~ 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  

 

~ Volume II ~ Chapter 14 ~ Episode 5 ~

“How can I go on without her Jade?” Elliot says. “A piece of me is missing. I’ll never again be blessed by her touch or the comfort of her warm embrace. I ‘ll never hear her contagious laugh or smell her fragrant scent. I’ll never be able to look into her eyes and tell her how much I love her. She was my soulmate, my best friend.”

“Grandpa, Grammie knew how much you loved her. You made sure of it. And she loved you just as much.” Jade tells Elliot as she reaches out to comfort him. “I want you to take things easy and rest. Wesley and I will take care of all the arrangements.”

***

Over the next several days  Jade and Wesley prepare for Naomi’s memorial service. Oliver and his children fly in from Windenburg as does Sage, Jayla and the girls. The Pickles family sadly gather together inside the local church.

“Hey, Sage?” Jade calls to her sister.

“Yeah?” Sage says turning around.

“Will you say a few words in Grammie’s memory today?” Jade asks. Sage thinks for a moment, contemplating. “I just don’t think I can do it.” Jade adds.

Nodding, “Sure.” Sage answers.

“Thanks.” Jade says hugging her sister tightly.

As Sage turns to walk away, Jade grabs her attention again. “Hey Sage.”

“Yeah.” she says turning around.

“I really appreciate Jayla hanging out at the house with the boys. I feel terrible that she’s missing out on the service.” Jade says.

“It’s no problem. She’s glad to help. Caring for the twins and Michiko will help keep her mind off things. Besides, Charlee is there helping out. Charlee is great when it comes to babies. Jay’s not much for these types of things anyways.”

Jade takes a seat before the family begins their eulogies. “I’m sorry about Grammie.” Benjamin tells his sister. “I heard dad tell mom that you found Grammie in her bed dead.” Jade breaks down into tears.

“I, I didn’t mean to make you cry again.” Ben says feeling badly.

“It’s okay bud.” Wesley replies. “This is a sad time for everybody.

Sage heads up to the microphone first. She taps the microphone letting the family know she’s ready to begin. They all find a seat. “One of the things Grammie enjoyed most was cooking. She took great pride in making delicious food to share with anybody who would eat it”

Sage glances down at her grandmother’s urn as she continues. “Grammie, you have been more to me than you could ever imagine. No matter the distance between us, you can look down upon me from the Heavens above and know that I accept the incredible honor of carrying on your traditions and love in all that I do. I love you Grammie Pickles.”

Sage replaces the microphone and quietly takes her seat. Next, Anika proceeds to the front. “When most people think of the words ‘mother-in-law’, a meddling, trouble-making, bitter old woman probably comes to mind. Not Naomi. Naomi was MY mother. She took me in as a teenager, not only into her home but into her open arms and heart and taught me how to become a mother myself. Naomi always looked for the silver lining in a grey storm cloud. She was the sweetest, kind, most gentle woman I knew. I’m sure gonna miss her. Rest in peace mom.”

Next Oliver decides to share some words. “Today we’re here to celebrate what my mother stood for. I love to remember my mother when she was full of life, before Al-Simmers barged in. I’ll never forget all the wonderful holidays, special parties and birthday celebrations we all shared with mom. She sure loved parties. Heck, she’s probably pissed she’s missing this one. Had she known this was gonna happen she probably would have prepared cupcakes.” Everybody laughs. “That’s the way my mother was, she always wanted to be around her family. Her family was most important to her.”

“Mom’s positive attitude and pure devotion proved it. We Pickles can get through anything. We’ll get through this too……..together. We may not have mom here physically but she’ll live in all of our hearts forever. I love you mom”

Lastly, Elliot gets up to speak. “A-hem” he clears his throat nervously, the microphone trembling in his hands. “Thank you for being here on this sorrowful day. Seventy-seven years ago I moved to Willow Creek and opened the door to the elementary school. That’s when I laid eyes on the most beautiful gal in the world. Those piercing blue eyes locked with mine, how my heart skipped a beat.” Elliot pauses as he composes himself.

“Now, that same heart is shattered. My soulmate, the love of my life is gone. Thank Sims for all of you.” Elliot gestures to his family in the pews. “I can see Naomi in the faces of my children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. You were all so important to her, even when her mind didn’t allow her to show it. She loved you dearly.” Elliot pauses again. He chuckles nervously. “It’s kinda funny. I was hoping to stand up here and share words that would exemplify how special a daughter, mother, grandmother, wife and friend Naomi was. But the only thing that comes to mind is how much I love her and how much I’m going to miss her. I love you Naomi Pickles. I always have, I always will.” With those final words Elliot begins to weep.

As the service come to and end, Talia says her final goodbye. “Bye great Grammie. I’ll never forget you. And I’ll know you’ll never forget me, you called me Talia.” she sobs.

The family begins to make their way out of the church to gather together back at Jade and Wesley’s for some food and company.

“Dad, those words were perfect and from the heart.” Oliver tells his father. “Ya ready to go?” he asks.

“Yeah. Give me a second alone please.”

Oliver abides by his father’s request. There Elliot sits alone in the church with an overwhelming sense of emptiness, and the crushing awareness of all that he has lost.

 

~ Volume II ~ Chapter 14 ~ Episode 4 ~

Thinking about what Elliot said, Wesley decides he needs to talk with Jade. Exiting the garage and entering the house, he finds Talia and Naomi in the dining room together. Naomi thumbs through the pages of her book. “Hey Tal, where’s mom?” he asks.

“Upstairs I think.” Talia replies.

