~ Volume II ~ Chapter 14 ~ Episode 15 ~

It’s the day before Oliver Pickles and family head back to Windenburg. The Pickles family have been busy moving sisters Sage and Jade into their new homes and getting Elliot settled into his assisted living complex. Peter has managed to squeeze in time to spend with his new found friend Amelia. “Hi Peter. Just wondering what your plans look like for today?” Amelia asks.

“Looks like I’m gonna be busy most of the day. My cousins each got new living room furniture so I have to help get them get that situated and then my whole family is going out for a goodbye dinner. If you want, we can get together after dinner, it’ll be kinda late though.” Peter tells Amelia.

“That’s fine.” Amelia replies. “I’d like to see you. After all, you do leave tomorrow. Be sure to bring your swimsuit. I have something panned.”

***

Later that evening, Peter meets Amelia at her house. Amelia is waiting for him out front. “C’mon, let’s walk.” she says.

“Where are we going?”

“Not far. You’ll see.” Amelia replies. They walk just to the end of Amelia’s street and stop.

“What is this place?” Peter asks.

“The old community pool. It’s been abandoned for a long time now.” Amelia shows Peter to the entrance. “It’s a popular party spot on the weekends. Pretty dead during the week though.”

Peter looks around the vacant lot. Is that a DJ booth down in that pool?”

Amelia nods. “That pools been empty for years. It’s got a big crack in it. Even when it rains it doesn’t collect any water. C’mon, I’ll show you.” Peter and Amelia walk down the set of wide steps into the pool. “People like to have dance-offs down here and bonfires.”

Peter checks out the graffiti that covers the interior of the pool walls. “Nobody gets in trouble for this?”

“Well I’m sure if they got caught they would. But thankfully they didn’t.” Amelia giggles. “I actually did that one.”

“You? Innocent you tagged the pool?”

 

Amelia laughs. “C’mon, lets go for a swim.”

Peter and Amelia exit the pool. Peter gazes in the water of the pool adjacent. “You mean we’re swimming in that???”

“The water isn’t too bad,  and there’s only a little algae. Don’t be a chicken.” Amelia begins to undress revealing a lilac color bikini underneath. Peter can’t help but stare. She jumps into the water. “Come on in, the waters fine!” Stripping down to his suit, Peter dives into the pool making a big splash. “Hey!” Amelia squeals with delight and enjoyment. She splashes water at Peter. He splashes back.

The teens laugh uncontrollably as they chase each other around the pool. Peter lifts Amelia from the water and tosses her back in. She retaliates by dunking him. Out of breath and energy, they both take a break and sit on the side of the pool. “I can’t believe you threw me!” Amelia says playfully as she begins tickling Peter.

“Okay, okay, I give!” Peter surrenders. “Should we go jump off the platform?” he asks. “Is it safe?”

“Yeah, it’s safe. People use it all the time.” Amelia replies as they head to the diving platform. “You go first.” she says anxiously.

“Why, are you nervous?” Peter asks studying Amelia’s flawless face. He gazes into her blue blue eyes. “You’re beautiful Amelia.” he tells her, his heart rate increasing.

“I’m nervous now.” she whispers. Without hesitation, Peter leans in and kisses Amelia smack dab on the lips.

Peter quickly pulls back. “I, I, I’m sorry.” he stutters. “I don’t know what came over me.”

“Don’t apologize.” Amelia responds. “I liked it.” she smiles.  With their breathing heavy and their hearts racing, the teens begin kissing again and again and again, making their away around the area of the pool.

“I’ve never felt anything like this before Peter.” Amelia says. As he goes to kiss her again, Amelia’s back bumps against the storage room door causing it to pop open. With their hormones raging, the teens climb inside.

Peter slides the door closed. Slipping out of their clothes, Peter and Amelia explore each other’s bodies in ways neither of them ever have.

A bit later, Peter pops his head out to make sure the coast is clear.

“Wow!” he says as he emerges, Amelia right behind him. “I had no idea what I’ve been missing.”

Now feeling hot and sweaty, Peter and Amelia sit by the pool with their feet in the water. “I want you to know I had no intention of doing this. I swear.” Peter tells Amelia. “I really like you and I respect you.”

“I like you too Peter.” Amelia replies. C’mon, I wanna show you something.”

Amelia takes Peter by the hand and leads him to a grassy area. She lies down. “Lay with me.” she tells Peter patting the ground. “See that bright star?” Amelia says pointing to the sky. Peter nods.

“That star is called the Llama Glama. It can be seen easily from anywhere in the world. When you go home to Windenburg tomorrow, I want you to find that star in the sky and always remember me.”

“I don’t need a star to remember you Amelia. Trust me, I’ll never forget you. We’re friends for life.” Peter says. “It is getting late though, I should probably get going. Morning comes early.” Amelia walks Peter to the entrance of the pool.

“Am I gonna see you again?’ Amelia asks.

“Probably not. Our flight is set to leave at five a.m.” Peter replies.

“That’s not what I meant.” Amelia responds.

“You mean will I come back to visit? Of course! Now that I know how cool Willow Creek can be.” Peter winks. “Thanks for opening my eyes to it.” he grins as he hugs Amelia goodbye.

“I’ll catch ya later.” Peter waves. Amelia watches sadly as he goes.

She then sits on the edge of the pool dipping her feet in the water, feeling a sense of emptiness inside. As Peter walks away he feels the same emptiness in the pit of his stomach. He turns to look back.

Something deep down tells him nothing will ever be the same.

And with that, Volume II comes to and end. Sims Storybook: A Pickles Tale will be back soon. Thank you all for reading!

~ Volume II ~ Chapter 14 ~ Episode 14 ~

Three days later, Sage and Jayla’s furniture arrives from Windenburg. The Pickles family pitch in with the move carrying boxes upon boxes and numerous amounts of furniture  up several flights of stairs. “What’s next?” Wesley asks.

“Oh, hang on. That’s my phone.” Peter replies, feeling his phone vibrate from within the pocket of his athletic shorts. Looking at the caller ID. he smirks.

“It must be Ri-leeey” Wesly teases.

Peter answers. “Hello?”

“Hey Peter, it’s me Amelia. I hope I’m not bothering you. I was just wondering if you wanted to hang out later. I found a coin in one of the vending machines while I was at the laundry mat. I was thinking maybe we could meet up at Simario’s and try to beat our high score.”

“I’m helping my cousins move right now. But once I’m finished I’d love to. I’m already in Willow Creek. Why don’t I meet you at your house, we can walk together?” Peter suggests.

“Um. Uh. Okay I guess.” Amelia hesitates. “I live at thirty seven Walnut Street.”

“Thirty seven Walnut, got it.” Peter replies. “I’ll see you in a few hours then. Bye.” Wesley stands looking at Peter. “What?” Peter says.

“Teenagers!” Wesley rolls his eyes. “C’mon, help me get these boxes inside.”

***

Several hours later, Amelia is talking with her mother on the front porch when Peter begins to round the corner. “Now momma, I have a friend coming over. His name is Peter. Please try to be on your best behavior.”

“Hey!” Peter says as he nears the house. He makes his way up the creaky wooden step onto the porch. He can’t help but notice the woman’s disheveled look.

“Momma, this is Peter. Peter, this is my momma, Jane Lemons.” Amelia introduces the two.

“It’s nice to meet you ma’am.” Peter says.

Jane giggles excitedly. “It’s time for Mr. Bear’s medicine!” she says clapping her hands as she rushes inside. Peter looks to Amelia confused.

“Mr. Bear?” he questions.

“It’s her over-sized stuffed teddy. She thinks he’s real.” Amelia shrugs.

“Oh.” Peter replies. “So, this is where you live, huh?” He views the outside of the run down house with it’s boarded up window and graffiti.

“I know it’s not great but it’s all we can afford. I’m hoping to get a job soon so I can help momma with the bills. The utility company keeps shutting off our electricity and water. But hey, we’ve got a place to lay our head at night and a roof over our heads.”

“Do you mind if I use your bathroom before we go? I kept myself very hydrated carrying all those heavy boxes earlier if you know what I mean.” Peter chuckles.

“Sure.” Amelia replies opening the door. They both step inside.

“I know it’s not much to look at. I try to keep up with the cleaning and maintenance but I’m not much of a handy person. And with school and taking care of momma, it’s a lot of work.” Amelia says.

