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Tides of Elegance

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Baron Caleb and Baroness Cleo Martin of Newcrest are an elderly merfolk couple who have everything going for them, except for one thing: their daughter Aisling.

They love their daughter deeply. However, Cleo is one of those elderly women always eager for a grandchild, and Aisling, at 40 years old, has never married. This worries Cleo, who feels Aisling’s biological clock is running out. It’s a societal expectation that weighs heavily on Cleo, who believes that family and traditional milestones define happiness.

Aisling, on the other hand, is not too concerned. She believes that love should come naturally and doesn't want to rush into marriage just to satisfy her mother's desires. For her, self-acceptance is paramount. She knows there are other ways to start a family than just getting pregnant, and believes the right man for her is out there somewhere, waiting for the right moment.

_____

The three of them swam in their enormous indoor pool, a shimmering oasis in the basement. The warm water enveloped them like a comforting embrace, and the gentle sound of splashing echoed off the tiled walls. Sunlight filtered through small windows, casting playful patterns on the surface, while lily pads floated lazily, adding a whimsical touch. The scent of chlorine blended with fresh water, creating an invigorating atmosphere.

After some time, Cleo and Caleb emerged from the pool, their tails transforming into human legs with a graceful flick. Cleo wrapped a soft, fluffy towel around her shoulders, the fabric warm against her skin. She went into a room where she can dress up in normal everyday clothes privately, and got back out to meet with Caleb who is also now dressed up

“Let’s go watch the news,” she suggested, her voice bright with enthusiasm.

“Good idea,” Caleb replied, leading the way upstairs. His tone was calm, laced with dry humor. They were a rare elderly couple who still enjoyed each other’s company after 41 years of marriage, and their playful banter was a testament to their enduring bond.

Cleo thrived on creating memorable experiences. A tomboy at heart, she loved adventure and spontaneity, which contrasted with her studious nature. Their home reflected her lavish taste, adorned with treasures collected from their many travels. The living room, round and airy, was filled with natural light, showcasing elegant statues that stood proudly behind the plush couches.

As they settled onto two of the three inviting red couches, Cleo's expression shifted.

“I’m still concerned about Aisling,” she said, her voice dropping to a whisper.

“Not this again, Cleo,” Caleb replied, shaking his head. “You know that every time you bring up marriage, she just rolls her eyes and tells you not to worry.”

Cleo crossed her arms, her expression firm. “I know, but she is 40 years old! She should have married by now. And how on earth is she making money being on social media?”

Caleb glanced at the flickering news on the television, the images illuminating their faces. "She is a famous influencer. That’s how.”

"What do you mean she is a famous influencer?" Cleo asked, curiosity piqued, disbelief coloring her voice.

"She has one million followers on social media and is a Simtagram star. She’s a beauty Simtagramer; she is not a singer.”

Cleo's eyes widened. "Really?"

"Yes," said Caleb, nodding, his tone matter-of-fact.

"Do you think we could make her a bridezilla if we hired a man to pretend to be a fan to ask her out? I want to see her happy," Cleo said, leaning forward, her voice hopeful.

Caleb chuckled softly, shaking his head. "No, that is not a good idea, Cleo. Let her find her own way."

"Please?" she asked, her voice sweetening as she leaned closer, a playful pout on her lips.

"No, we need to let her do this on her own. When she is ready, she will find the right man," Caleb said, his tone reassuring but firm.

"Fine," said Cleo, giving up with a dramatic sigh. "I will leave her alone."

Just then, Aisling entered the living room, her presence brightening the space.

"Hi, Mom! Hi, Dad!" she greeted, her smile warm and genuine.

"How's my sweetie?" Cleo asked, her voice dripping with affection.

Aisling rolled her eyes playfully. "Mom! Stop calling me sweetie."

"Sorry," Cleo said, raising her hands in mock surrender.

"What were you and Dad talking about?" Aisling asked, settling down on the couch opposite her parents, her posture relaxed yet curious.

"About nothing. We are watching the news," said Caleb, glancing at the screen with a casual air.

"We can turn the TV off if you want, sweetie," said Cleo, a hopeful glint in her eyes.

"Stop, Mom!" Aisling snapped, crossing her arms, clearly annoyed.

“Aisling,” Caleb said gently, his tone soothing, “Your mother is worried about you being over 40, never married, and about your job.”

Aisling sighed, running a hand through her hair, a gesture of frustration. "Mom, I already told you not to worry. If it happens, it happens. It's not the end of the world."

"But I want to be a grandma," Cleo said, her voice tinged with desperation.

"Well, when the right guy comes, you will be a grandma, but please stop nagging me about it," Aisling replied, her frustration bubbling to the surface.

“But no man will marry you because you’re over 40,” Cleo countered, her voice steady and firm.

Aisling's eyes widened. "That is not true! There are plenty of men who will date and marry a woman over 40."

"Yes, but only if they are ugly," Cleo said, crossing her arms defiantly, a teasing smile playing on her lips.

"Mom!" Aisling exclaimed, her cheeks flushing.

"You look great and beautiful. You’ve dated a lot, but none of those relationships ended up in marriage for some reason,” Cleo said, her tone softening.

Aisling ran her fingers along the couch, visibly upset. "I've been dating since I was 18. And all the guys I have dated were terrible. The last guy I dated was the worst."

"Oh? What did he do?" asked Caleb, genuinely curious, his eyes wide.

"He cheated on me with a girl who was an ex he wanted to get back with. I don't know why, but he wanted to get back with her," Aisling said, her voice growing quieter, the sting of rejection still fresh in her mind.

"Because he thinks she is more attractive and hotter than you," said Cleo, her tone blunt.

Aisling's eyes narrowed, frustration evident.

Caleb raised a hand, trying to mediate. "Cleo, that is enough. You need to give Aisling time to find the right man."

"Fine," said Cleo, her tone shifting. “And I don’t think that what you are doing on social media is what I would call a job.”

Aisling sighed, exasperated. "You will never quit, will you, Mom?"

"I'm just saying that is not a job," said Cleo, her voice firm, her expression determined.

"Actually, it is," said Aisling, her eyes narrowing. "If I didn't have a job, then how do you think I'm able to live here? Being a baroness is only a title and not a career.”

"But your dad and I are paying the mortgage," Cleo shot back, her voice rising slightly, the pressure of societal norms looming over them.

"Yes, I know," Aisling said, her voice softening. "But I like my job."

Cleo groaned, clearly frustrated.

"What are your plans tonight, Aisling?" asked Caleb, trying to change the subject, his tone lightening.

“I will be doing my job on social media,” said Aisling. “I will be reviewing some makeup that the Mystique Makeup company just sent me in the mail.”

"Makeup?" asked Cleo, her interest piqued.

"Yes," said Aisling.

“How do you get paid?” asked Cleo, genuinely curious now.

"The makeup company sends me a box full of products, and I put it on, review it, and take pictures and videos of myself using it," said Aisling. “And they pay me to advertise their product.”

"That is weird," said Cleo, her brow furrowing, the generational gap evident.

"No, it's not," said Aisling, her confidence returning. "There are thousands of other girls and even guys who do the same thing. We are called beauty influencers, and we get a lot of money from the companies that we work with."

