Chapter Twenty: When Storks Fly

For the most part, Erik felt as if he was in a waking dream. Up until the wedding, which to his surprise came off without so much as a hint of drama, whenever he came home from a concert, Kaitlyn was in a foul mood. She’d stomp around those ancient stone halls all bent over with a scowl marring her beautiful face and he always wondered why. He had to work. And he ceased to invite her along because he couldn't stand how hurt she’d be any time he interacted with a fan. Leaving the decision to stay or go entirely up to her. Mostly she stayed behind.

“Why can’t you just stop flirting with them? Some of them are just teens! Back where I grew up, we’d call that ‘jail bait’ so you best watch your step, Old Man.”

Erik looked around him, thinking his father had come in. Certainly, she wasn't calling him an old man. He was only twenty-seven. You’re not old until you hit thirty, at least, he told himself.

“Kaitie, why can’t you just get off of my back! My fans buying tickets to see me in concert is what will put food on our table and keep a roof over our heads, after we move out. I should think with the amount of rain we've been having lately you would appreciate that.”

“Yeah, yeah, what I don’t appreciate is that I’ll have a passel of little kids and you’ll dump me for one of your cute little fans. Or worse, yet, you’ll walk out of the wedding altogether.” Kaitlyn sighed and bowed her head. “Leave me standing at the wedding arch …”

Erik drew her to him and held her tight. “I won’t, you know,” he said into her ear. 

“Won’t what?”

“Won’t leave you at the arch, or with a passel of little kids. I’d take at least half of ‘em with me,” he said, and then leaned away from her as she smacked his upper arm. He grinned and watched as Kaitlyn’s anger subsided.

“Can’t you ever be serious?”

“I am and I have been. I’m serious about marrying you.”

Happily, once the ‘I do’s’ had been said, his wife became another person. The person he knew her to be when they first met. Cool, calm, unflappable Kaitlyn was back. She no longer greeted him with a melt down whenever he returned. Even when he’d had several encounters of a flirtatious manner. He began to realize the problem was his unfortunate track record. Engaged three times prior, twice to the same Sim, why shouldn't Kaitlyn be wary? Insecure. Now, she was the one everyone called Mrs. Cantrell, and she bore a 22 caret gold band to show it.

Time slipped by. Erik stayed busy, writing song lyrics, recording music and holding concerts. He even hosted a couple of Fan Meet & Greets, for which he was given a couple of awards. Then he got brave enough to throw a Charity Event. This also went very well. He raised an ample amount of money, and was awarded a very nice trophy for his efforts. He placed all three on the mantle in his very own Music room. Which really was a music room, unlike that of his sister’s.

Before too long Kaitlyn found him in his music room, and gave him some exciting news. They were going to have a baby. Erik was warmed by her Big News, his dearest dream about to be realized. No longer would he be just Uncle Erik, but would have a small Sim calling him Daddy. He was going to be a Daddy, he thought as he gazed out of the window. A thrill running through him with the thought.

“When is the baby due?” he asked Kaitlyn.

“On the sixteenth of June. Not for awhile, yet.”

Opening up his cell phone, he marked his calendar. “Okay, okay, okay, that’s good.” 

Time went by, Erik cut another album, sales were good. Finally summer arrived. Consulting his calendar, he was careful to not book anything for the night of the sixteenth.

Erik went off to the Glass Ceiling for his gig that was due to start at seven. As usual, he tried to get there a bit early. Promptly, he began. He was well into his first set when he noticed a rather familiar figure walking toward the stage. The music hall was packed, it was a good turnout. As he finished the song, he took a moment to catch his breath, gazing out at the audience. There was Kaitlyn, trying her best to be as unobtrusive as possible. He could tell by the grimace, and her body language something was wrong. 

“Forgive me for a minute,” he said into the microphone. “I may have an emergency. Kaitie, Kaitie is that you?”

Waving her arms at him to get his attention, he finally saw her and said, “What’s wrong, what is it?”

Instead of shouting, she merely pointed at her wristwatch.

“I should be done about ten,” he said, to which she shook her head.

Again, she pointed at her wristwatch and then rubbed her huge belly. One of his fans helped her into a chair while a Paparazzi shouted, “Is there a doctor in the house?”

“Doctor? What do we need with a doctor?” 

“Your wife says it’s ‘go time’,” the same Paparazzi shouted back. 

“Go-time? Baby, it’s only the fourteenth. You said the sixteenth!” Erik went pale and began to go into a pre-birth panic. “Sorry, I have to call the concert. Check with the front desk for a rain check!” With that Erik jumped down from the stage, grabbed up his wife and vacated the venue. Once they got home, he realized he was also scheduled to do a magazine shoot for the cover of Sim Teen Magazine.

     “I know I said I’d be there, but my wife has gone into labor. Can’t you send a couple of photographers here, instead?”

