#sims4nsbstraud

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Today's (11/25/2024) Episode: Retail Reinvention

Skye’s parents seemed happy with Elyse’s plan to take him shopping: “Have fun you two… and don’t spend all our simoleons in one place!”

However, as soon as the kids were out of sight Luigi dopped his smile and turned to Noemi. “I was really looking forward to helping Skye pick out some new outfits, and maybe even one for myself. I didn’t feel right shooting down their little master plan though. He would have been devastated.”

Noemi nodded. “I know what you mean. I worry about them out there where we can’t guide and help them, but encouraging his initiative is key to helping him grow up. After all, this is just a trip to the local retail shop, not Selvadorada.”

Luigi wandered around moodily until Noemi gave him a kiss and suggested: “Letting them go by themselves was the right choice, but there’s no reason we can’t go shopping ourselves. A little retail therapy for that outfit you wanted, and maybe a quick visit to the gym, will make you feel better.”

“That sounds marvelous” Luigi told her “I knew I married you for a reason!” Noemi punched him lightly on the shoulder at that, laughing before taking his hand and following the path the younger generation had just recently gone down, arriving in no time at their own shopping destination.

At a much less upscale shop than his parents were visiting Skye stared critically at his reflection in the mirror “Do you really think I can pull this off?”

“You look great!” Elyse assured him “I love that top on you, its perfect and it pairs really well with your new glasses. Now get changed while I grab the other things we picked out and we’ll head over to the makeup counter. Some dark eyeshadow and lipstick is essential to complete the look.”

“There… all finished” the salesclerk told him a few minutes later “what do you think?”

Skye had felt unsure about his new fashion choices, but he surprised himself by loving the makeup “Its perfect… thank you so much” he gushed as the smiling clerk tossed all the eyeshadow and lipstick she had used into his shopping basket for him to bring home.

“Elyse, come smell this!” Skye called out as they trailed behind the sales sim “Maybe I can get some of this too?”

“Skye, that’s perfume silly!” Elyse laughed at his confused expression. “Girls wear perfume, boys wear cologne… everyone knows that!” she sighed “What AM I going to do with you!? Come on, let’s pay for your makeup and then we’ll find something to make you smell nice and manly”.

Returning as promised to the table full of scents Skye let Elyse guide him towards some cologne that he thought smelled OK. He still didn’t see why he couldn’t just buy the awesome perfume, but he trusted his friend and certainly didn’t want to be laughed at for “doing it wrong”.

“You’ll love this – trust me!” Elyse declared as they ended their trip at a nail salon. “One pedicure and one foot massage please” she asked the clerk.

“Pick your color” the sales associate said, pointing towards the nail samples “Oh, look at that sparkly blue!” Skye exclaimed, “I want that one!”

“Skye” Elyse shook her head, “I’M getting the pedicure, you’re getting a foot massage. They don’t paint your nails with that.”

“Well then, I want a pedicure too.” he told her, but she only shook her head again. “Boys don’t paint their nails, Skye. Seriously.”

Skye really wanted to wear the pretty polish, but he couldn’t recall seeing any of his guy friends with painted nails, so he didn’t argue. That didn’t stop him from glancing at the array of sparkly colors the whole time he was getting his massage. It seemed unfair that he wasn’t allowed to sparkle.

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Today's (10/17/2024) Episode: Tough Decisions

When Luigi got home from the stadium, he had the unenviable job of telling his wife what Doc had said.

Noemi eyed the wrist brace he’d slipped on as soon as he arrived suspiciously while he began with the good news of his victory. Her expression darkened as he moved on to recounting the trainer’s suspicions and his flimsy justifications for ignoring everyone’s warnings and advice to rest his hand.

"Lu… your job is not as important as your health!" she eventually berated him. “I can’t believe I have to babysit you, but you’ll make the same dumb choices about your next tournament and Rainy Day’s inevitable request for DLC and updates to Watcher Tales if I don’t keep an eye on you…!" 

Given the way he was feeling just then, Luigi couldn't even argue with her. He'd achieved those all-important professional goals, but at what cost?

The price for his hubris was revealed at Luigi’s appointment with the hand specialist. With a few tests Dr. Cody confirmed Doc Leonard’s suspicion that Luigi had sustained some permanent nerve damage and echoed the trainer's assessment that surgery was the best option for his long-term recovery. 

"I’m definitely not interested in surgery“ Luigi told her right away, prompting Noemi to question "Lu, what could it hurt to learn more about…”

He fired back unusually gruffly: "No! absolutely not" before asking the Dr. “What else can you offer me, because surgery isn't happening."

They finally settled on trying steroid injections.

“The effectiveness varies patient to patient and the benefits are only temporary” the provider told them “but they should offer you some relief. I also strongly recommend you change your lifestyle and minimize activities that aggravate your condition. That includes intensive computer work." 

Luigi was glad to see some improvement after his first injection. He also finally accepted the fact that something had to give in his professional life. In the end that decision was a simple one, even if it broke his heart a little to do what he felt he had to do.

A few days after his championship win Luigi was seated in the press room with Rainy Day’s E-Sports coaching staff.

"From the time I was a teenager I knew I wanted to play SimScuffle professionally" he began “As many of you know I got my start on Foxbury’s collegiate team, and when that amazing journey ended, I was lucky enough to be recruited by Rainy Day.” He paused and took a deep breath.

“Today I’m here to announce that I am officially retiring from competitive play.”

The teams head coach took over then “Luigi’s mentorship abilities and strategic insights have elevated our team’s profile and performance immensely. We are excited to transition him into a permanent role as our new director of strategy and recruitment. We’re looking forward to what the future holds.”

As he focused his attention on the press and prepared to answer questions Luigi reflected that, while this was not the way he’d wanted his E-Sports career to end, he was eager to tackle this new challenge in the days and weeks to come.

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Not So Berry (Straud Descendants) Gen 9

Today's (9/19/2024) Episode: Market Mayhem

Before Luigi had a chance to sit down and start overanalyzing his SimTube trends he got an unexpected phone call.

It seemed Grandpa Steven’s spirit had popped into the world of the living for a visit and wanted to see his family at the Flea Market. Since his son had less opportunity to visit with his ancestors than Luigi had growing up at the homestead, he quickly agreed.

“We’ll be right there.” he said, hanging up and turning to his wife. “We have to go see my grandpa… I think you’ll like him; he was an author.”

“Steven Lothario?” Noemi asked, “I’ve enjoyed a few of his books. As I recall he was a recluse who preferred the company of his llama to throngs of adoring fans; I think we’ll get along just fine.” Luigi wasn’t sure he’d characterize his grandfather as a recluse, but he wasn’t going to contradict her on that perceived similarity.