"Really?" asked Caleb, intrigued.

"Yes. So there is no need to worry about me getting a job and working. I'm fine doing my job," said Aisling, her resolve strong. She felt a sense of pride in her independence, a rejection of societal expectations.

Cleo was about to open her mouth, but Caleb beat her to it.

"That's good. Have fun. I'm sure you will make a lot of money," said Caleb, offering a reassuring smile.

"Thank you," said Aisling, feeling a mix of gratitude and frustration. She got up and went upstairs to the library.

Cleo waited until her daughter was out of earshot and turned to her husband.

"Do you think that she will ever find a man to marry?" asked Cleo, her voice filled with concern.

“Cleo!” said Caleb with a sigh. “Please drop it.”

___

The Martin private library is one you would usually find in any mansion. It's a room with a masculine feel to it, with dark brown colors and oak wood everywhere. The scent of polished wood and aged books filled the air, a comforting aroma that evoked a sense of history. Bookshelves lined the walls, overflowing with tomes of every size, their spines glinting in the warm light. A large, sturdy table sat in the middle, perfect for reading or working.

Next to the entrance was a glass desk with a sleek computer and a comfortable desk chair. A ring light stood beside it, ready to illuminate Aisling's videos with a soft glow.

Aisling entered and turned on the computer, the ring light, and the camera. She grabbed a remote with one button, which would zoom in and out as needed.

Once the computer was up and running, she pulled out the chair and sat down. With fingers trembling slightly with excitement, she retrieved the makeup kit from underneath the desk, laying out the products before her.

The camera pointed at the makeup and her.

Aisling opened a video app on her computer, hit record, and stood up in front of the camera.

"Hi everyone, I'm Aisling Martin, the Baroness of Newcrest, and today I'm doing a makeup product review. This is from a company called Mystique Makeup."

Aisling pressed the button on the remote in her hand, and the camera zoomed in on the products.

"As you can see, this is their new collection. Today, I'm going to be reviewing their eyeshadow, lipstick, and eyeliner. These are some of the best and highest-quality makeup products out there. But will they pass my test and approval?"

Aisling started with the eyeshadow, which was the first thing shown in the video.

“First, I’ll start off with this eyeshadow called…”

She held up the palette to the camera.

“. . .Mystical Dreams.”

The camera zoomed in and focused on the eye palette.

"This has 12 colors, and they are all shimmery and sparkly, but the thing is…"

The camera focused on Aisling as she took her makeup brush and brushed the top of the Mystical Dreams eyeshadow color, a huge cloud of sparkles and glitter puffing out.

"They are very sparkly, but…"

She applied the eyeshadow to her eyelids, and when the camera zoomed in, there was a lot of glitter in her eye.

"And, I'm not going to lie… it does feel very nice on my face."

Aisling moved on to the next eyeshadow, and the same thing happened.

"As you can see, I have a lot of glitter and sparkle on my face."

She put down her eyeshadow brush and picked up the eyeliner.

"This eyeliner from Mystique Makeup is called…."

She showed it to the camera.

“. . .Darkest Night.”

"Now…"

She applied the eyeliner, and once she finished, the camera focused on her closed eyes.

"Look at this…"

Aisling kept her eyes closed for a few seconds, the eyeliner sparkling and shimmering.

"It's sparkly," said Aisling in a monotone voice.

"Sparkly, shiny, and… it is the perfect eyeliner to wear for a night out, or if you want to go for that smoky eye look. As you can see."

Aisling applied more to her eyes. She put down the eyeliner, and then the camera focused on the lipstick.

"This is Mystic Rose, and it is a matte deep red, and it looks very good on me."

She applied the lipstick and smacked her lips together.

"It is the perfect shade…"

She did another close-up on her lips, making them the focus of the video.

"This is definitely one of the best… It is the perfect color… you should buy it."

Aisling then moved back so that she was in front of the camera again.

"Overall, these are great products, and I give all of these…"

The camera went back and forth from her face to the makeup.

"Five stars,” she continued. “If you enjoyed this review, just hit the follow button..."

She pointed to the top right corner of the video.

". . .like this video, and make sure to share it with your friends."

Aisling gave a wink and a smile at the camera.

"This is Aisling Martin, the Baroness of Newcrest. Bye."

She waved before turning off both the camera and the ring light. Sitting back at her computer, she posted the video on Simtagram. Once finished, she opened her phone and tapped on the Cupid’s Corner app.

Scrolling through her page, she clicked the inbox icon. A few messages awaited her, and she went through them, sending replies.

One message caught her eye from a male suitor.

Hello Aisling. I'm new to Cupid's Corner, and I'm interested in talking with you.

Aisling clicked the send reply button, her heart fluttering with a mix of excitement and anxiety.

___

A few days later, Aisling stepped out of her limo, her heart fluttering with anticipation. She was at the Oak and Barrel Bar in Chestnut Ridge for her date with Jason O’Connor. The bar had a rustic charm, with wooden beams overhead and the warm glow of lanterns casting a cozy light throughout the space. Wheelbarrows filled with vibrant flowers and decorative items were scattered around, adding a touch of country flair. The sound of laughter and clinking glasses created a lively ambiance, making her feel a mix of excitement and nerves.

As she approached the entrance, Aisling spotted Jason outside the bar, looking just like his profile picture. He was in his twenties, with short brown hair, wearing sunglasses, a red t-shirt, and dark denim shorts. His youthful energy was evident as he stood there, waiting for her. In that moment, Aisling felt the pressure of societal expectations weighing on her—what would her mother say if she knew she was dating someone so much younger?

Jason walked up to Aisling and greeted her with a kiss on the cheek, his smile bright and inviting. "Hi, Jason," Aisling said, feeling a rush of nerves.

"Hey," he replied, his eyes sparkling with enthusiasm.

"Did you wait long?" she asked, glancing around at the bustling bar, trying to distract herself from her anxiety.

"No," he replied casually, gesturing toward the door. "Let's get inside and grab a drink."

As they entered the bar, the scent of grilled food wafted through the air, mixing with the sweet smell of cocktails. Aisling's stomach rumbled, reminding her that she hadn’t eaten since breakfast. She ordered some food, her hands slightly trembling as she fidgeted with her phone, while Jason ordered a drink. And they went and sat at a nearby talk.

“So, what do you do for a living?” Aisling asked, trying to steer the conversation to a comfortable place.

"Well, right now, I’m a personal trainer, but my goal is to become an actor," he said, his voice filled with ambition, eyes gleaming with excitement.

"An actor?" Aisling replied, intrigued, leaning closer as she sensed his passion. She admired his ambition, reflecting on her own dreams and the societal pressures that often overshadowed them.

"Yeah, I’ve always loved acting. I’m good at it, too! I’ve done some theater and community productions, and I was part of the school's production," he said, his enthusiasm infectious.

"That's great! Do you have any movies or anything to show?" Aisling asked, her eyes shining with interest.

"Yeah, let me pull it up on my phone," said Jason, scrolling through his videos. He showed her a clip of him in the local production of Grease. The energy of the performance filled the small space between them.

"You were really good!" Aisling said, genuinely impressed, her smile wide. In that moment, she felt a connection, a shared understanding of pursuing dreams despite societal pressures.