“Nice area rug.” Peter jokes pointing at the large piece of cardboard laying in the middle of the living room floor.  “You got good taste.”

Amelia frowns. “It’a not an area rug. The floor boards are weak and have holes. The mice like to try to get in through the holes. The cardboard prevents them from coming in.”

“Oh.” Peter replies feeling completely embarrassed. “Uh, bathroom?”

“Top of the stairs.” Amelia points. Peter is shocked to find a tiny bathroom with a dirt stained tub. He sighs with the thought of Amelia living there, sleeping there, bathing there.

Once back downstairs, Peter sees Jane knelt down playing with a child’s toy. “Ready to go?” Amelia asks.

***

At Simario’s Arcade and Pizzeria Peter and Amelia waste no time getting right into their gaming. Amelia pulls her coin from her pocket. “This is our lucky coin.” she says giving it a kiss before slipping it into the coin slot. As the levels climb, the teens become more and more excited.

“This is it Peter!” Amelia enthuses. “We beat this ship, we beat our high score!”

“Whoaaaaa!” Peter says trying to concentrate.

They both begin to fire rapidly. ‘PEW-PEW-PEW’ ‘PEW-PEW-PEW’ The mother ship begins to shake. “Keep firing!” Peter hollers excitedly. Seconds later, ‘KA-BOOM’! The mother ship explodes.

Ameila breaks out in laughter. “We did it! We actually did it!”

“Yes!” Peter cheers. “Look Amelia, we made it to the ‘High Scores of All Time’ list! We’re awesome!”

“We deserve a good reward for this one. How bout’ some pizza and a soda?” Peter asks.

Amelia pats the pockets of her shorts. “Sorry, fresh outta…..”

“I know I know.” Peter laughs. “I got it. C’mon”

“Table for two please.” Amelia tells the hostess.

“Ya know, you don’t have to keep spending your money on me. I’m used to having no money, remember?” Amelia giggles as she takes a bite of her pizza.

“Wait a second! You called me to come here if I do recall correctly.” Peter laughs.

“I’m just saying, there is other stuff around town to do.” Amelia explains. “How about a little sightseeing tomorrow? No simoleons needed.”

***

The next day, Peter wakes early to help his father get Elliot settled into his new place. Then he meets up with Amelia.

“Good morning. You ready for what I have planned?” Amelia says with a smile.

She hands Peter a few pieces of stale bread. “Uh, no thanks. I already ate breakfast.” Peter replies feeling awkward with the semi-hard bread in hand.

Amelia laughs. “It’s for the ducks silly.” she says as she climbs atop the giant boulders and sits with her legs crossed. “I like to come here and feed them. It’s so peaceful and quiet.” Peter joins her on the rock. They take turns tossing tiny pieces of bread into the water, watching as the ducks swim in circles. When the bread is gone Amelia stands up. “Wanna go to the park?” she asks.

The teens venture off to the Magnolia Blossom Park. There the find themselves picking apples together,

playing chess,

and they even go fishing. “Look, I caught us lunch!” Amelia calls out.

Amelia offers to fry the two small fish they caught.

As the sun begins to set, Peter and Amelia find a soft spot in the grass to lie down. “It’s been a fun day.” Peter says. “I really enjoy spending time with you. You’re not like my other friends back home.”

“Well you’re my only friend.” Amelia chuckles. “I really wish you weren’t leaving the day after tomorrow. ”

 

 

 

~ Volume II ~ Chapter 14 ~ Episode 13 ~

“What’s this place mommy?” Charlee asks Sage as she views the pink pastel shoppe that lies ahead. All the tables with the pink and white striped umbrellas draw her attention. “We already had dinner.”

“We’re not here for dinner. We’re here for dessert.” Sage replies. “Unless you don’t want dessert.” she jokes.

“I want dessert. I want dessert.” Charlee bounces up and down in place.

“This is the Willow Creek Creamery!” Talia enthuses. “They have the best ice cream!”

The two families are seated at a raised table with stools. “Cool.” Charlee giggles as she climbs up high. Her feet dangle. Everyone takes turns looking at the menu with a list of numerous ice cream flavors.

“Have you made a decision? What kind did you decide on Charlee?” Jade asks.

“Rainbow!” Charlee squeals with delight. “Rainbow my favorite.”

“What about you Tal?”

“I want mint chocolate chip, in a cone!” Talia responds.

“Oooh, I want a cone too!” Charlee adds.

“Copy cat!” Talia teases.

It doesn’t take long before the waitress serves the frozen treats. “Mint chocolate chip on a cone for you.” the waitress say handing Talia her ice cream. “And rainbow on a cone for you.” Charlee’s eyes grow wide as the waitress passes her the cone.

Charlee doesn’t hesitate before digging right in. “This tastes so yummy!” she says as she relishes in the tasty goodness. “Mmmmmm.”

The waitress then serves Jade, Jayla, Sage and Wesley their orders. “Enjoy.” she says.

“Are you okay mom?” Talia asks Jade, noticing her mother holding her head.

Jade chuckles as she nods. “I’m fine sunshine. I ate my ice cream too quickly. Now I have brain-freeze.”

Everybody laughs.

“I wish Windenburg had a creamery.” Charlee says as she continues to eat away at her ice cream cone. “Maybe when I grow up I’ll open my own an ice cream restaurant.”

“You can’t do that.” Talia replies.

“Can too.” Charlee nods. “My dad said I can do anything I set my mind to.”

Wesley clears his throat and looks over to Sage signaling to her that now is a good time to fill both Charlee and Talia in on the recent discovery. “Charlee honey, mom and I along with Uncle Wes and Auntie Jade brought you here not only for ice cream, but because we have something important that we need to talk to you about.” Sage begins.

“I get to know the news too?” Talia asks Wesley.

Wesley nods. “Uh-huh. This is a family discussion and you’re very much part of this family.” he winks. All eyes look to Sage to continue but she sits speechless. She gestures to Jade with the go-ahead.

“Charlee, there is no easy way to go about this.” Jade says. Charlee’s big blue eyes stay fixated on Jade.

“Us adults received some information that is going to be difficult for you to hear. It’ll take time for you to process, we understand this won’t be easy. It wasn’t easy for us either.” Charlee’s gaze doesn’t move. “You know what biological means, don’t you?” Jade asks. Charlee nods. “Well Charlee, as it turns out, your dad, Charles Pruitt, wasn’t really your biological father.”

“Huh?” Charlee questions. “You mean my dad wasn’t my real dad?”

“That’s correct.” Jade replies. “You see honey, your mom and Charles had been dating when you were in her belly. Once you came out of her belly and she died, Charles chose to keep you and care for you as his own daughter. He loved you so much.” Feeling overwhelmed, Charlee breaks down in tears.

Sniffling through tears, “My daddy was the only family I met.” Charlee sobs. “Now I’m a nobody.”

“I’m so sorry Charlee, I know this must be so hard. But I assure you, you’re not a nobody.” Jade says offering words of comfort.

“But there’s more.” Sage adds. “Charlee, your biological father is alive.”

Charlee gasps, covering her mouth.

“Where? Who?” Charlee asks. “Why did I never know him?”

“Well, for a long time he never knew you existed. It wasn’t until recently that he found out that he had a daughter.” Sage explains.

“Am I gonna get to meet him?” Charlee asks, hanging her head.

“You already have.” Wesley replies. “He’s sitting at this table.” Charlee sits stunned.

“You?” Charlee says, realizing that Wesley is the only male at the table. “You’re my father?”

Wesley nods. Charlee’s face goes blank as she stares.

“You mean you’re not my Uncle Wes?” Charlee says, her voice stale sounding as her mind tries to piece together the puzzle. “You’re my dad?”

“Yes Charlee, you’re right. And I’ll have you know Wesley loves you very much.” Sage tells her daughter. “We all love you. And even with Wesley being your father, that doesn’t change the fact that Jayla and I are your mothers. We’ll always be your mothers.” That statement calms Charlee’s fears and gets her to smile.

“Are you gonna come live with us in Windenburg?” Charlee asks Wesley. “Or am I only gonna see you on holidays and when people die?”

The adults can’t help but chuckle at the innocent child’s words. “Charlee, what would you think about moving here with your moms? That way you’d be closer to me and I you.”

Charlee shrugs her shoulders, unsure of how to answer. “I dunno.”

