#r0910

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.

Inside the clinic Carson waited and right on time Dr Hanks showed up.

Dr H: Hello Carson, you found the clinic all right?

Carson: Yeah, I didn’t realise they just converted a house

Dr H: Don’t want to ruin the landscape and many patients feel more comfortable visiting a place that doesn’t look too official. Ah, here he is

Out of one of the rooms came a sim who looked like they belonged on a beach more than in a clinic.

Carson: You sure he’s a good fit Dr Hanks?

Dr H: He is but I’ll let him introduce himself. I’ll see you again if we need to change your prescription okay? Look after yourself Carson

Carson: Thanks

Carson was led into one of the rooms and took a seat, feeling awkward already.

Chad: My name is Chad Harrison, you can call me Chad or C, either is good. My main focus is anxiety disorders

Carson: Disorders

Chad: Disorders are just how we classify them, it’s not a reflection on your character

Carson: I guess

Chad: I’ve coached many a kid through what you’re dealing with Carson, I can help

Carson: Can you make the intrusive thoughts stop

Chad: It’s not as simple a fix as that. It’s about retraining your brain so that when they come up you can deal with them in healthy ways

Carson: So I won’t have to always spend half my day cleaning

Chad: Not at all. It will take time though, your brain has been working one way for so long, it takes time to adjust your thinking but plenty of kids I’ve dealt with can reduce symptoms

Carson: That’d be a relief. Ever since I lost my asthma inhaler I’ve been compelled to clean everything

Chad: Did Dr Hanks explain what OCD is

Carson: Yeah kinda, well the symptoms. Like I’ll get bad thoughts like, I’m going to have an asthma attack and die or my parents will die and my brain thinks if I can just do something like keep my shoes lined up in the wardrobe I can prevent it

Chad: You got it. But talk therapy will be about helping you as a person as well as someone who has OCD

Carson: So we can discuss whatever

Chad: I generally like to start sessions with a bit of catch up talk to help relax you. What’s on your mind today

Carson: My mind? Well, a girl I guess

Chad: Is she your girlfriend

Carson: Well no, I just... I just think she’s really pretty and she’s... she’s been through some stuff but is still going you know

Chad: Are you wanting to tell her how you feel or are you happy admiring from afar

Carson: I don’t know how I feel. I mean I like her and would like to go on a date and hold hands and stuff but... I worry I’m not right

Chad: Because of the anxiety?

Carson: It’s not that, it’s not even the asthma which leaves me looking much rounder than I like. It’s...

Carson really hoped Chad would jump in with exactly what his thoughts were but nope. Guess it was up to him. Damn this was awkward, but it did seem easier to talk to someone that wasn’t his parents. And it would be cold day in hell before he discussed this topic with Reece.

Carson: It’s about woohoo

Chad: I see. Well you are almost 15, it’s very normal to be having those thoughts and acting on them solo or sometimes with a partner at that age

Carson: But see... I was talking to my best mate Onyx and... well I don’t have the same kind of woohoo thoughts they do

Chad: Everyone is an individual, it would strange if you had the exact same type as your friend. Can you tell me what bothers you about having different thoughts?

Carson: Well... Onyx, and my mates Darwin and William, when they... you know... they picture people. I don’t really picture anything, it’s just about like sensations and having an itch I need to scratch that feels good once it happens

Chad: Go on

Carson: And like I never look at anyone and think, oh it could be fun to have woohoo. Like even the girl I like, I’d love to kiss and cuddle and stuff but I don’t look at her and think, I want to woohoo her. What if my brain is just not mature, and will never mature

The counsellor was silent for a moment and Carson felt his anxiety raise. This was clearly a mistake. Chad would think he was a weirdo who didn't deserve help. He should leave.

Chad: Carson have you heard about the asexual spectrum

Carson: The what?

Chad: The asexual spectrum. Probably easier to start more basic, you know how gender is a spectrum?