“I’ve got to talk to her about something important. Would you mind hanging down here to keep great Grammie company for me?”

Talia nods. “No, I don’t mind.” she smiles.

Wesley scurries up the stairs, skipping two at a time as he goes. “Jade? Jade, you up here?” he says as he walks through the hallway.

“In the bedroom.” Jade answers.

“Jade hunny, we need to talk.” Wesley tells her.

“There’s really nothing to talk about.” Jade replies, placing a pair of shoes on the shoe rack.

“Jade, this isn’t just gonna go away if we ignore it. Please, come sit. Please.” Wesley says in almost a begging manner. Jade takes a seat beside him on the cushioned bench at the end of the bed. “Look, I’m in just as much shock about this whole Charlee thing as you are. The last thing I’d ever want to do is intentionally hurt Sage and Jayla.”

“That’s my sister Wesley, my sister. The thought of taking Charlee away breaks my heart. She loves that little girl like her own child.” Jade says trying to hold back tears.

“So what do you propose I do Jade. If you were me, what would you do?” Wesley questions his wife.

“I don’t know. I just don’t know.” Jade replies. “Let her stay in Windenburg where we can go visit?” Jade’s voice trails off.

“You seriously want me to just leave Charlee there, wondering why her own father doesn’t want her? No way. Absolutely no way.” Wesley stammers shaking his head from side to side. “My pops took off on me when I was a kid. Till this day I wonder what it was I did wrong to make him leave. I’m not doing that to Charlee. So, I basically have two options; go all in and become a father to my daughter, where she comes and lives here with us or call the whole thing off, keeping Charlee’s identity a secret from everybody and go on with life as if she doesn’t exist.”

Jade swallows hard. “That wouldn’t be very fair to either you or Charlee. I don’t know that I could live with myself knowing that I persuaded you to forget about Charlee for the sake of my own feelings, cuz I know that you wouldn’t forget. I know that you would live with that emptiness every single day.”

Wesley takes a hold of Jade’s hand. “No matter what we decide, somebody’s gonna get hurt Jade. There is no easy answer here. I just want to know that we stand united together in this decision.”

“As difficult as this journey may get, we travel the road together, right?” Jade says giving Wesley a little smile. “I’m sorry for blowing up at you before. I just wasn’t expecting to hear that news. It just sucks when no answer is the right answer.”

***

“Hey sunshine!” Jade says to Talia as she passes through the dining area after she and Wesley finish their conversation. “Whatcha want for dinner?”

“Grilled cheese!” Talia enthuses.

“Grilled cheese it is!” Jade says continuing into the kitchen to prepare dinner.

Wesley takes a seat next to Talia at the table. “Where’d great Grammie go?” he asks, noticing the empty chair.

“She said it was nap time.” Talia giggles. “And guess what? She remembered my name! She called me Talia!”

“She did, did she?”

Talia nods happily. “Yup! She said, ‘All this reading has made me tired. Talia, it’s time for Grammie’s nap.‘”

Jade places a plate full of grilled cheese sandwiches on the table. “Grandpa, dinner is ready.” she tells Elliot. “Wanna go wake up Grammie to eat?”

“Sure.” Elliot replies looking at Talia. “Make sure you don’t eat them all.” he jokes before heading off to the bedroom to wake Naomi. “Naomi dear. Dinner is ready.” he whispers as to not startle his wife.

Wesley, Jade and Talia each grab a plate and begin to eat. Liam and Lucas seem to sense when dinner hits the table and they instantly begin to fuss. Wesley and Jade have learned not to hesitate in starting their meal due to this very reason. “Mommy, great Grammie called me Talia today!” Talia tells her mother excitedly.

“It’s nice to hear some good news.” Jade replies. “I feel like our family has been plagued with negativity recently.”

Talia takes a bite of her grilled cheese sandwich. The cheese oozes out the sides. “My teacher says you have to be ‘opti-sim-istic’. It means thinking the best possible thing will happen and hoping for it, even if it’s not likely.” Jade smiles hearing Talia’s statement.

Elliot continues to wake Naomi. “C’mon darling, our cheese won’t be all melty.” He nudges her. “Get up dear.”

Seconds later, the family is startled by a great scream of anguish. “Grandpa?” Jade gasps before she and Wesley go running through the hallway to her grandparent’s bedroom.

“Grandpa! Grandpa!” Jade calls out. She flings open the bedroom door to find Elliot frozen in fear.

“She’s……..d..d..dead.” Elliot sputters. Jade guides Elliot a few steps away from the bed. “I tried to wake her. She wouldn’t get up.” Elliot’s body trembles as he bursts into tears.

“Grandpa, are you sure?” Jade questions as she reaches over feeling for a pulse on Naomi’s neck.

“Yeah, maybe she’s just in a deep sleep.” Wesley adds.

“No, she’s not breathing.” Elliot says hanging his head in sadness. “She’s gone. The love of my life is gone.”

Startled by not finding a pulse, Jade jumps back putting both hands over her mouth in horror. “No pulse.” Jade swallows hard.

“You mean it’s true, Naomi’s really dead?” Wesley says in shock as he can’t take his eyes off her body.

“What? Great Grammie’s dead?” Talia says entering the room, her body language immediately showing her sadness. She looks over to the lifeless body lying there. “But she was better. She called me Talia.” Talia cries. Wesley places his hands on her shoulders trying to comfort her.

Jade and Elliot approach the bed where Naomi’s empty shell lay. Tears fall from their eyes as they mourn the loss of the most remarkable woman to ever touch their lives. “I guess it was her time to go.”

