All that came after Norah... [Chapers 22 + Epilouge!]

[Tixi]

Hello all! Long time no see =) I bring a new story. A little swearing, a little sexual reference, but I'm hoping it's not too bad.

- Tixi

Prolouge - Norah

I met Norah at a party when she was fifteen. Her hair was more of treacle than straw, but her eyes were blue and her breasts firm below her t-shirt. Alluring, she fluttered her eyelids and my heart, barely nearing nineteen, jumped into my throat. The first kiss tasted of warm bourbon leeching from my own saliva, and her cool, flicking passion pop tounge.

As a pregnant sixteen year old, she yelled a 'fuck you' to her parents, and stormed out the door. Dumped books on my sofa and threw herself down after, stomach swelled, waistline stretched, she opened The Tempest and sat silent as I made her lunch, thinking through a cloud of tobacco, that i would very much like to marry this girl someday.

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Her anger grew as hormones filled her stomach, turning her sweet, plump lips into a scowl, freckles the color of chocolate on palid skin. I rotated my thumbs, faster and faster, the controller sweating in my hand, her voice reverberating in my ears.

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Ferocious, she gave birth to James Elliot White a month premature, and a month after she had stormed to her room, a cake decorated with seventeen candles untouched on the kitchen table.

James had charcoal hair and milk skin, set with eyes like a tropical ocean. I loved him more than I thought possible, and set down my Woodstock & Cola to heat up his bottle.

Norah lay on stinking sheets, packets of crisps open around her, crumbs in her socks.

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She had never been one to keep weight on, and when her skirts slid back into place with ease, she threw the door back on its hinges, peeling off down the street while i sat on the stained shagpile carpet, puppets on my hands, a chubby toddler asleep at my knees.

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I worked as a cleaner, mopping floors three nights a week. I shuffled in the door as dawn broke, James' cries greeting me, Norah and a bottle of vodka arm in arm on the sofa, TV buzzing softly.

Norah never worked, except on good days, when she attemped to write essays long overdue. I'll graduate one day she'd whine, brow furrowed, it's just so goddam hard with a kid!

At nineteen, she was pregnant again.

I don't want this, you know, she sighed angrily, dealing out the cards, James asleep in his crib, I never wanted any of this

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Yvette Jane White, perfect at full term, ten fingers, ten toes, a fine sprinkling of hair. I gave the crying bundle her first bath, changed her first nappy, warmed her first bottle. Norah binged, cursing when Size 10 gave her a muffin top.

Norah died when she was almost twenty-one. Heatstroke. She'd been at the beach. I made arrangements for her funeral with a weight off my shoulders, and two innocent-faced children staring up at me.

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[lethifold]

OT: Yay! First post!
On Topic: That was a really good beginning. This is sure to be an awesome story. I'm lurrrving it, Tixi. Can't wait for the update so we can see where the journey goes...shame about Norah though. But it seemed at the end she wasn't particularly sweet.

[sweetbabyhnd2007]

I just found this story and im already starting to like it

[oceanborn_SC]

This is so good!!!
I hope this man will be a good father and take care of the kids well.

[teardrops182]

This sounds really good! Ill be reading it as you update :)

[BabyGirl250185]

i love it hope you update soon

[xgrrlx]

Interesting, haven't seen something like this before.

[The Paper Lady]

This sounds fabulous so far, and your writing is very beautiful. I think it sounds very real.

[[[MILK]]_SC]

I like it very much. You've got a good writing style. Cant wait to read more :)

[eruwenfuin]

Even the title made me curious. It's a very promosing start :D, and it sounds like a real life situation!

[Tixi]

Yvette squirmed as I sloshed warm water over her back. Muted squeals from behind her pacifier, hands beating the surface, sending sprays of water over my shirt.

Hold still, for gods sake! i cursed her in my head, longing for the familiar sag of the couch cushions, the cold of a VB, the jeering of my 'mates'. Haven't heard that in a while.

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The dummy dropped from between her gums and piercing wails filled the dingy bathroom.

Nyyyyerrrrrr! Nyyyyerrrrr! Bsscchhhh! Pchhhhhhhh! James swooped and jumped his model fighter plane through the door Take cover dad! Nyyyyerrrrr! Pyow! Pyow!

James please, keep it down! I gritted my teeth, massaged my temples. Scooped Yvette up and she caught on the rusted tap. A gash on her arm, near her shoulders. The wails became frantic.

Fuck!

Crimson seeped from the fine line. Naked toddler on my hip, I fumbled for antiseptic.

Daddy swore! Nyyerrrrr! Dudududududududududu!! simulated machine gun fire charged bullet by bullet at my head

I'm so sorry, baby screams as I rubbed the stinging, clear liquid on her skin, I'm so sorry, that was an accident.

Nyyyyyerrrrr! Pyow! Bschhhhhhhh!

[LizaLizBethy]

This story is so well written, and so realistic. Keep it up!

[Tixi]

A ball of fur barely as big as my palm. White with grey flecks. Curious brown eyes.

Holy shoot! A dog! That's awsome! Greg Marten from school has a doberman. It's black and brown. What kind of dog is it dad? What's it called? Thank you soooo much!

James bounced, circling me as i held out the whimpering bundle.

It's a husky, not a doberman, but it'll be just as strong he took the dog eagerly, putting it up to his face, rubbing his nose in its fur, and we're going to let your sister name it

What! Why? She's too young to name a dog! James drooped, ideals of Goku the Husky, Vegeta the Husky, Ash Ketchum the Husky, melting from his mind

Yetty! Come in here, bubs

Yvette toddled in, eyes wide

Doggy!

That's right I smiled, taking the dog from James, now, you have a very important mission. What do you want the doggy's name to be?

She frowned, thinking, for several moments.

Dora the s'plorer! she gurgled happily

I laughed, But Yvette, this is a boy dog, wouldnt you rather call him something like...Rex? Rover? Spot?

Dora! her voice raised above mine angrily. How dare we not agree with her suggestion.

I sighed, scratched the back of my neck and looked at James, eyebrows raised.

Dora it is, I smiled again, passing Dora the Boy Husky to Yvette

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[Stormy_SC]

This is really good! Can't wait for more! :D

[annachibi]

Awesome! You have sort of a... I dunno... "minimalistic" writing style, which is very unique! I love it so far! ^_^
Poor kid, having a dog named Dora... :lol:

[FurryPanda]

Hmm, this is a really pecuilar style of writing. Very short and abrupt, but for some reason I luvs it. Update soon and happy simsing!

