101. Pretty in pink

I’m finally back. Back with a chapter that doesn’t contain big dramas, besides the little everyday annoyances that help shape a personality and a life. Isn’t that what we all long to be reminded of in unpredictable times like the current ones?
As the header image promises, it’s finally time for Jade and Marcus’ wedding.

******

Morning in Brindleton Bay

An otherwise quiet morning is disturbed by some loud noises.

Fie hisses and growls angrily and lashes out at Futte, who is standing threateningly bent over her to teach her a lesson.

A moment later, both cats roll around in a heated fight.

Nearby, Fabio and Izumi sit at the dining table. They don’t take care of the cats’ disagreements. It’s just a sibling squabble and it usually ends as quickly as it started.

“Good morning Fabio. I have some sliders for you in the fridge,” Izumi says with a wink.

It’s a secret between mother and son, as Rasmus is a strict vegetarian and doesn’t like food that contains meat.

As predicted, the cats gradually go their separate ways. No major injuries have been sustained apart from some minor scratches.

Fabio goes to the fridge to get his breakfast. Izumi listens carefully for any sounds she should respond to, but it doesn’t seem like there’s anything that requires her intervention.

Rasmus has just returned from a short run and he is busy with a practical task as usual. You can’t accuse him of being lazy.

Both babies are sleeping in their cribs. What a blessed morning.

Izumi gets up to do the dishes.

Fabio looks with satisfaction at the little treats in front of him. It’s so rare that he’s allowed to eat meat after he and his mother moved in with Rasmus.

He stops chewing, feeling guilty, when Rasmus enters the room. As if he’s been caught with his fingers in the cookie jar.

He really admires Rasmus and will do anything to make him happy, except he can’t really incorporate his ideas about a vegetarian lifestyle.

“Good morning Izumi. I’m making breakfast. Is there anything you would prefer me to make for you?” Rasmus asks kindly.

“I just ate some leftovers, so make whatever you prefer,” she replies, blushing slightly.

It goes without saying whether it’s Fabio and her shared secret that makes her blush or the sight of her truly handsome husband. We’ll leave that unsaid.

Rasmus starts making fried eggs with his experienced hand.

Suddenly he stops what he is doing when he spots Fabio.

“What are you eating, Fabio?” he asks suspiciously.

“I made him a few sliders. Let him enjoy his food, Rasmus. It almost never happens and there’s no reason to be so principled that you can never deviate a little, right?” Izumi asks.

Rasmus looks at her in shock, unable to find an answer.

He therefore immediately returns his attention to the fried eggs on the frying pan and adds a sprinkle of salt.

“I hope you enjoyed the food, Fabio?” Izumi says.

“Yes, thank you Mom. They were amazing!” replies Fabio with noticeable enthusiasm.

Fabio quickly leaves the table. He prefers to disappear from sight before Rasmus finds the use of his voice again and feels called to comment on the sinful sliders.

“Hey Fabio, it looks like you forgot something, right?” asks Izumi.

He grabs his used plate and walks towards the kitchen sink, watching Rasmus flip his buttered toast in the air. He seems in a good mood despite what he has just witnessed.

“Have you noticed how quiet it is this morning?” Izumi asks with a smile.

“Yes, it’s a nice start to a busy day.” Rasmus replies kindly.

“Did you make an appointment with the babysitting agency?” Izumi asks.

“Yes, they’ll send someone well in advance before we leave,” he answers as he sits down.

Fabio looks at his mother with a worried gaze, while Rasmus begins to eat without flinching.

“The twins will be fine, Fabio. They’ve gotten older and easier to take care of,” Izumi says with a smile.
She is touched by Fabio’s care for his younger siblings, despite him often expressing his irritation at how much attention they steal.

“So you are going on a sleepover to night Fabio. Are you excited?” Rasmus asks.

“I think so,” Fabio answers a little hesitantly.

“It’ll be fine, you’ll have fun,” Rasmus answers calmly.

“Well, it’s time for your bath Fabio, off you go,” Izumi says cheerfully.

That’s the signal for everyone to move on.

*****

Rasmus gets up to do the dishes and Fabio puts the leftovers in the fridge.

Fabio disappears into the shower without protest.

He lets his thoughts flow as the water runs down his body. He’s a little excited about having to sleep a night away from home…maybe even looking forward to it. As long as he doesn’t get homesick.

There is a buzz from Rasmus’s mobile and he picks it up immediately.

“Hi Marcel! This is Rasmus, Fabio’s dad…. When would you like us to arrive? … Well, okay… That’s perfect… He’s in the shower now, so we can go when he’s dressed… Is there anything we should bring?… Well, okay, that sounds great….. See you in an hour.”

“I think he’s as ready as he can be, so we’ll be gone in a moment,” Rasmus says to Izumi after he ends the conversation.

“Rasmus, I really hope you’re not thinking about leaving in your stinky workout clothes?” Izumi asks with a frown.

“Of course not, dear. It would never occur to me,” he replies good-naturedly, giving her a light kiss on her cheek.

We can only guess whether he would have given it a second thought if Izumi hadn’t asked him the question.

*****

Morning in San Myshuno

Marcus frowns and sighs deeply as he once again changes the draft of his vows.

He knows Jade can be quite touchy if he misplaces his words and he really wants to live up to her expectations for this ceremony…. He frowns once more…Should he point out honesty as a promise or would that be taking it too far? Most of the secrets of his past are probably best left unsaid in the past.

He closes the notebook with a sigh of resignation.

He probably won’t remember a word when he stands under the wedding arch. It has to go as well as it can and hopefully she’ll forgive him later.

*****

In the bedroom, Jade has just woken up. She seems just as worried as Marcus. However, it’s not her vows that weigh her down.

