Chapter Eighteen

I woke before Lore did today, and decided to while away some time digging in the dirt. She found two treasure chests and two maps; I found three maps and a little Tiki idol. Something tells me we’ll need some shelves to put some of these ornaments, like that blue vase I brought with me. It would look better there than on the desk.

We may be old timers now, but that doesn’t stop us having some close time together. Lore’s love of sunbathing paid off too; I wondered how she’d look with a tan.

The triplets grew from kittens to cats today. We’d been wondering whether to keep Oceana…

Ariel…

…or Aquarius. At least this time it’s easy to tell the cats apart, even though Oceana and Aquarius look very similar. He has a thicker coat, and Oceana has a different eye colour.

All three of them are adorable, though. It was only a phone call from a certain young man that decided the matter in the end.

He was very insistent that we kept Aquarius. I had noticed the amount of time he’d spent with him during his teenage years, and Dylan has a way of making it very hard to say no to him.

Believe it or not, I really hate this part. You can’t not get attached to them all, even though you know you have to give some of them away. What I can suggest though, is that Darya takes them in when she leaves. I’m sure she’ll give them a good home, whether or not she stays with Steve.

With the five cats reduced to three, and the twins now away at University, things had quietened down considerably. We had some time to ourselves – a lot of time, and it got me in the mood for a little chat.

“So,” I began, “Any idea what you’d like to do, now we’re alone again?”

“Yes,” I replied, a smile slowly spreading across my lips as I realised my learning wasn’t quite over, “I’d like to see more of this world. I came to learn more about it, but I’ve heard there’s much still yet to see.”

I grinned in reply as I slapped her leg.

“I was hoping you’d say that,” I smiled, “Well, I’ve found these maps, and it’d be a shame to let them go to waste.”

A new found excitement welled within at the prospect as we began to make plans.

“I’ve been thinking, in fact,” I said, “We could do with buying a holiday home somewhere. It’d be nice for the twins to have a proper honeymoon if they get lucky enough.”

I frowned in puzzlement as I turned back to him. With all I’d learnt through the years, it became apparent that I’d missed one or two details.

“What’s a honeymoon?” I asked.

I smiled sadly as the one regret in my life began to rear its head.

“Something we couldn’t manage at the time,” I began carefully, “It’s a traditional holiday for newly-weds. We can certainly afford to treat them, make sure they don’t miss out like we did.”

“That’s a very nice idea,” I smiled, “Maybe we can visit the different areas first, find out which would be the better spot.”

“Now that’s a good idea,” I smiled. As we rose from our seats, I scooped her into my arms as we finalised the little details.

“Have I told you lately that I love you?”

I chuckled into his ear as he pulled me closer.

“Have I told you lately that I love you too?” I grinned in reply.

Raquel has made a habit of inviting herself inside lately. I’m not sure why… although I have the funny feeling it involves a cat called Pisces. I knew I’d forgotten something…

I felt I needed a change of clothes, and thought to buy some more suitable attire for our holiday. Teddy made very subtle hints about sleeping under the stars, bringing up the time I had to sleep in a tent because I couldn’t afford a bed. I did warn him that one didn’t sleep too well in a tent, although I did admit that the experience itself was very pleasant, and worth repeating on the basis that, this time, I had a choice. So we booked a mountain holiday and chose to stay at a campsite.

When I returned from the shops, I called the adoption service so I could deliver my promise to Raquel, and hand over Pisces to her. She and her new cat remained in the house for a while, and on noting the shops were still open, all this talk of cats reminded me of one more thing I needed to do.

Namely buy Aquarius a mate. I chose a Ragdoll I named Amphitrite, after the sea goddess and consort of Poseidon. I learned well of my mistake with Hydra – I will never name a cat after a fierce creature ever again.

Amphi really is a darling, and her laid back manner makes a refreshing change from the hyperactive cats darting about the house. She even gets on well with strange animals – that has to be a good sign.

With everything now taken care of, it was time for us to leave. My lip curled in disdain at the thought of leaving our house in the care of that nanny, but pets are easier to look after than children. Although I hear there’s an intelligent creature in the mountains that is very friendly, and is even open to new surroundings like I was. It would be wonderful to meet with someone else in the same position I started in, and if he wishes to come back with us, so much the better. Since this is but the first of our travels, I would feel far happier letting him stay with the cats next time.

Chapter Seventeen

I might’ve known that was why Darya had such a problem with her outfit. Admittedly it does suit her though. I was just glad to get some proper shoes on my feet and slip into some denim.

I chose a degree in maths, and was met with my first paper. I had barely finished before the phone rang; I nearly jumped out of my chair in anticipation as I knew exactly who it would be. Sure enough, Mum called with their verdict – it was like being back at school and hoping to be picked for the football team, although now it was worse as there was much more at stake.

I squealed in delight when she said they’d picked me! Everyone else was in bed, so I had to hope neither phone nor excited eighteen year old woke them, but I couldn’t help myself! If I had problems sleeping before, there was no chance for me now, I was so happy!

