Chapter 69-- Decisions, Decisions, Decisions
We find Carl and Evie relaxing in the hot tub after a hard day at work for both of them.
Especially Carl, as he isn't making much progress at all in saving any sims.
But he's shaking it off and enjoying himself as Evie soaks beside him.
Until Evie says: "I have to tell them Carl. My boss wants an answer soon. But it will break their hearts if we don't go with them to the next town! How can I make this decision? Break my family's hearts or give up such a promotion---it could ruin my career!"
Carl *confidently* "They'll understand Evie. Your family has always had to make tough decisions, difficult choices. You've told me about some of them before. They love you and they will accept whatever choice you make. But I don't think they would accept you giving up your dream, for them especially. But I know you'll find a way to tell them---you're too much a Frio to back away from a difficult decision. And you're too Good to make the wrong one!"
Evie *trying to smile* "That does make me feel a bit better Carl! Maybe if I talk it over with Grandma Sasha, it will help me to decide."
Carl *knowingly* "I think you already have Evie. It's just telling them your decision that's making your heart ache."
Evie *gulping back a sob* "You know me too well Carl. Let's just soak a bit longer so they don't see that I'm upset."
Carl *thinking* They don't have to see her to know that---they're all so close, they'll just know something's up with their dear Evie. But I will stick by her in her choice, even if we go on our own. It's the only thing I can do.*
The next day Carl surveys yet another empty beach! And after his last ordeal with Raven, kind of glad for the emptiness.
Unfortunately the start of his lifeguard career has been pretty down-heartening for him, starting in the fall season, and going through winter. They are short seasons here in Paradise, but no one goes swimming! He's seriously considering changing both is LTW and his career. Especially if the new town has regular seasons---it would take him a lot longer than his lifespan to save 50 sims!
And Evie's decision is weighing on him too.
They both have to make some tough choices soon.
But on Spooky Day it warms up enough for the Frio males to go on a fishing trip!
Shawn's Angler trait has been having him itching to go fishing and Logan decides it would be a great way for all the guys to spend the day.
They all catch a few fish and gain some fishing skill points as Carl chats about his and Janeva's upcoming wedding.
He doesn't mention that it may happen a lot sooner than they think if they all want to attend.
No need to introduce that subject on such a beautiful day!
And he flicks the thought aside himself and just enjoys the warm breeze and the companionship of the guys.
Since the nights a bit warmer, Logan and Sasha enjoy each others company and gaze at the stars.
But they both have rather serious thoughts on their minds.
"I wish she would tell us what's wrong!" they both finally whisper at the same time.
With a laugh Logan says, "We always did read each others minds!"
Sasha chuckles but then says seriously, "I don't want to push her but it has to be something serious, something about moving to the next town, I think. Evie's always been so open and honest with us. Remember how she asked if her cake was organic at her child birthday?! I was frantic trying to decide as she calmly ate her cake anyway! She's so much like me in so many ways Logan. I worry about her in her job and all. She's picked a good man in Carl. He's supporting her in whatever she's going through without spilling the beans to us. He probably feels he would be betraying her if he did that---and she would probably think so too. But time is running short. It's almost the twins YA birthdays and the clock is ticking for Paradise."
Logan: *sighing* "I was hoping I could get Carl to open up a bit while we were fishing, but Crewe and Shawn stayed close by so I couldn't say anything. If he'd asked for my advice or Crewe's, we could have probably helped. But maybe not. Each one of us has had to make tough choices Sash---you know that better than most. So this could be something that Evie has to decide on her own."
Sasha: "Probably, but it hurts watching her struggle so much and not being able to fix it! You know I always want to fit it Logan. It's who I am."
Logan: "Well, we can only help if she comes to us. Until then we just have to wait."
Sasha: "Something else I've gotten very good at over the years!"
And a few days later, Carl approaches Crewe and asks for Janeva's hand!
Crewe gives his blessing but in his endearing socially awkward way asks: "What would you have done if I'd said no?"
Carl *choking* "Wha..what? Oh, I umm.. I'd have told you I respectfully understood and then told Evie you were against our marriage and left it up to her to win that battle!"
Crewe *nodding his head* "I would never have even got past Wha…Carl! You definitely have a way with people. Then my daughter would have come to me all indignant and I would have had to relent. You had it all figured out and it only took you a few seconds! I can really appreciate someone who's at ease talking to people. You and my daughter both. I gave you my blessing Carl because we all know you are Evie's match. Her soulmate. Take good care of our little girl!"