.”Wait!” Talia says trying to figure the whole relationship thing out. “If Wesley is my new dad, and he’s also Charlee’s dad, does that mean Charlee and I are sisters?” she asks excitedly.

“Step-sisters.” Jade responds.

“Charlee cracks a smile. This is awesome!” Charlee cheers. “Now I have two sisters, Michiko and you!”

“You’ve got more than just two sisters there kiddo.” Jayla tells Charlee. “You have also have two brothers.”

“I do?” Charlee questions looking confused.

“Liam and Lucas.” Jade smiles. “Those little cuties are Wesley’s sons, that makes them your brothers.”

“Oh yeah!” Charlee grins. “I have brothers!” She pauses as she thinks but her face soon begins to lack emotion.

“You okay Charlee?” Wesley asks.

Charlee nods as her big smile returns. “The kids at school can’t tease me anymore. I’m not just some orphaned foster kid. I have a family now, a real family. Wahoo!”

 

 

~ Volume II ~ Chapter 14 ~ Episode 12 ~

“Daddy, look at me!” Infinity shouts as she splashes playfully in Jade and Wesley’s pool. “I wish we had a pool.” she says flipping herself onto her back to float.

“Look out below!” Zoey screeches before plunging into the crystal clear water. She wipes the water away from her eyes, her head bobs just above the water. Zoey then grabs her sunglasses from the side of the pool and slides them on.

“There you guys are.” Peter says as he exits the house. He notices Oliver sitting on the bench next to the pool in his bathing suit. “I just finished my packing.” he says.

“Ya know, it’s been nice to see everyone but I can’t wait to get back home.” Peter continues. ” Is everyone else packed? What time does our flight leave anyway?” he asks taking a seat next to his father.

Oliver gets an uncomfortable look on his face. “Uh Peter. I assumed you knew.”

“Knew what?” Peter questions.

“I postponed our flight.” Oliver reveals.

“You what???”

“Well with your cousins and grandfather moving, I figured we can lend a hand before we go back. It’s only for another week.” Oliver replies.

“Another week?! Dad!” Peter shouts becoming angry.

“Sage and Jayla’s belongings are being packed up and delivered to Willow Creek. That’ll take a few days in itself for them to get here. I’m sorry Peter. But hey, it’s summer vacation. Enjoy it. ” Oliver says.

“How am I supposed to enjoy it when my girlfriend is four thousand miles away?!” Peter moans. “I’m going for a walk. I’ll see ya later.” Peter sulks his way through the streets of Newcrest. He drags his sneakers along the concrete sidewalk coming to an abrupt stop when his phone begins to ring. He slips the phone from the pocket of his denim jeans. “Riley.” he whispers as he views the caller ID. Sighing, Peter answers. “Hello?”

“Peter!” Riley enthuses excited to hear his voice. “I miss you, I miss you, I miss you!”

“I miss you too babe.” Peter replies.

“Oh I can’t wait to wrap my arms around you and plant lots of kisses on those cheeks of yours!” Riley giggles. “What time are you expected to land tomorrow? I’m gonna see if my mom will drive me to the airport to meet you.”

“About that.” Peter says. “As it turns out we won’t be back tomorrow after all.”

“What? How come?” Riley asks.

“I have to help some of my family move.” Peter explains. “We’re gonna be here for another week.”

“Seriously Peter?” Riley replies in an aggravated tone. “What’d ya meet up with an old girlfriend or somethin’?”

“Girlfriend?” Peter laughs. “Riley, I was just a young kid when I lived in Newcrest. Girls had cooties for Sims sake.”

Riley sits silent. “You can’t possibly be mad at me for this.” Peter says. “Riley, this wasn’t my decision.”

“Look Peter, I gotta go. I guess I’ll see you when you get back.” Riley quickly hangs up.

“What? Riley? I can’t hear what you’re saying. There’s a trolley going by.”

Being the jealous type, Riley’s thoughts run wild when she hangs up. Is he having a superb vacation rekindling some old flames, has he even thought about her while he’s been away?

“Riley? Riley?” Peter calls out. “She hung up on me.” he sighs. “Women!”

Feeling down, Peter notices a sign for a new pizzeria and arcade.

He decides to check it out.

“Hey, can I get some coins for my simoleons please?” Peter asks one of the waitresses.

She reaches into her apron. “Playing some arcade games are ya?” she says.

Peter nods. “Yeah, this place is pretty cool.”

“Here ya go. Enjoy.”

Peter slips a coin into the coin slot of the machine. He feels a surge of excitement overcome him as the game music begins to play. It takes him a few moments to get a feel for how the game controls work but within minutes Peter has it all figured out. ‘PEW-PEW’ Peter shoots. ‘ZAP ZAP‘ The noises ring out as he fires to destroy his enemy.

“C’mon!” Peter hollers at the screen as the mother ship emerges. Peter rapidly bangs the buttons.  ‘KA-LAPOWABOOOM!‘ “Yes!” he cheers as he defeats the giant ship and blows it to smithereens.

“Impressive.” a feminine voice says.

“Huh?” Peter turns around to find he has an audience.

“Hi. I’m Amelia.” she says. “I’ve never been able to beat it before.” Amelia says gesturing to the game. “You’re good.”

Peter stands looking at the girl blankly. “Do you have a name?” she giggles.

“Uh…oh yeah. I’m Peter.”

“It’s nice to meet you Peter. I haven’t see you around here before.” Amelia says.

“I’m not from Newcrest.” Peter replies. “Well I used to live here when I was a little kid but we moved to Windenburg. My grandmother passed, so we came for her funeral.”

“Aww, I’m sorry to hear that.” Amelia says sympathetically.

Peter gestures to the arcade game. “Wanna play?”

Amelia pulls the pockets from her gray capris inside out. “I’m fresh outta coins.” she says shrugging. “But it’s okay, I don’t mind watching. I watch a lot of the time.”

Peter reaches into his pocket and pulls out two coins. “Here.” he says placing one of the coins into the palm of Amelia’s hand. “I want you to play.”

“Thanks!” Amelia smiles. They each slide their coin into the game.

“Ready?” Peter asks, pressing the start button. Working together as a team, Peter and Amelia begin firing away. They make it past the first, second and third levels. “We’re unstoppable!” Peter gloats.

The teens continue to play, round after round. “Get em’ Peter! Get em’!” Amelia giggles excitedly. Finally the game comes to an end.

“Dude, we made it to level seven!” Peter beams.

“I’ve never seen anyone get that high!” Amelia says as she and Peter high five one another.

“We rock Amelia!” Peter says. “Look, we get to put our names in because we got a high score!” Peter enters their names. ‘PETER & AMELIA  214500’ “Look at that score! Two hundred fourteen thousand.”

“And five hundred.” Amelia adds.

“C’mon, let’s celebrate with a coupla root-beer floats.” Peter says heading to the restaurant side of the arcade.

“I’m fresh outta money, remember?” Amelia replies.

“Don’t worry. It’s on me.” Peter tells her.

“We’ll have two root-beer floats please.” Peter tells the waitress.

“So, tell me about yourself.” Peter says while they wait for their floats to come.

“There’s not much to tell. I’m pretty boring actually.” Amelia tells Peter.

“Boring? From what I’ve seen, you’re anything but. Most girls I know hate the arcade. What else do you like to do for fun?” he asks.

“I go swimming a lot.” Amelia says.

“You’re lucky, I wish I had a pool.”

“Oh, we don’t have a pool. I live next to one though. It’s not the greatest thing, but it gets me out of the house.”

Amelia becomes quiet as the waitress approaches. “Two root-beer floats.” the waitress says as she sets the glass mugs on the table.

“Thank you. These look great.” Amelia says with a smile.

“Mmmmmm. Tastes good too.” Peter says taking a sip. Amelia giggles when she notices Peter has a root-beer mustache. He licks it off laughing. “Do you have siblings? Is that why you like to get out of the house?” Peter asks.

“No. I’m an only child actually.” Amelia pauses. “It’s my mom, and my house.” she swallows hard. “I live in the slum section of town over in Willow Creek. My mom is clinically insane. She’s known around town as ‘insane Jane’. We live off her monthly check that she gets so we really can’t afford a nicer house.”

“Oh wow, that’s gotta be tough.” Peter replies feeling bad for Amelia.