Arriving at the market Luigi quickly said hi to the ghost who Noemi recognized from his book jackets before introducing her and Skye “It’s a pleasure to meet you” Steven told her, then turned to his great-grandson “Well hello Skye! Just like your shirt, hmm. Is that your favorite color?”

Noemi cringed inwardly at the crowd of people gathered at the market across the way, but she didn’t get a chance to dwell on it. Suddenly someone called out “I can’t believe it! It’s the Wedding Dancers!” Luigi headed over to say hello while Noemi waved shyly.

Focused on the stranger, neither parent saw Skye panic as his grandfather went to give him a hug, but they heard Steven yelp as their son kicked him.

Luigi didn’t break away from taking a selfie with the fan, judging that he could deal with the latest hijinks of his tiny terror afterward.

Noemi jumped in right away but was distracted from the actual sources of the commotion when she spotted a paparazzo eagerly snapping photos inches from the angry toddler and the spirit rubbing his smarting shin, with her seemingly uncaring husband directly in the background.

She’d heard Luigi complain about his public image often enough to know that this wouldn’t be a good look, so she stepped directly between him and the camera as she apologized to the ancestral spirit. “I’m so sorry, he’s been having some issues dealing with his feelings lately.”

Steven nodded, rubbing his leg “I had two of my own, I know how it is. He’s stronger than he looks!”  He smiled fondly at the pouting baby, whose mother had turned her back to the photographer as she scooped him up to scold him for his bad behavior.

Luigi finished with the fan and headed back their way. Putting Skye down, Noemi turned to him and explained what had happened.

Before he could say anything Steven piped up “Paparazzi!? Oh no. I’d hate to have a picture like that get into the paper.” Luigi knew his grandfather had always been shy about public attention, rarely taking interviews, preferring to let his work speak for itself. Even Luigi wasn’t thrilled about this interaction. As much as he loved the spotlight, he had a strong desire to control how his image and reputation were presented in the media.

“They’re the scum of the earth!” he agreed. “Why don’t all of you go into the gaming center, get out of the open? I’ll see if I can talk her into using the least unflattering images.”

Noemi gave him a worried look but was feeling too overwhelmed just then to argue. “Please don’t do anything rash” she pleaded as she left.

“Come on little man” Steven told Skye as they headed inside “We’ll find a table and I can show you the book I wrote for your daddy when he was just a little bit younger than you are now.”

Luigi spotted his target standing a few steps away, reviewing the footage on her camera. Just seeing the look of satisfaction on her face made his temperature rise, but he did his best to control his anger as he headed over to have a little chat with the unwanted intruder into his family reunion.

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Not So Berry (Straud Descendants) Gen 9

Today's (9/18/2024) Episode: Back to Reality

Noemi and Luigi popped home just long enough to drop off their Batuu souvenirs and bags , then headed right back out to pick up Skye and Blossom.

“It was great to have some time just for us” Noemi said as they climbed the steps to Isra and Rhy’s place “but I’m ready to see my baby!” Luigi just smiled and nodded. He didn’t feel nearly as ready to dive back into “that parenthood life”, but he wasn’t about to disappoint her by saying so.

They waved at Isra and the kids through the door, but as soon as little Skye spotted his mom he took off like a tiny parent-seeking rocket.

Isra wasn’t able to catch him in time and the toddler smacked face first into the nearly invisible glass. Fortunately, maternal comfort was close at hand. “Shhh, you’re OK, mommy and daddy are here now, we missed you so much.” Noemi whispered as she wrapped him in a hug.

“momma back now” Skye echoed, his tears subsiding quickly under her loving ministrations as his little friend played happily beside him, quite used to his drama by now. Luigi was hanging back to let Noemi handle it when Isra stepped up next to him to have a quiet private word.

“Luigi” she began “I have to tell you; Skye was a little… aggressive while he was here. He was fine with the older kids, but we had some issues with the infants. First, he bit Orson when he tried to take a toy Skye was playing with. Then yesterday, during a playdate with Beau and Breanne on the beach, he hit Betty after she accidently messed up his sandcastle. We convinced Beau not to bother you, but he’s pretty mad. You should talk to him.”

Luigi didn’t know what to say, finally landing on “I’m sorry about that. I know Skye likes things just so and he’s not used to sharing.”

Gesturing towards the back patio where Noemi had settled with the tiny terror in question for a game of peek-a-boo he continued “He was obviously missing us too. I’m sure now that we’re back, he’ll calm down. Also, thanks for the heads up about Beau, I’ll call him soon.”

Isra followed Luigi outside to join the others. Wanting to make sure she knew he was taking the information she’d provided seriously Luigi wasted no time filling Noemi in: “Honey, Isra was telling me that Skye here wasn’t very nice to the little ones while we were gone.”

Noemi was appalled when she heard what had happened, immediately telling Skye: “We don’t treat other sims that way! We have to be nice to our friends or they won’t want to play with us. Now you say sorry to Ms. Isra, and then we’re going to go find Orson and say sorry to him too.”

“Sorry” Skye parroted, looking vaguely in Isra’s direction “Thank you” she replied “Everybody makes mistakes. I’m sure Orson will forgive you too.”

As Noemi led Skye inside to the nursery, where Isra indicated the twins had just woken up from a nap, Rhys appeared. “Welcome back man!” he greeted Luigi “Can you believe the hype around the video you posted of your wedding dance!?”

“What hype?” Luigi said, all ears. “Part of the Batuu experience is avoiding interaction with the outside world as much as possible.”

Rhys shook his head in disbelief “Oh wow, they really keep you isolated at that theme park. Well, come on upstairs – you’ve got to see this.”

Luigi could hardly believe the millions of views listed under his SimTube video. “People are talking about it, and you, everywhere” Rhys told him “I know the PR department at work is going to want to capitalize on this while it’s still viral. I’d say you’re a proper celebrity now – congratulations!”

Thanking Rhys for the good news Luigi hurried downstairs to find Blossom and leave. He was eager get home and take a serious look at his SimTube analytics dashboard. His older videos were sure to be seeing an uptick in viewership thanks to this, and he was dying to review everything.

Noemi wasn’t thrilled to be the other half of the dance video that was apparently sweeping the nation, but she tried her best to take it in stride. She knew Luigi loved the fans and the fame, and she loved him. It was why she’d agreed to let him film them after all.

Collecting Blossom from under their friend’s couch, they agreed to catch up again soon before heading down the beach towards home.

In game I actually moved Skye into Isra’s household to live “that NPC life” for a couple days while I took his parents on their honeymoon, and this is what I came back to 🤪🤭!

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Today's (1/13/2025) Episode: A New Old Friend

“Welcome back kid!” Gretchen grinned, patting Skye on the back as they left their first meeting of the school paper for the new school term. “How did your slightly extended break treat ya?”

