#alessia murillo

[storiesbyjes2g]

3.142 Keep it in the family

After that rather heavy breakfast, I suggested we head to Gilbert Gardens for a stroll around the lake to burn off the calories and the effects of such a serious conversation. He told me a few stories from his childhood and how he and Mama met, which was a story I had actually never heard before. They were at a bar, and she turned around and told him he was beautiful and asked him out at the end of the night. It wasn't hard to imagine her being so brazen, but I only knew the more matured and careful version of Emerald Kierra Pope. Heh, I still couldn't believe Dwayne called her "Kiki." That sounded like a completely different sim, but I suppose she was a different sim then. While I enjoyed hearing happier stories of my parents' youth, I found it odd he would tell so many about him and her. Did he miss her? She must have gotten to him. I hadn't forgotten about them acting weird lately. Maybe what they say about the things we remember at the end of our lives is true. No one on their deathbed lamented about not making enough money or buying a bigger house. No one remembered the petty arguments and dumb stuff we did. It was the good times and people we loved, and he still loved her.

It was quite hot that afternoon, and Dad got tired and wanted to go back home, but I wasn't done with him yet. I needed more time and suggested we go check on Less and the babies, and he agreed. When we arrived, two of the three babies were hungry and screaming. Less already had Arvin, so I took care of Breanna. Dad stood quietly behind us, admiring how well we took care of them...or something. As soon as Arvin was satisfied, Lex woke up and demanded a meal too. Like every other visit, at some point, Dad left to take out trash and do whatever else he could find to help out. The fear of holding newborns must have been pretty strong. If I were staring death in the face, I'd like to think I'd suck it up and hold my long-awaited grandchildren. But to each his own.

Once all the babies were happy and asleep, we retreated downstairs to hang. Mama came in from the pool and was surprised to see us all together in the living room.

"Two days in a row? I should have given you my final wishes sooner!"

"Ha ha," I said flatly.

"You could have just left instructions like normal sims," Dad said.

Mama's head jerked back so far, I thought it would fly off and sock Less in the face. I could count on one hand how many times I saw my parents fight, but each time was dangerously entertaining.

"Did you leave instructions, smartie?" She paused a few seconds for dramatic effect. "I didn't think so!"

He shook his head at her. I could imagine their marriage being full of that, had it continued.

"While we're on the subject," he said, "if you don't mind, there's something I want to discuss with my children."

"Okay. I'll go. But don't be in here traumatizing my babies."

"You've already done that, Mama," I said. "Thanks for that."

"Why, I never! I know where I'm not wanted. I'm going back to the pool!"

He watched her leave, but still didn't say what he wanted to say. Maybe discussing their deaths was just as awkward for them as it was for us to hear about it, even though they spoke so casually about it.

"So...what is it, Dad?" I asked.

"Despite what she thinks, I do have instructions," he said. "But there is one matter left to finalize, and I could use your help."

"Uhhh...okay," Alessia said, nervously.

"Lessi... I want to give you my house..."

"A house?!"

"Yes. But if I leave it to you, I want you to live in it."

"But...I live here."

"I know. After your mom is gone, I thought maybe you'd want to be closer to your brother. My house isn't nearly as big or as nice as this, but it's homey, and there's enough room for everyone."

"But...I..."

She looked so lost. Did Mama not talk to her? Or did she not consider the whole picture? Probably the latter. She was never good at caring about much beyond her nose. I, on the other hand, was giddily distracted by the idea of us being neighbors. Ever since learning Jace abandoned her, I had been trying to think of the best way to help her and the babies. Never once did I consider her moving to live near me until Dub mentioned his rental property. It was the perfect solution for both of us. She'd have family nearby to help with the kids, Des would grow up with faux siblings, and I'd get to keep an eye on Less and be a positive male figure in my niblings' lives. Everyone wins!

"I know that's a big decision," he said, "and expecting you to make it now isn't right, so how about this... I'll leave it to Luca until you decide if you want it or not. But no matter what you decide, I don't want either of you to sell it. I want it to stay in the family."

"But...what do I do with it?" I asked.

"Rent it out and make some money. Or keep it and give it to one of the kids. I don't have a pile of money to leave you like your mom does. This house is all I have. That's why I chose not to rent an apartment when we moved. This house is my contribution to our family's legacy. It can provide extra income for you or a head start for your children or their children as long as it stays in the family."

I had only thought of rental property in terms of a shared living situation like Dub had done. I didn't consider I could take a house I already owned and let someone else live in it while I lived somewhere else. The money tree had already done so much for my family's future, but everything Dad had said opened my mind to so many more possibilities. Just like I told Dub, I could leave Desiree more than just money.

"Of course we'll keep it in the family, Dad."

The evening grew late, and I had to get home to my ladies, so I said goodnight to Dad, silently hoping that it wasn't our final farewell. But in case it was, I gave him a good squeeze and told him I loved him.

I grabbed Less next.

"I love you too. I hope you'll take the house."

"We'll see. You're okay, I guess."

"I KNOW you're not leaving this house without saying goodbye to me," Mama shouted, appearing from nowhere.

"Now, why would I ever think about doing that?" I kissed her on the cheek. "I love you. I'll be back soon."

[johnny-em]

ODDKO - Disobey (Official Music Video) from Giovanni Bucci on Vimeo.

ODDKO “Disobey” official video, directed by Giovanni Bucci

DISOBEY, directed by Giovanni Bucci, features some of the most ambitious visual effects ever used in a music video. It’s a multidisciplinary art project that integrates dozens of detailed, disparate production elements into one cohesive vision, sound, and beat. “Disobey” explores themes of Man vs. Machine, of Nature vs. Technology, and paints the goddess Hekate as a 21st Century nightmare, ensnaring victims and bending them to her will.

Based on a carefully planned animatic and mastering precise and dynamic 3D camera movements, Gio went to great lengths to ensure that every moment of the video was seamlessly integrated with its sound. Focusing on each character and location, Paola Rocchetti’s discerning taste and natural flair for makeup and styling was a key element curating the aesthetic of the video. With contributions from Dead Lotus Couture (London), Mother of London (LA), Majesty Black (LA), Pieroni Lab (Rome), Oscar-winning makeup artist Manlio Rocchetti (1943-2017), and Oscar-winning 3D artist Stefano Dubay, Gio and Paola successfully brought their vision to life.

ODDKO is a music project created by musician and award-winning video director Giovanni Bucci. It's the fruit of Gio’s eclectic tastes and his desire to make a vibrant new multifaceted work of art.

While easily enjoyed as a breathtaking journey through a singular dystopia, the video rewards multiple viewings with layer after layer of intricate detail. Beyond the striking visuals, there is a mythic story in the fabric of DISOBEY, a primal call to action, and a warning against deliberate manipulation of oblivious consumers.