“And she went peacefully in her sleep.”

Rest In Peace Naomi Pickles 12/12/14-6/24/16

 

~ Volume II ~ Chapter 14 ~ Episode 3 ~

“NOOOOOOOO! This can’t be happening!” Sage shouts with clenched fists from behind her computer screen, anger replacing her immediate sense of sadness and fear. The thought of Charlee having a living relative, a biological father for that matter is simply overwhelming.

Hearing the commotion, Jayla rushes through the office door. “Sage, are you okay? What is it? What’s wrong?”

“It’s this darn foster care system!” Sage replies gritting her teeth. “They find the perfect home for these children and then they have to go messing everything up!”

“What do you mean?” Jayla asks becoming concerned. “What are you talking about?”

“What I mean is next of kin popping up out of nowhere!” Sage answers as she gets up from her chair. She circles around the front of the desk to where Jayla is standing. “It’s Charlee’s biological father Jay, he’s alive! Apparently Charles Pruitt was not her real father. He raised Charlee as his own once Charlee’s mom died after childbirth.”

“What? You’ve got to be kidding me!” Jayla replies, completely floored.

“How is it Sims Services didn’t know about this sooner?” Jayla stammers.

Sage shrugs her shoulders. “I dunno but from what this social worker was tellin’ me, if this bio dad wants Charlee, he has the rights to her.” Sage pauses. “What are we gonna do Jay? Charlee doesn’t even know this guy. He could be some crazed lunatic!”

“Sage, calm down.” Jayla pleads. “Sims Services is all for the protection of the children. They’re not just gonna give her to some crazy man off the streets without checking into things. They’ll make sure that he has a stable home and good job with the means to support her. We just have to take deep breaths and try to remain calm.” Jayla tries to get Sage to relax a bit as to not let her anxiety get the best of her.

“Besides, we don’t even know if this guy will want Charlee. Maybe he’s already known about her for all these years. Maybe he doesn’t want a kid hanging around.” Jayla adds.

Sage stares with her head hung low. “You think maybe he’ll just give her to us, like that? Just sign the adoption papers without question?”

“I can’t say for certain what will happen either way. What I do know is our focus has to remain what is best for Charlee. And right now I think pursuing her adoption is.”

Sage gives Jayla a half smile feeling a glimmer of hope. “I just don’t know what I would do if we lost her.”

Charlee quickly swings open the office door and scoots into the room. “Lost who?” she asks curiously.

Sage turns and looks at the brown haired, blue eyed child smiling up at her. “Uh….nobody sweetie.” she says giving Charlee a kiss on the cheek. “Nobody is going anywhere.”

***

Elliot enters the garage to find Wesley swinging his hammer forcefully through the air.

“Whoa, whoa, whoa….what are ya doin’?” he asks. “You’re whacking that piece of wood like it’s killed your last llama!”

“What’s going on Wesley?” Elliot asks.

Wesley places the hammer down on the workbench. “Ugh, Elliot.” he moans. “Did ya ever do something that you wish you had never done?”

“Hey, who squealed about the time Naomi and I went skinny dippin’ in a lake full of electric eels!” Elliot chuckles.

“Elliot, I’m not joking.” Wesley says remaining serious, not even cracking a smile.

“Neither am I.” Elliot replies raising and lowering his eyebrows rapidly and grinning.

“This is something that won’t only affect me and Jade, but others as well.  I was stupid for even pushing forward with the idea. Now our life is a mess.”

“Care to fill an old man in Wesley? I might not have all the answers but I do have some life experience under these belt notches of mine. I may be able to help.” Elliot says. Sighing, Wesley opens up about the situation at hand.

“Ya know how I started the whole search for my daughter , right?” Wesley begins. Elliot nods as he listens. “Well, as it turn out….we’ve all already met her. We’ve ALL already met her.” Elliot looks to Wesley strangely. “Elliot,  Charlee, the little girl that Sage and Jayla are currently fostering and planning to adopt. Yeah well, she’s my daughter. She’s my own flesh and blood.”

“Oh boy.” Elliot replies.

“Oh boy is right. So now Jade is up in arms because she can’t face the thought of taking Charlee from her sister.” Wesley continues working on his project scuffing the wood with a sanding block. “I really don’t know what to do. I understand where Jade is coming from but that’s my child Elliot. I feel like I’m stuck between a rock and a hard place, damned if I do, damned if I don’t. Jade hasn’t spoken to me since we found out about Charlee. Who knew life could be so complicated?”

“I’ll tell you one thing, silence is a woman’s loudest cry. You need to get in there and talk to your wife. Even if she doesn’t respond, she’ll listen. But first, you need to decide in your heart what you want. And I’m pretty certain you already know.”

 

 

 

 

~ Volume II ~ Chapter 14 ~ Episode 2 ~

After receiving the news from the Maxis Private Investigators Agency that his daughter has been found, Wesley arranges to meet with Emmett Brunner to get further details. -DING DONG- The doorbell chimes. “He’s here! The private investigator is here!” Jade enthuses. She hurries to the door greeting the unfamiliar face. “Please come in.” she says.

“Mr. Brunner.” Wesley grins as he shakes Emmett’s hand. “This is my wife Jade.” he introduces the two.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you.” Jade smiles. She gestures to the living room. “Shall we sit?” Jade and Wesley sit together on one sofa while Emmett sits on the other.

“So, you really found her?” Wesley asks, unable to contain himself.

“I did.” Emmett grins. “I found your daughter.”

