Upon their return from the mountains, Alexandria and Lawrence Lakes Sr. had some work to do.  First thing was to remodel one of their bedrooms into a room for the grandkids.  The room hadn’t been touched since the day Larry found his wife cold and motionless on the floor in a pool of her own blood.  A day he won’t ever forget.  However, it was best that they stop avoiding the room and make it a welcome place for little Milo and Lola when they visit for weekends.

Additionally, they put a pool in the backyard so Larry could get back in shape without compromising his love for the outdoors.  It was hard for him to let go of his weights and boxing equipment, but he knew it was for the best.  Alex wouldn’t allow anything but swimming, not even a jog around the island. 

After all of this, the two who had spent so much of their lives together, lay quietly reminiscing of all the wonderful years they had spent in this house.

It seems these days that Koi and Jeremiah are simply trying to define what it is they are actually doing.  Neither of them are rushing marriage and children, however they both desire and need each others companionship.  So, they are companions.  And they are comfortable with that. You will often find them out on walks or out to dinner. 

Tonight was different though.

“A farm?”

“I mean, you know…. just like a dream I had.”

Jeremiah wants to live off the grid.  This is news to Koi (who is an island girl and really wants to open that art gallery).  And when I say off the grid, i’m talking well water, no indoor plumbing, solar panels, raising pets you’ll eventually eat (chickens, cows, etc), replacing motors on tractors.  I mean just…..

It took several glasses of wine before she thought the idea was kinda fun… the wine and of course, that smile of his that she loves so much.

“Here’s to the future!”

*clink*

Being the intuitive one that she is, Alex could immediately tell that something was wrong.  She was watching as Larry slunk back to the cabin extremely exhausted from his jog.  There is a very good reason why Alex is Larry’s soulmate.  She always knows exactly what he needs.  Most importantly, she knows how to deliver what he needs without him saying a word.

Alex suggests that Larry swim.  She explains how great of a workout it is while also being a way to have fun and relax.  Exercise that is fun and relaxing? She watched him swim laps, coached him a little, then the two had a little fun.  Afterwards, Larry drifted to sleep as Alex prepared herself for the road ahead.

He was only trying to follow the doctor’s orders.  They were quite simple, really.

Eat right. Exercise.

Larry doesn’t have the energy like he used to. He’d never gotten this tired before.  He is beginning to realize exactly what this recent birthday meant.  He certainly wasn’t going to bring all of this to his wife.  Partly because he had never really felt depression before and wouldn’t know how to formulate his feelings into words.

So he sat, trying to soak away the cramps in his body, hoping the steam would remove the worry from him.  Letting the mist mask his leaky eyes.

Poor Larry…. he wasn’t ready for this.  He is, however, ready to go back home.

Alex took Larry to celebrate his transition that evening.  With a nod to the waitress, they were soon looking into the flames of candles that would take Larry into the next phase of his life.  Flanked by his beautiful wife and their neighbors, Clara and Bjorn (of which Clara has the biggest crush on Larry unbeknownst to her husband) who just happened to be vacationing as well, Larry wished for one thing: to live long enough to see his grandchildren grow up. 

And just like that……

“See, told you baby.  Just a little more gray.”

“A little? Isn’t my hair supposed to gradually turn white? Also, why does my back just randomly give out now?”

“Shhh enjoy the fire sweetheart.”

“Well fine, but later I fully anticipate making sure it (points to crotch) still works.”

Larry is a bit worried that once he finally blows out the candles he won’t be able to “perform.”  However, Alex thinks this idea is ludicrous….

“Baby, the way you performed last night?  I doubt anything is going to change aside from a little more gray hair.  Speaking of last night, you want some more?”

“Do I? I ain’t elderly YET!”

The face you make when you know you’re about to get….

Larry finally gets a chance to show his wife the home he built for her in the mountains.  Just a day shy of his birthday……

“Milo! We have school in the morning! Why am I up?“

“LOOK!  LOOK THERE!”

“Why are you SO LOUD?”

“OHMYGAH Lola just look under the bed!!”

.

.

.

“MOOOOOOOOOOOOMMMMMMMMM!!!”

“Lola?”

“Yeah..”

“We are so NOT talking about this in school tomorrow.”

“Not a word Milo.”

Once Larry was healthy enough, he and his wife took the whole family out to dinner to celebrate.  The only one missing was Leo who was home sick with the tiger stripes.  The celebration was focused entirely on Larry.  His life, his recovery, his love and his upcoming transition to a new stage of life.

