CLOSURE.

LOCATION: At Malia’s Birthday ─ Descano Beach Club

DATE & TIME: May 15th at 10:30 p.m.

Glow Party. The theme of Malia’s birthday party slash celebration of twenty years in the gaming industry causes a gashing wave of memories from her sophomore at Stanford. Remembering when an unexpected yet alluring invitation slide through the crack of Nicole and her’s apartment on the Monday eve of their finals week. For weeks, both girls were noses deep in their textbooks since being biology majors was no joke. Re-learning the function and characteristics of the living organism while having to endure unimaginable hours of calculus, as they were walking corpses around campus due to the exhaustion riding over them. The pair of them have always been determined souls and if they planned on passing the semester with flying colors, it meant grinding until they got the results they wanted and nothing else. Through their determination, they achieved precisely that and decided to celebrate it the only way possible ─ at the Glow Party.

Dressed in their best fluorescent gears, which makes it all more comical that they just happened to have these items lying around, and boyfriend in tow, the dynamic four went to the warehouse located right on the edge of Stanford’s campus and celebrated the evening away. Everything from the successful academic year to all of the memories they made each other further cemented the unbreakable bond. As it felt suitable for their last hoorah before going their opposites ways. The paint would stick with them as the friends waved goodbye to Stanford, to each other, but not forever. 

And this is what Geo recollects when the invitation found her mailbox early in the week. Not only will it be an incredible time to bring Malia her gifts from Mexico, which she expected to visit once landing, but the issue with Tucker’s estate with Westwood gripped her mind at once. But, better than never, making sure to make up for the brief interlude with a few other presents: Taxco Silvery Jewelry, a plethora of Mexican Candy from a Dulceria, a matching huipil with Tahlia, monthly wine subscription, and lastly, one of a kind custom embroidered blanket of a portrait Georgina had of Malia, Tahj, and Tahlia from Asher’s birthday party. 

It’s a lot, but it wouldn’t be Georgina if she didn’t pull out all of the necessary stops to make someone feel important ─ especially on their big day. 

So, she sets the many presents on the gift table near the entrance, decked head to toe in a white romper from Neiman Marcus that enhances her vacation tan, with Common Projects and currently colored caramelized locks into a high ponytail. Only taking the petite woman a moment to scan over the surroundings before hazel hues fall on the birthday girl, feet already on the move to greet her. “Malia!” Silvery falsetto greets with the utmost enthusiasm, pulling the other into the biggest hug possible as she swayed them side to side. “Happy birthday, gorgeous. Thank you for inviting me because I thought you were teasing me for a second,” she winks playfully. 

“Isn’t that the truth?” Gabriel says knowingly, too knowingly. Asher and Joanna held a special place in his heart. He didn’t just see himself as a uncle to them, or as a godfather as he was to Joanna, he saw himself as something more. He knew he had that privilege the moment he held them in his arms and promised to love them no matter what. He was plenty aware that they were her sister’s children, but somehow, both of them carried a vital part of him inside, they had an undeniable grip on Gabriel and he was not shy about it. He had never fancied himself being that important to someone other than her parents and her sisters. He had never thought someone could own him so much until they came into the world. Since then he had dropped everything to be at their side no matter what, going from taking some time off from golfing to be there by Georgina’s side when she needed time after their birth, all the way to attending recitals and school plays had he been on the island or not. They had grown up in a family where it wasn’t upsetting to tell the other how much they were loved or how proud they were and Gabriel was plenty aware how lucky he was for that. It was only fair that Asher and Joanna experienced the same.

It was because of them that Gabriel knew how much he wanted to go past the cool uncle status and become a father. Someday, down the line. He thought he had it all figured out with Rebecca. He thought he had his forever right there and nothing would ever come between the two of them. Being left right before the ceremony had stung him deeply in ways he pushed the idea of love behind for a long time, refusing to move on and moping around in ways that was very un-Gabriel-like. He focused on his job and it was kind of ridiculous how the brief moment he had away from Rebecca had signaled his best numbers so far. Still, he didn’t want to work for the rest of his life. After Rebecca, he knew that at some point, he just wanted to be like his father, take a seat back to an amazing woman and raise his kids. As many as he could have with the agreement of his future wife. It was a dream he still held onto, shamefully so, but he didn’t say as out loud nowadays as he used to say back when Rebecca was still in his life. So, with the prospect of real children out of the equation for now, company was still needed and Archie and Mason came to be.

“I don’t count her as defeated though,” he told his sister, observing her as she did her thing. It had always amazed her how she managed to almost hypnotize the animals, it truly showed that she was in the right field, although he had absolutely no doubt she would have made an amazing doctor had she chosen to stick to the human medical field. “There was a Cocker Spaniel there, Lady, her name, I almost got her because of your daughter, I’m sure I’ll revisit the idea if I ever move somewhere bigger and in a few years she’ll be able to twist me around just like she does nowadays,” thought the thought of his Jojo growing up was something he kept pushed to the back of his mind. It was so weird how Archie had become absolutely still while Georgina did her thing, even Mason had stopped playing with the small elephant plush toy Gabriel had got for them when he went by the pet store with Marion the other day. Georgina’s words did not come as a surprise. Gabriel smiled and nodded his head along. “I know, I know Georgie, you are sorely mistaken if I’m not gonna call you directly if I feel something’s wrong, but,” he emphasized, “I’m hoping for two strong buds who will only need their check ups and vaccines and stuff like that. No offense, but I’m hoping I wont need you for anything other than looking how adorable they are,” he punctuated his sentence with a kiss to Mason’s head.

He hated how his sister’s expression shifted once Tucker was mentioned. Gabriel never had the easiest relationship with him, but attempted to respect him while he was married to his sister, because Geo had always been able to take care of herself, and also because if it wasn’t for him, his nephew and niece wouldn’t be around, but now there was absolutely no holding back. He was angry at what he was still making her go through. It was unnecessary and just downright shitty. He nodded at her words, in agreement with her decision. “I would burn it down, if you ask me, might be rather cathartic,” he joked with a small smile. “Hey—” Gabriel nudged his sister’s foot with his much bigger one. “It’s the right decision, okay? Not that you need me to say it or anything, but you shouldn’t even be having to make it. The kids have no attachment to that property and it doesn’t even add in your life, so get rid of it and use the money for something better, something for you,” he pointed out. They all had money to last them beyond years, Johnathan and Sylvie made sure to help them build their own success, but Gabriel wasn’t dumb to think that they wouldn’t leave them with a hefty trust fund after their passing. It was just who they were, they took care of their kids first, just like Geo did with hers. “How about an island? Or a boat? A train? Maybe a plane?” He wiggled his eyebrows trying to snap their conversation back to a happier place. “How are things with Sebastian going, by the way? Did you see him again?”

☼

Each time Geo sees Gabe with the kids or how highly he speaks about them, a pool of gaiety and sorrow overtakes her petite frame. Happiness in the frequent sights of her brother clearing his schedule to spend with Asher and Joanna, as he always is willing to extend a helping hand toward his sister. She doesn’t have to say it out loud, but being a single parent, while keeping a steady head, does overwork her to the point of exhaustion. Just when the mother begins to find herself overwhelmed or in need of a moment, her brother senses the feeling as he sweeps in like superman ─ even if it meant the kids overruled the afternoon with pouty faces and pleads. Aware how much it must ache her brother not to be on the opposing end and getting a chance to experience these moments with his own kids. He may not say it openly or let it consume him wholly, though she has always been one to pick up on the signals without verbal clarification. It can be noted in the occasional sadness that courses his azure hues, witnessing others settle down and achieve their happily ever after. It drills her numb to see how ready and committed he was to Rebecca ─ who never deserved him in the first place.

