Days of the New January 4th, Year 201M2040 BC. BEEP BEEP BEEP “MOVE IT YOU FUCKING DICKS!” One thing I've learned from living in a major metropolitan city for as long as I have, is how to drive a car properly. The fucking gall of some of these hicks. I've driven back and forth from the hotel to St Brachs Hospital multiple times in the past two days alone. I'm getting awfully sick of shitheads cutting me off, or not paying attention at four ways. Inconsiderate was the word tattooed on my brain. Funny, because I've been nothing if not considerate to everyone around me, endlessly, till the end of time, till death does me in, till- I GET FUCKING KILLED IN A CAR ACCIDENT LIKE I JUST DID. I spin the wheel once more as an obvious day-one retard came up from behind my blind spot. Between this and Naomi… Dear Raptor Jesus, don't make me choose. I remember the day we got back in contact. A chance email from a specter from almost 20 years ago. Somehow, she heard through the grapevine I was looking to relocate. She offered to put in a good word for me, which made me feel almost halfway emasculated but hey, anything to get out of the city. She told me about her kids, her husband, everything. The exchanges we had were lopsided, only because I really hadn't worked on the whole "family" thing, as sad as that sounds. I remember, right before I was thrusted into my studies, Anon of all people showed me this website, CafePharma or something, and it was filled with stories of doctor's ruining their home lives with endless extramarital affairs. I think that scared me straight, because I haven't touched a woman… Since High School. Now… A lot has changed, I'll say that. I am a normal person. I am perfectly fine. I do not harm others. I do not desire to harm others. Any crimes I may or may not be guilty of involve only myself. I transgress only against myself. "... But I would FUCKING KILL EVERYONE WHO HAS EVER DRIVEN A CAR!!" I don’t care if they could hear me, I just want this to be over with. NOBODY SHOULD BE IN TRAFFIC FOR TWO FUCKING HOURS WITH NO AIR CONDITIONER!! Later Years of pent up frustration I didn't know I had boiled up over my sides and into my mind as I arrived at my in-laws house. Why they decided to stay here is beyond me. Maybe the recession hit just in time for big life decisions and this is where they ended up. It's not even an awful house. Not as nice as mine, but I'm a respectful doctor… It's in the same neighborhood as my old folks home, so there's familiarity there, but still. Nice little two story. Porch with chairs. It sure was a red building… … Anything I could have thought of to keep my mind off the recent situation, my mind flocked too. When I realized I was sitting in my parked car mumbling to myself, I knew I needed a change. A change of shirt that is. I most definitely smell of shame and an awful amount of sweat. I got out and was met with the blistering summer heat of the Bluff. The glass towers of the city always made it feel hotter than it actually was back home, but the humidity here was unacceptable. How I ever managed back then, I will never know. Funny to think I worked out here at some point and just got used to it. I arrived at the front porch, much worse for wear. My body is daring to sweat again even with this new change of clothes. My pants and undies are a bit soaked but I can’t exactly change them right here. I browse through my backup bag, a bag full of backups. Dad always told me to be prepared for anything, guess his cop training went through my thick head. I browsed through it and was met with a plain black shirt, good enough, Amber won’t mind. She’s not into fashion that much. I put it on… and I’m sweating again. Raptor Jesus help me. I finally approached the door, my approach was cautious. I tried to keep cool, I've been through worse I think to myself. Right now, more than ever, I can surround myself with a loving extended family, away from the petty drama I've surrounded myself with for the past few days. Pure sanctuary. Only problem now is… They locked the fucking door. Turns out my suspicions were right, They left without telling me. That's why I didn't see my sister's car. Damn it. Back to frustration as I knocked on the front door, seeing if maybe Amber was still home. No luck. Okay, back it up. What the hell was Anon thinking when he explicitly invited me over, knowing he would leave his fucking house. Was I early? Did something come up? Either way it's pissing me off. I guess that's not entirely fair… God damn it, it's been a long day. I look at my phone, the time is exactly 19:00 hours. Daylight is dying. For fuck sake… … The sound of the door startled me. In a huff, I started pacing circles around the welcome mat, colored red to match the house. Worn with time, damnit where are they? In the doorway stood my favorite… Only… Niece. Looking as smug as ever. "Kept you waiting, huh?" Amber said with a half cocked smile. Of course, I smiled back. The anger melted away when she dropped her tough girl shit and leaped at me for a hug. Quite the tight hug too. She's gotten big and strong. Hard to believe this is her 18th birthday. I want to believe this was the reason why I was back in my home town in the first place, but that would be a lie. "How has the whole Doctor thing been, unc?" She asked, pulling away from her commanding bear hug. Her putting on a sarcastic tone. "Ah well you know. Plenty of blood and guts. I'm sure you wouldn't want to hear about any of it." I put on one as well. "Awww. But you KNOW that blood and guts are like… My two favorite things to learn about whenever you come over. Your stories are the coolest thing ever!" She said, beaming excitement straight into my skull. So this is a snarking competition then huh? So be it. "I always forget you beg me to keep you updated on the surgeries I undergo." I responded. "You HAVE to know I love the Dino Interest stories you have!" "Sure, and the obituaries that come with them." I deadpanned. "THAT'S the best part!" Amber faked enthusiasm to the point where I thought she actually likes this morbid shit. Oh God. Mental illnesses really are genetic. “Unc, you’re mumbling again.” She muttered. Must be a transferable disease. Curse you, Anon… “Well you too.” I retaliate playfully. “I guess mumbling is a- mental illness- ” She bursted into laughter once she went into the final part. Guess she was trying to joke around when she thought about it. Looks like she lost and I’m the biggest fuckin winner. Her fumbling of the joke was also contagious, I couldn’t help but laugh as well. Albeit the heat and being stuck in traffic from earlier made me feel tired as shit, I noticed there was commotion behind Amber. They didn’t leave home actually, they just already started. “Get inside you big doofus! You’re starting to sweat again.” Amber waved her hands inside. Right. I