[teardrops182]

I love the style of writing :) It's really descriptive, and I havent seen that in sims stories lately. I feel sorry for the kids AND the dad :( This stuff is really awesome!

[lethifold]

I too love the style of writing. As people have said it's very minimalistic, but that's so unique. I love it. And the pictures are really well done.

[PennyTheCorgi]

As people have said, you have a very unusual writing style. I love it though, this story is really addictive. :)

[Tixi]

East of the mall, all the houses are made of fibro. Windows rotted wood. Doors bang all night, babies cry. Women scream, husbands drink.

The kids, now at East Jefferson Public School, years three and one respectively, knew more choice words than a lewd sixteen year old. James told dinner table stories of a girl in his class that lifted her skirt for a dollar a look. Yvette traded sandwiches for Mars Bars with a boy with a black eye.

Year six kids have cigarettes in their pockets! James laughed eagerly, racking his brain for more shock value

I shook my head and smacked Yvette's elbows off the table.

Tucked them into bed at seven-thirty and eight. Front door locked, deadlocked and bolted. Back door blocked with a chair. Windows latched. Front light on, a radio buzzing in the front room. A baseball bat in the umbrella bucket.

I lay on the quilted doona and flicked on the television. Fell asleep to Lateline, and dreamed of Norah. Hair more treacle than straw. In the dream she stood by my bed. Crying.

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Woke up shaking. Kids in the kitchen slopping milk on the countertop. Cocopops littered the floor.

Buckled the kids up at eight-twenty-three. Dropped them at school and did an illegal U-turn. Nobody looked up, but the man with the mullet, chain smoking, leaning on a telegraph pole. His daughter had unwashed hair and food on her trackpants.

Into town to collect my pension. Answer questions about my unemployment.

Wife died. Young kids. Cant afford daycare.

Sauntered out of the Centrelink office, past the bank. Stopped at the real estate. Jotted the number on the back of my hand.

Hello, Stephan White speaking. Um...yes. I was thinking of selling my house. East Jefferson. Yes, i know it isn't a high demand area, but i was hoping you could...oh, really? This weekend? Yes, we can be out of the house at that time. Thank you! Thank you so much!

On Saturday, I took the kids out for icecream. Double choc-fudge and Rainbow Ripple, and Baileys and Almond for me. Stood by the play equiptment in the park, two dripping cones in my left hand. Yvette whooped from down the slide and James hung one handed from the monkey bars, model plane swishing through the bars.

Monday, i sat them down on the lounge.

How would you kids feel about moving? Upstate, perhaps. Into the city.

Moving! James shrieked Why?!
Yeah, why! Yvette mimicked. drawing out her 'y'

Say you wanted to buy...some pot, for instance. Where in town would you go, James? I raised my eyebrows, as if to show my interest in his answer

James swelled, Out the back of Pete's Deli, and the loading dock of the IGA, and the kebab shop after midnite!, beamed with pride

And that, i grinned, clapped my hands together, is why we're moving

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The children shrugged at one another.

[jacquelyyn]

i LOVE this.

[FurryPanda]

Now theres a smart child, admitting to his father he knows where to get pot. Update soon!! Happy simsing.

[annachibi]

:rofl: This chapter is pretty funny! ^_^ I'm glad their situation is going to get a little better. I don't even know where to get drugs in my tiny little city, and I'm 19! :lol:

[Tixi]

All morning i lifted crudely sellotaped boxes into the boot of the car. Children whalloped each other with pillows on the lawn. Dora zigzagged underfoot.

Settle down guys, please, I sighed, a box of plates balancing perilously on top of a waffle maker

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Strapped in the car, Yvette and James hollared and argued down the Princes Highway and through the sidestreets. Brain pounding in my ears, I contemplated heading over the barricades and hurtling down the slope beside the road.

Entered the city, buildings towering above the car, silenced the children as they stared in awe. Never seen skyscrapers before.
Drove one handed, swerving slightly, consulting the map on the seat beside me. Polished glass windows and BMW's faded away as we turned into Redstone. Historical sandstone buildings. Run down factorys. Backwards cap boys on bikes leaning on the window of the 7/11 choking down blue slushies. Laundrette's. Inner city slums, but no fibro. No women strolling down the sidewalk in carpet slippers and hair curlers. No blood shot eyes slumped against the front fence of the Primary School. At least, not yet.

Almost missed Bellview Cl. Swerved left. Narrowly avoided a head on. James and Yvette, hysterical in the back seat.

Found number twenty-three and pulled up on the gutter. Rows of identicle terrace houses ran down both sides of the street. Kids got out.

This is it? James looked around
Yvette ran her eyes over the dirt stained bricks. Wanted a house with a yard and a swingset. Room for Dora to have a kennel.

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It'll be great inside, just wait and see! I beamed, hands on their backs, ushering them up to the door, you kids are gonna love it here

[Tixi]

A sharp knuckled bang on the door. Tumbled out of bed, wrestled with a pair of Levi's. Kids still asleep. Swung open the door, a woman standing on the porch.

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Hey, i'm Carla! she beamed, healthy white teeth, expensive clothes, enthusiastically shot out her hand

Stephan I mumbled, licking the gunk from the side of my lips away

I live next door, Carla explained with a short laugh. I snuck a glance at my watch. Nine-o-clock.

I raised my eyebrows and nodded, Ah, cool.

She looked around at the toys that had already managed to make their way onto the verandah.

You have kids? a weary smile, the kind you give a girl in a bar when her boyfriend approaches

Yeah, two. Girl and a boy. James and Yvette. I kicked Dora's bone a few feet to the left, wishing for more to say, or Carla to bounce off home.

I love kids! she grinned again, too optimistic for this time of day, So anyway, where abouts are you from?

And the routine started. Jefferson. Yeah, moved because of the area. No, just the kids. Yes. No. Yes. Yes. No.

Well anyway, Carla stretched, I have the day off today, so i better go get started cleaning the bathrooms

Yeah i'd better um...go grocery shopping, I scratched my neck, eyes apologetic. Didn't mean to suck at small talk.

Oh, no, hey! I'll save you the trouble! How about the three of you come round for dinner tonite? I'll cook my famous spag-bol!! she could have passed for a friendly southern chick in a romantic movie, except she wasnt southern

Uh, yeah, sure. That'd be great, I smiled weakly. The kids would love some proper food.

