Carl and Pam's The Sims Community
The Sims 4 => Sims 4 - Stories and Member-Created Challenges => Sims 4 Stories Graveyard => Topic started by: FrancescaFiori on June 22, 2015, 12:39:43 PM
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A little preamble: I was playing a legacy, and a few generations in, when the town had largely emptied out, I was checking for new neighbors in Map View. I found that the game had somehow moved the Grim Reaper into Cypress Terrace. Thinking this was too good an opportunity to resist, I selected his household (which was labeled "Gamboa") to play, and messed around with him for a few Sim days. That was going to be the end of it, but then my husband kept coming home from work and asking me how Mr. Gamboa was doing, and I started to think maybe there was a story there.
So here's the story:
Chapter 1: The House at Cypress Terrace
He had always liked the house at Cypress Terrace. He looked forward to visiting it more than any other house in Willow Creek, though naturally none of its residents looked forward to his visits. So when the time came to reap the last of the house's occupants, he just stayed. He couldn't say exactly why he chose that particular moment, or that particular house, except that he knew that the time had come for a change, and if anyone had a talent for knowing when the time had come, it was him.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Mr%20Gamboa_zpsksn53bbv.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Mr%20Gamboa_zpsksn53bbv.jpg.html)
The family name attached to the house at that time was Gamboa, and having no name himself to speak of, he adopted it as his own. Of course, he had been known by many names in his time, but as he was hoping to establish himself as a valued member of the community Mr. Gamboa seemed more suitably non-threatening than any of them.
In the interests of increasing his likability, he thought perhaps a change of wardrobe was in order, but he found all of the many dressers and mirrors in his new abode to be equally inaccessible to him. He was, however, able to change into a predetermined set of outfits, though he wasn't sure how well they suited him.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Workout%20Clothes_zps9n4gp0wk.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Workout%20Clothes_zps9n4gp0wk.jpg.html)
Never mind, he told himself. He would simply have to get by on the strength of his personality. Upon intense self-examination, however, he found he didn't seem to posses much of a personality at all. His only trait to speak of was his High Metabolism, which was rather absurdly useless, given the fact that he had no need to eat. He also had no need to sleep, or bathe, or use the toilet. All rather convenient, but it did leave him with a lot of time on his hands.
His only clue as to how to fill the coming hours was his need for fun and social interaction, and his aspiration to become a Bodybuilder, so he headed to the local gym.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Lifting%20Weights_zpsbgrqa2wy.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Lifting%20Weights_zpsbgrqa2wy.jpg.html)
He was delighted to find that he earned points from making progress toward his goal. With those points, he found it was possible to buy rewards, including personality traits. This, he thought, was the key to achieving his desires. If he possessed no personality naturally, he would just have to buy one.
Working out left him fatigued fairly quickly, however, so he headed home to test out one of his house's many bathtubs, and plan his next steps.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Bath_zpssfdzljfc.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Bath_zpssfdzljfc.jpg.html)
While splashing in the bubbles, it occurred to him that he could select another aspiration to work on concurrently with bodybuilding while he waited for his body to recover.
Cypress Terrace boasted a lovely garden space with a number of planter boxes just waiting to be filled, and given his already well-known love of flowers, the Gardening aspiration seemed to be a natural choice.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Starting%20the%20Garden_zpsx7wbuuim.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Starting%20the%20Garden_zpsx7wbuuim.jpg.html)
He thought with pleasure as he tended his new garden how much he had always enjoyed Death Flowers, and if he honed his skill enough, he would be able to grow his own, and never again have to depend on others to offer them to him. The thought pleased him immensely.
A less pleasing thought was the anticipation of the bills that would arrive in a few days time. Cypress Terrace was a large house with many expensive furnishings, so he could expect its upkeep to be rather costly. Mr. Gamboa had started out with a bit of cash to get him going, but it would not last forever. He had no need of the beds or bathroom and kitchen appliances in the house, and so he could sell those, but even that would not sustain him in the long term, especially as he didn't seem to be aging at all.
Mr. Gamboa decided he would need to get a job.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Getting%20a%20Job_zpsynrpqi4k.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Getting%20a%20Job_zpsynrpqi4k.jpg.html)
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This is wonderful -- the Grim Reaper buying a personality -- I love it!
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What a great story, playing Grim is too good to resist! Loving Mr Gamboa's new clothes too.
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This is hilarious! I had heard of this Grim Reaper glitch, but never thought of making it into a sotry. Looking forward to reading more about Mr. Gamboa's endeavors. ;D
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Thanks for the replys! I was pretty nervous about posting, so your friendly responses made my day. I'm excited to continue.
Chapter Two: Mr. Gamboa at Work
There were a variety of job opportunities available to him, but in the end Mr. Gamboa decided that Science was the one that appealed to him most.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Inventing_zpsi6f4bnfq.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Inventing_zpsi6f4bnfq.jpg.html)
Though he was a bit miffed that he was not issued a lab coat like the other scientists, he found he enjoyed the job a great deal, especially as it gave him a chance to work on his gardening.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Whistle%20while%20you%20Work_zpsgpf7dxni.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Whistle%20while%20you%20Work_zpsgpf7dxni.jpg.html)
Another perk was the inventions he produced and was allowed to keep for his personal use. Chief among them was the SimRay, which he nicknamed “Scythe 2.0.” It was comforting to again have a tool in his hand that struck fear into the hearts of those around him.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Freeze%20Ray%20LOL_zpsma5opfze.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Freeze%20Ray%20LOL_zpsma5opfze.jpg.html)
His serums were less successful.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Oops_zpsxrtss9q7.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Oops_zpsxrtss9q7.jpg.html)
Nevertheless, he was promoted after his first day at work, and celebrated by splurging a bit on some decorations for the front yard.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Garden%20Gnome_zpswee7obuz.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Garden%20Gnome_zpswee7obuz.jpg.html)
Work also improved Mr. Gamboa's social life. He even managed to become friends with a fellow scientist named Reese, who would stop by after work some days to hang out.
She shared Mr. Gamboa's affinity for cloudgazing . . .
