I wouldn’t say that my life up to now has been boring, but it definitely hasn’t been very exciting. Being raised on a farm is as basic as you can get. Imagine milking cows in this day and age. Aren’t there machines for that? Well, that’s what I grew up doing. But no more – I’m out of here as soon as I can find someplace to be. In fact, I want to be in as many places as I can be. There’s a big world out there, and I want to see it all!
~ Wade
I know I sound unhappy with my life, but that’s not true either. How could I be? I have the best parents in the world. But if wanting a different type of life makes me sound like an asshole, then so be it. People can call it what they want. My parents chose the life they wanted, and now it’s time for me to choose mine. I’m a young adult now with my own thoughts and goals. Isn’t that what it’s all about anyway?
(Wade’s Aspiration: Galactic Privateer/Prepared Voyager (temporary) Traits: Squeamish, Childish, Happy Toddler, Adventurous, Responsible Aspiration Traits: Inspired Explorer, Cold Acclimation)
Dad is downstairs cooking when I join him in the kitchen. He’s a fantastic cook. I’ve dabbled with cooking, but if I have plans to live on my own soon, I figure I’d better start learning what he knows while I have time.
Wade: So, Dad, what are you seasoning the eggs with?
Kai: A dash of salt and a bit of pepper.
Wade: And that’s all you need?
Dad seems pleased that I’m asking him about cooking. I don’t know why he always gets these shocked looks on his face when I ask him about basic life skills. I made dinner one time, and he damn near passed out. You know, wtf? Does he think I’m just clueless or something?
Kai: Basically, but if you want to get fancy, add a little cayenne pepper or some paprika.
Wade: Okay, I’ll keep that in mind.
Kai: *smirk* You’re interested in cooking?
See what I’m saying? There it is again – that look. I hate that crap.
Wade: Yeah, Dad. If I want to eat, I need to cook. Right?
Now mind you, I’d like to elevate the things I eat…maybe go the more – gourmet route, but cooking is cooking, and I’m interested. And it’s not just because I read somewhere that women love men who cook. Okay, I can’t lie – that’s part of my motivation. Can you imagine these eyes, this smile – in an apron, by the stove? It sounds like I couldn’t lose.
Kai: You’re right, and feel free to take over the cooking duties whenever you want.
No thanks. There are too many people in this house.
Speaking of too many people, Mase comes moping down the stairs in a way only he knows how. It’s like his aesthetic. I get that he’s still sad about Gran Jalisa’s passing. I am too, but it wasn’t exactly unexpected. She was very old, and like Dad told us a long time ago – old people die.
But then again, maybe that’s not all that’s upsetting him. I consider what Dad told me last night when I returned from my date with Perla. He said that Mase has a thing for Perla. I guess I shouldn’t have been surprised. Mase and Perla have been friends for a while. My bad for not seeing that it could have been more than that for Mase. Maybe our upcoming trip will help my little bro get over it.
Speaking of my date, I instantly feel bad when Ma comes down the stairs. She wasn’t too happy when I told her I was going out last night. We had just gotten the news of Gran Jalisa’s passing, and I think my going out hurt her. Ma’s big into family, so there’s no doubt she wanted us all to be together. Man, I hate hurting Ma’s feelings. She has these soft grey eyes that turn into dark storm clouds when upset. It doesn’t happen often, but you know you messed up when she rains those clouds on you. I’ll have to make it up to her.
Wade: Ma, I’m sorry for what I did yesterday. I didn’t mean to disappoint you and hurt your feelings.
Melisa: Already forgotten, but thank you for the apology.
That’s another thing; Ma doesn’t stay mad for very long. Her eyes soften into the pretty grey that I love, and she steps over and kisses me on the cheek.
Melisa: Happy Birthday! You changed your hair! My baby is all grown up now – and so handsome.
Wade: Thanks, ma.
I pull out my phone.
Wade: Want to take a birthday selfie with me?
Melisa: I’m sure you already took a million but of course!
She knows me so well. We pose and snap a picture. This is the first picture I’ll frame when I get my own house.
Wade: My Ma – the most beautiful woman in the world!
Melisa: Aww, thanks, Dubby!
And the only person who can get away with calling me Dubby.
Dad interrupts me trying to make up for being an ass to Ma yesterday by ringing a dinner bell super loud.
Kai: *equally loud voice* Breakfast is served!
Wade: Really, Dad? We’re all standing right here.
Kai: Not all of you. Where’s Dray?
That’s right – Dray. I almost forgot that today is his birthday too.
Ma, Dad, Mase, and I grab a serving of Dad’s delicious breakfast. We’re sitting down, about to eat, when Dray finally appears. He does not come down the stairs looking like someone celebrating a birthday. He should be happy and smiling; he’s a teen now, which means more freedom. My brothers sure have a way of hoarding bad feelings. Maybe I’m just not sensitive enough. I must have passed my share of touchiness to each of them.
(Drake’s Aspiration: Renaissance Sim / Quick Learner Traits: Adventurous, High Maintenance, High Self-Esteem)
Dray mopes his way to the table and meets our chorus of happy birthdays with a complete lack of enthusiasm.
Drake: Thanks
Kai: You okay?
Drake: Yeah
Kai: You don’t sound okay. Am I missing something?
Drake: It’s just – I was hoping for a birthday party, maybe even a surprise party. There isn’t even a birthday cake.
My Dad always acknowledges other people’s feelings but believe me, there will always be a ‘but’ at the end.
Kai: It’s not a party, and I made a big breakfast instead of a cake – but your brother has a surprise for you. I’m sure you’ll agree – it’s better than a party.
Dad and Mase get up from the table to clean their dishes, leaving it up to me to deal with Dray and his bad mood.
Wade: Yeah, you, Mase, and I are taking a trip together tomorrow. We’re going to Batuu!
That seems to lift Dray’s mood. He seems to crave adventure as much as I do.
Drake: We are?
Wade: Yeah, just the three of us. Surprise!
I continue—
Wade: But we’re only going under one condition.
Drake: What’s that?
Wade: You have to come to the garage and work out with me.
Drake: Why? That has nothing to do with the trip.
Wade: It has everything to do with the trip because there will be ladies to impress in Batuu. So come on – that’s an order from your big brother.
I don’t play the big brother card often, but I like it.
Drake: But I’m looking too good right now. I’m not trying to mess up my outfit.
Wade: Take a few selfies, change, and let’s go.
I lead the way to the garage, but Dray takes his time before following.
One thing I got from my dad is a love of working out. I don’t know if I’ll ever climb Mt. Komo like he did, but I’m sure the things I will do will require a fit body. Dray comes out to join, and I can tell he’s as weak as toilet paper. We have a lot of work to do to get him caught up in his fitness. He’s a Banks Boy, after all. We should be known for looking good.
(Generation 4 Chapter Summaries)
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