104. Moving on

We start this chapter where I left off. Let me repeat. Don’s friends have said goodbye to him with a so-called bang before he leaves for Selvadorada. Don doesn’t seem thrilled about the prospect, but he needs a change in his life and doesn’t have a better suggestion himself. Katrina unexpectedly bumped into Don, and the question is, can she completely let go of him after she looks into his emerald green eyes?
Martin is also going through a breakup. Although he has accepted Tusnelda’s wish for solitude, it is difficult for him to fully deal with the emotions stirring within him. How will he cope?
Elijah and Fatima are moving out of their haunted apartment, and Rasmus and Izumi are as busy as ever. I can’t promise that everyone will find a solution in this chapter, but I can promise that everyone will move on.

*****

Windenburg Olde Platz around 4 in the morning

Loud disco rhythms are still playing at The Narwhal Arms, but only a few of tonight’s guests have stayed.

Sometime during the night, Clara’s husband must have gone home, because she is engrossed in performing a naughty dance with a guy we recognize as Matt. A sight her husband Bjørn would definitely not approve of.

Katrina and Sam haven’t gone home either.

“Katrina, how did you actually feel about running into the man who let you down so badly? Are you okay?” Sam asks inquiringly.

Katrina looks at Sam searchingly… This is so sweet. There is no hint of jealousy to be read on his face. Just compassionate concern. It makes her heart melt for the man standing before her. Don would never have worried about how she might feel.

“Thanks for asking Sam. Don can’t affect me anymore, he’s just a hopeless loser,” she says.

“It’s already morning. Would you like to come home with me and have some breakfast?” Sam asks.

“Yes, thank you Sam, I would love to,”

Sam leaves Matt with the ladylike woman he seems to have seduced. With Matt, you never know what it might lead to. (Probably a quick, not very heartfelt, bang in a closet or a smudged toilet room.)

*****

Willow Creek at half past four in the morning

For Sam, Katrina is anything but a one-night stand. He is simply in love with the beautiful, attractive woman. From her fiery red hair to…well, no details, but everything.

They walk right past the kitchen and straight into Sam’s rather decadent bedroom. Understandably so, since it’s well past normal people’s bedtime.

However, there seem to be a thing or two they need to explore before they surrender to sleep.

Katrina loves Sam’s gentle care, but if she’s quite honest, there are perhaps some things she misses about Don and his skills….

We don’t need to go into that further here.

*****

Five in the morning in Brindleton Bay

Rasmus quickly slips out of bed when he hears some disgruntled noises from Sune’s crib. He has volunteered to take the morning shift after Izumi has been babysitting the kids for several hours while he was at Don’s farewell party.

He finds a baby bottle and starts feeding the boy, but now Sif wakes up in the cradle next to him.

He tries to calm her down by speaking softly to her, but to no avail.

Izumi is already awake.

She quickly puts the crying baby to her chest and thus restores peace.

It is one of these moments that makes Rasmus the most tender at heart. He and Izumi next to each other feeding their children.

In the next room, Fabio is awakened by the noise in the bedroom. He quickly sneaks out of bed.

He enters the living room without making too much noise.

He managed to move unnoticed past all three cats sleeping side by side on the couch.

He hasn’t done all his homework and he doesn’t need to hear a reprimand from his mother. He’s told her a lie about not having homework yesterday. He knows it’s wrong.

He should do his homework in the afternoon before climbing up the climbing frame…But he always feels like he has a thousand ants in his body after a long day at school.

He has tried to explain to his mother, but it seems like she doesn’t quite understand him and accepts his arguments. She always says that duties come before pleasures.

*****

Rasmus kisses Izumi on the cheek.

“I’m sorry you woke up.”

“Don’t be. It’s quiet now so let’s jump back into bed,” she replies.

Rasmus looks at her as she walks towards the bed and he suddenly misses the time before their world was filled with crying babies and endless tasks. A time when duties did not always come first.

Now the little ones are sleeping and the house is completely quiet.

However, the night’s calm is soon over.

Futte is the first cat to leave her sleeping place.

In the marital bed, It looks like Rasmus and Izumi have chosen pleasures before catching up on their scant sleep.

Brooke is about to attack a provocative ball of yarn

Fie is heading down to the beach to find more interesting prey to hunt.

The house is waking up, but luckily Fabio has finished all his homework by now.

He lifts his head when he hears some unmistakable sounds from from the old creaky bed in the bedroom.

He is old enough to understand that he probably shouldn’t investigate it further now.

He quickly gets dressed and leaves the house.

It’s a cloudy morning but he doesn’t care.