stepped in with the freshest breeze of AC, Blessing me with reprieve from a long day inside the Nascar™. Inside the House Their home reminded me heavily of mom and pop's. Like mother, like daughter, my wonderful sister kept the modern family living space clean. It made me feel bad for relying on a maid as much as I did. Wow this party is surprisingly small, not a lot of people around. My parties used to be fairly sizable, especially that College Farewell thing. It was a pretty nice party, Food was great, My track team buddies saying goodbye and the day me and Naomi… I shouldn’t focus too much on what happened, only what can happen and what I can do. I really should keep myself busy with literally anything else, I thought to myself as I rounded the corner into the kitchen. “Naser? I-! DUDE!” A dude-esque voice rang out. I look over to my side to see what appears to be a homeless vagrant that escaped Skin Row, What with his clothes and all. “Erm…Are you uhh…” “Oh sorry Naser, lemme just- Ah, there we go.” He corrected himself, straightening his back out to appear more civilized. Clearing his throat so his voice isn’t as coarse, I remember that raspy voice anywhere. Wait? Lucy’s friend?! Reed? Wow he’s worse for wear, time hasn’t been kind to him huh. “Reed? Wow you’re uhh…” “The Richest Raptor in Volcaderra Bluffs? Hell yeah my dude! Just wearing the finest drip for my finest Goddaughter!” He twirls around, showcasing himself like a runway model. Now that I take a closer look…Holy fuck, he is wearing designer Gucci, at my own families get together. You know, this is probably why I didn't really hang out with him all too much back in the day. “Uh, dude you’re whispering stuff, you must’ve gotten it from Anon. I just run my Carfé Business yo! My beezwax has given me this sweet ass honey, all thanks to my plan!” “...What’s a Carfé Business?” Reed then starts slowly zoning out, droning out an “Uhhhhhhhhh” before finally coming to; “I’unno. Presents over there by the way.” Huh…I’m still staring…stop staring damnit. I shake my head and left to my own devices as Reed enjoys the party. He’s probably a credit card scammer, shaking off poor old ladies with dementia for their precious gift cards. The birthday was pretty simple actually, there’s streamers around and some fast food. Aside from that however, it’s fairly modest. Hopefully my console gift is pretty alright. I mean I’m rich now, Why not spend it on rich people stuff? I place the wrapped Pachystation 6 around the small pile of boxes, This’ll surely win 1st place. I even considered buying her games for the thing! Although it is kinda weird there’s only a few games available for the console. “Naser! You made it!” A voice rang out. Anon greets me with a smile as he bumped his fist lightly into my shoulder. It was actually really nice to see him again, even I myself was surprised by the warm and fuzzy feeling in my chest. “Hey! How’ve you been?” I was pretty annoyed at him earlier, but then I realized it was pretty petty and a misunderstanding. “Eh, Been better to say the least.” I cynically toned out. “Oh damn. Anything wrong?” He gestures to me to sit my tired bum on the couch. Wow this is comfy. “Well…” Fuck, I can’t tell him, Naomi made me promise not to tell anyone about what we did. Can’t have her husband find out, Naomi’s daughter as well. Though I have a feeling she knows, and it’s been dreading me everyday afterwards. Melissa was her name, born from a deadbeat parasaur who left both of them. I visited Naomi for the first time in years and we…we did it. And it was fucking great, but I didn’t know Melissa was home either, and neither did Naomi. I snuck out of the house but I saw her sneaking around the kitchen with tears around her eyes. She saw me and most likely heard me…All she did was stare at me, tearing up before I eventually left out of fear. I shouldn’t be scared, guys aren’t supposed to be chicken shit scared. “Naser? Are you there buddy?” Anon snapped his fingers and looked worried. This is a party, I should do party stuff instead of shit like this. I’ll deal with it later. “Let’s just say it’s work stress.” I covertly answered. Anon seems unconvinced at what I said, Oh god does he know? He doesn’t look like he knows but he does offer a face of understanding. This guy has gotten better over the years and man is it terrible doing this to him. I know he’s helping but…I should avoid this for now. I can deal with it later. “Where’s Lucy?” I ask Anon. Changing the subject. “Oh she’s getting Naomi!” He perked up with a smile. Wait hold the fuck up. “N-Naomi?” I stutter out. “Yeah! They made up a while ago and they’re bringing their kid around for Amber’s party. They’ve been pretty good friends actually! She managed to make up for what happened back in highschool.” This was pretty sudden to take in, They’re bringing Naomi? Fuck…. How am I gonna handle this? I didn’t know she was gonna come here! “Didn’t you look at the guestlist?” He gestured to my phone in my pocket. “...There was a guestlist?” I exasperated. “Yeah? Check your messages.” I quickly pulled out my phone…only to forget it was dead. My backup portable charger died too, Need to replace it soon. I slump into my seat deeper, both enjoying the leather and to alleviate my tiredness. “You okay man? I hope the drive here wasn’t too bad.” “No no, It’s fine. I mean the drive was awful, but I’m just kinda shocked they’re friends now. They haven’t exactly had the best relationship back at school.” “Honestly, I’m surprised too. But I’m just glad we’re all doing okay as adults…relatively anyway.” I think to myself as I take in the information, I was glad to make up with Lucy when we were teenagers. We didn’t have the best relationship and I had this guilt of missing out on the good times we could’ve had. But I’m just glad we love each other like family again…Naomi though, It’s still hard to believe after what she did. …Good friends huh? “Wow, mumbling really is a mental illness…” Anon mumbled. “More like a curse.” I whispered to him sarcastically. We just stare at each other after that, before Anon heartily laughs and smacks my back. Wow he’s gotten beefier, I rarely jog ever since my job kept me busy. Lost my abs because of that. “I hope Naomi coming here won’t be a problem, Not sure if you guys made up.” Anon worried. “No…No we’re cool.” I sneakily answered him. He didn’t need to know about what we had. “Right, Glad to hear that.” He smiled. “By the way, I thought this was gonna be a surprise party?” I inquired. “Well it was until my uber autism instincted the plan out loud with Amber listening in. After that we just decided to plan it with her, some stuff was left out and some new stuff was let in. Overall it became better than what Lucy and I did.” “Ah… Wait , Uber-autism?” I asked, looking like an old man who’s out of