My mouth fell open on the sight of Jackie the next day. She’d fancied a change too, and even in her pyjamas she looked amazing! Not that she needed make-up, but what a difference it made. What with getting to spend some quality time with my parents once we leave, and now with this lovely lady in my life, things really couldn’t get any better. Okay, we’re not officially an item yet, but thankfully I know it’s just a matter of time.

Darya chose to study biology, and got to work on her own paper this morning while I served breakfast. I can understand why Mum likes it so much; in fact she’s been passing on some tasty sounding recipes. I’m looking forward to trying them out, and since I’ve been reading up on cooking already, I can be safe in the knowledge that I won’t poison anybody.

It seems it’s not just Darya and I who enjoy a quiet game of chess. In fact it’s got to the point where we have to bag it before anyone else does. It’s great to challenge someone else though, even with my sister finally playing fair.

Darya moans about the people who keep barging into our house. Although I agree that some, like that coach guy, are definitely unwelcome, I live in hope that they won’t all be that bad. That guy dressed as a llama drove her crackers when he tore into our domain, even though he’s clearly a sports nut like she is.

It did get a little tiresome when he kept chanting the same thing over and over. He kept running through the house looking for an audience, even when it was time for dinner. I just shrugged as I worked, seeing it as a chance to try out Mum’s prawns on a wider audience.

Just like her though, my first attempt reduced them to charcoal. With a guest in the house too; yeah, that was pretty humiliating.

He was good with it though. You could still taste the fish under the overly crispy outer layer, that was the important thing. We ended up in quite a nice chat over dinner while the others were at lectures.

He may have been loud and eager for attention, but he was also likeable and easy to talk to. For someone as quiet as me that has to be a good thing; it’s frustrating not being able to strike up a conversation. I’m hoping this spell at Uni will be able to bring me out of my shell a little, but it’s not easy going.

I finally got a chance to tell Jackie how great she looks tonight. She seems just as modest as me on that front – maybe we can bring out each other. I know one thing for sure though; I’m growing increasingly tired of being asked if I’m meant to have brown or black hair. Time to fix that, I think.

That’s better! Pretty stupid to have to dye your hair the colour you were meant to be born with, but that’s how it goes I guess. I wonder what Mum and Dad are up to these days…

Chapter Sixteen

As told by Darya and Dylan Paul

I have to admit, I’m getting a little nervous. I’ve been getting on really well with Steve, and we’ve got pretty close, but I have no idea about this romance thing. Mum passed on some advice she got from a friend of hers; I felt pretty stupid trying it out, but if it worked for her it can work for me!

I went bright red when Dad told me Jackie really liked me. He seemed very keen to play matchmaker, and suggested I give her a call. I don’t think he realises I don’t know her that well, although that’s easily fixed.

Actually, now I think about it – she is a nice girl! I told her I was going to Uni soon, and when she said she was too, my heart skipped a beat. I really hope something can develop now, especially with an extra chance to know her properly, in person rather than over the phone.

In the meantime, things still need fixing. I smiled expectantly when Mum told me – yet again – to be careful I didn’t get fried. I just turned to her with a reassuring grin, and she just smiled and went on her way. I haven’t been bitten yet by an angry piece of machinery, and I don’t intend to start now.

Poseidon died today. His now orphaned son was crying his head off, which despite them just being animals, got to me a little. It just made me realise, at some point I’ll have to face this with my own parents. I’m not sure how I feel about that if I’m honest. Death comes to us all eventually, but it doesn’t make it any easier to deal with when you’re the one left behind – I only had to watch the way Neptune was yowling to see that.

Cliché maybe, but life still goes on. Fantasia needed to learn to shake a paw, and both Dylan and I were hoping for her to get promoted. Knowing where Dylan most likely was, it was down to me to teach her.

All I wanted to do was practice at the chessboard, and I ended up maxing my logic! Can’t be bad, especially given that Darya hogged the block toy when we were little – I knew I’d catch up eventually.

I’ll freely admit I go all mushy over kittens. They’re just so cute! I’m getting on pretty well with Aquarius already. I do hope I can come back here when the time comes; I’d love to raise some kittens myself. That and Dad’s drafting table is looking very nice…

If he can max out his creativity on that thing, surely I can too. I’d love for him to be able to show me the ropes.

Mum’s friend Raquel turned up just tonight. We had quite an insightful chat, when she’d stopped admiring my features that is. I have to admit it’s flattering, but come on, looks aren’t everything! I hope people realise that I’m just as nice on the inside as I plainly am outside.

Later on the taxi arrived to take us away to start a new life at Uni. Can’t wait to get started!

Adios folks! I know who’s gonna be waiting there for me, can’t wait to see him again! Hopefully I’ll get a better outfit too.

Then again… oh well, at least it’s not a kimono this time. Get what Dylan ended up with though; he looks like a tourist! And what’s with the footwear? Who wears socks with their sandals?!

Steve seems like a pretty cool guy. I kept a watchful eye on my sister though, when she started playing punch-ups with Jackie. Thankfully she didn’t smack her like she did Dad – he must have really made a difference.