Music by: ODDKO Website: oddko.com Merch: voidndisorder.com/shop/oddko-merch/ Spotify: https://sptfy.com/20Ge iTunes / Apple Music: itunes.apple.com/us/album/disobey-single/1441358021 Amazon Music: music.amazon.com/artists/B07K... Facebook: facebook.com/ODDKO Instagram: instagram.com/oddko_official

CREDIT LIST

PRODUCTION

Produced by: Void n' Disorder voidndisorder.com

Giovanni Bucci Director, Creative Director

Paola Rocchetti Executive Producer, Art Director, Stylist

Director of Photography: Giovanni Bucci, Dave Tavanti Director of Photography for Hekate: Giovanni Bucci, Marta Petrucci Cinematographer: Giovanni Bucci Assistant camera operator: Nicolò Baronci

CAST

Oddko: Giovanni Bucci Hekate: Paola Rocchetti Skull cat girl: Arianna Ilardi Girl on black background: Selena Tavanti Guy in distressed room: Sergio Scargetta Guy in jungle room: Dave Tavanti Lab test doctor: Rosa Bucci Priest: Bruno Bucci Percussionist: Nicolò Baronci Voiceover: Colin de Andrade

EDITORIAL AND VFX PRODUCTION/CREATIVE

Editor: Giovanni Bucci 3D environment development: Giovanni Bucci, Paola Rocchetti, Stefano Dubay, Alessandro Anzola, Alessandro Chironna, Federico Albanese, Samuele Cisternino 3D animation: Giovanni Bucci Texture TD: Hoang Anh Nguyen 3D Lighting: Giovanni Bucci, Hoang Anh Nguyen Shader development, render TD: Duy Do Le 3D modeling: Stefano Dubay, Hong Nhung Nguyen, Limkuk Olive tree 3D scan by Carlo Jongen 3D tracking: Hadi Pourkerman Compositing: Giovanni Bucci Colorist: Giovanni Bucci

Costume design and styling: Paola Rocchetti On set costume assistant: Flavia FG Tomassi, Marta Petrucci Key Make-Up: Paola Rocchetti Additional Make-Up: Flavia FG Tomassi for Paola Rocchetti as Hekate Assistant Make-Up: Marta Petrucci Special FX supervisor: Manlio Rocchetti Special FX assistant: Gabriele Catania Sculptors: Francescaromana Di Nunzio, Massimiliano Catalano

MUSIC

Disobey is written and performed by Giovanni Bucci Music arrangement: Daniele Marinelli, Rob Romano Drums: Francesco Paoli Bass: Dave Tavanti Guitar: Giovanni Bucci, Rob Romano Sound engineer: Rob Romano Mastering: Howie Weinberg

LOCATION

Green screen scenes filmed at Strani Rumori Studio in Pigge (PG), Italy On location scenes filmed in Cordigliano (PG), Italy

SPECIAL THANKS

STRANI RUMORI STUDIO and LUCA SCOTA who provided the majority of the equipment and who believed in and supported us from the beginning. Thank you Luca!

THANKS

Joshua David at Majesty Black, Mildred at Mother of London, Nange Magro at Dead Lotus Couture, Alessia Bassani, Paressi Presone Labitan, Rocchetti & Rocchetti, Manuela Caredda, Luana Inguscio, Roberta Chielli, Alessandro Catalano, Emanuela Familiari, Luigi Rocchetti, Fabrizia Pandimiglio and her black cello, Laura Aschieri, Bartek Truszkowski, Felix and Sasha at E8 Make 3D Printing, David Torno, Nando Adiletta, Cane Cane, Ezequiel Grand, Mert Kızılay, Ed Boldero, Alessandra Rocchetti, Kate Bestic, Valentina Trentini, Jake Maymudes, Veronika Coassolo, Mike Lipscombe, George Murillo, Carlos De Faria, Isabel Moura, Laura Fallace, Sara Lazzaro, Alessio Brunozzi, Monina Bucci, Stefano Spiganti, Francesco Ferrini, Cristiano Peverini, Carlo Primieri at Primieri Hair, Heather Henry, Demobaza, United Nude.

[revolversantosfilms]

ODDKO - Disobey (Official Music Video) from Giovanni Bucci on Vimeo.

ODDKO “Disobey” official video, directed by Giovanni Bucci

DISOBEY, directed by Giovanni Bucci, features some of the most ambitious visual effects ever used in a music video. It’s a multidisciplinary art project that integrates dozens of detailed, disparate production elements into one cohesive vision, sound, and beat. “Disobey” explores themes of Man vs. Machine, of Nature vs. Technology, and paints the goddess Hekate as a 21st Century nightmare, ensnaring victims and bending them to her will.

Based on a carefully planned animatic and mastering precise and dynamic 3D camera movements, Gio went to great lengths to ensure that every moment of the video was seamlessly integrated with its sound. Focusing on each character and location, Paola Rocchetti’s discerning taste and natural flair for makeup and styling was a key element curating the aesthetic of the video. With contributions from Dead Lotus Couture (London), Mother of London (LA), Majesty Black (LA), Pieroni Lab (Rome), Oscar-winning makeup artist Manlio Rocchetti (1943-2017), and Oscar-winning 3D artist Stefano Dubay, Gio and Paola successfully brought their vision to life.

ODDKO is a music project created by musician and award-winning video director Giovanni Bucci. It's the fruit of Gio’s eclectic tastes and his desire to make a vibrant new multifaceted work of art.

While easily enjoyed as a breathtaking journey through a singular dystopia, the video rewards multiple viewings with layer after layer of intricate detail. Beyond the striking visuals, there is a mythic story in the fabric of DISOBEY, a primal call to action, and a warning against deliberate manipulation of oblivious consumers.

Music by: ODDKO Website: oddko.com Merch: voidndisorder.com/shop/oddko-merch/ Spotify: https://sptfy.com/20Ge iTunes / Apple Music: itunes.apple.com/us/album/disobey-single/1441358021 Amazon Music: music.amazon.com/artists/B07K... Facebook: facebook.com/ODDKO Instagram: instagram.com/oddko_official

CREDIT LIST

PRODUCTION

Produced by: Void n' Disorder voidndisorder.com

Giovanni Bucci Director, Creative Director

Paola Rocchetti Executive Producer, Art Director, Stylist

Director of Photography: Giovanni Bucci, Dave Tavanti Director of Photography for Hekate: Giovanni Bucci, Marta Petrucci Cinematographer: Giovanni Bucci Assistant camera operator: Nicolò Baronci

CAST

Oddko: Giovanni Bucci Hekate: Paola Rocchetti Skull cat girl: Arianna Ilardi Girl on black background: Selena Tavanti Guy in distressed room: Sergio Scargetta Guy in jungle room: Dave Tavanti Lab test doctor: Rosa Bucci Priest: Bruno Bucci Percussionist: Nicolò Baronci Voiceover: Colin de Andrade

EDITORIAL AND VFX PRODUCTION/CREATIVE

Editor: Giovanni Bucci 3D environment development: Giovanni Bucci, Paola Rocchetti, Stefano Dubay, Alessandro Anzola, Alessandro Chironna, Federico Albanese, Samuele Cisternino 3D animation: Giovanni Bucci Texture TD: Hoang Anh Nguyen 3D Lighting: Giovanni Bucci, Hoang Anh Nguyen Shader development, render TD: Duy Do Le 3D modeling: Stefano Dubay, Hong Nhung Nguyen, Limkuk Olive tree 3D scan by Carlo Jongen 3D tracking: Hadi Pourkerman Compositing: Giovanni Bucci Colorist: Giovanni Bucci

Costume design and styling: Paola Rocchetti On set costume assistant: Flavia FG Tomassi, Marta Petrucci Key Make-Up: Paola Rocchetti Additional Make-Up: Flavia FG Tomassi for Paola Rocchetti as Hekate Assistant Make-Up: Marta Petrucci Special FX supervisor: Manlio Rocchetti Special FX assistant: Gabriele Catania Sculptors: Francescaromana Di Nunzio, Massimiliano Catalano

MUSIC

Disobey is written and performed by Giovanni Bucci Music arrangement: Daniele Marinelli, Rob Romano Drums: Francesco Paoli Bass: Dave Tavanti Guitar: Giovanni Bucci, Rob Romano Sound engineer: Rob Romano Mastering: Howie Weinberg

LOCATION

Green screen scenes filmed at Strani Rumori Studio in Pigge (PG), Italy On location scenes filmed in Cordigliano (PG), Italy

SPECIAL THANKS

STRANI RUMORI STUDIO and LUCA SCOTA who provided the majority of the equipment and who believed in and supported us from the beginning. Thank you Luca!