Carson: Yeah, Onyx is genderfluid and their current pronouns are they/them

Chad: Attraction is also a spectrum

Carson: Yeah I know I’m bi. Mum hoped one of us kids would be pan like her but I feel like bi just fits me better

Chad: What isn’t often made clear to growing kids is that romantic attraction and woohoo attraction are different things, and they don’t have to match. Am I wrong to assume if you identify as bi you have wanted to date boys and girls

Carson: Yeah, especially pretty ones

Chad: Based on what you’ve been saying I think you may be biromantic but fall somewhere on the asexual spectrum, which is part of woohoo attraction

Carson: So I’m not just a wuss?

Chad: You’re not a wuss for not wanting to woohoo, there are plenty of reasons not to in any scenario. Anyone who forces you to woohoo or says you have to is in the wrong, you understand?

Carson: Yeah, I know about consent. But what is an asexual spectrum

Chad: Basically it’s for people who feel less woohoo attraction than the average person. There are some people who need an emotional connection before they’ll feel attracted to their partner in a woohoo way. The spectrum stretches from them all the way to people who never experience woohoo attraction. It doesn’t make you immature to not feel any woohoo attraction, there are many people who identify along the spectrum. As for wuss there are also variants for how touch averse a person is or isn't, and that comes from preference not cowardice

Carson: I’m just worried if I ask her on a date but I don’t want to woohoo I’m like... leading her on

Chad: You’re still young Carson, it’s possible the thought of woohoo hasn’t even crossed her mind. Don't feel like you need to grow up any faster than is comfortable. You said you like her right

Carson: Right

Chad: So there is nothing false in that. Don’t focus on what might happen in the far future, if you want to hold her hand now then you want to hold her hand now. Cross the other bridges when you come to them

Carson: I guess you’re right

Chad: Okay, you ready to start working on the OCD now

Carson: After that conversation it’s bound to be a breeze

Chad: *laughs* That’s the spirit

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.

As soon as school was over Carson sped to the art room where Ariadne had been for the afternoon.

Ariadne: YES!

Scarlett: I knew it

Roger: Hey Carson

Ariadne and Scarlett broke apart and Ariadne turned to him beaming.

Ariadne: All set to go?

Carson: Yep, just need my date?

Ariadne stood giggling and went to follow him out of the room. Looking back Scarlett mouthed for her to text her afterwards and Ariadne nodded.

The pair walked through the centre of town catching up on the day and their classes. When they got to the shop snow began to fall and Carson began to laugh.

Ariadne: What’s so funny

Carson: I guess I'm just wondering if this is our first or second date. I'm a bit nervous

Ariadne: Hey don’t be nervous

She took his hands and Carson felt himself flush.

Ariadne: We’re just going to chat like we’ve done dozens of times via text. It’s in person sure but that’s great, I’m really glad you asked me. How about we say it's our second date, would that make it easier? Less worry?

Carson nodded and smiled.

The pair sat down and talked. Ariadne told Carson more about her life growing up. Since her parents left it was just her and her grandmother. Then of course her grandmother got arrested and she got put in the foster system. She’d bounced around many places but after meeting Alexander and James it felt like she had a place to belong again.

Ariadne: I keep wanting to say, thanks dad, but I’m worried James would have a heart attack

Carson: I’m sure they’d love to hear how you feel

Ariadne: Maybe. I’m worried they’ll just think I’m conning them like my grandmother did to... well... everybody

Carson: We’re more than our family right? We’re individuals

Ariadne: That’s true, we’re us

The afternoon sped along and before Carson knew it it was time to catch the ferry home.

Carson: See you tomorrow. I might be a bit in my head before the exams but-

Ariadne: Take me home at the end of the day then? We can chat when you’re not trying to remember ten dozen answers

Carson: Sounds perfect

Charlie: Don’t be so worried dad, he’s probably just on a date

Harvey: Isn’t he young for a date

Samir: I dated Reece when he was 15

Harvey: Yeah and then you- *eyes widen* oh... Kayleigh and I need to give him the woohoo talk

Charlie: Calm down dad. From the conversation this morning he’s clearly not there yet

Samir: We didn’t woohoo while he was here sir

Harvey: Sure you didn’t

Charlie: Dad, go fish or something. We’ll text when he’s back so you know he's alive

A little after 8 Carson made it back and headed straight for the fridge. Looking around for somewhere to eat he decided the safest bet was Samir, he was bound not to ask him probing questions. As he walked in the lounge Samir nodded his acknowledgement but didn’t stop eating, perfect. Siting on the couch he noticed for the first time how quickly Samir really ate, he’d finished half his plate before Carson had more than a couple of bites.