Jason smiled, a hint of pride in his eyes. "Thanks," he said, looking a bit shy.

"Do you have any more videos?" she pressed, eager to see more of his work.

"I do, but they’re not on this channel," he said, a little sheepishly.

"Well, then, what are you waiting for? Let's see some more," Aisling encouraged, her enthusiasm palpable.

Jason chuckled, surprised by her encouragement, and showed her the rest of his clips. Each one showcased his talent and charisma, and Aisling found herself captivated by his passion. In that moment, she realized how important it was to embrace one’s dreams, regardless of age or societal expectations.

When he finished showing her the videos, Aisling turned to him, her eyes bright. "Wow, you are really good."

Jason smiled, a bit more confident now. "Thank you."

As their food arrived, the conversation flowed easily. Aisling felt a warm feeling spreading in her chest. "I don't mean to pry," she said, curiosity getting the better of her, "but why aren't you auditioning?"

"Because I'm not a very good actor," he replied, a hint of defeat in his tone.

"Are you kidding? You were amazing in those videos! You're really good. You should totally audition for roles," Aisling insisted, her voice filled with encouragement.

"Well, I have, but they didn't want me," said Jason, his voice tinged with disappointment.

"But you haven't gotten cast yet, so how do you know?" Aisling pressed, her determination shining through.

"Because I was never cast."

"That's because they haven't given you a chance," Aisling said, her hands gesturing animatedly. "Don't give up. If you really want to be an actor, then you should keep trying. You should go to auditions, and if you get a part, great. If not, then that's okay. You will find the right part someday."

Jason smiled, touched by her belief in him. "Thanks," he said, his voice softening.

"For what?" asked Aisling, tilting her head, genuinely curious about his reaction.

"For believing in me," he replied, a sincere smile on his face. “What about you? What do you do for a living?”

"Oh, I'm an influencer. I have a huge following," said Aisling, her pride evident. "I'm very successful, and my followers love me."

"That's cool," said Jason, genuinely impressed.

"Yes, and I've been featured on the front page of a few magazines."

"That's awesome," said Jason, nodding in admiration.

"Yes, it is. And I have a huge fan base," said Aisling, her confidence shining. Yet, beneath her pride, she felt the weight of societal expectations pressing down on her—questions about her worthiness and choices filled her mind.

As they continued talking, Aisling felt a mix of pride and pressure. The atmosphere around them buzzed with life, but her focus remained on Jason. She appreciated his ambition and the way he listened to her, genuinely engaging in their conversation. A part of her wondered if their connection could lead to future collaborations or even help each other grow in their respective careers.

___

They finished their meals, laughter and conversation flowing easily between them, both feeling the spark of connection. Aisling couldn’t help but smile, wondering where this evening might lead.

“Why don’t we go outside and sit on the bench?” Jason suggested, his tone casual.

Aisling agreed, her heart racing a little at the thought of being alone with him. They stepped out of the Oak and Barrel Bar, the lively chatter and clinking glasses fading behind them as they entered the cool evening air. The sky was painted in hues of orange and purple, and the warm glow of lanterns cast a soft light on the wooden bench in front of the bar.

As they sat down, Jason took a deep breath, his eyes searching hers. The scent of fresh wood mingled with hints of grilled food still wafting from the bar. Without saying anything, his lips met hers. Aisling was so surprised by this that the only thing she could do was kiss him back, her mind swirling with excitement and disbelief.

"Sorry, I should have asked," said Jason as he pulled away, a hint of uncertainty in his voice.

"It's okay," said Aisling, her cheeks warming, a playful smile tugging at her lips as the cool breeze brushed against her skin.

"Good," said Jason, his smile returning, eyes brightening with relief.

He leaned in again, and their lips met once more. This time, Aisling wrapped her arms around his neck, pulling him closer. The kiss was long and passionate; it was something she had never experienced before—a mix of sweetness and urgency that made her heart race.

Then she felt his tongue brush against hers, and she decided to reciprocate, her heart pounding wildly. Aisling’s hand tangled in his hair, the strands soft against her fingertips, gently tugging as excitement coursed through her.

They continued to kiss, lost in the moment, until Jason pulled back slightly, concern etched on his face.

"I'm sorry," he said, his brow furrowing. "I didn’t mean to rush things."

"For what?" asked Aisling, a hint of confusion in her voice, her heart sinking slightly.

"This," he said, gesturing between them earnestly, his expression serious. "I didn't mean to lead you on."

"You didn't like the kiss?" Aisling asked, surprised, her heart fluttering with uncertainty.

"I did! It was a very good kiss," he admitted, his cheeks flushing, the warmth of the moment lingering in the air. "But I'm not ready for a relationship right now. I’m just not looking for anything serious."

"Why not?" she pressed, her voice softening, genuinely curious as the cool breeze enveloped them.

"I don’t feel that there’s any vibe between us,” Jason said, looking away, as if searching for the right words. "You're really nice, but..."

"Vibe?" Aisling echoed, her brows knitting together, trying to understand.

"You're a really great person, but I’m just not in that place right now," he explained, his tone apologetic, a slight tremor in his voice.

Aisling's face fell, disappointment washing over her like the fading sunlight. "So, that's it then? The date is over?"

"Yes," he said, his voice barely above a whisper, regret in his eyes.

Aisling's shoulders slumped, her heart heavy. "But thank you for the advice," Jason said, trying to lighten the mood with a small smile.

"Advice?" Aisling asked, her curiosity piqued, her tone shifting.

"Yeah. I think I will continue auditioning, and maybe someday, I’ll get a role," said Jason, a hint of hope creeping back into his voice, his eyes brightening again.

"And if you do, I want to come to your premiere," said Aisling, forcing a smile, trying to keep the mood light against the backdrop of the dimming twilight. She imagined the potential of supporting each other in their respective careers.

"It's a deal," said Jason, extending his hand for a shake, his expression sincere.

They shook hands, a moment of connection lingering in the air, both feeling the weight of the moment, the sounds of the bar fading as if they were in their own world.

Then Jason got up and walked away, glancing back. "I hope you find the right guy," he said softly, his voice warm.

"Thanks. Have a good day," Aisling replied, her voice small, a bittersweet smile on her lips as she watched him turn away.

"Bye," he said, disappearing into the distance.

As she sat on the bench, Aisling felt an unexpected pang of longing. She imagined a future where she could support someone like Jason, encouraging him to chase his dreams. But in doing so, she also felt the weight of her own aspirations pressing against her heart.

In that moment, Aisling faced a choice: to continue pursuing her own goals or to let herself be swept away by the excitement of new love. Should she focus on her influencer career, where she felt secure and valued, or take a chance on something uncertain but potentially fulfilling?

Surprised but not heartbroken by Jason’s sudden exit, Aisling took a deep breath. She had been through many first dates before. 

Oh well, I guess it wasn't meant to be, she thought, the cool evening air brushing against her skin. At least he gave me a goodbye kiss. That was unexpected.

To Be Continued...

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If you enjoyed Aisling's journey and want to read more stories like this, be sure to check out my Patreon page at patreon.com/eternalsims4stories. Your support helps me create more engaging tales, and you won’t want to miss what comes next!