Great! Number twenty-one, obviously. Come 'round at about...six? Yeah, and she turned on her heel, clomping away in boots that i noticed probably cost more than my car

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I put one hand in my pocket and patted Dora absentmindedly on the head, watching after her.

[annachibi]

Huh. I'm surprised more people aren't commenting on this story.
Carla has a cute, unique face! ^_^ And the new house looks great! If she's so rich, though, what's she doing in this part of town? Interesting...

[starwyn]

Love it! At first i thought it said something about Noah and thought it must have been a religious story so i didn't bother looking, then i read it properly LOL
I love that it's about a male for a change...i don't think i could do that...that's pretty tough. Looking forward to the next updates as i'm really liking what i've read do far...especially the line about where to find pot...that's why we're moving lol

[lethifold]

Starwyn: When I first read the title I thought it was religious...oops. Must always double check these things.
Tixi: Great updates. I love the boy James knows where to get some pot from. Always handy to have some idea about these things.

[annachibi]

That's true, there aren't many male-based stories, are there? Hmm, maybe I should do something about that... I dunno what it would be about, though. I usually do challenges.

[Tixi]

Dinner was spaghetti with chunky sauce and soft noodles. Carla poured tall, frosted glasses of rose champagne. Sparkling cider for the kids. The overenthusiastic, albeit well-dressed brunet of that morning disappeared into smooth movements, witty conversation and the ability to hold her cutlery with class. She giggled, chewing daintily, drinking without slurping, dabbed her lips with a napkin. Spoke of her university course. Journalism, with a focus on fashion. Worked four nights a week at the Starbucks in the QVB. Liked designer labels, sushi, running and magazines.

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James told her about his new teacher and the boy in his class that traded him a piece of Big Red for three pieces of Extra.

What a rip off! James shouted eagerly, and showed Carla the cinnamon scented foil still in his pocket

I know a shop in North Sydney that sells Big Red, Carla told him; I could get you some for seventy cents

Wow, James grinned, wide-eyed, that would be awesome

Yvette told her about how Dora got his name, and about the new Barbie she wanted. Carla smiled, laughed, nodded. Captured my attention in a way that no woman but Norah ever had.

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It’s going to be nice being your neighbour, I smiled softly, raised my glass to her

A coy smirk in return, Likewise

[Tixi]

I saw Carla most days. In her shiny gold beetle, briefcase in hand, glamorous friends over for dinner.

I’m interning at Cosmopolitan, and next week, Madison, she smiled

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We had dinner together on nights that she was free. Sometimes lunch. The kids bored quickly. I gave them a handful of coins and told them to walk down to the corner store and buy ice cream, then play in the park next door. Carla assured me that kids were safe in this neighbourhood.

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We talked about all kinds of things. Politics, jewellery, clothing, magazines, newspapers, money, coffee, jobs, kids, dogs, toys, malls, food, foreign countries, hometowns and childhoods. Her words were animated, enthused, her eyes alive. Liked her immensely.

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I like Carla, Yvette yawned up at me as I tucked her into bed

I like Carla too, I smiled. Flicked off the light

[annachibi]

Something tells me things aren't quite as they seem... But I like the update. Keep going! ^_^

[jenny]

this is good, I just discovered it!
I like how gritty it is, good writing as well:D

[Stormy_SC]

I'm loving this story! I love the way you write. It's so entertaining. ;)

[FurryPanda]

Cool update. I like Carla, she seems nice... but something tells me that there is more to her... Is she a serial killer? (joking) Update soon and happy simsing!

[starwyn]

gotta love that fag hanging out of his mouth on occasion. Makes me wonder why such an upper class girl is so interested....? I don't mean that because of the cigarette lol

[teardrops182]

Well..Carla definetely seems better than Norah!
Patiently (okay, stuff that, not-so-patiently) waiting for an update :P

[Tixi]

Carla became part of our lives. Slowly. My shy, oh, i'll get your morning paper for you, I was just on my way to the Newsagents anyway, became her, I can help Yvette with her homework, I'll be over after work.

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Dinner together became a regular event. Saturday's were rarely just me and the kids. I got a job at the IGA, stocking shelves. Minimum wage, but it counted for something. Made me seem less like a no-hoper. We were soaring. The ghost of Norah and mouldy fibro walls of East Jefferson a million years behind us. James joined the chess club, olympiad math group, cricket team, and rank as 'Top of the class'. Yvette made 'best friends forever' with a red headed girl from her class, they made bead jewellery together, played Bratz and Barbie's, watched Disney movies, drew pictures.

I worked late, so Carla took the kids after school. They watched her widescreen TV, ate jam sponge rolls and did their homework. Yvette loved reading Harry Potter. James started sixth grade math. Smart kids.

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I spun my tyres in the driveway, always eager to get home. Yvette slumped, sleeping on the lounge. James, eyelids drooping, watching Neighbours. Carla in the kitchen, scent of food in the air, a plate of food waiting for me and her charming smile.

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Life was good.

[Tixi]

...and be polite to Emma's mummy, and say 'please' and 'thank you', and wash your hands after you go to the toilet, and...

Da-ad! Yvette jiggled impatiently, rolling her eyes at me

I stopped. Sighed. Kissed her forehead, Have a good day, baby.

I will!, she ran down the front steps. Hugged her little friend. Jumped in the back seat of the white Commodore. Emma's plump, smiling mother offered me a short wave before driving off.

I walked back inside, turned up the fan. A sweltering summer day. Walked over to the fridge, cracked open a can of Carlton. James came pelting out of his room, cordless phone in hand.

Dad! Dad! Ben just called, can i go play cricket in the park? Can i please? Please, please, please? he had his bat in hand, eyes wide

Be safe, i smiled, patted him on the head.

He almost burnt up the asphalt sprinting down the road.

I plopped down on the lounge. Drained the can. Looked around the room. The day was mine, I could watch sport, eat EasyMac, get moderately drunk.

Not so appealing.

Instead, pulled on jeans. Slipped on thongs. Walked over to Carla's. She answered the door in a bikini. Embarrassed.

Stephan! Oh, um, god, she looked away, blushed, I was just about to water my plants

Uhrm, i could help? i shrugged. She was beautiful

Sure, she laughed, come in!