Yet, someone will. Who, in particular? No one comes to Geo’s mind at the moment, but the universe has an amusing way of playing games on someone. If Sebastian, though the former pair of lovers are just friends, the returned presence in her life brings peculiar comfort and interactions because of Gianna and Joanna’s attached at the hip nature. So if this minuscule thing can happen to her and pull a sort of an uplifting response of her post-mortem still haunting her, there’s hope something will happen for Gabe. Perhaps it’s right in front of his nose and two eyes. A familiar being, technically unfamiliar in knowing about them, as they accept him whole: whoever it is, and however he ends up finding this light at the end of the tunnel, the honey-kissed brunette will accept her brother’s decision like there’s no tomorrow. Just as Geo has done in the last thirty-four years, the other has been around as her undying loyalty and support will always lie with the family.

As her conscience parts from its beelined focus of Archie, who’s breathtaking in all regards but specifically in his obedient stance as his aunt slash veterinarian takes control, her head pivots in the direction of Gabe with the famous Livingston dimple presenting itself. “Hey, if you keep this spoiling up, not only will she’ll refuse to come to me, but you’re going to put mom out of a title.” Liveliness scattered in the form of her falsetto enters their surroundings, just as she begins to check into Archie’s ears and nostrils. “But Lucy the Cocker Spaniel must be amazing, huh?” Beam fastened tightly, a part of her is swooning at the dynamic her brother has with both kids is something she’ll always cherish. It’s authentic in its nature and wholesome in how he retells the stories of their well-spent outings. “And please, I know how much you adore Jojo, so I appreciate you withholding from adopting three dogs. It must’ve been hard, but she’ll come begging for something else in no time,” she confesses in a laugh. Just like the time where Joanna insisted on not one, but two, matching American Girl dolls ─ one she keeps either at home and drags it over to Gabby’s and the other planted firm at Gabe’s, in which has given her countless frights over the years. Her secured, glistening array on mouth petals to widen not only at her brother knowing she’ll drop everything for his new pets, but specifically due to the childhood nickname that’s stuck through time. “I just have to remind you. Not like there are any other veterinarian on the island, but want you to know that you have, and will never be, a burden, alright?” Finalizing her stern point with a pointed expression before it turns flat.

It’s taken her years of therapy, hopefulness as each day passes, and the undying support of her family, to get through this never-ending hurdle. Soon enough, as this chapter closes, she’ll finally have a chance to take a moment and see what’s next in her story. Right now, careful hues examine Archie as she does a spinal examination, digits gently in their touch to make sure everything feels aligned without the need for a machine. If it weren’t for her brother and his way of cracking jests up and down the block, she would’ve been allowing intrusive thoughts to swallow her whole. “Arson and Livingston’s in the same sentence? Now, I never thought I would hear this before,” she mocks jokingly, as hues eventually find his. A soft smile illuminates at his affirming remarks of her decision, aware the outcome of this situation has no other option than selling. Neither one of the kids know, let alone remember Tucker, to the point where this estate would be helpful for them. He’s merely an image that came and went as he pleased. “Thank you, you have no idea how much I needed to hear it,” she utters, lifting a hand to his shoulder to give him a firm squeeze. Fleeting in wholly moment, she laughs, not opposed to the options but seeing this profit as an opportunity to help out Asher and Joanna in the future. “Thinking about putting some money into the kid’s college funds,” she hums outwardly, “Maybe offer some to help Mom remodel Carmichael Roses. She’s been talking a lot about making adjustments so that it would be a nice contribution.” Or so, she thinks, maybe even willing to make it an early mother’s day gift for Sylvie. Indeed, it will gather a tear or twenty from their mother, in which she deserves nothing but the best.

“As for Sebastian and I,” she pauses abruptly, feeling a tingle in the back of her throat because it’s peculiar to mention him in a sentence once again, “I’ve seen him here and there over the months. Mostly at Twinkle Toes because Gianna and Joanna are connected.” To a degree, in the beginning, stages of their young girls connecting, the entire situation made it intolerable. However, it’s something she can’t dismiss because it would be interrupting her daughter’s happiness ─ and this is the last thing she’ll ever want to wreck. “But, we’ve been good.” A shrug, unaware of what else to say because it’s been relatively mundane lately. “Nothing juicy, so if that’s what you were trying to pull something out, I could easily ask you how it feels to soon be on splattered all over these magazines because of your business proposition with Cleo Halliwell.”

It’s not like she meant to disappear.

It’s not like she meant to go three weeks with her phone off and completely disconnected from the world.

It pained her that she had worried anyone. The screaming concern written on Georgina’s features is enough for her to feel the recognizable sinking on the pit of her stomach, making her feel bad about everything that had transpired, and incredibly unworthy at the same time. 

She didn’t deserve this. She didn’t want this.

If people didn’t care about her, just how easier things would have been?

The past three weeks were a blur in the blonde’s mind. She had been careless to the point where she had promised herself never to be. Where she had been and who she had been with were questions as unanswerable as where do we come from and where do we go to. She had walked away from the hospital that Monday and at the same time, Lydia had walked away from herself. It almost angered her that other people felt entitled to feel worried about her, about her life, and her well-being. It didn’t make sense. What was about her that was so important? So vital to their lives? What was about her that made her earn a spot inside their mind, no matter how small? What was it about her that others saw and her mother had never seen?

Lydia had grown up under the tutelage of someone who should never have been considered fit for parenthood. She couldn’t remember a time where Thomas Beckett had been gentle towards her, or her sisters for that matter. He was angry, he was violent, and he knew all too well how to show it. Lydia had survived up until she was 18. Hiding away in Eleanor’s house or the school when she needed safe spaces to be. Hoping to get home after Thomas had slept so she could walk him by and pretend she was never home to begin with. She considered so many times to just pack her bags and leave, but who would she belong to if she did that? She excused a lot of his mistakes for the genetic bond that bound them together and the fact that Catherine had left them both. She never told anyone because she was aware that most people would feel it to be wrong, but he looked kind when he slept. Without a worry inside his busy brain and no trace of the nasty alcohol on him. People wouldn’t understand that in those small moments, she really did feel as if she had a father, so she never told them. Now, the blood that Lydia used to think to bind them together, didn’t exist anymore and in its place, left a gaping hole of what ifs, and what could have beens.

On April 13th she had woken up inside the dingy motel room she occupied without a trace of memory inside her mind. A small, blissful window where nothing had changed. Where the man in the hospital was still her father. Where she hadn’t already said terrible things to other people, or behaved lousily because she had been so filthy drunk she had lost control. She didn’t have that anymore. Every single ounce of control she thought to have conquered over the years was now all gone. Everything. Gone. Just like she wanted to be. How could she explain that to anyone?

She recognized Georgina’s tone. She pressed her lips together and instead of speaking anything, Lydia nodded at the question. Technically she had been sleeping, it wasn’t a lie, she just couldn’t remember when it was the last time she had winked for longer than an hour or two before nightmares took over. Trauma was a funny thing, wasn’t it? Her life had been going in a straight line and it only took one curveball to make it all go array. Lydia chewed on the inside of her cheek, wanting to look anywhere but the woman’s hazel hues. This wasn’t the time nor the place to be breaking down all over Georgina, after all, her kids were there, and if she did, Lydia didn’t think she would ever be able to look them in the eyes, ever again. “It’s fine, I’m fine,” she repeated, assuring, echoing her own thoughts and wishes. She just wanted to be fine. Lydia put her now shaking hands inside of the pockets of her coat, wanting desperately for Georgina to believe her words, but thinking it to be next to impossible. “I– I’ve been having a little trouble sleeping, but it’s nothing too serious, just a restless writer’s brain,” the blonde shrugged, hoping that would take the importance away from the whole ordeal. After all, it would hardly be the first time she lost sleep over something.

Georgina was kind to worry, but she also didn’t need. She shouldn’t have. She had the her whole world wrapping their small arms around her legs. It was a world where Lydia didn’t belong. She smiled at the brunette’s remark, but it was a dull and unflattering smile. Lydia felt far from the sunshine she deemed the brunette in front of her to be. Far from a shining constellation too. At that moment she felt almost as heavy as a rock and as dull as one too, without any of the benefits. “Something like that,” she tried, not even bothering to sell the lie, because they both could see it in Lydia’s eyes that she had not let anyone have it. The moment they were sharing was making her feel so vulnerable, the blonde needed to take another step back, just to give some more space between the two of them, but also took it as a chance to look at Joanna when she had spoken.