Carl *nodding affirmatively* "Yes, sir, I will sir."
Crewe *gulping* "That was probably the longest speech I ever made! Oh, and Carl."
Carl: *starting to sweat a bit* "Yes sir?"
Crewe: "Call me Dad! Sir is my Grandpa Adam!"
Carl: *with a nervous laugh of relief* "Thank you si..um, Dad!"
But no worries with these two!
Carly and Desmond have been spending all their free time together, falling deeper in love with each passing day.
I'm not expecting any surprises when they have their birthdays.
And I find JoAnna chatting with Shawn upstairs.
Jo: "Everything going okay Shawn?"
Shawn: "Everything's fine Mom! Well, I did have a question. Something I've been thinking about lately."
Jo: "Oh? Something I could help with?"
Shawn *a little embarrassed* "Well, I was just wondering…how did you and dad know you were the one for each other?"
Jo *nodding* "Ah, girl trouble?"
Shawn: "No, not really. Jennie and I are getting along fine. She's a nice girl. A little odd sometimes, like Grandma Sasha, but real nice. And we like each other a lot but how do you know it's the real thing? A love that will last?"
Jo: "That's not easy to answer. Some people just know and find their soulmates right away. Others muddle along and stumble into them sometimes. *laughing* Like me and your dad! But others, never really find one. It's sad really to have to go on alone like that I would think. But some people just don't click with anyone special."
Shawn: *a little shocked* "You and dad just kind of happened? There wasn't a moment when you both just knew?"
Jo: "Oh, we knew, but your dad was so shy and tongue-tied he could barely speak to me! I had to figure out what he was trying to say all the time through his babbling!"
Shawn: "But Dad's a writer, famous and all. I've read some of his books. They're really good."
Jo: "But writing and talking are two very different things. Your dad's not comfortable in crowds or even speaking to a stranger. And you know how paranoid he gets about the sink!"
Shawn: "I know. He keeps asking me about the one in the upstairs bathroom and then has to go check it himself! But I wasn't really asking about dad."
Jo: "Right. Well, I guess to know if you were really soulmates it's best to ask yourself a question. Would you give up your dreams so that person could realize theirs? If the answer is yes for both of you, then I would say you belong together. Did that help?"
Shawn *pondering* "Yes, Mom, I think it did."
And another important discussion is going on upstairs as well.
Evie: "Grandma Sasha, could I talk with you about something important?"
Sasha: "Of course Evie! I've been waiting for you to unburden yourself for days!"
Evie *sighing* "I was trying to be strong and not show the family I was upset. It's my problem really."
Sasha *firmly* "Spill it girl! No more going it alone. A burden is lessened when shared."
Evie *resigned* "I've been under consideration for a promotion at work. A sting operation in a little obscure town…"
Sasha *nodding with understanding* "A town you would have to relocate to…with or without the rest of the family?!"
Evie: "Yes. And if I pass it up.."
Sasha: "It will be a long time before you're considered for promotion again as it will be on your record!"
Evie "Exactly! So you see it's either take the promotion and move without the family or go with the family and destroy my career!"
Sasha *giving her a look* "I don't think you were listening to me earlier! I said, "A town you would have to relocate to…WITH or without the rest of the family?! Why isn't that an option? Having the whole family go there?"
Evie *shocked* "But I can't ask them all to do that for me! That would be so selfish!"
Sasha *sternly* "More selfish than thinking the family that loves you would dessert you?!"
Evie *even more shocked* "But I was thinking of them…."
Sasha: "You were thinking like a law enforcement officer and a very good one if I do say so myself. It's your career, your promotion, your job to keep people safe. Especially your family! So…better to leave them behind and not let them have the choice!"
Evie *light dawning* "Oh, I WAS doing that! I didn't even realize it until you said it so plainly."
Sasha: "And now that you realize it, speak with your father. He will take your position into consideration and share the burden Evie! It's what we do as your family. And don't ever forget that again!"
Evie *relieved and mortified* "I won't Grandma! How could I have been so blind! I'll talk to dad soon. It's not just my decision----it's one we all can make, together as a family! Thank you Grandma. I'm so glad you agreed to stay until after the twins birthdays! I know we'll all miss you but….I feel we have a special connection me and you! I'll love you always Grandma and try to do my best to be as Good as you!"
Sasha *wiping away a tear* "Oh, Evie. We are so much alike. You've got my hair color and a lot of my personality. But you've got some unique qualities that make you special. Never forget that and trust in yourself as well as your family! I love you dear Evie! And I'll miss you more than you can know---but we'll keep in touch! Letters, e-mail, phone calls. You name it, I'll be pestering you all the time!"