touch. Anon's eyes rolled with a smirk, his head shook as if saying “Ah, good ol Naser. Ya see, I am well beyond the autism spectrum at this point in my life thus-” “Hiiiiiiiii Mister Mous~” Sera’s hips swayed each step she took forward to Anon’s direction. The flirty tone of voice made me deeply uncomfortable, but to my almost nonsurprise, Anon barely even noticed. Guy just smiled and said hello back. “Sera, are you still doing the photography thing?” Anon asked genuinely. “Hell yeah, and I need subjects. What if~ I studied you for a bit Mister Mous?” Sera asked, with a head full of holy, completely Christian thoughts I hoped. “Yeah why not, Thanks for fixing Lucy’s camera by the way! You’re pretty talented at fixing stuff, how’d you get good at it? Sera was surprised by this, blushing at the compliment. Breaking out of her horny stupor for a moment to explain herself. “O-oh thanks! Stuff gets regularly broken around my family as a whole, and I kinda have to babysit a lot of my cousins and siblings. So I said why not to try and fix things, Dad saw my potential and had me do engineering stuff. Ever since then I’ve had people asking me to fix and make stuff. It’s even got me a scholarship at an engineering college class! After I finish school at Volcano High of course.” She beamed with joy and it was almost infectious; Anon smiled, while I avoid her look because of earlier. “It’s no problem Sera, Just glad to be supporting Reed’s daughters!” Wait. Reed’s daughters?! “Oh yeah! I got married to Trish bro! We got Patty and Sera!” Interspecies relationships are getting more and more common as the generations progress. It’s pretty surprising having co-workers that have herbivore/carnivore parents or human/dino parents. There are stories of mishaps but breakthroughs of compatibility research made crossbreeding much more accessible. I remember writing a college thesis about it, which helped me get my job. I guess I’m seeing the fruits of my work. “Huh, It’s kinda hard to tell since she’s a triceratops.” Reed heard our conversation and stepped in. “Both of em are, But the difference is that Patty has a long and strong tail like me and Sera has…Huh, I forgot what she had. But I'm pretty sure it’s Trish’s smarts!” He zones out before Sera massages Anon’s shoulders, whispering something into his ear that I couldn’t make out. Until I did. “Oh Mister Mous~ I'm ovulating~" I must be seeing things, because I see God’s light fading away from that woman…I should get some water. I’m parched. DING DONG~ Mmm yummy water. I hear my sister and two others at the door. “Anon honey! I brought Naomi and some more food!” My sister’s voice rang out the door. “Aww c’mon lemme help!” Another voice I was unfamiliar with spoke besides Lucy. I don’t recognize it, must be another friend Lucy made. The door opens, revealing my sister, Naomi and another figure carrying large grocery bags. Her face obscured and I don’t think she can see where she’s going either. She didn’t plan this through did she. “Hi everyone!!” Naomi bubbly called out. Even though I semi-regularly meet Naomi, It’s still jarring seeing her chubby. A far cry from her picture perfect hourglass figure from back in highschool, she still maintains her manners however. Not how I remember her in bed though, God, the fat went to all the right places~ Everyone hollered back, while Reed just waved nonchalantly. The nervousness slowly faded, seeing her be happy with everyone else around her, it’s pretty nice actually. Last time we met, I didn’t even know if she was happy at all. “Hey sweetie!” Lucy rang out to Amber. Amber walked over and they both gave each other big hugs, their wings competing against one another until Lucy won with hers enveloping around her daughter. Anon came too and gave her a quick peck on the cheek. “You bought more food?” Anon pointed to the person carrying the bags. “It was actually me! I didn’t wanna come empty handed. Melissa told me how much she loved…what do you call them? Nuggies?” Naomi stepped in. “Hey c’mon! You shouldn’t have! I mean really…There’s too many-” Anon glared at Reed who shrugged and gave a smug rich grin. “Heh- The more the merrier!” Amber joked. “Oh relax! I bought some other stuff as well!” The girl who carried the bags stepped into the kitchen. She's starting to feel familiar… She finally unloads the bags onto the table, huffing out an exhale as she stretches. Then she turned around and saw me, standing frozen in shock with wide eyes. I finally recognize her…Naomi’s daughter…the one who possibly heard me and Naomi doing it…Oh fuck. Last time I saw her, she wore an oversized shirt. Now she’s wearing a lime green sweater, loose enough to reveal her shoulders. Underneath has a black sports bra, her skirt was a plain burgundy that reached into her knees. With sneakers that match her sweater, and red glasses with a black headband. This girl is surprisingly busty and thicc too, but I shouldn’t focus on that right now. This girl might kill me. Melissa bores a hole straight into my skull, anger clearly seething through but not wanting to disrupt Amber’s party. A range of emotions surging through her body and face, her hands balling up in fight or flight mode. I raised my hands in surrender despite not doing anything at the moment, backing away before bumping into Amber. “Oof! Sorry Unc!” Amber waved her hand in apology as she squeezed by. Melissa seemed to snap out of her anger, still clearly affected though. She puts on a face and smiles for Amber, Amber notices however and grabs her shoulder. “Hey babe, you good?” Amber gave a quick loving nuzzle to her snoot. “I-I’m alright…just thought he was someone else.” “Someone bad?” Amber tilted her head. “...You could say that.” Melissa doublespeaked. “Well don’t you worry, Uncle Naser is a nice guy. I talked to you about him before and now’s your chance to meet him in the flesh!” “Let’s hope so.” She croaked. “I know so.” Amber reaffirmed. Planting it with a kiss on her Para GF’s snoot which made Melissa surprised and annoyed but not in a bad way. “I-I told you to not do that!” Is uh… Is that how she is swinging now? “Y-yeah I was gonna tell you but I wasn’t sure how you’d react. I do trust you but the non binary thing with Mom…” “Oh! No, I'm okay with it! The difference between you and your mom is sexuality and identity. Your mom wasn’t really happy being non binary and detransitioned, you however look clearly happy with her. Just treat her alright and you’re good.” “Yeah! I’ll treat ya good~” Amber rizzed at Melissa. Blushing immensely at her ptero eyebrow wiggling. “Stooooooop!” Melissa giggles. “Make me~” Amber’s surprisingly good at flirting as Melissa retreats into her hands for safety against Jack the Rizzer. “Right, well I’m gonna go talk to Naomi. See you guys around.” Melissa seemed to forget about me for a moment before