#onyxpancakes

Friday. It should be the best day of the week with school winding down but instead someone decided to make Fridays exam days. First up was the exam for English class, testing reading comprehension and writing skills.

Darwin: Why didn’t you guys tell me it was exam day

Carson, William, Onyx: EVERY Friday is exam day

Darwin: Yeesh, calm down. You’d think I asked who killed Father Winter

Mrs T: 10 minutes to go!

Carson panicked. He still had another paragraph he wanted to do, could he fit it in and triple check his multi question answers? Pushing his doubts aside he began a breathing exercise and started on the paragraph. He needn’t have worried. He managed to do it and recheck the first two pages before Mrs T announced it was time for pencils down. As she collected the papers he rhythmically tapped his foot to make sure she wouldn't laugh at his first paper.

Onyx: I feel like I did okay, how about you?

Carson: I probably failed but if I didn’t maybe a solid B+

Onyx: You’ll be fine. All your family head home then?

Carson: Yeah they’ll be off by now. I didn’t kill Reece so I suppose it went well

Onyx: He might have killed you with a slow acting poison in your breakfast

Carson: Oh my- Nyx could you not!

Onyx: Right, anxiety, sorry, bad joke. I’m just trying to improve my comedy

When they got to the cafeteria they split with Onyx heading for food and Carson looking for Ariadne.

Ariadne: Hey! I didn’t think I’d get to see you at lunch

Carson: I’m going to go study in a minute but I wanted to check you’re still okay with me getting you home?

Ariadne: I’d love some company on the trains

Carson: Good. Well, see ya

He turned to go but hesitated. The hug had been good, maybe... Carson turned back to face Ariadne, leaned down and kissed her on the cheek and sped off to the sounds of her friends oh’s and ah’s. Well that hadn’t been bad. He still didn’t feel an urge to woohoo but it felt comforting to be close to her, that he was letting her know how he felt. Seeing her smile after, knowing he’d made her smile like that, it felt satisfying enough for him.

The after exams were the STEM subjects. Carson felt reasonably confident about his knowledge. He may have been distracted thinking of Ariadne but he’d completed all his homework, and done the extra study. He finished double checking everything five minutes early and started thinking about after school. It was just one question he was worried about. Flirting was one thing but would she actually want to be his girlfriend?

The train ride was easier than he thought. Carson and Ariadne talked about the various things they could spot out the windows and were together when their exam results came through. They’d both done pretty well and Carson was happy with getting the top score in the art section of the exam. When they got to Ariadne’s house she didn’t want to go right in, preferring to sit outside and admire the lake for a bit.

Ariadne: It’s so beautiful when it’s all covered in a blanket of white

Carson: Well you’re beautiful full stop

Ariadne: *smiling* Thank you

Ariadne: Thanks for bringing me home, it was fun. I should probably get inside before I turn into ice. Unless... you want to come in?

Carson: Oh no that’s okay, I do have to get back to Sulani. I’ve got planning to do before scouts tomorrow. But um... I’ve really liked hanging out with you more

Ariadne: *smiling* Me to

Carson: So I wanted to ask, and you can totally say no, if you would maybe... be my girlfriend?

Ariadne: You want me to be your girlfriend?

Carson: Yes. I... I would like if you’d consider it

Ariadne: So you’d be my boyfriend?

Carson: Yeah that’s... that’s kind of how it works

Ariadne: If I say yes do you promise to take me to our next prom?

Carson: *laughs* Of course I’d take you to prom

Ariadne: Yes. Yes!

Carson: Are you sure? I mean I like how I look but I worry you’d be embarrassed to be dating a four eyed overweight guy. I don't want you to die of embarrassment

Ariadne: *sighs* You worry a lot huh

Carson: Yeah. I ah.... I have OCD actually

Ariadne: Listen Carson, I like you. I think your glasses are cute. Anyone makes fun of you for being overweight and I’ll show them you have a girlfriend that’s not to be messed with

Carson: *laughs* You’re like ant height

Ariadne: But you like me regardless, and I like you regardless

Carson: I do

Ariadne: Can you wait five minutes before heading off? I just want to grab something for you

Carson: Okay. If you come back and I’m not here tell them to dredge the lake

Ariadne: *laughs* I’ll just be a minute, no one’s going to murder you in a minute

She races inside and Carson can’t stop himself grinning. He’s glad for the falling snow to cool the blush in his cheeks. It’s longer than a minute but Ariadne comes back outside with a rose.

Carson: What’s this

Ariadne: My dads got me some pots and seeds and not much has grown yet but this rose bloomed a few days ago and it just made me think of you

Carson: Watcher you’re so cute

That’s the Foster’s for now! Harvey is still chomping at the bit for grandkids while Kayleigh is making a habit of painting masterpieces. Carson may have a lot going on in his head but hopefully making his relationship official will take care of some of his worries.