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Cloudgazing%20with%20Reese_zpsb0zmm3pc.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Cloudgazing%20with%20Reese_zpsb0zmm3pc.jpg.html)
. . . and poorly told jokes.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Bad%20Joke_zps8lpycpks.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Bad%20Joke_zps8lpycpks.jpg.html)
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Equally%20Bad%20Joke_zpssuallbuz.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Equally%20Bad%20Joke_zpssuallbuz.jpg.html)
On nights and weekends, when Mr. Gamboa wasn't making scientific breakthroughs, he worked on his aspirations, going for jogs to improve his fitness. . .
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Jogging_zpsyzsv1007.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Jogging_zpsyzsv1007.jpg.html)
Fishing for fertilizer for his garden . . .
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Fish_zpszinchkqx.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Fish_zpszinchkqx.jpg.html)
And planting new and exotic types of flora. (He planted a most peculiar seed out in a newly-cleared area of the garden, but for some reason it chose to sprout in the middle of the kitchen. Once fully grown, it would likely block the microwave completely, but Mr. Gamboa didn't mind.)
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Cowplant%20Bud_zpsgv1bwira.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Cowplant%20Bud_zpsgv1bwira.jpg.html)
He was very busy, but still felt there was something important missing in his life. So, one sunny Saturday, he psyched himself up in the bathroom mirror, and went out looking for love.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Finger%20Guns_zpsd2m7jpte.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Finger%20Guns_zpsd2m7jpte.jpg.html)
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Your writing style is wonderful. It feels like a fairy tale. Maybe it is. Please, don't stop! :)
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Haha, this is great. I agree with Tixxis, your writing style is quite really nice. I can't wait to see Grim – ahem, I mean Mr. Gamboa – try and flirt.
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This is absolutely wonderful. I am very much looking forward to what happens.
I love your writing style. It's strangely introspective and detached at the same time, which is just perfect for this character.
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I couldn't stop reading...more please!
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A great story so far. I'm looking forward to reading more.
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This is fascinating. So different!
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Brilliant, love the name of his simray - "Scythe 2.0" - I had a good chuckle at that. I hope he finds love with a special someone.
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Thanks, all! I wasn't sure how I would like writing a story, but it's been really satisfying so far, and there's a lot more story to tell.
@TheGoat I'm happy the detached style is coming through. Mr. Gamboa is just so deadpan (pardon the pun) in everything he does that it seemed to suit him.
@grimsoul I have to say, with your username and avatar, I am particularly glad to know that you approve. :)
Okay, onward!
Chapter 3: Mr. Gamboa's First and Last Date
Upon arriving at the park in Oasis Springs, Mr. Gamboa nearly lost his nerve. He headed immediately for the restrooms to regroup, and was startled to find them occupied by an oddly-dressed woman. He rallied his nerves and seized the opportunity to introduce himself. He learned that her name was Helena, and because he had recently purchased for himself the Observant trait, he also learned that she was an Evil, Insane, Glutton.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Imagine%20Meeting%20You%20Here_zpseh7tb2bj.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Imagine%20Meeting%20You%20Here_zpseh7tb2bj.jpg.html)
These seemed fitting traits for the partner of a former Reaper of Souls, and he immediately decided to pursue the relationship. He was forced to do so literally, however, by pursuing the lovely Miss Helena across the park after her rather abrupt exit from the restroom.
He arrested her flight by utilizing another of his new traits, Great Storyteller. He then attempted to impress her with his recently improved physique.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Showing%20off%20the%20Guns_zpseqock9fk.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Showing%20off%20the%20Guns_zpseqock9fk.jpg.html)
This seemed to work and, emboldened by her receptiveness, after a few more minutes of polite banter he asked her on a date.
She accepted, and they traveled together to a lounge called the Solar Flare. Mr. Gamboa was relieved to find that not all of Miss Helena's clothing featured paint splatters. He offered her a rose to express his appreciation, and then they proceeded into the lounge to continue the date.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Date%201_zps0jy2c0o4.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Date%201_zps0jy2c0o4.jpg.html)
Date requirements were ticked off one after another, and before long Mr. Gamboa found himself cuddling on the couch with Helena. He felt almost giddy at his success.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Date%202%20-%20Cuddles_zpstkl6zov4.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Date%202%20-%20Cuddles_zpstkl6zov4.jpg.html)
Disaster nearly struck, when an inexplicably angry woman attempted to interrupt their tete a tete, . . .
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Date%203%20-%20Awkward_zpsosn1e4dr.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Date%203%20-%20Awkward_zpsosn1e4dr.jpg.html)
but Mr. Gamboa acted quickly, thwarting her with his Freeze Ray, and the date was completed, earning a gold medal.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Date%204%20-%20Freeze%20Ray%20Moves_zpsontsqwqv.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Date%204%20-%20Freeze%20Ray%20Moves_zpsontsqwqv.jpg.html)
The date had been a success by any measure, but Mr. Gamboa was left with a heavy heart. All date requirements had been completed except one, and whether it was due to lack of gumption or the simple lack of a mouth, he did not know, but he found himself completely incapable of giving Helena a kiss.
Furthermore, though he felt a strong desire to take things to the next level with Helena by asking her to be his girlfriend, he found he lacked the ability to pose the question.
It swiftly became clear that any further avenues of romance were closed to Mr. Gamboa, and that, enjoyable as the afternoon had been, it would never be anything more than an enjoyable afternoon.
With this in mind, Mr. Gamboa thanked Helena for a lovely time, and bid her farewell.
He explained to the snapdragons when he got home that part of life, as he was coming to understand it, was accepting ones own limitations. He was simply not built for love, and that was all right.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/WTF%20Snapdragons_zpshgl7pibq.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/WTF%20Snapdragons_zpshgl7pibq.jpg.html)
He confessed himself a bit disappointed, as exclusion from romance meant procreation was likely out of the question, and he was still curious about that, but for the time being he would content himself with his gardening, and keep himself open to new opportunities.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/First%20Abduction_zpsqaxsysyg.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/First%20Abduction_zpsqaxsysyg.jpg.html)
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Ooh, alien abduction! I would like to see Grimmy get pregnant and try to cope with a baby. ;D
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What a great story! I had no idea it was even possible to play Grim. What fun and how lucky you are! I like his 'improved physique', being a fan of ripped sims myself. ;D And now the chances of a pregnant Grim, just too good to be true.