Evie: "I know you will Grandma and I will be looking forward to each and every time I hear from you!"
Then the time they had all been waiting for arrives!
The twins YA birthdays!
But it looks like Desmond it going to be the first up!
Dee: "You sure Des? You want your birthday here?"
Desmond: "I'm sure. I love Carly and I'm planning on being part of this family so what better way to start that than having my birthday here?"
Dee: "I'm glad you feel that way. So get to blowing out those candles young man!"
So he takes a deep breathe, blows out the candles, and after the sparkles disappear a handsome young man stands before us!
Dee: "Wow, Des, you grew up very nicely! And Carly seems super excited with your oh so handsome self!"
Desmond: "I feel great! And this outfit isn't bad either! Very debonair! But I don't want to hog the whole show. Carly and Shawn still need to have their cakes."
So we all head off to the kitchen for the next up---Carly.
She stands in front of her cake amidst all the cheering and blows out her candles.
And promptly loses her long hair!
But she doesn't wait to eat her own cake as she yells, "You go now Shawn, we can do make-overs and bios later!"
Shawn, ever eager to please his older twin, heads to his cake.
And after the sparkles disappear…
His hair's grown wild and his clothes should be burned!
Okay they're not that bad---but compared to Dashing Desmond, he looks like a dud!
First thing he does after cake is chat with Jennie.
And she doesn't seem to mind his hair or his clothes.
But Carly decides she's waited long enough for her make-over.
She picks out a flattering long hair style and this for her formal outfit.
Introducing Carly Frio---young adult fairy
LTW: One Sim Band
Traits: Neurotic, Virtuoso, Brave, Dramatic, and Loves the Cold
Fav's: Roots, Goopy Carbonara, and Orange
BF: Desmond Torres
And this for her athletic outfit.
And then she corners her father and begs him to call a family meeting and reveal the new heir and town.
Carly: "Please, dad, I can't stand the suspense!"
Crewe: "It's too soon. There are a few more details to be worked out yet, sweetheart. And we need to have the entire family that's moving living here with us. But very soon, I promise. I know it's hard to wait but just give it a little more time."
Carly *disappointed* "Okay dad, I understand. It's just so exciting and scary all at the same time!"
Crewe: "Well, that's probably your Neurotic trait rearing it's ugly head---believe me I understand that well enough. But first things first, go spend some time with your Desmond and get some things settled. That will give you something to focus on besides worrying about moving and heirship."
Carly *awestruck* "Oh, Des---didn't he grow up dreamy daddy?!"
Crewe: *gulps* "He's a nice enough boy, er..young man. Go spend some time with him---but not too much, remember you're still my baby girl!"
Carly *smiling* "Awe, I'll always be your baby girl daddy, even when I'm 200!"
And she rushes off to find Des.
After all the excitement and crowd, Crewe needs some alone time but finds his mother on the upstairs balcony.
Crewe asks: "What's on your mind Mom? I saw that look you gave me during the birthdays."
Sasha: *chuckling* "Can't put anything over on you now can I? But I won't keep you in suspense. Evie's got a tough decision to make and I told her to discuss it with you. Share the burden so to speak. Well, after I pointed out the error of her ways!"
Crewe: "I don't doubt that Mom! You always knew how to cut to the chase and we didn't get away with much."
Sasha: *smirking* "Only what I allowed you to get away with---sometimes kid's need to find their own direction, let their own spirit grow---it's what makes you an adult. But sometimes you need to discuss matters with someone else, with the family and share the decision. This journey is all about compromise, doing what's best for all, not just for one. I know you'll let Evie speak her piece and then weigh all the factors before making any decisions. But I just wanted you to know that I'm aware of what's going on and if YOU need someone to discuss it with your father and I will be here for you. Across town, but still available."
Crewe: "So you guys have made your choice? Across town? With Sam or Tasha?"
Sasha: "We've decided to get our own place---well, if the family will allow us to use the family funds to buy a place!"
Crewe: "Anything you want Mom! You and dad have done so much for all of us, it's the least we can do to see you happily settled in a place. I'm glad you're going to be close to the others here. I'll miss them all. But we'll keep in touch, I promise."
Sasha: "You can bet on that boy! I won't lose track of any of my family!"
Crewe heads downstairs for some alone time and to catch up on his book but is soon joined by Evie.