It pained to see Joanna so hidden behind her mother’s legs, just like Asher was now. Lydia didn’t have that many interactions with them, actually going over Georgina’s place very few times compared to their weekly encounter at Carmichael Roses for morning yoga sessions and coffee or green juice after. The times she had met with the two of them, however, were happy times. Joanna had once said she looked just like Cinderella, Elsa or Sleeping Beauty in the Disney movies, because of her blonde hair, constrasting Georgina’s Belle looks and her Snow White or Anna, though that had ensued a whole long debate over which princess was the very best and they had settled for Moana, even though they had soon talked it over and decided that maybe Moana shouldn’t be considered in the same level as the others, she was definitely a level more because she didn’t need a prince, and didn’t even marry. Asher was a whole other deal, he always talked to her freely, but once or twice he had blushed and it took Lydia a longer time to get him to warm up. She wasn’t a stranger to taking care of kids, she did take care of Declan, after all, and the mere sight of Asher and Joanna made her want to know how the boy was. She called in with Holly every once in a while, she knew she needed to come back to work sooner rather than later, she just didn’t know if she was ready to resume her life right now.

“She did?” Fuck, she remembered now. She had missed Geo’s birthday entirely. She knew there was something important she had been forgetting, but with her phone off, she didn’t have access to her schedule, she had noted there, to buy Geo’s present, and she had never did. In fact, money was already running low as she had refused to let Holly pay for her leave since she was taking longer than she had expected to. Lydia didn’t crouch to speak to Joanna, fearing that the young girl would smell the alcohol in the clothes and in her breath, that was something she hoped the young brunette would never be exposed to, but the same way her interaction with Joanna had started, it had soon ended when Georgina confirmed her daughter’s words. “You— uhm— you really didn’t have to, Geo,” it wasn’t her to dismiss, and she truly hoped that Georgina wasn’t expecting her to go and pick it up now. “Did you guys have fun? Was Mexico any better than Catalina?” Firing questions was the best way she thought at keeping questions from turning to her as she knew Georgina want to. “I-I’m sorry I didn’t call, I do have your present back at home and I didn’t know you’d be back by now, otherwise I’d have gone to give it to you.”

Lie.

☼

Observing the blonde like there’s no tomorrow further inflicts suffering to the brunette in ways Geo’s entire evening post this conversation will cause her to eat herself alive. Scenarios will play in her conscience as her body remains still in the California King Bed over what she should’ve said, or had done, to avoid the pricking disconnection. It would’ve been easy without the kids nearby, but a public setting brings the potential of wandering hues. So one would’ve expected the hug to finalize everything. To soothe the wounds, for another soul to feel comfortable, or the unspoken words to indicate they aren’t alone ─ as it’s what worked on her in the past.

Though, not everyone is or like Georgina Livingston. A grown woman with a relatively stable head over her upbringing years and with a family known for loving and supporting each other infinitely, as they would never allow her to tread down any journey alone. After all, Gabriel changed his whole training schedule to be at her bedside when the depths of hell and her postpartum turned mundane tasks like getting up to shower into an unbearable chore. Or when Gabby moved back, without hesitation, the second time around when the news of Tucker’s pass light up the other’s iPhone. They always had each other as neither of the siblings went to bed pitted with worry that one day, their bloodlines would disconnect from them entirely.

The Livingston’s wouldn’t be able to function without each other. It would be the sight of a fish panting for air, their lifeline, as they harbored a laying position on the sandy-cream beaches of Catalina. It would overall be worrisome.

So, while she knows and is indebted for the effortless and loving upbringing of her life, it’s something she never wants to shame others for not having. It doesn’t make her a better person than the next. But, it has taught her kindness and the importance of seeing things from someone else’s point of view. Even if she doesn’t know the big picture of Lydia’s upbringing before brief mentions, scattered here and there throughout their time spent together, some remarks about her mother, twin sisters, and their father ─ which the thought of the latter causes a lightbulb to go off in her conscience, hazel optics widening to the size of a tennis ball, as everything in her goes still and ponderous.

In the first couple of days, she asked about Thomas until things on her behalf began to tenant themselves in Georgina’s entire being and functionality. Does she, of all people, feel like an idiot for potentially missing the sign and the information that sat right in front of her. The blonde informed her about the elder man being in the hospital, but nothing in the amplitude of positivity or blithe radiating off the other. It would’ve been painfully obvious, just like it’s clear there’s something, and if it means she’ll have to reach, then she’ll do it. In the comfort of a safe space, not in public, though, since all four of them are planted in the middle of the sidewalk, patrons wandering right past them as peripheral vision alerts her. And for the first time, in another uncomfortable quietude that settled between statements, does her nurturing falsetto say something: “Ly,” Speaking up, though her voice is trembling like an infant learning to walk for the first time, “I’m an idiot. I forgot that your father was in the hospital. Or is.”

A breath in and out, focusing carefully on the action as it happens correctly in comparison to her half-assed effort lately ─ or, at least, how it felt. “I’m so sorry,” Geo says, unaware if she’s right or just getting ahead of herself. It will only be a matter of time until she knows where the nose hit the point early on. “I hope everything is okay. I meant to send flowers before the trip to Mexico, but everything got ahead of me.” Her own complications of clearing Tucker’s estate in Westlake being one of them. But, the details are kept to herself since this isn’t about her. It’s about the young blonde, a soul that has so much ahead of her and a passion that deserves to be showcased with the entire world, just like Geo witnesses every time they hang out with each other. The brunette couldn’t deny the sight of excellency in front of her and how she’d drop the entire world for Lydia just to see her happy again.

Over and over again, feeling like one of her many purposes in this world is to safeguard Lydia and to remind people they are lovable, regardless of how others treated them in the past.

Though the doe-eyed, azure indistinguishable image of Georgina has untwined itself from the leg she clung to, as merriment drips in the form of innocence and utter relief to be sharing these details. If Joanna only would know, or be aware, of the intensity currently unfolding between her mother and the blonde opposite of them. But, they’re just kids and already witnessed a passing in their life ─ as their relationship with Tucker has always been nonexistent. The last thing she wants to do is ruin the delight of the surprise or see her daughter pick up on anything else. So, without missing a step and a forced laugh, the marginally older woman begins, “I did…” Peeping down at Joanna, who makes eye contact with her mother’s multi-toned rims before holding up an index finger to initiate a correction will soon arriving. Mom, no, we did! Remember that cute store in the hotel, that’s where we got Lydia’s present! Before getting a chance to retort playfully, a forceful action that reminds her of the interaction she had months ago with Sebastian, Joanna’s attention pivots itself and says all too sweetly ─ making it clear Gabriel is rubbing off on her: You know, I have to remind her because of her age.

“Alright, it’s clear my brother is rubbing off on her.” It is amusing because her siblings have been picking at her fortieth birthday, which isn’t until next year. Nonetheless, it deems necessary to jump right into the conversation because if her daughter continues, they’ll be stuck here all evening, and nothing will get handled, especially the nagging feeling residing in her stomach about what the fuck is going on with Lydia. Taking a second to clear her throat and smile softly at her familiar companion, she nods foremost. “It only felt right. Hopefully, it will be something you can use or think about all three of us when we got a couple of days without seeing each other,” saccharine falsetto says with a tilt of her head, still in its observing state. “Because we love and care about you.” As it’s evident by how, even in the distance of a trip, the blonde holds a lasting impression. “But yes, the trip was everything and more,” she says in a relatively simple response, aware if they had more time, then Georgina would go into detail about everything they did and saw.

Plans rather casually made, for an activity that will be anything less than casual at its outset, Rachel nods.  “That sounds great.  Adam will be at Rory’s no later than three, so I’m free any time after that.  It’ll give me time to finish a project proposal I’ve been working on.” 