Inside was air conditioned, but we walked through to the back garden. I took a watering can and started sprinkling the flowers. She turned on the hose and sprayed the outdoor furniture. Dried dirt flowed down the umbrella. Muddy lines. I admired Carla's flowers. Stood up, turned to tell her how lovely they were. Was sprayed in the face.

I stood gasping, water dripping from my face. Carla laughing hysterically. I lunged forward, wrestled the hose from her, sprayed her back. We lept, hooted, screamed, tripped and eventually found ourselves staring at the clouds, heads touching.

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I love summer, she sighed

There was a pause.

I love you, I turned my head and looked at her

She looked back. Grinned. Moved closer, kissed me hard on the mouth. Her lips were so soft, body warm in my arms. We rolled around on the grass, the heat, our wet skin, neighbours shouting over the TV, all melted away. Bindi thorns pinched our backs, our arms, the grass was crunchy and dry. Couldnt let go of her.

When my back started to crisp, i scooped her up, carried her inside, into her room, lay her gently on her bed and climbed on after her. The kisses continued, rough and fierce, passionate. Slowly i reached behind her back, pulled the strings on her bikini top, threw it to the floor. Her lean fingers caressed my stomach, fumbled for my jeans, rasping for breath.

I love you too

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[lethifold]

Aww. Such a sweet (and heated) update. I love the pool picture of Yvette and Carla. Keep up the great work Tixi!

[jenny]

great update!.....

[annachibi]

W00t! Remember, boys and girls, always use protection! :rofl: Awesome update, I can't wait to see how this affects their relationship! (It always does, good or bad.)

[starwyn]

woohoo good things happening (hopefully) for the chain smoking, well meaning Dad!

[Tixi]

If i were religious, or prudish, I would have regretted that steamy afternoon with Carla, but as it stood, i spent my nights dreaming of Carla, my mornings longing to see her, and my evenings engrossed in her fascinating conversation, her inspiring ideas. The L-word hadn't been said again, there were no rings, no 'dates' as such, but i could feel my future being set in stone.

Sunday morning, Yvette bounded off to Sunday School with Emma and James slept in, but planned to watch the cricket in the afternoon. I left a note on the bench and wandered next door. Through the front window I could see Carla sitting at the kitchen table, a newspaper open in front of her, but her face tilted up, eyes blank, staring into space.

I let myself in, something we had both taken to doing. She lept up.

Oh, Stephan! a weak smile. Something bothering her

What's up i pecked her cheek

Nothing! Nothing! voice high pitched, darted hurridly over to the kettle, I'll just make some coffee

I sat at the table, chair creaked under me. Looked around as she spoke about that morning, sentences darting all over. Caught sight of the paper, bold letters at the top of the page. DOMAIN - HOUSING.
I smiled, imagining Carla taking my hand over coffee, mouth soft.

I want us to live together, Steve, you, me and the kids. Look, i found this nice place...

She sat down in front of me. Two mugs banged.

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I need to talk to you, she looked concerned, I've been offered a job at Harper's Bazaar. It's a good position, and it pays well. Really well.

I grinned, That's great!

Not...really, she looked down, I have to move interstate, to the main office. I'm going next...next week

Eyes filled with tears, apologetic.

Didnt know what to say, so i didnt say anything. Took her hand and sat while she cried. Shoulders shaking. My nose tingled with unshed tears.

[annachibi]

Ohhh, how sad! But... they can go with her, right? Right?! Thanks for the cliff-hanger, now I won't be able to sleep tonight. :lol: Just kidding!

[Tixi]

I felt like i was watching my life through a frosted window. A realtor came by and put up a FOR LEASE sign. I helped Carla assemble boxes and pack her things. Every hug just felt too short, and every day together just wasn't enough.

On Thursday, i zipped up my hoodie. It was getting chill. Carla strode out to get the mail.

Carla! i called, she looked up, grinned

And to what do i owe this honor! giggled, kissed me lightly

I was wondering, if you'd like to come over for dinner tonight. Just me and you

Did you kill the kids? she smirked

They're at rehersal for the School Production 'til late, so it'll have to be an early dinner. I thought...six?

I'll bring wine turned, walked back into the house

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With a similar strut, she climbed my porch steps and rang the doorbell, in the name of formality. I opened the door and pulled her close, gorgeous curves in a vintage red dress. Took her coat and ushered her into the dining room. Lit candles and dished up plates of Caeser Salad.

So, a play at the school, is it? she asked between mouthfuls

Ah, yes i grin, Yvette's a sunflower and James is a soldier. Very high-profile stuff.

We laugh, chink glasses together, dance to soft jazz, smile bittersweet with the knowledge we won't have another night together for a long time. So many things i want to say are lost in comfortable silence.

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[annachibi]

Oh man, now what? Oh man oh man, you're an ebil writer, you know that? :rofl: *hands Tixi cookies*

[Tixi]

Yvette threw Dora's stick against the fence. An echoing bang. I cringed from inside. Carla smiled.

So um, my friend Adrianna is going to move in here. She'd been looking for a place for a while, she explained, You'll like her

I nod, look out the window at the nearly-full removalist truck. Carla followd my gaze. Shrugged. Sighed. Sniffed.

I'll write you an email every day. Every single day. And we'll call. I'll move back, and you can come and visit me, she snuffled, teary

Of course, i took her hands

Oi, miss!, an overall-clad van driver poked his head in the door, we're ready to go

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Carla nodded. Tears dribbled down her face. Arms shook as she hugged me. We walked to the truck. Yvette and James rushed over from the yard, clung to Carla, stiffled sobs. Her shiny gold beetle revved into life, puttered off down the road. Never good at goodbyes. Yvette burried her head in my jumper, James looked at his shoes. My phone beeped three times with a message. Flipped it open.

I love you
C. xx

Voice an octave higher than usual, i put my arms around the kids, What about fish and chips, guys? We'll go down to the point and have a picnic

Can we take Dora? Yvette muttered, speaking into my hip

Of course, go grab her lead and some shoes, i'll start the car

The fish was greasy, chips soggy, served up on newspaper. James threw a frisbee for Dora, Yvette made a daisy chain. We sat on the sand and watched the sunset until the sky was only shades away from black.

What would you kids feel if we moved? Not away from this area, but a different house, i suggested. The thought of pulling into the driveway, seeing Carla's house locked up, silent. Shuddered.