Shutting off the phone, he quickly called his parents and Kaitlyn’s parents. Then he called Brianna so that she could call the rest of the family.

Erik paced and then he paced some more. Finally, the doorbell rang and his Butler let in the two professional photographers and make up artists. Very shortly thereafter the doorbell rang again. This time it was his younger brother, Joey, Dr. Joe, as he was called. Glancing into the living room Doctor Joe Cantrell, Jr., gave Erik a peculiar expression, as the star posed for a photograph, then he hastened up the flight of stairs, his little black medical bag in tow.

The photo shoot took about two hours. Erik hoped they would come out okay. He’d never before felt so nervous. What was going on upstairs? The house was rather well sound-proofed. At least his wife wasn't screaming in pain. Or, at least he couldn't hear it.  Was everything okay? Was the baby okay? After seeing the professional crew out the door, Erik turned and ran down the entry hall turning right and then took the stairs two at a time.

By the time he got back upstairs, Kaitlyn looking radiant introduced him to his new son. Joey smiled at his older brother, busy rolling his sleeves down again. 

Patting his brother on the back, “Gotta go,” Joey said.

“Thanks, Joe, for being here. I owe you one.”

Joey shrugged. “I needed the experience.”

“What? You experimented — on my wife!”

Joseph Cantrell, Jr., snickered as he left the room, shaking his head. “I’ll call you,” he said, closing the bedroom door behind him.

Erik kissed his wife and then gathered up the tiny bundle she placed into his waiting arms.

“Hey, Daniel, welcome to the world.”

Chapter Nineteen: Tears, Fears and Wedding Bell Blues

The couple spent hours upon hours planning their very special day. They had deadlines to meet for the date they finally chose. Erik had to weave things in between his bookings. When he wasn't singing, he was posing for the latest cover of the most-read magazines. His popularity was soaring, which made Kaitlyn very happy, if not a tad on edge. They went out, as often as they dared, but upon arriving at whatever event it happened to be, it wasn't long before some flirty over-heated fan was throwing herself at Erik. Kaitlyn fought to keep from losing control of her emotions.

When she spoke to Brianna about it, she was reassured by her soon-to-be-sister, and best girlfriend on the planet, that Erik truly loved her and for Kaitlyn to not worry. “I think what’s really eating at you, Kaitie, if I may,” Brianna said, pouring a cup of calming Chamomile tea for each of them, “is that Erik has a bad track record when it comes to weddings.”

“Yes,” Kaitlyn said, quietly, her blue eyes tearing up. “I do fear he’ll just up and walk the other way. I've read the Trend papers on it. Like you said, he’s been engaged three times. Third time around he actually made it to the wedding castle, just to thank the guests for coming and then he left the building, which is also what you told me. But the way they put it they made him seem like a monster. Erik's not a monster. Confused sometimes, maybe."

Brianna laughed. “I like to tease him about all of that. I call him the Runaway Groom.”

“Oh,” Kaitlyn burst into a fit of giggles. “I've seen that movie. Runaway Bride. Maybe I should make eggs in a variety of ways and see if he even knows how he likes them?”

Brianna reached out and patted Kaitlyn’s hand. “Good idea, but Kaitie, I've had your cooking. Perhaps, I should prepare the eggs.”

The Charity Event Erik was invited to, to which he brought Kaitlyn along, ended up being pretty much rained out. Part of the venue was a patio setting at some chic bar in San Myshuno. They laughed, anyway, and decided to memorialize the moment. This was one of their last outings, prior to the pre-wedding events planned.

Erik was jolted awake by his alarm clock. He didn't even realize until it went off that he’d set it. Thankful that he’d had the insight. Sitting up in his bed, he scrubbed at his tired eyes. Blurry, he could barely see. He grabbed up his wire-rim glasses from the nightstand. To his shock it was already 8:30 AM. The wedding was set for 10:00 AM. It was all the way downtown in Del Sol Valley.

He scrambled out of the covers, nearly tripping and falling head first, the bed sheets and blanket somehow having gotten all tangled up. He wasn't aware of having a restless night. In fact, he’d slept pretty solidly. But then again, the guys had thrown him a bit of a Bachelor Party over at the Discotheque a few blocks away. They danced, they drank, they told flirty jokes. They held a moment of silence for the bachelorhood that was about to die. Toasting the groom and teasing him about the ‘ball and chain’ he was soon to acquire. Erik just shook his head over that one. He didn't view Kaitlyn that way. She was his best friend. His BFF. Then they sent him home with the warning he had barely ten hours left on his own.

Erik saw to his morning ablutions quickly. He shaved, brushed his teeth and then jumped into the shower to otherwise get ready. Unlike his last wedding, his stomach was in a bit of a flip-flop. His head was spinning and he was almost giddy. Too much juice, last night?