“You’re the first person that has been nice to me in a long long time. Most people call me the ‘crazy woman’s daughter’, they don’t even acknowledge me by name. That’s why I like to come here to Newcrest. It’s a bit of a walk but it gives me time to clear my head. Besides, not many people know me here. Sometimes I find simoleonsin the sewer drains on my way and I grab a slice of pizza or a soda for a treat. Anyway, what about you?”

“I am not an only child. I come from a large family actually. I have five siblings. One brother and four sisters, one of which is my twin.”

“You have a twin? That’s so awesome!” Amelia replies seeming to forget about her own circumstances. “What about a girlfriend? A cute guy like you can’t be single.”

Peter blushes. “Yeah…I’ve been seeing someone. But she’s mad at me right now.” he shrugs. “She likes when things go her way and her way only. Kinda bossy if you ask me.”

“Then why are you dating her?” Amelia questions.

Peter shrugs. I dunno, I mean I like her and all.”

Realizing she brought up a sore subject, Amelia excuses herself from the table. “I better get going. It was nice meeting you Peter. Thanks for the float. I haven’t had something that tasty in a long time.”

“Hey Amelia.” Peter says catching the girl before she goes. “I’m in town for another week. You maybe wanna hang out again before I go back to Windenburg?”

Amelia can’t help hide her smile. “Sure.” she replies. “As long as your girlfriend won’t get mad.”

“Ah, she’ll be fine. Here, give me your number.” Peter says pulling out his phone.

“It’s 555-0024” Amelia says as Peter adds her contact info to his phone.

“Gimme yours too.” Amelia says pulling out her phone.

“Mine is 212-4031.” Peter says watching Amelia type the number in. “You can call or text me anytime ya know.”

Amelia smiles. “Okay.” she says feeling all giddy inside.

“Well, I guess I’ll see ya soon then.” Peter waves. “Bye Amelia.”

 

 

~ Volume II ~ Chapter 14 ~ Episode 11 ~

Excited that their scheduled time has come to view the duplex, Sage, Jayla, Wesley and Jade make their way up Center Street in the town of Willow Creek. “This is it.” Wesley says as they approach the charcoal colored brick buildings. “This is twelve and fourteen Center Street.”

The four of them make their way up the stairs to the first apartment. “I’m so excited.” Sage says. “I really hope we like it.”

“The listing said that number twelve has three bedrooms and number fourteen has four bedrooms.” Wesley informs the group

“So this one would be ours then?” Jayla confirms.

“Wow…green!” Sage says, the lime green cabinets immediately catching her attention.

“I love the island!” Jayla enthuses.

“Not a bad amount of living space.” Wesley says as he surveys the area.

“I think it’s cute.” Jade adds. “It gets lots of natural light.”

Sage peers out the back door. “We have a pool guys.” she says. “With a decent size yard.”

“Think I can transfer Grammie’s garden to this yard?” Sage asks.

“We can certainly do that if we take the place.” Wesley nods. “That shouldn’t be too difficult.”

“I just know how much she loved that garden. I’d hate to leave it behind for it to wither away and die.”

Wesley and Jade venture outside to get a better look at the yard while Sage and Jayla continue touring the apartment. Heading upstairs, they enter the first door they come to. “This isn’t a bad size bedroom. Either Michiko or Charlee would fit in here perfectly.” Jayla says as she looks around.

Wesley and Jade meet up with them in the next bedroom. “Everything’s so white!” Jade says eyeballing the bleak walls.

“We’ll spruce em’ up! They won’t be white for long.” Sage replies.

After inspecting the bathroom, Sage, Jayla, Wesley and Jade all make their way to the third floor. “This must be the master.” Jayla says turning the door handle. She pushes the door open.

“Whoa!” Sage exclaims when she sees the size of the room. “This is enormous!”

“Sage, check it out! We’d have our own balcony!” Jayla says peering through the glass doors. “The view is exquisite!”

“I’ll admit…..I’m kinda jealous.” Jade smiles.

“Jealous? We haven’t even seen the other apartment yet!” Sage chuckles.

“Well there’s no better time than the present.” Wesley says waving the others on. “Let’s go see what color ‘our‘ cabinets are.” he laughs as he leads the way. Wesley opens the front door to the second apartment. “Purple cabinets!” he shrieks.

“Purple???” Jade hollers. “You’re kidding!”

Wesley bursts into laughter. “Yup, I’m just kidding, they’re wooden.”

“This apartment looks so different than the other one.” Sage says having a look around.

“This is much more my style.” Jade replies as she open a few of the cabinets and peeks inside.

“So you’re saying green is our style?” Sage asks her sister sarcastically.

Jade approaches Sage and Jayla. “Well judging by the color of your shirts, I’d say yes.” she laughs. Sage and Jayla can’t help but break out into laughter when they realize they both are wearing green shirts.

“C’mon, let’s go see the upstairs.”

Wesley and Jade enter the bedroom at the top of the stairs. “Hhhmmm….it’s not very big but it does have a balcony with a view overlooking the bay. Think this is the master?” Jade questions.

Wesley shrugs. “I dunno. I guess it could be. It’s not like we need a whole lot of space in the bedroom. All we do is sleep in it.”

“All we do is sleep in it huh?” Jade says in a flirty tone. She kisses Wesley gently sucking at his bottom lip. “We don’t do anything else? Are you sure about that?” Jade asks as she teases Wesley by doing a few enticing dance moves.

“Get over here you!” Wesley grabs a hold of Jade pulling her close and kissing her neck. She giggles loudly.

Overhearing her sister and brother-in-law, “Enough you two!” Sage hollers from the other room. “You have to wait until we at least sign the papers.” Jayla laughs at Sage’s response.

Next, the family checks out the third floor bedrooms. “Tal and Charlee could reside up here together.” Wesley says as they walk up the staircase.

“Reside? Wes, you make it sound like the girls will never come downstairs.” Jade laughs.

“You know what I mean.”

“I’m sure Charlee and Talia would love it up here.” Sage says admiring the room. “They’re gonna be so happy to find out they’re gonna be living together.”

“Living together? Wait till they find out they’re step-sisters!” Wesley adds.

“Oh yeah!” Sage’s mouth drops. “I didn’t even think about that!”

“Let’s take a look at the last bedroom.” Jade says leading the way down the hall.

“So this is it. The last of the rooms. I really like what I’ve seen. But my opinion isn’t the only one that counts. What does everybody else think?” Wesley asks.

Jade takes one last look around the room.

“I like it. I think it’s great.” she replies. “I could totally live here.”

“What about you Jay? What do you think?” Sage questions Jayla.

Jayla beams from ear to ear. “Are you kiddin’? Do you even have to ask? I love it!”

“How about you Sage? Do you like it?”

” I do. I do like it……a lot. I think it’s perfect!” Sage grins. She turns and hugs her sister. “I owe you an apology Jade. I wasn’t very nice to you. I thought I was gonna lose Charlee and I panicked. I’m sorry.”

“It’s okay. I understand.” Jade replies. “I should have come straight to you when we found out about Charlee being Wesley’s daughter. I promise I’ll never keep anything from you ever again.”

“Our family grows yet again.” Sage smiles. “Charlee is officially part of the family. Sims Services can’t take her away., not from Wesley anyway.”

“It’s like Grammie always used to say…..’There’s always room in the Pickle jar for one more.'”

“So we’re all in agreement?” Wesley confirms. “We want the duplex?”

Sage, Jayla and Jade all nod their heads. “Wesley?” Sage says as she approaches. “Thank you for not taking Charlee away from Jayla and I. Our hearts would have been crushed.”

“I know.” Wesley replies. “It’s not only obvious how much you love her but how much she loves you. I’m not here to compete for Charlee’s love. I’m here to love her unconditionally. No child can ever have too much love.”

With tears in her eyes, Sage wraps her arms around Wesley. “You’re one heck of a guy Wesley Simeon. Charlee is lucky to have you as a father.”

 

 

 

 

~ Volume II ~ Chapter 14 ~ Episode 10 ~

Later the same evening, Sage, Jayla, Wesley and Jade decide it’s a good time to tell the rest of family the news about Wesley being Charlee’s biological father and also about the move that will be taking place. Peter, Piper and Alexis opt to stay back, order pizza and watch all the younger children while the rest of the family goes out to a Hawaiian themed restaurant called “Lei’d Back“.