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The Pack Fans!

All chapters of The Pack are now live on my Patreon! 🎉 This means that future chapters will be available on both Tumblr and Patreon. The first chapter is free for everyone to enjoy!

If you want to read more, you can sign up for free or choose a tier from $5 to $15, depending on what you prefer. Please note that there are two NSFW chapters, which will be available in the higher tiers.

I’m thrilled to announce that all the stories I’ve written on Tumblr so far are now officially on Patreon for you to read again (And in order)!

Check it out here: The Pack | Patreon and explore more stories at patreon.com/eternalsims4stories.

👉 Your support is greatly appreciated! Join me on this adventure!

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🌟 Exciting News for Dynasty of Dreams Fans! 🌟

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But that's not all! If you’re interested in exploring other stories, you can find them here: Eternal Sims 4 Stories.

I'm also wrapping up the addition of all chapters of The Pack to Patreon, so stay tuned!

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👉 Read Regal from Another Realm here!

Future chapters will be available on both Tumblr and Patreon, so you won’t miss a thing! Plus, if you’re interested in more stories, check out my other works at patreon.com/eternalsims4stories.

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Heads Up

Hello,

I am currently playing with another new Sims 4 Merfolk family, and it's a subject that I can relate to with one of the characters. But I will write their story within the next couple of days. I need to take a break tomorrow for something that isn't Sims 4 related. And then I will play this family to see what happens next.

After them, I am going to create another household for a future story and then go back to play with the Denny/Volkov clan in The Pack.

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Hii!!! I uploaded Tristan Russell onto my patreon for free <3 Enjoy!!!!! <3 - Only everyday outfit done! - All CC included along with tray files. - 100% for free!

(Please read my TOS on the post before doing anything with him, thank you. Enjoy!)

♡download here♡

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The Merfolk Legacy

Chapter: Navigating Stormy Waters

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They fell hard for each other the first time they met. A few months after Amir moved in with Phoenix, they found themselves fighting—a common occurrence for couples who initially fell hard but now seemed to be constantly at odds.

In the open-concept living room, dining area, and kitchen of Phoenix's home, tension crackled in the air. Sunlight streamed through the large windows, illuminating the marble floor and casting soft reflections around the room. On one side, a luxurious green couch and plush chairs surrounded a sleek coffee table, while the dining area in the center showcased a polished wooden table set for eight. The kitchen was equipped with modern appliances that gleamed, and a stylish bar stood at the far end, stocked with an array of bottles.

Amir stood with his arms crossed, frustration etched on his face. “Phoenix, you’ve been glued to that laptop for days! When was the last time we actually spent time together?”

Phoenix looked up, irritation flaring in her eyes. “I’m working on something important! You knew I was a writer when you moved in. Why can’t you just support me?”

“Support you? It feels like I’m living with your book instead of you!” Amir shot back, stepping closer, invading her space. The air between them felt charged, thick with unspoken words. “Yesterday, I had to do all the chores because you were too busy to lift a finger!”

Phoenix halted, her breath quickening. 

“I can’t just drop everything! This novel is my dream, Amir. Can’t you see that?” She clenched her hands, tension radiating from her.

Amir’s frustration gave way to vulnerability. “I do see that, but I miss you. I feel like I’m losing you to your work.”

In that charged moment, something shifted. Phoenix stepped closer, her heart racing. “I don’t want to lose you either.”

Without thinking, she reached up, pulling Amir into a passionate kiss. It was electric, filled with all the words they hadn’t said, a desperate plea for connection amidst the chaos. Amir responded immediately, his arms wrapping around her waist, deepening the kiss. Time seemed to stand still as they lost themselves in each other, the tension momentarily forgotten.

But just as quickly, reality crashed back. They broke apart, breathless, and the tension returned, heavier than before.

Just then, her phone rang, cutting through the charged atmosphere. She glanced at the caller ID—her brother, King Armando of the Merfolk. Relief washed over her as she picked up. “Hello?”

“Is my daughter there yet?” the king asked, his voice steady.

“No, Kendra hasn’t rung the doorbell yet,” Phoenix replied, glancing toward the door.

As if on cue, the doorbell rang. The butler answered it and ushered Kendra into the living room.

“She's there,” the king said, his tone lightening.

“Yes, she’s here now. Bye,” Phoenix said quickly, hanging up.

Kendra, sensing the tension in the room, asked, “What happened?”

The butler stepped back, quietly returning to her duties, always ready to assist but preferring to stay out of family matters.

"Amir and I are fighting again," Phoenix admitted, her frustration bubbling beneath the surface.

Kendra laughed, which only fueled Phoenix's irritation. “Why are you laughing at me?”

“I’ve been hearing about your relationship issues since you met him. You guys need to talk it out. Don’t give up on your relationship.”

“And this is coming from my own niece, who has never dated?” Phoenix raised an eyebrow, trying to mask her annoyance.

“Just talk about your problems; don’t scream at each other. I’m only 18, but I’ve watched enough TV shows to know that fighting won’t solve anything.” Kendra spoke calmly, sitting down on the sofa, the soft fabric contrasting with the tension in the air.

Phoenix sighed, considering Kendra’s words. Finally, she took a seat next to her niece. “You’re right. We need to talk.”

“And you’re about to go to university soon,” Phoenix added, her expression earnest.

Kendra smiled softly. "Yeah, I’ll be gone soon. But you need to work things out."

“Says the girl who is studying to be a veterinarian,” Phoenix retorted, a hint of a smile breaking through her frustration.

“Yes,” Kendra said, her eyes brightening. "I guess I'm the second person in this family going into medicine. But that's in a different field than Holden's."

“Tell me, what’s been going on with your parents?” she asked, softening.

Kendra sighed. "You don’t have to tell me," Phoenix said quickly.

"No, it’s okay. My parents have been fighting a lot, especially about my leaving for university," Kendra replied, her voice tinged with sadness.

"You know we’re in the same boat," said Phoenix.

"Yeah," Kendra agreed.

“Hello,” Amir greeted the two women as he entered the living room, attempting to lighten the mood.

"Hey," both women replied in unison.

“Sorry, I couldn't help it,” Amir added, trying to inject levity into the situation.

“No, it’s fine,” Phoenix said, her voice softening.

Kendra stood up, brushing her hands on her jeans. “Look, I have to go. I’ll call you when I get to university, Aunt Phoenix. Bye!”

“Bye,” Amir called as Kendra left.

"Bye," answered Phoenix, feeling a mix of emotions as her niece departed.

"Why didn’t you say anything?" Amir asked, turning his attention back to Phoenix, concern replacing irritation.

"I couldn’t. Kendra was just telling me how her parents are fighting about her going away to university," Phoenix replied, her heart aching for her niece.

“Look,” she said, her voice firmer now, “we need to get ready for that celebrity fundraiser in Nordhaven tonight.”

"Are you sure we should go there tonight?” Amir asked, uncertainty creeping into his voice.

"Yes," said Phoenix, a hint of defiance in her tone. "It’s our job as the celebrity couple."

Amir nodded, still feeling the weight of their earlier argument as he left the room.