He grabbed his brand new tuxedo, a deep crimson color and got dressed. Then he all but ransacked his dresser looking for the pair of matching red socks he knew he had purchased. Had his little niece and nephew been playing up here again? They were quite a duo, T’Nia and little Sarai. Odd name they gave that boy, but he was part Vulcan.

At last, he found his socks, slipped them over his toes and then pulled his shoes on. Glancing at the clock his heart started to race. He was going to be late. This would not bode well. Kaitlyn was already half-afraid she’d be left at the wedding arch, despite how he tried to convince her he wouldn't walk away.

“There you are,” Brianna said, as he met her family on the second floor landing. “I’d about given up on you. Spock, I thought you said you two got back early.”

“It was just after midnight,” he said, his tone emotionless.

Erik batted at the air. “It’s nobody’s doing, I just overslept. Let’s go, before Kaitlyn gets there before me and starts to panic.”

Normally Erik loved to drive, but he was infinitely glad today that his Chauffeur had come to collect them. He chewed on his thumb nail nearly the entire ride. At last, they pulled up in front of the Newcrest Wedding Chapel. Erik sighed. Already, the Paparazzi were waiting on the front stoop of the building.’

“Oh, gees,” he said.

“You really didn't think they’d ignore today, did you?” Brianna said, patting his knee. “Come on, it will be all right.” She winked, as she eased out of the backseat.

“You promise?” he said. Walking toward the door, he could hear the clacking of the cameras in his ears. “Excuse me,” he said as he got to the top step, “please, I’m certain I’m wanted inside.”

“Erik, can you give me an exclusive interview?” Lexi McCoy called, sweetly.

He stood on the porch and answered her questions, all the while another Paparazzi hollered at him, “Erik, over here. C’mon, give me a pose!” Glancing her way, the bright flash went off, blinding him for a few moments.

As more and more guests made their way to the building, Erik turned back toward Lexi to find her gazing at him with an all-too-familiar flirty expression. When she began to swivel her hips he went from amused to annoyed. “Lexi,” he said, sternly, grabbing her hand and shoving the roll of Simoleons he took from his pocket into her palm. “Please leave. I don’t need this today of all days. Leave. Just leave.”

“Okay, consider me gone, already. Sheesh. What’s up with you today?”

Turning, Erik went inside, through an arch where the bridal party was gathering. Soon it would be time, he realized, glancing at his wristwatch. Where was Kaitlyn? Behind him, he saw Roxanne Nye enter the hall. Kaitlyn had stayed with her parents last night, after she got back from her bridal shower, that is. Perhaps, her party went over long?  

What if she didn't show up, Erik began to worry. He supposed it would serve him right. He had effectively left two brides at the altar, although the first one never saw the inside of a chapel or even civil hall.

Hearing a rustle as Sims began to move around, Erik glanced behind him. Kaitlyn was a vision in white. Very much the same in style as Brianna’s bridesmaid gown, Kaitlyn was the most beautiful Sim he had ever seen. With her arrival, and the rest of his family, the two made their way down the aisle to stand in front of the wedding arch. 

Wedding music piped in from somewhere commenced and so did their ceremony. Erik took his bride by her hands and recited his vows. Kaitlyn smiled and recited her vows to him. Then he slipped a ring on her hand. They hugged, they kissed and confetti was released from above them. Glancing around, Erik couldn't see a dry eye in the house and he realized he was married. He did it. Without hesitation, without doubt.

This time, he was going to get a slice of that cake, he determined as he followed his bride, his wife, over to the table for the first slice. They then fed each other a bite. Sitting at their head table, before too long, they got up and followed the rest of the family downstairs to the bar area and dance floor. The party was in full swing. There was dancing, some drinking, some laughing and lots of hugging. Finally, the evening drew to a close. Erik escorted his new wife back outside to their limousine for the drive back to Willow Creek. Dropped off out front, the two just gazed at each other. 

“Here we are,” Erik said.

“Yes, here we are,” Kaitlyn purred. “Do you have your key?”

“I do, and I have the code for the gate, too.”

“Well, then, shall we?”

“Oh, you mean go inside and start our life together?” He smiled, and lifting her up, carried her into their home.

Chapter Eighteen: Keys to Happiness

   

   “Kaitie, grab your shoes and c’mon,” Erik said with a bright smile.

Slipping into her tennis shoes, she jumped off of her bed. “Where are we going?”

Erik grinned widely, reminding Kaitlyn of the Cheshire Cat of Alice’s fame. “I have a surprise for you.”

“Another surprise? Erik, you’re spoiling me. What is it this time?” When all she received was a shrug of his shoulders, she said, “Do I get a hint, at least?”

Again Erik smiled as he dug into the front pocket of his jeans and then held up his hand, a shiny new set of house keys dangling from the end of his forefinger. Kaitlyn let out a loud squeal of glee.

“Our house? It’s ready?”

With a nod of his blond head, he said, “Contractor is waiting on us for the final walk-thru.”