THANKS

Joshua David at Majesty Black, Mildred at Mother of London, Nange Magro at Dead Lotus Couture, Alessia Bassani, Paressi Presone Labitan, Rocchetti & Rocchetti, Manuela Caredda, Luana Inguscio, Roberta Chielli, Alessandro Catalano, Emanuela Familiari, Luigi Rocchetti, Fabrizia Pandimiglio and her black cello, Laura Aschieri, Bartek Truszkowski, Felix and Sasha at E8 Make 3D Printing, David Torno, Nando Adiletta, Cane Cane, Ezequiel Grand, Mert Kızılay, Ed Boldero, Alessandra Rocchetti, Kate Bestic, Valentina Trentini, Jake Maymudes, Veronika Coassolo, Mike Lipscombe, George Murillo, Carlos De Faria, Isabel Moura, Laura Fallace, Sara Lazzaro, Alessio Brunozzi, Monina Bucci, Stefano Spiganti, Francesco Ferrini, Cristiano Peverini, Carlo Primieri at Primieri Hair, Heather Henry, Demobaza, United Nude.

[storiesbyjes2g]

3.171 Happy birthday to ya

When it got closer to party time, Sophia and I moved the couch to the backyard for more seating options. Our parties always end up fragmented with some sims eating in the house and others on the patio. My goal is to keep everyone together, so hopefully this will help. We also moved the picnic blanket and put the portable crib outside to accommodate the little ones. Because we're friendly again, I invited Yasmine and her girls, but she declined. She doesn't know the other guests and didn't want anyone asking questions about Stacey. I completely understood but feel bad for her. This spellcaster business has really trapped her and the girls in their home.

Apart from my baby aging up, I'm most excited about having Dub and his family in our home for the first time. Between the deaths and parenthood, it's been super hard for us to connect lately. I guess I was naïve enough to believe it would be easier being in the same city, but life keeps proving it doesn't matter where we are. Life is going to life, and that's that. I suppose I'll have to be more intentional about hanging with him too.

"You got it smelling good out here, bro," a voice says from behind me.

That Henford accent is unmistakable, and I was so glad to hear it. I turned around and embraced him.

"Wassup, man! Did you find us okay? Welcome! Finally!"

"Right? Took you long enough!"

"Don't even play, man. You know how life is sometimes."

"Sure do. This house is nice! And the view!"

"Thanks. If you're able to stick around later, I'll give you the tour. Hey, where's Maia? Is she coming?"

"Yeah, she's running a little late. She's just finishing up a project for a client."

"Ahhh. See? San Sequoia has been good to you already. I'm glad her business is picking up."

There's no way Dub showed up alone, so I looked around for Tambara, knowing she couldn't be too far behind. I spotted her toddling across the yard, trying her best to catch up with her daddy.

"She's getting to be extremely independent these days," Dub said when he realized I was watching her. "She won't even let us pick her up anymore. I don't mind that so much, but waiting for her really slows me down."

"She'll get faster," I said, thinking about Desiree's determination. "Just give her time."

Tami and Desi look nothing alike, but I see glimpses of the immediate future in her proud face and wobbly gait. I want Desi to grow up and change the world, but I can't part with my little girl. At the same time, I'm anxious to see her continue to grow. I love watching her smash these milestones like the boss baby she is. Ugh. Fatherhood is just a melting pot of contradictions. How can I be happy and sad, proud and scared at the same time?

Tami finally made her way over to us, so I waved.

"Hey there! Do you remember me? I'm Luca. That's a pretty dress."

Her face lit up, and I knew it didn't matter if she remembered me or not. I was currently her new bestie. Flattery works at all ages, hee hee.

"What do you say when someone gives you a compliment?" Dub asked.

"I know," she shouted.

Me and Dub had a good laugh. She's so precocious, and I love it. Kids really do say the darndest things, and I can't wait to hear what Desi will have to say. Hopefully that's not a be careful what you wish for situation, heh.

"That's right, Tam," I said. "You better know it."

"How are you holding up?" Dub asked, wiping the smile off my face.

"I'm good. As good as I can be, rather. It gets a little better every day."

"I'm glad to hear it. I can't even think about what that's going to be like."

"It might sound morbid, but you should start thinking about it, man. It's the shock that's hard to get over."

"You play dollies with me," Tambara shouts.

That was probably supposed to be a question, but she's too excited about her new, big friend and it's too cute.

"Oh, no," Dub says to me. "You start that and she'll never let you go."

She's adorable, looking just like both of them. I hope she and Desi will like each other. It'll be a shame to have them fighting or snubbing each other when we hang out.

"You can play with Desiree later, okay?" he says.

"Speaking of... We should probably get this show on the road soon. Let me finish these ribs."

(makeovers and family photos below!)

Dub and fam by @mysimsloveaffair

[storiesbyjes2g]

3.194 Big kids

While I dealt with my cheeky tenant, Alessia and the kids moved in. I found her enjoying the slip and slide as I neared the house. I guess it will have to do since there's no pool, heh. She ran over to me and started raving about the house and how perfect it is. I was really glad she loved like we did.

She mainly loved that it wasn't as large as Mama's house and she can keep an eye on her crew better. But like us, it's the layout that did it for her.

I had been waiting for her to move in before I went inside and saw her unit firsthand. It was cozy just like it looked in the pictures. One thing surprised me, though. I thought that closet system would crowd her bedroom and make it difficult to get to the other side of the bed, but there was a lot more room than I thought, and I was officially jealous.

I asked where the kids were, and she said they're playing outside, so I went home to tell Desi she had company. I took her outside, then went back in to get started on the cake. But before I got started, I watched them from the window to see how she fared, being on her own for the first time. She actually seemed a little shy at first, but that didn't last long.

I saw Less had gotten dressed and was also watching from the sidelines. She doesn't give herself enough credit and is a fierce mama bear. Lex, Arvin, and Breanna are lucky to have her as a mom. Soon, they'll be old enough to realize it.

I go back to baking and peek back out the window when the cake is ready. Desi is having the time of her life in the ball pit for the first and last time, and Less has come from out of shadows and is playing with the kids. I couldn't help but smile at the whole scene. This is what I wanted. This is why we moved here! My heart is so full.

And one more because Kooper loves the camera lol

[storiesbyjes2g]

3.164 Time

We got ourselves and Desi dressed in green again and headed to the cemetery. The trip was quite cumbersome with the portable crib, Desi's bag, and portable chairs, but we made it. I set everything up so we could wait comfortably for Less to arrive. Thankfully, Desi didn't fight me about putting her in the crib, though I feel like she was threatening me under her breath, heh.