____

They arrived at Rouge Note in Nordhaven, where the atmosphere buzzed with excitement. The interior was alive with energy, the black floors gleaming under the warm, ambient lighting. Red brick walls framed the space, and crimson curtains draped elegantly, imparting a sense of drama. The bar, a focal point, sparkled with an array of colorful bottles, while tables filled the middle of the room, surrounded by plush red couches and coffee tables that invited conversation.

Although there wasn't much of a red carpet, familiar faces filled the venue—celebrities like DJ Nicolette Eaton and the new Vampire Queen Leanna McBride of Tamarang. Phoenix’s heart raced at the sight of the queen. Her family had always been friends with the true Vampire Queen Chloe of Forgotten Hollows, and she sensed that a storm was brewing between the two queens. For now, though, she and Amir had to put on brave faces for the paparazzi.

The couple walked the red carpet together, smiles plastered on their faces but tension still clinging to the air. They entered the bar for the fundraiser supporting the Earth Guardians Alliance, which focused on environmental conservation. The bar owner announced the celebrities present, beginning with Phoenix and Amir, who received polite applause.

Once inside, Phoenix and Amir sat at the bar and ordered drinks. They talked and laughed together, but the earlier tension lingered like a thick fog.

“Are you really okay?” Amir asked, his brow furrowing.

“Of course! Just focused on my novel,” Phoenix replied, but her voice lacked conviction.

“Focused? You mean obsessed,” Amir shot back, crossing his arms.

“Obsessed? You spend hours on game replays!” she countered, a teasing smile breaking through.

“Hey, that’s different!” Amir protested, though he couldn’t help but smile back. “At least I’m not locked away.”

After a while, Phoenix decided to mingle. 

“I’ll be right back. I want to chat with some people,” she said, slipping into the crowd.

As she moved away, a fan approached Amir, excitement lighting up their face. 

“Can I get your autograph?” the fan asked, holding out a piece of paper and a pen.

“Of course!” Amir said, his smile genuine as he signed the paper. He felt a flicker of pride, but it didn’t erase the weight of earlier frustration.

Meanwhile, Phoenix drifted over to speak with DJ Nicolette Eaton.

“So, how is everything going with your career?” Phoenix asked, genuinely interested.

Nicolette smiled, her eyes sparkling. "Good! The last album was a great success, and I had a number one hit on the charts."

"That’s great to hear!" Phoenix replied, her enthusiasm genuine.

Nicolette nodded and then asked, "How is the novel coming along?"

Phoenix's heart skipped a beat. Nobody had asked her that question lately. 

"I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to upset you," Nicolette said, sensing Phoenix’s hesitation.

"It’s fine," Phoenix replied, excitement creeping back into her voice. "My novel is coming along great, but I think I need to find a beta reader."

"Maybe my publicist can help with that," said Nicolette, her smile widening.

Phoenix's eyes lit up. "Really?"

"Yeah. Just text your novel to them, and they will get you a beta reader, if you want," Nicolette offered.

Meanwhile, Amir was talking to Princess Panagiota Denny, a fellow werewolf and a friend of Phoenix’s. Next to her, he was also speaking with Queen Leanna.

"What have you been up to, Leanna?" Amir asked, trying to keep the conversation light.

Leanna answered, "I’ve been busy working on some important matters in Tamarang."

Amir sensed that she was being very vague, but he didn’t push further. 

"How are you doing, Panny?" he asked.

"Things are... complicated," she replied, her tone casual, but Amir could hear the underlying tension.

"Great," Amir lied, though the words felt heavy.

“What have you been doing since you retired from soccer?” asked Queen Leanna.

"I’ve been helping the Earth Guardians Alliance and doing some charity work," Amir responded, but the hint of uncertainty in his voice didn't go unnoticed.

Queen Leanna raised an eyebrow. “Really? Like what?”

"I’ve been helping the Earth Guardians Alliance and some charities. And I’ve been trying to be a great boyfriend," he added, forcing a smile that didn't quite reach his eyes.

Queen Leanna nodded, but her expression was skeptical. As Phoenix glanced back at Amir, she felt a knot in her stomach.

A fan approached Phoenix for an autograph, which she gladly provided before returning to the conversation.

"If you need anything, please let me know," said the queen, her tone unexpectedly serious.

Amir was taken aback. 

"Okay," he replied, unsure of how to respond. Phoenix quickly joined the conversation.

"So I was talking to Nicolette Eaton, and she said she can help me with my novel," Phoenix said, trying to shift the focus.

Amir nodded, but a flicker of jealousy crossed his face.

Queen Leanna smiled. 

"It’s great to see the two of you here tonight," said the queen.

Both Amir and Phoenix looked at her.

"Really?" they asked in unison.

"Yes," the queen replied, her gaze lingering on Amir, as if weighing something unspoken.

“Hey, hon,” said Amir. “I’m going to chat with some more celebrities. See you in a bit.”

He left, and so did Princess Panagiota, who walked off to speak with other guests. Phoenix felt a chill as she watched him go.

“Are you sure everything is alright?” Phoenix asked Leanna, trying to keep her tone light.

Queen Leanna's eyes narrowed slightly. "Good, but I still have to deal with a lot of stuff. And how are you and your boyfriend?"

"Everything is going well," Phoenix lied, forcing a smile.

“Oh really!” Leanna replied, her tone suggesting she didn’t quite buy it.

“Yep, really,” Phoenix insisted, though doubt gnawed at her.

"Well, it’s good to know that," Queen Leanna said, though her smile didn’t reach her eyes.

Phoenix felt the weight of their conversation pressing down.

 “I hope things will be okay between our kingdoms and families,” she said, choosing her words carefully.

Queen Leanna's expression shifted slightly. "I'm sure they will be... eventually."

Phoenix had a bad feeling about this conversation.

"So have you ever dated anyone other than Amir?" the queen asked, casually probing.

"Not seriously. No," Phoenix answered, then quickly added, “Look, Amir and I have to go home now.”

"Are you sure?" the queen pressed, her curiosity piqued.

"Yeah," said Phoenix. "I hope to see you around again."

The queen smiled, but it felt more like a mask. "Thanks. See you around."

"See you," Phoenix said, feeling a knot tighten in her stomach.

She went and found Amir talking to another fan.

 “I want to go home,” she said, whispering in his ear.

“Are you sure?” Amir asked, concern creeping into his voice.

“Yes,” she replied, glancing back at Leanna.

“Alright,” he said. “Let’s go home then.”

As they left, Phoenix couldn't shake the feeling that their relationship was at a crossroads. The weight of unspoken words hung between them, a reminder that their paths might not always align.

____

Back home, Phoenix slipped outside to the pool, the water shimmering under the moonlight. The gentle lapping of the water created a soothing backdrop, contrasting sharply with the turmoil inside. She transformed into a mermaid, letting the coolness envelop her.

Alone in the water, she began to swim, her thoughts racing. The challenges ahead felt daunting; the weight of external conflicts pressed down on her fragile bond with Amir.

What if he’s right? she thought, her heart heavy. What if this dream pulls us apart?

As she glided through the water, she reflected on their love, wondering if it was strong enough to withstand the storms brewing on the horizon. But one question lingered in her mind: Would their love survive the trials that lay ahead, or would they find themselves drifting apart?

To Be Continued...