Rotation Wrap Up will be out tomorrow morning.

Since the infant can't talk her thoughts will be in brackets

Fergus: She’s going to be here after school!

Onyx: *unenthusiastically* Yay

Fergus: I thought you wanted to have a sister

Onyx: I do, I’m just feeling sick

Fergus: You should stay home

Onyx: I don’t know

Fergus: Well I know if you go to school Emi is going to end up following you around screaming you’ve got the plague

Onyx sighs as they know their brother is probably right. Willing the swirls on their face to come through in their voice they call in that they’ll be homebound today.

Eliza: Honey you should be napping

Onyx: I was but I needed some juice

Eliza: Okay well please get back in bed after. If your dad wakes up before you go up tell him I’m walking Ginger before the social worker gets here

Onyx follows their mothers’ instructions and eventually Bob learns Eliza is out when he and Strawberry pass her and Ginger like ships in the night. Bob assures her he’ll be back home in time for their special delivery.

Here she is! Miss Tiana Pancakes, newest member of the stack. First up on the agenda once she’s dropped off is a feeding to stop her getting hungry. Then while Bob goes to set up the kitchen for the new addition Eliza plays with her daughter who may be intense but is no less adorable for it.

Eliza: You are so precious my little Tiana. Me and your daddy are going to love you forever and ever, I promise. Your older siblings will love you to, and we have two cute dogs, I’m sure you’ll like them. They’re fluffy

Tiana smiles as Eliza lifts her up for a kiss. Eliza then takes her to the playmat in the lounge for Bob to spend some time with her.

Bob: Hey there, oh you are cute as a button aren’t you? Can we have some tummy time with daddy, huh?

Very carefully he turns the infant on to her tummy and works on trying to get her to lift her head.

Bob: Come on honey, lift that head

Tiana: *cries* (but my head is heavy)

Bob: Oh dear. Eliza! What do I do

Tiana: *cries* (I don’t like this, put me back on my back)

Eliza: Just keep trying Bob, she’ll learn eventually

Bob: But I feel like I’m torturing her when she cries

Tiana: *cries* (I hate this)

Eliza: It’s just because the others went straight to toddlers

Tiana: *cries* (why won’t he turn me over)

Bob: I don’t want to be the bad guy, can’t you do it

Eliza: *sighs* Okay I’ll try later, how about giving her a nap

Bob: Yes! Come here Tiana, Daddy’s got you, yes I do

Tiana: *sniffles*

Bob cradles Tiana and softly whispers while rocking her. It doesn’t take long for the infant to fall asleep, it’s been a big day for her to.

Eliza: There Bob, not so scary now is she

Bob: She’s perfect, our daughter

Strawberry: *yaps* New human! Pink bow! Oh we’re twins

Tiana: *panics and cries* (Loud noises! What the heck is that? Does it want to eat me)

Bob: Oh no, she’s awake

Eliza: Here, I’ll take her. Think you can handle being the bad guy with the dogs

Bob: *laughs* yes. Here Tiana, here’s your mother. You’ll be safe with mother, yes you will

Tiana: *grins* (It tickles)

In Eliza’s arms Tiana suddenly remembers the scary yapping dog and begins crying all over again.

Tiana: *cries* (I’ll be eaten, goodbye cruel world)

Eliza: *shushes* There there Tiana, its okay. Strawberry is a bit loud isn’t she, don’t worry she’s just saying hello because she likes you.  Do you see, she has matching bows

Tiana doesn’t understand any of this but Eliza’s voice begins to soothe her and she feels calmer.

Eliza: See now, isn’t it better when we’re not crying huh? We can find something to smile about, yes we can

Tiana beams up at Eliza happy again.

Eliza: Now I know you’ve had a very big day but can we try to practice lifting that beautiful head

Eliza rolls Tiana on to her tummy and begins encouraging her to try and lift herself up. A couple of times she comes close but before long the crying starts again.

Tiana: *cries* (I just want to be an infant forever)

Eliza: Oh honey, it’s okay, it’s okay

Gently Eliza rolls Tiana onto her back and makes some funny faces until the young one is smiling again.

Eliza prepares some formula and gives Tiana a feeding before bed. The little girl guzzles away happily until it gets to burping time. When Eliza pats her back Tiana sicks up some of the formula on her shirt.

Eliza: Uh oh, do we have a happy spitter

Tiana: *whimpers* (If I am why does my animation look sad)

Eliza: There there honey, are you ready for bed? Mother will get you to bed

Carson didn’t want to go inside so he decided to call Onyx about what had happened with Ariadne.

Onyx: Oh damn, and you didn’t kiss her?

Carson: Well I wanted to but- like I don’t even know if it was a date or just hanging out. Why does romance have to be so confusing. Oh shoot, Nyx I gotta go, I’ve got another call

Onyx: Talk to you tomorrow, don’t forget the homework!