While she wasn’t unsure about the decision to get Adam a phone, only needing to discuss it and to figure out how to manage the cost with Rory before taking action, Georgina’s agreement provides validation Rachel appreciates.  “At the very least I’d need to do that so he doesn’t lose the thing.”  She shakes her head.  “My sister would never, but that could also be if I were the one asking.  Besides, it would take the fun out of the game we play when we need to track her down for something important to someone but herself.”

Like when their mom died, for example.   Unsure if Geo knows the source of her rancor toward her sister, though, Rachel cuts the subject off with a hasty sip of wine.  She wasn’t even great about leaning on Rory, her husband in those delicate days.  It’s possible her private grief didn’t spread, and she has no intention of putting it out into the atmosphere now.  

Instead, she diverts firmly onto a more present, if not more pleasant, topic.  “Maybe,” she echoes, any notes of optimism falling flat even as she offers a smile.  “But that’s the best possible thing you can do for me.  Things like this.  Thanks for coming tonight, and for letting Adam entertain your kids.” 

☼

Rather than responding, the nonverbal response of a nod comes from Georgina’s behalf, feeling as the finalization serves well for another sip of her wine. Then, finally, lifting the crystalline highball glass resting in her possession for a celebratory cheer. Given this commemoration had been already happened, their mommy timeout is being used well to their advantage: discussing things that would be challenging to do over a phone or with wandering child ears around, granting them the chance to relish in a free moment. They needed this. Hell, everyone needs this time just to let go and let loose. The older one gets, the harder it is to stop the gears from turning.

Finalizing up on her sip as she returns it to the cup holder, a chuckle escapes, and mirth is immediate in suit to settle on her features. “Trust me; it’s a miracle sent from above,” she relives the peace of mind that stimulates on her behalf. Otherwise, she’d be a pool of anxiety and never-ending worry, which potentially happens all too often as it is. “It makes me wonder a lot how we went without such invention before? Given phones weren’t as expensive back then, so it wouldn’t eat away at someone too much if your flip phone or sidekick just happened to land in the ocean and you witness a Titanic moment with a phone,” A peal of laughter graces their atmosphere, speaking from first-hand experience, of course.

However, the shift to Rachel’s sister, a particular enigma in her multitoned rims over the years, causes her initial to be a hum followed by a nod. “It makes sense,” Stating firstly in a quiet tone, feeling like it isn’t a viable response as the moments settle. “I can understand how it wouldn’t appeal to others. Feels like people are constantly watching you.” She comes to reason with avoiding the most assumptions on the sister’s dynamic because if Rach wants to talk, regardless of how long it’s been, then a shoulder will be there for the other to lean on ─ as it’s the first thing the brunette learned about the strawberry blonde when Rory introduced them.

But, gratitude is an immediate pick-up as she beams like a child on Christmas morning. “Hey, it’s the least I can do,” she appreciates cheerfully, making it evident time spend with the other is one she’d never take for granted. “Before these nights, I didn’t know I needed a moment just to sit back and relax. We both know I don’t know what it’s like to take a break and catch my breath, so it does me wonders too.” For which, her family would be proud of her for being a human instead of a robot ─ as even robots need rest and repeats. Still beaming, she says next: “I’m so glad too. He’s making a real impact on Asher about these comics, you know?” She glances over at the other. “Finally, having a safe space to talk about it with someone other than Rory because you won’t believe it, one of the rude-ass PTA moms kids called it nerdy.”

Rory [12.28AM]: If this is your way of saying I'm more spellbinding than a beautiful resort in Mexico I'll take it.

Rory [12.28AM]: So, no, not crazy, just a woman of taste.

Rory [12.32AM]: Instant is debatable. I'm sure there's a bit of a lag between here and there. Internet bandwidth... connectivity issues... or something.

Rory [12.34AM]: Which is also my way of saying come back soon, because I still need to get you a present. STAT!

Geo [12.36AM]: I suppose that's ONE way to see it, and if that's going to help you sleep for the next five days I'm away, then by means see it as such.

Geo [12.41AM]: Might be so, I think? The 5G from Verizon is a win, but the minute I get into the room, connect to the internet, and go anywhere near by rooms closet it starts to act up. I don't know. I'm not device genius.

“It’s a gift.” Vivi shrugged as a smirk laced her lips. She took a sip of her water, happy that she met another person that felt as passionately about their work and place in this world as she did. It felt good to know that there were people like that out in the world. She let out a breath of relief. While her and Geo’s situations with sharing their kids wasn’t exactly the same, Vivi could definitely see the similarities. “You have dogs?” she asked, brightening a bit again. Vivi had always been a huge dog lover. She had them as pets since she was a young girl. It always amazed her that no matter how long she was away at school, her dogs still remembered and loved spending time with her when she was in America. “Those are precious names. We had three dogs before the divorce. I have Allegra, our Yorkie. Philip got the two Lab brothers we had named Bass and Treble.” Her blue eyes casted down briefly. She knew he loved the dogs too, but wondered if it was her punishment for getting primary custody of their children. 

Her eyebrow rose softly as Geo asked where she had been her entire life. “Around the world in eighty plus days.” she smirked, rolling her eyes at her own lame attempt at a joke. “Hm, Asher sounds like my Peyton. He is the one that wants to know all the information before getting into something and he was the same way with the Marvel Universe. He wanted to read every comic there was before watching any movie. Presley, he’s impulsive and just wants to get to the bottom of things so, naturally, we had to secretly watch the movies while Peyton was asleep until Vee gave us away by saying Avengers assemble.” she chuckled softly. Victoria picked up on things very quickly which Vivi knew would be a blessing and curse as she got older. “I feel as though Asher and Peyton would make great friends though. I hope they have more opportunities to hang around each other.” Was it her lame attempt to get her son more friends? Yes, yes it was. Maybe now she understood how her mother and grandmother felt about her when she was younger. 

“No just Kitty, but we’re all named French names. My grandmother’s family is from France and England, but she claims mostly France for status reasons I believe.” Vivi frowned thinking of her paternal grandmother. They had always been at each other’s throats. She was glad that her grandfather never let it get too far. She knew it would get ugly on both sides. “Well good for you for breaking the cycle.” she teased tipping her clear glass to Geo teasingly. “Phil and I had agreed that the boys would be Ps and the girls would be Vs. So we had the twins and I had always loved the name Peyton and Presley was kind of a thing of ours. We got married by Elvis Presley in Vegas so that’s where his name came from. When I found out I was having a girl, he wanted to change and have all the kids have P names. He actually wanted to call Vee, Philomena which I instantly vetoed because…no, just no. I wanted her to have a strong woman’s name and who better than the queen of England who made very progressive reformations and lived a very long life, not cowering for one second.” Vivi realized she must sound crazy, but she was pretty passionate about Victoria’s name. There was so much chaos going on around her pregnancy. So much that was out of her control. She wanted control of something so she took it. “Do you think you’ll have more children?”

☼

It’s a tale known widely around Catalina about how Georgina, at ten years old with broad hazel optics holding onto an abandoned year old Springer Spaniel after a rainy afternoon, knew everything she wanted for her future and a direct pathway to get it. Everyone, beside her immediate family, suspected the eldest Livingston must’ve lost her mind ─ even got struck by lightning on that downpour of an afternoon as it led her to speak with such reliance whenever someone asked her about what she dreams of being. The doe-eyed girl has always been someone who took the role of speaking for those who can’t laboriously. Starting with her siblings as they were far too young to ask for something, specifically a toy or change of television, but it was the stepping stone to where she is now. It’s something grasped onto with fulfillment, and not once, in all of her years, did she look over in remorse at where things turned out for her professionally. So, as these newfound friends begin to tread down a topic of conversation cozy to the veterinarian, each vital feature upon her complexion illuminates in happiness. “Thank you,” she speaks blithely, “Their names fit their personalities all too well.” As it isn’t an over-exaggeration, but the utter truth. “You should come over with Allegra one afternoon because all dogs need friends, and since her brothers aren’t around, it would be nice. We can even make it into a doggy-kiddo playdate, and since I love hosting people, snacks and any alcohol of your choice will be supplied.”