Reece came in just as he was finishing.

Reece: Hey loser, did you get lucky or what

Carson: *scoffs* None of your business moron, I’m going to my room

As he left and the sounds of guitar floated from his room Samir looked accusingly at Reece.

Reece: What?

Samir: *growls* You said you’d be on good behaviour

Reece: Now now, if I was well behaved all the time there would be no need for your special brand of discipline *kisses cheek* I’ll be a good boy tomorrow. Are you doing okay away from home lover? If you're too stressed we can-

Samir: If you’re with me, I'm more than okay

The next day was bright and sunny! The guests would be heading home while Carson was at school.

Kayleigh: I’m thinking best man, maid of honour, and four others in the wedding party

Samir: Shh, he could hear. Carson, change topics, please

Carson could see Samir was uncomfortable with whatever his mum was saying so figured why not?

Carson: Burgers for breakfast?

Samir: Reece made them

Carson: He’s awake this early?

Kayleigh: We’re taking a family picture before your ferry, you bet I’ve told him he has to be awake by now

*phone beeps*

Carson: Oh it’s a text, sorry

Charlie: How’d your date go then

Carson: Fine I think

Kayleigh: So she’s your girlfriend now? My youngest baby in a relationship?

Carson: I don’t know, is she? Is that how it works?

Charlie: If you’re not sure you should talk about it. You may not want to but trust me, she will. Don’t be an arse who strings her along okay?

Family photo!

Top row left to right: Samir Hadji, Reece Foster, Kayleigh Foster, Harvey Foster, Kaori Nishidake, Charlie Nishidake

Bottom row: Keira Romero, Carson Foster, Marta Romero

And of course we couldn’t say bye for now to guests Reece and Samir without them autonomously kissing like there’s no tomorrow.

For the first time in years all the Fosters had lain down to sleep under one roof. Harvey and Kayleigh enjoyed having a large family. For the most part everyone got along well, the girls were especially close. Carson and Reece liked to get on each others nerves of course but at the end of the day they were family. Kill each other, kill for each other, it was a narrow line.

Marta: Buenos Diaz

Reece: Morning Marta

Marta: You cooking?

Reece: For Samir, he likes meat in the mornings

Marta: I saw him eating veges Harvey prepped

Reece: Yeah he’s also a fan of seconds, and thirds. He's a bit of a glutton but I love him

Inside Harvey and Kayleigh were trying to talk to Samir but despite his conversation the previous evening Samir still wasn’t much of a talker, choosing to nod and murmur most of the time.

Keira: Why did you cook if you’re having sushi?

Reece: I look after my partner, but we hardly ever eat the same thing

Keira: Because of... him being a werewolf?

Samir: I like meat

Reece: Yeah he’s a big fan of fresh meat, the hunting is pretty good in Moonwood Mill

Harvey: Do you get much trouble when you run in to bears and what not?

Reece: *sighs dramatically* Do I have to tell you all a thousand times? There are NO BEARS in Moonwood Mill

*phone noise*

Reece: Ohhh, texting someone before school?

Carson: None of your business

Reece: That's what I said about my journal, didn't stop you. Who is it? It’s Deanna’s little sister isn’t it? *singing* Carson and Emi sitting in a tree

Carson: What? No!

