - A Day in the Life of Kyle

[gnattyplayssims]

1987 Pt2 - The Accident

Kyle woke with a start his eyes scrambling to make sense of his surroundings and settling on the clock. It'd only been 20min since the last time he looked at it.

He felt okay when he was doing things but when he closed his eyes weird dreams plagued him.

"It's just the pills wearing off. You gotta push past this point."

He glanced at his wife sleeping oblivious next to him. He could do it. Another night and it would get easier. But he'd said that last night and it was was harder.

He had to stop thinking of Andrew.

He reached under the mattress and pulled out the bottle. Only 5 left.

He wouldn't buy more but maybe one tonight to help him relax? Then he'd try to go longer before the next one.

He sighed and put them back under the mattress. Just knowing they were there was comfort enough.

The next morning Nancy came to visit. "Oh how's my favorite infant? Come to Auntie Ava."

Nancy handed Malcolm over and Ava cooed over him. "We're moving back to Oasis Springs."

"Wait what?! Hang on let's go upstairs. Marie will be calling soon but I want to hear everything."

"Apparently Geoffrey used his inheritance as a bargaining chip to break off my previous engagement. My dad's been trying to get land here forever and Geoffrey basically gave him Anchorpoint. It gained him a lot of respect and now my dad wants to leave us the company."

"That's amazing!"

"Yeah. There's only one problem."

"What's that?"

"Dudley...my dad still doesn't know about him and I don't want to reveal him and lose everything. Plus the kid is hardly a Landgraab. He wants to attend some music school in Del Sol which I'm happy to provide."

"How does Celeste feel about that?"

"She wants him to follow his dreams and I have the checkbook, she's not complaining. Geoffrey thinks I'm shipping him off cause I don't want to deal with him but it's what he wants. What do you think?"

"I think..."

Just then the phone rang.

Ava scrambled to pick it up. Marie always called after scouts. She'd keep it short today since she had company but she still liked to hear her voice. "Hello. Kyleson residence."

"Ava?" A man's voice met her ear. It was familiar but the tremble set off alarms in her mind.

"Dad?"

Nikolas cleared his throat and it was his steady police voice that greeted her next. "Ava...there's been an accident. We're still trying to figure out what happened but...you and Kyle need to get here as soon as possible."

"Dad...is Marie okay?"

"I don't know baby."

Ava hung up the phone, trying to process the news. Nancy finally seemed to notice that the phone call hadn't been good. "Marie get a bad grade?"

"No Nancy!" She snapped, "Marie is in the hospital. I have to go to Copperdale."

"Oh well...I guess I'll figure out Dudley myself

The sun was shining far too brightly for the shadow that hung over the small Copperdale hospital. "What do you mean you don't know?"

"I'm sorry sir but I'm just the receptionist. The doctor is in surgery that's all I can tell you cause that's all I know."

"I highly doubt that."

"Kyle please. We all want answers." Sofia scolded her son-in-law as she came from the back room.

"Mom!" Sofia embraced her daughter. "Is she okay?"

"One of my men on the scene said Marie had been driving but she swirved. Toby was thrown from the vehicle. They...found drugs."

Nikolas had pulled some strings to get them a more comfortable and private waiting room right outside the OR so they would know the second the doc was out of surgery. The wait was torture.

"I shouldn't have let her stay."

"Don't Ava. We couldn't have known. She wanted to stay."

Finally the doctor arrived and Kyle jumped up to greet him. "Well?"

"She's got some broken bones and she'll be on crutches for a few months but I'm happy to say her and the baby are doing fine."

"Baby?" Ava looked like someone spit in her drink. "What baby?"

"I'm sorry I assumed you knew...Marie is nearing her second trimester. Thankfully for her the impact was mostly on the passenger side of the vehicle."

"Oh." Kyle glanced at his in-laws. "Can we see her?"

"Yes. But she's still waking up so...take it slow. Not too many questions"

Ava rushed to Marie's side and Kyle hung back not wanting to bombard her as soon as she came to. His head was spinning. Pregnant? He was going to be a grandfather? He was only 37! Much too young to have a grandbaby and he was still figuring out his own life.

"Mom?"

Kyle jumped to his feet when he heard his daughter's voice. Tears sprang to Marie's eyes when she saw him and her voice broke. "Dad? I...I really messed up didn't I?"

"Hey don't worry about that right now. We're just glad you...and the baby...are okay."

"You know about that?"

"You're still a minor baby girl."

"You're not mad."

"Well it's not what your mother and I wanted for you this young but no we're not mad."

"I...want to keep it."