So long as i can still see Emma, Yvette nodded

And play cricket with Ben! James put in

And be in the school play! Want to hear my lines, dad? It goes like...

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y117/Tixi/Piczo/snapshot_141a63e7_d42779d1.jpg

[Tixi]

hahaha annachibi! cliffhanger! evil! bwaha!
lol thankyou for the feedback
and thankyou everybody else as well
it means alot! ALOT! =D

[annachibi]

:rofl: You're a goofball, too, huh? ^_^
Man, that kinda sucks. Poor guy and his kids. If he were real, I'd run up to him and be like, "Hey, I'm single!" :lol:

[starwyn]

Isn't he a sweetie. I love that last shot of them sitting on the beach.

[Tixi]

A sense of Dejavu hit me as Adrianna Summers' heels came clomping up to my front door. She was all lips and hips and designer labels, with expert makeup and smoothe, soft hair.

Hey there! she exclaimed, I'm Adrianna, Carla's friend?

I nodded, Yeah, she told me about you.

Well, I just moved in next door, and since I heard all about the famous Stephan, I figured I'd pop by, her voice was thick, confident

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y117/Tixi/Piczo/snapshot_141a63e7_b4277552-1.jpg

Welcome to the neighbourhood, i offered lamely

It's a little...rundown, but I'm sure I'm gonna love it here, clasped her hands, grinned, And I thought I'd invite my new neighbour and his kids over for dinner! How about it?

I could have laughed. Imagined going to dinner, falling in love with Adrianna. Couldnt get past the obvious lust for attention, the loud, overconfident voice.

Sure, I smiled, I'll bring the kids over at seven

Great! Adrianna gave me a short hug. Smelt of Armani. Turned and sashayed down the stairs.

[Tixi]

Adrianna cooked mac&cheese. Served it up in chipped bowls. Spoke vociferously about her ex, her car, her work, her money. Corrected Yvette's way of holding cutlery. I began to think that James, held back at After School Computer Club, had dodged a bullet,

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y117/Tixi/Piczo/snapshot_141a63e7_b427775c.jpg

Noticed only Adrianna's breasts. Her bum. Her legs in heels. The miniskirt that commanded the mind to conjure images. I looked away, but couldn't help the animal urges stirring in my gut.

Left at eight. Adrianna kissed us both on the cheek, lingering on my stuble a little longer than needed. Drove my roaring old Pulsar to the school, picked up James. On the drive home Yvette francically told me to pull over. Beside the car was a small, brick house and garage, an AUCTION sign bent over in the yard.

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y117/Tixi/Piczo/snapshot_141a63e7_743492bd.jpg

Why don't we move there, daddy? she asked

Yeah, James chimed in, we could walk to school from here!

I took down the address, said 'maybe' and drove home.

Ran a warm shower while the kids watched Angry Beavers. Came out to two heads bent together, muttering on the couch.

You! James whispered

No you! Yvette hissed back

What's going on, guys? i smiled, waiting

James pushed Yvette forward.

Um... she looked down, Please don't love Adrianna more than Carla

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y117/Tixi/Piczo/snapshot_141a63e7_14277848.jpg

I lifted Yvette up, Don't be silly, I love Carla more than i'll ever even like Adrianna

Yvette giggled, Good!

Smiled, And that reminds me, we should call Carla, shouldn't we? Who wants to talk first?

James bounded off the lounge, ran up to me, Yvette clung to my leg as i dialed the number pinned to the fridge. Grinned ear to ear when i heard her soft voice.

[Stormy_SC]

Aww I'm glad the kids love Carla! :D I'm glad he loves her too. Awesome update!

[FurryPanda]

I jsut read the past couple of updates,a nd wowz are theya mazing. Though I'm kinda glad I missed all the ebil cliff hangers. This is so interesting I hope he and Carla get together permanently. Update soon and happy simsing!

[Tixi]

...yepp, i'm going over at about nine. No, i have no idea, i've never been to an auction before. Of course! I'll call you when i get home. Love you too, bye, i hung up the phone, looked at the clock.

Eight-thirty.

Took my wallet, my keys, straightened my jacket. Puttered down the road to the auction site. Won the house at $450,000. Drove home over the moon. Left Carla a voice message. Skipped next door to the Adiranna i'd soon be leaving.

Stephan! she beamed, a bit too pleased, What are you doing here?

I got a house! i yelled, punched the air, Across town, near the school! I won it today, in an auction!

That's great! Adrianna sounded anything but pleased, I'll sure miss you though

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I'll miss you too, i smiled softly, You've been a good friend over these past few weeks

She took my hands. I jumped back in shock but she kept a firm hold.

I feel we've become close too, she bought her face close to mine.

Before i realised it, her tounge was in my mouth. Hot little hands all over me. Running up and down my arms, my back, my chest, my...

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y117/Tixi/Piczo/snapshot_141a63e7_74278b2d.jpg

The feel of her against me was enough for me to forget her in every way but one. I took charge, pushed her back onto the couch, pulled off her belt, her shirt. Shook off my own suit jacket, ripped off my tie. Let her wrestle with the tiny white buttons. She stood up, backed me into a wall, metal chinked as she undid my belt, tailored pants dropped to my ankles. Pulled the stubborn zipper on her skirt. Removed undergarments. Fell, laughing, panting, into the shower. Took her every way possible.

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y117/Tixi/Piczo/snapshot_141a63e7_d421112a.jpg

Kissed her on the forehead as i left, out of courtesy. Never want to see her again. Dragged my feet home, called Carla with shaking hands.

Hey babe. Yeah, yeah i got the house...

[Jasmin_SC]

no man can resist the power of women ;)
awsome story tixi, :) I love the perspective and how hes a loving daddy

[PennyTheCorgi]

:blink: *cough* Methinks I see trouble in the future, Perhaps an unplanned pregnancy......

[beeps]

Guys, enough with the chatter. Please only post useful comments and compliments for the author (and other readers/lurkers). You can all feel free to use the PM system for chatting about stories, just keep it out of the thread.

Thanks.

[Tixi]

Life continued at a steady pace at 17 Tillper St. James started Year Seven, Yvette entered the world of mini skirts and 'you're ruining my life!', and I missed Carla.

Daily calls dwindled to every second day. Once a week. Whenever we got time. Sometimes.