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Another great chapter. And yes you have my approval. :) There is some family resemblance, I wonder if he's a cousin. ???
I'm looking forward to see what happens with the abduction. Maybe he will be able to carry on the family name after all.
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Just wanted to say thank you again for the comments. I'm really pleased that other people are becoming interested in Mr. Gamboa. :)
Chapter 4: A Friend Lost, And a Friend Gained
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/First%20Abduction%20Wide_zps7ugpib9a.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/First%20Abduction%20Wide_zps7ugpib9a.jpg.html)
Alien abduction was an invigorating experience for Mr. Gamboa. He felt quite refreshed afterward, and ready to face new challenges.
His cow plant became fully-grown and offered a new source of entertainment and companionship. He named it Patches.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Feeding%20Patches_zpsibyed3la.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Feeding%20Patches_zpsibyed3la.jpg.html)
He returned to work on Monday with a new sense of purpose and threw himself back into his inventing.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Buddies_zpsvuk1eajq.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Buddies_zpsvuk1eajq.jpg.html)
Unfortunately, fate was feeling uncooperative that day, and decided to throw an unexpected complication in Mr. Gamboa's path.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/There%20Goes%20Reese_zpsvft5exp5.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/There%20Goes%20Reese_zpsvft5exp5.jpg.html)
In truth, he had been very curious as to what would happen when a death occurred nearby. Would he be called out of retirement? Would the death occur at all? Without a Reaper, would the deceased simply get back up and continue about her day?
It would appear not. Mr. Gamboa watched, fascinated, as his paunchy replacement floated cooly into the laboratory.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Grim%20meet%20Grim_zpsjbrgkos4.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Grim%20meet%20Grim_zpsjbrgkos4.jpg.html)
“Oh, dear,” he thought, “Is that really how I used to look?”
The fallen scientist was none other than Reese and, as she was his only real friend aside from Patches, Mr. Gamboa was sorry to lose her. He hadn't yet grown any death flowers to offer, so he attempted a maneuver he'd seen used by Sims in the past with some success.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/No%20Dice_zpsgjbvyfqe.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/No%20Dice_zpsgjbvyfqe.jpg.html)
Alas, his pleas failed to move the other Reaper. The apparition departed soon afterward, leaving only a large urn where Reese had been. Mr. Gamboa thought it rather depressing to have to spend eternity next to the microscope, so he brought Reese's urn home with him when he left work that day. He placed her on a table in the front hall.
Later that evening, he paid a visit to the gym, and was pleasantly surprised to find his counterpart hard at work on the treadmill. He thought it only fitting that he offer some encouragement.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Grim%20Trains%20Grim_zpss69rohhv.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Grim%20Trains%20Grim_zpss69rohhv.jpg.html)
The two struck up a conversation, and quickly became friends.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Grim%20Hug_zpslfjgbvwe.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Grim%20Hug_zpslfjgbvwe.jpg.html)
When Mr. Gamboa returned home, he fed Patches and then settled in to watch some television. Later on, Reese came out to visit, and the two enjoyed a lively conversation over the evening news.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Nice%20to%20Have%20Company_zpsrbsbbrkw.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Nice%20to%20Have%20Company_zpsrbsbbrkw.jpg.html)
Mr. Gamboa thought how nice it was to have some company around the house, though Patches didn't seem to share his enthusiasm.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Patches%20dislikes%20Reese_zpsmcaiqytk.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Patches%20dislikes%20Reese_zpsmcaiqytk.jpg.html)
It was not long afterward that he completed his Bodybuilder aspiration, in the process gaining enough traits to officially become The Most Interesting Sim in the World. Not bad for someone who had started out so recently with no personality at all.
All in all, he thought while working on his new rocketship, things were progressing delightfully. If it weren't for the strange bit of indigestion suddenly plaguing him, he would have no complaints whatsoever.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Indigestion%202_zpsbearue8s.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Indigestion%202_zpsbearue8s.jpg.html)
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No, no, don't stop now!
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:) @KRae I have to confess that as a reader I find cliffhangers kind of annoying, but when I'm writing the story I think they're hilarious.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
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oh, looks like there might be a new addition to the family coming soon. An alien reaper, might be interesting. :)
Looking forward to the next chapter.
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I was wondering what would happen if someone died. Well done!
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Oh yes, a grimmyboo? How exciting! This story is wonderful, I love the way you write it. I particularly loved the new reaper meeting the former. :-)
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Oh My!!!! An alien-grimboo... *squee* Just way too exciting. ;D It was just so funny seeing Grim Gamboa meeting Grim. As I was reading I was thinking just how bizarre this all is! lol
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Ooh! Retired Grim meeting his replacement was hilarious. And I can't wait to see how the alien-grim will look! :)
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I absolutely love this. Grim as a townie, how lucky you got! I cannot wait cor this grimboo.
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Thanks, guys! I was so excited when he got pregnant. I didn't know if it would be possible given how limited he is in other ways, and how much rarer alien pregnancies have become, but if my pictures are correct it only took two abductions and Bam! Belly sparkles! It's certainly livened up the plot!