Kyle smiled proudly, "Okay baby. We'll figure it out. Just focus on getting better so we can take you home."

Meanwhile, things on the other side of the curtain were not going so well. Sofia knew there would be no recovery even before Nikolas said the words.

"The doctor said we should say our goodbyes."

Sofia fell to her knees and Nikolas pulled her close. There were no words.

Sofia pulled her son's lifeless form to her and Nikolas knew she would need a moment. He needed his own moment. He stumbled from the room. Trying to contain the overwhelming emotion. He gripped the counter and took a steadying breath.

They'd make it through...they always did...

1988 Pt1 - The Flame Goes Out

[gnattyplayssims]

1989 Pt2 - Mizrahi's Are Forever

It was late one night when Kyle whispered Ava's name and brushed the hair from her face.

"Kyle? Baby what is it?"

"I can't sleep."

"Are you having a craving?

"Yeah...but it's not that bad...I just can't sleep until I tell you something."

She sat up concerned.

She cupped his face, "What ever it is we'll work through it."

"It's nothing like that." She traced the scruff of his jaw and he pulled her hands away to kiss them. "I, Kyle Kyleson take you Ava Mizrahi in sickness and in health, richer and poorer, good times and bad..."

He wrapped his arms around her, "For as long as we both shall live."

"Kyle..."

"I didn't know what these words meant the first time. How bad the bad stuff could be or how easy it is to point fingers and walk away. But you've never given up."

Ava swallowed and didn't speak.

There was a rustle at the door and Ava looked up "Mommy, is daddy okay?"

"Oh Sweetie yes. Sometimes even adults cry but these are good tears. Come here. Daddy needs all the love he can get." Alora and Ajax came closer and wrapped their arms around Kyle. "I, Ava Mizrahi..."

It was a rainy day but Kyle was lying on his back in the mud trying to get the van fixed for their weekend trip to San Myshuno.

Kyle had been keeping busy since graduating the program Ava was proud...but also feeling a bit neglected.

"Oh hey Babe, perfect timing."

Kyle waved her over pointing at the window. "Could you let me know if the light on the dash is turning on."

She peered in the window, "I don't see anything."

"Keep looking. I'm gonna try something else. How bout now?"

"Still nothing. Kyle, maybe we should take it to a...oh."

She grinned "You're teasing me aren't you?"

"The light fuses are under the hood. You didn't think I'd notice those pants did you?"

"I was a little disappointed."

She sat in front of him, "No ma'am, you need to change into something...warmer and I need to finish this car."

San Myshuno was buzzing as usual as the three Gilbertson Heirs made their way to the Humor and Hijinks festival.

"How bout we split boys vs girls and see which is better." Geoffrey teased.

"Only if we get to be the Pranksters." Celeste shot back.

"Hope you're ready to lose."

"I don't know if this is such a good idea. We both know Ava and I can be pretty cutthroat."

"And I can't be?"

"Well I've never seen it...on second thought maybe you should join the jokesters."

"Then it's wouldn't be boys vs girls."

"Okay enough. The boys are already starting"

The competition was on. Kyle and Chris took turns telling jokes and Geoffrey...well he attempted to juggle which was pretty funny.

Ava and Nancy channelled their Rude Introduction skills, while Celeste made use of the hand buzzer. Then all 3 women began tagging the sidewalk

But in the end it was the Jokesters that ended up pulling out ahead and the girls had to admit that maybe they'd lost their hard edge. Laughing they headed to the Bubble Lounge.

"You gonna be okay with this Kyle?"

"This is non-basemental so I should be good. thanks sis."

"So...has everything been figured out."

"Gloria Gilbertson was a brilliant woman. She was dealt a bad hand but she wasn't sloppy with the men she chose. My dad spent his entire lawyer career looking for loopholes. Made Andrew skittish."

"He skipped town."

"So that's it then..."

Geoffrey was exhausted of all the talk of inheritance. His mother's expectations had always been too much pressure and now he was walking into a bigger fortune

"Thought I'd find you out here."

"The fireworks are so pretty."

"Yeah."

"Part of me isn't ready to leave normal life behind"

"Nancy wait!" Celeste jumped up when she realized the Landgraab's were leaving. "I know you're heading out in the morning so I just wanted to make sure you had Dudley's new number."

"What for?"

"In case you...want to call him...see how he's doing...cause you're his mother."

"I think you misunderstood something Celeste. I sent Dudley to his dream school so that I'd never have to see him again. He understands that why can't you?"

"Because I thought we were doing this together. I thought he was your precious Landgraab heir."

"I have Malcolm now."