She glared at me, and I stared back, but not to intimidate her. I just got lost in thought. Sitting here in the cemetery looking at her before I bury my mother put things in a really odd, grim perspective. I'm sad for her, Breanna, Arvin, and Lex. I don't know how old my parents were when they had us, but I think me and Less might be a little older than they were, and Sophia is even older than us. That means the kids will have to deal with this earlier in their lives, and I'm already sorry for that pain we'll cause them. I'm especially sad for Desi because she'll be alone. I mean, she'll have her cousins, and hopefully her own family, but no one will miss us quite like she will. That is a burden she'll bear all by herself, and I hate that for her.

Less arrives, complaining about her exhaustion and the challenges of caring for three infants. Part of her is relieved they'll be walking in a few days, but she's mostly dreading it because that means more trouble and she'll really have to keep an eye on them. I try to pivot by saying things will be better when they're toddlers because they'll be less dependent on her, meaning she can do more things with them, including dropping them at our house from time to time. She appreciated that part. She's felt like she's been in prison with them, especially since Mama passed.

Speaking of Mama, I told Less to pull up a chair and asked what her favorite memory of her was. I thought she would have to think about it, but she had one at the ready. Less was never a very huggy child and always had a passive attitude about everything. That made it hard for her and Mama to connect. She always felt like Mama liked me more. Her favorite memory was the first time she felt like she and Mama had a breakthrough. The day after her teen birthday, Mama got her a phone. She was so excited and wanted her to be a part of her online world. Less showed her all her favorite SimTube videos, all the profiles of the kids at school, all the memes, all the things. Mama didn't ask questions or show any concerns about her being so obsessed. She just watched everything and even seemed interested in it all.

Sophia didn't know her long enough to have a favorite memory, but she said she'd never forget when they met. Meeting your partner's parents is always a nerve-wracking experience, but when you're talking about marriage and starting a family, it's even more unnerving. If it doesn't go well, that experience will hang over your head for the rest of your life, potentially. But meeting Emmy was such nice, chill experience. First, she was so gorgeous it was almost intimidating. She didn't ask a thousand questions or embarrass me like many moms do. Meeting Mama was like making a new friend—a friend who was even more a fan of me than she was, heh. She was just an amazing woman.

While Less and Sophia told their stories, I tried hard to comb over my brain and pick just one. It was so hard to do, but I finally settled on one. We all know she loved us like nobody's business, but I remember the moment I realized how far her love would go. I begged Mama to let Dad come on my birthday trip to Mt. Komorebi. I knew they were divorced, and I knew she was dating someone, but it was really important to me for all of us to be together. It was basically tradition because we were always together for our birthdays. She told me no every time I asked, but when we arrived, Dad was there. She was willing to put aside her feelings and work through the awkwardness just so I could have what I wanted. That's the moment I learned how sacrificial the love of a parent is, and I try to be that for Desi.

Speaking of Desi, it was past her nap time, and she was fighting sleep. I'll never understand why babies do that. They know they're tired and need to sleep, yet they try to stay awake anyway. But the most beautiful scene in the world played out right in front of me. Sophia was about to get up and see about her, but Less got up and said, "Relax. I got it." She walked over to the crib and soothed Desi until she fell asleep. It was so beautiful I almost cried. I keep saying this, but I mean it more and more every time I say it. Each time I see her interact with the babies, I know despite how sucky her situation is, everything will be alright. I probably don't even need to worry about her as much as I do. She's always so concerned that she's not a good mom, but she has the skills. If only she can see what I see. If she didn't have children, I think she'd be a dope auntie. She probably looked forward to having fun with my children, spoiling them rotten, getting them high on sugar, and them sending them back to me, but now she has her own crew to deal with.

We shared a few more stories and laughs before a natural pause in the conversation came up. We sat in the silence for a moment because we knew it was time to say goodbye. I got up and placed the urn on the plot in front of Dad's headstone. Alessia and Sophia joined me, and we circled around the plot, trying to find the strength to say goodbye. It's so interesting how fast things can change. One moment we're laughing and chopping it up, and the literal next moment we're trying to hold back tears.

"Mama," I said in a broken voice, "I know you said you didn't want us crying, but how can we not? You're gone."

Those words almost took me out, and I needed a moment to ground myself before I could finish. Sophia came closer and rubbed my arm and told me everything was okay.

"You were everything to me, and I..."

Neither of us could take it anymore.

We cried and hugged, just like we did when Grim came. I was really glad Desi was asleep because we really needed that moment for ourselves. Again, we cried until we had no tears left. Desi had woken up by then, so we definitely needed to get home. I gave Less one final hug, and she told me she wants to live closer but not in Dad's house.

"Say less," I said. "I'll take care of it."

[storiesbyjes2g]

3.184 Enjoy company

[storiesbyjes2g]

3.139 Buzz kill

The next day, I noticed Sophia getting around better and looking more lively, so I seized the opportunity to go meet my niece and nephews, with her blessing, of course. When I arrived, a less angry, more serious Alessia greeted me, and I was glad to see her getting better as well. Even though our birthdays were mere days apart, I had always viewed her as a little sister. But if I had gotten older and wiser, so did she. Maybe this situation caused her to mature very quickly. Jace's actions were beyond her control, and stewing in anger every day didn't get her anywhere. I told her I was proud of how she handled it, murderous thoughts aside.

"Don't applaud me yet," she said. "I still dream about killing him."

"No one would fault you for that, Less. What he did was foul, and I personally want to lay hands on him."

She smiled, shaking her head at me.

"I still can't believe my super Jedi Zen brother wants to hurt someone."

"Everyone has limits, sis. Now, can I please meet the babies?"

As we walked up the stairs, I heard one of them crying.

"I'm coming, Lex," Alessia shouted.

"How do you know which one it is?"

"Well, dear brother, when you're trapped in the house with them 24/7, you learn a lot of things," she said in a snarky tone.

She went straight to his bassinet, picked him up, and fed him, and I watched her in awe.

"See? I told you it was in you," I said.

"Yeah, yeah. They're not so bad when they're not screaming at you. That's right! You're not so bad...cute little devil."

She looked at him so lovingly. I knew despite the rough road she would have, everything would be okay.

"So you must be Arvin, then," I said, picking up the other boy. "Do you remember my voice? I'm Uncle Luca!"

Less asked if I could watch them for a little while so she could do some things around the house, and once again, she impressed me. I had never seen her even wash a dish before, and now she talked about taking care of the house? Motherhood did her some good, I suppose. That, or she was that desperate to get away from the babies.

I put Arvin down and met the young queen, Breanna. She had green eyes, just like Dwayne. I shook my head as I thought about his situation. The poor man invested all that time and emotional energy into their relationship only for Mama to abandon him at the end of his life. He had always been so supportive and understanding of the complexities of our family dynamics, and even the complexities of their own relationship. I'm glad he finally stood up for himself, but it was just so sad.

When Alessia came back, I told her I'd love to stay but needed to go because I told Sophia I wouldn't be long. Mama caught me as I stepped onto the porch and said she needed to talk to me. I tried to tell her I'd call her tomorrow and that I needed to get home, but she insisted.