“That is sim-tastic!” Wesley beams. “I just can’t believe this!”

“This is so exciting!” Jade adds. “I never imagined she’d be found so quickly.”

“Mr. Brunner, what have you discovered about her? Does she live close? Does she have other siblings? What does she look like? Does she look like me?” Wesley asks Emmett an abundance of questions.

“Mr. Simeon, I’ll have you know it took a little digging on my part as your daughter doesn’t have your last name.”

“Yes, but like I had told you in our initial interview, her mother’s last name is Cotton. Didn’t that information help?” Wesley asks.

“Not so much.” Emmett says clearing his throat. “You see Mr. Simeon, your daughter has been given another gentlemen’s last name.” Emmett tells Wesley.

“That just means your ex probably got married.” Jade says. “That’s not necessarily a bad thing.”

“Mr. Brunner, what is his daughter’s name anyway?” Jade questions smiling.

“Charlee Pruitt.” Emmett replies.

Jade’s smile quickly fades. “Wait, what?” she says putting her hand to her mouth in disbelief, sure she must have heard wrong.

“Charlee Pruitt.” Emmett repeats. “Mr. Simeon, I’m sorry to say, I do have some devastating news to inform you of.” he continues.

Wesley interrupts before Emmett can continue. “Charlee Pruitt? There must be some mistake.” he says shaking his head.

“There’s no mistake Mr. Simeon. Charlee is actually in a foster care in a town called Windenburg. Your ex, Charleen Cotton, passed away shortly after giving birth to Charlee. The man she was seeing, Charles Pruitt, had raised your daughter as his own until he recently burned to death in a fire leaving Charlee an orphan. The Department of Sims Services has been searching for any living relatives, but unbeknownst to them, they were under the impression that Charles was her biological father.”

“I think I’m gonna be sick.” Jade says feeling nauseous.

“This is actually great news for you Mr. Simeon. With Charlee in foster care, this makes it exceptionally easy for you to gain custody of her. You’ll have your daughter here under your own roof in no time.” Emmett says. Not knowing how to respond, Wesley scratches the back of his head feeling completely uneasy.

Sensing their odd behavior, “Am I missing something here?” Emmett questions the couple.

“I know Charlee. I’ve met her.” Wesley replies. “My sister-in-law is set to be adopting her. She’s been fostering Charlee since the death of Mr. Pruitt.” Emmett is taken back by what he hears.

“How do we go and take away my sister’s daughter?” Jade asks becoming upset. “How do we go and tell Sage we’re taking Charlee from her?”

“I don’t know.” Wesley replies becoming flustered with emotion. “What do I do, just forget that Charlee’s my daughter?”

“All I know is I can’t rip away my sister’s kid!” Jade says storming off out of the room.

“What are you going to do?” Emmett asks Wesley.

Wesley paces the room anxiously. “I dunno.” he says before taking a seat next to Emmett. “What if we don’t do anything. Not just yet anyway. I need time.”

“Uhhhh.” Emmett groans. “There’s only one little problem.”

“I’ve already contacted Sims Services in Windenburg. They know you exist Mr. Simeon. They know Charlee has a living relative.”

***

~Windenburg~

“He he he.” Charlee giggles as she and Sage watch cartoons together. “Wanna watch the Superkids movie?” she asks Sage.

“I’ve seen that movie like a dozen times.” Sage answers. “But if you wanna put it on you can.” she winks. Charlee spins on her bean bag chair and stares up at the big screen continuing to watch her show.

“Hey Sage, you haven’t heard from Ms. Honeycutt have you?” Jayla asks as she does downward dog on her yoga mat.

“No, why?”

“She was supposed to be in touch two days ago about finalizing Charlee’s adoption.” Jayla replies. “I’m just wondering why we haven’t heard from her yet.”

“I’m not sure.” Sage answers. “I’ll go try giving her a call now.” Sage sits at her desk in the office and dials the number for the Department of Sims Services, pressing the numbers for Ms. Honeycutt’s  direct extension.

“Department of Sims Services.” a voice answers.

“Hello? Ms. Honeycutt?” Sage says, not sure she’s reached the correct extension.

“No, I’m sorry. This is Mrs. Munch. Ms. Honeycutt had a family emergency to tend to. I’m taking over her case load in the mean time. Is there something I can help you with?”

“My name is Sage Pickles. I’ve been working with Ms. Honeycutt for quite some time now. We’re in the end stages of finalizing my foster daughter’s adoption. Is that something you can check into for me?” Sage asks.

“Absolutely!” Mrs. Munch replies. “You said Pickles, correct?”

“Yes.”

Mrs. Munch fumbles through a file that sits upon her desk. “I actually have your file sitting right here Mrs. Pickles. It seems as though a problem has surfaced.”

“A problem? What kind of problem?” Sage asks becoming worried. “Ms. Honeycutt never mentioned any kind of problem.”

“It looks like a next of kin has emerged.”

“Next of kin? What do you mean next of kin?” Sage asks becoming angry. “Who? Who is this next of kin?”

“A biological father.” Mrs. Munch reveals.

“Biological father? That’s impossible! Charlee’s father burned to death in a fire!” Sage replies getting loud, her emotions taking over.

“Mrs. Pickles, new information shows that Charles Pruitt was not Charlee’s biological father. If in fact this information proves to be true, the biological father has legal rights and will have the opportunity to be granted custody of Charlee. As for now, the adoption process has been put on hold.” Unable to fathom what she’s hearing, Sage drops the phone and breaks down into tears.

“Mrs. Pickles? Mrs. Pickles?”