Marcus’s concern does not diminish when he finds her with an unhappy face.

“Hey Baby, what’s going on?” he asks, hugging her.

“I feel so uncomfortable. I’m nauseous and my body feels so heavy and clumsy. This was supposed to be my big day… our big day,” she corrects herself in a tearful voice.

“But Baby? I can assure you that you don’t seem clumsy at all.” Marcus comforts

They sit on the edge of the bed and he takes her hand carefully.

“How bad is it? Should we cancel the party tonight?” he asks cautiously.

“No Marcus, you fool. We can’t disappoint our guests,” she says, offended……”But for the record, if anyone were to ask me then I would strongly advise against postponing the wedding until a pregnancy has set in. Why couldn’t you pull yourself together a little sooner,” she continues reproachfully.

“I’m sorry Jade. As I recall, you wouldn’t accept my proposal at first. Still, I’m really relieved that you want to go through with the wedding tonight,” he says softly.

“If you’re talking about the lousy proposal you tried the first time, then no. But I love you even though you’re not very gifted when it comes to understanding what women dream about,” she says.

On top of such a unique declaration of love, he can’t help but offer to massage her sore shoulders and back.

She leans into his large, warm hands with a sigh. His hands are soft and sensitive, even though the man they sit on often seems rather inconsiderate.

“Are you feeling better now?” he asks.

“Yes, thank you Marcus,” she says with a sweet smile.

She is a very irresistible and attractive woman so he pulls her closer and gives her a kiss.

Unfortunately, she quickly breaks free and leaves the bed.

“I’m going to take a shower, Marcus,” she announces.

“You certainly don’t look clumsy,” he assures her as she steps out the door with smooth feminine movements.

Marcus sits back on the bed and thinks about life. It’s his wedding today. He wouldn’t have thought it possible a year ago.

He is getting married and will soon be a father….well yes, actually for the second time. Life is full of unpredictable surprises.

*****

Morning in Copperdale

Outside the Price family house, Rasmus and Fabio meet a young guy.

“Hi there!…Fabio? Jayden’s friend I guess,” he says welcomingly.

“Exactly! Fabio and Rasmus,” Rasmus replies while looking at Fabio with a smile.

“Hi, are you Jayden’s big brother?” Fabio asks

“Me? No, I’m Kevin, an exchange student living with the Price family.”

“Why? Aren’t there any schools in your hometown?” Fabio asks in surprise. He’s never heard of exchange students before.

“There are no high schools like Copperdale High School where I’m from. It’s the best….plus, it gives me the opportunity to learn more about the world outside the place I was born,” Kevin explains carefully.

“That sounds so cool! I want to be an exchange student too. I want to travel the world when I grow up. I want to be a space ranger or a jungle adventurer,” Fabio says enthusiastically.

“Oh, I see. There are hardly any high schools in space or in the jungle, so maybe you can start in Copperdale like me,” Kevin kindly replies.

In the meantime, Jayden’s father, Marcel, has opened the front door and is in the process of inviting Rasmus inside.

Rasmus quickly calls Fabio before following Marcel.

“I’ll leave the door open. He can follow when he’s ready,” Marcel says kindly.

“We can sit in the kitchen and talk,” Marcel says as he shows Rasmus the way by walking ahead.

“We’re really happy that Fabio is going to stay overnight with his friend. We’re going to a wedding where no other children are present, so we think he’ll be bored,” explains Rasmus.

“It’s absolutely no problem. Jayden has really been looking forward to this overnight stay,” Marcel replies kindly.

Fabio has detached himself from the conversation with Kevin and has now reached the front door.

He turns when he hears Jayden call his name.

The joy of reunion is undeniable and the two children immediately fall into each other’s arms.

“Fabio, I’ll tell you a secret. I have invited some girls from school later this afternoon. Your crush is coming too,” Jayden whispers.

“You’re being dumb, Jayden. I don’t have a crush,” Fabio says, blushing while pushing Jayden away.

“You have. You don’t have to tell me,” Jayden grins, giving him a teasing shove back.

“No, I haven’t!” Fabio replies with a startled look.

Fortunately, the boys quickly ends their verbal spat.

“Never mind Fabio, let’s play some video games,” Jayden suggests in reconciliation.

“Jayden told me Fabio just had two little siblings. How do you manage them for the wedding?” says Marcel.

“We have hired a professional babysitter….They’re not that difficult to care for anymore so I’m sure it’ll be fine, otherwise we are just a phone call away,” Rasmus answers seriously.

Jayden leads the way into the house to show Fabio to the game console by the big TV. In front of him he sees his father having a conversation with Fabio’s dad.

“Hi Mr. Bonde!” he greets politely.

“Hi Jayden! You can just call me Rasmus…. Fabio has been so looking forward to spending the night with you. I’m sure you’ll have a great time,” Rasmus says back.

Fabio does not interfere in Rasmus’s interpretation. He has already grabbed the controller and turned on the game.

He wishes he had a game console like that himself…..Maybe he should ask Rasmus whether he can buy one. It’s not worth asking his mother. She’ll definitely say no.

They’re playing a MySims Racing game. It’s really fun.

“Yay! My car is way faster than yours, Jayden…I’ll wipe you out,” Fabio cheers.

Jayden doesn’t answer but stares intently at the screen while pressing the controller buttons.

“Oh no, that stupid car went off the track…there must be a bug in my controller,” Fabio says annoyed, as it turns out he’s not quite as big a winner as he thought.

“It is not broken, you’re just a bad driver,” Jayden mutters.

“It sounds like the boys have already found each other,” says Rasmus, with his usual optimistic approach to life.

“Yes, boys will always be boys,” Marcel replies.