returning back to sadness, she doesn’t bother saying goodbye. Amber notices this and holds her hand. “Hey…I know something’s bothering you. Wanna talk about it?” Melissa nods, Amber sees Lucy talking to Reed and they glance at each other. With only a few facial expressions, Lucy gives a nod and a smile. The two girls head upstairs, disappearing from the party altogether. I can’t tell if these girls are psychic or what, that’s some communication if I’ve ever seen some. “Hey Naser!” Naomi gives me a hug, a tender one at that. Too close for comfort but nobody else seems to notice, I returned the hug back so she wasn’t left hanging. “Hey Naomi.” I sheepishly spout. Trying my best not to sound monotone, but damn I’m embarrassed just thinking about it. I think she picked up on that. Her eyes shot daggers as soon as she disembarked. “What. Not good enough for you?” She sneered. “No, Naomi. Just tired.” God it really is just highschool again. “Well I’m sorry, but I really do hope this doesn't put a hamper on your nieces birthday.” The way she brought up our sling was pretty cold, but I got the point. Her metamorphosis between a woman I can not get enough of, and one I can not stand to be around is beyond crazy, even to me. I had to tell her what she needed to hear, and fast. “Nothing is wrong. You just kept me up all night, that's all.” I lean in and whisper. That did the trick. She immediately blushed and looked away. Quite the dangerous move in the playbook, but an all too effective one. I know it made me feel both sick and excited at the same time, amplified by the fact she squeezed my arm in retaliation. “You sure are something, Nas.” Tell me about it. With no one looking I kiss her cheek and leave her there. I can only take so much at once. Naomi was about to do the same before she immediately retracts, wait do I smell bad? “Hey Naomi!” Lucy calls out to her. “O-oh! Lucy!” I panic lightly because she might’ve seen us. Thankfully she didn’t seem to suspect anything. “Lucy! Your daughter’s party is uhm…” Naomi glances around the room, I remember her trying to be honest more as she tries to think up some words to compliment the party. “Modest? Yeah she didn’t want anything fancy or big, Anon’s big dumb mouth spoiled it for her. We managed to talk it out and she’ll have two parties, one with us and the other with her friends. She didn’t want Mom and Dad around, but Mom insisted that she cook for us and then proceeded to bake her a cake and lemme tell ya…” She opened the fridge to reveal a comically large cake that took up an entire space for the fridge. I can sense that Fang was fairly disappointed she couldn't have her daughter's 18th birthday be something more extravagant but it is what it is, I mean her own birthday was pretty crap too when she was still non binary. Mine was...alright? We ate some really nice homemade pizza from Mom, somehow better than Moe's! ...Wonder where Uncle Moe is now. “And coupled with Reed buying out an entire restaurant full of nuggies, I’m pretty sure we’re set for the winter. You guys can take leftovers by the way.” “Ah nice, Calories for my already terrible diet.” Lucy gives me an eye roll and a glance at my belly to see that I could actually work out to shave it off. “Riiiiiight. Hey Naser, can you gimme a moment to talk to Naomi? It’s something important. ” She gave me a smile and a small gesture to go hangout with Anon. “Uhh…sure?” I raise an eyebrow before reluctantly going back to Anon. I could hear them in the distance though. “Hey Naomi? Is everything okay?” Lucy looked at her with a stern, yet caring look. “This again?” Naomi tried to maintain composure but couldn’t return the gaze. “Naomi, you know we can help. You’re clearly going through something, and I'm not content with letting a friend of mine get twisted in the wind.” Naomi only took a breath to steady herself and looked back at her with a serious but inoffensive gaze. “I’m perfectly content with how my life is, thank you very much.” “All I’m saying is… You know that Anon and I have had our struggles in the past. But it's the least we can do; paying you forward as a thanks for helping us so much these recent years.” “I appreciate the concern, Lucy, I really do. But everything is fine.” Naomi’s voice felt melancholy, sighing away as she straightened her back to return to her proper lady persona. The act was slipping. “If you say so.” Lucy doesn’t believe what Naomi had said but accepts her request at being left alone for the moment. They both hug before Lucy returns to calling Trish on the phone, I walk back to Naomi and she looks contemplative. Grasping at the helm of her skirt before looking back at me. “Oh. Naser…” She doesn’t look at me. “What’s that all about?” “Oh it’s nothing. Just Lucy trying to help me out, that's all.” She tries to look at me to show she means well but she avoids my gaze. “It didn’t look like nothing? I mean you can tell me anything right? Since we’re technically back together?” I worry for her. Like how she used to stress herself out on school work back then, but this is different now. Life’s way more complex than just test anxiety or prom, and it only gets more complex from here on out with what I’m doing. “Yes, I’ll tell you later when we have time to ourselves.” She gives me a meek smile. It was hard to trust that smile, she’ll be okay right now but she won’t stay okay forever. I’m starting to regret sleeping with her but…fuck she’s insatiable. I gotta distract myself with alcohol. “Let’s drink together! Do you want tequila? I bought tequila~” Naomi held my arm dearly, too close for comfort. “Oh thanks but uhh…” I wanted to drink by myself though. “What was that?” Naomi sternly looked back at me, both in surprise and anger. Clinging onto my arm more fiercely. Okay I’m starting to regret the idea of drinking as a distraction. “I mean, let’s not get too drunk? We don’t want to slip anything up do we?” “Oh so like how you didn’t want to slip up sneaking out of the house? Don’t think I didn’t see what happened with my sweet little Melissa.” Naomi looks at me angrily now, fuck how do I get outta here. “Naomi please, not here?” I beg to be let go, her grip is hurting my arm now. Wow, she's surprisingly strong. I look back at her eyes, tears swelling up and other people start to notice. Desperation etched across her as she weakly lets go the moment Lucy steps in, sobbing as Lucy looks back at me. “Naser, please don’t leave me! I'm sorry please-” She says one last time before I finally let go. Accidentally landing on her back as Lucy manages to catch her. “What happened?” Lucy asked. “I uhh don’t know! She just…” “I what? Got treated like a piece of trash? Maybe this is what I deserve...” Naomi weakly slurs out at me. What she said doesn’t even make sense, she’s just angry at me. “Hey buddy, you should step out a bit.” Anon