As it is with all anticipated things, the drive to Willow Creek took what felt like ages. Kaitlyn found herself watching out of the car’s window, taking in the scenery of this her new neighborhood. She anticipated they would live here for a very long time. The house was a mansion, with many rooms in a wondrous setting, just yards from the small, exclusive harbor.

Finally, the limousine pulled up to the curb, the Contractor pulling up just in front of them. He held open the door of the backseat of the limo while Erik and Kaitlyn climbed out. Together the three walked up the curved drive in the front. Maintaining a discreet distance, the builder stood off to the side, while Erik deactivated the security gate, and then followed the couple as they walked up the walkway, up the stairs to the front door. Waiting patiently the builder urged them to try the keys. “I just want to be certain,” Ben, of Ben the Builder, Incorporated, said. “Can’t have the two of you unable to get into your own home, now can we. I hope you find everything to your liking. The work satisfactory.”

Turning toward his bride, Erik handed her one of the two keys. “After you,” he smiled. “Go ahead and unlock it.”

The key slid smoothly into the lock and with a turn to the right, the locking bolt released. Erik reached out and turned the nob opening the door. Kaitlyn gazed inward. The front hall was enormous. “Oh, our fountain arrived,” she said. “It looks so good there. Don’t you think it looks good? Wait a minute, you've already been here,” she gazed at him. “Your guitar is sitting right there.”

“Before we continue the tour, would you mind locking the door again, and trying the other key.”

“No, need,” Kaitlyn said, gesturing toward the guitar in the front entryway. “He’s already been here.”

“Yes, I have, but that doesn't mean I know which of the two identical keys I used. Go ahead and lock her up. What can it hurt?”

“Oh, all right. I just want to see the finished product. All of the suspense is killing me.”

After the mini ritual of locking and unlocking the door, twice, the two stepped into the house, followed by the builder. Straight ahead was a wide archway that led to the formal dining room. Through an archway on their left was the formal, massive livingroom all neatly appointed. “It’s so much prettier than it looked on paper. Wait a minute, there’s furniture in here. Erik? Do we have a squatter? No, wait it looks familiar.” 

      “No, no squatter. Actually, that's why my guitar is here. I got a call from the store stating that we were first on their list of deliveries the other morning. I tried to awaken you, but you were out for the count. Sorry.”

“Oh, no need,” she smiled. “You've arranged it perfectly. I love it!”

Grinning he said, “See, I do listen. Sometimes.”

The couple walked all through the house, inspecting the construction, the paint job, the flooring, making sure everything was to their specifications. They had met with the Contractor on numerous occasions. Erik even had a rough drawing to share with the Sim on just what he envisioned for the place. In some instances, the builder made a few amendments, based on his knowledge and experience in the construction business and Erik was anxious to see how it all worked out.

While there they took many pictures. 

“Ben,” Erik said, hand extended for a shake, “I have to tell you, it all looks great. I’m very pleased with your attention to detail and for your suggestions.” 

“Yes,” Kaitlyn said. “It certainly gives every appearance a Sim of some stature lives here.”

“Ah,  worthy of a Global Superstar? Thank you, that’s mighty high praise, Ma’am.”

The house was everything the couple imagined; Modern without being sterile in look. Large, yet cozy. The exterior was of clapboard siding.

Gaining permission of their soon-to-be neighbors, the two stood in their yard gazing down at the new build. “Erik, it’s perfect,” Kaitlyn said with a small sigh.

“What is it?” 

“I just wish the wedding was tomorrow.”

“You don’t want that, I have a concert tonight.”

Chapter Seventeen: Too Hot to Handle

“Seriously, Kaitlyn?” Erik ranted. “She’s your mother. Why would I fool around with your mother? I can’t help it if she finds me attractive like so many other Sims. While I think she’s pretty enough for an Elder, she’s just not my type. Why are you giving me this grief? Your mom flirted with me, I played back is all, that’s what I do. Hey, I didn't know it was going to make her swoon, I swear.” I never know why it makes them swoon, he thought. Still mystified at his affect on Sims.

“So, you played back, and that’s what you do. What exactly does that mean, Erik Cantrell?” Her eyes shot darts at him. Drawing in a quiet breath, she said, “I think I know why the others left you.”

“I broke it off with them, I’ll have you know. All three times. It was me who called it quits.” Erik swaggered over to Kaitlyn. “Do you want to know why?” His face was very serious. Kaitlyn took half a step back from him.

“I’m not sure,” she said. “Do I?”

“Jealousy. I got sick and tired of their jealous fits, that’s why. And now it’s happening to you. You were so cool, calm and collected when we started to date. The minute I suggested we go exclusive, you started to turn. Let me see your neck,” Erik lifted her long blonde hair off of her shoulder so he could gaze at her pink-toned neck. “Nope. I thought for sure you’d have the scar of multiple bite marks. If not a vampire, then, what has turned you?”