“Welcome to Lei’d Back.” the hostess greets the family. “How many in your party?”

“Eight.” Elliot responds. “We’d like to eat outside if at all possible.”

The hostess checks the seating availability and shows the Pickles to their seats out back. She hands everyone a menu. “Your waitress will be with you shortly.”

“Everything looks so good. It’s hard to choose.” Jade says scanning the menu.

“I know it. They have quite a selection.” Aiden replies.

“Ooooohh!” Sage says pointing to her menu. “They have root beer floats. I haven’t had one of those in ages. I think I’ll get one.” she smiles.

The waitress comes to take their orders. “For you miss?” she asks Jade.

“I’ll have the hamburger, cooked well done please, with a root beer float to drink.”

“I’m getting a float too!” Sage giggles.

Once finished taking the orders, the waitress goes back to the kitchen to give the orders to the cooks. They get straight to work on preparing the meals.

While they wait for their meal, the Pickles reminisce about family trips and funny stories. Sage swats at a fly that is bothersome. “What’s the matter Sage, you don’t like bugs anymore?” Aiden asks with laughter in his voice.

“What are you talking about dad?’ Sage replies.

“When you were little, you couldn’t get enough of bugs.”

“I remember that!” Jade chuckles. “Every bug in sight you had to try to catch, just to see if you could get it!”

Sage thinks back…..

“I remember I loved catching ladybugs. They’re a symbol of good luck!”

“And what about fireflies?” Anika questions. “Are those good luck too?”

“No. Those were just cool.” Sage replies.  C’mon, a bug that could light up it’s butt!”

The family laughs. “How about bees Sage? Did you like catching bees?” Aiden chuckles.

Sage shoots her father an unpleasant look. “No! Those bees attacked me!” she says as she begins to laugh. “I was minding my own business too.”

Sage’s memories are quickly interrupted by the waitress’ voice. “These plates are hot.” she says nearing the table with a tray full of steaming food.

“Let me know if you need anything else.” the waitress says after placing the food and drinks on the table.

“How about a toast?” Anika says as she raises her glass. “To our family!” she says. “It’s nice that we’re all together.”

“To our family.” the family repeat as they raise their glasses.

After dinner is finished and the tables are cleaned, Wesley rises so he and Jade can make the first of the announcements. “What is this about Wesley?” Oliver questions.

“Yeah, what news do you have to share? Please don’t tell me you two are pregnant again,” Aiden chuckles.

“Dad!” Jade says, her voice raised. Anika gives Aiden a sideways stare.

“No, we’re not pregnant. But we do have an addition joining our family.” Jade says grinning. “Remember how Wesley was searching for his biological daughter? Well, she was found.”

“That’s terrific news.” Anika replies. “When do we get to meet her?”

“You already have mom.” Sage says joining the group.

“I don’t understand.” Anika says looking confused.

“As it turns out, Charlee is Wesley’s daughter.” Sage reveals.

“Wh…wh…what?” Anika stutters, her eyes wide. “Charlee? Your Charlee?”

“Uh-huh.” Sage nods. “Crazy, right?” she shrugs. Oliver stares at Wesley, unsure of what to say.

“Wait a minute here.” Aiden says with confusion. “I thought Charlee’s father died in a fire?”

“So didn’t we dad.” Jade replies calmly. “That was until Wesley began his search through a private investigation agency. Through thorough searching they discovered Charles Pruitt was not in fact Charlee’s biological father. He raised Charlee since birth after Charlee’s mother Charleen died. He never once told anybody he wasn’t her biological father. Everyone just assumed.”

“Jade honey, this puts you all in a very difficult situation.” Aiden says. “Where is Charlee gonna live? I mean, Sage and Jayla are so close to finalizing the adoption. Who are her parents gonna be?”

Anika looks to Sage with sadness in her eyes. The assumption that Sage’s heart will once again be ripped from her tears at Anika’s heartstrings.

“Mom, don’t look at me like that. We already have that all figured out.” Sage responds. “We all sat down and talked about what’s best for everybody.”

“So what did you come up with?” Aiden asks. “This is not an easy fix.”

“We’re moving home!” Jayla announces.

“Moving home? But…..?”

“Like I said, we have it all figured out. Wesley, Jade, Jayla and I are gonna be neighbors. We have an appointment to look at a duplex tomorrow in Willow Creek.”

“And what about Grandpa? Did you forget about him?” Anika asks.

“Well of course Grandpa too!” Jade giggles.

Elliot begins to fidget in his seat. “Are you okay dad?” Aiden asks. “I’m sorry the kids just sprung this on you like this.”

“I, uh……” Elliot begins. “I believe I forget to mention that I began looking into my own new living arrangements.”

“What?” the family says simultaneously, their eyes focused on Elliot.

“Well I don’t need any of you carrying the burden of looking after me. It was a great help while Naomi was alive……”

“Grandpa, like I told you before, Grammie was not a burden and neither are you.” Jade assures Elliot. “We planned on you moving with us.”

“I know. It’s just….I don’t want to live out my days ‘feeling’ like a burden to anyone. And besides, I found this great place. It’s an assisted living housing. I’ll have my own space, with access to a community center. I’ll be around people my own age so I’ll be able to make friends. I think it’ll be the perfect fit.”

“We all know how life can change in an instant. I mean look at you and Anika.” Elliot says to Aiden. “Sweet Bristol battling Simphoma, having to stay in the hospital. That all happened so rapidly. And now the kids will be sharing custody of little Charlee.” he says gesturing to Sage, Jayla, Jade and Wesley. “They need their own space to grow as a family.”

“Then move in with us dad.” Aiden says. “Hunter has been looking for his own apartment. You can have his room.”

“I don’t want Hunter’s room. I don’t want anybody’s room. I don’t want a room in somebody’s house. I want my own place where I have the ability to care for myself. The assisted living complex will provide me with my own studio style apartment which will allow me to live independently but also offer a wide range of services if needed. Please don’t fight me on this. Please don’t take away my dignity.”

And with that, the Pickles family prepare themselves for plenty of changes to come.

 

 

 

 

~ Volume II ~ Chapter 14 ~ Episode 9 ~

The next morning at the motel Jayla and Charlee are having breakfast together. “Can we go back to Auntie Jade’s and Uncle Wes’ today, pleeeaaase?” Charlee begs. “We only have two more days until we go back home. And I miss Talia.”

“We’ll see sweetheart.” Jayla replies. “Now finish up your cereal.”

Just then Sage’s phone rings. “It’s Jade.” Sage mutters looking at the caller ID.

“Answer it.” Jayla tells her. “Talking to her is the only way we’re going to figure any of this out.”

“Hello?” Sage answers, her voice monotonous and flat sounding.

Sage listens as her sister speaks. Moments later she hangs up. Sage sighs deeply while shrugging, “She and Wesley want us to meet them to talk.”

“Yay!” Charlee cheers. “Does that mean I can play with Talia?”

Jayla pulls Sage off to the side of the room away from Charlee. “Obviously this needs to be talked about, but did she say what they wanted to do?” Jayla asks.

Sage shakes her head from side to side. “No. Only that they really needed to speak to us. She said to meet them at the coffee shop in Newcrest in an hour.” Sage pauses as she thinks. “Do you think it’s a trap? Should we just pack our stuff and get on the next flight back to Windenburg?”

Jayla takes Sage by the hands. “Sage, now you’re being paranoid. We need to face this situation head on, regardless of the outcome. Fact is, Wesley is Charlee’s father. If he wants custody, he’s gonna get it. Let’s meet them and see what they have to say.”

***

After dropping Charlee and Michiko off with Aiden and Anika, Sage and Jayla arrive at the Brewed Awakening Cafe in Newcrest.

Inside they find Wesley and Jade have already arrived and have found a place to sit. Sage and Jayla each take a seat across from them. Both couples are quiet until Jade breaks the awkward silence. “Look, these circumstances that we have found ourselves in don’t have to come between us like this.” Jade begins.

Sage immediately responds. “Don’t have to come between us??? Jade…you deliberately kept an important piece of information from me!”

“I know. I know.” Jade’s voice fades as she puts her hand to her head in frustration and regret.

“It’s my fault.” Wesley says. “I told her not to tell you. I wanted to figure out how to tell you and when to tell you. It was all such a big shock, I wasn’t even sure what I wanted to do.” Wesley hangs his head.