gently waves his hand at the backyard. His tone is neutral but kind, his face was the same as well. Detailed with sympathy and understanding. “...Fuck.” I step out. Fuck this, God…damnit all. Amber’s Room Amber I head up to my room, my grip still on my Para GF’s hand. I know she doesn’t really get along with strangers well, it’s understandable, sure, but it does affect her social skills. We stand near the door, Melissa’s second thoughts kick in. “Y-y’know maybe we should come back to the party! I-I’m fine now.” I look back at her and give a comforting smile, hugging her again and whispering. “Remember what we talked about?” “No two-faced bullshit?” “I mean not exactly- but that’s close! No two-faced bullshit.” The shorthand that my mother shared with me shot through my head like a bullet. It felt good, and I was hoping that good vibe would be reciprocated if I just kept up the energy. “I’m sorry, Amby, this was supposed to be all about you and your special day but-’ “Pff, It’s fiiiine. I would much rather spend time making other people feel better than anything else. That way, things go smoothly, AND we can get our camping trip ready without any unnecessary horseshit clogging up our feelings.” Melissa yucked. “Amber, that is the most disgusting metaphor I've heard from your mouth yet. Where do you even come up with any of this?” “Ugh, I think it’s from my dad. Dude mumbles to himself when he thinks no one is listening and says some of the most horrendous shit you could possibly think of.” “Your dad is a fucking weirdo. But it totally explains how you turned out.” She giggled. “Love you too.” I responded semi sarcastically, flipping the bird right along with it. The door opens, sanctuary from the outside world. My computer was still on, the monitor showing my latest commission work that was still in progress. My Pacom Tablet sitting idly, right next to my traditional pens and sketchpads. My walls were adorned with posters from animated shows and comic books, I always smile at the one signed by Para Strong. It’s funny to think I went through a My Tiny Poner phase not too long ago, really, I don’t think it ever ended. But I also don't know if that's just some level of irony that even I was not privy to. My dad’s ancient ass Xrox lies on the floor, it’s pretty impressive how Sera fixed it to the point where it looked brand new. RAYmba is still alive because of her too, I like having her around despite the fact that she’s thirsty for human dick. Sera is pretty, considerate and loyal, I just wish she wasn’t into my dad of all things. Do I tell her he isn't into jailbait? Or is that more weird? It's weird I’m focusing on this, I gotta focus on Melissa. I lay down on the bed, she does as well. Letting out a sigh and closing her eyes, I inch closer to her and our shoulders touch. “So…tell me what’s up.” “Playing doctor again?” She snarked. “Yeah, Bend over and actually tell me what’s going on.” I reply snarky, Trying to make a point. Melissa’s eyes widened, blushing before shaking her head. She sighed as she sank deeper into the bed, closing her eyes to focus on what she’s going to say. When she does say it, it’s pretty surprising as hell. “Well…I think my mom is cheating on my dad.” She bluntly stated. Ah Jesus fuck, I thought to myself. I was hoping this was a boy issue or something stupid. But…this is something I gotta take seriously, so this isn’t stupid. “Woah wait really? So…who is it?” I lean in just a bit closer. She closes her eyes, taking in a breath as she looks at me. “Promise you won’t judge me for it?” Melissa hesitantly says. “I won’t.” I hold her hand, lightly interlocking her fingers with mine. “I-it’s your uncle. It might be him, I saw him while I stayed at home.” I tried processing what she said, And it still doesn't make sense… Only that it makes the most sense in the world. “Fuck me”, I thought, but I had to stay somewhat un-biased as of right now. “...What makes you say that?” I ask, still taking it in. “Remember when I told you we couldn’t hang out at the park because of this terrible period cramp I had?” “Yeah? You texted me about it.” “Well…My mom thought I was gone when I was just in my room aching in pain. I heard her invite someone in and she spoke to him like he’s just a piece of meat. And …” “And uh, what?” I brace for impact on whatever was going to fall out her mouth. “... Look, I think I heard them…They were there and I saw them after they left…I’m pretty sure!” She shouted a bit louder than she intended, immediately covering her mouth in regret. I wasn’t offended though, I was just being there for her. I nudge closer to her and she avoids my gaze out of shame. “L-let’s just come back to the party, I feel better now!” She pleaded. “Mel! It’s okay, we gotta be honest to each other. I don’t want any bad air around us. That’s what I really said, not two faced BS.” I firmly stood my ground, I gotta help her out. “Y-yeah…but it’s unnecessary horseshit like you said…” “What I meant by that is that we gotta deal with our issues, not treat them as actual horse shit and disregard them as such. They’re legitimately serious Mel, and I’m here for you.” She hugs me. I could feel my shoulder getting wet, her silent weeps struck my heart with an ache. It sucked seeing her like this, I only want her to get the best that she deserves. And dammit I’ll be the best for her. Though there’s still something that makes me worry though. “Well…even if I’m related to him…Do you still love me?” “Of course I do, I just want my mom to not lie anymore.” I couldn’t see her but I felt like she didn’t believe her mom was capable of change, as much as she wished anyway. I sighed with relief, grasping at her hands lightly. “What about Tommy? Does he know?” I knew it might’ve been a sore subject to bring up now but it could be important considering how supportive Tommy usually is. “I-I don’t think so, he loves dad. But he is pretty bad at handling his own emotions, he keeps this facade of this cool bro vibe but really he’s just as hurt as me. Do I tell him?” Do I say yes? It sounds obvious but as I slowly process this whole ordeal, I feel terrified in an odd way. I’m dealing with the fate of an entire family here, hell possibly the whole future of my own family if I screw up. Fuck, I hate this responsibility being put on me. I know I should be responsible but it sucks having to deal with this in the first place because of irresponsible adults. I trust Melissa but I’m not sure if I can trust myself if I can make the right decisions. “Y-you should do that.” I felt uneasy afterwards. This is the right decision…right? I’m doing good here…so why do I feel like this? “And what if he doesn’t believe me?” I look back at her, she notices I felt a bit uneasy taking it all in and she hugs me tighter. “Maybe give some proof? Like photos or videos or something?” I