Sighing Carson flicked over to his other call.

Reece: Hey little bother

Carson: The hell do you want

Reece: Touchy. Look tell mum I can’t do the BBQ tonight. Samir and I can do later in the week but-

Carson: I’m not your errand boy, tell her yourself

Reece: Well I would but she’s not picking up her phone is she, must be in her painting flow

Carson: And what reason am I meant to give for your unreliability

Reece: If you must know my partner is a werewolf and is going to have to transform in about an hour

Carson: *sighs* Sure he is. I stopped believing your pranks years ago

Reece: Just tell her, dad wasn’t picking up his phone either and you know how they get if we do news via text

Carson hangs up without saying bye and goes to tell Kayleigh all about Reece’s pathetic excuse but... she seems unbothered.

Carson: But Mum he’s clearly lying to get out of it

Kayleigh: We’ll just push it for later in the week. The accolades are on tonight after all, they’ve been inviting me for years. Could you let your sisters know it’s cancelled? Thank you dear

She speeds off leaving a confused Carson but there’s no time to properly explain that Reece was indeed telling the truth. She’s got a formal outfit to throw together. She may not get nominated for accolades for her paintings but as a four star celeb she is well known. She gets there with minutes to spare.

Bob: Welcome welcome welcome to another Starlight Accolades. I’m your host tonight, Bob Pancakes. You probably recognise me from my cooking videos or as a permanent fixture in your local diner. Strap in folks because we have plenty of awards to get through

Kayleigh was approached by a blonde that she felt she should know but could not place.

Dan: Mrs Foster? Big fan!

Kayleigh: Thanks...

Dan: I’m Dan from Dan the Man, it’s a reality show. So where do you reckon they seat us celebs that aren’t up for awards

Kayleigh: I’m not convinced they ever seat anyone at this so I always take the front row

Bob: First up we have our music awards. For best streaming artist we have... Joaquin Bolton! Where are you?

Kayleigh clapped along with the audience. She hadn’t heard his music but recognised him as a neighbour of Keira’s, he’d been tending some mushrooms last time she stopped by.

Joaquin: Ahh! Thanks guys. The love you have shown my latest DJ track has been rad. Of course I couldn’t do any of it without my main support Ginger! I’m just kidding, she’s my cat. Marjorie, Sergio, I love you two! You’re the best spouses a guy could dream of. Put the coffee on because we’re staying up late tonight!

Bob: Yes well... congratulations. Now the next category-

As the awards continued the audience members shuffled around and Kayleigh found herself by an out of breath Cassandra Chopra.

Kayleigh: Hey you, you alright?

Cassandra: Just whoever is in me is pressing on my bladder

Kayleigh: Charlie said you were expecting again, congratulations. And don’t listen to what the people say, if you want a big family then you have a big family

Cassandra: Thanks Mrs Foster. I don’t know how many are on board but if it’s just one they may not be our last

Bob: And for the first time we do not have separate awards for actor and actress. Thanks to a campaign within the industry we have merged them into best actor where sims can be nominated regardless of gender. Our first recipient of this award is.... *opens envelope* Devin Villareal for her performance in Pirates of the Aegean

The room applauds and an excited Devin takes the stage.

Kayleigh: I can still remember when you three girls were playing dress up in the yard

Cassandra: *laughs* Charlie always played the male parts so she didn’t have to wear a skirt

Devin: And that is why you should always wear a life-jacket

Bob: Congratulations again Mrs Villareal. Okay folks, five more awards then we can leave, I don’t know enough of you to be comfortable in this setting

When the ceremony was over Kayleigh headed back to Sulani and got painting. All the incredible people had inspired her and she finished another masterpiece for her collection. She also contemplated moving house. While she had loved the tall walls when they moved in they could feel a bit much sometimes. She'd ask Harvey.

Onyx: Where were you before school

Carson: Trying out the skating with Ariadne

Onyx: Have you talked to her yet

Carson: Yeah we text before school and after dinner

Onyx: I meant about if your meet up was a date

Carson: Why do I have to talk about that

Onyx: By all means, don’t talk about it and let her think you’re not interested, or that you want to date Artemisia

Carson knew Onyx was right, but he wasn’t up to risking Ariadne making fun of him just yet. Instead he did his normal work on the mural while sneaking glances at Ariadne from afar.

Mrs T: Great job Carson

Carson: Oh, thanks. I’m still not sure what I want it to be yet though

Mrs T: That’s fine, it’ll tell you as you go. Did I hear the radio right this morning? Your mum is getting a star on the walk of fame?

Carson: Yeah

Mrs T: Well tell her we're all very impressed

Mrs T: Okay everyone, settle down. Phones away

Zhafira: But if it’s computer science why can’t we? Are phones not just small computers?

