Checking Cupid’s Corner first thing in the morning has become a habit. I updated my profile to search for adult women aged 36 and up, but the selection in that age range isn’t great. I’m not saying there’s anything wrong with the women; it’s just that there aren’t many to choose from. Finding a companion after being married to someone as beautiful as Maia is going to be tough. Whoever I meet will have to be truly special. There has to be a better way to connect with quality women.
I close the app and head into my office to respond to comments on my latest SimTube video. The feedback follows a familiar pattern: one or two people criticize everything I say, while others—mostly women, and even a few guys—leave comments just to flirt. But one comment stands out. It’s from a regular viewer who says they saw my profile on Cupid’s Corner.
@CuteNPerky – 1d ago
Saw your profile on CC. Ever consider auditioning for ‘Blow Out the Candle or Find Love’? You’d be a perfect fit.
I’ve never heard of this, so I click the link and land on the channel of a popular SimTuber named Paris Bell, who has even more followers than I do. I pick an episode and start watching. A group of guys stand in a line, each with a lit candle in front of them. A pretty woman walks out, asks a few questions, and blows out the candle of any guy who doesn’t match what she’s looking for. Seems simple enough, but I’m not sure I’d want to be in a lineup like that.
I click on another episode. This time, the lineup is all women, and a guy comes out to ask the questions. That I could do. It actually seems like an interesting way to meet someone. Should I audition? I’ll have to give it some thought.
I leave my computer behind and head outside for some fresh air and exercise, but the sky is yellow and the air quality is terrible, making me cough. Still, I complete my jog around the lake. I just hope I haven’t damaged my lungs. As I’m heading back home, I receive a text from Maia.
Maia’s Text: Tami is getting ready for prom. She wants you to come over to see her off.
I stare at Maia’s name and picture for a few moments. I haven’t been in her presence since she asked for the divorce. Now she’s inviting me over, and I’m not sure what to do with that. I remind myself that we have a child together, so we’ll always be a part of each other’s lives. But how do I walk back into the home we built together and pretend everything is normal? Either way, I’ll have to be there for Tami, and this whole thing will probably be just as awkward for Maia.
I reenter the house and take my time showering and picking out my clothes for the day. If I have to face Maia again, I want to look my best.
I’ve also decided to audition for the dating show. I might as well. There’s a good chance nothing will come of it, but if not, maybe I can extend the reach of my own SimTube channel. If I can get just a fraction of Paris Bell’s audience, then it’s not a waste of time.
I step in front of my camera and click record.
Wade: *on camera*
Hey there. I’m Wade Banks, but most folks know me as Dub. I’m 42, living in San Sequoia, and I create content for SimTube—mostly vlogging, motivational stuff, how-to’s, and whatever else feels real.
I’m auditioning for Blow Out the Candle or Find Love because, well, I’m recently divorced. That chapter’s closed, but I’m still standing. I’m not looking to rush into anything, but I am open to meeting someone I can build something meaningful with.
I’m not flashy, and I’m definitely not perfect. But I show up, I listen, and I care deeply about the people in my life. If you’re someone who values honesty, connection, a little humor, and a lot of creativity, maybe we’ve got something to talk about.
So yeah, blow out my candle if I’m not your vibe. But if you’re curious, I’m here.
After recording my audition, I edit it, add a few effects, and send it off. Now I just need to hear from the show’s producers to see if I’ve been chosen to appear. I gave it my best shot, and it’s out of my hands.
An hour later, I’m knocking at the door of my former house. It feels strange not just walking in. Maia must have been downstairs already because she opens the door moments later, looking amazing. She’s slimmed down, and her hair is styled the way she used to wear it before we met. I’ve only seen it like that in old photos, but it frames her face just right. My heart crumbles and rattles around in my chest. Can’t we forget everything that’s happened and be us again? I don’t want to start over with someone else when the woman I love is standing right in front of me.
Maia smiles — the same smile that used to warm my mornings, now stirring fragments of memory and regret.
Maia: I’m glad you came.
Wade: Thanks for inviting me.
Maia: It was Tami who… uh, can you believe this time has come? Our little girl is going to prom.
Maia tries to mask her little slip-up, but I hear it loud and clear.
Wade: No, not at all. She’s all grown up. I’m not quite ready.
Maia: Ready or not, the time is now. At least you met the guy and vetted him. Tami says it went well.
Wade: Yeah, he seems cool.