“You mean you don’t know if you even wan’t custody of Charlee or not?” Jayla asks anxiously.

“No. That’s no question.” Wesley replies. “I want custody. I want to be a part of her life. I want to know her and for her to know me.”

Sage can feel the tears beginning to surface. She tries to contain her emotions.

“Wesley, I understand your feeling of needing to be a part of Charlee’s life. I really do. But do you have any idea what it feels like to fall in love with a child and have them ripped away from you? Do you?” Sage questions Wesley. “Well I do! And I’ll tell you both something. If you take this little girl from us, it’ll be the last time we ever speak!”

“Sage, I’m not some kind of monster! I can’t believe you would think I would ever intentionally hurt you. You have experienced so much pain and hurt during your childhood, hurting you would be the last thing I would ever want to do.” Jade tells her sister.

“So what does this all mean?” Sage questions. “Clearly this isn’t the story of ‘Solomon’ where we cut Charlee in half. Only one of us can have her.”

“Maybe not.” Jade grins.

“Huh?” Sage replies looking confused.

“Well….Wesley and I have been racking our brains.” Jade says looking at her husband.

“We think we may have come up with the perfect solution to our dilemma.” Wesley says.

“You and Jayla move back here!” Jade proposes.

“What? Move back?” Sage replies. “Oh I dunno.” she says scratching the back of her neck nervously.

“We just bought the house, and I just got the bakery up and running smoothly.”

“Honestly Sage, Ivy’s been doing a great job at the bakery. Beside’s, your Uncle Oliver is right there should something happen. It’s really no different than leaving the bakery here.” Jayla tells Sage. “And it’s easy enough to sell the house.”

“So you’re on board with this whole moving idea?” Sage asks Jayla.

“If it’s to keep Charlee, I’ll do anything I have to.”

“But how would this fix the problem?” Sage asks. “Charlee is still gonna have to live with one of us. She can’t possibly live in two places at once.”

“Actually, we think she can.” Wesley replies.

“That doesn’t make sense.” Sage says furrowing her brow.

“Again, Wesley and I talked. What if we were to be neighbors?!”

“You mean we’d live next door to each other?”

“Uh-huh.” Jade nods. “Charlee could have a room at each of our houses! Kids do it all the time with divorced parents. Except we’d be right next door to each other. There’d be no set schedule or court rulings. Charlee would have her moms and her dad at her fingertips! She could go back and forth as she pleases. ”

“Ooooh, I love this idea!” Jayla screeches.

“There’s a duplex for sale down on Center Street in Willow Creek. If you guys are interested, we could always go take a look.” Jade suggests.

“Hhhmmm.” Sage thinks. She pictures the idea of Charlee able to stay with her and Jayla while having the ability to grow up knowing her father as well. It seems like a win-win for everyone.

“So whadda ya think Sage?” Jayla asks. “It does sound like the perfect solution.”

A smile fills Sage’s face. “I think we’re movin’ back home!”

 

~ Volume II ~ Chapter 14 ~ Episode 8 ~

After finishing dessert at Chez Llama, Jade catches the waitresses attention. “Excuse me. Can you please tell me where the ladies room is please?” she asks.

“Certainly. It’s at the top of the staircase, can’t miss it.” the waitress replies.

Jade excuses herself from the table asking Talia if she needs to use the restroom too. “No. I’m okay.” Talia tells her.

“I think I’ll come.” Sage says getting up from her seat. Jade and Sage gossip and giggle as they make their way through the restaurant and up the staircase. “What’d you think of the food?” Sage asks as she presses the lever on the toilet to flush.

“It was alright. Not my favorite place to eat in town.” Jade turns on the water faucet and begins washing her hands.

Sage stands silently watching as her sister rinses the soap bubbles from her fingertips. “Jade, can I asks you a question?” she says. “Ya know how I told you about Charlee’s biological father?”

“Yeah.” Jade replies becoming anxious.

“Well, I can’t shake the feeling that he’s gonna take Charlee from us. But Jayla thinks that maybe since he hasn’t had her thus far, he might just sign over his rights. What do you think Jade? What’s your opinion on the situation?” Sage asks her sister.

“Oh gosh Sage. I don’t know.” Jade answers biting her knuckle feeling extremely uncomfortable.

“I know you don’t know for sure, but I’m just trying to prepare myself here. Just in case, ya know?” Sage tells Jade.

“Can we not talk about this right now?” Jade replies, beads of sweat forming on her brow. She begins fanning herself with her hand.

“Jade, what is wrong with you?” Sage asks. “You’re getting all weirded out on me here.”

“It’s just that, um….”

“I don’t even know how to say this.” Jade continues, her knowledge of the truth eating away at her.

“Say what?” Sage questions.

Not wanting to lie or keep this secret any longer, Jade spills the beans. “I already knew about Charlee’s biological father before you even told me.” she begins.

“What? But how?” Sage questions. “I don’t understand. Who would have told you something so private about Charlee?”

“A local investigation agency.” Jade replies, wondering if she made a poor choice in saying something.

“A local investigation agency? What would an investigation agency want with Charlee?”

“Wesley contacted them to locate his child.” Jade pauses. “Sage, Charlee is Wesley’s daughter.”

Sage stands quiet for a moment trying to process the information.

“You’ve got to be kidding me right?” Sage replies, her heart beginning to pound. “How is it that Wesley is Charlee’s father? That makes absolutely no sense!”

“Wesley and Charlee’s mother Charleen dated for quite some time.” Jade tells Sage. “They broke up before Charleen knew she was pregnant with Charlee.”

“F*#K!” Sage shouts angrily.

Emotions begin to run high. “And you never thought to tell me?” Sage says holding back tears of hurt. “Jade, how could you?”

“Sage, we didn’t know how! We just found out about this ourselves!” Jade pleads for Sage not to be angry with her. “Please, just listen!”

“I can’t believe you would keep this kind of thing from your own sister! We don’t keep secrets Jade!”  Sage shouts angrily. “Or at least I didn’t think we did. Don’t talk to me ever again!”

Sage storms out of the bathroom, slamming the door behind her. “Sage, please wait!” Jade sobs.

Sage enters the dining area scowling. Jayla immediately senses something is wrong. “Sage hunny, is everything okay?” she asks.

Wesley instantly knows that Jade has disclosed the truth about him fathering Charlee. “Oh boy!” he says. “Sage, let’s talk.”

“We’re leaving!” Sage hollers. She tosses her portion of the bill on the table. “Jayla, let’s go. Me, you and Charlee are outta here!”

***

Sage quickly stops back at Jade and Wesley’s house to pick up Michiko from the sitter and to grab their belongings. “Where are we going?” Charlee asks from the backseat of the car.

“We’re spending the night in a motel. You couldn’t pay me to stay at THAT house! I’m never going back there again!” Sage stammers. A short time later, Sage and Jayla arrive at a small motel just outside of town. “Let’s try this one. They must have vacant rooms.”

“Good evening folks. How can I help you?” Kurt Jansen the motel manager asks from behind the desk.

“We need a room for the night please.” Sage tells him.

“Just the three of you?” he asks.

“Well us three and the baby.” Sage tells him gesturing to Michiko.

Kurt runs his fingers quickly over the keyboard as he looks over the computer screen. “Looks like you’re in luck. I have a room with two double beds available.”

“We’ll take it!” Sage says.

“Do we hafta stay here?” Charlee asks. “Why can’t we go back to Auntie Jade and Uncle Wes’?”

“It’s adult stuff Charlee.” Jayla responds calmly, still unsure of what has happened. “Mom said we’re staying here tonight, we’re staying here tonight.”

“But she said she’s never going back there again!” Charlee replies angrily. “So that’s it? I never get to see Talia or Auntie Jade or Uncle Wes again?”

“Charlee enough. Please!” Sage orders.

“Your room key ma’am.” Kurt says handing Sage the key to their motel room. “You’ll be staying in room one. It’s the first room on the right.”

“Thank you.” Sage replies heading straight for their room. “Room one. This is it.” she says locating the room.

Sage slips the key in the keyhole. Jiggling the key a few times, the door swings open. “Well this isn’t too bad.” she says as they enter.

“There’s two big beds.” Charlee says.

“Yup, you get an entire big bed to yourself tonight.” Jayla smiles.

“Look! There’s a talking llama toy!” Charlee enthuses. “Can I play with it?” she asks.