Mrs T: Everyone put them on silent! We need to focus. The topic we discuss today will be on the exams

Carson pulled his from his pocket to double check and saw he’d got a text at the end of lunch from Ariadne.

Ariadne: I didn’t want to interrupt you, you looked so focused! But good luck for the ceremony

She’d remembered! Although he supposed someone’s parent getting a walk of fame star was memorable. It didn’t mean she liked him. He didn’t have time to reply now but he made a mental note to send a text of thanks after class.

So all the Foster extended family traveled to Del Sol Valley for the afternoon. They watched with excitement as Kayleigh became the second active sim of mine to get the honour. First recipient was Mortimer Goth, let’s hope she has a brighter future than the now dead author.

Back in Sulani everyone and their suitcases pile in. Charlie and her wife Kaori with their dog Clover. Keira and her wife Marta. Reece and his partner Samir. Kayleigh and Carson welcome everyone while Harvey gets a head start on cooking. While Reece is playing guitar outside Samir asks Kayleigh if he can have a word with her and Harvey. Keira really hopes it’s about what she thinks it is.

Samir: Thanks. Reece and I have talked. After he finishes his degree he’d like to get engaged but, well, I’d like your permission to propose to him. And marry him. Please. I would like to marry him.

Kayleigh: Absolutely!

Harvey: Hmm

Kayleigh: Harvey that’s the most words we’ve heard Samir say at once. I think he deserves a response

Harvey: Are you going to give me grandbabies?

Kayleigh: Harvey!

Harvey: Because if you will then obviously yes

Kayleigh: Harvey!

Harvey: I’m kidding. Of course you can. We’d love you to keep him happy

Samir: *sighs in relief* Thank you

Harvey: When you told Kayleigh you could probably get him pregnant because you’re a werewolf was that like a throw away comment or?

Samir: *chuckles* I don’t think I could. Plus, imagine him pregnant

Kayleigh: *laughs* Oh he’d be too dramatic for anyone to handle

Harvey: But you will have kids right

Kayleigh: *sighs* I’m leaving before you embarrass yourself even more

Samir: We do want kids

Harvey: Good, good. Now what are your proposal plans

Samir: Big? Flashy?

Harvey: Oh he'd love that. Make sure it’s well lit and get someone to record

Samir: I will. Deanna probably

Harvey: We best get back out there before he gets suspicious. Oh I hope this means we can expect more talking from you. Not that silence isn’t golden of course but you probably need to rest your vocal chords after such a long discussion. I can say things like that you see because you’re going to be my son in law

Harvey walks out chuckling.

Samir *under his breath in confusion* white people

Carson: Hey Reece. Do you need help with your bags?

Reece: Do I need help? What’s with you?

Carson: Mum said that Samir really is a werewolf. I’m sorry for being mean on the phone about it

Reece: It’s fine, I didn’t expect you to believe me. Hey, hey, remember that time I convinced you raisins were actually dead flies? *laughing* Classic

Carson: *sarcastically* Yes, hilarious to put me off the only breakfast cereal we had

Reece: Don’t worry, seriously, it's all good

Carson: I kind of can’t help worrying. I’ve got OCD actually

Reece: Like real OCD or-

Carson: Real OCD

Reece: Oh man that must be tough

Carson: Excuse me? You’re giving me sympathy?

Reece: I did psychology last term, it’s a requisite for a bio major. OCD sounded intense

Carson: Yeah... it can be

Reece: Are you getting help with it

Carson: Yeah, I’m on some meds and have a counsellor

Reece: That’s cool. I tell Samir he should see a counsellor but he insists I’m enough. Which I love but I’m not trained. How’s the asthma

Carson: I have less symptoms but that’s because I don’t push myself to exercise

Reece: Exercise is really healthy though

Carson: I don’t need it, look at these guns

Reece: Woah, don’t hurt yourself there

Darwin: Are we going to game or what

Carson: Just let me send this selfie first

William grabs the seat by Onyx while Carson and Darwin get the spots in front of the screen.

Darwin: I can’t believe we have to have more classes with Mrs H

William: She is the senior teacher

Onyx: And the senior grump

Carson: I’m always worried she’ll give me detention again

William: I thought you were getting help for the OCD

Onyx: Don’t need to have OCD to be worried about her, I’m worried about her. Darwin you’ve got to try curb your antics when she’s teaching us

Darwin: Now where would be the fun in that

Carson: How about not getting your friends sentenced with detention by association

Darwin: Fair point. Oh come on, who threw that banana?

Onyx bursts in to laughter and Darwin throws a cushion at them.