He’s in a hurry to get to school. If he gets there early enough, he and Jayden can play ball before class starts.

Above Rasmus and Izumi’s bed, the sparks shine brightly under a gray and sad morning sky.

*****

Early morning in Oasis Springs

In the Bedrock Strait neighborhood, the sun is trying to burn its way through the morning mist.

A long shadow falls on a small house sheltered by a large rock. This is Valentino and Don’s lodging.

There are absolutely no cheerful sparks to be found over Don’s bed, no matter what Katrina might remember about him.

Don has had a rough night, interrupted by a nightmarish dream of himself free-falling into an abyss. Just before he hit the rocky bottom, or the river, or whatever harsh death lurked down there, he woke up drenched in sweat.

In the bedroom next door, Valentino is sleeping with a big smile on his face.

Valentino has participated in a completely different dream that includes a festive atmosphere and a really sweet and attractive woman.

He can feel the buzzing sensation of her kiss on his lips as he sleeps.

He can see the glow in her doe-like eyes, in the dream, as she accompanies him to his bed.

Just as the dream reaches a truly exciting stage, he unfortunately wakes up….. What a bummer.

*****

Meanwhile, Don has given up on sleeping and is now on his way to the bathroom.

He can see a face with a tired look in the mirror opposite him as he brushes his teeth. He feels like he’s been running a marathon all night.

Maybe a shower can freshen him up.

*****

Morning in Willow Creek

Sam slips out of bed carefully so as not to wake Katrina.

He quickly puts on some loose-fitting clothes and heads towards the kitchen.

He can’t believe his luck. She’s actually agreed to spend the night at his home today.

He has promised her breakfast and he is definitely a man who wants to keep his word.

His train of thought is interrupted by Matt’s voice.

“You’re making breakfast? It smells delicious. What’s on the menu?”

“Matthias? I didn’t expect you back so soon. What happened to your dance partner?” Sam laughs with a wicked grin.

“Well, there’s not much to say about her. You know, easy comes and easy goes,” he replies.

“As long as it amuses you, but I can’t stand that lifestyle anymore,” Sam replies, turning off the stove.

“Breakfast is ready. Take a plate.”

“You are becoming an old man, Sam,” Matt says with a laugh.

“Yeah, sure…” Sam says without really listening when he sees Katrina coming towards him.

“There she is, my beauties,” he groans and grabs her,

“Sam, are you talking to my bobs or me?” Katrina asks with a raised eyebrow.

“Well, I’m talking to all of you….I made breakfast,” he says, giving her a deep kiss.

She seems pleased with his bold and cheeky response.

“You’re spoiling me, Sam,” Katrina says as she finds a plate.

“Anything for a beautiful woman,” he replies.

Katrina sits silently in her own thoughts. She hopes Sam’s remark doesn’t mean he has many other women he pampers just because of their beauty. Don certainly would…

“So are you two going out or what are your plans for today?” Matt asks curiously. He has a feeling Sam won’t let go of Katrina right away.

“I don’t have to go to work today, so we could go on a trip if you want, Sam?” says Katrina.

“A trip? Where would you like to go, Katrina?”

There it is again. Don would never ask what she would like to do, she thinks in surprise.

“There are so many places, but I haven’t thought about it?” she says.

“We could go to my room and talk about it privately,” Sam suggests.

“Sam…” she says, blushing with a giggle, which must translate to her not being dismissive.

Matt looks after Sam as he walks with Katrina on his heels. He assumes that means he’s leaving the cleaning and washing up to him.

A splash from the kitchen sink means he’s also in charge of fixing it.

Matt groans with exertion over the clogged water pipe. They should get a new faucet.

He can hear Sam’s and Katrina’s voices in the background.

The sudden silence probably means they have given up on going on an excursion for now.

He should go out to a cafe, but he has a damn headache after last night’s loud music and too many drinks.

He goes to the desk to get some headache pills and so he can’t help but notice Sam and Kastrina’s playful fight on the bed.

Damn! They have an agreement that they will never bring their acquaintances home. Sam should get a door if he intends to change that rule for a longer period of time.

Matt goes into the bathroom and starts cleaning. Sooner or later, their energy must cool off.

However, there is nothing to indicate that the steam will blow over right away.

When Sam and Katrina finally reach their sparkling climax, the last longing for Don is erased from Katrina’s mind forever.

*****

Morning in Oasis Springs

After getting dressed, Don looks at his somewhat altered reflection in the mirror.

Valentino has provided the durable army green pants, the khaki shirt and the Fedora, which he claims are appropriate attire for a jungle explorer.

“What a cool guy!” Don exclaims, pointing at the man in the mirror.