The small talk fades, and I’m left wondering if there’s more I should say. Do I apologize for ruining our relationship? Do I hug her and kiss her cheek? What’s the rule for seeing someone again after they’ve ended things, but you’re still in love with them? I need to get over this. Fast. I’m here for Tami… nothing else.
I follow Maia inside without another word exchanged between us. I guess she doesn’t really know what to say either. I watch her hips and butt sway beneath her dress as she leads me up the stairs. I’m carrying resentment, but the attraction hasn’t faded.
She leads me to the living room, and we sit down. The quiet between us feels loaded, and I’m out of words. I silently pray that Tami doesn’t leave Maia and me alone for too long. Luckily, Maia takes the lead.
Maia: How have you been? I heard about your new business. Congrats.
I’m not sure how to answer that. I’ve been keeping myself busy and distracted — it’s the only reason I haven’t fallen apart. But I can’t say that. I tell her what she probably wants to hear.
Wade: I’m okay. Yeah, the business has been going well. Thanks.
I should ask about her food stand, but I’m feeling spiteful. Just when I decide to ask anyway, Tami enters the room and my breath catches in my throat.
Tami is every bit the princess I’ve always seen her as, dressed in a floor-length cream gown with her hair pulled up into a puff. It’s like I’m seeing her in her wedding dress. The thought brings tears to my eyes. Luckily, Tami softens the moment.
Tambara: Hey Daddy, you’re here! So, how do I look?
I do the corny father thing and start clapping before I can stop myself.
Wade: You look stunning, Princess.
Tambara grins.
Tambara: Thanks, Daddy. Mom and I fell in love with this dress at first sight.
I’m impressed. There’s nothing frugal about this dress. Maia went all out for Tami, and I’m surprised but also glad. Tami’s phone rings. She looks down at it, and her grin broadens before she answers.
Tambara: *on the phone* Hey Enzo! Yeah, it’s the house on the left.
It’s that time. Tami’s date has arrived. I brace myself, but I can feel my jaw involuntarily tighten. This is going to be a long night.
Enzo walks in looking clean and well-dressed. I have to give him that. He even took out the twists; his hair is lined up and neat. Maia insists that they pose for a few pictures. I remember my ma doing the same thing when Perla and I went to prom.
I try to relax and enjoy the moment, but there’s something about the way my daughter is looking at this dude that gives me pause. It’s time to have that talk.
Wade: Enzo, I have one request.
Enzo: Yes, sir?
Wade: Our daughter is precious to us, and we want her returned in the same condition she’s leaving in. You hear me?
Enzo: Yes, sir.
Tambara: Daddy!
To clarify, I continue.
Wade: That means her dress stays on, her hair stays nice and neat, and certain parts of her anatomy are not to be touched.
Tami is staring at me with eyes of death, but I don’t care. I mean what I’ve said. I beckon her to sit down next to me.
Wade: Let me talk to Tami alone for a moment.
Maia takes the cue.
Maia: Enzo, let’s get you something to drink in the kitchen.
Maia leads Enzo away, and Tami settles beside me, clearly wishing she were anywhere else.
Tambara: *pouting* Why are you embarrassing me like this? I shouldn’t have invited you over.
Her words sting, but I know it’s just part of being a rebellious teenager.
Wade: Because it’s my job. If you still want to attend this dance, I need you to listen to me right now.
Tami sighs heavily and looks away, but her head tilts slightly toward me, so I can tell she’s listening.
Wade: I meant what I said. You are precious to us. I want you to have fun tonight, but don’t let the excitement of it make you forget who you are.
Tambara: I won’t forget.
Wade: Good. I trust you, but it’s easy to get swept up in the freedom of prom night. You are a princess, and every prince should have to work hard to earn your love. Enzo seems like a good guy. He’s polite and dresses well, but even he might forget himself tonight. If anything happens that you don’t feel comfortable with, don’t be afraid to let him know. You’ve never failed to stand up for yourself. I’ve always admired that. Make sure this is a night you’ll be proud to remember. Okay?
Tami turns to me, her gray eyes sparkling.
Tambara: I will, Daddy. I promise. And I’m glad you’re here. I know it’s probably not easy to be around Mom right now, but I appreciate it.
Wade: It’s easy when it comes to you. I love you, and I’m glad to share this moment with you and your mother.
Tambara: I love you too, Daddy.
(Generation 4 Chapter Summaries)
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