 

~ Volume II ~ Chapter 14 ~ Episode 1 ~

One morning as Wesley Simeon heads out to check the mail his phone rings. -RING RING- RING-RING- He pulls the phone from the pocket of his khaki pants.

Not recognizing the phone number that comes up on the called ID, Wesley chooses to answer the phone anyway. “Hello?” he says hesitantly.

“Can I speak to Wesley Simeon please?” the man’s voice on the other end asks.

“Speaking.” Wesley replies.

“Mr. Simeon, this is Emmett Brunner. I’m with the Maxis Private Investigators Agency. I received your message. It’s my understanding that you’d like help in locating your biological daughter, is that correct?”

“Yes. That’s correct.” Wesley answers.

“Great. Would you be able to come into my office this afternoon? Say, one o’clock?”

“One o’clock today? You got it!” Wesley replies. “Is there anything I need to bring with me?” he asks.

“Bring anything that could help assist me in my search. I’ll see you soon Mr. Simeon.”

***

Wesley arrives at the M.P.I.A. (Maxis Private Investigators Agency) a few minutes before one. The secretary shows him to Mr. Brunner’s office. She knocks on the wooden oak door before entering. “Mr. Brunner, your one o’clock appointment is here.” she announces.

“Thank you Ms. Stanton.” Emmett Brunner responds.

“Mr. Brunner I presume?” Wesley says as he approaches the mans ‘s desk. “I’m Wesley Simeon. It’s nice to meet you.”

“Likewise.” Emmett replies waving.

“Please, have a seat.” Mr. Brunner gestures to the set of armchairs behind Wesley. “So tell me Mr. Simeon, what is it you know about your daughter?”

“Well….” Wesley begins. “I know that she’s a girl.” he chuckles, embarrassed he doesn’t have much more infomation than that.

Mr. Brunner jots down a few notes. “How about her name? What is your daughter’s name?” he asks Wesley.

“I feel kinda silly answering this, but I don’t know her name.” Wesley says feeling mortified.

“So I take it you don’t have a last known address either?” Emmett questions.

Wesley shakes his head from side to side. “Please sir, don’t tell me you can’t help me.” he says becoming worried.

“Now wait a second, I didn’t say I couldn’t help you.” Emmett grins as he hold his hands in the air in front of him. “I’m Emmett P. Brunner, M.P.I.A.’s finest private eye.”

“So there’s still hope? You think you can find my girl?” Wesley asks excitedly.

“I’m not saying it’ll be easy, but it’s doable.” Mr. Brunner replies. “Now tell me Mr. Simeon, tell me everything you can. How did you and Ms. Cotton meet? ”

Wesley begins the story of how he and his ex met. “We met at a music festival one fall day. She was a musician, a master at the piano. And boy could she play.” Wesley remembers back almost hearing the euphonious sound in his ears. “We went our own ways after a while, but not before she would wind up pregnant. I was told she wasn’t keeping the baby but I guess she changed her mind. It was pretty evident she didn’t want me part of the whole process.” Wesley sighs. “I wasn’t mature enough to know what I was missing out on, not until I saw it first hand when I became a father of twin boys years later. So I began my search on the computer. All I could find was the birth announcement, which is how I know I have a daughter. As for anything else, I came up empty handed. That’s why I contacted you. That’s why I’m here Mr. Brunner, I need help from the professionals. I’m determined to be a part of my daughter’s life. She deserves to know her father and siblings. It’s only right.”

“I don’t have much to go on Mr. Simeon, but I feel confident with what I do have that I’ll be able to begin somewhere. I’ll get started on this search right away. I’ll be in touch if anything should turn up.” Emmett tells Wesley.

“Thank you Mr. Brunner.” Wesley says as he stands.

-Knock Knock- “Excuse me Mr. Brunner.” the secretary says as she enters the office. “Your next appointment is here.”

“Thank you Ms.Stanton. Go ahead and show them in. Mr. Simeon, we’ll talk soon.”

***

A full week goes by. One morning Jade prepares breakfast for the family. “Mommy, whatcha makin’?” Talia asks.

“Spinach frittatas.” Jade tells her daughter.

“Does that have spinach in it?” Talia wonders.

Jade nods. “Yup, fresh from grammie’s garden. Spinach is good for you. It’ll make you grow big and strong.” Talia makes an unpleasant face, clearly not impressed.

The family gather for breakfast. “Great grammie, where are your glasses?” Talia asks Naomi.

Elliot tries to gesture for Talia not to bring up their non-existence. “She’s misplaced her glasses is all.  I’m sure they’ll turn up somewhere.” Elliot says.

Naomi quickly becomes upset. “Do you have my glasses? You’re hiding them, aren’t you???”

Talia smiles at Naomi remembering the conversation she had with her mother about her great grandmother’s illness. “I don’t need glasses. My doctor says I have the eyesight of a rabbit!”

“A rabbit huh?” Elliot replies.

Talia nods. “Uh-huh. You’ve never seen a rabbit wearing glasses have ya?” she giggles in turn making Elliot laugh too.

Quickly Jade gets off the eyeglass subject as to not agitate Naomi any further. The family continue their breakfast conversing about several other topics. Once finished with their meal, Jade notices Naomi’s plate remains untouched. “Grammie, aren’t you hungry? You haven’t taken not one bite.” Naomi looks to Jade strangely.

“Young lady, this is my meal. Don’t you touch it.” Naomi replies to Jade sternly, pulling her plate close. “People are always taking my food.”