It was an idea that gripped her conscience due to the downcast of her friend’s azure rims, picking up on the dust of sorrow lingering throughout her words. But, rather than bringing up the pandora box of memories of Phillip, specifically in a place open and where vulnerability isn’t all that accepted, the chocolate-tressed women make a mental note to discuss the ex-husband elsewhere, for safeguarding purposes. It might even be an ideal opportunity in the upcoming gathering both mothers are talking about right now. “More of a reason to make this playdate into a play-afternoon for all of us, huh?” Silvery soprano range interjects the proposal with a steadfast beam as Geo’s head tilts to the side. “I know Asher would love nothing more but to get to know Presley.” Words flow effortlessly from her behalf, before her head nods to affirm she meant it. Of course, it’s the mother within her making these immediate assumptions. She knows Asher like the back of her hand, after all. Uniform in his passions just like her, the boy wants nothing more but to be surrounded by those who carry similar interests rather than deducing him. “Just give me a heads up if Presley wants to come over in a costume and which one. Have to make sure the boys don’t match but are on the same side,” A chuckle passes through, taking a second to catch her breath. “And might as well give you a heads up, but my Jojo will probably fawn over Victoria, so if we see her hovering over the little one, it’s good reasons.”

The first time since the server parted from their table, Georgina lifts the glass of water to her petals. Giving her a temporary interlude, right when Vivienne explains her family’s backstory with the frown going unnoticed. It only took her a moment to return the crystalline substance to the coaster, a hand resting upon the nook of her neck with infinite softness around. “Have you ever gone to England?” Questioning with curiosity, particularly for the reason to receive clarity for the unspoken side, Vivienne’s grandmother refuses to indulge. “For the reason to gather any information on the English side of your family?” She asks in the hope it stimulates an idea. Guidance turnovers into curiosity, hearing the details of the other’s past and the process of picking names out, which has comprehensible meaning to Vivienne as it pieces together. Finally, though, when the woman hears the name Philomena, all she can do is blink a couple of times, just to make sure she heard correctly. “Like after Julie Dench’s movie?” Perplexity submerges itself through her tone, having seen it once and hoping this is where correlations lie. But, there isn’t enough time to question any further; her friend throws a curveball which causes hazel orbs to widen into the size of tennis balls as posture adjusts loosens up. “Um,” Initially, all the brunette dares to say, having not thought about this question ever. “I wouldn’t be opposed to more kids, seeing as I don’t want my two to grow up anymore. But, I’m not seeing anyone, and I don’t see myself going to a sperm bank, so it may be out my future.”

Gabby shook her head the moment that Geo let her know that she wanted to know something. “There isn’t much to tell you about last night. I mean, I met some nice people, probably had a drink too much but I can still remember everything that happened last night so that is good. But it was fun. Just some relaxing time which is all this trip is about after all.” That and enjoying some family time together with her siblings. Just forget everything that was going on at home. The fact that she suddenly had thought it was a good idea to perhaps find a place for a new house and actually move away from the house where she had been living now for the past two years. The fact that her feelings weren’t as mutual as she had hoped for with someone. The fact that her job was taking so much space in her life but not giving her that rewarding feeling she had had when she had been working in Formula One. It was just time to forget it all for a moment and just enjoy the sun, the beach, the pool, everything that Mexico had to offer them at this very moment.

The youngest sister had to laugh out loud at the mention of the ordered mimosa by Asher and Gabby shook her head. “I think I might have to take responsibility for that. He asked what was in your drink the other day, little did I know he was planning on this. If he takes a liking to alcohol when he’s older, I’m definitely the responsible one in that case,” she let her sister know. It was often interesting how many people underestimated her. For some reason they did not think that Gabby was able to drink quite a lot but if she got a pace going, then a lot of alcohol could be consumed by her and that was something she often regretted the next morning.

“Has Gabe joined us in the land of the living just yet or do you think we will have to wake him up by the time dinner is about ready?” Gabby asked her sister, glancing around to see if she could find the tall appearance of her brother but he was nowhere to be found. She then looked back at Geo again. “Do you have any other plans for the rest of the day, besides laying next to the pool?”

☼

By the retelling of her sister’s rendezvous last night, one would’ve left it merely at that because all bases managed to get covered. Though, all is different with Georgina, knowing that she prefers more details than skimming the surface for a multitude of reasons. Heart to hearts, or the concept of passionate conversation, is what the eldest sister thrives the most on best. So, as she allows a tick of quietude to flicker through their conversation and a sip of her water, the growing honey-kissed brunette can’t help but scoot closer to Gabby. “Some nice people, huh?” Intrigued, she is, and it shows by how her head tilts to the side before steadfast beam flutters to the surface. “Like who? What are their names? Where are they from? Did you exchange numbers with these people?” Or could it have been unambiguously surface level? Either way, it’s pleasing that her sister is relishing the time and abiding by their number one rule, other than keeping their phones nearby them at all times, is to have fun and worry about what’s back in Catalina when they return. “You’re right; it’s all about relaxing,” her silvery falsetto repeats in a nod, hues fixating on her sister, “It’s about time we made this happen.”

Keeping her gaze upon Gabby, it eventually diverts its course toward Asher as he stands at the bottom of the gigantic, green slide the kids had spoken about the entire morning, in preparation to catch Joanna if she lands wrong potentially. Descry alone causes an impact to her eye corners, creasing to the unfolding beatitude. Progressively as the days change, the sight of Geo’s bundle of joys grows into a striking image of her. Specks of Tucker remain in both of their looks: Asher with his father’s hair color and Joanna with his nose shape. Otherwise, they are wholly all her. “You know, he had an incident with Gwen about two months ago,” she begins as laughter occupies in remembrance, “He wanted to sip our margaritas and ended up storming out of the house in a pout. Spent the entire evening in the tree-house reading and shining his flashlight in my direction. It was something.” It astounds her how his curiosity is getting the best of him. Though, in the circumstances of ordering his mother a mimosa for her breakfast this morning, the birthday girl will allow it to be an expectation. “And, trust me, you will make sure to blame you if he keeps on asking and insisting,” she quips in a twisted expression.

Chocolate locks shake in a nay at Gabby’s question, figuring Gabe would’ve messaged their group chat if he was on the way. “I say we wake him up by 12:30,” her soprano suggests reasonably with an arched brow. Giving their brother an additional two hours to make up for the lack of beauty sleep because of the last few months seems logical. After all, each person sees a holiday differently than the next. Whereas Geo and the kids were wake by the time a flick of rays cascading into the room. Others like Gabe use this time to rest up and repeat. Either way, the sisters will make sure he gets up because Geo’s eager for their oceanfront dinner tonight. Not for herself, but for her children and siblings to enjoy because there’s no one else she’d celebrate her birthday with. Her left dimple secures itself within her sandy complexion, as she begins once more: “Nothing too extensive today. The kids and I decided we’ll go parasailing around two and relax up until it’s time for dinner, which will be on the beach tonight.” Informing saccharinely, an index finger points to the general direction as attention retrieves itself. “I’m thinking about going to the spa in the next couple of days, and I’d love you to tag along… if you’re interested, of course.”

nicole: [ image attached ]

nicole: we are betting on if noah will recognize me or not like this and film the reaction.

nicole: what do you think?

geo: WHO ALLOWED YOU TO BE THIS BEAUTIFUL?

geo: WHO ALLOWED YOU TO TAKE MY BREATH AWAY?

geo: oh, he'll definitely recognize you. just because your hair color changed, you can't forget the fact you did carry him for 9 months and that's a bond that will never break.