"Everytime I think you've changed you prove that you're still that mean high school witch. Forget it. Dudley never needed a second mom, he already has two perfectly loving parents. Dudley doesn't need you and he doesn't need the Landgraab's"

"Glad we're in agreement."

Ava suddenly seemed to notice their fighting and headed their way. "Is everything okay over here."

"Everything's just fine. If Nancy wants to act like her father she has that right. Just don't expect me to invite her to Harvestfest dinner. Be her friend if you want. I'm done."

Ava felt shaken by the fight between her friends. She knew Nancy was scared and hated goodbyes but she made a choice about Dudley and Celeste had every right to be angry about it.

"Man I'm tired."

Ava rolled over as Kyle pulled off his shirt and gave him a teasing whistle.

He began untying his shoes as she watched,

"I've been thinking...about the paperwork."

Ava rolled her eyes. "They're never gonna find that form."

"Well what if...we submit a new one...for me?"

"You...want to change your name."

"I don't really want to be a Kyleson anymore."

"Ugh being Mizrahi is miserable."

"Was that a pun. Are you making jokes now?"

"No stop." She slipped away from him running to the end of the bed. "You know I hate that."

Kyle knew when he'd pushed her too far...this wasn't it. He slipped to the edge of the bed.

Her eyes danced

She cupped his face. "Mizrahi's are forever not just till death. Do you think you can handle that?"

"For better or worse."

"Hmm. Kyle Mizrahi...I'm not sure if I like that."

"Shut up you know you love it."

"I don't hate it...but don't think you're taking my job as housewife."

Continue to Fast Generation

[gnattyplayssims]

1989 Pt1 - Not in Vain

"Everything okay in here?"

"You don't have to check on me Stefan. I'm fine."

"Sorry, you've just been in here a long time. I got worried."

Esteban reached out a hand to his husband. "You wouldn't be you if you didn't. But really, I've never felt better."

Stefan knelt beside the tub and took Esteban's hand. His eyes watered a bit when Esteban gave his hand a firm squeeze. He kissed him on the forehead to hide his tears. "I'm gonna go start dinner."

"Esteban pulled him into a deep kiss, "Dinner can wait," and then into the tub.

Stefan glared at Esteban "That wasn't funny."

"Then why are you smiling."

"I can't help it."

"Perhaps I should help you out of these wet clothes."

Stefan sighed and stripped, slipping behind Esteban and pulling him close. "How's that?"

Esteban leaned back. "Much better."

"Thank you for sticking with me Stefan. I know it wasn't easy"

"It wasn't. I'm sorry I made it harder. Wait I have something." Stefan slipped from the tub and dashed from the room dripping wet, returning a moment later with two champaigne glasses "I was gonna save it for dinner"

"Are you already drunk?"

Stefan chuckled "Only on you. There's a lot to celebrate. It's been 32 years since we met, you're healthy, and tomorrow we get to share a room at my sister's for the first time. I love you Esteban Beltran"

He didn't even give Esteban a chance to respond

The next day the family gathered in Copperdale once again. Sofia was quite excited that Ember seemed to take a shine to her. "Blue-eyed blonde just like her momma."

"Didn't get the Kyleson chin though."

"Wonder if she got the birthmark from her father."

"Only Marie knows."

Ember was tired from all the excitement and travel so Sofia set up the playpen and told her a story when she started to fuss.

Ava listened quietly remembering all the times she would listen to her mom's stories growing up and how they brought her peace. It seemed Ember agreed.

Soon the family settled down for dinner and after Kyle settled in for a nap beside his granddaughter.

Sofia found Marie in Toby's room. "It looks the same...except the plaque."

"Mrs. Marcella gave it to us. All the kids signed it."

"He was so excited about that play."

"He was."

"He always tried to make everyone laugh but on the stage...he...was different."

"Marie," Sofia grasped her granddaughter's face. "You know it wasn't your fault right."

Marie didn't respond. "I don't blame you and neither should you."

Sofia clutched her head, "Nana?"

"I'm okay. Just a little light-headed. I shouldn't overexert myself. It's just...your mother says you've been struggling to connect with Ember."

"I'm fine Nana."

She sniffled and Sofia pulled away, wiping a tear from her granddaughter's cheek. "You're allowed to mourn him."

Marie sighed in frustration.

"It's easier when there are physical wounds. You can see the progress. Know how far you've come. Emotional wounds take longer and you never quite know when you've healed."

"He saved her you know."

"What?"

"It's the only part I remember."

"You don't have to tell me."