William: Good game folks. See you all at school tomorrow

Onyx: Yeah I better see if my parents are ready to go

Carson: Any headway with Anya lately

Darwin: *sighs* I wish, she’s left me on read for two days now. How about your girl

Carson: *laughs* She’s not my girl

Darwin: She’s pretty, maybe she should be you know? It doesn’t matter that she’s younger if you like her, that's what I tell myself about Anya

Harvey: I think that dinner was a success

Kayleigh: So do I! Oh Reece called while you were doing the dishes and he and Samir are fine to come stay. Plus I let him know Carson and Charlie know about the werewolf business

Harvey: Did Carson faint with shock

Kayleigh: *laughs* No so I guess we were wrong about that

Harvey: We’ll have to keep an eye on him during the visit. Make sure he doesn’t get stressed about a werewolf being under the same roof

Kayleigh: Will you be stressed

Harvey: Not if he gives me grandbabies

After his normal morning routine Carson was delighted to see a text from Ariadne pop up on his phone.

Ariadne: Great news! They’ve opened the rink at school

Carson: How is that great news

Ariadne: Because I’ve been dying to go ice skating so bring your skates

Carson: They weigh a lot

Ariadne: Never let a little weight put you off! I like things with a little weight to them

Carson: Okay, okay, I concede

At school the news of the rink opening had gotten around and several kids had brought their skates. Carson found Ariadne at the edge of the rink looking at them with awe.

Carson: Have you ever actually skated before?

Ariadne: Carson, you're here! When I was little my grandmother took me a few times but... it has been a while

Carson: Maybe it’ll be like riding a bike and you’ll remember

Ariadne: I hope so. I'd rather not fall on my butt in front of everyone

Carson: So... got a sparkly costume hiding under the coat

Ariadne: *giggling* Do you

Carson: Drat. You told me to bring skates, not my leotard, it's back home

Ariadne: Always good to leave something for next time

Carson: *laughs* I mean you’d look much nicer in a sparkly outfit than I would

Ariadne: I think you look nice anyway

Carson: Oh, really?

Ariadne: We ah- we better get on the ice or we’ll be talking until class starts

Carson: Ladies first

Ariadne was first on the ice out of the pair with Carson close behind. He may be asthmatic but he didn’t mind something slow like ice skating. He did his best to keep up with Ariadne but he did slip over once or twice. Luckily he was behind her so felt pretty confident that she’d missed it. As the bell rang and he headed off the rink to class he missed her also wiping out.

In art class Carson was glad to see Mrs T back. She was always much calmer and knew a bunch about art. As she gave a rather detailed analysis of perspective in art he felt his skill grow.

Down the hall in social studies it was a different story.

Artemisia: *whispers* Hey Roger, yo mamas so lazy she has a stay at home job and is still late to work

Roger: Shut up Emi, you know she’s a social worker. I’m not getting suspended again because you can’t control yourself

Artemisia: Only my friends get to call me Emi. Hey Roger, yo mamas so old she was a waitress at the Last Supper

Roger: Don’t think being a girl will stop me from punching you

Artemisia: Go ahead. My Pa will sue you until yo mama is so poor the ducks throw bread at her, oh wait, she already is

The last thing Carson felt like doing on a warm morning was dressing up and getting the ferry to Copperdale, but he had no choice. That’s where the high school was, even if it was covered in several inches of snow. He quickly headed inside to the library to double check his homework. Confident he hadn’t missed anything he decided to go find some friends.

Darwin was in his usual spot, asking the milling students for some homework he could copy. Study was not his priority.

Darwin: Carson! My best buddy. How about that math homework? Can I check your answers

Carson: Math home- we didn’t have math homework

Darwin: You sure? I got a text from Anya reminding me but then I changed topics

Carson: She’s not even in our year Darwin. And isn’t she like best friends with Artemisia?

Darwin: Oh yeah. She must have taken her phone and sent me a bogus text, she takes me flirting with her friend personally for some reason

Nanami: So I’m thinking we should shift you more to the middle and then while you’ve got the flyer-

Onyx: We’ll have more room for tumbling up the left side, got it

Ariadne: Hey Onyx

Onyx: Hmm? Oh hey Ariadne. Have you met Nanami? She’s in cheer with me

Ariadne: I don’t think so. I was actually hoping I could speak with you for a minute

Onyx: Yeah sure. Catch you in math Nanami?

Nanami: Math. The best class for doodling routines in

Onyx: You all good Ariadne

Ariadne: Yeah thanks. I, um... how close are you and Carson

Onyx: Me and Carson? Oh we go way back, best friends since forever

Ariadne: Are you and he... like together?

Onyx: What? No, no. We just grew up together in scouts and stuff, our dads are best friends

Ariadne: So he... he’s not dating anyone?

Onyx: *smiling* Tell you what, he’s over there by the mural project if you wanted to check with him

Ariadne: Oh no, I mean I didn’t-

Onyx: Bye now

Carson stared at the wall. What to paint, what to paint, what to paint? He was deep in thought when he heard Ariadne talking and had to stop himself kicking over a paint can accidentally.