You can find all chapters of "The Merfolk Legacy" on Patreon! If you enjoy the story and want to support my writing, you can do so here.

Thank you for your support!

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[eternalsimsstories]

A loja da Liana ganhou um novo visual, agora está mais moderna e o 2º andar foi aberto para oferecer aulas de gemologia.

____________________________________________

Liana's store has had a glow up, now it is more modern and the 2nd floor has been opened to offer gemology classes.

[eternalsimsstories]

Why don't you do right, like some other men do? Get out of here and get me some money too.

[eternalsimsstories]

Fins and Pins

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Deandre and Kalyn Asher are your usual middle-aged couple, except for the fact that they are mermaids. They live on top of a three-story building where they also own a bustling bowling alley in Magnolia Promenade. Deandre is an optimistic man who dreams of a big happy family, while Kalyn, who works in retail and aspires to be a master mixologist, finds joy in crafting delightful drinks but secretly yearns for something more.

Over the years, Deandre and Kalyn have built a life together filled with laughter and shared dreams. Their bowling alley is a vibrant hub alive with neon lights and the sounds of laughter and clattering pins—a place where they have hosted countless birthday parties, family gatherings, and even a few wedding receptions. The alley features a downstairs area with a pool exclusively for them, a main floor bustling with activity, and a second floor overlooking the lanes, where they often reminisce about the past. This shared venture has strengthened their bond, yet introduced stressors, particularly financial ones, as they navigate the ups and downs of running a small business.

However, tonight is a slow night, so Deandre had to close the bowling alley. He often played the role of the cheerful host, making sure every customer left with a smile, but tonight, he felt the weight of their financial struggles. The recent rise in rent and the increasing number of competitors in town had made it difficult to keep the bowling alley profitable. After finishing his chores, he decided to bowl a game to lighten his mood. As he struck down a few pins, he felt a rush of joy, only to be reminded of the quiet emptiness around him.

After that, he went downstairs for a quick swim in their private pool, the water shimmering under the glow of the neon lights.

Deandre has been married to his wife, Kalyn, for 25 years. She’s the love of his life, but their relationship has been strained. The only issue is that Kalyn is unable to have kids. While Deandre once dreamed of a big family, he has learned to temper his expectations, focusing instead on the life they’ve built together. The burden of this unfulfilled dream has taken a toll on their intimacy, leaving them feeling more like best friends than lovers.

-----

On the top floor, Kalyn was watching TV in their living room, which features brown brick walls that contrast with the sleek, modern design of her round white chair. The TV, mounted on the wall, flickered with images, but lately, life had become monotonous. She felt a longing deep within—a desire to nurture and create a family. While she cherished her job in retail, helping customers find the perfect gift, her true passion lay in mixology. Crafting cocktails was exciting, and she had even won a few local competitions, but it felt inadequate compared to the dream of having children. Deandre voiced practical concerns, insisting that raising kids would be too expensive, but Kalyn felt a void that mixing drinks couldn’t fill.

The sound of the front door opening interrupted her thoughts. She heard Deandre say the bowling alley was closed and that he was going to bed. This saddened her. She watched some more TV before turning it off and going to bed herself.

In their room, Kalyn looked at the sleeping merman. He was handsome and muscular, with a kind heart that shone through his gentle features. She loved him deeply and knew he loved her too, but the desire for children weighed heavily on her. Though they had accepted their situation, the thought of what could have been lingered at the back of her mind.

She gently touched his bare chest, feeling the warmth of his skin. His abs were rock hard, a testament to the physical labor he put into maintaining their bowling alley. Kalyn sighed, longing for the family they had both dreamed of. Then she went to bed and cuddled next to Deandre, wishing for a spark of intimacy that had long been missing.

______

The next morning, Deandre awoke and checked on his wife. She was still sleeping, snoring softly, a peaceful expression on her face that made his heart swell. He chuckled, getting out of bed and tiptoeing to the shower.

After his shower, he went into the kitchen to cook breakfast. The kitchen featured soothing blue walls and a blue tile floor, complemented by white countertops. The smell of bacon wafted through their apartment, making his stomach rumble.

As he finished cooking, Kalyn stirred awake. She noticed Deandre wasn't in bed and quickly got dressed. The aroma of breakfast filled the air, and her stomach rumbled in response. She couldn’t wait for tonight; she had signed up for her very first pottery class. It was something new and exciting, a way to express her creativity beyond mixing drinks.

Kalyn smiled as she joined Deandre at the island in the kitchen, where they often shared meals. He looked up, his eyes lighting up as she went into the fridge for the milk.

“Morning! Did I miss the chance to make you pancakes?” he joked, his playful tone lightening the mood.

“Only if you’re planning to juggle them,” she laughed, taking a seat. “But bacon works too. You know how to win a woman’s heart.”

After a shared laugh, they exchanged a kiss—a fleeting moment of connection that reminded them of their younger days.

After breakfast, they headed out. Deandre opened the bowling alley downstairs, where the vibrant neon lights flickered to life, while Kalyn went to work at the retail store nearby. It was a typical day for the couple, filled with routine. However, as the day progressed, Deandre received a call from the landlord about an upcoming rent increase, which added to his anxiety. He felt the pressure mounting, not wanting to burden Kalyn with his worries.

Later, Kalyn finished work and was excited for her pottery class. She went home, took a shower, then changed into comfortable clothes before heading out to Nordhaven.

________

Terra Potta in Nordhaven is where the pottery class was held. It's a modern and minimalistic store with terracotta items waiting to be sold, displayed on brown wooden shelves along the walls and on circular stands in the center. Kalyn arrived early, spending time browsing the store and buying a terracotta hand and a pig. She felt a thrill at the thought of creating something unique, a piece of art that represented her.

"Hi!" greeted the owner, a human woman in a dirty apron. "Can I help you with anything?"

“No thanks,” answered Kalyn. “I just came early for the pottery class and thought I might browse around. I would like to buy these two sculptures first.”

The owner nodded and rang up her purchases. "You're the one who's taking the class?" she asked. "It's an interesting subject, to be honest."

"Thank you." Kalyn smiled, feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness. "My husband says I should find something new and different. I’ve always wanted to create my own pieces but never had the chance. So, now's as good a time as ever."

With her purchases in hand, Kalyn walked to the back where the class was taking place. The pottery classroom was bright and inviting, with four rows of pottery wheels lined up neatly and three kilns situated on one side. She took her seat at a pottery wheel at the front of the class, but to her surprise, no one else showed up.

“Well, from the look of it,” said the female store owner, “you’re the only person who signed up for this introduction to pottery course.”

Kalyn felt a wave of awkwardness wash over her. She had hoped to share this experience with others, but now it felt isolating.

The instructor cleared her throat. She grabbed two blocks of clay from one of the shelves. She placed one on Kalyn's wheel and the other on another pottery wheel right next to Kalyn where the Instructor sat.

"Okay, let's get started," she said. "This is a pottery class, and I'm here to show you how to make a vase. First things first—the number one rule is to put on an apron. We have aprons around here to keep clay off your clothes.”

Kalyn nodded, feeling a sense of anticipation. The instructor placed a block of clay on the wheel that is facing the class and began demonstrating the process.