"I don't have long, Luca," she said in a stern tone.

"Mama..."

"No whining. You're going to listen to me, now. This is happening whether you want it to or not, and I want you to be prepared!"

She was right. My parents had been trying to talk about their pending demise, but I didn't want to hear it. And it wasn't like I hadn't noticed them getting older. But I still wanted to build that treehouse with Dad, and I wanted Mama to drop by unannounced with suitcases filled with gifts for Desiree and the dogs. I still looked forward to them being there when she got home from her first day of school. But none of that would happen, and I couldn't ignore it anymore.

"I'm listening," I said.

"I want you to bury me next to Mommy."

"Yes, ma'am."

"And I want you to have that other painting she did."

Tears wet my cheek, so I nodded so my voice wouldn't break.

"I don't want a funeral. Have a party and dance. Don't cry because you wish I was still here. I didn't always do things right, but I lived, Luca. Celebrate that."

"A party, though?"

"Party! Promise me you'll take care of your sister. She's gonna need you more than ever now."

"I always do, Mama."

"I know you do. You've been such a great big brother. I'm so proud to call you my son. You're everything I wanted. If all I did was be your mom, I'd still die happy and fulfilled."

"How can you be so casual about this?"

"I told you. I had a full life. If I could spend more time with you, I would. But I know you'll be alright. I get to be with my parents again! Why would I be sad about that?"

I had so many thoughts swirling through my head and so many unanswered questions. I felt anxious about running out of time to get answers, and that conversation seemed like the perfect time to bring them up. But at the moment, none of that seemed to matter anymore. I wanted her to enjoy whatever time she had left, rather than bombarding her with uncomfortable questions. I was a very grown man who could figure things out for myself.

"You've been a good mom. I may not always agree with you, but that never changed how much I loved you. I just want you to know that."

"I know that, buddy."

"I know you know, but I haven't said it enough. Thanks...for everything."

"It's been my pleasure, Luca."

[storiesbyjes2g]

3.117 The other shoe

We started the night at a bar in a fancy rooftop hotel in San Myshuno. Sophia and I didn't bother dressing up because our only goal was to meet the man that had my sister all googly-eyed, and that didn't involve nice clothes. Jace Laurent was his name. He was from Tartosa and frequented the bar where we had the party. His fancy job title didn't fool me once he explained the role. He said he was a nano-simfluencer for a company called Trend Team. Apparently, he was heavily into fashion and was seeking the attention of brands on social media so he could score an endorsement deal. Basically, he was unemployed. True, I was technically unemployed too, but at least I left home and come back with money like normal working sims.

But after a while, I had to admit he wasn't as much of a schmuck as I thought he'd be. He was definitely weird, but seemed like he'd be kinda fun to hang out with once we got to know each other better.

"Would you stop grilling him??" Alessia shouted.

"I'm not grilling! I'm just trying to get to know him. Isn't that what you want?"

"Yeah, but stop with the 20 Questions!"

"How else am I supposed to get to know him, Less??"

Like, seriously! What was up with her? First she yelled at Sophia on Winterfest for trying to stay in the conversation and get to know her, and now this? I hoped ol' dude was up to handle her moods because if I couldn't win with her, no one could.

"Don't mind her," Jace said. "She's just a little pregnant."

"I'm sorry...WHAT?!"

His proud, smug face melted into discomfort and mortification.

"Oh no...she didn't tell you."

"We're in love, Luca," Alessia shouted. "I asked him to move in."

So many questions buzzed around my brain like a swarm of bees, but the frustration flowing through my veins was stronger than the urge to get answers. I was so done with this seemingly endless stream of accidental pregnancies around me! The mere thought of another person turning up pregnant ignited a fiery anger within me so intense I could almost taste it. Okay…I wouldn't actually resort to violence, but the urge to lash out, to release my pent-up frustration, was as real as all these unborn babies in my life.

"We have to go," I said, getting up from the table.

Alessia yelled after us, questioning our abrupt departure, but I didn't care. My only goal was to seek shelter in the safety of my home because the fortress I built around my emotions had finally been breached. Falling apart was imminent now. As soon as I crossed the threshold, the pressure that had been building up all week erupted from my mouth as I hollered. I never felt so out of control before. I paced, tugged on my hair, and screamed some more. Sophia stood off to the side for a moment, watching, allowing me to get it out, but then she marched up to me and embraced me tightly as if she were trying to squeeze hope back into me. We collapsed onto the couch and cried together. I probably should have waited to tell her about my hospital visit, but how much more could it hurt? We were already at the bottom.

"Sophia," I said through my tears, "I gotta tell you something."

She sat up to hear my story and wiped my face.

"I went to the doctor. That's where I was earlier... I have low fertility too. I'm so sorry!"

To my surprise, she didn't sink deeper into despair, like I thought she would. She held my hand and showed me the most incredible display of bravery I had ever seen.

"Awwwww, Luca! Are you okay? This isn't your fault. It's no one's fault. It just...is."

I knew she was right, but life really sucked at the moment, and I didn't know how to withstand against all those blows anymore. I thought I was strong enough, but now my wife had to hold me up.

"It's just not fair," I yelled. "Alessia, Yasmine...and even Dub! None of them were trying to get pregnant! Why won't it happen for us? I feel like we're being punished for something, but I don't know what it is! I just want to start a family with you. What's so bad about that?? I've done everything to stay positive and hopeful, but I can't do it anymore! I can't do it, Sophia!"

She wiped my tears and tried to soothe me, telling me it was going to be okay, just like I did for her at the beginning of all this.

"Hey...listen...we can't give up yet, babe. We've got one more trick up our sleeve! How about tomorrow I do the IVF? Forget those treatments!"

"Are you sure? That's surgery."

"It's outpatient. This is my last chance to carry my own child. I have to take it."

"Okay. But only if you want to. I'm fine with adoption if you change your mind, but...I really hope it works."

"Me too."

[storiesbyjes2g]

3.155 What happens next?

The reaper left us to pick up the pieces of our broken lives, but we we're frozen in that spot. All we can do is cry and cling to each other. We cried so long, I felt like we'd never stop. Like, this is our life now, crying until the reaper returns for us. But eventually, we stop crying. Pretty sure our bodies ran out of water or something. Still, we can't move. Less and I just stare at each other with the droopiest of eyes, communicating a message only we understand.

"Luca," she moans. "We don't have parents."

I'm painfully aware of this fact, but hearing it causes my body to start up the emotion factory again. I feel pressure building up everywhere, and I'm not sure how or where it's gonna come out. But then, someone upstairs starts making a racket. It's one of Alessia's, but I go up anyway to check on Desi. Everyone but Arvin is still sleeping peacefully unaware of how our family has changed. Luckily for them, they're much too young to even remember meeting her. That saddens me as much as it relieves me.

Less picks him up and tries soothing him to coax him to nap like everyone else. I take that moment to go make the food I was going to prepare before my life was so rudely interrupted. She eventually gets him to sleep and joins us outside, just as Sophia and I sit down to eat. Forks clanging against porcelain plates, water lapping against the pool wall, shrieks from children at the park a few blocks away, the random whoosh of a car passing, and rapid footsteps of joggers fill in the gaps where conversation usually exists. We finish our food and stare at the empty plates as if looking to them for answers. After a moment, Sophia gets up and takes the leftovers inside. She doesn't come back, so I assume she went to check on the kids.