Kaitlyn shook her head, allowing her locks to fall back into place. She set her blue eyes upon the Sim she loved so very much, crossing her arms over her chest. “You never answered my question. About why you play back with the fans that openly flirt — throw themselves at you, I should say. And the way you lean back hands on your chest as if they've just shot you with arrows. Cupid's Arrows, that is.”

“Oh, that.” Erik looked down at his shoes, ran a hand through his long locks and then gazed over at his bride. “Okay, you want an answer, I’ll tell you why. Some of my fans are lonely, maybe even insecure. They’re hesitant to approach, they squeal, they act all nervous. Do they dare approach me? You can almost see the question in their eyes. Will I reject them if they do? How many times have some of them suffered rejection in their lives? Some remain on the fringe and never approach. Too shy. Those that overcome that momentary reserve are just so gleeful when I sign an autograph for them. You would think I just offered them clemency or something. As if I were a king, or even a potentate of some sort…”

“They make you feel good, don’t they.”

Erik shrugged. “Yeah, that’s part of it too, I guess.”

“Please do finish your story.” Kaitlyn took a seat on the arm of the sofa. They were up in the Music Room, so they had privacy as they talked.

Erik walked over to the fireplace to stoke it. Although it was summer, the castle was on the cool side way up here. He kept his back to Kaitlyn, as he slowly moved the logs around with the steel poker. “Some fans even find their courage — an almost now or never attitude — and outright throw themselves at me, yes. If I play back, and I have a tendency to have weak knees, they get this almost magical look in their eyes as if they are feeling beautiful for the first time, ever. Maybe even desirable. I- ah -just – I just try to make them happy. And, that’s all it is,” he said, walking toward her. “It’s not at all the same as when you offer me a rose, or stroke my cheek. While I love my fans, it’s not the same as the love I feel for you. I promise, Kaitlyn,” he said taking a seat next to her on the faux leather sofa, “I will never cheat on you. That’s not the kind of Sim I am. Especially, not with your mother. What kind of a Sim do you think I am?”

Suddenly Kaitlyn found herself laughing. “No, that would just be too weird.” She shuddered. “I like that you and Mom get along, but no, you and her — together. No, just no.”

    “Would kinda be like you going out with my Dad,” he conceded. “Even weirder.”

“Hey, I like your Dad. But, yeah, it’s a little like thinking about your parents having woohoo. Ick. I’d rather not go there.”

Kaitlyn got to her feet. Erik took her by the arms. “Feel better?”

“Yes, I do. I’m very glad we can talk things out. Oh, and I should tell you, I bought another wedding gown.”

“Another one? I know it’s a trend to have one for the ceremony and a different one for the reception.”

“Not in my case. After the fitting, that first one just wasn't working at all. It suddenly fit as if it were two sizes too big. It made me feel fat!”

“You’re not fat, not even close.”

“I know and that’s the problem. I felt as if my Mom was pushing me to select that one. I never really did like it. It wasn't flattering it the least little bit, it wasn't me. I should have had your mother come along, too, for some sort of balance. I'm really sorry I didn't, now. I think you’ll like the second one better, too. Please, just don’t be too angry.”

Erik gave her a sympathetic expression and grinned. “That’s fine, it’s your day. You should have the dress you want. I want you,” he said, gently taking her long locks and putting them behind her shoulders, “to feel like a queen on our wedding day.”

She placed a hand on his chest. “You’re the one paying for this wedding, for which I thank you.”

“Your parents are retired and are of modest means. I've got it, I've always had it, it’s my pleasure to pay for our wedding.”

      “I just didn't want you to think I was the type who would run through your bank account, willy-nilly.”

“I know. Don’t give it another thought.” Leaning into her Erik gave her a gentle kiss. Then Kaitlyn turned to go back downstairs.

Glancing back at Erik, her eyes twinkling, she said, “How’s the house coming along? I know it’s been raining a lot. Are they still on schedule?”

“I’ll call the Contractor and find out. I knew there was a reason behind why I’m never thrilled when it rains.”

Chapter Sixteen: Meeting the Parents

Traffic wasn't so light, to Erik’s chagrin. He stayed in the tub relaxing longer than he meant to, but then again he wasn't aware that Lavender soaks were good to help a Sim sleep. He drifted off and only came awake after his head went under. Grabbing a towel, he raced to dry off, dress and try to squeeze some of the water from his hair. He must smell really nice, too.

Taking the steps two at a time, he found Kaitlyn out in the foyer, his coat wrapped over her arm. “Here, it’s cold out there … what have you done to your hair?”

Unconsciously, Erik reached to smooth it, but it was no use. There was something in the soaks he used that made it almost stiff. Had he realized it was going to dry that way, he would have shampooed it quickly. 

“No need to be nervous. I promise they won’t bite. They may give you the third degree, but they won’t bite.”

Erik nodded, mutely. “Um-hum. Good. I like family, family is good.”