thought up. “Are you gonna help me?” She gave me the sweetest but most determined voice she has ever spoken to me. God, she’s lovely. “Of course, I’m just wondering how I should tell my parents about this. My mom has been hanging out with Auntie Naomi lately.” “Yeah…” She sits back up. Taking in a breather before smiling. “I think I feel better now, really I do. Thanks for that, I know you said it’s no problem but I wanna repay you for helping me out with these sorts of things." “What’s your plan?” I replied back. “Well…Treat you right back?” She smiled meekly, Aww. “I’ll take that.” I reply modestly. We giggle again before taking in a breather. I gotta think this through, think all of this through. “I’d love to but I gotta take some alone time for a bit. Like, to process all of this if that’s okay with you.” I hold her hands gently. “Aww.” She fake pouts but is still fairly understanding of what I wanna do. “Don’t worry we’re still gonna make time for that sort of thing.” I hug her once more before exiting the room, taking a few steps before slumping at the hallway wall. Fuck, this is rough, why do I gotta deal with bullshit caused by adults? I mean, I’m an adult now, I should know what to do right? I’m not the only person in the world, so I gotta be there for them. Yeah, as long as they do the right thing eventually…right? God I need some fresh air. I step downstairs, sliding past Sera who’s still taking pics of Dad. “Okay, now take off your jacket!” “Do I have to? I thought 5 pics were enough.” “This is what professional photography is all about, hun. Now strip for me!” Dad was about to comply before I pulled Sera away. “Yeah, no don’t.” I sternly command her. “But-” Sera knows what I mean even if what I said didn’t make any sense. “But NOTHIN!” I emphasize with a mean demeanor. I took the camera away from her, she really did fix it. Oh wow this feels brand new actually, even bothered to clean it. “Oh c’mon, I was gonna take pictures of the other members.” I raise an eyebrow, she puts her best face of genuinity to me. Well it is pretty convincing, alright fine. I give it back to her and she smiles, then takes off to do a father/daughter selfie of Reed. Well when she’s not horny she’s actually pretty nice I’ll give her that. I see Auntie Naomi hugging onto Uncle Naser, it’s not true is it? Whatever…I’m spent. I opened the door and was met with the breeze, finally a moment to think. The Porch Naser I step outside for some fresh air. Fuck me that was rough, I didn’t exactly meant for that to happen either. God I gotta fix things with her, But not right now. I needed some space, I stretched my muscles out. Careful as to not pull anything bad, Man I gotta exercise more. “Isn’t Mr Mous so dreamy~” Sera admired the pictures she took. I think I could hear her growling too with loud sniffing at the polaroid. “What. The fuck.…” Melissa deadpanned. She must’ve gone downstairs. “Don’t judge it hun.” Sera retorted. Okay maybe some more space was needed, because what the actual fuck is wrong with that girl. Then I heard a voice, Amber…I saw her comforting her girlfriend earlier. Hopefully those two are gonna be able to handle it, I can barely handle Naomi after having no woman in my life for so long. But then again, I should man up and see what’s up. I slowly approached Amber who sat on the porch stairs, sighing away at her dismay, trying her best to not pay anything attention to her thirsty friend and their braindead ramblings. She looked up at the stars, they’re bright even with the light pollution around. “I know you’re being quiet, Uncle Nas.” “I uhm… hope I didn't slaughter the vibe or anything.” I stumbled out, trying my best to channel my inner teenager to make her feel better. “No Uncle Nas… Also, never say that again, please.” She glared at me, obviously annoyed. Unfortunately I’m as cool as this fucking heat from earlier. Not even my generation fucking said those things, the fuck’s wrong with me? I groaned, carefully so it didn’t seem like it was directed at her. She doesn’t need to feel more awful at what happened. I looked at her with apprehension, she was in deep thought. “Can I…” “Yes, you can sit with me.” She bluntly stated. “...Alright.” I let out a breath that I didn’t know I held. We sat for a while, I don’t think I know what to do here. And it seems that neither does she, But it is nice. The cold breeze of the night was comforting, covered by the warmth of the porch light. “So…what were you doing out here?” “Wanting some alone time, but y’know I guess I can’t have that right now.” “O-oh I’ll just leave.” I get up but she glances at me. “No. It’s fine, like actually fine. I’m just…taking some stuff I heard from Melissa in.” She looks at me with contemplation. Hesitating on what to say. “Naomi it’s alright, we’re here for you.” Lucy comforted inside the house. “I-I know…” She sounded distraught. I slump back and groan, Amber must’ve heard what happened earlier too. Fuck me, whatever happened to Naomi? Whatever happened to me? God I’m…fuck. "Amber... I think I'm dumb." I vented. “Yep. You are.” She deadpans. What? "I mean, you said it, not me." She stated. She had this small moment of accusation towards me. I look at her with an incredulous face, questioning her current insincerity. Amber realizes her mistake before taking a breather as she thought on what to say next. "...Why would you say that?" She corrects herself. Like mother, like daughter. Okay how do I handle this? More and more research says that men around the age 30 above usually avoid their own personal problems which lead to stress. And I wanna wind down and not feel stressed right now, so fuck it. I trust Amber, she knows what to do. "I've been going through some things in my personal life. Relationships, My Family, My Job and hating the damn city. Actually, I've been thinking about moving back to the bluff, but I can't make up my mind." "Really?" She asked, tilting her head. “Yeah? Is that a problem or something?” I genuinely asked. Seeing if there was an issue moving back despite Mom handling the housing for me. "No. I mean, I know I'd love to have you live here, so I can see my uncle whenever, ya know? But… What's the hold up?" This is it, the big reveal. Okay maybe don’t reveal too much, just enough to make her get the idea. "To tell you the truth… Naomi." The look she gave me was realization. She straightened her back to give me her full attention. "So it is true…You are having an affair. What the hell are you guys doing?" She interrogated. Oh sweet fuck… She knows…But how does she know?? “Melissa told me, you snuck out the front door and she saw you…I don’t think you know this but her dad, Ganon, means alot to her because he’s the nicest dad she’s ever had.” Guilt weighs in on me, fuck this hurts. “Yeah, it sucks doesn’t it.” She gives a pointing finger to me. She