After all that crying, my voice didn't work very well, so I clear my throat to ask if she ever thought about moving to San Sequoia. I know it's not the right time for that conversation, and she probably never thought about it since Dad died the very next day after suggesting it, but I don't know what else to say. And I feel like she needs to be close to us right now. Yes, it's irrational to think she'd be willing to uproot her life on the heels of losing both parents, but I can't talk about Mama right now. Not yet.

[storiesbyjes2g]

3.154 Didn't see it coming

Mama gives us quick hugs when we arrive, then rushes upstairs to get back on grandma duty. Alessia has never been sensitive, so I'm not surprised she isn't trying to help Mama during her time of need. I hope, at some point, she'll start considering others' feelings and needs before her own. I know better than anyone how important fitness is, but I haven't done my morning yoga in weeks, and I go for a jog when I can. She's not a child anymore. She can't stay in the pool all day while Mama takes care of everything. What will she do when Mama's gone? Instead of dumping the responsibility on her, she needs to learn how to do motherhood and get those trade secrets from an OG while she can.

Since Desiree hadn't met her cousins yet, and the point of this visit is to spend time with Mama, I take her upstairs to get acquainted. She doesn't know who they are or what she's doing in this house, but she seems to enjoy the coos and babbles from the other babies. Breanna is chilling on the play mat, so I set Desi in the empty crib, and for once she doesn't fight or cry. She actually smiles. Is she communicating with her cousins? Perhaps this is the beginning of a beautiful alliance. Mama asks me to watch them for a few moments while she tends the garden, so of course I agree. There's an odd calm in the room. I don't think I've ever been around when all three triplets were satisfied. Grandmas are so magical, I tell ya. I take a moment and gaze at them. Just like Des, they are getting too big too fast. Bre and Arvin might look like their no-good daddy, but they sure are beautiful. Lex is Alessia's mini me. Did she name him that because it sounds like her name?

We didn't eat breakfast because I wanted to get to the house as soon as possible, so I go downstairs to put something on the grill. I don't know why, but I've been really into the grill lately. Maybe that whole man and fire thing has some truth in it. Mama had changed her clothes and hadn't made it to the garden yet, so we walk downstairs together. Well, I go down first and she follows, rather; she's a lot slower these days. As I head out the door, I tell her I'm going to put something on the grill. "Okay. I love you," she says. There's something a little extra warm and fuzzy in that one. Even though she says it all the time, it seems kind of odd for her to throw that in there, so I turn around to say it back. I expect to see her shining face, instead, I see the life oozing out of her.

I stand there for a moment, shocked by my mother's lifeless body on the floor. I did not see that one coming. Like, at all. I'm not ready! Why did it have to happen so soon?! I mean, I know "soon" is a construct of my own mind, and it's just her time, but still! Seeing that hurt. It really really hurts.

"LESS!!!"

The grim reaper shows up, looking like we interrupted his beach vacation or something, and I beg him to give her more time because she has four young grandchildren, and she is a full-time caretaker of three of them. My sister needs her. I plead. I implore. I grovel. When I'm out of reasons for him to revive her, he pulls out his tablet and scrolls through the names, taps on her profile when he sees it, and reads the details of her life. It must be an interesting read because he lets out a "hmmm" now and then, giving me hope he finds something that will convince him not to take her away.

"She's had quite a life," he said, making me even more hopeful. "But my hands are tied. She has no unfinished business. It's her time to go, dude."

Less finally comes in from outside as he tells me this, looking every bit as shocked as me. Sophia starts bawling immediately.

"Sorry for your loss, folks," the reaper says. "Now, if you would excuse me."

He gently side steps us, inching towards Mama's body, and a panic runs through me. I can't watch this. I can't watch him take away my mom's soul, so I rush to the living room to let him destroy what's left of our family.

[storiesbyjes2g]

3.126 Uncle Luca

I loved how my dad loved Sophia. She was his new favorite sim, it seemed. If I ever lost him at a party, all I had to do was find Sophia because he was always somewhere nearby, admiring and watching over her. While Mama was filling me in on Alessia's situation, I saw him give Sophia a gift. He could have simply put it on the table just like everyone else, but he had to hand-deliver it so she knew he cared. If she weren't so wonderful, I think I'd have the right to be jealous, ha ha.

Just like at her birthday party, Sophia was the first one to hit the dancefloor, and one by one, everyone joined her. Even Alessia came out from wherever she was hiding. Previously, Chi Chi had latched onto Sophia and talked her ear off all afternoon, but she found a new friend in my mother, and that made me very nervous. I overheard Mama gushing about becoming a grandmother, and Chi Chi reminisced about Luna's infancy. I just knew they would eventually start talking about me, so I grabbed Less and got out of there.

We went upstairs, and as I stepped inside her room, the reality of her situation hit me hard. The familiar purple and blue color scheme I remembered remained, but everything else had changed. Three cribs had replaced her bed—two blue ones and a purple one. A changing table and other infant furniture crowded the walls, and baby play things lined the floor. These babies not only turned Less' world upside down with their presence, but also they displaced her, and now she slept in my room. I couldn't judge her for not appreciating the joy and privilege of becoming a parent because I had never faced the devastation of having my world upended like that. Me and Sophia's world would change with just one baby, but Less was having THREE she never wanted, and I felt for her.

"Less... I know this is a lot, especially since you didn't want any of it. But you're not alone. Me and Sophia will be here for you."

"No, you won't." Her voice sounded so hopeless and sad. "You're gonna have your own family to worry about and forget all about me."

"What? How could you think that? Yes, I'll be busy with my family, but you're still my family. I could never forget about you. You're my sister! And these babies are my family too. I might not be able to come all the time, but I'd never leave you in a lurch."

"Luca, I... I can't handle this!"

"You can! As soon as you see the babies, you'll know exactly what to do. It's in you! And maybe you won't like them, but you'll love them. And because you love them, you'll do whatever it takes to make sure they have everything they need."

"How do you believe that?" she asked.

"You come from a long line of amazing mothers. I'm sure you'll find your way."

"I doubt that, but I'm glad you believe in me."

I hated seeing her so down and wanted to cheer her up so badly. This moment was probably all wrong for our story, but she loved gossip even more than Mama. If I framed it right, maybe it would boost her spirits.

"You wanna know something Mama doesn't know?"

Her face was still droopy, but it lit up ever so slightly, just as I expected it would.

"Me and Sophia had trouble getting pregnant."

She gasped.

"Turns out we both had low fertility. We had to do IVF."

"Oh, Luca! I feel like such a dunce for complaining around you!"

"It's okay. You didn't know."

"Yeah, but still. Why didn't you say anything?"

"I mean, it doesn't segue well in conversation. 'Luca, I'm pregnant!' 'Oh yeah? I might not be able to have children.' Nah. Besides, by the end we were just so depressed like you are right now. We didn't want to bring anyone into that."

"I understand. I hate that for you, but I'm glad you finally got your baby. Do you want to meet mine? I know they'll be in love with you."

I was very surprised she invited me to feel the babies and hoped she was slowly coming around. I still couldn't believe she had THREE of them in her little body. I placed my hands on her tiny belly and felt an itty bitty bump. It was small, but it was there. Suddenly, hit me that I was an uncle! I never thought I'd be able to say that.