Carson: Sorry what?

Ariadne: Oh, ah... I just asked if you’re... painting anyone-thing at the moment

Carson: I’m trying to paint but *sighs* I don’t know how mum does it. I love art but a blank canvas and I just falter. Maybe I didn’t inherit the right genes

Ariadne: I know what you mean. My grandmother... well she did a lot and I’m not sure I can do any of it half as well

Carson: I’m sure you can, you're brilliant

Carson was busy staring at the mural but that made Ariadne smile.

Ariadne: It’s so much colder here than Sulani, how do you stand the change everyday

Carson: *shrugs* I get by. I mean I have been in snow when we lived in willow creek. Are you cold?

Ariadne: Yeah... a little bit

Carson: You should tell your dads. I’m sure they’d wrap you in furs before you could blink

Ariadne: Oh I like my animals alive thanks. Listen, could we- I wanted to ask...

The bell rung loudly and a startled Carson began to pack up, terrified of being late. If he was late his grade would go down. Or he’d get detention. And if he got detention once he was bound to keep getting it and then he’d be kicked out of school. His parents would probably die from embarrassment. Wait, Ariadne had been saying something...

Carson: Sorry, you were going to ask something?

Ariadne: Nevermind, I better get to class

Carson tucked the paints away and watched her walk off. He liked that they were both wearing green today. It was matching in a way. Not that she was likely to want to match with him. Especially if he got kicked out of school. He ran the rest of the way to class one she was out of view.

Mrs T: Hurry up, everyone sit down. Who can tell me what we did in our last math class

Darwin: Sleep

Mrs T: We all know you did Darwin, we heard you snoring

The class giggled and Darwin tried to look put out but Carson knew he loved being the centre of attention.

Carson: We were talking about how to find x if there’s more than one

Mrs T: Very good Carson. Now, who can tell me our first step to solve the written equation

Carson: Nice job on that last question Paola, it threw me for a loop

Paola: Thanks! I was practising all weekend, no way am I flunking exams this week

Onyx came over and pulled Carson aside.

Onyx: What do you think you’re doing

Carson: Talking to our friend?

Onyx: Dude did Ariadne not talk to you? I think she’s interested. Last thing you want her to see is you talking to someone attractive. Oh quick, look like you’re talking to me so I can watch Zharfina

Carson: Does she... have binoculars?

Onyx: Isn’t it adorable

After eating Carson went to work on the mural again. Every so often he checked behind him to see who was around. He hoped Ariadne would come over and talk again, he was a doofus for not giving her more attention earlier. When she did come in she made a beeline for the food and Carson was sad to see that Artemisia was there talking to her. Stupid. Artemisia was probably busy telling her that Carson was seeing half a dozen girls, or gave terrible hugs, or-

Carson got so worked up at himself he had to leave the mural to chill out upstairs before class. As it was he almost stabbed his book with his pencil several times during science class. Thank goodness he had an appointment with Chad after school.

Carson got home late from prom so treated himself to a sleep in. Before he got in to the swing of the day he decided to give downstairs an extra vacuum. There was no guarantee that Ariadne would come visit, or that she would come inside the house if she came over, but it was the safest thing to do. If he didn’t she might make a social bunny post about how he lived in a tip that he’d never live down. No, surely she wouldn’t? Best be safe though.

After polishing off breakfast he decided to give Onyx a call, they were normally up by now practicing cheer or playing with their horse.

Onyx: Sup mate

Carson: Hey! Remind me, did we have homework for science?

Onyx: A bit, stuff from the textbook. Shouldn’t take you long though, it’s multi choice with like one proper written question

Carson: Okay so I should be able to do that tonight

Onyx: Why? You got plans for the day

Carson: I might... I’ll call you later

Onyx: No problem, I'm homebound all day

Hanging up he knew there was no more avoiding. He sent Ariadne a message. She had accepted his social bunny request, he wouldn't have sent it if she hadn't suggested it herself though. He didn't want to come on too strong.

Her texts indicated she’d love to come check out the beaches and Carson excitedly got in his swimwear. He looked in his mirror before heading downstairs and decided to throw a tank shirt on as well. He had some confidence but not enough to quite go shirtless with the girl he was crushing on. Ariadne arrived just before lunch ready to hit the beaches.

Ariadne: You okay?

Carson: Yeah, just wondering which direction to head

Harvey: Ariadne would you like to see some of our family photos while you’re here

Carson: No dad, we’re leaving!

Ariadne giggled as Carson made a beeline for the backdoor.

Outside they had good weather, Carson was happy the rain had stayed away for the day.

Ariadne: So...

Carson: So...