“The break was all right, but the new school year has me feeling really stressed.” Skye sighed “I’ve got a ton of make-up work to do from being out for surgery and there’s apparently some sort of hardware holding my bones in place under here…” xe gestured at xir cast “that’s making my arm really sore. I’m worried its not going to heal right. I just want to be able to take photos, cook, and write in my journal like I used to. Its so frustrating!”

Gretchen nodded absently. Reminder to self, never ask Skye how xe’s doing unless you want the unvarnished truth, she thought.

“That’s rough” she finally said “I hope it all works out for you. You and your girl should come hang with me and my girlfriend this weekend, take your mind off things. My dad got us VIP access to this amazing photography exhibit at the Plumbob Pictures museum that you’d love. What do you say?”

“Sounds great” Skye smiled “Seeing other artists work is great inspiration for me, and I can cover the event for my uncle’s blog.”

“Alright, but remember, just like this mountain climbing contest we’re covering now – no flash photos! It’s distracting for all the other guests and might even degrade the prints.” She chuckled as they approached the Komorebi teleporter. “Although the pictures are less likely to fall off the wall.”

At the mountainside, the newspaper duo made their way to where a small crowd of high schoolers was gathered, all decked out in climbing gear.

Gretchen helped setup Skye’s tripod before heading over to talk to the adventure clubs team captain. Through the viewfinder’s zoom Skye focused on the students and was stunned. Wow… xe thought, captivated by the sight of a pretty red head who was fearlessly ascending. She’s amazing!

When the attractive daredevil hopped down and made a beeline for xem Skye realized that the stranger’s features weren’t actually strange. “Betty!? When was your birthday? I thought for sure Uncle Beau would have had us all over for cake and some sort of contest with my dad.”

Bruce’s adventurous younger sister cheerfully explained: “Just yesterday actually. I had my folks take us out here for an early family vacation so I could get some practice on these cliffs for my first competition. How’s it been hanging with you and your fam?”

“Clearly not as well as you’ve been hanging.” Skye gestured towards the cliff face. “I guess you’re one of the Copperdale Fearless Flyers now?”

She grinned “That’s me, taking life one cliff face at a time. You could join me if you ever get that thing off” she gestured towards xir cast.

Skye laughed and shook xir head firmly. “Not me! I get dizzy just walking downstairs from newspaper club.” At the mention of the newspaper xe glanced over to where Gretchen was furiously scribbling the final results into her notepad. “If you help me pack up this camera, I’ll escort you over to my intrepid reporter friend for a post-contest interview. Its going to be so nice to have another friendly face around school!”

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Not So Berry (Straud Descendants) Gen 9

Today's (9/13/2024) Episode: Mission Interruptus

As Noemi and Luigi approached the leader of the local rebel faction about their next mission, they were surprised to see her throw her spanner to the ground and let loose with a string of forbidden words. She jumped as she noticed the pair. “Forgive me! You must be our hard-working new recruits. I have some good news and some bad news for you. The good news is that if I can’t fix my ship, then we can’t be shot down.”

“Is there anything we can do to help?” Noemi asked, since that seemed to be the obvious path forward here.

“Well, I can always use more hands to rustle up possible replacement parts, but I’d most appreciate help avoiding that “shoot us down” thing. I hear you’re pretty handy with a data spike. If you can use this to scramble the First Order’s tracking system, our odds of surviving our trip go way up.”

Luigi wanted to try the hacking minigame on this mission. They traveled to the First Order main control tower and found an access panel tucked out of the way. He inserted the data spike and asked Noemi to watch his back as he worked to penetrate the layers of protection.

“Don’t worry” she replied, “if I see any sign of a patrol, I’ll alert you. Just watch out for the countermeasure programs, this one looks tougher.”

Luigi smiled nervously as he began the process of rewriting the code. Logically he knew it was all pretend, but the park did their job well and just like the day before it felt very real. He was almost done when Noemi called out “You might want to hurry it up, I see a Storm Trooper headed this way”.

He fumbled a sequence in his haste and was shocked, literally, when the screen flashed red and arced with “harmless” static electric defenses.

That famous special effect was supposed to be safe, but suddenly Luigi’s mousing hand went completely numb. He started dropping forbidden words left and right as he massaged a hand that felt like dead wood. Noemi rushed over, roleplaying forgotten as she asked what was wrong.

“My hand… I can’t feel my hand” he gasped out “I made a mistake, got shocked. It’s supposed to be immersive, but this doesn’t feel OK at all!”

Noemi did her best to comfort him. “Hang in there, we’ll figure this out.” She paused then, asking quietly “Could this have anything to do with your Carpel Tunnel? I know that makes your hand “fall asleep” sometimes, but they should have accounted for that if it was going to be a problem when they programmed your data pad. Did you put that on the medical form they gave us to fill out at check-in?”

Luigi hung his head “No. I didn’t see what difference it could make.” He didn’t add that he hadn’t wanted to be restricted from any missions, but he wasn’t fooling his spouse by leaving that out. Noemi sighed “I gotta be honest, that was a boneheaded move. Still, what’s done is done. Let’s find the first aid station, we need to get you looked at, and maybe they should check over that machine too.”

By the time they located the nearest first aid station and got checked in Luigi was feeling relatively better. The pins and needles were uncomfortable, but at least he could feel something and just then that was a vast improvement.

The medic confirmed that the shock had likely inflamed Luigi’s Carpel Tunnel. After a stern reminder to list all medical conditions on the waiver for his own safety she reprogrammed his datapad to prevent future shock effects. “You can try the mission again, but you’ll be at a disadvantage if you don’t wait to recover full use of that hand first.”

Exiting the clinic Noemi asked “OK, so we’ve got some time to kill. What do you want to do?”

“Honestly” Luigi replied, “After that what I need is a stiff drink!”

Goal in mind, their path turned once more to their favorite attraction: The Cantina. Luigi got his stiff drink, but he’d forgotten just how stiff some of them could be!

The Dagobah Slug Slinger was low in sugar because its juices had been converted into high-octane punch. He was also much older than the last time he’d had this particular “park exclusive”, and his tolerance had fallen off with his drinking habits, now that his diet excluded his favorite cocktails.

Noemi fought hard to hold back a laugh when she realized her spouse was literally reeling. “Come on champ” she said, “It’s time to get you to bed.”

“But the miz-shon…” Luigi slurred plaintively. “Can wait until morning” she replied.

Gathering him under her arm Noemi helped her tipsy boy towards the door, asking on the way “How’s your hand?”

“Ach’y” he said with a big sigh “Itz not fair!” “No, its not fair” she agreed, kissing him lightly on the cheek “and I’m sorry, but I’ll make sure to grab an ice pack on the way to our room for you.”

“I wuv you” he blubbered “I know” she replied with a chuckle as she led them both slowly down the path towards some much-needed rest.