Chapter 5: Facing the Truth
Helena came by to help work on the rocket, and suggested to him that perhaps it was something he'd eaten.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Pregnancy%20-%20Rocketship_zpsevwhnlbl.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Pregnancy%20-%20Rocketship_zpsevwhnlbl.jpg.html)
Mr. Gamboa cleared his throat and confessed that it couldn't be that. He didn't experience hunger, and had avoided consuming anything by mouth ever since a rather embarrassing incident with a glass of orange juice on one of his first days at Cypress Terrace.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/So%20Embarassing%20with%20border_zpstwgwxpc9.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/So%20Embarassing%20with%20border_zpstwgwxpc9.jpg.html)
He was still having trouble with serums at work, but his discomfort became so severe that he eventually gave in and tested one of his own vials of Snake Oil. Predictably, it failed to produce the desired effect.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Oops%202_zpsxsya7ami.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Oops%202_zpsxsya7ami.jpg.html)
Grim phoned several times, inviting Mr. Gamboa out for some athletic training, but Mr. Gamboa was loathe to admit that his belly was now twice the size of his capacious friend's, and said preferred to take his exercise at home alone.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Pregnancy%20-%20Belly_zpsxm8yidry.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Pregnancy%20-%20Belly_zpsxm8yidry.jpg.html)
Eventually, he could no longer deny the obvious. There was something in there, and it was going to come out very soon. He invited Helena over again to get her input.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Helena%20Feels%20the%20Baby_zpsbivpxzed.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Helena%20Feels%20the%20Baby_zpsbivpxzed.jpg.html)
“Yup. That's a baby,” she told him. “Are you taking pre-natals? My sister-in-law had two kids and she went on and on about her pre-natal vitamins. I could get you some . . .”
Mr. Gamboa's attention drifted. He briefly considered asking Helena to move in to help care for the coming child. She certainly seemed to know more about it than he did. He remembered her traits, however, and realized that the very things that had attracted him to her were likely to provide a poor example for one so young. He thanked her for her assistance, and ushered her out the door.
Single parenthood would be a challenge, he thought, but perhaps Reese could help with some of the night feedings. He mentally patted himself on the back for not yet selling off the furnishings in the child's bedroom upstairs. He hoped the baby would enjoy the color purple.
He did not have long to wait to find out, as he went into labor that very night.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Indigestion%203_zpsh9l38el7.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Indigestion%203_zpsh9l38el7.jpg.html)
He made his way to the hospital alone, and approached the front desk.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Hospital%20Check-In_zpsrtdxcwiz.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Hospital%20Check-In_zpsrtdxcwiz.jpg.html)
The receptionist's eyes filled with horror, then confusion, then shock. Mr. Gamboa found himself momentarily at a loss for words to explain his situation. The receptionist recovered enough to point down the hall in the direction of the labor and delivery ward, and Mr. Gamboa nodded gratefully, then politely declined the offer of a hospital gown, and proceeded in the direction she had indicated.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Modesty%20is%20Key_zps8uymqlwl.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Modesty%20is%20Key_zps8uymqlwl.jpg.html)
The contraption used by the hospital for extracting infants was reassuringly scientific and did much to preserve the patient's modesty. Mr. Gamboa was grateful, at least, for this. A few squirts of lubricant and flashes of the laser later he heard the doctor exclaim, “It's a girl!”
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Macaria%20is%20Born_zpscbfkew3i.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Macaria%20is%20Born_zpscbfkew3i.jpg.html)
“Does she . . . ahem . . . does she have a head?” Mr. Gamboa stammered anxiously.
“What?” asked the doctor. “Of course she does. Why on earth-?”
“Oh, thank goodness,” sighed Mr. Gamboa. “She takes after her mother.”
Much relieved, he extracted himself from the birthing apparatus and approached the bassinet to take his daughter in his arms for the first time.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/First%20Cuddles_zpscjpkqjcx.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/First%20Cuddles_zpscjpkqjcx.jpg.html)
“May I have a name for the birth certificate?” asked the doctor.
“Yes,” said Mr. Gamboa proudly. He had been searching Simpedia earlier in the day and was prepared for this question. “Her name is Macaria. Macaria Gamboa.”
“Very nice,” said the doctor. “Now would you like me to send in the lactation consultant? I assume you'll be breastfeeding.”
Mr. Gamboa was not prepared for that question.
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ROFL - no, I bet he wasn't prepared for that question.
I didn't see it coming either. Brilliant!
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"...does she have a head?" Too funny! I love this story.
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LOL A very funny update. *giggle* Priceless!
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That picture of a very pregnant Mr Gamboa having his tummy felt cracked me up! I assume he won't be breastfeeding haha. 😁
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does she have a head?
Oh, thank goodness,She takes after her mother.
Such laughter!
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:o Pregant Grim, how very fun. I like the daughters name, had to look it up but I think it suits her.
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I like the daughters name, had to look it up but I think it suits her.
Wikipedia:
In the Heracleidae of Euripides, Macaria ("she who is blessed") is a daughter of Heracles.
Even after Heracles's death, King Eurystheus pursues his lifelong vendetta against the hero by hunting down his children.
Macaria flees with her siblings and her father's old friend Iolaus to Athens, where they are received by Demophon, the king. Arriving at the gates of Athens with his army, Eurystheus gives Demophon an ultimatum, threatening war upon Athens unless Demophon surrenders Heracles's children. When Demophon refuses and begins to prepare for war, an oracle informs him that Athens will be victorious only if a noble maiden is sacrificed to Persephone.
Upon hearing this, Macaria sees that her only choice is immediate death on the altar or eventual death at the hands of Eurystheus. Since in neither case will she be granted a normal, happy life, she offers herself as the victim to save the welcoming city and its inhabitants, declining a lottery that would put other girls at risk.
Oooh!
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Ooh, I do like the name. :o Hilarious update as always!
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Oh, sheesh, way to go with ending the part that way. Had me giggling throughout.
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Very good. I got a good laugh from that part. :)
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I can just imagine the expression on his non-existent face.
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0.0 A pregnant Grim!?!?! Oh my! That is spectacular! A wonderful glitch to have ^^ Really enjoying your story and I'm really glad I didn't have anything to drink at that last part XD
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@Tixxis Thank you for the lovely description of Macaria's history. I'm afraid you did more research than Mr. Gamboa and I did. I just Wikipedia-ed "Hades" and Macaria was listed as one of his children. I do like the name, though, and I think it suits her. :)
I apologize in advance for the groan-y title of this next chapter. I was just going to call it "Fatherhood," but then I typed it out and I couldn't help myself.