What a ridiculous self-deception. He doesn’t feel cool. He feels like he is participating in a play without having received a manuscript. He knows nothing about surviving in a jungle.

The only role he has known and successfully played so far is the role of notorious womanizer…. But, even that role he is not capable of anymore….

Somewhere he has lost his spark.

He walks over to a photograph hanging on the wall. It’s a family photo he took of Rasmus, Izumi and Fabio the day after their wedding.

His gaze wanders down to the drawing of the airplane hanging below. Fabio drew it as a gift for him when he heard he was going to fly. He is a smart boy and Don has really ended up loving that boy for his trusting nature.

They have become the three people he cares about the most. Almost like family.

It’s not that he knows much about having a family, but they have ignited a longing in him to be part of one.

Don wakes up with a jump when he suddenly hears Valentino’s voice.

“Good morning Don, you look like you’re wondering about something.. What’s up?”

“Let me compliment you on the outfit. You look really sharp,”

“Well, thanks Valentino,”

“I have to say, though, that I don’t feel particularly sharp. I know nothing about surviving in the jungle, and I’ve seen some accounts online that show the jungle is full of poisonous bugs and traps that can be deadly,”

“Never believe what you see online. It’s most likely 100% exaggerated,” says Valentino.

“But…” Don begins to interject.

“There is no but! You have won this experience and I think you should trust that your tour guide is professional enough to know what they are putting an amateur through. Trust your destiny,” Valentino says with conviction.

However, Don continues without letting himself be stopped: “This tour guide. Can I even be sure he’s a professional? A friend and I have searched the internet but no one comes up that matches the names I see on my gift certificate.”

“Well like I said Don, trust your destiny and avoid the internet. It just creates myths and confusion…No more time for chat. It’s time we get going,” Valentino says, checking the time on his phone.

“Are you coming?” Valentino says and starts to walk away, effectively putting an end to further conversation.

Don stays on the bed.

What’s going on? Valentino is never usually so dismissive and unwelcoming to conversation. He gets the feeling that he is hiding something.

Don looks at his travel document hanging on the wall above the dresser.

He can choose to ‘forget to’ take it with him and thus prevent this whole foolish project from coming to fruition.

In order to have a small amount of influence on the theater performance he is participating in, he chooses to leave the travel document hanging where it is and, as Valentino suggests, he then leaves the rest up to his fate.

He has already realized that the journey he has embarked on is best done by letting Valentino lead. Right below him lurks the abyss and he has no idea how to get over it without falling into the depths.

*****

“Well there you are. What took you so long?” Valentino asks with a searching look.

“I just had a few last things to pack up,” Don says.

“Well then, it sounds like you’ve remembered everything and are ready to go,” Valentino says with an energetic hand signal.

“Yes, I have nothing more holding me back,” Don replies with a shrug.

“That’s my boy!” Valentino says with a big smile.

While Valentino calls for their transport, Don wonders when he became Valentino’s boy? Valentino doesn’t really have any family either, and after living in the same house for so long, they may be developing a familial relationship with each other.

*****

Half past eight in Brindleton Bay

Rasmus quickly jumps out of bed when he hears the grunt from Sune’s cradle.

Izumi is still sleeping. At least they both slept for a few hours.

Rasmus watches Sune greedily emptying the bottle. The babies eat larger portions with increasing frequency.

Sif stirs restlessly in the cradle next to him. There is never peace for very long at a time.

He can hear Izumi getting out of bed now.

Sif starts to cry loudly now that she hears the food is on its way.

Rasmus leaves Sif with Izumi and goes into the kitchen to start breakfast.

Fabio must have gone to school a long time ago. He hopes he found some breakfast in the fridge himself.

Izumi changes Sif’s diaper with experienced, quick hands.

Then she picks her up in her arms and stands for a while, talking gently to her. She loves being a mother.

“Good morning Rasmus. Nice that breakfast is…..”

“Nice that breakfast is what?” Rasmus asks and turns to Izumi who is already on her way away again.

“I’ll be back in a moment,” she replies.

Now it’s Sune who needs a diaper change.

“Hush baby, don’t wake your sister up..”

Sune continues to cry and Izumi speaks comfortingly to him until he calms down again.

Finally, Izumi can have her breakfast. She feels a deep hole in her stomach.

“Hi, honey. Breakfast is just finished,” Rasmus says cheerfully.

Rasmus can’t dream of a better start to the day than the one he got today. Plus, both babies are sleeping now, so they can eat together without interruption.

They sit in silence and eat, just enjoying the peace and each other’s presence.

“You look like someone who’s thinking, Rasmus?”