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Today's (10/30/2024) Episode: An Evening of Contests

After a morning spent gaming and learning indoors, Luigi’s family and their foundation friends were ready to enjoy some fresh air and sunshine.

He’d prepared a fun and wholesome event to cap off the foundation livestream, gathering everyone on a nearby beach. Isra, who still worked at the Observe to Conserve foundation took point, explaining a bit of the conservation work they did, and also specifically how trash left on the beach by careless Sims could harm not just the beauty of the environment, but also the health of the native plants and animals living there.

Then she and Luigi showed off a collection of prizes. They divided the attendees into small groups and promised first choice of prizes to whichever group collected the most trash over the next hour or so.

The kids of various ages were excited to roam up and down the beach, picking up anything that didn’t belong and collecting inventories full of trash they hoped to exchange for priority access to one prize or another they had liked.

Some of them, especially the younger ones, were perhaps a bit more distracted exploring the pretty beach than cleaning it, but Isra had experience with this. As they got closer to the designated time she made regular announcements, and by the last 5 minutes everyone was clustered around the last few uncleaned feet of beach hunting for last minute “treasures”.

Yoshi collected great footage of it all, including Isra’s little awards ceremony and her final pitch for the kids to keep Sulani Beautiful as they left.

After the kids dispersed with their winnings, Luigi headed back to the gaming center where he had arranged to meetup with Professor Silva.

He wasn’t the only one looking forward to seeing his old faculty mentor.  A number of his old Foxbury E-Sports teammates came too, engaging in an impromptu mini-tourney. Much to the chagrin of the professional e-sports players there, Luigi’s college fling Jade won the day.

Yoshi was taking a charging break, but Skye captured several pictures of his father’s defeat, not that Lawbourne senior was too broken up about his loss. “Some of my fondest memories are playing games with you guys at the University commons, and this was a great walk down memory lane!”

“If you’re up for more reminiscing, the E-Sports team has their big game coming up in just a few hours” Professor Silva mentioned. “I’d love for you all to head back to campus with me and cheer on my current crew; maybe pick out your favorites for the Rainy Day internship program?”

Noemi and several others were only too happy to spin into their winter wear and teleport to the stadium at their old Alma Mater.

“Your mom and I made so many great memories here” Luigi told his son as they walked through campus. “When you’re old enough we should take the college tour so you can see everything Foxbury has to offer.” Skye nodded shyly, not wanting to disappoint his parents, but in truth the big, cold lot intimidated him. He wasn’t so sure about this whole “university” thing.

The game was well worth the price of admission. The two teams were neck and neck all evening, but in the end, for the first time in a long time, Foxbury won the day. “You did it – congrats man!” Luigi enthused to his old mentor as they were leaving the stadium.

 “Thank you for supporting the team,” Coach Silva replied, “I’ve got to get back to my champions, but your advice and help made a big difference.”

By the time the game ended it was quite late, but no one wanted to go to bed without ringing in the new year. To that end they made their way back to the gaming center to end the evening in style. 

“Shushubie… shushubie… Fleeba Zoob!” the large group of Luigi’s favorite sims cried as the New Year’s countdown ticked over to midnight.

A recharged Yoshi was cruising the crowd with the other streaming cameras, capturing the celebration as everyone thanked their viewers for contributing to the big fundraiser earlier in the day. With hugs all around, and a strange question from Skye about how long teeth took to digest (where, Luigi wondered, did kids get these ideas!?) the large happy family started the new year off right: with a dance party of course.

Luigi didn’t know how things would look a year from now, but it seemed unlikely he’d be able to top that day’s accomplishments.

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Today's (10/10/2024) Episode: Naughty or Nice

Noemi had been overjoyed to get Denton’s invitation and jumped right into grilling him when they arrived “Congratulations! Tell us everything!”

“Well,” Denton began “We had already arranged to adopt Peter after the holidays, but Hunter called this morning. Apparently, a scared young wolf desperately needed a room, and The Collective asked if the missus and I could help them out by taking our boy a bit sooner than planned.”

At Luigi’s puzzled look around for the rest of the family Denton continued: “Bridget’s visiting her folks with Markus while Peter gets comfortable here, but I realized that for someone used to The Collective, it’s far too quiet. That’s why I asked you to come over and say hi when I saw you on the news.”

On the other side of the room Peter was definitely not lonely anymore; proudly posing for a picture in front of his magnificent new dollhouse.

The boys were happily playing when out of nowhere Father Winter popped out of the fireplace! They immediately stopped what they were doing to run over and say hello, excitedly asking for presents from the jolly old elf.

“Happy Winterfest young man and congratulations on your new forever family!” Father Winter told Peter. As he ran to his father for help unboxing his gift, Skye waited expectantly for his own special surprise. However, instead of producing a second gayly wrapped package the old sim shook his head.

Confusion turned to mortification as Skye realized he was being rebuffed and he started  cry, devastated and clueless as to why this was happening.

The mythical holiday mascot rose to take his leave, only to find his path blocked by the slighted sims furious father. “I don’t know what your problem is” Luigi cried “But giving Peter a gift right in front of my boy and then turning him away, on his birthday no less, is just cruel.”

“Skye was denied a gift because of his misbehavior as a toddler.” Father Winter replied sagely “If he’s a good child next year things will be different when I visit again.” Skye, who was still sobbing in his mothers arms a few feet away whimpered “I’m sorry! I promise I’ll be good.”

Once again Luigi had to bring every one of the anger management coping skills he’d learned in therapy to bear to refrain from slugging the smug old sim right in the face. “YOU.ARE.THE.WORST!” he finally said, stepping away from the door and going to join Noemi in consoling his distraught little boy.

Once Skye calmed down Luigi told Denton “We need to get going man, we’re running late to a potluck on the beach with my teammates and their kids.”

“No problem” Denton replied, “Say hello to Beau for me.” He paused as he got to the door. “Sorry about what happened with Father Winter. If I’d realized I would have warned you, that Plumhole pulled the same stunt on me for the same reason when I was Skye’s age.”

“Not your fault” Luigi shrugged, “You had no way of knowing. Anyway, thanks for having us over and congratulations, Peter seems like a great kid.”

Turning back to Skye and Noemi Luigi asked them “Are you ready to go see our island friends and end the night right?” Skye nodded, smiling through his tears, and the three of them left the city behind to head to their final Winterfest destination on the sunny shores of Sulani.

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NSB (Straud Legacy) Gen 9 Ep 99: A Little Love Day Assist

Luigi was still anxiously awaiting Peachy’s call the day before the Love Day that he had promised Noemi would be especially memorable.

He was starting to consider what kind of amateur romantic proposal he could whip up himself at the last minute when his father finally let him know that everything was ready for them in Oasis Springs. He’d really expected someplace more like Tartosa, well known for its romantic atmosphere, but he trusted whatever love guru his dad had consulted and gratefully agreed to bring Noemi there after classes the following day.