Chapter 6: Father Hood
In his haste to depart for the hospital, Mr. Gamboa had forgotten Patches' evening feeding. As a result, the conflict between Reese and the cowplant came to a head.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Patches%20eats%20Reese_zpsdzjdtfk4.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Patches%20eats%20Reese_zpsdzjdtfk4.jpg.html)
Fortunately, Reese was relatively unscathed, and actually much less angry. This was something of a relief, as she had taken to spending her nights repeatedly kicking over the trashcan and picking it back up again. It was nice for her to have some occupation, but Mr. Gamboa was afraid it would disturb the baby's sleep.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Haha_zps7cbrfauw.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Haha_zps7cbrfauw.jpg.html)
Mr. Gamboa arrived home from the hospital and carried Macaria up to her room. He was pleased to note that her lavender skin matched the décor perfectly.
Despite his initial misgivings, he found he took to breastfeeding quite naturally.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Breastfeeding_zpszguuvmjs.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Breastfeeding_zpszguuvmjs.jpg.html)
Macaria had been born just after midnight, so Mr. Gamboa had plenty of time to get her settled in before morning. He wouldn't even have to miss a day of work.
Macaria dropped off to sleep, and Mr. Gamboa went downstairs to explain to Patches that his name was now Cerberus. Mr. Gamboa's Simpedia research had turned up this name, which he felt was much more dignified and fitting for Death's pet.
Patches was unimpressed.
In the morning, Mr. Gamboa gave Macaria one last tickle, and headed off to work with a spring in his step. Fatherhood was turning out to be quite simple.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Tickles_zpsmivbqtqq.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Tickles_zpsmivbqtqq.jpg.html)
In truth, Macaria was an astonishingly easy baby. She seemed somehow to sense that her father required a little coddling, so she kept her demands few and her giggles plentiful. She saved her messier moments for daycare. Mr. Gamboa never changed a single diaper.
Mr. Gamboa arrived home from work on Macaria's birthday, fed Patches/Cerberus, and headed up to his daughter's bedroom. He paused one last time to consider the option of sending Macaria home to be raised by her mother. She babbled sweetly at him, eyes full of hope and potential, and he knew it was out of the question. He hadn't asked for fatherhood, and he was certainly an imperfect father. Much about the road ahead frankly terrified him, but wherever it led he knew they would walk it together.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Last%20Cuddles_zpsehsp6qx8.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Last%20Cuddles_zpsehsp6qx8.jpg.html)
Mr. Gamboa stood aside as his daughter leapt from her bassinet, an energetic and lively little girl.
They immediately became best friends, and then Macaria looked expectantly at her father and asked what was for dinner.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Whats%20for%20Dinner_zpsq0u5ymfj.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Whats%20for%20Dinner_zpsq0u5ymfj.jpg.html)
Mr. Gamboa eyed the stove and microwave, both completely blocked by a giant cowplant, then suggested that Macaria go outside and try out the new monkey bars while he did some rearranging.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Little%20Scamp_zpsj1ntl1pe.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Little%20Scamp_zpsj1ntl1pe.jpg.html)
To his credit, Mr. Gamboa only cut himself twice while preparing his first family dinner.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Cooking%20is%20Hard_zpsu63hij7e.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Cooking%20is%20Hard_zpsu63hij7e.jpg.html)
To Macaria's credit, she was very subtle about shunning her father's meal in favor of a bowl of yogurt.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/No%20Thanks%20Ill%20Have%20Yogurt_zpsje6flisb.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/No%20Thanks%20Ill%20Have%20Yogurt_zpsje6flisb.jpg.html)
Mr. Gamboa may not have been much of a cook, but he made an excellent space monster.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Space%20Monster_zpss0gldq8v.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Space%20Monster_zpss0gldq8v.jpg.html)
He was also a fine tutor.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Helping%20with%20Homework_zpshvsycqvr.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Helping%20with%20Homework_zpshvsycqvr.jpg.html)
Macaria completed her homework, and was sent to bed promptly at 9, while Mr. Gamboa set about doing the dishes and tending the garden. Though he had long ago completed his gardening aspiration, he was loathe to pull it all out. He still needed many of the plants for his doomed serums. Unfortunately, the weeding and watering took all night, leaving him no time to work on his rocket.
He woke Macaria at 6, and faced off against the stove again, making a valiant attempt at scrambled eggs. He was a Stoves and Grills Master, after all. That had to count for something.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Cooking%20is%20Hard%202_zps6mbmlglb.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Cooking%20is%20Hard%202_zps6mbmlglb.jpg.html)
In the end, his eggs were excellent, but too slow, and Macaria bolted down another bowl of yogurt before heading out for her first day at school.
Mr. Gamboa sighed. He gazed despondently from the pests buzzing about his Chrysanthemums to the dishes mouldering on the counter to his neglected rocket ship outside. “Sometimes,” he told the inventing robot when he got to work, “There's so much to do that I wish there were two of me.”
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Lets%20Clone%20Something_zpsgena6lr5.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Lets%20Clone%20Something_zpsgena6lr5.jpg.html)
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Oh no! LOL! I love the way you hit us with a 'one-liner' at the end of every chapter. I'm totally cracking up. ;D I think you may have out done yourself with this one though!
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The credit for looking up Macaria's name goes to HelenP. :)
She had to look it up, and when she said so, I wanted to know more about the name too.
Cerberus I know. He guarded the gates of the Netherworld for Hades. Scary!
Macaria is so subtle - what a darling!
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Grim breastfeeding and cooking, whatever next? ;P Another wonderful update.
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Cerebrus is a very fitting name. I love Macaria's skin, can't wait to see her human glamour. :D
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Just a quick heads-up: I'm heading off on vacation tomorrow so this is likely to be the last chapter for two weeks or so. I'm hoping to get a lot of gameplay time in, though, so I can come back with a lot of new material for Mr. Gamboa's story. Just wanted to make sure no one thought I'd given up for good. :)
Chapter 7: Jamaal
The next day, Macaria chose to go to school disguised. She told Mr. Gamboa she was tired of the other kids asking her about the power source for her spacesuit lights. Mr. Gamboa understood completely. He'd gone back to wearing his robes full-time after too many people at the gym asked him where that black smoke was coming from.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Getting%20Focused_zpsdjjakyvu.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Getting%20Focused_zpsdjjakyvu.jpg.html)
It was a particularly difficult day at work. Mr. Gamboa first failed to transform a metal . . .