"I don't remember much. I don't remember if he was high or if we were fighting or why I swirved...but when I did...his first instinct was to protect her." She placed her hand over her stomach. "If he hadn't he might be alive...but she..."

"Thank you"

Downstairs Ember was waking up and was hungry. "You sure you got it Papa?"

"Of course baby girl. This isn't my first time and Ember actually seems to like me."

Marie couldn't help but smile as her daughter settled contentedly against her great-grandpa's shoulder.

Esteban was watching with a small smile on his face. "Do you want to hold her?"

"Oh no. I have little experience with babies."

"She'll be taking another nap soon. You can hold her while she sleeps."

"Okay I'll give it a try."

Ember settled into his arms and gave a big yawn.

"Wow Esteban. You're a natural. Why didn't you have kids of your own?"

"Kyle that's a rude question."

"Oh...uh...right...I forgot. Sorry."

"It is okay. I once dreamed of having children of my own but I chose Stefan instead and I do not regret it."

"That's too bad."

"I'm sorry."

"For what, Nae Lee."

"That I couldn't give you kids. It was never an option so we never talked about it but...I had no idea"

"That's what you got out of that conversation? Stefan..." He kissed him "When Ember was placed in my arms, I was accepted into your family"

The sun went down and Kyle and Ava slipped outside for some peace and quiet "Do you feel that, Ava?"

"The cold? Yes, it's freezing out here"

Kyle laughed and pulled her closer, "No, silly." He rocked with her for a moment, letting the quiet of Copperdale settle over them, "Hope"

Later that night Ava and Kyle took the twins to Prescott Square for the evening and everyone else had settled in early. "Something's on your mind."

"Just thinking...about Toby"

"Oh...you talked to Marie?"

"Yes...I don't care what the reports say, he was a hero like his father"

Nikolas didn't say anything so Sofia continued. "I know your police brain can't let go of the evidence but...he was a hero."

"Sofia..."

"Please just let me have this. If getting to the truth is how you need to cope fine but I need to know my son didn't meet Grim in vain."

Nikolas pulled her back to him. "I love you Sofia. I need you to know that."

"I'm tired."

"Okay."

"I love you too. I'm...just trying to get through."

"Yeah...It does make things feel a little better even if...never mind. Good night My Dove."

Even if...it wasn't true...

1989 Pt2 - Mizrahi's Are Forever

[gnattyplayssims]

1988 Pt2 - The Cure

[Seventeen Years Earlier]

Stefan hummed as he pulled a leaf from a banana tree. If he could just figure out how to grow them at home he could make Esteban fresh banana bread and... "Esteban!"

"I am hungry!"

"How many times have I told you not to eat strange fruit!?"

"Nae Lee, this fruit will satisfy my hunger. I used to eat it often as a young boy."

"But that one...that's the one my brother-in-law used as a poison!"

"It has never hurt me. In fact this one...makes me want to do inappropriate things with you."

Stefan swallowed. "Oh..."

The trees in Wakaba were turning beautiful shades of red and yellow the day that Sofia visited her brother in his home for the first time. The clean design and well-manicured plants was not what Ava had expected of two bachelors...or...not bachelors?

It was all so confusing!

"Glad you could make it Kyle."

"Me too. I'm glad you were able to push the visit back a few weeks so I could finish my session."

"I hope everthing is going well for you. I have been quite worried for you since Stefan gave me the news."

"Oh um thanks."

Silence settled.

Frustration filled Stefan as he watched his family.

Esteban always tried to stay quiet at family gatherings but this was HIS home. He had a right to be part of the conversation and he had been more concerned for Kyle's health since he'd heard the news than his own.

"Stefan this...is really good. Maybe not as good as Ava's she's a Master at cooking but...I'm impressed."

"Next family get-together I'm kicking mom out and you're joining me."

"Thanks...I know it's not the most manly."

"I'll let you know how manly it is after Sofia goes."

"You have any Salvadoradan plants in this collection. I've taken a bit of an interest in plants and I'd love to see them."

Later Nikolas found Kyle outside. "I may be old but I haven't retired yet...why'd you take some of that plant."

"I wasn't trying to hide it."

"Well?"

"I've been trying to find something to distract me. My body aches for everything it can't have so...I've been pouring over that old study you gave me."

"Hence the plant." Nikolas leaned against the wall with a sigh. "What's on your mind, I could use a distraction too."

"Okay, hear me out. I know you gave me those old files cause I picked up some 'silly hobby' but...I have a theory."

"I'm listening."

"This plant. It's native to Salvadorada right? Well I needed to run some tests on our simternet prototype anyway so I sent out some emails..."