Usually this close to a big game Luigi wouldn’t miss practice with his team, but his fiery co-captain had pushed him to take the night off.

“Your highness has an heir on the way! You need to stock up on fun times and goodwill with your lady now, while you have the time and energy!”

Luigi smiled. “Is that the wisdom of a new father, or a cry for help? I’m happy to cover so you can have a night off with Bruce and Brianne sometime.”

Beau laughed in response. “Yes, yes, and yes! But right now, let’s talk early morning Love Day gift strategy.” His advice helped Luigi be ready with a novel to give Noemi after she surprised him with a beautiful card the next morning, starting their grand holiday adventure off right.

When the couple got to Oasis Springs that evening, they found Peachy and his “twin” waiting for them.

Luigi gave his dad a big hug as a thank you for helping him out while Noemi reintroduced herself to August. With a sly smile Peachy told him “I’m not the only one you’re going to need to thank son” before directing him to talk to his uncle to receive the couples first gift of the evening.

August’s contribution turned out to be a batch of Plentiful Needs potions, to help the pair enjoy the truly epic night to come without fatigue. There were four in total, and August suggested they set the extras aside for some later date when they needed the pick me up to deal with the baby.

Their first romantic stop of the evening was a couple's massage courtesy of the secret mastermind of this Love Day extravaganza, Grandpa Steven, and his twin, Luigi’s Great Uncle Spencer. Death had not dulled the brothers' skills in the slightest and their charges were feeling fantastic in no time.

Noemi opted for a foot massage to soothe feet swollen and sore from carrying their “big boy” with her everywhere while Luigi went with a hand massage to work out the kinks caused by long evenings on the SimScuffle “playing field”.

The couple thanked their caring elders before they moved on towards a horse and carriage just peeking through the trees at the edge of the park.

As they approached, they found Noemi’s parents waiting for them. Luigi was a bit worried after their last encounter with her mother, but Shannon seemed to be in a much better mood this time around. “I’ll be your chauffeur for the evening” she told him as Noemi hugged her dad hello.

Before Luigi and Gilbert helped the mom-to-be into the carriage she went over to greet their faithful steed. “Look at you! Not such a little guy anymore huh?” she murmured to Cheyenne, who had apparently been just a foal when she’d left home for university. Luigi had never seen her around horses prior to this, but it was obvious she had a big soft spot for the massive beasts, or at least this one.

Filing this new knowledge away for later the men got their lady safely settled in her chariot, where she snuggled into Luigi’s open arms with a contented sigh as her mother flicked the reins and started them on their way up into the hills.

By the time they arrived at their destination the sun was setting. They found another glowing ghost waiting for them at the entrance of a small cave.

Great-Grandma Daisy was a loner and didn’t come around to visit the homestead much, but like most of the family ghosts she had always liked Steven.

When she’d signed on to assist with his little plan, she had actually been the one to suggest the location for the outing. It was a good fit for both Luigi’s love of warm climates and Noemi’s anxiety when faced with crowds of unfamiliar sims (a struggle to which she could relate).

She introduced herself to the pair and explained that their final destination was a very special grotto she’d discovered as a young sim hundreds of years ago. After warning them to “be careful making any wishes at the well” she said their journey’s end awaited just inside.

Luigi was the first to step carefully into the dimly lit crystal cavern, reflecting on how lucky he was to have so many kind and supportive sims in his life. This date had far surpassed his expectations already and apparently it was only just beginning!

He had no idea what awaited them on the other side of the cave mouth, but something told him it would be truly magical.

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Today's (10/22/2024) Episode: Making Time For Romance

Skye’s doctor and eye appointments arrived shortly after Luigi’s meetup with his old coach. Both visits had been scheduled after school, leaving his parents with the day to themselves and time to kill.

They started out in the living room, Noemi diving into a novel while Luigi fired up a game of Manic Matchums on the virtual gaming mat he’d received when he got promoted. However, it wasn’t long before he sensed her standing beside him, a pensive look on her face.

As soon as he turned off the program she lamented “The book is good, but I can’t concentrate. I’m worried about Skye. He already struggles so much with his emotions; I don’t know how he’ll react if he gets bad news tonight.”

“I know” Luigi replied “I was pretty distracted myself honestly. I think what we need is to get out of here for awhile, and I know just the place. You ready to take another trip down memory lane?” “Sure” she said “Anything is better than sitting around the house stewing. Lead the way!”

In no time the pair arrived at the gym and spa near their old apartment in the city. “Odd choice to take your mind off your worries” Noemi said, “Seeing as how the last time we were here you were having a pretty bad day.”

“Yes” Luigi agreed “but the lesson from that day was that a certain special lady helped me got over it quickly.” He pulled her into his arms and delivered a long, romantic kiss. “I’m sure she’ll do just as fine a job helping our son deal with whatever he learns tonight.”

Noemi smiled softly and ducked out from under his arms. “I always do my best for you troublesome little Lawbournes. Now we better get a move on so we have some time left after our workout to relax.” She jogged towards the entrance calling out over her shoulder: “Do try to keep up!”

“Arugh!” Luigi cried  a couple hours later, swinging his arm in a controlled arc and smacking the punching bag in front of him with a satisfying thunk. Stripping off his gloves he turned to his wife, “I don’t know about you, but that was just what I needed.”

“Agreed” Noemi said, removing her own gear “Now I’m too tired to think! Come on, let’s sit down and catch our breath, then maybe we can get in a swim or have a little fun in the sauna before heading back” she winked “just like old times…”

“… and you actually came hobbling up to me the next evening before practice with the 5 simoleons!” Noemi laughed “I couldn’t believe you thought I would take your money! That stupid dunking contest was my idea and then I had to watch you limping around campus for a week – I felt terrible!”

“Hey, a bets a bet” Luigi chuckled “and to be fair, you convinced me to give up on the game and relax. It was running around playing amateur firefighter when I got home that really did me in. Then you spent that week, I’ll never forget it, joining me for dinner and bringing me my meal so I didn’t have to stand in line. It was so sweet. By the end of it I was crazier about you than ever!”

“I should have known it was too good to last” Luigi groaned as the flash of cameras interrupted their tete a tete “how do they keep finding us!?”

“I have no idea, it’s not like we were even planning to be out” Noemi replied. “Do you think they’ll cause any trouble at the doctors office tonight?”

“I’ll call ahead and arrange a discreet exam room” he replied, rising to shoo away the paparazzi “But I do think this is our cue to get out of here.”

They were headed towards the exit when a tiny voice called out “Look mom – its Mr. Luigi!” and a small boy came running over “You’re the best scuffle player ever – I want to be just like you one day!” Luigi grinned, much happier to talk with his fans than deal with nosy paparazzi.