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Fire_zpsi8xemzzi.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Fire_zpsi8xemzzi.jpg.html)
. . . and then his serum testing turned out even worse than usual.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Oops%203_zpsq8zu2pbo.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Oops%203_zpsq8zu2pbo.jpg.html)
Nevertheless, he completed all of his required daily tasks and found himself with an hour to kill before quitting time. For a bit of fun, he tossed his cloning machine back into the invention constructor and installed a new upgrade he'd been contemplating.
A few whirs and clicks later, he found himself standing on the pad, surrounded by glowing green rings.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Cloning%20Process_zpsiizrrbl7.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Cloning%20Process_zpsiizrrbl7.jpg.html)
A moment after that, he was looking directly at his own mirror image.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mirror%20Game_zpshgfax18p.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mirror%20Game_zpshgfax18p.jpg.html)
“Hello,” he said, with as much gravity as he could muster. “I am Mr. Gamboa.”
“Jamaal Paris,” stated the mirror image, “A pleasure to make your acquaintance.”
Mr. Gamboa was somewhat taken aback. He had incorrectly assumed he'd be able to name his own clone. He'd been torn between Thanatos and a few other options, though Jamaal had certainly not been among them.
He inquired as politely as he could as to the origin of the clone's name. Jamaal replied that as he'd only come into existence about ten seconds previous that most things in the universe, his name included, were rather a mystery to him.
There was no time for any further interrogation, as the whistle blew signaling the end of the work day. Mr. Gamboa beckoned for Jamaal to follow him home.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Macaria%20Meets%20Jamaal_zpsnrqk8myb.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Macaria%20Meets%20Jamaal_zpsnrqk8myb.jpg.html)
Macaria burst out of the front door the moment the two Reapers arrived at Cypress Terrace. “Uncle Jamaal!” she shrieked happily, and threw herself into his arms.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Hugs%20for%20Uncle%20Jamaal_zps1bl02ozq.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Hugs%20for%20Uncle%20Jamaal_zps1bl02ozq.jpg.html)
“You already know . . . er . . . Uncle Jamaal?” asked Mr. Gamboa.
“Of course,” she answered, “ he appeared in my relationship panel after school. We're already friends. Come meet Patches, Uncle Jamaal!”
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Taunting%20Patches_zpsulq6o3gd.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Taunting%20Patches_zpsulq6o3gd.jpg.html)
“It's Cerberus!” Mr. Gamboa called after them, then shrugged and followed them into the house.
Jamaal possessed all of Mr. Gamboa's purchased traits, though none of his skills, so Mr. Gamboa strongly encouraged him to develop some. He started by enlisting him in leveling his own logic skill by playing many late-night rounds of chess. By morning, the two had become good friends.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Up%20All%20Night_zps45tmvnep.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Up%20All%20Night_zps45tmvnep.jpg.html)
After waking Macaria, Jamaal made breakfast, and then he and Mr. Gamboa started in on the gardening.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Gardening%20Together_zpscs8rpvix.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Gardening%20Together_zpscs8rpvix.jpg.html)
When it came time to leave for work, Mr. Gamboa waved cheerily and suggested that Jamaal might consider getting a job himself once the watering was done. Just something to pass the time, and give him some goals to work toward. Jamaal promised he would give the matter some thought.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Jamaal%20Enjoys%20the%20Hot%20Tub_zpsym4znqhu.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Jamaal%20Enjoys%20the%20Hot%20Tub_zpsym4znqhu.jpg.html)
That evening, Mr. Gamboa arrived home to find Macaria eating dinner, her homework and extra credit already complete, thanks to Jamaal's help. Macaria's new tutor was nowhere to be found however, and Mr. Gamboa was pleased to hear that Jamaal had heeded his advice and was already off at his first day of work.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Nice%20Normal%20Family_zpsyderfty1.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Nice%20Normal%20Family_zpsyderfty1.jpg.html)
“Yeah. He said he went to the park earlier and met some people.”
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Splat_zps7ctze1ew.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Splat_zps7ctze1ew.jpg.html)
“He made a couple of new friends, and one of them knew about an opening at some restaurant or bar or something.”
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Splat%202_zpscwdzeube.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Splat%202_zpscwdzeube.jpg.html)
“What an impressively productive day he had.” Mr. Gamboa was pleased that Macaria had such a positive new role model in her life.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Fight_zps4zamny5o.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Fight_zps4zamny5o.jpg.html)
Mr. Gamboa sent the child off to bed and went out to do a bit of stargazing with the telescope. He sighed happily and patted himself on the back. His little family was steadily growing and life was good indeed.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Telescope_zpswamf8tzi.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Telescope_zpswamf8tzi.jpg.html)
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Lol, funnier and funnier *snicker*. Have a nice holiday, can't wait to read more about the adventures of Mr G.R. Gamboa. :)
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Oooh!... Mr Gamboa wished there were two of him and that's exactly what happened... in a way.
Jamaal doesn't seem half as nice in public.
Enjoy your holiday, Francesca! :)
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Another great update. Enjoy your vacation.
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Good role model, I love Jamaal. Hope you have a wonderful holiday =D
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Enjoy your vacation. We'll "see" you when you get back.
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Jamaal is a legend! The best role model a young girl could have haha. This is great stuff! ;D
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Another great update, thanks. Have fun on holiday.
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Is there more? Please say yes. I have laughed myself silly over this one. I love it!
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Oh, there is! I took a longer break than I intended, and truthfully Macaria's teen years have been boring me silly so I've been playing other files. Thank you for hanging in there. I do want to do Mr. Gamboa justice and finish his story off right!