Kaitlyn brought the car to a halt in the driveway of a really cute, Victorian styled two-story house. “This is it,” she said. Erik got out of the passenger side and walked around to open Kaitlyn’s door for her. He could almost feel the eyes of her parents and brother on him viewing the couple from the front windows as they were. The moment he looked up he could see movement, Sims stepping back into the interior of the livingroom. He smiled to himself. They may be Kaitlyn’s family, but they were just Sims, after all. As curious about him, no doubt, as he was of them.

“We’re here,” Kaitlyn called out as she pushed open the front door. “Sorry, we’re late. You should see the traffic out there!”

“Ah, this must be your young fellow,” Chandler Nye said, reaching forward with his hand ready to shake Erik’s. “You look kinda familiar. Don’t know where I've seen you from.”

“Probably the restaurant, Chan,” Roxanne Nye said. They used to own a restaurant, both of them being chefs. But, they were now retired.

“Mom, Dad, this is Erik Cantrell, the Sim I've been dating all of this time,” she cast Erik a sly smile and continued, “The Sim I’m going to marry,” she held out her left hand so they could take a look at the 2-carat Amethyst.

“Hey, how come it’s not a diamond,” Russell Nye chided. “Too cheap?”

“Russell” Roxanne scolded. “Mind your manners. It’s a beautiful ring.”

Erik took a deep breath and let it out slowly. “Kaitie’s favorite gemstone is the Amethyst. I thought it might be nice to be a bit different. Everysim gets diamonds. And, in my experience diamonds aren't so lucky.”

Chandler suddenly clapped his hands together. “Now I know where I seen ya. You’re that local Rock Star. When Kaitlyn told us she was dating a musician, I thought you was one of those rough and tumble sorts who wore ragged jeans, lots of heavy chains, earrings, tattoos. Up all night partying, juicing it up and destroying your hotel room. But, I can see you’re not one of those at all. You’re finely dressed, clean-shaven, and no earrings.”  Chandler leaned closer to Erik, “Got any tattoos anywhere?”

“No, Sir. And I bathe regularly.”

“And he smells good, too.”

“Dad, Erik is very successful. He plays concerts all over to packed houses. His fans adore him. Some of them go nuts.”

“Erik? Your name is Erik?” Roxanne got a curious look on her face as the information sunk in. “You’re Erik Cantrell.” Then she let out quite a squeal, running her hands through her hair, dancing on her feet. Erik had seen it all before. Apparently, his would-be mother-in-law was a fan. Or just the fact that he was famous sent her into a total tailspin. 

“Oh-ho-ho-ho, oh, my! Oh, my! A Global Superstar in my very own living room! Wait until my Bridge Club hears this. Oh, and you’re so good looking, too. So very hot …” Then the Elder made a growling noise as she curled her fingers, raking the air at him. “Rahr,” she growled again. And then she was twisting and swinging her hips from side-to-side, outright flirting with him.

Erik was blushing. He glanced at Kaitlyn who gave him an odd expression. Chandler gave him the evil eye and Russell was busying boring a hole into Erik’s brain. Kaitlyn jumped up from her seat on the couch.

“Mother, what are you doing? I just told you he’s the Sim I’m going to marry. Stop it, stop it right now. I don’t care how famous he is, he’s not up for grabs! And neither are you.”

Erik smiled mildly at Roxanne, moved a shoulder ever so slightly toward her, and next thing he knew, Roxanne was face down at his feet. Worked like a charm. He was often causing his fans to swoon. He just didn't understand what it was about his smile or a movement of his shoulder that caused them to lose consciousness, but it did. A lot. At least the woman was no longer making a fool of herself, acting like an unrestrained teenager. He hoped she was uninjured by the fall.

He reached down and called out, placing a dubious hand on her shoulder. “Mrs. Nye, Mrs. Nye. Are you all right? Mrs. Nye?”

“Here, son, let me. Russell, grab your mother’s feet and help me carry her into the bedroom. I think it’s best she lay down for a bit. Too much excitement, I’m afraid.”

“Is she going to be all right?” Erik said, gazing at Kaitlyn.

“We’ll talk once we get home.”

Chapter Fifteen: Deja Vu?

 

Erik was in the zone, singing his heart out when it happened. He was booked at the Rock N Roll Concert Hall here in Windenburg, not too far from Grayson Castle, which was good. The weather was up and down, schizophrenic, as far as he was concerned. Spring had arrived but it was still trying to find itself, torn between constant rainstorms with some thunder and lightning thrown in for good measure. Sometimes it was hot and other times still cold. No wonder the home thermostat was still on. As Erik finished the song, he glanced out at the audience … that seemed to have disappeared. Talk about a blow to his Ego. Had he lost his touch?

Then he became aware of the ruckus on the mezzanine level of the concert hall, near the bar. Who had overindulged in the juice? Leaving the stage, he slowly walked down the narrow corridor to have a better look. Aanya Kumar, the Mixologist on duty, wasn't tending the bar. Odd. He saw her there as he came in, earlier and greeted her in passing.