doesn’t look angry but rather reprimanding. “Amber please…you gotta help me. Nobody has to know about this! Lucy would kill me!” Amber gives me a stern look and motions her hands for me to calm down. I don’t think I feel calm though… “Listen, I’m not gonna fix your problems. You gotta deal with this yourself. Be a responsible adult and tell the truth to everyone around you. The more you’re gonna let it fester, the more it’ll bubble up and explode violently.” She firmly stated. “I…Okay alright.” “In the meantime…How are you gonna convince anyone else? Are you just with her to fuck or do you actually love her? Does SHE even love you back or are you just a piece of meat? What the fuck are you even gonna do when you move in to the neighborhood for work??” She throws questions at me like bullets. …Okay now this is something I didn’t expect but should’ve, now I’m in this too deep. I never thought of how devastating this cheating thing would be throughout my family, hell even friends. Oh damn is this what she feels? She gave me that harsh look, one that stung of guilt right into me. The sign that shows you fucked up big time. "I uh… she uh… really wants me to work with her, ya know, at the local hospital because… Everyone else there is a pain in the ass to work with. And she's hoping I can buck the trend." I try my best to convince her that it isn’t all selfish hedonistic fulfillment. Nailed it. "I uh… Can definitely understand that, I guess?” She didn’t really feel convinced by that. Amber groaned in frustration. Trying her best to mean well to the person she loves while also acting like mom even if she doesn’t know it. “Didn't you two used to like… Be a thing? And didn't that lead to other stuff?" "Yeah but…Eh, adults can mend things and can still be friends. Like I thought we were gonna be together forever before I just got tired of her. I just asked for a quick break being together and she took it as…" I cringed at how Naomi took it. That memory is seared into my mind. Amber then had a sad look on her face. “We’re still family by the way, we help each other out. But you gotta be there for us if you’re really wanting to fix this.” It only cemented to me just how much I… sorta wasn't there for Lucy or Amber for the past few years. A relationship I could lose… “Hey, You’ve been there for me. We rarely talk nowadays but when we do, you try your goddamn best. Fix your shit up, and do the right thing. That’s what matters, don’t stress yourself out on what you could’ve done.” She heard what I said. Despite all the problems, I really love my family. I’m really glad Amber was here to guide me.. “You’re pretty wise, you know that right?” “I guess, maybe? God, I don't wanna say something stupid, like, “Gee, I am really mature for my age.” Something corny like that. But my mom, despite everything, she's helped me get through a lot, and it truly has rubbed off on me. I think I had an unfair advantage, is all I'm saying, and I'm thankful for it." “Huh… I'm really glad to hear.” I smile, even my tired ass feels a bit rejuvenated by what she said. Her eyes widen, she’s pretty surprised at her own wisdom. “T-thanks, You’ve got a chance to fix things with Naomi. Just gotta be aware of what she’s doing and going through, But also don’t be y’know, a paranoid prick that’s controlling. I don’t really care about the drama that happened between her and my parents. I just care that she’s hurting and lashing it out, especially her own kids.” “Yeah…” Something to keep in mind… The moon looks pretty beautiful, you never really got views like this from the city. I think I really wanna move back here, just gotta ask Dad for help about it. And I get to visit my niece and my old ex closely…I forgot how beautiful Naomi used to be. But at the same time, I’m not sure if I’m being used again. I really wanna be there for her, she’s genuinely kind to me after what I’ve been through in my line of duty. And if I’m being used… Then I don’t know what I’d do. Drinking "ANON! LUCY! AAAAAMBER!" Naomi yelled in the background. I burp as I took a glance at what was currently happening. I asked Anon earlier if he wanted to get fatherly drunk with me, and like a simpleton he said yes. Love this man really, always reliable. This in turn made Naomi drink as well before turning it into an unspoken drinking contest across every member in the party. The adults like Naomi have separated groups of men and women, it’s pretty unfair considering Reed is the only other guy that Anon had invited. And this guy is stoned! That doesn’t count as being drunk! Oh now Naomi is secretly flipping the bird at me. Lovely as ever. “Uhh Naser?” Anon was starting to get drunk, slightly slurring but still there. Oh wait did I say that out loud? “You wanna robot like RAYmba? I love RAYmba so much. I’m glad Sera made these for us” BEEP BOOP A roomba shaped robot slides across the countertop, pulling out a small mechanical limb with a tablecloth. Wiping away the alcohol that spilled on the counter before sinking back into the counter seamlessly. These were made by Sera? That’s impressive…very impressive. I want more drunks- Drinks. I mean drinks. “We got a fancy guest room too after our…after our…fuck what was it again? Room is free if you wanna pass out there!” Anon slurred after slamming another drink, this is a very good birthday party I tell you that much. More drinks, More glasses and more words are thrown. I burped heavily as Anon cried. The girls stopped drinking eventually except for Naomi who kept going at it. “Why can’t I ever grow hair! I always wanted to be like Goku!” He coped. I was physically tired from the trip and emotionally tired from dealing with Naomi. But hey, he did offer the guest room. I wanna sleep on a comfy bed, a very fluffy one at that…BUT WE’RE HERE TO PARTY! A few shots from a tequila bottle had regained some of my youthful confidence, but I knew it wouldn't fix everything. Lucy had been with the girls in the living room, chatting away like there’s not a care in the world. "Uh Uncle Nas? You alright buddy?" Amber asked, noticing Anon’s spectral uber autismo going super saiyan into the negative IQ’s. “LENNAY!!” Anon shouted. Amber just facepalmed before focusing on me. I had been focused on the wall for a bit. Fuck. That wall is a bitch! Like me! Or Naomi…we’re both bitches… Fuck bitches, man. "It's nothing man. Just tired." "You couldn't POSSIBLY be worried about anything, right? Because if you are, then Naomi’s trying to call you, I would’ve just ignored her but then she started… Sayin’ some WEIRD Double entendre soundin’ shit.” "No. Not at all. I’m perfectly okay! Let’s fucking do this!" I stand up immediately, stumbling slightly but balancing myself quite well. I turned back to face Anon, Who’s just as shit faced as I am. I'm sure my body language gave away that I wasn't all there, but