“I need a quick shower.” Luigi said as they got home. He spun out of his sweaty clothes, but didn’t quite reach the tub before he was ambushed.

Noemi’s strong arms spun him back into a hungry kiss; the towel she was wearing all that stood between them as he surrendered to her embrace.

“I love the way you think” he whispered, taking his eyes off her just long enough to turn on the water before pulling her into the tub with him.

They emerged, quite satisfied, just in time to hear the back door slam and Skye call out “Mom? Dad? Where are you?” “Well, I guess play time’s over” Luigi said, hollering back “We’ll be right there!” They had a big day ahead of them, and that morning had been a great start.

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Today's (1/21/2025) Episode: Being Brave

“Is it too late to change my mind?” Luigi asked as the teleporter deposited him and his biggest supporter outside Magnolia Medical Center.

“Yes.” Noemi replied matter-of-factly, kissing him softly “you’re going to be fine. You finally agreed to this because you trust Dr. Fish and look how well she did for Skye. His wrist healed perfectly! As long as he follows through with his physical therapy it will be like it was never broken.”

“You’re right, as usual” her husband sighed, nervously taking her hand and heading towards the check-in desk “Let’s go get this over with.”

“Congratulations Mr. Lawbourne,” Dr. Fish said a couple hours later in the recovery room “you made it through your first operation.”  When Luigi just smiled dumbly at her she turned to his wife “He’s still a bit loopy, but everything went smoothly. Given his age and multiple co-morbidities, I do want to watch him closely, so I’d like you to schedule a follow-up with me at the clinic next week.”

“At home” she continued “be extra careful to watch for signs of infection. The nurse will give you paperwork on what to expect. He’s going to feel worse before he feels better; you’ll want to keep an eye on him and make sure he takes it really easy for awhile.

“Oh, don’t worry” Noemi told her “I let him out of my sight once, I won’t be making the same mistake again.”

Luigi was staring intently at his spouse with a particularly hungry look she recognized from long association. “Don’t let him try to stand up until he’s a bit more clear-headed” the doctor warned, wishing the couple luck as she left the room.

“Hey there” Noemi smiled, leaning in close. “How you feeling sweetie?”

“Hi!” he chirped, slurring his words a bit. “I’m feelin … great!” His eyes drowsily traced her outline. “You’re pretty! Waz your name? Mines… Lu… igi.”

“I know.” she chuckled. “We’ve met before.” At his look of complete bewilderment, she added: “I’m Noemi, your wife!”

Luigi’s jaw dropped, eyes going wide, and Noemi had to cover her mouth to stifle her laughter “Oh… my… Grim! We’re married!?” She nodded, no longer trusting herself to speak as he went on slowly but with determination. “Tha’s A-MAZ-ING. I’m so lucky. Ya wanna make out?”

He puckered his lips and tried to sit up. Noemi quickly grasped his bandaged right arm so he wouldn’t stress it, pushing him gently back. “I’d love to” she whispered, kissing him once before pulling away. “But right now you need to rest. You just had surgery.” she gestured downwards “See?”

 “Oooh!” he responded, turning his hand this way and that “That… sucks! At least…” he smiled again “Itz green. Tha’s my favorite color.”

“I know.” she chuckled, gently stroking his hair as he nodded off again mid-pucker. “I guess the teleporter back home can wait for us a bit longer.”

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Today's (1/20/2025) Episode: Celebrating Success

Skye’s new relationship status wasn’t the only thing that gave xem cause to celebrate over the next few days.

Having finally begun taking advantage of the accommodation to use xir laptop for lessons while xir wrist healed, xir grades continued to improve. 

To celebrate Luigi and Noemi took a group of teens to the aquarium for an evening of fun which Skye, of course, documented for his Uncle’s blog.

That particular journalistic “side hustle” was working out well for both Skye and xir uncle.

“Your star is on the rise my friend” Cullen told xem one evening as they settled down together to sample the offerings at the new Boba Tea shop that had just opened in San Sequoia “Your fresh perspective is really resonating with younger sims. I’d been fighting a dip in traffic since scaling back, but since you started posting your reviews our viewership has increased 15%. I can’t tell you how much I appreciate your help.”

Skye basked in the unexpected praise “That’s awesome! It's been a lot of fun. I’m glad we worked out that “photo blog” format. I don’t mind writing a bit of copy to flesh it all out, but I much prefer telling the story in pictures.”

“You’re welcome.” Cullen smiled “You certainly don’t seem to be the only one who appreciates it!”

Skye’s increased fame in the public eye led to an exciting opportunity back at Copperdale.

One evening before xe and Gretchen headed out to cover the Science Fair, the newspaper’s faculty advisor, Mr. Haas, asked Skye if xe would be willing  take over as Editor in Chief for the second half of the school year. “Demetrius is planning to graduate early, and you’d do well as our student leader.”

After a moment of shock, Skye grinned from ear to ear. “Thank you so much! I won’t let you down, although I’m not sure how to get started.”

“Well for now, just go cover the fair as you planned.” Mr. Haas chuckled “Later this week I’ll have you sit down with Demetrius and go over everything. I look forward to seeing what new ideas you have to make our little paper even better.”

Of course, Skye being Skye, xir elation quickly morphed into anxiety.

“How’s my superstar doing this morning?” Noemi asked as she came to join the rest of her family for breakfast.

 “Fine, I guess” Skye sighed “I have to start focusing on finals if I want to ace my exams, but Uncle Cullen needs me to cover the opening of this new ice cream parlor for him, and Mr. Haas is counting on me to collect and layout the articles for next week’s edition.”

“Not to mention” xe continued “I’m getting my cast off soon, which is great, but then I’ll have to start making time for physical therapy. Its all so important and I know I’m so lucky, its not fair of me to complain. I could tell Gretchen was disappointed that I got made editor instead of her…”

Before xe could keep spiraling Noemi cut in “just because you’re lucky to have so many great opportunities doesn’t mean its not OK to feel a little overwhelmed. Your dad and I both know how it is to want to do it all and do it well – if becoming lead programmer for the Watcher Tales franchise taught me anything its that I’m just as much a perfectionist as your father. In that area, you take after both of us.”

“My best advice is to take it one day at a time and don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it.” she continued “I’m sure Uncle Cullen will understand if you want to cut back on reviews a little to focus on your exams and your therapy, for example. He knows that your health and education come first.”

Skye wasn’t totally convinced but xe nodded and thanked xir mother for her advice. “Anytime” she replied “Now… how about we start by me helping you with your newspaper planning? I can organize with the best of them, and it will be fun to work on the layout.”

 “Yes please” Skye said with relief. The brief trouble between them over Elyse hadn’t changed how much xe looked up to xir mother, and with her support xe felt that xir success was all but guaranteed!