“I don’t see why not.” Jayla responds. “Somebody probably left it here by accident.” Jayla gets Michiko settled into her bassinet. The baby falls fast asleep rather quickly. “How about a little television before bed?” she says to Charlee.

“Yeah!” Charlee cheers excitedly. With the llama toy in hand, Charlee climbs onto the bed. “Yay! Lost Dog’s Journey Home is on!” Her eyes become glued to the television screen.

After a while, Charlee begins to get sleepy. “Why don’t you get your jammies on and hop into bed. It’s getting late.” Sage tells her. Charlee does as told and is asleep shortly after her head hits the pillow.

“Care to tell me what tonight was all about?” Jayla asks, having been patiently waiting for Charlee to be asleep before asking. “What the heck happened at Chez Llama?”

“Oh my Sims Jay.” Sage holds her head.

“I never once thought Jade would ever keep something from me. Turns out I was wrong.” she continues.

“Why? What?” Jayla asks. Sage turns and looks Jayla straight in the eye. “Sage, you’re scaring me.”

Sage swallows hard. “Charlee’s mystery father……is Wesley Simeon.”

Jayla’s mouth gapes open.

“What? But that doesn’t make any sense.” Jayla says trying to make some sense of it.

“Wesley and Charleen were lovers Jay!” Sage explains. “They conceived Charlee and Wesley never knew. Charles Pruitt never told a single soul that Charlee wasn’t his.”

“This is crazy.” Jayla replies. “Wesley? For real?”

“He’s gonna want her. You watch. And because he’s her biological father and never gave up his rights he’s gonna get her. Just wait, you’ll see.” Jayla stares at Sage blankly. “What? Why are you looking at me like that?” Sage asks.

“Sage, she’s his child.” Jayla replies. “If you found out you had a child, wouldn’t you want them? Wouldn’t you want your child to know you?”

“Seriously? You’re taking their side?”

“Sage, I’m not taking sides. I’m thinking about Charlee here.”

“I’m going to bed. Goodnight Jayla.” Sage says as she changes into her pajamas. “I’m done talking about this.” Without uttering another word, Sage climbs into bed pulling the covers over her head.

Jayla uses the bathroom and changes her clothes. She climbs into bed next to Sage. “Sage, please talk to me.” she pleads. But Sage doesn’t answer. With that, Jayla rolls over and clicks off the motel room light. -Click- 

 

 

 

 

~ Volume II ~ Chapter 14 ~ Episode 7 ~

After enduring several days of emotional stress over the loss of Naomi, Sage and Jayla offer to take Elliot, Jade, and Wesley along with Talia and Charlee out to dinner. They decide to try the new restaurant in town, Chez Llama. “Is Chetz Llama fancy?” Charlee asks.

Sage giggles. “It’s Chez Llama and yes, it is a fancy restaurant.

“Is that why we’re getting all dressed up?”

“Uh-huh.” Sage nods slipping her bracelet onto her wrist.

When the family arrives at Chez Llama, they are amazed by the unique interior design and pleasant atmosphere the establishment possesses. Immediately they are greeted by a well groomed gentlemen wearing a tux. “Welcome to Chez Llama.” the maitre d’ says. “How many of you will be dining with us this evening?”

“You mean we’re eating with him?” Talia questions, a confused look upon her face.

Jade can’t help but laugh. “No sweetie. He’s the maitre d’. He shows us to our table.”

“Table for seven please.” Elliot tells the man.

“Very well. Right this way please.” he replies leading the family to their table.

The group takes several minutes to look over the menus and decide on their dinner and drink choices. “Are you all set to order?” the waitress asks.

“Tell the waitress what you want to eat girls.” Jayla tells Talia and Charlee.

“I want the Space Taco please.” Talia says, excited to try something new.

Charlee sits making a face. “Charlee, what’s the matter?” Sage asks.

“They don’t have anything I like.”

“They don’t have anything you’ve tried.” Jayla corrects her. “How about the Semi Firm Beef Noodles? You like noodles.”

Charlee shrugs her shoulders. “Okay. I’ll have those I guess.” Sage gives Charlee the ole’ “mom look.” “Please.” Charlee adds.

Jayla points at her menu in hand, “And I’ll have the Tiger Shrimp in Smoked Dew Broth please.”

While they wait for their food, Charlee and Talia are both entertained as the glass paneling allows for them to view the chef while she prepares meals. “Whoa!” Charlee shrieks with excitement as the chef spins her cutting-board in mid-air.

“How’d she do that?!” Talia giggles. “That was awesome!”

With the restaurant busy and time slowly ticking by, Wesley notices a vacant piano close by. “I’m going to go tickle the ivories a bit.” he tells Jade, excusing himself from the table.

“Where ya going Uncle Wes?” Charlee asks.

“Goin’ to play the piano while we wait.”

“Ooooh, can I come?” Charlee asks, the piano lover that she is.

“Yeah, can we come?” Talia questions.

“Sure. Come on!” Wesley replies.

Sage and both girls follow Wesley to where the piano sits. “You’re not gonna get into trouble are you?” Sage asks. Wesley shrugs unsure of the answer to that question.

“Guess we’ll find out.” he says with a smile.

“Well are ya any good?” Without answering, Wesley begins to play. Beautiful music emerges.

“I’m impressed Wesley.” Sage tells him. “I didn’t know you had musical talent.”

“Uncle Wes, you’re REALLY good.” Charlee says.

“It sounds beautiful.” Talia adds.

Wesley grins as he plays. “Music is the voice of the soul ya know.”

“Hey!” Charlee screeches. “That’s what my Heaven mommy used to say! That music is the voice of the soul. How’d you know that Uncle Wes?”

Caught off guard, Wesley immediately stops playing.

Tired of the long wait, Elliot seeks out restaurant staff. “Excuse me! Excuse me!” he says waving down a waiter. “We ordered our meal quite some time ago. Shall I add that we have two very hungry young girls and one cranky old man at our table.”

“I’m so sorry sir. I do apologize. I’ll check on your order and get it out to you right away.” the waiter replies.

“Food should be coming soon.” Elliot tells Sage and Wesley as he returns to the table. They promptly follow Elliot back to the table, Wesley crushed by Charlee’s words. How he wishes he could just tell her that he knew her mother. How she was the one that taught him to play piano. He could share so many memories of Charleen with Charlee, the mother she never had the chance to know. Feeling so many overwhelming emotions makes Wesley’s mind muddled.

“I think that’s our food!” Charlee enthuses as she sees a waiter with a covered tray coming their way.

The waiter places everyone’s meals in front of them. Wesley ponders over his plate. “Well this certainly looks interesting.”

“Mine’s pretty interesting too.” Jayla says analyzing her bowl of tiger shrimp in smoked dew broth.

As Sage takes a bite of her own meal, she hears a strange sound. Looking up, she finds Charlee’s cheeks about ready to burst.

Swallowing hard, “Ewwwwww!” Charlee says choking down what’s left in her mouth. “This is disgusting!”

“My Volcano Pasta isn’t so bad.” Jade says. “Although I’m not sure what this sauce is.”

Once the family is through with their entrees, the waitress clears their table. “Does anyone care for any dessert tonight?” she asks.

Charlee and Jayla glance over the menu. “How about the Vertical Berry Cake?” she suggests to Charlee.

Charlee nods. “It’s gotta taste better than those noodles!”

“So Wesley.” Sage says making conversation. “Where did you hear that quote about music being the voice of the soul before?”

Rapidly becoming nervous, “Uh….I’m really not sure. Something I must have picked up from somewhere I guess.” he replies.

“What is Sage talking about?” Jade whispers to Wesley.

“Up at the piano, I made a reference to something Charleen used to say. Little did I know Charlee knew it came from her mother!”

“Wes.” Jade says anxiously. “We’ve GOT to tell Sage the truth about you being Charlee’s father.”

“Vertical Berry Cake for you. And one for you.” the waitress says placing the plates of dessert down on the table. “Can I get you folks anything else?”

“No, I think we’re all set.” Jade smiles just wanting to get back to her and Wesley’s conversation.

“Now this is more like it!” Charlee beams from ear to ear, her mountainous cake before her.

“Wes, the longer we wait to say something, the angrier Sage will be that we didn’t say something sooner.” Jade continues. “Keeping this from her makes me feel like I’m lying to her. I never lie to Sage. We tell each other everything.”