“Yes. Martin is coming by this morning and I’m wondering if it would be okay if I took a run down to the beach before he gets here?”

“I think it’s a fantastic idea Rasmus. Let me do the dishes and then you can leave while the camp is quiet,” Izumi says with a big smile.

*****

So it goes as agreed. Izumi washes the dishes before taking a shower.

Rasmus puts on his running clothes and runs down towards the beach.

It’s a really gray and hazy morning.

Over time, running along the beach has become something Rasmus enjoys. Here he can take a break from the babies and have some time to himself.

*****

Del Sol Valley at eight o’clock in the morning

The airport is located on top of Chateau Peak in Del Sol Valley and the cloud cover is heavy.

Visibility is unusually poor, which delays Valentino and Don’s departure. No one can control the whims of nature.

“Does this mean we postpone our departure until another day?” Don asks.

“No, of course not. The weather will clear up in a few hours,” Valentino says calmly.

“How can you be so sure of that? It could be worse.”

“The weather service has predicted fine weather. I checked it this morning. I suggest we find a seat in the cafe and settle down while we wait for the weather to clear,” Valentino suggests.

“The weather service? Didn’t you just tell me you can’t trust online services?” Don asks.

“Don’t be cocky, kid,” Valentino replies.

“Are you coming?” he asks, walking quickly towards the departure hall.

Kid!?

Katrina often called him a stupid kid, but in Valentino’s mouth, it almost sounds like a hug.

Don quickly follows Valentino who is already far ahead.

He has already gone inside when Don reaches him.

He stops as he takes in the atmosphere in the room.

“Hm, a nice place,” he says.

“I see there’s a bar to our left. Let’s find a seat.”

Valentino sits down and immediately orders a Coquito.

Don finds a seat next to him.

Valentino sticks a finger in his drink and tastes it tentatively.

“Uhm! I taste coconut, cinnamon, rum, hot nights and beautiful Selvadoran women,” he says with a dreamy look.

Don looks at him in amazement. There is still a lot he doesn’t know about Valentino and there are indications that he has had a joyful past.

“It’s still very foggy. When do you think we’ll be called out to our plane?” Don asks anxiously.

“What do you mean by being called out? I’m the pilot and I’m requesting permission to fly when the weather clears,”

“I didn’t imagine you would fly such a long distance,” Don exclaims in shock.

“What? Are you suggesting I don’t know how to fly an airplane? I’ve been flying airplanes since you were in diapers,” Valentino says.

“You really shouldn’t doubt an experienced guy like me. What do you really know about flying, Don?” Valentino asks sternly.

“Not much. I admit that,” Don says with a nervous laugh.

“Good word again Don, now I will enjoy my Coquito.”

*****

“Ah! That felt good. Let me have another one,” he says with a pleased sigh.

“You really shouldn’t be drinking drinks when you’re about to fly an airplane,” Don protests with an angry look.

“That little splash of rum can’t even stun a fly, Don, but your restlessness is getting on my nerves. You need a drink. I insist!” Valentino says in a firm voice.

“Sorry Valentino. I can have a glass of sparkling water,” Don says, embarrassed.

“It’s on my account,” Valentino says, walking over to place an order.

*****

“I asked for sparkling water, but it smells weird,” Don says hesitantly.

“Well, a few centiliters of gin never hurt anyone. It helps soothe the travel fever,” Valentino replies kindly.

“Down with it, son,” Valentino says in a calm voice as he stands next to Don and makes sure he drinks it all.

This is the second time he’s called me son today, Don thinks in wonder, as he once again lets fate decide and drinks it all down to the last drop.

*****

Morning in Windenburg

In Windenburg, there is not a cloud covering the sun. Elijah and Fatima have returned to the house with the for sale signs so that real estate agent Dan can give them a tour.

“I’m sure he asked us to meet him here at 9 and now it’s almost 10 minutes past,” says Fatima.

“I’ll send him a text message,” Elijah says.

Fatima walks closer to the house while Elijah writes the message.

She grabs the doorknob and discovers the door is unlocked.

“Elijah, come on, the door is open,” she calls.

They hesitantly walk through the door into the house.

“You’re not in any doubt about where to find the toilet,” Fatima observes.

They walk through the almost empty living room towards a kitchen they see straight ahead.

“I’ll be there in a second,” Dan shouts to them from somewhere in the kitchen.

“Is that a rabbit?” Elijah asks in surprise.

“Surprise, here we are,” Elijah says cheerfully as Dan walks towards them.

“Come inside and take a look around. This is the kitchen…It could use some new kitchen units, but otherwise everything is brand new,” says Dan.