Reece: But it is someone you like? Knew it

Carson: I didn’t say that

Charlie: Reece leave him be if he doesn’t want to talk about it

Keira: But if you want to brainstorm we’re here

Carson: Fine. She’s a girl from school, Ariadne. The blonde one you teased me about on the beach idiot

Keira: Wait wait wait- Alexander’s kid? Omg he’s gonna flip if she's dating already

Carson: Thanks

Reece: To think, Keira and I were at his wedding a few years ago and now you’re dating his daughter

Carson: Can you not? We’re not dating

Reece: Well do you want to date her

Carson: Yeah but it’s hard

Reece: If you like her you gotta ask her on a date, let her know you’re interested

Carson: I mean I think she’s flirted back... but what if she rejects me

Reece: Then you cry and you move on to someone else

Charlie: Look at him trying to be all wise when he was in knots about his crush

Reece: I wasn’t in knots!

Keira: Sure you weren’t, you were just moping around the house for fun. You’re together now so it’s fine. Carson, I do have to agree with Reece

Reece: Because I’m a genius

Keira: Because he’s right about taking the plunge. If you have feelings you’ve got to let her know. Who knows, maybe she has feelings and is waiting for you to make the first move. I was afraid to let Marta know how I felt before she made it clear she was attracted to me

Charlie: Ask her out, today. And if you strike out come home after school and we’ll have a water balloon fight. You can throw the whole bucket at Reece's head

Reece: HEY

Carson decided to listen to his siblings, but maybe not right away. At school he worked on the mural before class while Ariadne took time skating. Sure Carson could have joined her but he’d promised himself the next time he saw her he’d ask her out properly, and he really didn’t want to do that while flailing about on ice. He got to class early and composed a text to her before Mrs H could yell at them about phones.

Hey Ariadne, sorry I didn’t catch you this morning but I’d like to chat at lunch? I’ll be upstairs if you want to chat but no pressure. Enjoy gym class

When the time came he raced upstairs. She wasn’t there so he sat and tried to remember a breathing exercise Chad had taught him.

Ariadne: Carson?

Carson: Hi! Oh you look really nice

As she thanked him he reached for her hands again, happy that she didn’t pull back.

Carson: So I was thinking about when we went swimming together and I had a really good time

Ariadne: So did I

Carson: Would you like to do it again? Not like swimming but there’s stuff in town here

Ariadne: Like a... date?

Carson: Yes. Yes, I’m trying to ask you on a date

Ariadne: Hmm, let me check my schedule

Carson felt his chest tighten as she pulled out her phone and flicked through it. This was it. She was going to reveal she'd been recording him and his awful attempt at romance would be uploaded and go viral and then he'd die of embarrassment-

Ariadne: Ah, just like I thought. I’m completely free anytime

She burst in to giggles and Carson let out some nervous laughter.

Carson: Was that completely necessary

Ariadne: I’m sorry, you just looked so serious

Carson: I- I just get worried

Ariadne pulls him in for a hug and he likes how it feels. Maybe hugging could be okay.

Ariadne: I didn’t meant to make you worry. I’d like to go on a date with you Carson. What did you have in mind

She pulls out of the hug but takes hold of his hand, giving a reassuring squeeze.

Carson: Well we could check out that shop in town that’s like a bubble tea place and a clothes place

Ariadne: Sure. Collect me after class okay?

Carson: Yeah, I’m looking forward to it

Carson’s afternoon class went by slowly, he was busy thinking about the date. A proper date! And she’d said yes. Now, how to not stuff it up...

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

Even Sulani was not immune from rain. Carson got out of bed at the cry of his alarm and headed to his bathroom. He liked that there was more space, and it had a nice view even with the downpour, but it didn’t make having to shave before school any easier. When he was clean and dressed and finished breakfast he decided to call his older sister, just to check about sharks.

Carson: I know it’s early but can you please tell me if sharks can break through my floor

Marta: Hola Carson, Keira is in the shower

Carson: Oh, sorry, I didn't even think about you answering her phone

Marta: It’s bueno. She told me on honeymoon sharks are pretty safe. Most attacks are from thinking a human is a fish. They will not break through your floor

Carson: Are you sure

Marta: Si, I promise. She said from underneath surfboards look like seals *laughs* isn’t that cute? But your house will not look like a big seal

Kayleigh had the day off and spent it doing what she loved most, painting! After finishing a particularly excellent painting she got a call from her regular gallery. News around the town was that Kayleigh Foster was now a global superstar! They hoped she would remember them in her future works and they had recommended her for a star of fame in Del Sol Valley! Once she got a call from the council she couldn’t contain her excitement and called around her family to let them know.