Wesley folds his arms in front of him. “We’re not telling her Jade. Not yet.”

“Besides, this isn’t something that we did. This is new to us as well.” Wesley adds.

Jade glares at Wesley. “You remember this Wesley Simeon, lies cut the heart and secrets scar the soul.”

 

~ Volume II ~ Chapter 14 ~ Episode 6 ~

After Naomi’s memorial service, the Pickles family gather together at Jade and Wesley’s house.This gives the entire family more time to remember Naomi and celebrate her life. With the help of her mother Anika, Jade prepares an assortment of refreshments to serve. The family begins piling in and the house quickly becomes crowded. As Wesley enters, he is immediately spotted. “Uncle Wes!” Charlee calls out excitedly.

She scurries across the room to where Wesley is standing, her shoes making a clicking sound against the hardwood. “I’ve been helping my mom with all three babies!” Charlee squeals with delight. “And guess what?” she says without pause. “I get to stay here at your house for a few days!”

“Well that’s exciting now isn’t it?” Wesley replies, feeling completely awkward as he gazes into the eyes of his daughter. It is then for the first time that he sees Charlee’s mother, Charleen Cotton reflecting back at him.

“It is exciting! First you guys came to my house now I came to yours! I love having so much family. Before it was only me and my dad. He didn’t have no one else.” Charlee frowns. She reaches out to Wesley. “Hug!” she says giggling.

“Oh, silly me.” Wesley responds as he bends down wrapping his arms around her. The feeling of having his daughter in his arms is an overwhelming feeling.

“There you are!” Talia laughs as she approaches. “I’ve been looking for you Charlee. Wanna go play in my room?”

“Yeah!” Charlee replies excitedly. “See ya later Uncle Wes!” Charlee waves as she and Talia go skipping up the stairs.

Wesley makes his way toward the kitchen to help himself to a plate of food. “She really likes you.” Sage says stopping Wesley on his way by.

“Huh?” Wesley replies.

“Charlee. She must really like you. She doesn’t usually talk to just anybody.”

Feeling uncomfortable, “Yeah well, I’m not just anybody. She’s met me before.” Wesley says squeezing his way through the kitchen doorway past Sage. An unsettling feeling comes over him as he thinks about the whole situation. Wesley quickly loses his appetite. Commotion coming from the dining area catches his attention.

“You couldn’t even be respectful enough to be at Grammie’s service today?” Peter says to Dillon who sits across the table from him. His words catch Aiden and Hunter off guard.

“Well if you must know little brother, there were problems with my flight. I tried to get here on time.” Dill tells Peter trying to keep things calm.

“Well we flew here from Windenburg with no issues.” Peter responds negatively.

“Whoa, Peter.” Hunter chimes in. “What’s with the attitude? Dill got here as quickly as he could. Lay off, will ya?”

“What-ever!” Peter replies as he gets up from his seat.

“Look, I don’t know what your deal is but now is not the time or the place for it.” Hunter says becoming angry. “We all lost a very important person in our life. That should be our focus.”

Peter exits the dining room. “When are we going home?” he asks Oliver sighing dramatically.

“Going home?” Oliver says. “Peter, we just got here. We’re staying in town for a few days son. Why? Is everything okay?”

“It’s just that Rylie……” Peter begins.

“Your girlfriend? This is about your girlfriend???” Oliver responds becoming infuriated. “MY MOTHER IS DEAD AND YOU’RE TELLING ME THAT YOU MISS YOUR GIRLFRIEND?!?!”

“Peter Pickles! Have some compassion, will ya! I don’t want to hear one word about your precious Rylie while we’re here. Do you understand me?”

Never seeing his father so angry in his life, Peter nods. “Yeah. Dad, I’m sorry.” he apologizes.

Once Oliver is caught up in other conversation, Piper approaches her brother. “What the heck was that about? You had him raging!”

“Nuthin’.” Peter replies as he pulls his vibrating phone from his pocket. “It’s Rylie. Look, I gotta go take this outside or this just may not be the only service the family will be attending this week.”

The day continues with stories shared of Naomi’s past. There is laughter, there is tears. “Jay, I’ve been so wrapped up in everything.” Sage says to Jayla. “Thank you for sitting with Michiko and the twins today. I appreciate it and I know Jade does too.”

“She thanked me already, several times.” Jayla laughs. “It’s time for diaper changes so I gotta run! I’ll be back down in a few.”

“Need help?

“Naw! I got a system now. You visit with your family.” Jayla says hurrying off.

“Okay.” Sage chuckles.

“What’s so funny?” Jade asks.

“Jayla and her diaper changing system.” Sage replies. “She’s got it all under control.”

“Those boys alone can be a lot of work.” Jade laughs. “I thank Sims for Talia’s help on some days. I could very easily lose my mind.”

“Michiko has those days. Charlee is a big help too. I don’t know what I’d do without her.” Sage pauses. “We got some news Jade, about Charlee.”

“News?” Jade replies becoming anxious. She swallows hard as she tried to play dumb. “What kind of news?”

“We just found out from Sims Services that Charlee’s bio dad wasn’t Charles Pruitt. Charles raised Charlee as his own daughter without anybody ever knowing she wasn’t his.”

Feeling beads of sweat begin to form, “So who is her father then?” Jade asks, afraid to hear if Sage already knows about Wesley.

“We don’t know yet. Sims Services hasn’t disclosed that information.” Sage answers. “But we have a right to know. It’s only fair, don’t you think?”

Jade can feel a lump forming in her throat as she glances over to Wesley sitting in the arm chair. “Sage, there’s something I need to tell you.” Jade says pulling her sister away from the crowd of people.

“What? What is it Jade?” Sage asks curiously.

But before Jade has a chance to say another word, Aiden interrupts. “Hey girls, you haven’t seen Grandpa anywhere have you? We can’t find him.”

“What do you mean you can’t find him?” Jade asks. “When is the last time anyone saw him?” The family divide and begin their search for Elliot. “Grandpa? Grandpa?” Jade hollers as she makes her way upstairs.

Sage stays on the main floor checking each room carefully. She ventures down the long hallway checking first the garage and the bathroom. “Grandpa, you in here?” she says knocking on the doors. When she gets to his bedroom door she knocks before entering.”Grandpa?” she says pushing the door open. There she finds Elliot in tears. “Grandpa! What are you doing in here? Sage says noticing numerous boxes and papers strewn about the room.

“Grandpa, are you alright?” Sage asks as she approaches Elliot. “We were worried about you.”

“I was going through her stuff. I found this.” Elliot says handing Sage an envelope.

Sage removes the neatly folded paper from the envelope. As she opens it up her hands shake uncontrollably. She briefly reads the contents. Giving Elliot a half smile, “I think now is a good time to share this.” she tells him. Sage and Elliot emerge from the bedroom. “Grandpa found something he’d like to share with the family.” Sage announces. The family all find a seat and listen contently. Elliot wipes the tears from his eyes before pulling the envelope from his jacket pocket.

“I was going through Naomi’s boxes and I found this note.” Elliot begins to read……

Dear Elliot and family,

        I’m writing this letter to you, my family because I just arrived home from the doctor’s office with Elliot. I am going away. I will still be with you but I won’t know it. And you won’t know the real me because I am going away in my mind. I have been diagnosed with Al-Simmer’s Disease. I don’t know how much longer my mind has so I want to write this while still able. When you are in receipt of this letter I will no longer be here physically but I will forever be with each of you in spirit. When the soft breeze blows against you, it shall be my spirit passing by. Please don’t think of me with pity or sadness, instead smile and celebrate the moments we’ve shared together. And when all else fails, eat a cupcake! Surround yourself with the beautiful things that life has to offer. Life has a lot of grey and sadness sometimes so look for that rainbow and frame it. There is beauty in everything my darlings, sometimes you just have to look a little harder to see it.  Always remember how much I love you, each and every one of you.  And remember, family isn’t whose blood you carry, it’s who you love and who loves you back.  Elliot,  I was unbelievably lucky to spend so many years with the love of my life and my best friend. True love and soulmates do exist, we’re proof of that. It absolutely breaks my heart to have to say goodbye, but know I’m waiting for you at Heaven’s gates with our girls. 

                                                                                               With Love Forever,

                                                                                     Naomi – Grammie Pickles