"Hey, little guys! This is Uncle Luca. I know it's a bit crowded in there, but play nice and be good for mommy, okay? I love you all so much!"

"You're such a doofus."

"Thank you, big brother. I don't deserve you."

"It's gonna be okay, Less. We got you."

[storiesbyjes2g]

3.147 Gall, audacity, gumption

A few hours after I got home, Less called me, and my heart stopped. Was this what life would become? Me being afraid to answer the phone every time my sister called? I hated that period of my life. Anyway, I got over myself and answered the phone. Her voice was venomous, and every word she spoke felt like an assault on my eardrums. Apparently Jace had come over to talk, and man did she let him have it. She didn't even let him in the house and served him up on the porch in front of the entire neighborhood. I was so proud of her because she stood on business. Strong women often fell victim to their emotions when it came to the men they loved, and all too often, they found themselves repeating the very mistakes they vowed to avoid. I didn't think Less would go soft and let him back into their lives, but I was glad to hear I was right.

This fool called himself trying to explain and had the audacity to act like the victim! After hearing his sob story, one might think HE was the one who carried THREE babies for a week, delivered them, and took care of them by himself. That little shit!! If I thought Less was angry before, that just revved her up even more. She pulled no punches and sliced and diced, talked about the man's family, and everything under the sun. But nothing she said, no matter how harsh, would change his mind or their situation. He didn't come to get her back, and she didn't want him back. She was tired of yelling into the void, and her emotional cup was already full before he arrived. She didn't have anymore fight left in her and made it painstakingly clear she wanted nothing to do with him. But if he grew up and wanted to be a man who took care of his children, they could talk. In the meantime, she fully expected child support.

That, of all things, riled him up. Not her saying his mother was a llama, or he had weak woohoo game. Parting with his precious simoleons for children HE created upset him the most. He tried to argue her down, saying she knew how his employment was set up and how he didn't make a consistent income. Paying child support for THREE babies would bankrupt him. This fool had the gall to try to guilt her into not going there, trying to appeal to her good nature or whatever. Unluckily for him, Less' good nature was very small, and she told him he should have thought about that before he ran off to another country and married another woman.

That's when the begging started. He apologized every which way. He even apologized for stuff she didn't accuse him of, and I laughed so hard. When he saw she would not be moved, he hit her with the "I still love you" bull, hoping that would be the key. Admittedly, that one almost got her, especially when he began to cry. She would never say it to him, but she still loved him too. Of course she did. Dad always said love doesn't just go away. She said she felt stupid for still being in love with him, but I told her not to expect so much from herself because it would take time. She wasn't wrong for still having feelings for him. But my girl knew crocodile tears when she saw them and sent him packing.

She said she wished she would have punched him. It would have made her feel better, but it didn't feel like the right moment. But if he ever stepped to her again with that woe is me bullshit, she would not hesitate to let him have it. Hopefully, he knew how serious she was and didn't mess around and find out. I felt for her and had only realized just then that she was mourning both our dad and her relationship. I made the mistake of thinking she didn't really care about him because she'd never been in love before and their relationship began so quickly. I figured what Less felt was just those initial strong feelings Mama said were easily confused with love. But she did love him, and now she lost him. She didn't deserve any of that, and I just wanted to hug her.

I really hoped she would be open to moving to San Sequoia, whether she took Dad's house or we moved into a duplex. Our lives were way too busy, and it would be easy for us to get wrapped up in our children's affairs and drift apart. At least if we were neighbors would we see each other from time to time.

[storiesbyjes2g]

3.150 Finding the words

"Thank you, everyone who expressed kind words. I think it's time we hear from the man of the house. Luca..."

"Thanks, Dwayne."

I stand in front of everyone, wondering how to put words together to encapsulate my dad's life. He experienced so much loss and hurt. It defined him for a while, but he overcame it all and found peace in the end. There's a lot I don't know about him because I was too scared to ask, worried it would upset him or bring back painful memories. I thought he was fragile, but he turned out to be one of the strongest sims I know. This loss is the biggest hurdle I've had to jump so far. Dad always supported me like a parachute. He wasn't always around, but he when I needed him, he was right there ready to gently guide me to safety. Heh, that would have made an okay speech and wish I would have said that aloud instead. My audience awaits me, so I gaze at the urn for a few moments, hoping to draw inspiration from him one last time while I'm still in his presence, kinda.

"It's nice to hear I'm not the only one who thinks my dad is the man."

My goal was not humor, but pockets of laughter spread across the room anyway. I'm sure we all enjoyed the brief levity.

"No, but seriously. I appreciate you all being here and saying such nice things about him. My dad was just one of those guys, you know? I've never known anyone to dislike him. I wouldn't be the man I am today without him. He was so wise. This is a big one, guys..."

I cleared my throat a few times as the words bottleneck in my throat. Maira, who was sitting behind me, grabbed my hand and gave it a gentle squeeze and told me it was okay. I needed that. Still, I think I should wrap it up before I lose my cool.

"I know he didn't try to be amazing, but he always knew just the right thing to say. I think that's a goal we could all have. Live in such a way where when we're gone, we leave a huge hole in other's lives. He had challenges, but his life meant something. Things didn't turn out how he wanted them to, but his life was definitely something worth celebrating. So ... Yeah ... Thanks for coming. Enjoy the food."

[storiesbyjes2g]

3.130 Whoop that trick

At dawn, Sophia got up to pee, so I pulled myself out of bed to make breakfast because I knew she'd be hungry and head for the kitchen next. I felt like trying my French toast recipe again, as I hadn't perfected it yet. Cooking for Sophia had proven to be even more frustrating than cooking for Dad, because nearly everything contained dairy in some form. Scouring the internet every day for something new to try had gotten really old, so I started buying plant-based milk for my sanity. I think she appreciated it too because sometimes the temptation to eat dairy was so strong she gave in, damning the discomfort of bubble guts. How anyone could live life without cheese, I didn't know.

"Mmmmm, that smells so good," Sophia cooed.

"Thanks. I think I got it right this time."

The plant-based milk worked well for most things, but I needed to make adjustments to my custard. In my initial trials, either the bread came out too soggy, or it developed an eggy crust while it cooked. Everything looked perfect this time, so I hoped to remember what I did for next time.

"Okay, so hear me out," she started.

I had no idea what she was about to suggest, but I knew it would involve her not resting at home.

"It's Night Out on the Town tonight! We should go."

"Is that a good idea? You're due literally at any moment now."

"Okay, yeah, but this might be our last night as a child-free couple! We should spend some time together before we have to start scheduling it."

I wanted to come up with an irrefutable rebuttal, but I had none. Her logic was sound, as always. She'd been cooped up inside a lot lately, anyway. It wouldn't hurt to leave the house for a little while. It's not like we were going jogging around the lake or anything.

"Okay. But we're going to stay in town. There's a nice restaurant in Anchorpoint Wharf I've been wanting to take you to."

She clapped and did a little happy jig in her chair. I loved that woman.

Kooper and Rosie were getting old. Their coats turned gray, they slept a lot, and they walked a little slower. None of that seemed to stop them from running around the house like a pair of puppies, though. Rosie still demanded that Kooper play with her and dashed around the house and yard like she was training for a marathon. I loved that their age didn't stop them from having a good time. I was playing with Kooper when I realized something that stopped me dead in my tracks.