Evie: "Don't put the book down dad. This will be easier if you're not looking at me. I'm sure Grandma told you I was coming to talk to you, but please don't say anything until I get through it all. It's really quite simple to tell. I'm up for a promotion at work---but it requires relocating to a small town. I thought it would be best for Carl and I to go on our own and not move with the family. But Grandma pointed out that there is another option. The family could choose to move with us despite the fact that I think they would be safer not to. So now it's out there! You know what's been bothering me for days."
Silence.
Evie: "Um, you can say something NOW, Dad!"
Crewe: "Oh, okay." *clearing his throat* "I'll add that information to everything else under consideration Evie. How long before you have to decide?"
Evie: "Within the next few days. Captain said the operation is due to be set up by next week so I have to let them know so they can get the paperwork going for the transfer."
Crewe: "I'm glad you told us Evie. I'll do some checking and you try not to worry sweetheart. Your family's got your back and your sister and I do enough worrying for the whole family!"
Evie *smiling just a bit* "That you do Dad. That you do. And thanks for listening so calmly, I was worried you'd get all upset."
Crewe: "Your sister is the dramatic one in the family, I just keep checking the sink! Now off to bed with you young lady, we have some busy days ahead."
And before Sasha can head on in the house, Logan joins her on the balcony.
Sasha: *laughing* "Popular place tonight!"
Logan: "I made a decision on a house and everything's all set Sash. It's best if we leave with most of the family asleep. We've said our goodbyes and they'll be visiting us at the new place. Crewe said he'd stop by to check it out and give us a few details of the move, heir couple and all that. Apparently some of that isn't worked out yet. Cutting it close. But Frios like living on the edge!"
Sasha: "That we do!"
Logan: "I think you'll really like the new place Sash. It's 2 floors, 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, and plenty of space for the grandkids to visit and sleep over!"
Sasha: *he's always thinking of me* "It sounds perfect! You always know what makes me happy Logan. Let's go home!"
And Logan and Sasha leave the family home for one of their own for the first time in their lives.
Early the next morning, Jo chats with a guest.
Jo: "I'm so glad you could make it over on such short notice Mia. We missed you at the party last night."
Mia: "I was sad to miss it, but I had stayed so long last time, I needed the extra hydration time."
Jo: "Oh, I never thought of that! Is it okay for you to be here now?"
Mia: "Yes, I am fine now. I should be okay for at least a couple of days."
Jo: "You have to hydrate in water every couple of days?! I don't remember Salty having to do that."
Mia: "It's pretty common for mersims to have to stay hydrated, but not just in any water, salt water. Or else we start to loose our mersim abilities and become 'normal' sims. That's how they eradicated our species so many years ago. They captured us and kept us caged on land until we were no longer mersims. Many were so broken hearted, their spirits so broken, they no longer wished to live and simply threw themselves into the sea!"
Jo *gulping* "This is serious Mia! Now I know why Salty loves their house by the sea so much, so he has access to salt water! I need to talk to Salty and see if there is anything we can do to help you. You shouldn't have to live in such danger every couple of days." *thinking* And what if no salt water was available?! Poor Mia, I know she couldn't bear it if she lost her mergenes!*
And a very thoughtful Shawn wakes up early having tossed and turned most of the night.
With one look in the mirror he decides a makeover is a must! He can't even see through all his hair!
He chooses a much more suitable short hair style and comfortable every day clothes in his favorite color gray.
Shawn *his good sense of humor coming to the fore* Well, I look the part of a starving artist or fisherman at least!*
Shawn Frio---young adult fairy
LTW: Master of the Arts
Traits: Artistic, Genius, Light Sleeper, Angler, and Good Sense of Humor
GF: Jennie Kahale
And as he makes his way downstairs and stands in the foyer, he's shocked to see the two sims that have been on his mind all night!
Jennie's waking up in her sleeping bag and Mia is heading into the living room!
His mind is a jumble! Jennie said goodbye last night but she's still here!
And Mia said she couldn't make it to their birthday party but it's not even light out and she's here in the house!
What a start to the day! He's so muddled he can't think straight.
Wait----think straight! He's a Genius for goodness sake---he just needs to focus and take this logically.
He straightens his shoulders as if going into battle and realizes it may be just that!
A battle to come to the biggest decision of his young life!
So many decisions in this chapter and they all come to a head in the next one!
Who will Shawn choose? And if he chooses Mia, is it safe for her to leave Paradise?
Will Evie choose the promotion or go with her family to the next town?
Or was Sasha right to think the family would choose the town Evie will be in, to keep them altogether?
Find out in Chapter 70-- Final Choices in Paradise
Coming soon.