Marcel should have some experience to speak from, as the household has quite a few boys, each representing the diversity of what the term boys can mean.

Fabio cheers loudly as he has once again taken the lead.

“It sounds like I can safely leave Fabio in your care. I better go back to my home to get ready for the party. We’ll talk later,” Rasmus says cheerfully.

“Absolutely. Enjoy your evening. It’s going to be great,” Marcel says in farewell.

Once again, Fabio’s controls fail, so he might as well stop playing and say goodbye to Rasmus.

“This game is boring. I think we should find something else to do,” he says to Jayden.

*****

Fabio and Rasmus hug each other goodbye.

“Have a nice evening Fabio and be a good boy. Don’t do anything I wouldn’t do,” says Rasmus.

“I won’t and I definitely won’t drink nectar, my mother doesn’t approve,” Fabio admonishes.

“I sure hope not,” Rasmus replies with a frown, wondering where Fabio heard about nectar.

Meanwhile, Jayden has gone up to his room.

Fabio finds him in front of a dollhouse. Jayden is so lucky. He has everything.

“What are we playing? Can we be jungle adventurers?” asks Fabio.

“Yes, we can build some traps with my blocks,” Jayden answers enthusiastically.

The two friends are definitely set for an exciting adventure, so we can safely leave the boys to their fantasy universe and turn our attention elsewhere.

*****

San Myshuno

“Marcus, I’m going to Elijah and Fatima’s apartment now to get dressed in my wedding dress. Promise me you’ll wear a nice suit when we meet this afternoon,” Jade says.

“Of course baby. My suit is hanging freshly pressed in the closet so I’ll be ready for you.” he replies.

“….And Jade, let me just compliment you on how elegant you look in that jacket. Why do you even need to change clothes?” he asks.

“Gosh Marcus, you’re completely hopeless. How can you even think of something like that,” Jade says with a slight shake of her head.

“Because I mean it… I think you look amazing just the way you are,” he replies.

“See you Marcus,” she says and walks out of the bedroom with quick steps.

She looks a little tense, like someone prepared for battle rather than on their way to a happy event. She is probably still affected by her morning sickness.

She looks back as she walks out the front door, a little worried about letting go of control.

On the other hand. Marcus is a grown man and she should trust him. They have been planning this wedding together in detail for months.

Marcus feels that this day has already begun to exhaust him, so he lies down on the bed to rest a bit. Just for a few minutes.

A moment later he is fast asleep.

*****

Jade meets Elijah by the mailboxes in the foyer.

“Here comes the bride.” he says enthusiastically.

“You look amazing Jade, should we start the big transformation?” he says with excitement in his voice.

*****

Jade feels anything but amazing. Maybe it’s her nerves that are causing the nausea to return.

She walks closer to Elijah, who tells her a few more details about what he has in mind.

“I have ten wedding dresses for you to choose from. You can change in the privacy of our bedroom,” he says.

“Gosh, Elijah, no need to pretend. You have already taken several pictures of me in a negligee. I’m getting dressed right here,” she says indignantly.

*****

Let’s turn our attention away from the somewhat grumpy Jade and give her time to get dressed.

In the kitchen behind the clinic, Kristine is getting ready to decorate the wedding cake.

The cake has been refrigerated for a few days to allow it to set and develop flavor.

Kristine is a pretty skilled cake artist and spreads cream and icing with a confident hand.

*****

Meanwhile, Jade has gotten dressed and is standing in front of the camera while Elijah takes a few pictures she can review later.

Fatima watches it all intently from the bench, ready to give her honest opinion.

Jade looks very sophisticated, with a big hat and short Jackie O style jacket.

“I don’t think it’s quite what I imagined, but how do I look?” she asks, a little unsure.

“I agree with Jade, Elijah. If I may say so, she looks like a noble lady on her way to the Royal Ascot Racecourse. Definitely sophisticated but you don’t really get a bridal wipe,” says Fatima.

“Well, I get it. I just thought it wouldn’t hurt to try something a little atypical,” Elijah says in his defense.

“I like your creative thinking, but today is not the day,” Fatima states.

*****

Jade tries on a dress with a big balloon skirt, which we skip showing because she absolutely didn’t like it.

After each try-on, Elijah shows her pictures of her appearance and finally it seems to look like something she’s happy with.

“So what do you say?” Elijah asks attentively.

“Oh Elijah, I love that dress, I really do. I love the cut but it’s maybe a little too simple. It reminds me of…you could say a nightgown,” she says.

“Well Jade, we can certainly not have you getting married in a nightgown, but luckily I still have a few other wedding dresses in stock,” he says seriously.

Here I would like to interject as the author that it’s not very realistic to try on dresses right before the wedding, but this is Sims and I’m too eager to get to the point to spend an extra chapter on the preparations.

*****

Jade is ready to show off another dress that we can’t fully reveal yet.

“Look at you! You look absolutely dazzling!” Fatima cheers loudly.

“Yes, I would say that too. You look really beautiful in that wedding dress,” Elijah adds seriously.

Elijah slowly approaches Fatima, but neither of them can take their eyes off Jade.

“If you agree, I’d say we found your dress, Jade,” he says.

Fortunately, she agrees.

“You did it again Elijah,” Fatima says.

“We did it together,” he says, giving her a wink.

*****

I won’t reveal any more pictures of Jade right now, but I may reveal the wedding cake the moment the full transformation takes place.

With the cake figure on top, Kristina’s job is done for now.
Maybe it’s time for these two to get ready to get dressed up for the afternoon ceremony.

*****

Brindleton Bay

It’s around noon when Rasmus returns from Copperdale.

Izumi has just breastfed Sif and she stands calmly waiting for the baby to burp before putting her to sleep.