I felt so happy when Jackie made a move. I would have done it myself, but I was a little nervous – she’s really blossomed. Something of a hedonist, which I don’t mind too much – we can’t all be the intense type. She’s lovely though, and to think something is starting to happen now just makes me so happy.

Steve confessed that he’d like a family some day; which is cool, although I’m not sure how I feel about that for now. So long as he doesn’t push too far too soon, we’ll be fine. He’s incredibly shy though, more than Dylan and me. I noticed to my delight that he’s also a neat-freak; that’s one more worry off my mind.

In the meantime though, after some militant goon dressed in sportswear insisted we work out, and after choosing our courses, I just had to drag Dylan out to the shops, for both our sakes.

I couldn’t agree fast enough; she didn’t end up too bad with that suit outfit, but I got sick of looking like a tourist when I’m not one. As for the sandals – eeeww! I didn’t have a problem with my image until then, but thinking about it, my hair’s starting to bug me. Not the style but the colour; you may be able to tell from my eyebrows, but it’s meant to be black. How it turned out a funny brown colour is beyond me, but it needs fixing at some point. In the meantime we both have more pressing concerns; I hear Mum and Dad have decided which of us will go back to them after Uni. Just the wondering is driving me crazy, although the comfort is that they had a hard time choosing. It doesn’t stop the churning in my stomach though…

Chapter Fifteen

It had to happen sooner or later. The minute Teddy mentioned ghosts back in the day, and now with our first death in the family, I should have expected something like this at some point.

It looks like Teddy may get his wish after all. Speaking of which, even though I’m now older, he is still as affectionate as ever – not that he has much longer to go before he ages too.

After that manic episode when the twins were little, the pace has slowed considerably. We have more time to spend together, and still enjoy a chat on the beach while watching the waves kiss the sand.

I have lived so long already, and now my mortality is catching up with me, I can honestly say I have no regrets. The best thing I could have done was leave the sea; I have learned so much since living here among humans, and even raised two adorable children. I have never felt happier in my life than I do right now; I am more fulfilled now than all those centuries spent in the ocean.

What a way to see your old pet again! Why she had to hiss at me like that I don’t know – shock aside though, that was awesome! I’d always wanted to see something like this; how fascinating!

(We won’t talk about the fact that she didn’t give me the chance to retreat to a bathroom before getting me again…)

I have to admit; I get a little nervous whenever Dylan starts fixing electric items like the computer. Not because I fear he’d break it further, I know he wouldn’t, but I’ve heard that people can get electrocuted while they work. Whenever I voice my concerns though, he just flashes me that big grin of his and promises me he’ll be fine – and he always is. I do admire the way he works so professionally with the machines I have always wrestled with.

He always finds the time to play with us, too. I certainly wouldn’t dream of favouring one over the other, although admittedly, when faced with the younger version of someone you’ve always been so fond of, it is very hard to not do so.

Darya has endearing qualities of her own. She is very active, and loves to burn off her surplus energy on the football set she bought herself. Sometimes she plays alone, other times she invites her brother to join her. It is so nice to see them get on so well…

… even when she decides she’d rather noogie him instead. He’s a good boy though, and puts up with it.

Dylan: Ow! Knock it off! What’d I do this time, apart from be in the wrong place?

Darya: Oh nothing, I just felt like it.

Dylan: When don’t you?!

My time finally came today. Time to retire, kick back and enjoy the golden years with my darling wife. Oh, and something else I’ve been meaning to do for a while:

“Honestly, it pays to be nicer,” I explained, “How do you expect to stay in a relationship or make friends if you’re mean to everyone?”

To my relief, she admitted I had a point. Hopefully she’ll be better with Dylan from now on.

I got so lost in a loving moment with Lore, I hadn’t noticed my old friend Jackie had been brought home again.

“It’s cool, don’t mind me!” she grinned, “I was looking for Dylan, actually…”

“Oh, really?” I grinned, before looking around. I found him eventually, in his favourite spot – and a fond smile crept upon my face when I noticed he had company.

Given how quiet we both are, it was great to see him making friends. I never got the young man’s name, but he was someone else brought home from school.

We heard the sound of more tiny feet the next day – and I got a fright on seeing just how many more there were. Fantasia had given birth to triplets; two girls I named Oceana and Ariel, the latter in honour of their late grandmother, and a boy I named Aquarius. Oceana is the one who seems to have a sheen to her coat, rather than the fluffy appearance of the others – and once again, they’re all exactly the same in terms of personality. With the unusual appearance of their mother, I can’t help but wonder how they will turn out as they mature, but in the meantime we will need to reserve judgment on which one to keep.

I’m more concerned with another problem; which of the twins will be staying with us when they finish University? It’s not that long now until they leave, and they both seem very keen on the proposition we had for them. We’ve both been agonising for a while over this dilemma, and since they both wish to return it’s down to us to choose one. It may have to depend on the partner they end up with at this rate.