before the storm

I’ve been thinking a lot about video games lately. That may seem random, but stay with me. The Sims 4 just came out with a new expansion pack recently. It’s a cottage core/folklore/evermore vibe and my computer is struggling a little bit with all the open tabs I have with custom content, inspiration, musings, etc. I’m aware that I may sound crazy and I’ve gotten a lot of weird looks, side eyes, and sass from my fur children, as well as the loving jokes my boyfriend has been making revolving all of this. What’s a video game that sparks nostalgic in you in some way? @1x1main​  

I feel like everyone just goes a little crazy whenever The Sims does anything. It’s one of those games that will forever withstand the test of time, you know? It’s always going to be around and people are always going to love it. So while everyone around you might think you sound crazy, I’m here to tell you that you aren’t and there are many people out there, just like you. I’ve never been great at those type of video games, I was obsessed with Super Mario and Donkey Kong, though. Those were the shit and they still continue to be. 

Demi: I literally can't believe that Joe is a father now. That's just insane to me and it makes me feel like we're so old now. I really am sorry that things didn't work out in your marriage.

Demi: I will gladly let him jump on me and even knock me down, if it means I get some love and affection from him. If that's the way I go, then so be it.

Nick: After growing up with the guy, I can't believe it either. We were admittedly way too into fart jokes when we shouldn't have been, but now look at him - a straight up dad. A good one too, surprisingly. Eh, it's all good. Things happen, you know? When you know it isn't right, you just know.

Demi: I agree. Plus, I really do miss you and it would be amazing to see you again. Especially since it's been a while.

Demi: I'm so excited to meet Gino. I've seen the pictures of him on your Instagram. I'm fully prepared to be smothered by him.

Nick: It's been way too long. Hell, Joe has a full on baby now. And I have... a divorce, I guess. Life has a funny way of working out, I guess.

Demi: Thank you, Nick. That means a lot to me coming from you. Maybe we can just try to put the past behind us then? Start a new chapter maybe?

Demi: I can make this weekend work. How about Sunday sometime?

Nick: I'm definitely on board with that assuming you're okay with it. A lot has happened between now and then, and I think maybe it's time we all move on from it.

Demi: I really am. For the first time in my life, I feel like I can be my true, authentic self. So I'm just living my best life.

Demi: Yeah, maybe I'll be able to make some room in my schedule to hang. When are you free?

Nick: I'm happy that you've found that. Really, I am. And despite all the things that went down between us, I'm here for you through everything and I'm sorry the way things went down in the past.

Demi: Thank you! It's something I'm incredibly proud of to have out out into the world. It's definitely the most vulnerable piece of work I've ever done.

Demi: Nice. I was also in New York pretty recently with a friend. Surprised we didn't cross paths.

Nick: And like I said, you seem like you're in a really great place. You can see it on your face that you're so much happier than you were a while back. It's just so great to see.

Demi: Thanks. I appreciate it.

Demi: I've been good. Just opening a whole new chapter of my life. So that's exciting. How about you?

Nick: Yeah, I've seen that too. I'm really happy for you and proud of everything you've been doing. The documentary, the album, all of it is incredible.

Demi: Thanks. It's good to hear from you again.

Demi: How've you been?

Nick: I didn't know if you'd want to hear from me but I thought I'd reach out.

Miley: Of course! I always have the best time when I'm around you too. I kind of feel like we're fourteen year olds all over again, just going on an adventure together. I like the idea of continuing the spontaneity. We can Google some places in the moment for directions or ideas. But I don't think we should plan more than one step at a time.

Joe: I know. I just know the connection your guys had was genuine, even thought you were only teenagers. I mean some of our biggest hits as a band were inspired by her. Oh god the pit sweat. I had second hand embarrassment for you when I saw how those pics turned out.

Joe: Ah yes, a FRIEND. I'm glad this side of you has come out. Like I said, it's nice to see. I mean, I'm never going to say no to gifts. You know my size and my style. And of course Willa will love being spoiled by her second favorite uncle.

Nick: You're right. Despite being like, fifteen years old a lot of those feelings were genuine and real. Not to mention, we were all forced to grow up much quicker than a lot of other people so having a serious relationship at that age wasn't exactly not normal. I know, I know. Why did no one tell me that deodorant was a thing back then?

Miley: I'm glad I can bring that side out of you. It's nice seeing you just let loose and be so carefree. It's a very hot look on you. Psh, I'm the best influence on you. Well my schedule is wide open, so I'm down to just continue shutting out the rest of the world and exploring the city with you.

Joe: I just also remember how friendly you guys were back in the day. She was your first love and that's something that never fully goes away.

Joe: Wow who is this new spontaneous Nick and where is my brother? No but really, I'm glad to see you're having some fun. Miley always one to bring that side of your out more. Enjoy your time in the city, bro!

Nick: But we were teenagers then. All we knew was fun and being friendly. And pit sweat anytime she came around. Oh god, there was so much pit sweat. I'm surprised she still wants to me around me after all of that.

Miley: Well you're in luck, since spontaneous is definitely my thing. It's good for you to be a little more spontaneous from time to time. It was a good night. But then again, any night that I get to hang out with you is good by me.

Joe: Ah, "friendly" 👀👀

Joe: No but really, I'm glad you guys are enjoying each other's company. How was New York?

Nick: Stop it with the emojis, Joe. Friendly means friendly.

Joe: So I saw Miley on SNL last night 👀

Joe: Just wondering if you tuned in...or tagged along 👀👀

Nick: ...Yes.