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
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I can't believe I've missed this in the stories boards! Shame on me! This is brilliant! When @Playalot first mentioned the Grimmie bug I thought it was a once off, but now I'm so glad it wasn't! Are you playing this as a generational game? Or just winging it? It would be interesting to see how the generations turn out, all with GR's help since he's not aging, but it would be so sad and ironic to see GR faced with the death of his loved ones...
Sent from my BlackBerry 9720 using Tapatalk
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Hey! Glad you like it! I'm just winging it completely. :) It's mostly just been an experiment to see what was possible given that Mr. G has a lot of built-in advantages and limitations. It's also an experiment for me in story-writing. I'd like to do a generational story someday, but I want to keep Mr. Gamboa relatively brief. I agree that the death of his loved ones would be really painful and ironic, but I want to keep the story's tone more lighthearted and frankly I'm so fond of him at this point that I don't think I could put him through it.
Thanks for commenting, guys! I feel reinvigorated and ready to jump back into this story now.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
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I'll be checking daily!
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Chapter 8: Growth
Macaria, frustrated at the slow progress of her efforts to complete childhood aspirations, turned to her father for advice. “How do you do it, Dad?”
Mr. Gamboa thought for a moment and then said, “Well, I don't sleep. You do seem to lose a lot of potentially productive time by spending it in bed.”
Macaria agreed, and with the help of sleep potions ended up completing three out of four possible aspirations before her teen birthday.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Mr%20Gamboa%20Chapter%207/Potions_zpst2iyqvan.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Mr%20Gamboa%20Chapter%207/Potions_zpst2iyqvan.jpg.html)
“I would have got the fourth one, too,” she complained, “but none of the other kids are awake at three a.m., and I needed them to be my friends. It's too bad they don't have good parents like mine to teach them to stay up all night.”
Alas, the busy pace of the household meant that some members were a bit neglected. Jamaal stepped away from his gardening to feed Cerberus one evening, and found the cowplant had departed before he got there.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Mr%20Gamboa%20Chapter%207/RIP%20Patches_zpsgslvonv4.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Mr%20Gamboa%20Chapter%207/RIP%20Patches_zpsgslvonv4.jpg.html)
Mr. Gamboa was distraught. Patches/Cerberbus had been his first friend in his new life, and his unceremonious exit from the living realm left a large empty space in Mr. Gamboa's heart, as well as his kitchen.
He filled the kitchen space with a fish tank, but the new residents lacked Patches' personality, and they also smelled terrible. He'd stocked the tank with a few old fish he'd caught for fertilizer, and while they swam about quite energetically, Jamaal suggested that perhaps they were not as fresh as they might be.
Mr. Gamboa nodded his agreement, and restocked the tank with fresh, store-bought specimens in time time for Macaria's birthday.
He gave Macaria one last squeeze, and ushered her toward the cake. Almost before they knew it, he and Jamaal found themselves face to face with a teenager.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Mr%20Gamboa%20Chapter%207/Teenage%20Girl_zpslesytj57.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Mr%20Gamboa%20Chapter%207/Teenage%20Girl_zpslesytj57.jpg.html)
Macaria immediately developed a fascination with yoga, and took to spending her nights practicing poses in front of the windows in her room. She ceased to eat anything other than coconut carob cake, and that very weekend dragged her father and uncle out to the new spa for classes.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Mr%20Gamboa%20Chapter%207/Macaria%20gets%20Zen_zps745o0yil.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Mr%20Gamboa%20Chapter%207/Macaria%20gets%20Zen_zps745o0yil.jpg.html)
Mr. Gamboa gamely attempted to join the class, but found himself unable to communicate with the instructor, so spent the time perfecting the one pose that felt natural to him.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Mr%20Gamboa%20Chapter%207/Corpse%20Pose_zpslg4myl48.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Mr%20Gamboa%20Chapter%207/Corpse%20Pose_zpslg4myl48.jpg.html)
Jamaal skipped the class in favor of the meditation garden.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Mr%20Gamboa%20Chapter%207/Zen%20Garden%20Fight_zps1xwd4epu.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Mr%20Gamboa%20Chapter%207/Zen%20Garden%20Fight_zps1xwd4epu.jpg.html)
Macaria sought him out there later, and was excited to instead find one of her own kind in disguise. They exchanged a secret handshake and promised to hang out again later to trade observations.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Mr%20Gamboa%20Chapter%207/Secret%20Handshake_zpsixg1qpi1.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Mr%20Gamboa%20Chapter%207/Secret%20Handshake_zpsixg1qpi1.jpg.html)
Mr. Gamboa was pleased Macaria had found a friend, but found himself unable to share her enthusiasm for the spa, and, eager to direct her adolescent effervescence toward other interests, he suggested a trip to the park.
Jamaal headed off to work, and Mr. Gamboa gratefully settled in for a bit of fishing while Macaria grilled up dinner.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Mr%20Gamboa%20Chapter%207/Hmmmburgers_zpsztj6zx7h.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Mr%20Gamboa%20Chapter%207/Hmmmburgers_zpsztj6zx7h.jpg.html)
He noticed a teenaged companion join her for dinner and sighed with satisfaction. Their conversation seemed to be particularly absorbing and went on late into the night. “Good,” he thought, “I'll bet she's not thinking about yoga at all right now. A little healthy socialization will be the perfect distraction.”
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Mr%20Gamboa%20Chapter%207/Macaria%20Meets%20a%20Boy_zpsnxasaaf3.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Mr%20Gamboa%20Chapter%207/Macaria%20Meets%20a%20Boy_zpsnxasaaf3.jpg.html)
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RIP Patches/Cerberus, you were a good friend.
Mr. Gamboa gamely attempted to join the class, but found himself unable to communicate with the instructor, so spent the time perfecting the one pose that felt natural to him.
Priceless. Absolutely priceless. Another great update.
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I love this, man it's so funny! Can't wait for the next update! ;D
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Good to see you're still running this story, looking forward to the next update.
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Adore this story. R.I.P patches. Most beloved cow plant ever.
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Just read through your story, I just love it to pieces! Hope there's more :-)
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
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I can't believe I haven't read this story before..