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Today's (1/17/2025) Episode: Celebrating Love

Skye was still thinking about love and marriage a couple days later when the island teens got together at Elyse’s place for a study session.

“I wonder if I can guess who got “lucky” recently…” Bruce said with a gleam in his eye “That’s right, ME! The things Heather can do with her tongue…” he leered “How ‘bout you Skye? Oh wait, I forgot, the Queen of Darkness doesn’t like you to kiss and tell… not that there’s anything TO tell, am I right!?” Elyse frowned as Orson high fived his friend across the table, proclaiming “sick burn!”

Skye’s temper flared when he saw the hurt look on Elyse’s face. “You know Bruce” he spat “sims who feel the need to tell everyone about their “conquests” are usually overcompensating for something... what could you possibly be trying to hide??” Before Bruce could do more than sputter angrily Skye took Elyse’s hand, pulling her to her feet. “Come on, let’s get out of here.”

The sun finished setting as the teens made their way to the end of the pier “thanks for putting Bruce in his place back there” Elyse said as she set Skye’s tripod up so xe could take some pictures “I really don’t understand what everyone’s obsession is with woohoo! What’s the hurry!?”

“I don’t know” Skye shrugged “My parents have always made it sound like a lot of fun… but if you’re not ready that’s OK.”

“Are you sure?” Elyse asked “I mean, if you want to see other people to…”

“No!” Skye said quickly “I mean…” xe hesitated, suddenly shy “I just want to see you, not anyone else. In fact,… Elyse… doyouwannagosteady?” xe blurted out in a nearly incomprehensible rush.

Elyse nodded happily at her little blue bear. “Yes, absolutely.”

Skye grinned from ear to ear, and they shared a tight embrace before enjoying each other’s company for the rest of a peaceful, creative, night.

The next evening Luigi and his own beloved were enjoying the scenery downtown and reminiscing about the couples whose love they’d recently celebrated. “I’m happy for Bonnie and Hunter” Luigi began “but I cannot imagine having a baby at my age…!”

“Agreed” Noemi laughed “The potion of youth you gave them will really help them keep up with the little tykes. Of course,” she continued “I’ll miss Skye when xe goes away to university but I’m SO ready to have more time to enjoy things like this with you.” she gestured to the nightlife around them.

“Speaking of our kiddo” Luigi smiled “xe’s not doing to bad for xemself in the love department lately… what with xir new girlfriend and all.”

“I told you that was coming” Noemi sighed “I’m not thrilled but what can we do?” Her husband shrugged and pulled her into a hug. “Nothing but be there to support xem, no matter what happens. Although I suppose showing them what a healthy and loving relationship looks like can’t hurt.”

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Today's (1/16/2025) Episode: Happily Ever After

The next day Skye took xir colorful new cast and xir favorite girl along on a family trip to Moonwood for the first of two very special weddings.

“I never thought I’d be this glad to have so many extra satisfaction points” Luigi said as he arrived at The Collective with his own favorite girl on his arm.

“Agreed.” Noemi snuggled in close “I’m sure they will both appreciate your generosity.” Just behind them Elyse told Skye “Thanks for inviting me. Weddings are a bit of a bore, but the afterparty is always a blast. You ARE going to dance with me… right?”

“Sure” Skye grinned “If you’ll sing a karaoke duet with me.” Elyse’s answering smile told xem the deal was struck as the happy couples headed inside.

"Thanks for agreeing to stand as my sim of honor." Hunter said to his cousin as they prepared to head out to the yard where the venerable Lily waited to join him and his fiancée in matrimony. “I know it was last minute, but we both wanted to get married before the baby arrived.”

“Don’t get me wrong, I love Courtney and can’t wait to be her husband. It just feels wrong that not wanting to start a family at my age caused my divorce, yet here I am with an unplanned for bundle of joy setting the timetable for my second marriage. I guess that's the downside of all those years being married to a servo, I apparently never learned how to properly use protection!" he chuckled dryly. 

Luigi gave his friends' arm a gentle squeeze. “Hey, sometimes life just has a way of happening. If birth control was foolproof that blue haired kid of mine certainly wouldn't exist!  You’ll be a great dad, and to give you more time with your new family… well here, you can take this now if you like.”

The second wedding was a more formal affair for Luigi’s old college pal Bonnie at the chapel in Tartosa. 

"Luigi, my man, glad you could make it!" The widow greeted her old friend warmly as everyone gathered in the large reception hall after dinner.

"I wouldn’t have missed it for the world" he responded, wrapping her in a big hug. "Nice to see you again too Amir" he turned towards Bonnie's new spouse "I guess yours and the missus little secret is out of the bag huh?"  

Amir nodded, placing a hand on their bulbous belly. "Hey, I'm not getting any younger" Bonnie joked before they could speak, placing her own hand over theirs “We had to get a move on! Don’t they look adorable? I may just want to have a full house so I can keep them like this forever." With the topic of her new happily ever after as an introduction Luigi made sure to encourage her to accept the same life extending gift he’d given Hunter.

As xir parents celebrated on the dance floor with the other married couples, Skye and Elyse were poking around the recently used wedding chapel. 

"Do you ever think about getting married?" xe asked her. “Of course," she smiled "though I'd prefer to do it when I'm much younger than them!“

Skye nodded “Even for old folks, they looked so beautiful and happy up there. I'm glad Aunt Bonnie let me setup my tripod to get some photos for her. I think it’s so cool that her spouse is having their baby. They looked so striking in that suit, glowing with life and energy."

Rather than responding Elyse changed the subject “Let’s go, I'm bored, and I promised you a karaoke duet before cake!" 

Skye took one last look at the alter as they headed back towards the sounds of the party in progress; the surprisingly clear fantasy of sharing a wedding just like Bonnie’s with Elyse one day bringing a big smile to xir face.

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Today's (12/20/2024) Episode: The Struggle

Skye’s improved mood didn’t last long. As soon as xe got home, xe heard xir parent’s arguing in the living room.

“Luigi, you need to calm down, go back over there, and apologize” Noemi was saying “I’m sure Isra has a good reason for not telling us exactly what Elyse said happened last night.”

“There’s NO good reason to hide what she knows from us!” Luigi raged “HER kid isn’t the one limping around, wearing a cast, and facing his second surgery in as many weeks! I’m not apologizing for ANYTHING.”

“Even if it loses you one, maybe two, of your oldest and dearest friends?” Noemi replied, her voice taking on an air of affected calm, as if she was trying to soothe a skittish wild animal.

“If Isra isn’t willing to be open with us about something this important, then maybe she was never really that good of a friend anyway!” Luigi retorted, storming into the hallway to find Skye sitting on the ottoman just outside his bedroom door.