"Oh my Watcher," I shouted.

Sophia was behind me, asking what was the matter. I didn't mean to startle her, but it just occurred to me that Alessia might have her babies today!

"We need to get to Mama's house!"

She started to ask why, but I had already dialed Dad's number to see if he would come. Once she overheard my end of the conversation, she went upstairs immediately and got dressed. Dad said he was already on his way and would meet us there.

When we arrived, Mama wasted no time checking up on Sophia and loving on her youngest grandchild. She hammered her with a bunch of questions, like if she was getting enough rest and if she had experienced early contractions. All moms were lay doctors, I guess. Just as I had begun to think it was nice to have the whole family together again, loud forbidden words and angry screams rang out from upstairs, followed by rapid stomps heading in our direction.

"I'M GOING TO MURDER HIM," Alessia yelled.

"I'M GOING TO FIND HIM AND PUNCH IN HIS PRETTY FACE!! AND THEN I'M GOING TO CUT OFF HIS-"

"Whoa, Less," I said. "What in the world happened?"

Her face was as red as a strawberry, and her eyebrows scowled, just like an angry cartoon character. The lasers shooting from her eyes made me want to stay out of her way, but I needed to know what and who upset her so.

"JACE happened!! He's a PUNK!! Ol' llama-faced liar!!! I'M GONNA KILL HIM!"

"What did he do, Less?"

"He went back to his ex! IN MT. KOMOREBI!! And he married her!! He f#@$ing MARRIED her!!! HE SAID HE LOVED ME!! Ever since we found out it was triplets he's been weird!! HE IS DEAD TO ME!!!"

Mama had previously gone to the kitchen, no doubt to be near Dad when she noticed him taking out the trash, leaving only me to diffuse the situation. Alessia's anger was palpable, like an electric current coursing through the room. I had never seen her like that before, and it both scared and fueled me. I tried balling my fists and breathing extra slow and deep to keep myself from going off, but thoughts of confronting that piece of shit and laying hands on him stirred a fire inside me. There was no kind, gentle way to deal with this, and if I ever saw that cowplant turd in the street, it would be on sight! Nobody betrayed my sister and got away with it. I should have known something was up when he bailed at the baby shower. I saw him when we arrived, but after that, he was nowhere to be found. How could he weasel his way into my sister's fortified heart, knock her up, and leave her with THREE babies??? Did he really think running away to the mountain would absolve him of fatherhood? Like, did he not know child support was a thing? And he had THREE to support?? What an idiot! COWARD!! I hoped his wife had a real job because I knew Alessia would try to milk him dry. He'll be sorry he even met her! The sheer audacity of it all made my blood boil.

I was concerned about my niece and nephews and finally got Less to sit down. She didn't exactly calm down, because how could she? But she and I had a great time plotting and scheming against ol' Jace, planning what we'd do to him the next time we saw him. True, that wasn't healthy either, but it sure was fun. Revenge wasn't really Sophia's style, and she remained quiet. She also didn't have a sibling she would take up for at any moment, so she didn't understand why I acted like that and occasionally tried to talk sense into us.

But just like when she was a kid, Less found it hard to sit still and be calm, so she jumped up and paced the room, fuming like a teakettle. Even though he would eventually find out, I hoped Dad was still outside during Alessia's initial rant. Her situation was way too close to home, and I feared it might trigger him, especially being in Mama's house with all of us. But like I said, he would eventually find out. He and Mama came out from wherever they were, asking what all the yelling was about. I guess Mama had enough of Less' pregnant mood swings to come find out immediately. Less filled them in, and I saw a quiet rage growing within my dad. He looked just like how I felt. Maybe we could take another family trip to Mt. Komorebi and murder him together, heh.

I saw Mama eyeing me, as if to silently ask what we should do as the expert on all things mind, body, and soul. But I had no answers for her. My mind was set on destroying Jace, and my body was ready for it. I felt that in my soul, ha!

"I think we all need a dip in the pool," she said. "That should relax these tense mommies, right buddy?"

I sensed both sincerity and sarcasm in her tone, as she seemed disappointed that I provoked instead of diffusing the situation. Either way, she was right. Less definitely needed to calm down, but the rest of us did too, so we got changed and hopped into the pool.

[storiesbyjes2g]

3.151 Farewell

Mama was right about traveling with a baby. We take so long to get out of the house now because we have to pack what feels like luggage for a week-long vacation. We've gotta bring the portable crib for nap time, toys to keep her entertained, snacks, and the back carrier in case she gets too heavy for us. And this is just us leaving when we're already dressed. I can't imagine how much earlier we'll have to start our days whenever we go out in the future. It already takes Sophia forever to do her hair, and now that I've grown mine out, I've added a few extra minutes to my routine too. And now we have a little one to throw into the mix.

Since the cemetery was close to the house, Alessia and Mama went home to change and check on the babies while we packed up everything we needed for Desi. They met us there, and everyone looked to me for guidance on how to proceed. I always felt like the de facto man of the house when we lived with Mama, and even sometimes at Dad's house. But now that he is gone, that mantle has fallen officially on me, and I feel weird about it. On one hand, it feels familiar. But on the other, it's yet another reminder that I'm flying solo. His shoes are huge, and the thought of trying to fill them is intimidating. If I'm honest, I'd rather not. But if I can channel even a fraction of his wisdom, and Desiree grows up more confidant and stronger than me, maybe it's worth a shot.

"Mama, do you want to say anything?"

I might be the leader of this family now, but I can sure defer to my elder while she's still here.

She nodded.

"I never stopped loving him, and I'm thankful for the good times we had and wish there could have been more of them. I'm thankful for the children he gave me. Most of all, I'm thankful for his forgiveness."

I look at my sister.

"Less?"

At first, she shook her head as I expected she would. But when I turned to Sophia, a flash of panic flickered on her face as if to realize the opportunity she was about to pass up.

"I love you, Daddy," she said.

Alessia's tender side was a rare treat, and it almost broke me. Sure, it was just us, and I could let it out in front of my family; that was the reason Mama suggested we make this moment private. But the pressure of "being in charge" made me feel like I needed to keep it together.

"Ali was the first one I met when Luca and I started dating," Sophia said. "One of my favorite things about meeting parents is seeing what your partner, and even your friends, will be like in a few years. Not just what they're going to look like, but how they'll be and where they get their qualities from. I saw all of Luca's gentleness and charm in Ali. He gets his care and concern from you, Emmy. I knew Luca was the one pretty early on, but when I met Ali, I was extra confident Luca was the right man for me. I didn't get to know him for long, but I'll still miss him."

I squeeze her hand like Maira did for me earlier. I could talk all night about how great my dad was, but it seems like the more I open my mouth, the more I feel the pressure that's been building all day. Besides, I already spoke at the house, so I take the urn and place it on the plot next to Gammy, grandpa Winston, and Mama's dogs. We stand there, gazing at it in silence, not wanting to depart just yet, but the rain Mama alluded to finally began. It's light at first, not even enough for an umbrella, but Sophia wanted to get Desiree home. It's a good idea, especially because the temperature is much cooler in Newcrest today. We gather ourselves and take a step toward the gate. That's when the pressure breached the dam, and I could no longer hold it together.