       “Aanya, how’s it going?” Erik smiled.

“Fantastic, I just got a raise. The only thing that makes it better is knowing you’re playing here tonight. I’m so excited!”

“Thank you. You know you’re one of my   most … devoted fans,” Erik said, carefully selecting his words. He almost suggested she was one of his biggest fans, but that would have been hurtful. Aanya was a big Sim. And he noted, sensitive to her weight issues. 

That was the last thing he ever said to her. Now, staring down at her lifeless body, he was stunned. What had happened, he wondered. He was never aware of any health issues, not that they ever got close enough to divulge such private matters. True, she was an Elder, so perhaps … How was it possible to be fine one moment and gone the next? He certainly never heard any shots fired, so he quickly ruled out robbery.

Out of the corner of his eye, he saw Grimmie advancing. Oh, no, he thought. He was going to have to plead with the entity of death. Pleading never got him anywhere three times before. Instead, Erik drew the conclusion he was going to have to demand Aanya be spared this untimely fate. Walking beside the life form of doom, Erik could feel chills running up and down his spine. He always thought it was an Angel of Death that met people. This creature shook him to his core.

When the two stood over the body, Erik turned to the Thing, “I demand you spare Aanya Kumar. Her best day can’t be her last day. Let her go and restore her,” he said, wagging his finger at the Dark Being, to no avail. Sadly, barely holding back the tears, Erik turned and walked back to the stage. On his way he pulled out his cell phone and called the authorities, wondering what they would think of his being present at the loss of another Sims’ life.

Once again, he stood before the microphone. He still had the rest of the show to do, having only played for less than an hour. But, he just couldn't do it. Aanya was his friend. This was a tragedy. Erik deemed it disrespectful to carry on in a joyful way at this time. Tapping the microphone with his finger to make certain it was still on, he leaned into it and announced, “Due to the tragic incident, I’m calling the show off for tonight. Please forgive me. You can request a Rain Check from the ticketing service. Goodnight, Everybody and thank you for being here.”

With that he left the venue. By the time he got home again, he found his sister awaiting him just outside of the castle gates.

     “Erik, how are you doing?” she asked hugging him hard.

Erik, knowing his sister had a Sense of things, refrained from the obvious question and just hugged her back. “I’m doing,” he murmured.

“I’m so sorry. I don’t know why this keeps happening to you.”

“I don’t know either. Do you suppose someone is trying to get my attention? Am I not living in a wholesome enough way?”

“Before you ask,” she deftly cut him off. “Yes, bad things happen to good Sims. But, the Deity can use such incidents to create good from the bad. You just have to know that, Erik.”

“Thanks, Sis. Deep down inside I do know that. But, it still hurts during the moment of bad. Goodnight. I’m suddenly very exhausted.”

 “Erik,” the Paparazzi who had all but taken up residence at the cliff’s edge came forward, thrusting a photograph of Erik at him. “Sign, this, please.” 

Erik shook his head, “Sorry, this just isn't the right time. A friend of mine has just passed away.” 

“Oh, what friend? C’mon, you can’t just give a partial scoop …” 

Erik nodded his head as he walked up the stone path to the front door. “Wanna bet?” he winked. “I believe, I just did.”

When Erik opened his eyes it was early afternoon. He pulled out of bed and made his way down those three long sets of stone steps to the kitchen.

“Hey, sleepyhead,” Kaitlyn said, “that must have been one long concert. When did you get in?”

“Fairly early, actually. Aanya Kumar died.”

“Aanya, where, when?”

“Right there at the concert hall, during one of my first sets.”

“Oh, how awful.”

“Yeah. Sims said she was busy making drinks one moment, and then stepped in front of the bar to get a better look at the stage and then keeled over.” Erik shuddered. “Must be my fault. I’m just too hot or something. Help me out, here.”

“That you are, but trust me, it’s not you, silly,” Kaitlyn stabbed at the omelet she was busy eating. “They said on the news there doesn't appear to be any foul play, so they've ruled out robbery. Nor are they convinced it was simply old age. The Coroner has called for an autopsy, but the local M.D. they had on the program suggested it was either a stroke or a massive heart-attack.”

“Wow.”

“You okay, you’re looking a bit peaked. I've never seen you look so pale. You did remember we’re going to my parents’ house this afternoon, right? Don’t you dare use this as an excuse to get out of it. They’re really very nice, I think you’ll like them.”

“Yeah, give me a minute. I’ll be ready. I’ll just go take a bath with soaks for a few …” Seeing the look on her face, he quickly said,  “a bit. What time do we have to be there again?”

“We’re supposed to be there by three, but it’s all the way over in Brindleton Bay, so hurry.”