“Oh, hey kiddo” he said, his glare quickly morphing into a smile that didn’t quite reach his eyes. “I was just about to start dinner. You want to give me a hand? You don’t have to, but I know how much you love it and if you throw something in the pressure cooker you can take a load off and start your homework while it cooks.”

“Sure dad” xe replied, turning and following xir father to the kitchen. Now my parents and Elyse’s are fighting!? Skye thought None of this would be happening if I hadn’t come out. Maybe I don’t need to tell anyone or use new pronouns, maybe just knowing the truth in my heart is enough.

“…well, my notes are a mess and Mr. Haas assigned us this solar system diorama project, I don’t know how I’m going to finish it on my own now” Skye sighed “but I promise I won’t let my grades slip!”

“I believe in you. Now, how did taking pictures of the chess meet go?” Noemi asked xem. “Did Gretchen help you with your camera?”

“Yeah, she was really nice about it” Skye smiled at the memory “and Peter is letting me share his locker, its closer to classes and lunch.”

“That’s great” Noemi said, “if you’re done eating why don’t we setup that project of yours and I’ll give you a hand – how’s that sound?” The joy on xir Mom’s face when she heard about xir friends helping xem out at school made Skye feel great, until xe noticed xir Dad staring darkly at his empty plate.

“Umm, Dad?” Luigi glanced up, called back to the conversation. “Please don’t be mad at Aunt Isra. I don’t want you guys fighting just because my date with Elyse went badly. Its not her fault I fell, really. I was running, that’s why I had the attack. It was stupid.” Skye hung xir head “I’m sorry.”

Luigi seemed to deflate in on himself at Skye’s words “Son, you don’t have anything to be sorry for. I’m going to be honest; your mother and I suspect you’re not telling us everything, but we also respect that everyone has a right to privacy. Just remember that you can tell us anything, OK?”

“OK” Skye agreed, avoiding xir father’s eye. Easy to say. But I don’t think I could bear for them to hate me OR Elyse… I’d rather not risk it yet.

“Good” Luigi continued “Now I guess while you two are working on that project, I’ll go make that apology everyone thinks I owe my ex-girlfriend.”

By the time Skye and Noemi were finished working on xir assignment xe found xemself with yet another new problem to solve.

“You should really wash up before bed stinky butt” Noemi told xem, playfully pinching her nose. Skye rose without protest and made xir way into the bathroom but stopped when xe went to turn on the showerhead and was confronted by the thick blue wrap xe wasn’t going to be able to remove.

“Mom!” xe called out, holding out xir arm and asking, “what do I do about this?” as soon as she popped her head in.

A few minutes later Skye found xemself sitting in the tub, xir left arm covered with a taped-up garbage bag to prevent the bandage from getting wet. “How am I supposed to get clean sitting in the dirt I’m washing off!?” Skye lamented “This sucks!”

Stepping out of the bath a disheartened Skye spun into xir PJs and vented xir frustration about the hardships of the day in a sad social bunny post while xe waited for xir mom to remove the extra wrap from xir arm.

I just wish I didn’t need this stupid cast xe thought. After a day spent dealing with xir injuries xe understood how much more difficult they were going to make everything and xe wanted nothing more than to go to bed and have a good cry.

“Good night sweetheart” Noemi said as Skye made xir way to xir bedroom “I’ll see you tomorrow morning to reprise my role as your makeup artist.”

Skye forced a smile for her as xe passed: “Sounds great, have a good night, Mom.”

Before collapsing into bed Skye took one last look at social bunny and stared in shock at the flurry of well wishes their unhappy post from a few minutes before had already garnered. The tears they began to cry then weren’t the sad, frustrated ones they’d been prepared to shed. Instead, they were overcome by emotion seeing how much their friends and family cared about them.

As xe drifted off to sleep Skye felt much better knowing that as hard as things felt just then, at least xe wasn’t facing them alone.

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Today's (12/19/2024) Episode: Friendly Support

At the end of a long school day avoiding Elyse and scrawling barely legible notes with xir right hand, Skye heaved a great sigh and closed xir notebook.

“Could you help me set up my tripod for the chess club tournament?” xe asked Gretchen as they left their last class together.

“Sure thing kid. A good reporter takes care of her cameraman. Let me know if I can help with anything.”

“I don’t suppose you have a pocket teleporter?” xe groaned, xir ankle protesting mightily as they began climbing the staircase to the chess lab. “Why did they have to hold this thing on the second floor!?”

Skye wasn’t thrilled at being stuck in one spot to take xir photos, but approached it as an artistic challenge and was eventually pleased with the results.

“Congrats!” he said to his friend as the tournament wrapped up with Greyson in second place. “Let me get a picture of you with your ribbon.”

 “Sure!” the happy champion struck a smiling pose for the camera, proud that his victory would be immortalized. “My folks will want a copy of that!”

Walking to the computer lab with Gretchen to start reviewing xir photos while she worked on her article, Skye stopped dead in the doorway when xe found Elyse already there crafting her poem for that week’s edition.

“Everything OK kid?” Gretchen asked, following xir gaze “You and your girl have a falling out?”

Skye nodded “I was going to ask her to prom, but it didn’t work out. I’m not sure we’re even friends anymore.”

“Well, we could just sit over there.” Gretchen said, indicating a spot on the far side of the room, well away from Elyse.

When Elyse noticed the new arrivals, she stared longingly at Skye, but he never turned around, deep in a conversation with Gretchen about their chess article. She finally turned her attention back to her screen. “Its my own fault; I wasn’t kind enough to… xem” she thought, fighting back tears.

Clearly, she wasn’t going to be able to talk to Skye at school. “I’ll give xem some space and come up with something that’s just as amazing as our date was before I messed it all up.” she decided. “Then xe will know I mean it when I say I’m sorry!”

“…and that’s another one done!” Gretchen grinned “Good job kid, for someone working with one arm you took some great shots – I’m impressed!”

“Thanks” Skye blushed “I love photography.”

“Well…” Gretchen said, suddenly shy “If you like taking photos so much, and you don’t have a date for the prom, why don’t we go together? Just as friends of course.” she added quickly “I’ll move your tripod around for you, interview our esteemed Royalty and Jester once they’re announced… what do you say?”

Skye shook xir head “That’s really nice of you, but I don’t want to go to prom and photograph everyone else having fun when it hurts to even walk very far, let alone dance” xe frowned “I’m sorry.”

“Nothing to be sorry about” Gretchen forced a smile to hide her disappointment “I get it, that could be a real drag for you. Anyway, let’s pack it in and head home. I know we both have a mountain of homework and finals to study for!”

Skye nodded, stowing xir camera in xir inventory and rising to follow her back downstairs. It had been a long, stressful day but xe was grateful to have friends like Gretchen to make it all just a little bit easier to bear.

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