Charlie: You’re really going to get a star?

Kayleigh: That’s the rumor. You’ll all come right? I couldn’t have done it without my family. And after maybe everyone can stay for a couple of days, this house has enough room

Charlie: Of course but don’t you want to celebrate like... without your kids

Kayleigh: Your dad suggested a dinner party for my friends tonight which will be nice. He’s going to ring around on his afternoon break

When Carson got home he congratulated his mum and sat down to do his homework where he could talk to her and his eldest sister.

Carson: So everyone will be invited to stay? Even Reece?

Kayleigh: *sighs* You’ll be at school a lot of the time, don’t worry about Reece

Charlie: Besides, he’s less snarky with you when Samir is around. It’s like he tries to be well behaved or something

Carson: Charlie you know he tried convincing me Samir is a werewolf! As if I'd fall for that

Kayleigh: Actually that is true

Charlie: Mum... have you been inhaling the paint fumes for to long?

Kayleigh: No! Samir told me. Your dad and I have discussed it at length. It’s strange but true

Charlie: When were you going to tell us?

Kayleigh: I wasn’t but clearly Reece doesn’t mind you knowing

Carson: Great, another thing he can make fun of me for not knowing

Kayleigh: I know you two fight but he loves you really

Charlie: Have you told him about the OCD yet

Carson: No. Do you think I should?

Kayleigh: It’s always your choice darling

Carson: Maybe. I’ll think about it since he’s willing to open up about Samir

Kayleigh: Do you want to invite some friends over? Me and your dad will be out here with our guests so the living room will be empty

Carson: Yeah I’ll see if the guys and Onyx are free, thanks Mum

Charlie: Mum that picture is gorgeous, is that Ariel? Can I have it? Please please please

Kayleigh: *laughs* Okay firstborn, it’s yours

Charlie: YES

Harvey greeted the guests as they arrived to celebrate his wife. Most of them were from back when they lived in Willow Creek but Kayleigh had also asked him to invite two he’d never met before, Suzanna and Adam Kightstone.

Harvey: Nice to meet you. I’m glad you could make the trip from Chestnut Ridge

Suzanna: Of course! She deserves a celebration

Adam: Oh wow, look at all her art! This is so much more than the gallery pieces

Harvey: Yes if she paints masterpieces she likes to keep them at home

Kayleigh: Food everyone! We’ve made a gorgeous salad for starters

Suzanna: Now remember we’re here for my friend, not to fly off the handle if the food isn’t right

Adam: Alexander is the food critic, I just do art

Suzanna: Adam I’m serious. She’s never judged us for being aliens, it’s important

Adam: Don’t worry starlight, I can keep a level head for a night for you. Let’s go see what humans choose to put in their salads, how many fruits do you think we'll find?

Bob: You must be proud

Harvey: Oh I am! How a fisherman like me managed to catch her I’ve no idea. Anyway we’ll be celebrating your success soon. Bob is a chef see

Adam: Oh yes I’ve read the reviews, everyone seems to love your food. Any plans of opening your own place?

Bob: Eventually but I know Eliza would like me to have a stable well paying job for a while first, especially now we have Tiana. She’s our youngest, we adopted her

Suzanna: I would have loved a girl but we have two boys

Bob: Well just wait until they grow up, Onyx surprised me, and Aaron's Artemisia. You may have a daughter under your roof and just not know it yet

Calista: If Emisia ever crosses a line just tell us and we’ll talk to her about her manners

Kayleigh: From what I can tell Carson isn’t too bothered by her. He was a bit stressed after prom but I think he has girl on the brain for now

Aaron: It’s a relief there’s some kids that are unbothered

Eliza: Fergus is also unbothered worse luck

Aaron: I know you think Emisia is a bad influence but-

Eliza: Oh they have always been thick as thieves. I don’t think I could pry their friendship apart with a crowbar. It helps that she has a lawyer for a dad though, hopefully that'll stop them getting up to anything illegal

Chad: How are you today Carson

Carson: Not good. I mucked up at school

Chad: Oh? It’s not exam season is it

Carson: No. I just... I was painting and Ariadne came to talk to me and then the bell rang and all my intrusive thoughts started up and she didn’t finish what she was saying. She probably thinks I’m a rude idiot

Chad: Carson, remember how we talked about mind reading?