“Warn you?” Gabriel shakes his head with a playful smile on his lips as Mason gets comfortable on his lap with a small sigh, it’s like the pup had always belonged there and Gabriel felt that too. He had them for less than 24 hours and not only had they been a big hit on his Instagram page, his mother had called begging for pictures of the new family additions so she could fawn over them. It really had surprised him that the first one to be visiting them was Georgina and not Sylvie. “I didn’t even know I was gonna get them— the thought was to go to the shelter and get to know the people there and maybe play with some puppies and other dogs and cats, and come home and make a decision at a later date, but, you should see the way they were with Asher and Jojo,” he grinned longingly. The morning had been more than fun for his niece and nephew, they were swarmed by dogs, but both Archie and Mason chose them and chose Gabriel right after. “Mason jumped on Jojo’s lap and Archie was quick to lick Archer all over and once the lady told him his name, he all but intimidated me into taking Archie home, when they realized that they were brothers, Jojo pouted relentlessly,” he chuckled passing a hand on Mason’s golden fur.

Adopting had been something that had crossed his mind once or twice, at the most. He knew that having pets who depended on him would inevitably tie him down to the island more than he had once thought he could be. He was used to travel around for competitions, but there was absolutely no denying that the island was his home, at least he knew that if he had to travel in the future, his family could take care of the dogs and play with them, for now, they were the company Gabriel needed and them alongside working with Ava would do great things to his unnocupied brain. “I’m telling you, that girl is all you, including knowing that she can make me do just about anything she wants,” he looks at his sister and how Archie plays with her as if he has known her for a million years, “she wanted me to get a girl, but I had to draw the line at two, more than that and I would have to move somewhere bigger,” he laughs.

At her offer in examining them, Gabriel nodded, he didn’t know whether she preferred to do things there, but hell, he would drive them to her office if needed. “Not that I needed, but I totally name dropped you at the shelter, they were happy to know that the pups would have access to a vet 24 hours a day, if needed,” he wiggled his eyebrows punctuating the joke, of course he would never bother his sister at odd hours, unless he needed to and he was sure as hell hoping not to. As he waited for her to do his thing, he leaned back on the couch and observed. “How were things in LA, by the way? I still can’t believe that fucker is still bothering you post-mortem,” he rolled his eyes, not really doing anything in hiding his distaste over his late-brother-in-law, not like he needed to anyway.

☼

The adoption story begins to make utter sense as Gabe explains things thoroughly; all of the puzzle pieces from her daughter’s ramble of elation last night became to connect. All she can remember is her brows furrowing together, looking dumbfoundedly at Jojo, and even further into the evening as the kids fell sound asleep. It’s how and why Georgina called their mother first ─ because if there’s one person who’s customarily in the know, it’s Sylvie Livingston. Their mother may not be one for gossip, but the vital information she knows through the grapevines astounds Geo left and right. It only made sense why they didn’t do this process together. Regardless, the honey-kissed brunette is beaming merrily at the addition to her brother’s household, once and for all. “I swear, any time Ash and Jojo are in the equation, all of our morals compasses fly right out the window,” she chuckles, knowing the kids have the entire family wrapped around their fingers. Just a single look and all of them grow weak at the knees, as an image of them at the adoption center begins to circulate in her mind. A hasty moment of the mental picture gets cut as a peal of laughter enters the room at the mention of Joanna’s pouting, immediately throwing both of her hands up, “I don’t know where she learned that pouting from,” her silvery falsetto cluelessly admits, fixating on Archie. 

Yet, Georgina knows where her daughter learned that lesson ─ from her’s truly. The expression is something the mother attempts to avoid entirely when the kids are around. The reason for it ever coming to the surface is when she spoke to her siblings or to Lilo and Stitch, who occasionally want nothing to do with her and the walks she adores taking them on. So to imagine the sight of her mini-me pulling that card on her uncle, with plenty of hues nearby and observing them, manages to do something to her. Whether it be pride or utter embarrassment, the mother knows this won’t be the first nor the last time this action from her bottom petal will serve her well. If it happens again, then she’ll worry about it. Right now, the euphoric atmosphere of Archie giving her undivided attention and another statement from her brother causes her famous left dimple to present itself. “I know, it’s crazy when you think about it,” Silvery falsetto remarks happily, engulfed in absolute happiness as everything attaches itself to her heartstrings. Tapping her fingers on the floor to gather Archie’s attention for the upcoming examination, a brow shot towards Gabe, “I told her that there could only be one Lilo in the equation.”

As Archie closed the distance and climbed into her arms, the veterinarian opened the bag located off to the side as she grabbed a stethoscope to listen to his heartbeat. One boom, right after another, in a healthy cycle, has her flashing Gabe a thumbs up to know so far so good. Usually, she checks up to a minute, abiding by this protocol Geo created for herself, before returning the device to her bag as her speculum presents itself. “Of course you did.” Laughter escapes from her lips, opening the bag with one hand as she holds onto Archie gently, who is peculiarly still enough during this examination. Her head momentarily glances to her brother, perched on the couch, watching as she did her midas touch upon the animals. “You know that you can always come over whenever you need something for the boys, right?” The inquiry is gentle though it would be uncharacteristic if it came out any other way. “No matter what time of the day or evening, it is. I’ll always drop everything for you,” she reminds him, knowing better than to do that but feeling the need to get her point across.

Thankfully, managing to get the point across before the mention of Tucker’s estate in Los Angeles comes into their conversing as it causes an immediate sigh and hues to shut momentarily. “Well, actually.” Avoiding the later remark from her brother with clenched teeth, knowing she felt the same way about her former lover as Geo does everything in her power to avoid speaking ill of him ─ even when the kids aren’t around. “All of their personal belongs are gone from the premise and in a storage unit,” she says in a dull tone, not wanting to react because Geo’s ready to move on finally. “I’m going to sell it because I have no reason to keep it since I rarely go to Los Angeles as it is.” Now, she bites down her bottom petal, taking a moment to prepare for what potential reaction she’ll get from Gabe in her next statement. “I think I’m going to ask Sebastian to help me.”

Georgina’s motherly tone struck a chord within Lydia she wasn’t ready for. The hug wasn’t reciprocated like the other times when she would hold onto the other woman like a lifeline, and before she could even realize what she was doing, Lydia carefully shimmied out of the brunette’s embrace, desperately needing to put some distance between the two of them. She hoped that Georgina wouldn’t take her actions to heart. She wouldn’t need many words to explain it either, it all came down to one fact.

She didn’t want a mother right now.

Georgina had been a representative of what a mother could be since Lydia had known her. Her natural warmth, the way that it was easy to feel comforted when around her, and how Lydia wanted to constantly take up on the woman’s offer to be a shoulder to cry on or to be someone she could just be around of easily. Lydia didn’t want that right now and it mostly had to do with the anger she had been nurturing over Catherine. Knowing that Thomas was not her father had ripped open a lot of old wounds and Lydia’s early referral of what a mother could be, came rushing to the forefront of her brain. She didn’t want a mother right now. 

With a small step back, Lydia wrapped her arms around herself and sighed, she gripped herself so hard it could be interpreted as her trying to hold herself together, and it wouldn’t be wrong. She looked down at her feet for a moment, knowing she had yet to reply to Georgina’s question, but the way the other’s gaze fell on Lydia made her feel all kinds of exposed and vulnerable, making her mindlessly shrink. Thankfully she had superficial problems that she could easily lay on Georgina and hope they would be distracting enough to keep her away from digging for the whole truth. Lydia was unsure at that moment if running into Geo first had been better than running into Eleanor first, or if the other way around would be make her break down faster. Both of them had such ways of looking at the blonde that made her want to just pour her heart out to them. She wasn’t ready for it. Not today.

“I’m fine,” the lie left a sour taste in her mouth, but she would continue to lie through her teeth if it meant she could keep Georgina from looking at her the same way she always did when she spoke of her father. 

Wait. 

Father cannot be the right term for Thomas at that point.

She took in a deep breath thoughts swirling around inside her mind as her eyes fell on both Asher and Joanna. The sight of them made her smile. A small smile that didn’t reach her eyes, but a smile nonetheless, and Lydia considered that to be progress. With a blink she was back looking at Geo. “You know, end of the happy hour and uhm—” how could she put that lightly and kid friendly? “—men wanting to stick their hands where they don’t belong,” she passed a hand through her hair while trying to sell the story as the whole reason for her appearing upset. Lydia was not the best actress, even she knew that, but she was desperate, she didn’t want to talk about herself now. How could she distract Georgina without revealing much about what she had been dealing with for the past three weeks?