It's human nature to deny what you'd rather overlook, and so, to everyone that asked, I talked to Carla more than enough. We both had work, after all, and we planned to be together soon. HoweverE, enthusiasic 'oh that's great' didn't match the sympathetic eyes of the friends that asked.

After a particularly savage encounter with a Miss. Adriana Summers in the frozen food section of IGA, I drove home close to tears. Adrianna's spiteful glare burned into me, her casual questions laced with the malice of one who is used to getting what they want, but have been turned down.

In the car, i dialed the number of Rebecca Sitch, a local youth praised for her low prices and excellent child minding skills.

Sat the kids down after dinner and told them to be good for the babysitter. They grinned at one another, excited by the prospect of staying up late.

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I shook Rebecca's hand, left the house, and strolled up the street to Postman's Tavern, the local pub.

Inside was dark, dingy, and smokey. I'd worn my faded jeans and a Ford t-shirt, a bit too tight. Still felt out of place. Sat down next to a rotund woman in a flannalette shirt.

Hi, I grimaced awkwardly, but she seemed to be a local, and clapped me on the back

Evening mate, she boomed, breath smelt sourly of beer and crisps, have a drink

I gulped down some Carlton, held out my hand, I'm Stephan, I live round the corner.

George, she had an iron grip, a wethered face, nice to meet ya

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We sat, drank, watched the sports on TV. Told her about my kids, my job, my car. She enlightened me of her unemployment, her days drinking beer and attending Centrelink appointments. Her girlfriend Laura.

You should hope that daughter of yours bats for the other side, she leaned over and confided in me during a break, swaying slightly, sure saved my pop a helluva lotta worrying.

I gave her a sideways look, turned back to the TV, I'll keep that in mind.

[Tixi]

I expected Laura to be a clone of George. Spikey hair, broad shoulders, slight BO smell. Instead, she stepped lightly in the door, flowing blonde waves, neat vintage skirt and shirt with heels. Her face was pale, deep rings around her eyes, but more like a worn out mother than a sleep deprived prostitute.

It turned out she was neither, just an anaemic salesgirl at K-Mart. She kissed George passionately, and the three of us found a table.

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Laura skulled straight scotch, trying to make up for lost time. George and I kept up the steady flow of beer. I talked loudly about Norah and Carla. Laura tutted, George snorted.

You need a propper lass, George slammed her hefty fist on the table

I've got just the babe in mind! Laura giggled, putting down another shot glass

George gave her a quizzical look and she shouted, Jess!

No, no, don't be silly, I'm not on the look out! I tried to explain, but Laura was waving in the direction of the entrance and George was muttering something about 'speak of the devil'.

I stopped mid-sentance as a tall, ash blonde woman walked over to the table, shrugging, asking what all the fuss was about.

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y117/Tixi/Piczo/snapshot_141a63e7_342903e7.jpg

Jessica Mathews was stunning, smiled as she caught my eye. I grinned back.

You must be new, she beamed, come dance!

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y117/Tixi/Piczo/snapshot_141a63e7_54290432.jpg

I stumbled up, nearly knocked over my chair. Laura and George exchanged smirks. Jessica danced like a star, brushed my hands gently. I was giddy with alcohol and her perfume. Over the music she shouted that she worked for a small branch of a fashion magazine. I laughed at the chances of another woman of the industry finding me.

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y117/Tixi/Piczo/snapshot_141a63e7_9429045b.jpg

We kept turning until my stomach began to rise up my throat and the barman told us to leave. A sloppy kiss goodbye and a zig-zagged walk home and i fell asleep full of hope again, Dora curled up at my feet.

[annachibi]

Sorry about that, bp! We lose track of the topic, you know how it is. ^^;

Well, Jess certainly looks interesting! Her outfit strikes me as a little kiddish and wild. :) I must say, I can't tell where this is going exactly.

[jenny]

great updates!
love this story:)

[Stormy_SC]

I see he's giving up on Carla. :( I hope not. She was very nice.
Great update!! :D

[lethifold]

Once again I love this story. I'm sad that he's giving up on Carla though. She was nice.
Great update! Keep up the good work, Tixi!

[FurryPanda]

I liekd Carla better, but Jess seems like an interesting person. I'm not sure wherefore you might be taking this or if Carla will show up again or what, but I hope she does, she was such a nice person. Update soon and happy simsing!

[Tixi]

'Confused' would understate how I felt in the days following meeting Jessica at Postie's. As i packed the kids lunches, drove to work, stocked shelves, i thought about her. About dancing, about talking, about the thrill of getting to know her. She was smart, i knew that. Pretty, clearly. Funny, charming, stylish.
But at the same time, she wasn't Carla. I still called as often as I could, but the conversation was lacking, the space between us obvious. There was no teasing "so, hanging out with all the girls tonight?" when she rang, and i could only assume she too was interested in someone else.

And so I went out with Jess. Took her too the movies, to the park, to a cafe. Kissed her in the car, in the street, and let myself fall in love.

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No rushing, it was months before i asked her to be my girlfriend. No more pissing around, this was serious. Yvette and James liked her, with the slight disapointment of a child fixated on one and only one person - specifically Carla.

She's ok, Yvette smiled softly, turned back to her book, took a mouthful of lasagne

I shut the fridge, took the plate of chocolate covered strawberrys back to the lounge room. Cuddled up beside Jess. Had spent all day together, planting a vegetable garden.

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What are you doing next Friday, Jess asked slowly, turning to face me

I screwed my face up, thinking, nothing, why?

Well, she pulled herself up on the arm rest, the CEO's of my magazine are holding a dinner at the Hilton in the city, and I wondered if you'd come as my guest?

Sounds....fancy, i grinned, i'd be honored, your magesty

Shut up! she giggled, slapped me gently

Pulled her in. Kissed her. Interrupted by the front door slamming.

Crap! Sorry, dad! James shouted, laughed, picked up the hat rack he knocked over

Where were you, hm? I called out

Out with Ben, at the movies, he said quickly, walked into the kitchen, asked Yvette if there was anything to eat

I looked after him curiously. Sighed. Wrapped my arm around Jess. The days of innocence, me and my children, were over.

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[Tixi]

(Yvette's POV)

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James beckoned me over, hissed, Kelsy's coming over tonight, and she's bringing her brother Harry and some grog. You in?

I grinned. I loved being invited to join in with James and his friends. Nodded, sure.