Chapter Fourteen: When Emotions Run High

Spending time with Kaitlyn, the days slipped by until Erik realized tonight was his Concert Event at the Ruins. Nervous, for some strange reason, he took an extra long shower, shaved his face carefully and then took out his suits he generally wore for his concerts. None of them seemed quite right. The weather report was bleak. Cold, followed by more cold. Normally, he liked to plan ahead, but this time he decided to just wing it. This was Kaitlyn’s influence on him, he realized. She could be so carefree at times. Unless a microphone was thrust into her face, he smiled. She did just fine at her public karaoke debut, despite her trepidation. Erik really had pulled a prank on her, but she rose above it and surprised him mightily. Unshakably calm. He liked that about her.

Brianna ran around getting her three toddlers fed, bathed and otherwise ready for the sitter. She and her husband along with Kaitlyn were VIPs. The rest of his family, parents and siblings plus his two sisters-in-law were expected there, too. It was a big night. Almost as big as his first concert. He felt strange having not done a sound-check, but decided not to be nit-picky about it.

Finally, the hour had come. The four of them piled into the limo to head over to the Ancient Ruins. Erik was curious as to just how a concert could be staged there and was anxious to see the set-up. He was very pleased with what he saw. It was truly an intimate arrangement. His microphone/amplifier combination was resting on a weather-resistant carpet so there would be no risk of a shock, should the weather turn wet on them. Stage lights were placed around the perimeter. His light oracles were also there. He enjoyed the light show they gave off.

Decorative cement benches formed a half-circle.

The weather Sim hadn't lied, Erik discovered as soon as he got to the site. He wore his thick ski-jacket and knit cap and gloves. He went to remove the jacket, unzipping it but quickly changed his mind. There was a light but cold breeze coming off of the ocean. Wouldn't do for him to try to sing through chattering teeth. He left his outerwear in place.

Pretty soon, his VIPs arrived. After he checked in with the SimsRock-Music Booking Company, ‘clocking in’ as it were, Erik stood before the microphone. He gazed around at all the people, family and friends mostly. Then he saw Kaitlyn. She looked especially lovely tonight. Clearing his throat briefly, he said, “Welcome tonight. I’m so very glad you came out here in this cold to see me. This type of concert is new to me, but we’ll discover together if it’s workable. Again, thank you, I appreciate you’re having come. Let’s get started!”

With a flip of a switch on the unit, Erik belted out song after song after song. Pretty soon the makeshift stadium filled to capacity as more Sims flooded the small area. The Paparazzi was there, too. Odd, how quickly word spread among them. He’d only invited one as a VIP. But, they were something he was used to. Familiar. It wasn't long before Erik felt normal again. As if he’d been released from his self-inflicted prison. This was right. This is what he was meant to do. Kaitlyn had called it correctly. He needed to share this God-given talent with others.

Just after his first set, a Paparazzi called out for an exclusive interview. Erik grinned, nodded and stood there before the entire audience answering her questions. Amused that she called it exclusive when there were several Sims in on the content of discourse. No matter. He finished the conversation and began another set. The fans were appreciative, Erik was on a natural high from the experience. There was just something about filling one’s lungs with cold salt air that left him inspired.

Before the night was over, he called Kaitlyn over to him. “Are you ready for this?” he asked.

“Ready for what?” she said, dubious.

“Well, you didn't think karaoke was your only calling, did you? This is your public debut.” He winked.

“Not funny, Mister.”

“Not meant to be, Miss. Don’t worry, I’ll cover for you.”

“I know, I know I’m singing in the shower.”

“If we don’t start singing and wrapping this up we may well be singing in a shower.”

Just after midnight the concert came to an end. Erik did quite a few encores. He and Kaitlyn did an encore together, as well. They arrived back at Grayson Castle. The night air was crisp. Instead of heading inside immediately, as Brianna did to check on her children, Erik, Kaitlyn and Spock hung around just outside of the gate. Again, Erik didn't wish for the evening to end. He felt relieved. He felt free. Renewed. 

Holding onto Kaitlyn’s hand, he got down on a knee. Glancing at his brother-in-law, Spock gave Erik a look of caution. Erik dug in his outer coat pocket. Finding it, he held up the two-carat Amethyst, it’s light lilac color glistening in the starlight. “Kaitie,” he began. “You mean the world to me. I’m happy being, just knowing you’re here. You’re my best friend. Before I met you I didn't even understand what love is. But you have shown me what I felt for others wasn't really love at all. And I know that I truly love you.  I would be honored and proud if you would consent to be my wife.”

Kaitlyn took the ring he held out to her and slipped it onto her left ring finger and then held her hand up to watch it sparkle and shine. “Erik, I love you, too. I want nothing more than to spend the rest of my life with you. I thought you’d never ask.”

“So … I take that to be a yes?”
“Yes!” With that she jumped into his arms. Spock patted Erik on the shoulder as he made his way inside the gate.
“I hope this goes better than the last time,” Spock murmured.