“Grammie, nobody takes your food.” Jade responds. “I promise I’ll leave your food right there until you’re good and finished with it.”

Jade clears the empty plates from the table and places the dirty dishes into the dishwasher. “Now we apparently hold her food hostage?” she says to Wesley chuckling as she places the last plate on the dishwasher rack.

“Gotta take this whole Al-Simmers thing with a grain of salt.” Wesley replies. Jade peers into the dining room to check on her grandmother. There sits Naomi’s untouched breakfast with no sign of Naomi.

Grabbing the plate, Jade puts it in the refrigerator. “Guess she’s not hungry this morning.” Jade says shrugging.

-RING RING-RING RING- Wesley’s phone begins to ring. “It’s M.P.I.A.!” he says excitedly.

“M.P.I. what?” Jade asks confused.

“The investigation agency! Maybe they have some information about little Simeon!” he grins as he picks up the phone. “Hello?” Wesley answers.

“Hello, Mr. Simeon. This is Emmett Brunner from the Maxis Private Investigators Agency. I have good news Wesley, I’ve located your daughter.”

 

 

 

~ Volume II ~ Chapter 13 ~ Episode 13 ~

Soon after Bristol’s blood is collected, Dr. Greer begins the lab work. She starts by first testing for infections caused by bacteria, fungi or parasites. Then the doctor checks to see if Bristol’s simmune system is functioning properly by testing for viral infections and to see if her simmune system has reacted to a recent virus. Lastly, Bristol’s blood count is tested and her blood cell function is analyzed. Then Dr. Greer waits.

Knowing it is going to be a considerable amount of time before she has any answers, Dr. Greer seeks out the Pickles in the waiting area. Aiden and Anika rise anxiously from their seats. “I’m sorry, no news yet.” the doctor reveals. “Unfortunately, it’s gonna be a while.” Aiden and Anika both sigh and sit back down. “I’ll let you know as soon as I get the results.”

Three hours go by, Bristol has long since fallen asleep on the bench next to Anika. “How much longer?” Anika wonders.

Aiden shrugs as he yawns. “I dunno, but these things take time.” He slouches in his seat and closes his eyes. Within moments Aiden too is sleeping.

Anika looks at the clock, “Two-thirty!” she says as she stretches, kicking off her shoes. She too decides a little shut-eye doesn’t sound so bad right about now. She curls up in a ball beside Bristol to catch a few Z’s.

Come five o’clock a.m, the analysis is finally complete. Dr. Greer heads to the lab to read the results. The doctor is astounded at what she finds.

The waiting room brightens as the sun begins to rise. “I can’t take any more of this waiting!” Anika says to Aiden impatiently. “We’ve been here all night. We should have results by now. Somethings wrong, I just know it.” Anika begins to panic.

“Anika hunny, relax. Lab work takes time. Dr. Greer said she’d let us know as soon as she got the results. Be patient, just a little longer.” Aiden tries to calm his wife. “Here, let’s watch some t.v.” He grabs the remote and powers on the television. As they’re watching the morning news, Reeva Johnson, the pregnant woman from the day before enters the waiting area.

“Wow, still no baby?” Anika says making conversation.

“Baby? Ha! I’ve got four babies in here.” the woman pats her stomach.

“Quadruplets?” Anika says shocked. “Wow, that’s amazing. Four babies….they’ll sure keep you on your toes.”

“Oh I ain’t keepin’ em. These rascals are bein’ put up for adoption.” the woman replies.

“Oh! Me and my big mouth!” Anika replies feeling awkward. “I shouldn’t have just assumed. I apologize, Miss…”

“Reeva, my name’s Reeva. Look, truth is, pregnancy wasn’t planned. It was more of a one night kinda thing. Babies father ain’t in the picture. Heck, he ain’t even know I pregnant! I ain’t got the kinda life to be bringin’ up no four babies. I love em’ and all but they’ll be better off with some other momma.”

Reeva stands up and stretches out her back. “I just wish they’d get born so I can get back to my life. These past few months ain’t been nothin’ but rough. Been livin’ on what little savings I had. Can’t work, can’t sleep, can barely walk. Oh well, it’ll all be over soon nuff’, right?”

Just then Aiden’s phone rings. “Hello? Oh hey Hunter. Mom and I are still at the hospital with Bristol. Brook and Ben are at Uncle Kade’s with Kinley.” Aiden pauses as he listens. “Sure, that sounds good. I’ll see you shortly.”

“What was that about?” Anika asks.

“That was Hunter, he’s home. He said I can go grab the kids from Kade’s and he’ll watch them for us until we’re finished. So I’ll come back after I drop them off at home, okay?” Anika nods. Aiden gives his wife a kiss and kisses Bristol on the top of her head. “I’ll be back soon kiddo.” he tells her.

“She your only kid?” Reeva asks as she arches her back.

“Bristol? Oh no. I have six.”

“Six?! You must be damn near crazy.”

Anika laughs. “Three of them are triplets actually.” she smiles. “Trust me when I tell you, I know what you’re going through.” Just then, a panicked expression comes over Reeva’s face. “Reeva? Are you okay?” Anika asks.

“No, my water just broke!” Reeva cries out.

“Don’t panic.” Anika replies trying to remain calm. “Bristol, stay right here. Reeva, I’m gonna go get Dr. Greer.” Anika rushes through the hallways of the hospital. “Dr. Greer!” she calls out when she spots the doctor. “Come quick, it’s Reeva, she’s having the babies!”

Quickly, the doctor rushes to the laboring mother’s aid. She escorts her to the birthing room just down the corridor. “I feel another one!” Reeva says as another strong contraction approaches.