She finds Rasmus at the sink in the bathroom.

“How did it go?” she asks attentively.

“It went great. He was immediately engrossed in playing a game with Jayden and barely had time to say goodbye,” Rasmus replies cheerfully.

“That sounds good. Let’s hope he doesn’t get homesick or have nightmares when he goes to sleep,” says Izumi.

“I don’t think you should worry. Marcel told me that a few more kids will be coming to their sleepover. They have ordered pizza for later. I’m sure they’ll be so busy having fun together and he’ll be so tired that he’ll sleep like a rock all night,” Rasmus says with a big smile.

“I hope you’re right,” Izumi says, shaking off her worry.

“I’m going to take a shower now. What about you?” she asks, planting a kiss on his cheek.

It’s actually Rasmus’ second bath this morning, but well…. both babies are sleeping and he won’t be harmed by an extra scrub.

*****

Rasmus comes out of the bathroom wearing his tuxedo. He last wore it at his own wedding.

He sits on the couch to wait for Izumi. She soon joins from the bedroom.

She sends him an inspecting look before sitting down next to him.

“You really are pretty in pink,” he says, looking at her appreciatively.

“Thanks Rasmus, you look quite handsome in that suit yourself,” she giggles with a cheeky look.

“Didn’t you say the babysitter would be here in good time?” she asks.

“But we still have plenty of time before we leave,” Rasmus replies.

“I think we should call them. Imagine if they misunderstood the date or time,” she insists.

“But I’m sure…,” Rasmus begins, but then he changes his mind.

He grabs his cell phone and gives the babysitter’s office a call.

*****

“Well, as I said, there’s no need to worry. The babysitter is on the way and will be here within 10 minutes,” says Rasmus.

Futte watches them from behind the knitting basket. She is fishing balls of yarn up the basket, an activity that Izumi does not usually approve of.

Fortunately, Izumi seems to be preoccupied with other things.

A few minutes later, she is disturbed in her antics when there is a light knock on the front door.

The babysitter is an older man with a somewhat peculiar hairstyle. However, the latter should not affect his ability to care for children. He assures Izumi that he has plenty of experience in childcare after raising six children of his own.

Izumi gives him some information about the babies’ habits and needs and obliges him to call them if he has any doubts.

He immediately goes to the babies to see if they have any needs he should take care of.

Rasmus and Izumi can now safely leave their home. Just the two of them together for the first time in months without any obligations. It’s an unfamiliar feeling.

*****

Early afternoon in San Myshuno

After making sure Marcus has left for their wedding venue in Myshuno Meadows, Jade heads home to rest.

Fatima is looking forward to enjoying a cup of coffee before she and Elijah leave.

“Are you sure you don’t want to have a cup of coffee with me, Elijah?” she asks.

“Nah, coffee’s not really my thing,” Elijah says.

“When you’re done with your coffee, I would like to help you get dressed.,” Elijah says.

“I’m sure you will,” she replies, blushing.

There’s nothing obscene in Elijah’s desire, but there’s something about his gaze that makes her heart beat faster.

Elijah gets up from the chair, a little restless. They should get ready now.

When he sees Ambrosius, he picks up the cat in his arms.

He would never have guessed he was a cat lover, but this little guy has convinced him that you should never judge yourself in advance.

He looks at Fatima who is doing the dishes.

He sits down and fishes his phone out of his pocket to check the time.

“Didn’t you just say we should hurry?” Fatima asks with a raised eyebrow.

“Well, I assume we have just enough time,” he says cheerfully.

“Elijah, I know you well enough to read your mind,” she teases.

“Well, I assume you do, Fatima,” he says,

Before they can get into their party clothes, they have to strip down to their underwear. Luckily, they still have the time they need.

*****

Afternoon in San Myshuno

Meanwhile, Izumi and Rasmus have arrived at Myshuno Meadows. The wedding is approaching when they discover a terrible mistake. The wedding gift is still in the dresser.

“We can’t come to the wedding without a gift. How could we forget?” Izumi says, looking at Rasmus with a stressed look.

“Because we both have quite a lot on our plates at the moment I guess. Cheer up Izumi…I’ll go get it. You can hold a seat for me and I’ll hopefully make it back before the ceremony,” Rasmus says.

Izumi looks so devastated. Rasmus hugs her and comforts her with a kiss.

She always seems so calm and confident, but adjusting to their new family structure, breastfeeding two babies, not getting enough sleep, and worrying about Fabio’s well-being is taking its toll.

They’ve made a promise to each other. To step in and support each other when needed. It’s only natural that Rasmus has to make the trip back to Brindleton Bay,

He follows her with his eyes as she picks up speed on her way to the wedding venue.

She really looks pretty in pink.

*****

The shadows are getting long and the guests are now arriving in a steady stream.

It’s just before the big moment, but before then we’ll see how Fabio is doing in Copperdale.

*****

Late afternoon in Copperdale

“I have never had hot dogs like this before, I think this is my favorite food,” Fabio says with great enthusiasm.

“Good to hear Fabio. These are Choripanes. You could probably compare them to hot dogs, except for the chorizo ​​sausage and chimichurri that gives them their special flavor.”

Fabio listens thoughtfully to Marcel’s explanation. That’s a lot of strange words for something as simple as a hot dog.

“Do you work as a chef like Rasmus?” he asks curiously.

“No, I am a freelance writer. I write educational books, articles and historical novels, for a publishing house,” Marcel replies.

Jayden sits down at the table but then immediately disappears when the doorbell rings. Their classmates have arrived.

To Fabio’s ears, Marcels job sounds like very boring, so he refrains from asking any more questions.

Instead, he quickly eats the rest of his Choripan so he can leave the table and find his friends.