“Of course I’ll have to make sure the rabbit is captured by a pest control company. It seems the previous owner forgot about it,” says Dan.

“Please don’t for my sake. I like pets,” Fatima replies.

Apart from the rather large kitchen extension and the living room, there are no other rooms on the ground floor. A staircase leads up to the first floor.

“Well, it must be the bedroom, then,” says Elijah.

There is a cheap double bed in front of them, so there is no doubt that the statement is true.

“The bedroom is a nice size, but it could definitely use a new bed. This mattress is both hard and dented,” says Fatima.

“I don’t think the bed should determine the quality of the house,” says Elijah.

“Are you coming or are you planning to test it out more closely?” Elijah asks with a wink as he gets up to follow Dan.

“We can test it together,” Fatima laughs.

However, Elijah doesn’t seem to be taking her invitation, so she gets up to follow him.

Elijah and Dan have entered the first floor of the extension.

“You could choose to make this room a bedroom. There’s a bathroom right outside,” says Dan.

“That could be an idea Elijah…Then you can use the other room for your work space and studio,” suggests Fatima.

“Yes, maybe…” says Elijah hesitantly.

“Oh, a studio. What is your job?” Dan asks curiously.

“I’m a self-employed dance instructor, photographer, multi-artist and musician,” says Elijah.

“Well, that’s quite a lot,” says Dan, surprised.

Fatima laughs out loud. “I can confirm that Elijah is an artist,”

“What do you mean by that laugh, Fatima,”

“Look at how you’ve transformed me,” she replies.

Dan clears his throat….”I think we should move on.

“You are not my creation. You did it all yourself,” Elijah says, kissing Fatima on the cheek.

“So, are you ready to move on?” Dan interjects. He gets the feeling that this flirtatious couple is already on the verge of inaugurating the bedroom.

The rest of the tour takes place in peace and order.

Fatima looks around one last time before they head on towards Brindleton Bay.

“I like this room and with a little paint I’m sure it will be perfect.”

*****

Del Sol Valley Airport

“See, it turned out just like I predicted, Don? The weather has cleared and I’ve been given permission to fly… That means we’re ready to take off.”

“Wasn’t that the online weather service that made that prediction?” Don replies.

“Now don’t be so cocky, kid. Are you coming?”

Don stands up hesitantly to follow Valentino. It will be his first time on an airplane.

In front of them, he spots a tiny red airplane. Considering its size, he would describe it as a cookie jar with wings on it.

He follows Valentino who walks at a leisurely pace towards the runway.

Then he stops.

“Isn’t she beautiful, Don!” he says in a rapturous voice.

Don looks towards the object of Valentino’s attention. It definitely doesn’t point towards what he had hoped for.

Right now he is sure that he is going to die today.

Valentino, however, looks as if he is looking at the love of his life with unwavering faith.

*****

Meanwhile in Brindleton Bay

The clouds are breaking over the beach in Brindleton Bay as Rasmus runs home.

Martin can come by at any time and he’s actually a little curious about what’s on his mind. He sounded a little stressed on the phone yesterday.

At that moment, a small red airplane takes off from the airport in Del Sol Valley and heads for the coast.

Rasmus has just returned home when it reaches Brindleton Bay.

“We are now flying over Brindleton Bay. Was there something about you having a friend here?”

“Yes, Rasmus. He lives in the blue house on the left,” Don replies…. Right now he would happily get off the plane and spend time with Rasmus, regardless of his screaming babies.

Shortly afterwards, the plane passes over Rasmus’ blue house and continues over the beach below.

Ahead of them they now have Deadgrass Isle with the iconic lighthouse.

After they pass the island, all Don can see is a blue sky and an endless ocean. Will he ever find solid ground under his feet again?

******

Rasmus’ house is still planted firmly where it used to be.

Now Martin arrives and he looks really stressed.

There is no hint of a smile on his face as he turns his gaze towards the front door.

He touches his head and lets out a quiet moan.

Saying goodbye to Tusnelda was exactly as stressful and painful as he had promised himself it wouldn’t be.

He had a hard time keeping his composure and his feelings of anger and abandonment at bay.

He’s really trying to understand that her decision isn’t about rejecting him but about her need for solitude.

(or perhaps more precisely because she wants to repress the defeat over their failed attempt to expand their family, he thinks)….Stupid, unworthy thoughts….

He grabs his head hard as if to shut out his thoughts. It doesn’t work.

What about his needs?

He tries to be mature and calm but…”Fuck no!” he shouts loudly.

His sudden outburst catches Rasmus’ attention.

He sees Martin outside the door. He looks like a thundercloud.