there was nothing more I could do. Amber drags me away before I pat Anon’s smooth head. The conversation in the living room was lively compared to the rest of what we had. Lucy switched to beer, still hammered but not on the hard shit. Sera and Melissa drank too, Melissa more so and Sera didn’t seem drunk at all. And finally Naomi who is completely shit faced like Anon.. Amber seemed grateful Naomi stopped by, and I was happy that she was happy, but damn. The infectious joy heard from the girls recounting their day leading up to tonight seeped into my pores, made worse whenever Naomi piped up. "Yeah everything is wonderful! Ganon, my wonderful husband, paid for my car to be repaired after the brakes went and I just got it out of the shop to see you!" “But…we drove you here?” Lucy interjected. “Yes! Yes…” She gulped another shot of Tequila. Really thoughtful of her. Then suddenly, guilt stung. Melissa spots me but is intentionally ignoring me. Oh god I gotta be careful with what I might say, c’mon drunk ass focus! Focus…fuck it’s hard to focus. "Welp, I should say goodnight and head ta’ bedie…” I stumbled out as I struggled with the simple act of walking. "Sure Unc, but we’re gonna eat the cake soon!." Amber said, walking with me. "I'm not too used to drinking. It's unbecoming of a doctor." I lied out loud. “But…we’re eating the cake? Not drinking?” Amber was drunk too it seems, but not as heavy as me. "Naser~!" Shit. The stairs were in full eyeshot of everyone, and Naomi spotted me first. She has attracted everyone’s attention, stop looking at me ugh. Lucy in a recliner, the girls on the floor and… Naomi looked straight through me on the loveseat. I freeze in place. Time to play the piper. “Girls! Are w-we all doing good?” I stumbled over myself. Naomi immediately shoots me the ugliest stink eye I have ever seen from her. Lucy just smiled awkwardly and nonchalantly waved her hand as a sort of both hello and a goodbye at the same time. The teens just gave half smiles. “Nas’, are you…?” Lucy was cut off by a pink detractor getting up and grabbing me by the arm. Oh god please no don’t Lucy I love you too much to be gone please no… “I’ll take him home, It's obvious he's been drinking.” Naomi said. Why… “... Oh but, our guest room is right upsta-” “NO- I mean no, Lucy, you shouldn't have to take care of your drunkard of a brother. I will.” I noticed the girls shooting looks back and forth to each other over the commotion. I really don’t think that I was hammered but… Oh God what a disaster either way. Naomi shuffled me out of the house as she said goodbye to her daughter. Melissa just scoffed and walked upstairs. I was kind of surprised that Lucy didn't put up more of a fight to keep me around but I guess she really didn't want to deal with that right now. … “I gotta get back to quantum physics class dad! Love talking to you!” “Yeah okay honey, if you need money I’m right here! Bye Patpat!” Reed spoke to his phone, smoking a fat doobie. He doesn’t seem drunk at all. I step out of the house, Naomi leading me out but stumbling out and tripping over the doormat. She hit her head on the grass in which I laughed. Reed was surprised by our presence, noting our situation. “HAH! Stupid- Dumb…” For some reason I was about to sneeze, and I stupidly stopped myself which made it worse as I sprayed myself with my own beer snot. “Look at yourself! You- You homewrecker!” She pointed at me with fury while slurring. “Okay guys time to go…” Reed grabbed us. Wait, he was outside? “Ahhhh! No! Leave me alone!” Naomi weakly smacked Reed before he just sighed and dragged us from the sidewalk. “...Whatever happened to you Naomi? And you Naser?” He muttered, genuinely concerned. “Nothing…Nothing happened. Except THEM! And- and…HIM!” Naomi hissed at me, I just rolled my eyes. Before laughing lightly at how she said it, then going into a guffaw. “Oh please! You HIC brought it on yourself!” I laughed again. “Enough! You’re lucky you’re neighbors.” I didn’t know how long we walked but we eventually stepped in front of a home. Reed somehow got Naomi’s key from her pockets and unlocked the door, he searched for the lights and turned them on and sat both of us on the couch. “You two. Sleep.” He commanded. He threw Naomi’s keys at her and proceeded to lock the door with the button on the knob. Finally leaving us. “Fffffuck Reed. I ain’t sleeping. I don’t wanna…wanna…” I realized I was touching Naomi’s thigh…wait did I? She’s holding my wrist…I instinctively squeezed her thigh, bringing back memories of highschool before going lower and- “AH!” Naomi flinched. I noticed something red on my hand, oh she skinned her knee when she fell. We gotta…take care of that. “Gotta…doctor you…I am doctor…” I tried to maintain my professionalism, pulling out my napkin as I lightly dab it- OUCH Before I knew it, she pinned me onto the floor forcefully. Ow my crest…Oh why is she looking at me like that? Why is she grinding against my groin even though she’s bleeding? “Naser…I want you. I only want you.” She looked at me with an intensity. Her grip tightening and her grinding became uncomfortable for my groin. “N-Naomi please! You’re hurting me!” Oh god why do her nails hurt? Her claws were made for tofu or whatever the fuck- OW! “I’ve always wanted you, Naser. And you’re not going anywhere.” Her voice tone morphed into a scuffed false seductress. She drags me upstairs, I feel too tired, drunk and scared to resist. I love her but this feels wrong, very wrong. Her grip tightens, oh god, motherhood does strengthen you up. “AH! Naomi, Shit!” I protest, lovingly. She’s ignoring me, fuck what’s gonna happen to me? We go into her room, the lavish bedroom that her husband has graciously worked hard for. Her husband, which I’m betraying and he doesn’t even know. Pushing me onto the bed as she jumped on top of me. She pulled me on top of her and we made out like feral animals attacking each other. The smell of her perfume mixed with with the our sweat drenched bodies and holy fuck, it was hot. The mix of shame, taboo and sheer passion was intoxicating in and of itself… A little too intoxicating… I feel a bit sleepy… “Naser…I love you. Remember that please, don’t forget me…” She says one last time before she dozed off. Her wound is still there, tears smear her makeup. A sad lonely smile etched across her grin, whatever happened to her? …Whatever happened to me? That night…we did it again. All the while hurting me and treating me like property. Fuck this woman…I love her. I hate her. I love her again. What do I do? There’s nothing I can do but watch and see it all unfold, I was right…I didn’t know what to do. And I loved it. [NOTES] Spoopy: I'm currently in college and am gonna be very busy so we don't have a consistent upload schedule but we do have ideas cooking up for future stuff dw guys Jack: Peepnis