Larry is turning 60.

Everyone gave updates on where they were in life.  Lyric is working at a boutique in Magnolia, LJ isn’t quite sure where his life is headed but at least he knows who he is headed there with.  Koi is selling masterpieces in her backyard and Jeremiah is saving up to help her open an art gallery. Lauren, Lola and Milo are doing great.  Lauren is selling things from her garden, Mike has taken up computer programming and was finally able to afford a ring. They haven’t set a date yet.

With their hearts and bellies full, everyone said their goodbyes.  Alex and Larry were headed to the mountains.  LJ and Koi promised to check in on Leo while they were away.

The Lakes family ladies and gentlemen.

“Will the scar be there forever Alex?”

“Yes, but so will I.”

Poor Alex… she feels responsible for all of this.  She seems to think that, if she hadn’t been so focused on catching those silly fish, she could have somehow prevented the heart attack.  She doesn’t feel as if she was taking good care of him.  She tried not to let the guilt get to her but when Larry asked about his scar…

“Lawrence, I am so, so sorry.  I love you so much and I should ha…..”

“No.  No, no Alex.  Don’t you do that.  Don’t do that to me. I promised you I would take care of myself and I didn’t.  This is my fault.  You made me good, healthy food.  Leo tried to get me to work out with him… this is NOT your fault…. 

……come here…..”

“Daddy, it’s Lauren.  I’m going to get you a shirt okay? You’re coming home.”

“Did they see it?”

“Who?  Did who see it?”

“My grandkids.  Did they see me?”

“No daddy, they don’t know about it.”

“Good.  They think I’m a super hero, I don’t want them to see my weakness.”

Massive heart attack. If Leo didn’t start chest compressions when he did, Larry would have died. Quadruple bypass.  10 hour long open-heart surgery. Medically induced coma. 

He survived all of this. 

If he wishes to continue living, he will need to change his diet.  He will be on medications for the rest of his life.  He will need to lose weight.  He will need to exercise, like he used to. 

Alex heard it all, but the one piece she keeps hearing over and over again is simply this:  “He survived.”

“Mommy!! MOM!! MOOOMMMMMYYYYYY”

“Milo, you don’t have to yell it sweetie, the name won’t ever change.”

“Mom! Me and Lola were at granny and grandpa’s house! We played!  Grandpa spun Lola around in circles, did you  know he’s super strong? We had cake and ice cream! OH! And he could lift us both up with JUST HIS MUSCLES mom! Grandpa totally has super powers.  We didn’t get to say bye to him though…”

“Well why not?”

“I’m not sure.  He never came back … granny went to look for him.  I don’t know if she found him but her eyes were all wet and her voice was weird.  She told us to run home and not look back.”

“Are you sure Milo?”

“Yeah, ask Lola, she thinks granny saw a ghost.”

Alex tells the grandchildren she’ll be right back.  She thinks Larry has gone in the house, but why is he taking so long?  As she makes her way around the grill she sees him, a hint of blue blushes his cheeks.  She stops in her tracks and feels the cold rush of panic fill her body.  She screams but it is silent. Her ears are ringing. She whispers “Larry?” but no response. She runs over to the children who could see the shock in her eyes…

“Go to the dock.  NOW! Don’t look back.  Go straight there and catch the ferry.  When you get to the mainland run all the way home.”

Milo and Lola look confused “But we didn’t get to say goodbye to grandpa!” they whine… It takes everything in her not to cry in front of them as she thinks to herself “me either”.

She had planned for this, she should know what to do…. she checks Larry’s pulse.  It’s there! It’s there…..

“LEO!!!” she screams, her voice cracks at the last vowel sound.

She runs to the tree and gets what she needs, she looks around for the ominous figure to come floating up the shore….

She feels faint. 

“DAD NO!” Leo stands in shock and drops to his knees “Mom is he….”

Calm embraces Alex… “No, he has a faint pulse. You need to pump his chest Leo.  Call the Coast Guard on speakerphone, tell them your father may have had a heart attack.  Tell them to send an emergency chopper.  Keep pumping Leo and don’t you dare stop until they get here.  We won’t let death take him from us.  Not today.”

.

.

.

“Windenburg Coastal Authority, what is your emergency?”

Pump, pump, pump, pump, pump, pump……

“Larry! Come listen to Milo! He does the best impressions, he sounds just like you!!!

…………….. Larry?”