He politely thanks them for the food and takes his used plate into the kitchen.

He has just washed his dirty plate when Billie Jang runs up to him and gives him a huge hug.

Fabio wouldn’t exactly call Billie a crush, but there’s no doubt the two kids are really good friends.

*****

At sunset at the Myshuno Meadows

We can’t put off the moment any longer….

Jade has dreamed of a romantic wedding and now the stage is set to perfection.

She looks really beautiful and elegant in her silk mermaid wedding dress with a lace covered yoke. A drapery softly frames her budding baby bump.

She sees Marcus standing at the end of the avenue. She takes her time approaching with smooth, elegant movements.

This is her once-in-a-lifetime time to shine.

Marcus turns when he hears her footsteps approaching. She looks divinely beautiful. He swallows the lump that gathers in his throat as the world grinds to a halt around him.

She offers him her arm, as always one step ahead of him.

“You look like a princess,” he whispers.

They walk down the wedding aisle together. Not a single step is taken wrong as they have rehearsed everything beforehand.

She blows him a kiss and he feels like the luckiest man in the world.

Finally they reach the wedding arch.

“It’s your last chance to be a runaway bride,” he whispers.

“My God Marcus, can you never take anything seriously?” she says, raising an eyebrow.

She shouldn’t doubt him. He made his decision a long time ago.

We keep a little distance from the bride and groom while Jade says her vows. Kristine has risen from her chair.

Kristine is a skilled photographer and she has taken on the role of wedding photographer.
She captures them in the lens the moment Jade puts a ring on Marcus’ finger.

He looks at the golden ring as it takes him a second to understand what it’s doing there.

Fatima sniffs loudly and wipes her eyes, touched with emotion. She has always believed that there was an honest and gentle guy behind Marcus’s insensitive facade. If any woman can handle him, it is Jade.

…But now something surprising is happening in the background.

It’s not Elijah’s thoughtful look that’s surprising, but Don!? The eternal bachelor wipes his eyes.

Of course, there is no reason to draw hasty conclusions. Maybe he just got a fly in the eye.

We shouldn’t forget who this whole setup is designed for.

Marcus has just put a ring on Jade’s finger.

With this, the author elegantly skips the hassle of writing the bride and groom’s mutual vows.

There are several things happening here that catch the eye

Don certainly doesn’t seem to be bothered by a fly and you might sense some people approaching behind Kristine’s back.

Kristine is still busy photographing the happy newlywed couple.

Bride and groom kissing each other, with a romantic stage backdrop

Kristine turns her gaze when she hears a light cough.

It’s Paolo who greets her with a silent nod.

“You’re late, the ceremony is almost over,” she says as a statement.

“We’re both late. We both apologize,” Rasmus interjects.

Let’s not dwell on things that can’t be changed, but enjoy the sight of the bride and groom who seem to be caught in an endless kiss.

Don cries silently and wipes his eyes. It’s as if his whole life is cracking and dissolving in a flood of emotions. A tidal wave that threatens to sweep him into the abyss

He tries to pull himself together. Not now, not here.

Then the unique moment is over.

Jade and Marcus look at each other and get ready to overcome their first common challenge together.

In front of them, all their guests have gathered with lots of rice.

“I hope you’ll help me remove the prickly elements from my dress when they’re finished?” Jade says, looking at Marcus.

“I definitely will, don’t worry, …I’ll look forward to it,” he says, sending her a wink.

There is no way back or around it.

Fortunately, it looks like the guests have already sent the worst cascades of rice.

Let’s take a break while everyone gets ready for the next act.

*****

Evening in Brindleton Bay

Now that Jade and Marcus’ marriage formalities are well and truly over, we’ll take a quick look at what Tusnelda is up to. She’s not part of the wedding events, as she only knows Marcus as her doctor and She is therefore not invited.

She looks good but unfortunately, things are not going so well for Tusnelda and Martin. Their repeated IVF treatments have not led to the desired result.

….But hey, this is a happy day in a happy chapter, so this is not the time to dwell on this any longer.

Let’s focus instead on a more festive event. An event that seems to come as a surprise to everyone.

It turns out it’s the kittens’ birthday and today they are transforming into full-grown cats.

Mia has grown into an adorable female who, apart from the fur color, is a true copy of Trix.

Fortunately, Tusnelda also gets to experience the next transformation, which takes place outside the house.

What a handsome boy. A perfect mix of Trix and Fiona’s genes.

The transformation is just over when Martin comes home from today’s match.

He greets Tusnelda with a familiar kiss on the cheek.

“Hi Sweetie, how was your day,” he asks.

“Martin, we’ve been so stuck up in our own problems that we forgot the kittens’ birthday. It’s today and I think we should do something to celebrate the day,” she says, without directly answering his question.

*****

In addition to giving the kittens, or more correctly the young cats, some extra treats in their food bowls, they both get new collars.
After that, they will take some new photographs for the wall.

Look at the handsome boy or perhaps you could more accurately say the two handsome boys.

The two young cats seem somewhat surprised by the extra attention they are getting from their proud family. For a cat, a birthday is no different than any other day, so why all the fuss?

It can be a bit difficult to find free space for photographs on the densely packed walls, but with a little ingenuity, it was possible.

The celebration and the photoshoot are over for now and it’s time to turn our attention back to another celebration.

*****

Evening in San Myshuno

We are back in Myshuno Meadows. The guests stand close together, looking expectantly at the stylish wedding cake.

Marcus looks for Jade who has somehow gotten lost in the crowd.

The custom is that the bride and groom should cut the first piece together.

Here Kristine suddenly remembers that she still hasn’t thrown rice at the bride and groom and she is thus in the process of adding a handful of dry crunchy elements to her own masterpiece.