“Hi Martin, you look like you need a good chat. Come in and sit down,” Rasmus says kindly.

Martin sits on the couch and Rasmus approaches while thoughtfully observing his posture.

It looks really bad.

“Women! What the hell do you need women for?” Martin hisses angrily.

Rasmus could probably come up with an idea or two, but he wisely refrains from making clever remarks.

“I assume you’re referring to a particular woman,” he says.

“Of course I do!” Martin shouts angrily.

“Now Tusnelda has got the crazy idea that the sight of me gives her depression, so she wants us to separate,” he says bitterly.

“Oh!?” Rasmus says in surprise.

“Does that mean you’re getting a divorce?” Rasmus says with a worried frown.

“No, we’re not getting a divorce, but Tusnelda says she needs some peace and quiet alone to sort out her thoughts,” Martin says sullenly.

“It sounds reassuring after all…Tusnelda is…well, how should I put it, pretty strong-willed when she gets an idea, but you two…you belong together, Martin,” Rasmus says with conviction.

“You should tell her,” Martin mutters.

“I should never, never have agreed to her having that fertility treatment. It made her sick…thank God she’s off the medication now,” Martin says angrily.

“There’s not much you can do about what’s already happened and hopefully there’s no lasting damage. Maybe she just needs some time to heal,” says Rasmus.

“Yes, I know that, Rasmus…and it’s not because I don’t want to give her that space..It’s just…I don’t know why I get so angry and feel so rejected,” Martin says more calmly.

“I guess you just need someone to take care of you and listen to your needs,” Rasmus suggests.

“Yes, you’re absolutely right Rasmus. Wow, you just did it for me,” Martin says, visibly relieved.

“Always my friend. I will always be there for you,” says Rasmus and gives Martin a big hug.

“Thank you Rasmus. You are truly a friend….What about you? How are you?”

“Well, you know. Izumi and I have quite a lot to do with the twins. Not to forget Fabio…he’s not a little boy anymore but still needs a lot of attention. We are busy, but still with our heads up and our feet down,”

“Yes, I can imagine that. Where is Izumi now?”

“She’s in the bedroom with the little ones. We can go in there if you want to say hello to her?”

When Martin enters the bedroom, he sees Izumi standing by the two cradles. He hasn’t seen Rasmus’ children yet and he doesn’t really know why? Maybe for selfish reasons, because he was afraid of being jealous?

“Hi Martin, it’s been a while,” Izumi smiles.

“Hi Izumi, I’m sorry I haven’t found time to visit you sooner.”

“Would you like to introduce me to your baby?” he asks kindly.

Izumi picks Sune up from the cradle…

“This is Sune, our son,” Izumi says, holding out the baby.

“He seems to be thriving,” Martin says kindly.

When Sune turns his gaze to Martin and smiles, he completely melts.

“Gosh he’s adorable. Really cute.”

“Well I’ll leave you two alone,” Martin says as Sune starts to cry.

“He’s just hungry so I’ll give him a bottle, but thanks Martin,” Izumi says gently. Like any mother, she melts for someone who praises her child.

When Martin turns around, he notices some pictures on the wall.

He recognizes the pictures from Izumi and Rasmus’s baby shower. It was a cheerful day. He and Tusnelda had just returned from their vacation in Chestnut Ridge.

He wished they could go there together again. She loved to ride and was quite good at it.

He sits next to Rasmus and they both sit and watch Izumi giving Sune a bottle.

For a while, neither of them says anything. It’s a peaceful sight.

“You know Rasmus, I suggested to Tusnelda that we could adopt a child…”

“There is an orphanage in Tartosa. I found it on the internet and these little children they are missing some parents and we are missing a child, so I suggested we send an application, but she doesn’t want to talk about it,” says Martin with a pained look.

“That sounds like a fantastic idea Martin. You know I adopted Fabio and for me there is no difference in how I feel as a father to any of the three kids….. Maybe Tusnelda just needs time to get used to the idea, since it didn’t originate in her head..”

“Yes, you’re right. She probably has a lot to process. She seems pretty stuck in the idea that a child is something you have to produce yourself, but I just want to be a father. I’ve always wanted to. Especially after I found her.”

“Maybe it feels different for a woman. After all, they are the ones who carry the child during pregnancy and in that context, the man’s contribution is quite modest.” says Rasmus.

“Yes, you could say that,” says Martin with a wry smile.

Now Izumi approaches. “What are you guys talking about?”

“You could say we’re talking about parenthood and life’s challenges in general,” Martin says, giving Rasmus a questioning look.

“Yeah, I’d say that too…so what are you going to do now?” Rasmus asks.