The kids.

“What are you guys doing out?” Lydia asked, quickly diverting the conversation from herself and onto Georgina. She noticed the takeout bags in hand and how expectant both children looked. She liked them, and the sight of them made her miss Declan terribly. What the fuck was she doing? 

☼

It takes everything in Georgina to not blame herself for the lack of reciprocation from Lydia now. Had the terms of their dynamic been different, opposite of their mother-daughter approach, she wouldn’t be feeling all sorts of agonization or fright at the moment as she holds the lifeless form in the enfold. Yet, it begins to climb further to the surface the longer they remain in this hold, and well after the moment, the blonde begins to shimmy herself away from the other. All she can feel is her heart drop to her stomach, the uncharacteristic feeling of her features pinching together, and lastly, the sense of two bodies gluing themselves to their mother’s legs like sloths as this abrupt halt in their return back to Ventura perplexed them.

If it hadn’t been for the stream of actions unfolding, the brunette wouldn’t have retrieved back to the present. She’d remain fixed in wonder. Calculating their last interaction on how airy and joyful, they had been ─ going back to their yoga session at Carmichael Roses later that week and showing everyone that a fart could’ve happened to anyone. They laughed so hard that it felt like the muscle in her stomach toned themselves before the Mexico trip. It was full of bliss that she wishes, let alone could gather any ounce of insight, on what happened when they briefly separated. Could it have been her schedule and the frequent visits to Los Angeles? Geo doesn’t think she’s managed to ignore anyone, only taking a couple of hours longer than usual to respond to any messages or phone call, for that matter. Not like she would ever be the kind of person she is, but her mind is growing blank on reasons.

Or it could be similar to her own downfall roughly eight years ago: her postpartum depression after giving birth to Asher. Initially, warning signs about a potential disconnection came only two weeks into being a mother as a cataract of tears overtook her. Eventually, the incidents due to her symptoms of depression became unpredictable. Making a joyous celebration of a new life depending on her comes off as a chore and the last thing she’s wanted ─ though, it was far from the case because motherhood is all she’s ever wanted. Nevertheless, the helix of her own life and pastime is something she knows all too well. One day you’re okay and enough to keep your head afloat, and the next day, things can tip you over like the infamous iceberg that took the Titanic down.

It’s the unpredictability of the world, and this is what she suspects is happening to Lydia currently. This sight of a young woman is unrecognizable to the point of exhaustion, causing her features to look sullen in the dim light and enough to alert Geo about the foul smell of liquor lingering on the other’s body and clothes. It’s a corpse barely functioning and waiting for the last pin to drop: whatever it may be.

I’m fine. Words penetrate the silence malfunction in convincing her, making it known by the firm shake her head to dismiss the false belief. “Ly,” Clearing her throat, hazel optics peer down to the ash-blond lock of Asher’s head before diverting to Joanna’s inky strands in a ballerina bun as Geo carefully chooses her words to avoid a scene. “It’s not like you to ignore calls or messages,” she begins gently, “Unless you’ve been busy, which I can understand… happens to the best of us.” And she understands as life is unpredictable. Nothing is one hundred percent certain. “But I don’t…. think you look fine ─ or alright; however, you want to call it for that matter. Have you been sleeping?”

Or foremost, taking care of yourself in ways like water, enjoying the growing Catalina summer rays, going on walks to clear her mind, spending time with others in comparison to the scent of whatever liquor she’s been drowning herself in.

But, Geo bites down on her bottom petal, suppressing one too many questions coming to the surface because it’s undemanding of her to put her maternal hat on. It’s a title she wore from the age of four as the eldest Livingston was greeted with a sibling. She was too young to do the chores of changing her brother’s diaper or putting away. But, her hazel optics glued on him to make sure no harm could come his way. If someone wanted to get to Gabe, they’d have to go through the young girl first ─ solidify how much it means for her to care and be everyone’s saving grace. “Oh,” It comes out in a dumbfounded tone and widens optics, aware the kids will be listening in to the conversation. So her words are chosen carefully, teeth clenching together: “Did you make sure those men learned their lesson through a bucket of water or a little splash in their faces?” Suppose that could be a reason, willing to play along for the sake, but her gut-intuition alerts her profusely.

Before anything else could be said, specifically on her behalf, Joanna’s perky childlike falsetto comes to life: We just had dinner at Marlins, a momentarily pause from her daughter before continuing with a widening smile, We just came back from Mexico and were lazy to cook… I think mommy has a gift for you too. And Geo certainly does, indicating a nod and a hand planting itself on her daughter’s chest to pat it lightly as a thank you for the assistance. “Jojo is right, I do have something for you.”

Malia: You have a point! I'll make sure to invite them 😂

Malia: This sounds like an amazing plan and I'm all about it! I will definitely bring the whiskey and we can get to that deep chat we've been holding off 🤫

Malia: You know I've always tried to get into golf for business reasons, but I talked too much for it lol. I could also never hit the ball so there's that lol. You can count on me. I can teach him how to trip his opponent too 😉

Malia: I'll call my people in the morning and see what I can do. I'll have it specially gift wrapped and everything. Don't worry, G. Malia's on the job!

Geo: Please do! Heaven knows Gabe already twisted my arm about meeting you.. the last thing I want is a grown man crying in my kitchen.

Geo: If you ever need lessons, we got you! I'm always at the Country Club on Sunday with my dad, brother, and sometimes the kiddos when they're in the mood lmao. But, you're amazing and I'll ask him what he thinks because he's always thinking of something.

at gabriel’s apartment on MAY 1ST. around two in the afternoon.

closed starter for georgina livingston — @georginalivingston​.

Had Gabriel known Mason and Archie would fill the void of his loneliness so well, he would have attempted to take a visit to the animal shelter sooner. There had not been a dull moment in the apartment since the day before. He knew he would always remember Joanna and Archer’s blinding smiles when the dogs came to play with them in the playpen. Archer was completely mesmerized by Archie, also because he had almost the same name as he did, and seeing how both puppies had gotten along with the kids and the story behind their abandonment, there was no way in hell Gabriel could ever choose one and leave the other behind.

Gabriel had delivered the children back to their mother completely worn out and sleeping. He didn’t expect to see his sister dropping by on the next day announcing that their parents’ had the kids and they could spend the day together. It was a good thing though, not only he was excited to introduce his pups to her, he also wanted to know if everything had gone according to plan. “You should have seen it, I mean, I took enough pictures, but you should have been there,” he sat on the floor playing with Mason while Archie was giving his undivided attention to Georgina, he didn’t need to ask, but he needed Geo to check them up. “Apparently their mothers were abandoned in the same place and the rest of the litter died, and they found them hugging each other through the cold and hot days,” he pressed his lips together, “it’s not like I could separate them after that, you know?”

☼

News travels quickly ─ even faster when it proceeds through the grapevine of the family. One word, after another, lead Geo to learn about Gabe adopting from no one other than Sylvie. Not only is there exhilaration about her brother adopting because it’s the veterinarian and animal lover within her loving these new additions for Lilo and Stitch to play with, but the power of animals can fill any gaping hole, as she knows from the first-hand experience. So, it was necessary to make a trip over to meet the latest addition to the family, visualizing the field day of pleasure their mother will have with updating the pet’s Instagram, but importantly, coming to give a proper examination because it’s what she specializes in.

Personalized GSL veterinary bag, one that she keeps around her Ventura estate, in her possession, the honey-kissed brunette greeted her brother with a gaping expression and hellos before making herself at home with the puppies. Other siblings would’ve yelled at the other for showing up unannounced, especially with how Geo and Gabe just saw each other, but this isn’t the case with the Livingston’s. They were taught from a young age the importance of spending time together and never leave anyone behind. Now sitting cross-legged on the hardwood floor, her hazel optics fixture themselves on Mason and Archie ─ the latter name absorbing her own Asher attention, as she understands why. “I wish you would’ve given me a heads up,” she informs playfully, having no offense drizzling through her falsetto nor her features as digits running the snowy fur of Archie, “We could’ve done a triple adoption: you with Mason and Archie, me with Lady Mary, and made it a cute afternoon.”