Clare doesn’t seem to approve of the thought of having to fish hard rice grains out of her piece of cake, so she gives Kristine a disapproving look.

Fortunately, today’s main characters seem to be completely unconcerned as they cut the cake together.

Afterwards, there is free access to the cake for all invited guests.

The cake-hungry guests seem so busy fulfilling their own needs that they don’t notice Jade and Marcus carrying out another tradition.

Everyone finds a seat where they can sit at the two tables. Jade is happy and conversational, a far cry from the grumpy attitude of the morning.

She and Marcus are surrounded by old friends from the Partyhouse club who all offer their best wishes.

New friends take over the seats from the old ones to wish them congratulations. Maybe they can sneak in an extra piece of wedding cake at the same time.

Paolo commands everyone’s attention and raises a glass. As Marcus and Jade’s oldest friend and former roommate, he undertakes to give a speech to the bride and groom.

“Dear Marcus and Jade. As your former roomie from the Partyhouse, I can tell you all some pretty salacious anecdotes, but maybe this isn’t the time…” he begins.

“It’s definitely not!” Marcus interrupts him, to everyone’s laughter.

“Well, we’ll have those later tonight… So let me just toast the newlyweds and wish you both a happy life together in whatever life has in store for you…, congratulations to the bride and groom!” he says with a smirk.

“To the bride and groom!” everyone shouts, raising their glasses in a toast.

“He could have put more effort into that speech,” Jade whispers to Marcus.

Marcus doesn’t respond to her remark but takes a big sip from his glass. He already knows she can be quite touchy if things don’t turn out the way she imagined.

*****

Once everyone has toasted and eaten all the cake they can hold, it is time for the bride and groom to open the ball with the first dance.

Several of the guests begin to blow soap bubbles.

Jade and Marcus perform a pretty perfect dance together.

Then the dance floor will be opened to everyone.

There is something stereotypically recognizable about this sight, capturing all the men who are about to gather at the bar.

Marcus and Elijah enjoy a glass of wine together. In the past, they didn’t have much respect for each other, but those times are clearly over. Now they are brothers forever.

*****

Evening in Copperdale

In Copperdale the sleepover party is in full swing. There has been some rearrangement of the furniture in the living room. The coffee table has been put away so there has been room for dancing.

After they are tired of dancing all the children are busy playing a video game together.

Now Jayden’s brother Sidney comes into the room.

“Hey kids, let’s stop the game and roll out the sleeping bags on the floor,” he says.

No one seems to be listening so Sidney starts rolling out some sleeping bags. When he spots Kevin he lets out his irritation.

“Hey Kevin, I don’t understand why I’m suddenly the one running this event. Shouldn’t those kids be able to take care of themselves?” he asks.

“Well, that’s your parents’ order. You should ask them,” Kevin replies.

*****

Sooner or later, he still managed to get the kids motivated to place a number of sleeping bags spread out across the floor.

The atmosphere is a bit chaotic, though. Music is playing, the children’s television is on, and Fabio and Jayden start a pillow fight.

The boys continue their pillow fight for a while longer.

Fabio takes a break on the couch to chat with Billie. Jayden dances close by, trying to listen to what they’re talking about.

They always seem to have something to talk about, and while he’ll probably deny he’s jealous, he’s a little bothered by having to share Fabio’s attention. He should have thought it through because it was probably a stupid idea to invite her, even though she’s a nice girl.

A little later, a pizza is brought out and the children sit around to eat.

Jayden claims a sleeping bag and tells everyone that the purple sleeping bag belongs to Fabio. Then the rest of them have to split up wherever they find an available sleeping bag.

Sidney goes around to see if everyone has settled down, then says goodnight.

When the lights are turned off, the flock quickly calms down.

Since all the children are now sleeping soundly, we will direct our attention elsewhere and say goodbye to the children in Copperdale.

*****

Late night in San Myshuno

Rasmus and John are talking on the terrace when Don joins them.

“Hey Don, old friend. Can we talk?” Rasmus asks.

Rasmus apologizes to John before standing up with Don.

He gives Don a big hug.

“I haven’t seen you in a while, Don, how are you?” he asks.

“I’m fine old friend, all fine,” Don says, hugging him tightly.

“You seem a bit sensitive, is there something bothering you?” Rasmus asks.

“It is nothing to talk about, just some silly memories…It’s not a crime to be sensitive, is it?” Don says.

“Of course not, Don. Just so you know that if there’s anything you want to talk about, you can trust me. We’re still best friends,” says Rasmus.

“Hey Rasmus, there’s absolutely no need to dwell on bad memories right now, we are at a wedding party. …To talk about something else. Who would have thought that the old bachelor would let himself be captured?” Don laughs.

In the background, Izumi sits, amused by the conversation. It always amazes her how two men can be so different and yet be each other’s best friends.

“What do you mean by captured? A marriage is not a prison,” Rasmus says, wondering.

“No, calm down old boy, but it’s still a goodbye to your unrestricted freedom to follow your own whims,” ​​Don says with a laugh.

“In return, it gives so much more than you lose,” Rasmus replies while looking up at Izumi.

She sends him an inviting look to follow her.

“Sorry Don, I promised my lovely wife a dance, but please come by tomorrow so we can talk,” he says before following Izumi into the banquet hall.

Clara looks bored. Maybe she misses the time when Don only had an eye for her charms, but he seems to have completely forgotten the time when he was the most seductive womanizer of all time.

Izumi looks at Rasmus smiling. For her, there is no womanizer more seductive than him. He is good-natured and faithful and a wonderfully lover and caring father.

The party is still in full swing and the guests are dancing or mingling with each other.