Dad and Jess hugged us goodbye, eveningwear rubbing, perfume clouding my nose. We waved from the porch. James went out to the garage to set up the polka table, the TV, the food. I pulled out some decent clothes, curled, teased, styled my hair.

Harry and Kelsy pulled up on the neighbours lawn at seven. She was small, petite, dressed in tight jeans, designer shirt, high heels. Looked bitchy, but smiled at me, hugged my lightly. Harry had a head of dreadlocks, cigarette breath, tight jeans and a kind face.

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James went through the rules of Strip Polka. I cursed not having better underwear. Harry delt out chips, James, cards, Kelsy, drinks.

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I had never had alcohol before. By James' tolerance i assumed he had. Kelsy swigged as though dehydreated. Harry sipped slowly, straight spirits. We giggled, peeled off jackets, shirts, singlets, socks, pants. Swayed.

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James scooped Kelsy up, carried her over to the couch. Harry and I sat at the table, facing one another. He made a few jokes, i took another drink. Sidled over to me, he kissed me hard, deep. My first real kiss. It was alcoholic, smokey, warm. James announced two tents set up in the backyard, and led Kelsy by the hand.

Harry's face close to mine, muttered, you wanna?

I followed him, knelt on the damp grass, crawled through the tent flap, stomach flipping upside down.

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[foolinthemoon]

EEEK! Tixi, i'm loving this, but you know i think your a great writer anyway, i love the mood and feel of this story, and i hate that Carla left out the picture so fast, maybe we'll see her again? maybe not? :) Awesome job, can't wait to see your next update :D

[Stormy_SC]

Oh they're grown! :anime: Where's Carla? :(

Great update!! :D

[Tixi]

The room at the Hilton was artfully decorated. Rosebud walls. White marble. Lights, expensive alcohol. Statues.

Jess and I sat at a table with her designer friends Ralph and Ula. The CEO, a sleek, grey haired woman, sat at the other. A small gathering, clearly.

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So, you two love birds, Ralph grinned, swished his martini around, planning on tying the knot anytime soon?

I blushed. Jess took my hand, quick reply, we really haven't thought about it, Ralph.

A shout from the other table.

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Four thousand dollars, on an imitation! the woman shrieked, raucous laughter ensued.

Ula turned the conversation to handbags and shoes. More what I expected.

The dancing began after a three course dinner. Ula and Ralph broke into an insane routine. The CEO and another woman stayed seated. I danced with Jess for three songs before walking back to the table for a break. Not used to dancing. Stepped behind the statue. Face to face with...

Carla! i shouted, she gasped.

Her initial shock turned into a smile, What on earth are you doing here! How are you?!

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Fine, fine. I'm here with...a friend, i stuttered, what are you doing here?

This is the magazine i work for, she laughed, nervous eyes

You look amazing, i grinned, she did, care to dance?

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It was like...tasting wine for the first time in years, after drinking only beer. Fizzy in a different way. For a moment, the void where Carla once was seemed gaping.

Shit! she yelped, jumped back, holding her foot

Oh god, i cried, i'm so sorry!

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A tanned man, Gucci glasses, strolled over.

Who is this? he asked Carla, his accent heavily Italian

Frowned, sighed, Carla gestured to me, This is Stephan.

Ah, he nodded, took her hand, Come, Carla, I have ordered you a drink from the bar

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A sympathetic look over her shoulder and Carla left. I stepped over to Ula, Who's he?

Sergio DeLorenzo, she purred, rumor has it, he's going to take over the magazine when Trisha Gomez retires

Trisha, the elegant snow haired woman, laughed, sipped a cocktail.

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y117/Tixi/Piczo/snapshot_141a63e7_5430daa7.jpg

Carla and Sergio laughed flirtatiously. I winced. This wasn't one of those times when I could be glad she was happy, no matter who with. I hated Sergio. Jelousy. Stormed into the Mens room.

[lethifold]

As usual, great updates, Tixi. Carla's dress is a tiny bit revealing. Showing the boys a peek of your knickers are we?
Poor Stephan though...seeing Carla with Sergio...

On the other hand, the kids look good as teens, and Stephan seems reasonably happy with Jess.

[FurryPanda]

Wow. Norah shows up and his kids are playing strip poker. Can't wait to see what happens with that! Update soon and happy simsing!

[annachibi]

Wow, Jess does gardening in high heels? :lol: Great updates! I want more, as always! ^_^

[LongTallSally]

Eep! There's a bit of a typo in this chapter. When Stephan meets Carla, he calls her "Norah"! You might want to change that, as I was EXTREMELY confused when I first read it. XD

Anyway, I read most of this story last night and finished it up to the most recent chapter this morning, and am enjoying it! You have an interesting writing style and I like the characters. I hope Carla stays in the picture this time!

[starwyn]

Yep. I was confused with the Norah/Carla bit too. Especially when he says she filled the gap where Carla once was...had to read it over a few times....and where is Jess in this picture?

[Tixi]

aha oh no!! that was a typo, he meets Carla, not Norah. Norah died >_<
thank you all for the positive comments =)

[Tixi]

It was tense, lonely, awkward private jet flight and a time difference that found Carla McGraw and Sergio DeLorenzo standing in their beach front mansion.

I'm sorry, Carla sighed, I didn't expect Stephan to be there.

Si, I know, I do not mind, Sergio took her hands, a pause, do you love that man?

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y117/Tixi/Piczo/snapshot_1430e48c_3430e48d.jpg

No! she exclaimed, of course not! I was just...surprised to see him, thats all

Sergio nodded, I love you, Carla, you know that?

Carla laughed, of course! I love you too, you're wonderful.

Sergio's face became serious. Knelt down.

I have had a question on my mind for some time...Carla McGraw...would you...do me the honor of becoming my wife?

Carla gasped. Shocked. Scared. Didn't expect that. Smiled. Jumped into his open arms.

Yes! Yesyesyes!

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[Tixi]

It was three in the morning when Jess and I rolled home in a taxi. Alcohol had slurred my voice, my reflexes, so when I saw the red and blue lights, it took me a moment to comprehend. An ambulance was parked, doors open, on the lawn. Yvette, a dressing gown wrapped around her, was shaking, head in her hands. A man stood beside her, smoking, rubbing her back. Four men. Two stretchers that held body bags. Policemen writing in notebooks. I stumbled over.