A couple weeks later Kyle was led into the lab at Copperdale Police Station. Kyle watched for a moment as the woman mixed the concoction.

"EUREKA!" Finally she turned to them.

"Kyle this is Katlin Gagnon. Her mother Ann is a good friend of Sofia's."

"We're practically family...distantly related in fact."

"And this must be the subjects doctor."

"He's not some test subject he's my patient and I only gave you a blood sample cause my brother begged. So why am I here?"

Kat turned on the screen and a diagram that didn't make sense to Kyle popped on the screen "Is that...?"

"Yep! This is Subject One's genetic imprint, AKA my own, THIS is Subject Two's imprint, AKA your patient's."

"But what's this?"

"This is where it gets interesting. Subject Three is Kyle, Subject Four is another Salvadoradan patient."

"Two and Four match."

"Exactly!"

"What does this mean?"

"I've tested hundreds of samples to be sure. This marker is only found in 5 of those samples. The only thing those samples have in common is being native to Salvadorada."

"So..."

"Watch what happens when I introduce the hormone you've been giving him..."

"So...that drug has been making it worse?"

"Unfortunately yes."

"I told you to get off it! I had such a bad feeling."

"So I'm not sick."

"You are but the approach we've been taking isn't going to fix it. What I saw in that lab...this could work Esteban. You could get better."

"But you're not sure. It's still experimental like the last one. It could make things worse. It could speed things up. I...don't know if I can take anymore."

"I understand. There's still a lot we don't understand. To be honest...I don't think this would work for anyone else."

"Do you want to try Nae Lee?"

"I...don't know. I was just told I was born with a weird genetic anomaly. This seems like the first step to being a test subject."

"Kat is of course intrigued by any info you give her but...this will stay in the family. I understand your concern."

"Explain the plant part again."

"We know from other research that most who eat it meet Grim. New research has shown that this plant reacts differently in Salvadoradan's."

"What would end Stefan, is a drug for me."

"Until hormones from Stefan triggered an HIV-type reaction."

"Your waters getting cold."

"Everyone was right Stefan."

"What?"

"Your family...the way they look at us like we're broken...like they always knew..."

"Stop that. It has nothing to do with us being gay"

"You'd be better off if you just left. I can let them run the tests and-"

"Hey..." Stefan dropped to his knees in front of his husband. "We pledged Utuknae remember. I'm not leaving you...I promise. What we learned today is progress we can figure out how to help you now."

"Your hormones are hurting me."

"Well stop sneaking berries off that damn tree"

"I can't believe you were right. If I'd listened to you..."

"You would have been in so much pain these last few years. But now we can get you healthy again and who knows maybe you'll even outlive me now."

"Absolutely not."

"Fight me on it after you get better okay."

"Yeah."

1989 Pt1 - Not in Vain

[gnattyplayssims]

1988 Pt1 - The Flame Goes Out

Marie's recovery was slow and frustrating especially with the added stress of being pregnant and the weight of loss hanging over them all. She felt like a stranger even while everything around her was familiar.

"Get comfy sweetie, I'll get dinner started."

Marie sighed as she set the crutches aside. Her mother still hadn't said anything about the baby as if she was pretending it didn't exist. Kyle sat and patted the couch next to him.

"We turned my office into a bedroom for you. I know it's upstairs but you'll have your own space."

Marie laid her head on her dad's shoulder "Mom's mad at me isn't she?"

"No sweetheart, she's just not very good at expressing her feelings. When she's high-strung she pours herself into making sure everyone's cared for. She put a lot of work into planning your favorite meal."

Just as Kyle said Ava had everything arranged so that Marie had an appointment with the local doctor the next morning.

"Looks like the funding's better. This place has really had a glowup."

"Mom I don't need you to hold my hand, I can handle a doctor's appointment by myself."

The doctor brushed in at that moment. "I beg to differ. Company policy says you have to be accompanied by a spouse or parent."

"What? That's a dumb rule."

The nurse shrugged "Just one of those archaic Gilbert Gilbert's rules we're waiting for Doctor Landgraab to overturn."

The nurse powered on the machine and soon a whooshing filled the room. "Is it twins?"

The nurse chuckled, "I've barely started but there's a head. Do you want to know what you're having?"

"You can do that?"

"We always could but policy changes allow it now."

"Yes, tell me."

"It's a girl...Are you okay Ms. Mizrahi."

"I keep expecting something to happen that will make this real but...it's just black and white lines and some whooshing noises."

"You're young, it's okay for this to feel surreal. I can recommend a counselor."

"That's okay."