Though, Georgina understands their timetables have been ships passing in the night since returning back from Mexico. Instantly thrashed into work and handling Tucker’s estate in Westwood, California, made her feel like she’s a road runner and waiting for them a plethora of nuts will be thrown in her direction. Beaming, the veterinarian leans forward and pats her brother on the knee, “But, I’m so glad you finally made this happen and did the right thing by not separating them. They’ll be in amazing care,” her silvery falsetto concludes merrily, ready to spoil her animal nephews rotten. Before that’s even possible, she straightens her posture and takes Archie into her cross-legged lap as a single arched brow shoots at Gabe, “I brought my equipment. Just say the word and I’ll examine them.”

Malia: Yeah, we'll see. I mean, I could go for a good party, especially one on the beach lol. You have to come of course! I can only handle being the center of attention for so long. I think I need to drink some of your Kool-Aid because I'm the opposite.

Malia: I like that! You're always thinking, G. I like that about you 🥰

Malia: OMG! Tahj would literally combust if he saw all those toys! We should meet up when you guys get back and do an exchange. WE LOVE THE PRINCESS AND THE FROG TOO! Tahlia always wants to go down to the beach and see if she can catch and kiss a frog 😂 I keep telling her that they don't live at the beach and she just argues that they do and she's going to find one and kiss it lol. She would love that so much! She ADORES dressing up. I couldn't get her out of that Elsa costume for days after Asher's party. I think I took it off of her when she fell asleep one night and there was screaming and crying when she woke up.

Malia: Good choices! First of all, I LOVED The Mighty Ducks when I was younger myself! Do you think he'll want to play hockey? I played field hockey growing up so I could show him some pointers. She has to get a Paddington bear! I can definitely call in some favors and get her one 🙂

Geo: Oo, a beach party is amazing! Though, I will say, if you're looking for someone to take the attention off of you ─ Gabe and Gabby are perfect for that position. I can only handle a limited amount too 😂

Geo: You're too kind, seriously thank you!

Geo: Alright, a plan is well in full force when I return ─ you, the twins, and that whiskey (which I didn't forget.. how could I?) come over for a needed reunion! Tahj can pick anything he wants from Asher's pile and anything that remains, I'll just donate to the hospital! And that's so freaking adorable! I wish I had any Elsa items from Jojo, but she was more of an Anna kind of girl.

Geo: I'm not sure, actually. It would be nice change of pace, though he's so used to playing on the greens than skating on the ice that I have to see what he decides. I would never force him into something, you know? So if something happens, you'll be the first to know smile 😊 . But, reliving the OG Mighty Ducks made me remember when I had the biggest crush on Emilio Estevez.

Leanne and her crownies had been the first set of people who greeted her when she first moved to the island. Vivi had obliged their invitation to an outing and regretted it afterwards. It had been a horrible experience of gossiping and parent shaming which she couldn’t be a part of. She was more than happy to be paired with Georgina. She had a completely different personality and energy than the other woman and Vivi could appreciate it. The dark-haired woman shrugged softly as Geo complimented her taste. “Music runs strong in my veins. If you were to cut me, I’d probably bleed musical notes and staffs. That’s what my head tends to fill with when I’m not looking out for my children so music focused movies tend to be my favorites.” Vivi took another sip of her drink, before nodding. “I definitely understand not being able to sit down for long periods with kids in the house. I guess my ex’s visitation days have helped with that. It’s incredibly quiet when the kids are gone with him. I find I don’t have much to occupy my time. I try to create music and I practice all the instruments I have, but…even that doesn’t fill the time.” she sighed, twisting her glass in a circle around the table. “It’s a little rough when they go away.”

Vivi chuckled, nodding. “Well then you hear all the talk about Thor and Captain America and the Hulk too. Peyton and Presley talk about Marvel all the time and Presley is always flipping off of the couch and trying to act out the movies. He would’ve broken his arm a few weeks ago if I hadn’t come in at the right moment and caught him in mid-air.” Paddington hadn’t been something she watched with her children, but maybe it would be on their next movie night. Her dark eyebrows dipped for a second as she noted Geo’s nervousness. “Is this a good place to be or should we pick somewhere else? I don’t mean make you uncomfortable.”

Her blue eyes rolled at the mention of her birthday. It was, in fact, her day, but Vivi hardly ever celebrated it anymore. “Thirty-six is a bit different from thirty-five, I can say that. And I’ll toast to needing a queen over a knight any day.” she smiled as she clinked her glass with Geo’s before taking a sip. The waiter came over and she gave him her order, waiting quietly for Georgina to give hers as well. Her eyes lit up a bit as the brunette shared that she was the oldest. “I am as well, but it’s only me and my younger sister, Kitty….Katherine, but she’ll always be Kitty to me.” she smiled as she thought of her younger sister. She was making her own way in the world now and was quite successful. “You said there were three of you? I have three children. My twin boys, Peyton and Presley, you’ve already met. I also have a nine month old daughter, Victoria, but we call her Vee or Vicky mostly. You must tell me all the secrets to growing up because I need to see what I’m in store for.”

☼

Softness in the form of a beam settles upon Geo’s corners, listening intently to her new friend explain their love for music and how it bleeds through them. Understanding the potency flowing through the other’s words at once and in a tidal wave. After all, it’s similar to how the woman feels about her own profession: being the voice of reason and caring for animals who can only capture their owner’s attention through a squawk of discomfort. A life without their respective line of work would be a challenge to function and something she never wants to lose ─ suspecting the same goes from Vivienne’s behalf. “Everything about what you said is beautiful. Stole the words right out of my mouth, but must be the producer within you,” Her silvery falsetto points out with a slight chuckle. Though fleeting in its eruption, her mouth shuts before a hand rests upon the sandy-tinted complexion. A wave of sorrow consumes her about how quiet her child-free days turn out to be. “I can understand that since my parents and siblings frequently take them for the weekend. I’m not entirely alone because I have the kids Beagles, Lilo and Stitch, but it’s different you don’t hear them rounding the corner.”

Allowing the emotion to settle upon her expression for a moment longer, hazel optics eventually shift to the sight of her crystalline water. Hand reaches forward to hold the glass as Vivi is jumping in with knowledge about superheroes. Something in this particular topic finds her relived and full of glee, aware that some of the mothers that Geo invited to Asher’s birthday party had a bit of a challenge abiding by the dress code regulations. Thankfully, someone else can understand the importance of hero figures. “I swear… where have you been my entire life!” Enthusiasm flows laboriously, returning to the glass to the coaster at once. Glistening array settling upon her multitoned eyes as a peal of laughter escapes at Presley’s form of play. “Okay, Asher hasn’t gotten to the point of flipping couches, and I hope it stays that way.” Or else the entire situation will land a panic state within her ─ wanting nothing more but to secure the kids from any injuries. “But the process of watching the movies took us a while since he wanted to read the comics first.” Though she couldn’t blame her son, the ashy-blond boy is a replica of her down-to personality, knowing his passion from a young age and prioritizing reading before any theatrical release.

Prior to reassuring Vivienne that nothing is bothering her, though the emotion lingered in her words, their server arrives for both orders. Rather than retrieving the menu in her possession, confidence excludes from her behalf as she politely asks for Italian Chopped Salad and tofu, on the side, if possible, before the interaction ended entirely before growing astounded by the peculiar resemblance amongst the parties. “Oh my god, you’re all named K’s,” As this isn’t her entire point, aware someone must’ve made this observation priorly, she uses the fleeting interlude to catch her breathe, “My siblings and I are all G names: Georgina, Gabriel, and Gabriella.” Which still gives the siblings a kick at how Sylvie and Jonathan thought long and hard about Gabby’s name. “Then, when it came to naming my kids, I broke the whole Kardashian letter naming route and now have Asher and Joanna.”