What's going on, officer? I asked, dizzy

This your residence, sir? I looked at the constable quizzically, he scoffed, Course it is, could tell by the whisky on your breath. Seems your son and his girlfriend wanted to experiment with heroin, sir.

The world was doing somersaults, Heroin??

'Fraid so, sounded anything but sympathetic, died of overdose approximately half an hour ago. Your daughter and her boyfriend over there found them in a tent up the back of this property...

Yvette? Boyfriend? Heroin? I steadied myself on the wall.

If you don't mind sir, i'm going to have to ask you some questions? Constable looked at me, I nodded

All the questions had the same answer. James was dead. I couldn't get my head around it.

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[Evangeline]

Awwwww....how sad. :(

[Stormy_SC]

What?! :blink: James dead?? :( That wasn't suppose to happen.
I hope he and Yvette will be ok. :hmm:
Great update!! :)

[lethifold]

Noo! James! That's so sad. I hope Stephan will be okay...-sniff-
Apart from, you know, the depressing-ness of James dying, great update!

[annachibi]

Noooo, you ebil writer, attacking the kids! :lol: Just kidding! Really though, that's terrible... but it kind of was his own fault. I don't know what possesses some people to experiment with drugs.

[Tixi]

News of Carla and Sergio DeLorenzo's pregnancy splashed over fashion and gossip magazines around the country. It startled me to see Carla in the news stands, on the glossy pages. To know I had held her. It was somewhat unnerving. Found myself avoiding the television, the newsagents.

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y117/Tixi/Piczo/snapshot_1430e48c_f430e869.jpg

Yvette stared at the walls, the floor, her hands, her untouched dinner. Eyes sad, face lifeless. Cut off all her hair, started wearing black. Harry stopped calling for weeks. I wanted to help her, but what can a father do? I told her not to go to school, but she wanted to. I told her to grieve any way she wanted. I'm sure she did, but it was like having a ghoul in the house, floating from room to room. Silent.

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y117/Tixi/Piczo/snapshot_141a63e7_1430ee39.jpg

Harry turned up at the door at nine one Friday. Yvette, not showered in days, didn't seem startled. Followed him out onto the porch.

You can't just sit here and die, Yetty, he snapped, just because James isn't here doesn't mean your life's over. I lost my sister too, in case you forgot. I understand! I really do! Please talk to me.

He pleaded, took her hands.

A moment later, Dad! I'll be back later, ok?

I smiled. Relief.

Harry turned out to be just what she needed, and not half the bad influence i suspected him to be.

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y117/Tixi/Piczo/snapshot_141a63e7_9430ef36.jpg
http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y117/Tixi/Piczo/snapshot_141a63e7_f43c68d9.jpg

Life began to swing upwards, and I married Jess in spring. She was promoted to editor and I became the manager of the IGA. Yvette applied for college. We planted flowers on James' grave every day.

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y117/Tixi/Piczo/snapshot_141a63e7_743c67da.jpg
http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y117/Tixi/Piczo/snapshot_141a63e7_543c67f3.jpg

[Tixi]

I was awarded a scholarship to Academe Le Tour. I'm thinking of doing Fashion Journalism when i finish. Apparently it runs in the family (mostly by marriage, but still).

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y117/Tixi/Piczo/snapshot_143c6cf5_d43c6cf6.jpg

I work hard, send samples to magazines, and work to fund my shopping addiction. Harry bought a place of his own, and I stay with him on weekends. We're hoping to get married when i finish college, but who knows!

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y117/Tixi/Piczo/snapshot_743c70dc_743c70dd.jpg

Dad and Jess are discussing having kids, even though dad doesn't want any. He'd hate to make Jess miss out. They're still living in Tillper St, tending to the ever expanding garden. Jess says it's a good hobby. Dad still prefers cricket.

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y117/Tixi/Piczo/snapshot_141a63e7_d43c6955.jpg

I miss James every day, but I try and do my best for him. I want him to be proud of me.

I tried to write to Carla once, but she never replied. I guess I expected that.

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y117/Tixi/Piczo/snapshot_1430e48c_943c733a.jpg

But all in all, i'd have to say life's pretty good.

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y117/Tixi/Piczo/snapshot_743c70dc_d43c7113.jpg

[Tixi]

So...yes! That is the end. It was only ment to be a short story. Hope you all liked it, and thank you SO much to everyone who commented every time =)

[Stormy_SC]

Aww it's over?! :jaw: NOOOOO! :( *Sigh* Oh well. It was a really great short story!! I enjoyed it a lot! I hope you write more in the future! :D

[foolinthemoon]

Aww! It was such a very nice story <3 I wish it had lasted longer, but maybe it lasted just long enough, ;) I hope to see you do more :D

[annachibi]

Wait, wha--that's the end?! Gosh darn it! I want to see all the little babies he and Jess have! :lol: But it was great while it lasted! I can't wait to see what other stories you might do! ^_^
By the way, if you need any ideas, I bet you'd get a kick out of the poverty challenge. It's here on S2C. You don't have to actually do the challenge, but I think it would be good inspiration. I think it kinda fits your style. But I could be wrong. ^_~

[starwyn]

That was unexpected! I was enjoying this story. But hey, at least it had an ending unlike so many other stories out there. And it's always the stories i like that get left so congratulations. It may have ended sooner than i had hoped but all in all i loved reading it . Hope to see another story from you soon :)

[FashionFrenzy]

I just started reading today and i myself enjoyed the story. Great job tixi!!

[The Paper Lady]

I can't believe it's over already! =( I was so sad about what happened to James but I'm glad that it was an overall happy ending. I'll be waiting patiently for any future stories! Great job! =)

[inkbottleblue]

Excellent job with this story! Your writing style is great and you're never predictable, which keeps your stories interesting. I followed your Sushi Geek story too, so when I saw this one I had to read it, and I'll be keeping an eye out for future stories as well. Keep up the good work!

[FurryPanda]

Awww. I was sad that this ending but it had this clipped writing that, while interesting, probably wouldn't ahve fit with a logner story. So sad that it ended, glad that it didn't go downhill. And since I can't do my usual ending comment, a very happy simsing to you and write something else!

[jenny]

Great story:)
I would love to write a short story...lol...
I look forward to others from you:)

[lethifold]

Oh...It's...over? Waaah! I wanted it to go on...
Well it was really good, and I liked the ending. I hope that you decide to write many, many more stories though, Tixi...they're so good!