After dinner that night the twins rushed off to do their homework so they could play outside before dark. "How was your appointment?"

"Fine. It's a girl." Her words fell flat as she hobbled to her feet.

"Your crutches."

"The bathroom is 10 hops away mom."

Kyle gasped suddenly.

"You're showing."

"Oh...um...yeah. I guess this top shows that off." Her stomach fluttered "Here."

She pressed his hand to the spot his granddaughter was moving. Kyle's eyes lit up. She wished she could feel that excited. That connected. She felt nothing.

"Now she needs a name"

But Kylan Marie couldn't name her. How could she name something she'd never seen? Something that was part of her but its own? Time passed and her body healed but her heart didn't. She placed her hands on that last place Toby had touched her before being flung from the car.

Like the remnants of a flame.

An ember

As Marie's time drew closer the pull of the bottle under Kyle's mattress became stronger.

"What's this?"

"The last of my stash. Ava...I messed up."

Two pills rattled in the bottle. "What happened?"

"I want to be strong enough. For you, for our growing family...but...I'm not."

"This is good though. Progress."

"You don't understand Ava. I...think about it all the time. I found a new supplier and...I don't think I can stop on my own."

"What are you saying?"

"I need help Ava. Before I end up..."

"Like my brother."

"Or in jail like mine."

"I can make some calls."

"I already found a place. It lasts a year. Three 3-month sessions with a month in between. I'd miss the birth...and most of her first year. But then I'll be free."

"We'll make it. We've done it before."

"I know. You're the strongest woman I know."

He pulled away suddenly "I have to get to work. We can discuss the details tonight."

She watched him go and when he cast a glance over his shoulder she thought he looked stronger than he ever had before. "Wait!" He paused at the door "I have something for you."

He looked down at the house key. "What is this?" "Bronze for Endurance." He sighed in frustration with himself,

"I missed our Bronze Anniversary."

"Marie needed us. Kyle...no matter what, this is your home. Make the call, go to rehab, get better, but come home."

Finally the day for baby girl's arrival came and finally Marie felt something...pain...excruciating pain. "It's not too late to get an epidural. It did wonders when your siblings were born."

"I'm not getting a plumbing epidural mom. Just shut up will you, I'm trying to breathe"

"Choosing the natural route I see. What a trouper."

"I don't need drugs to shut off my pain."

"Okay Super Woman, it's time to push."

And so she did...for hours. And every hour, every push felt like a penance, a cleansing, a stoking of the fire that was dying within her...

And then that fire went out and all that remained was a memory...an ember of a life that was no longer hers, a child she could no longer be. A voice of hope that she would never hear again. Her mother was crying but she didn't feel anything.

All she had left was Ember.

"She looks like a potato mom."

"So did you. Don't worry, in a couple months she'll start looking more like you...or her father."

"Yeah."

"Will you tell me about him?"

"Who?"

"The father?"

"Nothing to tell. Just a stupid high school boy who didn't know how to use a condom."

Kyle finished his first session shortly after Ember's birth. "There's my little granddaughter. Oh aren't you perfect. I hear mommy did a beautiful job."

"I'm gonna...get a snack...or something."

"Don't worry Em, mommy loves you, she's just struggling to show it right now."

1988 Pt2 - The Cure

[gnattyplayssims]

1987 Pt1 - A History Lesson

"Dad? Are you feeling alright?"

"Just tired dear. I...can feel Grim at the door Come here." Celeste knelt at her father's bedside. "There's something you need to know before I go."

"Don't talk like that."

"Celeste listen. The box on the mantel holds it all."

"A history lesson? What kind of history lesson?"

"I don't know. You and dad have basically been here since this Worlds founding. Maybe just hearing your story will help me figure out what Andrew wants."

"Andrew? Andrew Larimore? Is he here?"

"Mom? Who is he?"

Celeste took a deep breath as she neared the Keepsake box. The key felt like it was burning a hole in her hand. Her father's secrets all the things he'd always said she wasn't ready for.

"What do you think's in there?"

"I don't know. I'm a bit scared to find out."

"So Andrew is trying to buy your computer work?"

"Yeah. Dad thinks I should sell it."

"All the more reason not to! Your father has never been willing to fight for what's properly yours."

"I thought you and dad..."

"What? Loved each other? Don't be such a romantic, Kyle."

A single piece of paper was all the box held. "Well that's a little disappointing."

Celeste was scanning the letter. Her eyes widening as she processed it's contents. "It's a will...Gilbert Gilberts will."

"What does that have to do with you."

"Everything."