“I’m actually on my way to my friend Mike in Chestnut Ridge. He’s offered me a place to stay for a while so I’ve taken a leave of absence from work and will spend some time practicing horse riding and whatever else we can think of,” says Martin.

“It’s really great to travel and experience new places. Horse riding, that’s something I haven’t tried yet,” says Rasmus with interest.

“You’ll probably have to wait a little longer with that,” says Izumi and gives Rasmus a look.

“It was really nice of you to listen, Rasmus. I think it’s time for me to move on if I’m going to reach Chestnut Ridge before dark.”

“I’m glad if I could help you see things a little brighter, my friend.”

“I’ll follow you to the door,” Rasmus says as they stand up.

*****

“Well Martin, I hope you have an exciting trip after all. Horseback riding is something I still need to explore, but who knows what the future holds.”

“I’m about to say that fortunately no one does,” Martin answers seriously.

“Rasmus, will you keep an eye on her? It will comfort me to know that someone is nearby.”

“Of course Martin. I promise you.”

“Well, then I’ll say goodbye and thank you for your your concerned companionship.”

“That’s what friends are for. Goodbye my friend,” Rasmus says, giving Martin a bear hug.

This means that Martin is finally ready to leave Brindleton Bay and his familiar life for a long time. Who knows what the future holds for his journey.

*****

After Martin has left, Rasmus sits down next to Izumi on the edge of the bed. He sits in his own thoughts as he puts an arm around her shoulder.

“I’m so sorry Martin and Tusnelda are struggling with those problems. Will they be okay?” she asks quietly.

“Yeah, I guess so,” Rasmus sighs.

Then he looks straight into Izumi’s eyes.

“I hope you never feel the urge to separate like that, because you feel like rethinking life,” he says seriously.

“Now you’re silly Rasmus. As if I want to be left alone with two minor kids and a preteen boy. I’m going to collapse from exhaustion before a week has passed,” she says with a wry smile.

“Well, our lives seem to be governed by their whims and rules, but no matter how much I would love to travel the world, I choose to stay here with my family,” he concludes.

“As I choose you,” she replies, giving him a kiss.

*****

Afternoon at Tail’s End in Brindleton Bay

We are still in Brindleton Bay, but in a completely different neighborhood far from the beach in Cavalier Cove. During the afternoon the sun chases away the last clouds.

Here Elijah, Fatima and the real estate agent Dan meet to inspect yet another house. A building that, according to Dan, should live up to a millionaire’s dream. As he describes it as read from a brochure, “Far from the bustle of the dockyards, this secluded lot still has plenty of that harbor charm.”

Elijah is the first to enter through the building’s grand entrance doors. He stops and looks up in amazement at the blue sky he can see above the entrance’s skylight.

Fatima walks past him to look at the large kitchen and dining area in front of her.

“I think our entire apartment could easily fit in the square footage of this kitchen, Elijah,” she says.

Elijah quickly follows her to see for himself.

“May I point out that this part of the living room, which is furnished with a sofa group, has a fireplace? Yes, as you can see, there is even room for a grand piano,” Dan interjects, without him getting the expected reaction.

Elijah, who as a musician should be excited about the space for a grand piano, only gives it a cursory glance. He is overwhelmed.

They move from the kitchen down a side hallway that leads to three bedrooms, a bathroom with a washer and dryer column, and an exit door that leads to a greenhouse outside.

Light streams in everywhere through large windows.

Dan leads them to the largest bedroom at the end of the hall.

“That’s the master bedroom with the bathroom right next to it,” Dan says.

“I love the red color on the wall. It must ignite some nice hot dreams,” Fatima says.

Well Fatima, certainly when it comes to you and Elijah 😏

Fatima chooses the door leading to the greenhouse and walks down a flight of stairs to an enclosed sunken courtyard.

Elijah takes the route back through the kitchen and living room until he finds a staircase leading to the basement floor.

They meet each other. in a huge TV room with a giant TV on the wall.

Fatima looks at a sofa that looks more like an art installation than a comfortable piece of furniture….”A lot of green… ,” she murmurs

“There’s a bar… and water outside the windows? For what purpose?” Elijah says in surprise.

“I think it’s to prevent unwelcome peeping through the windows…You can arrange wicked mermaid orgies or a secret tavern without being disturbed,” laughs Fatima.

“Fatima, please control your unbridled thoughts,” Elijah says with a shocked look followed by a twinkle in his eye.

They have Dan right on their heels again as they move from the banquet hall (which Fatima has humorously named the TV room) to a large gym.

“Well, there’s certainly room for a lot of equipment here,” says Elijah.