“Just breathe Reeva, just like we’ve practiced.” Dr. Greer tells her.

“I don’t know if I can do this!” Reeva continues to panic.

“Reeva, you’re doing fine. Deep breath in, and exhale.” the doctor tells her. Reeva does as instructed.

“Reeva, do you still want to deliver the babies in the birthing tub like we talked about?” the doctor asks. Reeva nods. “Alright, then go ahead and disrobe, get yourself seated nice and comfortable and then I’ll begin filling the tub with warm water.” the doctor tells her.

After climbing into the tub, the doctor fills it with water. “It almost time to push.” Dr. Greer reveals.

After a few more contractions, the doctor checks Reeva’s cervix one more time. “Ten centimeters, it’s baby time!” Dr. Greer announces. Reeva begins to push with all her might. “I see a head. Push Reeva push.” As the first baby emerges, Reeva reaches down catching the infant from her own body. She lifts the baby from the water. “It’s a girl.”

The doctor quickly wraps the tiny infant in a towel and prepares to deliver baby number two, three and four.

***

Once Reeva’s babies are delivered, Dr. Greer settles them into the neonatal simtensive care unit where they’ll spend the next few weeks. Anika and Bristol peer through the nursery window at the four tiny baby girls.

After each of the babies are hooked up to monitors and IV’s, Dr. Greer finally sits down with Anika to divulge Bristol’s bloodwork results. “Mrs. Pickles, I apologize about the wait.” the doctor begins. “After receiving Bristol’s results I wanted to double check a few things.”

“Tell me. Tell me Dr. Greer. Did the blood-work reveal any information as to what is wrong with Bristol and why she’s sick?” Anika asks, her hands becoming sweaty.

“Well,” Dr. Greer begins. “It did. When we checked Bristol’s white blood cell count, it came back low, very low to be honest. So I ran the test again to be sure it was accurate.”

Anika swallows hard. “White blood cells, those fight infection, right?”

The doctor nods. “That’s right.” she says pausing before continuing. “Mrs. Pickles, I am so sorry. The tests reveal that Bristol has stage four Simphoma.”

“No! It can’t be!” Anika cries out.

“But there’s no cure!” Anika says as she begins to cry.

“Correct, there is no cure. However, there is an experimental treatment that we could try. But there are no guarantees Mrs. Pickles.”

“Experimental?” Anika sobs. “Are there risks or side effects?” she questions through the tears. Her mind a whirlwind of thoughts.

“Fatigue, nausea and vomiting, loss of appetite, hair loss. Those are the most common.”

Anika sighs deeply.

“Mrs. Pickles, Bristol would be required to reside here at the hospital during treatment. She’ll have infusions three times a week.”

“Reside here? As in live here?” Anika confirms.

Dr. Greer nods. “Yes. She’ll have to be monitored continuously. It’s very crucial to the treatment.”

“And without treatment? What’s her prognosis?”

“Bristol will die Mrs. Pickles. She may have a year, slightly less. I’m very sorry.”

***

Anika takes Bristol home to discuss their daughter’s results with Aiden. “Oh thank Sims, you’re home.” Aiden says as the girls walk through the door. “I was just getting ready to head back to Magnolia Valley.”

“So, what’d the doctor say? Did the blood-work show anything abnormal?” Aiden asks.

Anika frowns, her heart breaking in two. “Aiden, it’s not good news.”

“Don’t tell me. Don’t even say it Anika. Please.” Aiden begs, already feeling the results radiate through his body.

Anika swallows hard. “Aiden, you were right. This whole time, you knew. I shoulda’ told the doctors about your history. Maybe then they could have done something sooner. I just didn’t want it to be true.” Aiden stares blankly at his wife as she sobs. “It’s stage four Aiden. They only have an experimental treatment. And Dr. Greer said no guarantees. Bristol will have to stay at the hospital. She’ll have to live there Aiden!”

“I no want to live there.” Bristol says sadly. “I live home.”

Seeing his daughter in that state nearly rips Aiden’s heart from his chest. The memories of his own battle with Simphoma come flooding back. “I don’t know if I can do this again Anika. How are we gonna get through this? How?”

~ Volume II ~ Chapter 13 ~ Episode 12 ~

After dropping Brooklyn and Benjamin off with Kinley, Anika and Aiden arrive at the Magnolia Valley Medical Center with sick little Bristol in tow. “Quick, let’s get her inside.” Anika says nervously.

“Bristol honey, we’re here at the doctors.” Aiden tells his daughter quietly as he wakes her from the back seat of the car.

“I not feel good.” Bristol replies in a whiny tone, her skin clammy to the touch. Aiden helps her from the car and they enter the front doors of the medical center.

The nurse working the front desk greets them as they enter. “I’m Nurse Stella, how can I help you?” she asks.

“We’ve already spoken with Dr. Greer, she advised us to come in. It’s my daughter, she’s sick again.” Anika responds.

“Oh right, I remember you guys.” Nurse Stella replies. She enters some information into the computer that sits before her on the desk. “There haven’t been any medical changes since you were here last, have there?” the nurse questions.

“Ut-uh.” Anika replies shaking her head from side to side.

Aiden thinks about how Anika left out vital information regarding his own childhood illness from Bristol’s medical records. “Well actually……” Aiden begins, capturing the nurses undivided attention.

Before he continues he glances at his wife who is giving him a death glare.

“Mr. Pickles, you were saying?” the nurse questions.

Pausing before continuing, “It, it was nothing important.” Aiden replies with a sigh.