[1923 - Henford-on-Bagley]

Gilbert Gilberts blew into the Gnome's Arms Restaurant on a stiff breeze. The fire was roaring and he rubbed his hands together to get warm.

The man behind the counter looked up with a crooked smile and grabbed a towel to dry his hands.

"Can I get you something to drink Gil?"

"Not unless it's something stronger than Sasaparilla?"

David chuckled, "You know we're not that kind of establishment anymore."

"Yeah. Stupid laws. I just...It's too much sometimes you know."

David motioned toward a table.

"You and Mandy fighting again?"

"She attended one of those rallies and now she thinks we're equal she's always nagging me. Even Henford is adopting this modernized thinking."

"Times are changing, Gil. You'd have to find a whole new world if you want things to stay the same"

"Huh, that's an interesting thought...uh oh...here comes trouble."

David grinned, "She's trouble alright but worth every moment." He jumped to his feet and gave his wife a kiss.

"There you are. Hezekiah's throwing a fit can you give him one of your talks?"

"Of course dear."

"Kye your mother says you're being disagreeable."

"Go away! You're not my father."

"Young man, if you want to be treated like an adult you need to show more respect."

"Hey Mr. Mizrahi! Is it okay if Kye and I go up to the Bramblewood to go fishing?"

"Hmm that depends on Kye."

Hezekiah gave a dramatic sigh. "I'm sorry Uncle David...can I please go fishing with Gloria."

David nodded glad that the boy had a friend his age. "Of course but make sure you're back before dark."

"Okay." The two kids rushed off and David returned to find Gil already gone.

[1925 - San Sequoia]

"Dad when are we going back home?"

"This is our home now sweet pea. A blank world for us to shape however we want. We can make our own rules. And others who are like-minded will join us."

"Can I be queen?"

"Only if you marry the king."

[1942 - Brindleton Bay]

"Stop holding back! I told you I can handle it."

Leutenant Mizrahi swung his leg, narrowly missing Gilbert's head then swivelled and kicked him in the gut knocking the wind from him.

The Leutenant reached out his hand. "You sure about that old man?"

The two settled in on a bench to catch their breath and Hezekiah sighed, "Still no letter?"

"No...I told her I wanted to marry her and...nothing. It's been 3 months."

"Eh just forget her. Girl's like Anabelle don't want to wait for 'maybe' weddings"

"That's what I'm afraid of"

Kye drooped and Gil felt bad, "Ignore me man. You know I'm just bitter since I got my 'Dear John.' There are hundreds of girls up this coast that will take your mind off her."

"And end up with a surprise kid? No thank you. I'll take the no news is good news route."

[1945 - San Sequoia]

"Excuse me!? You're leaving everything to some Bay Bastard son. Am I nothing."

"You're an unmarried woman. Perhaps if you had sons of your own..."

"I will."

"Have 3 sons and I'll give THEM San Sequoia."

Fine and I'll do it all without a husband."

So she did.

When Gloria announced her pregnancy Gilbert Gilberts smirked. "It'll be a girl."

But Gloria smashed the ultrasound machine and ate her carrots and soon Geoffrey Geofferson was born...then Michael Michaelson...then, after a night with Evan Chandler a third son came.

"What's this?"

"Your son. This is Kyle Kyleson."

"That's a dumb name."

"Oh um Mrs Chandler...I didn't know you'd be here."

"I know your game Ms. Gilbert's and I want you off my porch."

"Mommy what's that?"

"The stork dropped off a baby brother for you, Jen."

[1965 - San Sequoia]

"So I don't get anything?"

"Calm down Andrew. The stipulations for the will were intense I didn't expect her to succeed but that doesn't mean it's hopeless. They won't inherit a thing till their 40th birthdays and they have to uphold my laws perfectly."

Andrew scoffed.

"30 more years? I might as dig my own grave."

"I've put myself in a bit of a legal bind but they're destroying themselves. Michael is dead...Geoffrey is a pariah in this town. Kyle just got shipped off to Copperdale. Just help the process along."’

"So...you're telling me...Andrew is after an inheritance I didn't even know I had? And...you've put all that pressure on me to make sure I earn it? And...you're not even my mom?"

"Yes."

"I don't even want my own world. That sounds stressful...but I can't just let Andrew have it"

1987 Pt2 - The Accident

[gnattyplayssims]

1986 Pt2 - Her True Knight

It was a foggy morning the day Kyle and Christopher headed to Gilbert Garden's for an important meeting.

"Kyle, I'm glad Chris was able to convince you. My business partner and I are excited to close this deal."

"I just can't believe someone really wants to buy it."