“So, first, make a ball out of the clay.”

She paused as Kalyn watched, eager to follow along.

“Then, shape it into a cup,” continued the instructor.

Another pause followed as Kalyn focused on molding the clay into a cup.

“Smooth it out, turn the wheel on, and pull and shape it into the form of a vase, like this,” said the instructor, demonstrating the technique with her own block of clay.

“Lastly, you'll carve the design into it,” she explained.

“But I won’t have you do that just yet.”

Kalyn took the clay and followed the instructions. She felt the cool, pliable material in her hands and began to shape it. As she turned on the wheel, she realized she forgot to put on an apron, and clay splattered on her. But this was her first day; she laughed it off.

"Nice work," the instructor said as Kalyn shaped her vase. It grew larger with each rotation, and she wanted it to resemble the instructor's perfect creation.

"The best part about this class is that you can come back and practice anytime you want," the instructor added.

"That's great!" Kalyn exclaimed, feeling a spark of enthusiasm.

The instructor then showed Kalyn how to make the vase more rounded. "Once the vase is shaped, we can start adding decoration."

The instructor finished creating her vase and turned off the pottery wheel. She then grabbed her vase and indicated with her hand that Kalyn should get up, and they both walked over to where the kilns were. The instructor picked up what looked like a pink gun with a hose at the end of it.

Kalyn eagerly watched as the instructor demonstrated how to glaze. She placed her vase on a shelf, then turned on the glazer, where something blue shot out onto the vase.

"You want to apply the glaze evenly to highlight the texture of your vase," she explained, dipping a brush into a vibrant color and sweeping it across her creation. Kalyn marveled at the vibrant colors and techniques, feeling a sense of liberation in this new creative outlet.

After the demonstration, the instructor encouraged Kalyn to try. As Kalyn applied the glaze to her own vase, she felt a rush of excitement. Once she finished, the instructor took Kalyn’s creation and placed it into one of the kilns.

As she left the studio, Kalyn felt a surge of inspiration. Maybe this was the creative breakthrough she needed to reignite her passion. Perhaps she could even incorporate her pottery into her mixology—cocktails served in unique handmade vases could be a hit!

_____

When she got home, Kalyn walked up the stairs to her apartment. As she reached the second floor of the bowling alley, she heard some noises coming from her hallway. Curiosity piqued, she decided to peek in.

She saw Deandre bowling and chatting with four of his last customers. Three of them had bags over their heads for some reason. The bowling alley was about to close, but he was still letting these people play, his sassy nature shining through as he joked with them.

“Look at this! I’m not just a bowler, I’m a magician!” Deandre exclaimed, sending the pins flying with a perfect strike. The customers cheered, and he took a theatrical bow.

Kalyn went upstairs, turned on the TV in the living room, and relaxed. She felt a mix of pride and concern for Deandre; he was so dedicated to his customers, yet she worried about his well-being and the pressure he was under with the impending rent increase.

Then she heard a knock on the door. It was Deandre.

"What were you doing at the bowling alley?" she asked, trying to mask her curiosity with a light tone.

"Just giving our customers one more game before closing time," Deandre replied with a grin. “I’ll be coming back up pretty soon. Just thought I’d let you know.”

“Alright. Thanks!” Kalyn said, appreciating his thoughtfulness. She closed the door, changed into her nightgown, and continued to watch some more TV.

After the last customers left, Deandre cleaned up the bowling alley. As he walked up the stairs to their apartment, he thought about Kalyn and the weight of the rent increasing pressing on his mind. They had been so close once, but the distance between them felt like an ocean.

When he got home, Kalyn was watching TV, wearing a nightgown with her hair down. Deandre felt a rush of excitement; he hadn’t seen her in a nightgown in years. It was a reminder of their younger days.

"What are you watching?" he asked, sitting down on the couch beside her.

"Oh, nothing. Just something I saw while flipping channels," Kalyn replied, her gaze still fixed on the screen.

"Are you not feeling well?" Deandre asked, noticing her distracted demeanor.

"No! I feel fine. I'm just a bit tired," she said, but he sensed there was more beneath the surface.

"Can I ask you a question?" he ventured, wanting to break through the wall between them.

"Yeah, go ahead," she said, still not looking at him.

"Why do you dress the way you do?"

"What do you mean?" Kalyn replied, finally turning to face him.

"You wear your hair loose, and your clothes are too baggy," he said, trying to understand her choices.

"Because I like the way I look," Kalyn answered, her voice firm yet vulnerable.

"Well, I was just wondering," he said, feeling a mixture of admiration and concern. "You know, you could rock a little more... flair. A splash of color wouldn’t hurt. Maybe I should give you a makeover—mermaid style?"

Kalyn laughed, shaking her head. “You’d be my biggest critic, I bet! ‘Oh, Kalyn, that’s too bright!’”

He chuckled, “Okay, maybe I’ll leave the fashion to you. But you know I’d support you no matter what.”

He glanced down and saw her smooth legs, and his thoughts wandered to what lay beneath her nightgown.

"Do you think that I have a fat ass?" Kalyn asked suddenly, breaking his reverie.

"You definitely do not have a fat ass," he replied. "I love your ass."

"Really?" she asked, surprised.

"Yes."

"Well, that's a relief," said Kalyn, her tension easing.

Deandre chuckled, but the laughter faded as he sensed the deeper issues still lingering in the air.

"It's just that I haven't been feeling attractive lately," said Kalyn, her voice trembling.

"Do you not have a sex drive anymore?" he asked gently.

"That's not it," Kalyn replied, shaking her head.

"So what's wrong?" he pressed, wanting to understand.

"Nothing," she said, but he could see the struggle in her eyes.

"Is it me?" asked Deandre.

"Yes, and no," she replied, her voice trembling.

"What does that mean?" Deandre asked, feeling a knot form in his stomach.

"We’ve been married for 25 years and have not had any sex in years," Kalyn said, her voice barely above a whisper. “I know we’ve accepted our situation, but sometimes I can’t help but think about what could have been.”

Deandre felt a wave of sadness wash over him. He wanted to reassure her, to comfort her, but he struggled to find the right words.

"I know, and I'm sorry about that," he said softly. "And about the bowling alley... I got a call today. The rent is going up."

Kalyn's eyes widened. "What? When?"

"Next month," Deandre said, his shoulders slumping. "I didn’t want to worry you, but we need to figure out how to manage this."

"It's okay," Kalyn said, her voice steadying. "We’ll find a way. We always do. Remember when we thought we’d never make it through our first year? Look at us now!"

"Yeah, and look at the bowling alley. It’s a miracle we haven’t turned it into a fish tank yet!" he joked, trying to lighten the mood.

She smiled but then fell silent, the weight of reality returning. “But seriously, what if the increase pushes us over the edge?”

"Well, if it's not my fault, then why do I feel like I'm to blame?" he asked, frustration creeping into his voice.

"I'm not blaming you," she said, her tone firm yet weary. "It's just... everything feels overwhelming."

"It's just that..." she trailed off, leaving the sentence unfinished.

"I don't understand," Deandre said, feeling helpless.

"Forget it. I'm tired," said Kalyn. "Goodnight."

“Before you go to bed, I want to ask you one final question,” Deandre said, his heart racing.