Elijah is in conversation with Eva. He finds her, (or perhaps her attributes,) very interesting. Eva on the other hand feels quite honored that an intellectual and artistic type like him would bother to talk to her. So little do they know about each other.

Izumi enjoys the dance and Rasmus’s firm grip on her.

“I almost feel guilty about enjoying the freedom from our children so much,” she says, blushing.

“You shouldn’t Izumi, they’re in the best of hands,” Rasmus says with conviction in his voice.

Don seems to be caught up in his own thoughts, out on the terrace.

Izumi looks for Rasmus who wanted to ask the disc jockey for a special song. He is now caught up in a conversation with Fatima.

Jade looks around the room for Marcus. They should be serving dinner soon.

*****

The bartender has encouraged the guests to order one last drink before she goes home.

Izumi just enjoys dancing without anyone interrupting her.

Now they are gathered once again in conversation around the tables.

Rasmus once again encourages Don to visit him the next day.

Then he leaves the table to take care of the task of mixing drinks.

The buffet is open now and the guests gradually begin to fill their plates with the exquisite delicacies.

“There you are Marcus, where have you been?” Jade asks suspiciously.

“I’ve brought the food from the kitchen, Jade. The food doesn’t serve itself.,” he replies, blowing her a kiss.

“You really should come by tomorrow Don. It’s been so long and you haven’t seen the twins yet,” Izumi says, smiling.

“Well, the twins, yes,” he says hesitantly….”I’ll stop by, I have some news to share myself,” he adds.

Izumi turns to the women at the table.

“Hi! I’m Izumi, married to Don and Marcus’ training buddy, Rasmus…What’s your connection to Jade and Marcus?” she says cheerfully.

“Hi Izumi, I’m Eva. Jade and Marcus’ former roomie. You seem like a fun girl,” Eva replies with a smile.

Izumi is really fun and lively tonight. She’s thoroughly enjoying being out among people again. Adults who don’t need her assistance for anything.

*****

Everyone gets up to get food from the buffet.

Izumi sits down next to Eva so they can get to know each other a little better.

On her left she has Paolo. He is also a former Roomie from the Powerhouse. He seems now they have reached the point where he can entertain with stories from the time Marcus and Jade shared the house with Eva and him. It sounds like a pretty wild time.

At the other table, most of the men are sitting. Rasmus has sat next to Don. To his right is Fatima. She is the only woman at the table, but she only seems to have eyes for Elijah, who is sitting across from her.

Elijah blows her a kiss and gives her a cheeky wink.

“Feeling good, Fatima?” he asks.

“Yes Elijah…Stop teasing me,” she replies, blushing.

Their uninhibited flirtation gives the rest of the guests at the table the feeling of being uninvited spectators to an intimate foreplay. They should find a room.

Let’s just enjoy for a moment the sight of all the wedding guests sitting at the tables at the same time.

*****

Rasmus looks speculatively at Don as he leaves the table. He is sure something is bothering him, regardless of what he claims.

Considering that Don is the community’s most famous womanizer, we can all agree that he is acting very strangely this night.

He seems surprisingly attracted to the wedding arch.

The fact that Clara is attracted to Don probably comes as less of a surprise.

She’s been following him outside, but now she’s starting to wonder if it’s a good idea. Especially considering what he’s doing under the wedding arch? It makes no sense to her. He must have lost his mind.

While Clara ponders whether or not to try to talk to Don, we return to the banquet hall.

The party is almost over and Elijah suggests to Fatima that they go out to the park and get some fresh air.

Clara doesn’t seem to have reached a decision, but now Don has seen her and he’s getting closer.

She turns to him and he sees her tear-filled eyes.

“Clara, are you crying? What happened?” he asks.

“I could ask you the same thing Don. I can tell you’re no longer attracted to me. I feel I am suddenly just a boring woman to you?” she says.

“It’s hard to explain, Clara, but I’ve made some bad choices in the past. I can’t go on like this anymore,” he says seriously.

Behind him you can see Fatima and Elijah running past.

They seem to be in a bit of a hurry if this is supposed to be a walk in the park.

You get the suspicion that these two have something wicked going on that can’t quite bear to be seen in the light.

“So you don’t find me attractive anymore?” Clara says with tears in her voice.

“Please don’t cry Clara, you are a very attractive woman. I’ve really enjoyed all our little flings together, but you’re a married woman and I should never…” he says, stroking her cheek.

“I don’t get you, Don. These things have never bothered you before, but you seem changed. Won’t you at least give me a kiss goodbye?” she asks.

Elijah and Fatima disappear into the park’s observatory. It’s a moonlit night, so there are guaranteed to be no clouds to cover the stars.

While Fatima and Elijah aim for the stars of the night, Don gives Clare a solid kiss goodbye. When it comes to Don, nothing less will do. He is not a ruthless man.

Let’s just enjoy the beauty of the sky and a sudden fireworks display for a moment.

Don turns and follows Clara with his eyes as she walks back toward the banquet hall. He hates seeing a woman cry. It makes him feel like he is a reckless jerk.

He doesn’t understand himself anymore, but the thought of the embarrassing paralysis can completely cool him down.

In the past, it would be so easy for him to make her sparkle with joy.

He turns and walks in the direction she just went.

*****

The bride and groom have already returned home to their apartment in the Art District.

Don continues towards the park entrance and disappears towards the city. It’s time for him to leave the Myshuno Meadows and find his way home to Valentino in Oasis Springs.

*****

Fatima and Elijah leave the observatory at a slightly more relaxed pace than when they first arrived.

“Do you think anyone noticed anything?” Fatima says to Elijah.

“I don’t care and if they did I’ll still stand by you,” he replies.

They kiss each other while the last guests slowly trickle home in the background.