"Don't undersell yourself. You've been working on this product for over a decade. It was just a matter of the World being ready for it."

"And what makes you think it's ready now?"

"Honestly it would be better for my Partner to explain. He's far more charismatic."

"Ah here he is now."

"Hope I didn't miss anything important."

"Not at all. You're just in time."

Kyle's heart dropped as the man entered the room and took the seat at the other end of the table. Something had told him it was too good to be true and now he knew why.

Andrew smiled confidently as he settled in. Chris started asking questions and Andrew answered them but Kyle couldn't focus.

"Kyle perhaps you'd like to take a moment to get your thoughts sorted."

"No, I'm fine...Can we think over the offer?"

"You can have till weeks end."

"Alright Kyle what's on your mind. This is what you've been working toward for years."

"We'll find someone else."

"There is no one else, Kyle. I know it's scary to let go after all this time but this is it. We're not getting another chance."

"I'll take that risk."

"Seriously-"

"I'm not putting my hard work into that man's dirty hands."

"What's wrong with Ben?"

"That Andrew guy...he's the type who takes what isn't his and destroys it."

"Meanwhile our old company is going to cash in on all our hard work."

"Just...trust me on this."

"I thought you said he'd jump on this, Ben. We don't have until the end of the week."

"We've waited this long we can wait a little longer. Sit down will you."

Andrew sat in a huff. "You promised me Kyle Kyleson would be erased."

"He will. Believe me this deal is his dream."

Ben rubbed his temple, "Provided that woman didn't tell him who you are."

"No way. She's smarter than that. If they're still together it's only because he doesn't know. I...could use that."

"See her again you mean?"

"If you're okay with it."

"It's not the worst idea."

"You've taught me well. I control her in primal ways she barely understands."

"Primal huh. You sure this is just about Kyle."

"You know I wouldn't be with a woman for any other reason."

"Good boy...now get on your knees and show me what else that pretty mouth can do."

That night Kyle and Ava took the twins down to Anchorpoint to see a movie and do crafts at the library. Ava found Kyle in the Art Corner. "Everything okay, Ava? You look a bit pale."

"I think the movie just made me a bit sick. I'm gonna step out for some fresh air."

"Okay."

It was quiet outside and the soft summer breeze tickled Ava's skin adding to the eerie feeling that she was being watched. She'd noticed it first in the movie but she'd become certain when she'd seen the figure through the window.

"I thought I made it clear to stay away."

Andrew clamped a hand over her mouth and pulled her around a corner where she jerked away from him.

"How dare you."

"I don't recall there being so much complaining before."

"I made it clear that if you came near me again..."

"You'd get arrested...yeah I remember."

Andrew smirked as she wrapped her arms around herself.

"That's what I thought. You're a lot of talk Ava but you'll still shut up when I tell you to. Now listen, You're husband was offered a deal today and if he doesn't take it...well certain pictures may end up in his possession"

"You took pictures?!"

Andrew smirked "Good ones too. From that day you went to the wedding. You'd lost all that weight and wore those tight pants that showed everything. And I pinned you over the bar."

"Stop! Kyle already knows about us."

"What!? You told him!?"

Before Ava could respond a body stepped in front of her pushing her back. "Is there a problem here?"

"Oh your wife needs you to speak for her now?"

"I'm sure she doesn't, but you don't seem to be able to take her 'no' for an answer. See this ring it means you already lost."

"That ring is just metal. You can have your wife Kyle, hide behind her like you've hidden behind your brother and sister. But mark my words...I'll be the one who wins in the end."

"What does that mean?"

"Perhaps you should ask your precious mommy for a history lesson."

Kyle put the twins to bed and found Ava staring at her reflection. "You okay?"

"I'm a little shaken. It only took him two seconds to get back in my head."

Kyle kissed her forehead. "I'll kiss it better."

She pulled him down, "I'm glad you were there."

"You didn't need me."

He stood to his feet pulling her away from the mirror.

"You know I've gotten pretty good at reading you. I never wanted to say this before cause it always seemed so important to you but...I really like your...um...rolls? like um...when you're fluffy? Ah no that came out wrong."

"That's crazy, Kyle."

"It's not. I hurt someone before I know you're stronger than her but that fear is still there. But I want you to be happy and healthy so I never said...I just...hate to see you hating something I love. So be thin if you want...but love yourself...please."

"I'm gonna get small enough to fit in those pants again and I'll wear them for you then we'll see who breaks first."

Kyle growled and rolled her under him and she cried out with surprised laughter. "I already know you're gonna win this one."

"I always win Kyle Kyleson."

1987 Pt1 - A History Lesson