Carson: Sort of. It’s like imagining what another person is thinking

Chad: Yep. It’s also a notoriously unreliable train of thought. There’s no way for us to know what someone else is thinking

Carson: Unless we ask?

Chad: Exactly. So while it might be easy to imagine that everyone is thinking the worst of us, it doesn’t make it true. How have you found talking to her when the intrusive thoughts are more quiet?

Carson: Good. Really good. I held her hands and it felt great

Chad: Have you read up on asexuality at all?

Carson: Oh I have and it was good! Like just... exactly what I feel and think has a name. It was... validating. Yeah, validating. I don’t know how touch averse I am, I guess I’ll find out with time

Chad: I’m glad to hear that. Is there anything else you want to discuss before we get to today’s workshop?

Carson: No I’m good

Chad: Great. So last time was all about identifying your symptoms and thoughts. Today we’re going to revise that and discuss some ways to apply reasoned arguments to those thoughts

After he had finished with Chad, Carson hoped on the ferry home and gave his mum a call.

Carson: Hey Mum, my session is all finished. Do you need me to grab anything on the way home

Kayleigh: Oh sweetie I’m sending the new address to your phone

Carson: New address?

Kayleigh: YES! The movers came while you were at school and we’re all set up

Carson: So strangers were touching my stuff? Mum do you know how many germs they could have left?

Kayleigh: We got you some brand new stuff to, don’t worry. You’re going to love it. If you want to clean anything I can help, okay?

Carson worried all the way to the new house. People touching his stuff? When he got there he was pleased to see there were no internal stairs though, much safer. Kayleigh showed him his room and while he was apprehensive he couldn’t deny that his mum had done a good job of preserving his things. Once he was settled Kayleigh left him to do his homework. The light here was much nicer to, but he’d probably have to be careful for mold with his room sitting above the water. Could sharks break through floors like Lachrymose Leeches if they smelled food on him?

Harvey: How’d your appointment go? Are you liking Chad

Carson: Yeah he’s really chill. Helps me not feel so stressed

Kayleigh: I’m sorry we didn’t give you a heads up about the move but we didn’t want you to make yourself sick with worry before we were here

Carson: *sighs* It’s not cool mum

Harvey: It wasn’t just her, we decided together. Be mad at both of us if you are

Carson: Do sharks break through floors?

Kayleigh: I don’t think so but if you want to know I’m sure your sister knows

Harvey: She is a marine biologist

Carson: Yeah I might do that

Kayleigh: And we’re hiring a maid. They’ll come every weekday and clean however much of your room and bathroom you want

Harvey: You’re so smart sugar

Carson: Oh watcher, could you wait until I’m out of the room before kissing? Yeesh

Our first visitor was eldest child Charlie!

Harvey: You found us!

Charlie: Too easily. The paparazzi are going to find you here you know

Harvey: As if, I don’t think they know where Sulani even is. Come play chess?

Charlie follows her dad to the back porch, gives her mum a kiss on the cheek hello, and sets down to play. Harvey however is not a great player and the game is soon over with Charlie the victor.

Kayleigh: Alright my turn

Charlie: You think you can win

Kayleigh: I taught you how to play remember

Charlie: Yeah with a long gap and more kids in the middle

Kayleigh: I’ve been tuning my skills for promotion, you’ll see

Indeed Charlie does. Although she does her best to distract her mum during the game with claims of spotting sea monsters in the distance, Kayleigh is the final victor of the night.