There are only those two in the world. The couple in love and the perfect full moon together create a picture of an almost cinematic romantic evening.

“You are the love of my life, Fatima,” Elijah says as he lifts her with his strong arms.

As often before, he makes her feel almost weightless. No man has ever done that before.

“As you are mine, Elijah,” she sighs and kisses him. It feels as tender as the touch of a feather.

*****

Night in San Myshuno Art District

Kristine and John have arrived home to the apartment in the Art District.

Marcus and Jade have long since gotten out of their wedding clothes.

Marcus follows Jade with his eyes. It wasn’t exactly how he imagined his wedding night.

She is a very beautiful and attractive woman, but it is late and it has been a long day…..and he should not forget that she is pregnant.

He sighs heavily, there will be other nights when the nausea and fatigue will not bother her.

They snuggle close together and soon they are both asleep.

*****

Night in Brindleton Bay

The moon illuminates the lawn as Rasmus and Izumi return to their home. They can barely keep their hands off each other, but that will have to wait.

Izumi finds the babysitter sitting relaxed in front of the TV.

She sits next to him on the couch so she can hear everything about how the twins’ evening went.

“They’re really lovely babies. They’ve been pretty easy to please. You can tell they have good parents,” the babysitter says kindly.

“Really? How can you tell?” Izumi asks, delighted at the unexpected praise.

“They show signs of feeling fundamentally secure that they are loved and that someone cares about them,” he replies.

“I’m so glad you said that. We really try to meet their needs, but you know there are two of them and we have an older son, so it can be hard to make ends meet,” says Izumi.

“I know all about it. You know I raised six kids all by myself,” the babysitter says.

“Couldn’t your wife help?” Izumi asks skeptically.

Rasmus looks impatiently at the babysitter. Why is he still hanging out? He has a feeling he’s exaggerating quite a bit…

“Well Izumi, should we go to bed?” he asks.

“Sorry, I’m losing track of time, I’d better go now. It’s been a pleasure looking after your lovely children,” the babysitter says.

Izumi gets up when she hears crying from the bedroom.

Even though they have paid the agency for the babysitter’s salary, she gives him some extra tips. He has done his job really well.

Izumi has really enjoyed her evening off, but her heart swells with love when she sees the children.

Sif is still sleeping soundly while she is breastfeeding Sune.

After breastfeeding him, she stands and looks at him closely. He seems to have taken her hazel eyes. He makes a grimace with his mouth that might be a smile.

*****

Izumi finds the last few sliders in the fridge while wondering where Rasmus has disappeared to.

He enters the kitchen the moment she sits down.

He also finds some leftovers in the fridge. Before he sits down, he notices her plate and raises an eyebrow when he sees what she’s eating.

He chooses not to comment on it, to avoid unnecessary discussions. Something is more important to him right now.

“I’m so proud that the babysitter told me that he could feel on our children they are safe and loved,” says Izumi.

“Of course they are. They have you as a mother,” says Rasmus.

“Not to forget you as a father, Rasmus. I think you’re doing really well too,” says Izumi.

“I’m definitely trying to do my best,” he replies.

*****

While Rasmus does the dishes, Izumi looks thoughtfully at the pictures of Fabio, hanging above the desk. It’s the first time he’s slept away from home. He’s grown so much lately.

“Marcel promised to call if Fabio gets homesick, right?” she says to Rasmus.

“Fabio is fine Izumi and the little buggers are sleeping. How about a little snuggling with your old man?” says Rasmus.

“But you’re not that old…” she begins.

“Young or old is not the issue here,” Rasmus murmurs in a hushed tone, disarming her for further debate on the subject.

*****

What started as a prelude to a little adult fun is quickly interrupted by Sif’s insistent crying.

She is hungry and almost desperate for food.

Izumi watches her calmly as she empties her bottle. Izumi is a mother with an emphasis, so she enjoys taking care of the little ones.

Sif closes her eyes heavily after the meal, full and comfortable, she resumes her sleep.

*****

It finally looks like Rasmus and Izumi can resume their interrupted pleasures.

Of course, you shouldn’t take anything for granted in a home with two babies, and their tete-a-tete is almost immediately interrupted by Sif’s renewed crying.

Rasmus quickly jumps out of bed to fix a dry diaper.

Izumi stretches out under the covers with a sigh of satisfaction. It’s been a fantastic evening. She can’t remember the last time she danced and had so much fun.

Rasmus turns to Izumi when he hears her breathing become heavy and deep and turn into a light snoring.

In an instant, the prospect of sparkling pleasures on his sheet disappeared.

*****

He snuggles up to Izumi when he gets into bed and looks at her relaxed face.

She opens her eyes, disturbed by his gaze.

“I’m sorry Rasmus, I’m just so tired,” she mumbles.

“I know Izumi, it’s ok. I’m tired too,” he says good-naturedly.

The sun has already risen. In a few hours the little ones will wake up and Fabio will come home. He better get some sleep too.

Soon they are both asleep in each other’s arms.

*****

Author’s note: This was the end of a chapter that had been on the back burner for a very long time. When I finally overcame my challenges with missing images and serious bugs in the game, I had a hard time finding my motivation. The voices of my characters were silent.
I can thank some of the friends I’ve met through Simlit for bringing them back to life.
I promised myself that this will be the last big wedding I’ll describe in this story. It’s not because the wedding package is causing me any major problems. I’ve learned to take advantage of it where possible. I actually had more trouble making Fabio’s sleepover a success. Which can perhaps be seen from the randomly thrown sleeping bags lying everywhere.
I’ll end my rambling for now and start collecting the pictures for the next chapter. It won’t be another six months before I’m back.

Thanks to those of you who have stuck around all this time and those of you who are reading this 💖