“Notice the swimming pool on the other side of the windows,” says Dan.

So there is a purpose, Elijah thinks.

They go out into the atrium courtyard again. On their right is a smaller apartment. For servants or rental. They skip its viewing for now.

They move up to the ground floor again.

Dan leads them back past the sofa group and the grand piano that Elijah has finally spotted.

A staircase leads up to the sunroom.

The sunroom has huge windows on three sides of the room.

One side overlooks the marina where several expensive yachts lie side by side, revealing the neighbors’ income base.

Fatima looks around, speechless. The view of the bay and the nearby forest is breathtaking.

The real estate agent watches their excitement expectantly. “I couldn’t help but hear you miss a studio, Elijah.”

“I’m a photographer and not a painter, so I need to be able to set my own light,” he answers.

A piece of information that is probably discouraging for Dan, even though the house contains a lot of basement rooms almost left in darkness.

Elijah moves closer to the view of the bay. Right now, a descending evening sun casts a beautiful light on the cloudless sky.

“Well what do you say Fatima? A lot to take in, right?”

Fatima stands silent as she considers her answer.

“I’d say let’s go home and talk this through,” Elijah says.

“I need to use the bathroom before we leave,” she replies.

Fatima goes down to the ground floor to find the bathroom.

She finds a very futuristic toilet in red and gold, with all sorts of light signals.

The sink and shower are in the same color scheme. Even the towel racks and faucets are gold.

It seems like an excessive luxury and It makes her feel like a stranger. It almost makes her miss Elijah’s ugly old black bathroom.

*****

After the tour, they sit with Dan on the terrace of the house.

“Well, that’s all I have to show you for today,” Dan says with an apologetic gesture.

“We have been completely satisfied with your tours, they have been very inspiring,” says Fatima welcomingly.

Elijah clears his throat loudly. “What’s the price for this property?”

“This property is currently listed for 199,500. simoleons. That’s a really nice price for a house of these exclusive building materials, but I think the current owner might be open to negotiation.”

Dan takes a short pause before continuing… “As I told you the other day, the house in Windenburg costs 21,375. It needs a little paint, and I would recommend new kitchen units, so it’s ready for you to move in.”

“It sounds like we have a lot to consider…I think we’ve seen what we need to know today, ” Fatima says to Elijah.

“Yes, I think so…”

“Just one last thing before we part ways. Would it be possible to build a photo studio as an extension to the house in Windenburg? In that case, how much would it cost and what would you suggest?” says Elijah.

“I know some building designers I can recommend. I’ll ask them to calculate a price if you choose to bid on the house. I’d estimate that for 25-30,000 simoleons we could do a decent project,” Dan replies.

As if to put a final trump card on the tour of the magnificent home, Dan shows them the swimming pool that runs along the side of the house outside the TV room.

“Well, a swimming pool is certainly nice to have,” Elijah says, looking around. There’s not much privacy, not even a hedge to block out prying eyes.

After Dan says goodbye to them, they stand for a while, reflecting on the day’s impressions.

Elijah looks at Fatima. “I actually think Dan behaved very professionally without being pushy, so luckily I didn’t need my earplugs.”

“I agree, but that house Elijah…it feels more like a palace than a home. I’m telling you, the toilets had gold faucets!.. I know you’re a millionaire, but…well…”

“You don’t have to convince me, Fatima. Everything points to the house in Windenburg. Let’s contact Dan, tomorrow or during the week, to see what he can suggest for an extension.”

*****

Author’s note: I’m finally back after a long summer break. I’m so excited to continue the story. I finished this chapter for this time, without the familiar sparks that often end a chapter. However, I think Elijah and Fatima have been more than sufficiently stimulated for today.

The house was built by me a long time ago for a completely different purpose. It has never been shared in the Gallery because unfortunately it was never fully completed. Some trees make it impossible to find a distance that shows the building in its full width.

A note on Valentino’s airplane. I apologize for my rather primitive attempt at building a cockpit. I was faced with a choice between trying to create something more realistic or choosing the large windows that gave a better view of the landscape. I chose to prioritize the latter.

In the next chapter, Martin arrives at Chestnut Ridge and if the plane doesn’t crash over the ocean, Don and Valentino will land in the jungle of Selvadorada.

I want to dedicate this song to Martin. I think it definitely captures the mood he is in right now. At the same time, it gives me an excuse to pay tribute to one of the greatest singers of my time who made a difference in the world just by her very being.

Enjoy ❤️

*****

Credit:

The Airport Cafe & Space Park is built by marjia. It has been rebuilt by me for the purpose of the story. It can be found in the gallery.

*****