“Very well then. I’ll let the doctor know you’re here.”

A few hours pass before the doctor enters the waiting room. “Mr. and Mrs. Pickles, hello.” she says shaking both their hands. “Sorry about the wait. It’s been a bit hectic around here today. And Miss Bristol, how are you feeling?”

“Not good.” the child replies feeling nauseated.

“Follow me. I’ll take you back to an exam room.” Dr. Greer waves for the family to follow. As they enter the set of double doors, a pregnant patient waddles up the hallway.

“Dr. Greer! Dr. Greer! I think it’s time….the babies are coming!” the woman says in a panicked tone.

“Let me just have a little feel here.” Dr. Greer replies as she places her hands on the big rounded belly.

“Those are contractions you’re feeling.” the doctor tells her patient as she maneuvers her hands over several areas of the woman’s abdomen.

“Wonder how many babies she’s got in there?” Aiden whispers to Anika. “You had three and you weren’t ever THAT big!” he chuckles.

After finishing her non-invasive exam, “Sorry to tell you this Reeva, but you still have a while to go yet.”

“Why don’t you go back to your room and rest. I’ll send the nurse in with some ice chips.”

“Ice chips? I don’t want ice chips!” the woman says becoming worked up. “I want these babies out of me is what I want! Nine months has been long enough!”

“I’m sorry.” Dr. Greer apologizes to Anika and Aiden. “You’ll have to excuse me for a moment while I get Ms.Johnson back to her room. Why don’t you folks go ahead into room one.” She points to the room with the numeral one on the door. “I’ll be right back.” Anika sits on the bed with Bristol by her side. Aiden paces the room unsure of what to do with the emotions he’s feeling overwhelmed with. Moments later the door opens and the doctor enters. “Sorry about that.” she says. “So, after reviewing Bristol’s medical records I think our next best option is to do a comprehensive metabolic panel.”

“Simlish please!” Aiden says becoming frustrated. “What does all of that mean?”

“Blood-work, right?” Anika questions.

Hearing the word ‘blood-work’ makes Bristol panic. “No blood-work.” she says as she cringes.

“Bristol sweetie, checking your blood can tell us what exactly could be causing you to be sick.” Dr. Greer explains.

“No blood-work!” Bristol cries out again, this time she slips under her mother’s arm for comfort.

Aiden pulls the doctor aside. “What exactly are you looking for?” he asks.

“Well, the comprehensive metabolic panel will give us information on Bristol’s kidneys and liver, it’ll test her blood sugar and blood proteins and also her electrolytes.” Dr. Greer replies.

“I see.” Aiden replies. He fidgets around with his fingers anxiously.

“Is there something wrong Mr. Pickles?” the doctor asks.

Pausing before answering, Aiden swallows hard. He looks up at his wife and sick child snuggled together on the bed. “We should have told you this sooner.” he begins. “When I was a teenager I was diagnosed with stage four Simphoma. I was days away from death Dr. Greer. If it weren’t for my father rushing home with a miracle elixir, I wouldn’t be standing here today. I need you to test Bristol. I need you to test her blood count to see if she has the same intrusive disease. Please doctor. I need to know.”

Dr. Greer nods her head. “I’ll go ahead and order that a complete blood count be done as well. The nurse will be in momentarily for the blood draw.”

***

“Well hi Bristol.” the nurse says upon entering the room. “I saw you out in the waiting room, remember? I’m Nurse Stella.”

“My belly hurt.” Bristol replies holding her stomach. “No blood.” she says.

“We’re gonna make this quick and easy.” the nurse tells her. “Why don’t you come have a seat over in this chair over here.” Stella says pointing to a chair in the corner of the room. “Mom, dad, I’m gonna have you stay right where you are.” she gestures for Anika and Aiden to stay put.

“My belly hurt.” Bristol repeats as she climbs in the chair.

“I know it does.” Nurse Stella sympathizes with Bristol. “Hopefully after we’re through with these tests we’ll know why your belly has been hurting and why you haven’t been feeling well.” The nurse gathers her needle and tubes and slips on a pair of latex gloves. “Now Bristol, I want you to close your eyes and think about your favorite ice cream flavor.”

“Nilla!” Bristol shouts out with her eyes still shut.

“Yum, vanilla. That’s one of my favorites too.” the nurse replies as she swabs Bristol’s arm with an alcohol wipe. Bristol flinches. “It’s just a cold wipe sweetie.” Nurse Stella assures her. “Do you like hot fudge or marshmallow on your ice cream?” the nurse continues as she prepares to insert the needle into Bristol’s arm.

“Prinkles!” Bristol grins, her eyes still closed.

“Oohhh, yummy sprinkles.” the nurse says locating the perfect vein. “Bristol,  you’re gonna feel a little poke now, but that’s it. Nothing more.” The nurse inserts the needle into the child’s arm.

“Ouch!” Bristol cries out.

“That’s the worst of it Bristol, you’re doing good. Now keep your eyes closed and tell me, do you like chocolate sprinkles or rainbow sprinkles?”

“Brainbow!” Bristol answers.

“Me too.” the nurse giggles. She secures her last test tube of blood and withdraws the needle from Bristol’s arm. “That’s it, we’re done! You did a terrific job Bristol.”

“All done?” Bristol questions popping her eyes open.

The nurse nods. “Yup, all done.” she smiles. Turning to Aiden and Anika, “I’ll get these to Dr. Greer so she can get them right to the lab. You’re more than welcome to wait upstairs in the waiting area until we get the results.”