“What is it?” Kalyn asked, looking at him with a mix of curiosity and apprehension.

“Do you want to adopt a child?” he asked, his voice steady.

“Do we have the money to do that?” she replied, her expression shifting from surprise to concern.

Deandre took a deep breath, hopeful yet anxious. “I want to give us a chance to build the family we both desire. It might be a new beginning for us.”

Kalyn looked at him, her heart pounding. The idea was both thrilling and terrifying. “We’ll need to talk more about this,” she said cautiously.

“Of course,” Deandre replied, his heart lifting slightly. “I just want to explore every possibility with you.”

As they sat in silence, the weight of their unspoken dreams hung in the air, but there was a flicker of hope. Kalyn thought of her pottery class and how creating something tangible could lead to new opportunities. Perhaps this was the beginning of a new chapter for them—one where they could find a way to blend their passions and rekindle their connection.

To Be Continued…

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[eternalsimsstories]

Merfolk Legacy Fans!

I'm thrilled to announce that my Sims 4 story, The Merfolk Legacy, is now live on Patreon! ✨

📖 Chapter 1 is available for everyone to read for free! Explore the world of merfolk royal family of Sulani and meet the characters that will keep you captivated. Check it out here: The Merfolk Legacy | Patreon.

🔥 Future chapters will be available on both Tumblr and Patreon, with some containing NSFW content. If you’re enjoying this story and want to see more, consider joining for free or exploring one of the paid tiers starting from just $5!

💖 Your support helps bring more chapters to life. Join the adventure here: patreon.com/eternalsims4stories.

Thank you for your support, and I can’t wait to share more of The Merfolk Legacy with you all!

P.S.

I am in the editing stages of Fins and Pins, which I will be posting once I am finished. This means that within a week or two, I'll be going back to playing and writing about one of the characters of The Merfolk Legacy.

Other than that, happy Simming!

[eternalsimsstories]

Exciting News about Royal Incantations!

I'm thrilled to announce that my Sims 4 story, "Royal Incantations," is now live on Patreon! ✨

📖 Chapter 1 is available for everyone to read for free! Explore the magical world and meet the characters that will keep you hooked. Check it out here: Edit Post | Patreon.

🔥 Chapter 2 contains NSFW content and is exclusive to my Patreon supporters. If you’re enjoying the story and want to see more, consider joining for free or exploring one of the paid tiers starting from just $5!

💖 Your support means that this helps bring more chapters of this and other stories to life. Join the adventure here: EternalSims4Stories | Sims 4 Fan Fiction Writer | Patreon

I can’t wait to share more of Royal Incantations with you all!

[eternalsimsstories]

🌟 Exciting News, Sims 4 Fans of Phantom Lineage! 🌟

I’m thrilled to announce that all the Phantom Lineage chapters are now live on Patreon! 🏡✨ The first chapter is FREE for everyone to read, so you can jump right in and enjoy the adventure, again!

🔗 Read the first chapter here: Phantom Lineage | Patreon

If you love it and want to continue the story, you can sign up as a member on Patreon! Membership options start at FREE and go up to $15 depending on the tier you choose. Each tier offers exclusive content and perks! 🎉

I know that one of the chapters in this story is NSFW. That is under a paid wall.

👑 Support me on Patreon: EternalSims4Stories | Sims 4 Fan Fiction Writer | Patreon

Future chapters will be available on both Tumblr and Patreon, so stay tuned for more updates! Thank you for your support, and I can’t wait to share this with you! 💖

P.S.

I don't know when I will start playing or writing about the Flores Royal family, yet again. But I do have plans to focus on one of the other characters in the future.

[eternalsimsstories]

🌟 Exciting News for Fated to the Pack Fans! 🌟

I'm thrilled to share that the first and only chapter of Fated to the Pack is now available on both Patreon and Tumblr! This also means that future chapters will be on both sites. However, this chapter features mature themes and is locked behind a paid wall.

👉https://www.patreon.com/posts/fated-to-pack-124755024

If you enjoy this story and want to support my work, please consider visiting my Patreon page: patreon.com/eternalsims4stories.

Thank you for your support, and happy reading! 📚✨

[eternalsimsstories]

Funny Sims 4 Names

Us Simmers know that playing Sims with funny names is not that unusual.

Before, I had to take my laptop in to be fixed (I didn't save my saves), I had a Sim named German Camp.

Now I just finished creating a new household (For a future story), where one of the Sim is named Fox Frost.

What funny names have you come across in your game?

[eternalsimsstories]

BEWARE of Residential Rentals!

I went to place a lot yesterday and my entire savefile suddenly corrupted. I realized it was corrupted because after I placed any lot, all of the other lots in my game reset to the original version of them. They all looked fine from world mode, but once loaded into any lot the issue persisted. Read more about these issue here.

I rolled back the save and it was fine so I decided to try and remove the entire pack and see what would happen. After removing the pack, I could place new lots and the game was fine. Which meant for me the issue is FOR RENT.

I was nowhere near the limit of residential rental lots nor did I use any cheats to have more than six units per lot. I was not placing a residential lot when it corrupted. So far it seems fine to add the pack back and just avoid the lot type.

TLDR: Removing FOR RENT prevented my savefile from corrupting when placing new lots. The steps I used to stabilize my savefile are below.

Hope this helps!

Steps to remove For Rent:

1. Remove savefiles and mods. Repair the Game. 2. Rollback to a stable version of your savefile. And repair the game again. 3. Evict families and convert Residential Rentals to Residentals. *Tag all units as one BEFORE changing the lot type. Simmers report that lots can corrupt otherwise.* 4. Use this to load the game without For Rent. 5. Follow this if you end up with two different Tomarang Worlds when you load the pack back into the game. I did. 6. Replace all of your household outfits that got messed up. otherwise some sims will be nakie.

Tips:

Backups: Helps if you have backups of your households and lots in your trayfiles. Fixing outfits: If you don't care about relationships you can delete and replace or use MCCC to copy and paste the outfits back on the sim. Or if you have a dresser file, run that for new outfits.

This has happened to me a few times, but this was the first time I decided to see if I could role back the game, avoid the corruption, and restore my savefile.

UPDATE: 3/18/2025 | 2:00pm

I noticed today that I can no longer load into units that used to be residential rentals. I’m going to roll back again and evict households, and then convert the units to residential BEFORE removing For Rent.

Additionally, I am seeing that people recommend converting all the units back to one, before switching a lot from a residential rental to a rental.

I’ll report back. Stay tuned!

UPDATE: 3/18/2025 | 3:05 pm

See updated steps above. Changing how and when I remove the residential rentals seems to have prevented the individual lots from corrupting. While testing I placed new builds, and loaded into various lots, opened and closed the game. So far things seem fine.

Things I will be doing moving forward.

Only play and place households in a few worlds.

Having less townies.

And following other guidelines that @rebouks shared here regarding lag because they help keep the savefile smaller.

Will update this post if I notice any other issues or anyone reports things to me.

UPDATE: 3/19/2025 - The new method above worked for most lots BUT there were a few former residentials that begun to have issues with infinite loading screens. I’m starting a new savefile file.

Good luck to anyone dealing with this!

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