Ariadne: Uh... is there like a spot you like most

Carson: It’s all pretty nice but if we head down this hill there’s a pretty good clean bit

Ariadne: *nervously* After you

As they walked Carson tried to think of something to say but all he could think was that Ariadne looked really cute.

Ariadne: Have you always lived here then

Carson: Oh no. I was born in Willow Creek actually. After my mum had me she decided to get a full time artist job and that gave us enough to move here. My dad... well he earns good money but it’s just a fishing gig

Ariadne: You forget, my dads may be loaded but I didn’t grow up with much. At least your dad has a job, you can be proud of that

Carson: You are too sweet

Ariadne: *blushes* Shut up

Carson: Shall we go swimming then

Ariadne: I don’t know. Are there sharks?

Carson: Sometimes but not usually close to the shore. If any come up we can just punch them on the nose

Ariadne: *giggling* That is not a thing. The poor sharks might just want friends

Carson: Fine, any come up and I’ll hug them while you swim away. Come on

Carson grabbed her hands to lead her to the water, hoping they weren’t as sweaty as they seemed. She smiled and he hoped he’d done the right thing. Once they were in the water he let go so they could swim, happy he’d pushed himself to try that.

In the water they mucked around, splashing each other and swimming in circles. They shared tales of their school teachers and the various gossip around sims they both knew. Time carried on and Carson knew he should end it, he had scouts, but surely the troop could manage without him for an afternoon. Unless of course they were hit by a meteor. But if that was going to happen then it was good he wasn’t there or he’d die to.

Ariadne: Are you sure those glasses are fine for in the water

Carson: Yeah they’ve got this coating that bounces the water right off. I can see how good you look, don’t worry *blows kiss*

Ariadne laughed and Carson hoped it was with happiness rather than her thinking he was embarrassing himself. She sighed wistfully and turned to float on her back for a while.

Ariadne: I suppose I won’t see much of you at school this week

Carson: I mean... I know we’re in different years but I’ll still be around. If you want to see me that is. Can we go to the shore for a minute, I want to give you something before you have to go home

Ariadne: Can I have a hint

Carson: Just open it and see

Ariadne: It’s a shark isn’t it

Carson: *laughs* Just open the box

Inside the box was a Tulip Shell that Carson had found the past week and he was happy to see Ariadne smile at the sight of it.

Carson: It’s the most flawless one I’ve found. Normally they get chipped on like diving gear and stuff

Ariadne: It’s lovely. Are you sure you want to give it to me?

Carson: It should be with someone just as pretty

Ariadne: *blushing* Thanks. Oh shoot the time, I better get back home

Carson: Wait, um... selfie first?

Ariadne: *laughing* Twist my arm

Carson lifted up his phone for the shot, unable to ignore the tightening in his chest when Ariadne snaked her arm around him to get in the picture properly. After she left he sat on the beach for a while, closing his eyes and playing the time back in his mind.

Tiana's thoughts will be in brackets for communication

Bob: She’s asleep, it took a while but she’s snoring now

Eliza: You do a good job with her Bob

Bob: I guess. I just feel like she deserves the world and I fall short

Eliza: Hey, you never fall short to me or our older kids. Tiana will be no different. That's just your gloomy side trying to throw you off. Now, care for some birthday celebration

Bob: But your birthday isn’t until tomorrow

Eliza: Is it? I guess I’ll go to bed by myself then

Bob: *laughs* No you don’t! Come back here, let me treat you

As normal Eliza doesn’t need much convincing to join her husband in bed.

3:30am and Tiana wakes with a start. What is she doing here? This isn’t the crib it’s… the playmat? How did she get here? Sounds like a pile of poop to her. To emphasize this she poops her diaper in angry infant mode.

Eliza: Good morning Tiana. Mother's just come to check on you

Tiana: *coos in grumpy* (wakeup time is the worst, what's so great about being awake)

Eliza: Now I’m afraid daddy seems to have come down with Starey Eyes so it’ll be you and me against the world today

Tiana: *coos in still grumpy* (daddy was going to show me cooking)

Eliza: Hey there miss grump, you really don’t like wakeup time do you? I guess we’ll have to find something fun to do

Eliza scoops up Tiana and blows a big raspberry on her tummy before carrying the grumpy infant to her ensuite. Tiana angrily fusses all the way but doesn't have enough coordination to flail out of Eliza's grip.

Eliza: Now Tiana this big thing is called a bath and here we have a seat, just for you. How about that

Tiana: *coos curiously* (is it comfy)

Eliza: Let’s take off your- oh you used your diaper, lovely

Tiana: *smiles* (it's warm in here, I think I'll pee)

Eliza nestles Tiana in the special infant seat and fills the tub with warm water and bubbles, constantly checking the temperature. Tiana smiles as Eliza tickles her nose and she tries to pat at the bubbles. When she is all clean Eliza gets her dressed and feeds her a bottle.