It's simply brilliant and so funny.
The cliffhangers are spot on every time.
I can't wait to see what happens next.
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Chapter 9: Exploration
Mr. Gamboa finished upgrading his rocketship, and took to spending a great deal of time in space. He couldn't quite explain it, but somehow launching himself into the sky was the only time he felt he could leave all of his worries and troubles behind him.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Mr%20Gamboa%20Chapter%207/Leaving%20Your%20Cares%20Behind_zpsddv45e9o.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Mr%20Gamboa%20Chapter%207/Leaving%20Your%20Cares%20Behind_zpsddv45e9o.jpg.html)
He found the planet Sixam to be pleasingly calm, quiet, and dimly lit, not to mention rich with plants and rocks to collect.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Mr%20Gamboa%20Chapter%207/Space%20is%20Pretty_zpspe3istlq.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Mr%20Gamboa%20Chapter%207/Space%20is%20Pretty_zpspe3istlq.jpg.html)
He did often have the unnerving sensation that he was being followed, but he didn't let it bother him too much.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Mr%20Gamboa%20Chapter%207/Definitely%20Being%20Followed_zpsdk1emwqt.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Mr%20Gamboa%20Chapter%207/Definitely%20Being%20Followed_zpsdk1emwqt.jpg.html)
Jamaal, on the other hand, was exceedingly bothered. The moment Mr. Gamboa returned from his latest rocket voyage, Jamaal pulled him aside and whispered insistently, “You've got to talk to her.”
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Mr%20Gamboa%20Chapter%207/You%20Need%20to%20Talk%20to%20Her_zpsmhiezvvw.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Mr%20Gamboa%20Chapter%207/You%20Need%20to%20Talk%20to%20Her_zpsmhiezvvw.jpg.html)
“Who? Reese? Has she been kicking over the trashcan again?”
“No, Macaria. She's got that boy over again.”
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Mr%20Gamboa%20Chapter%207/Ahngee_zpsy3tqkydo.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Mr%20Gamboa%20Chapter%207/Ahngee_zpsy3tqkydo.jpg.html)
“Her little friend? Oh, good-”
“No, not good, my friend. She answered the door in nothing but a towel, and she's alone with him now in the hot tub.”
“Is that a problem?”
“She's glowing pink. It's time you guys had the talk.”
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Mr%20Gamboa%20Chapter%207/Hot%20Tub%20Whisper_zps2movtgxf.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Mr%20Gamboa%20Chapter%207/Hot%20Tub%20Whisper_zps2movtgxf.jpg.html)
“The talk?”
“Yes the talk. The woohoo talk. The birds and the bees. Where babies come from.”
“Where babies . . .oh, I suppose you're right. Are they still out there? The boy should probably hear this, too.”
“Excellent,” chuckled Jamaal, “I'll go with you for support.”
Macaria and Argus (her little friend) jumped apart guiltily as Mr. Gamboa and Jamaal climbed into the swirling water. “Hey Dad, Jamaal. What's up?”
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Mr%20Gamboa%20Chapter%207/Woohoo%20Talk_zpslbx8i7kb.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Mr%20Gamboa%20Chapter%207/Woohoo%20Talk_zpslbx8i7kb.jpg.html)
“Well, Macaria, now that you're older I think it's time I explained some very important things. You see, when two species are very curious about one another-”
“Oh, Dad, no! Please don't!” yelped Macaria.
Mr. Gamboa pressed on, “-sometimes one will send a ship to abduct a member of the other one to perform experiments. Experiments which can be rather invasive, occasionally resulting in-”
“Gotta go!” cried Argus, leaping from the tub. “See you at school tomorrow, Macaria!”
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Mr%20Gamboa%20Chapter%207/Gotta%20Go%201_zpspcsbtahc.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Mr%20Gamboa%20Chapter%207/Gotta%20Go%201_zpspcsbtahc.jpg.html)
“Well, my work is done,” said Jamaal, as he likewise made his escape.
The next day Argus returned.
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Mr%20Gamboa%20Chapter%207/Conversation%20Alt_zps0uxswzzu.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Mr%20Gamboa%20Chapter%207/Conversation%20Alt_zps0uxswzzu.jpg.html)
“Do you think he really doesn't know?” asked Macaria.
“I guess I could send my mom to talk to him if you want,” Argus suggested. “Her woohoo talk was horrible and embarrassing, but at least it was factually accurate.”
“Nah,” said Macaria, “I think it's better if he doesn't find out. He'd never let us use the observatory again. Speaking of which, want to do some stargazing?”
(http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/FrancescaFiori/Mr%20Gamboa/Mr%20Gamboa%20Chapter%207/Come%20on%20In_zpscn82ux0g.jpg) (http://s296.photobucket.com/user/FrancescaFiori/media/Mr%20Gamboa/Mr%20Gamboa%20Chapter%207/Come%20on%20In_zpscn82ux0g.jpg.html)
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OMG! You never fail to delight with this story. I just can't get over the whoo hoo talk with a clueless "grim" Mr. Gamboa. Too funny.
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“Nah,” said Macaria, “I think it's better if he doesn't find out. He'd never let us use the observatory again. Speaking of which, want to do some stargazing?”
I guess they've been 'stargazing' a few times already ;D
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LOL *tears* Oh my! Two Grims hopping into the hot tub WITH them to give the woohoo talk. Hahaha... And then it was all nonsense anyway! Too funny.
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I'm moving this to the Stories Graveyard due to inactivity. @FrancescaFiori - you can revive this story by contacting a moderator.
Original Storyboard: Sims 4 Misc and Player-Made Challenge Stories
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@FrancescaFiori I dearly hope that you are just taking a little break from this story and will return to it soon! *crosses fingers
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Hi! Thanks so much, oshizu! I very much want to work on this story again. I have plans! My family just moved to a new home, so I'm still a bit discombobulated. I want to get a couple more chapters in the bank before I ask to have this thread resurrected, but I promise I am planning on it. I just want to unpack a few more boxes. :)
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