Bob may be feeling awful but feels like he would be a failure as a chef if he can’t make his own wife a birthday cake. Despite his head screaming at him and generally feeling dizzy he goes through the motions of cake making, luckily all the past bakes help him do the process pretty quickly given the circumstances. Then he rings in to let his boss know he’s ill before adding candles and heading back to bed.

Onyx: Happy Birthday mother! I thought you were going to have a party

Eliza: Your dad isn’t well so I decided to cancel

Onyx: Make a wish mother

Eliza: *laughs* okay, here goes

Adulthood has reached Eliza! In celebration Tiana grabs her feet for the first time and Onyx gives Strawberry a loving pat.

Eliza: Good luck for the exams

Onyx: Thank mother but I don’t need luck, I studied

Eliza: That’s my kid!

Onyx: See you after school Tiana

Tiana: *coos questioningly* (where is sibling going, sibling not leave me) *cries*

Eliza: Oh Tiana, it's alright. Onyx will be back later, yes they will

Tiana: *sniffles* (mother promise?)

Eliza works on some tummy time with Tiana who learns how to roll onto her back! Strawberry is impressed. Eliza settles the infant on the mat for a nap and goes to grab a late breakfast. She eats it on the couch while talking to the dogs. Not the birthday she imagined, but one that she doesn’t mind. Hopefully all this time at home will help her be full of energy when she returns back to work.

Eliza is happy to spend the main part of the day cleaning while Bob rests up. Once Tiana has finished her nap Eliza begins a dance workout. Soon enough she has to stop however as Tiana has begun to sparkle while she plays with her toys.

Eliza: Are you going to have a milestone honey

Tiana: *giggles and coos* (I am mother so you don't need to trade me)

Eliza: You’re laughing! Oh that’s adorable! Daddy will be impressed, yes he will

Excited at her daughter’s progress Eliza decides to give a game of peek-a-boo a go. Unfortunately Tiana worries her mother has disappeared and bursts into tears.

Tiana: *cries* (Mother is gone! Why did she leave me! Did I do something wrong? I was trying hard for her and daddy)

Eliza: Oh I’m sorry! Mother is here, mother is here

Tiana: *sniffles and coos* (promise to never leave me again mother)

Eliza scoops Tiana in her arms and cuddles the infant close until she stops sniffling. The pair are practicing sitting when Onyx and Fergus arrive home.

Eliza: How was the aquarium

Fergus: Fine, I've got homework. See you and Tiana later

Tiana: *coos and wobbles* (so this is sit)

Onyx: Mother, great news, I aced my exams! Again! Can we maybe talk about getting a horse now

Eliza: That’s it Tiana, keep your head up. Oh I don’t know Onyx, the household is pretty full

Onyx: But mother-

Eliza: Darling if you look outside does it even look like we have room for a horse

Onyx: *points* Yes it- OMG MOTHER

Eliza: Oh dear Tiana, your sibling is pretty loud when they want to be

Tiana: *giggles* (Onyx is funny)

With a chorus of thank you’s over their shoulder Onyx races outside where they spotted the foal Eliza had purchased for them.

Onyx: Oh you are pretty. What shall I call you? Hmm, I know, Maelstrom! Yeah, that’s a good name

Maelstrom: *neighs* Hi

Onyx: Oh how rude of me, are you hungry? Do you want some milk

Maelstrom eagerly grips on to the bottle Onyx holds for her and guzzles away.

Onyx: You know, I wanted a horse but a foal is even better. Now we get to spend more time together! I know I have cheer and school and stuff but I’ll be your best friend, I promise

Maelstrom: *neighs* sounds good to me

The foal spent the evening running around the property having a good time. Unfortunately the exploring took its toll and Maelstrom began to feel scared. Hearing the change in general noises from their bedroom Onyx went to comfort their new foal. Maelstrom was skittish from the new big world but with love and affection returned to being happy. Looks like Onyx is a natural.

And at midnight Bob felt well enough to put in some dad time. After giving Tiana a cuddle he knelt down and practiced sitting with her.

Bob: And up we go, how is that huh

Tiana: *giggles* (I up for daddy)

Bob: Who’s the cutest infant in the world? Is it you? Is it you sitting

Tiana: *giggles* (I am cute)

Bob: Alright and back down we go. Wait, what are you doing honey? Eliza!

Eliza comes rushing into the nursery in time to see Tiana roll from her back to her tummy all by herself. Bob is overjoyed and Eliza gives Tiana a snuggle, telling her how proud they are.

That’s it for this chapter of the Pancakes. With 3 new additions (4 if you count the dust bunny) the household is now running at maximum size. I didn't get as much done with the teens as I had planned but hey, can't make real life not happen. Thanks for your patience and support readers!