The very next day, Alex and Larry hosted some very special guests.  A surprise visit from their grandchildren Lola Mariana and Milo Lawrence was just what Alex needed.  Larry was so happy, he felt like a young father again.  Seeing her husband like this filled Alex with joy and eased her mind. 

Those two little ones gave their grandparents so much life that day and were promptly spoiled rotten rewarded for it.

“Leo did your dad grill burgers this morning.”

“Ma, me and dad are bros, I can’t tell you.  I’m loyal.”

“Hmmmm loyal huh?”

“Ma, why do you look so worried? It’s just a book!”

“It’s not the book i’m worried about Mr. Loyal.”

“Dad… mom made a salad JUST for you.  What are you even doing right now? have you had a colonoscopy? What’s your blood pressure?”

“What? I wanted to grill!  Protein is good for you!”

“Dad, I was on Simoogle right? Listen, you’re almost 60.  You have to eat right, work out and get BUFF!  Get you some guns!  Like, do you even lift?”

“Yep, I’m about to LIFT this burger up to my face.”

Alex was particularly proud of her Sturgeon.  That fish alone was her biggest catch and valued at over 2,200 Simoleons.  She’d never let that one go…

However, as she stood there, something was trying to push her confidence to the side.  She couldn’t shake the ominous feeling that sat in the pit of her stomach.  She shrugged it off, poured more wine and dozed off….

Alex has turned what was once Lauren’s room, then Lyric’s room into her own personal display case.  She calls it her mom cave where she can relax, sip wine as she reads the latest fish tales or simply put her feet up and bask in her many accomplishments.

Good job Alex. 

Larry is only a *tiny* bit jealous…..

She came back for the beast. 

She knows its here… lurking, green glow wafting from the depths of the hidden pond.  It was only in this hidden place that she would find it…. that terrible beast.  It was hiding again, but not for too long.

Hours were passing but she held her position, hiding her fear, wiping sweat from her furrowed brow.  A strange sensation it is to be so calm yet so afraid. She smirks at herself, gripping the pole so tight, her knuckles turn white as ghosts.

Oh but the beast was hungry tonight.  She gasped as she felt the violent force of its jaws gnash at her lure, almost pulling her in with it. She gripped even tighter feeling tiny slithers of wood from the handle of her rod pierce her flesh.  Her feet are firm, her balance restored.  The beast wants a fight. She won’t lose.  So heavy, so strong this beast.  Yanking and pulling, twisting and lurching…

And then….

The most ghastly creature she had ever seen!  It rose from the depths, its green light aglow… the beast flies through the air dripping and oozing, its coming straight toward her. She’s watching it fly, anticipation growing, heart pounding. “This is it” she whispers as the excitement grows.  The beast came swiftly… she’s almost pulled to ground by its mass. She grunts as the wind is knocked from her. And then… the beast was still. She slowly rises. She inspects it, she holds it up, she smells it….

“I.. I did it… I can’t believe I finally did it…”

“Just one more…”

Alex spent yesterday evening, last night and well into this morning doing what she loves.  She stayed in that very spot until finally….

“Gotcha!”

LJ came to  visit his parents today.  He needs help navigating through his feelings.  As expected, he is receiving nothing but love and support.

And a little humor of course…

“Well, whoever he is, he better like my cooking!”

“You’re so sexy when you catch rare Batfish baby.”

“And you’re so sexy when you break into caverns for me”

“Breaking and entering? Anything for you my love.”

“Let’s trespass all over those rocks over there…”

“I’ll need your help catching the next one Larry.”

“Me? You’re a much better angler than me sweetheart.”

“It’s not the fishing part I need your help with….”

Alex gasps……

“Mmmmm, number 18… you’re so beautiful.”

Alex has always been very subtle with her husband.  This wasn’t because she wasn’t concerned, it was just her nature.  Alex loved her husband no matter what, but she was a wellness guru and as such, when she noticed her dear Larry putting the pounds back on, she made sure to keep fresh juice and salads (her specialties were fruit salad and superfood salad) on deck at all times.  Larry often ignored the fresh-from-the-garden fare his wife conveniently left in the fridge for him to grab the less healthy meals he prepared while she slept… sneaky Larry, very sneaky…

Leo? Not so subtle….

“Dad, that gut tho… is it beer, baby or biscuits?”

“Can your ass cash that check your mouth just wrote young man?”

My, my how time’s flown….

Something tells me this won’t be the last time LJ has breakfast at the Oceanview Grill….

The last nail has been hammered in, the last screw has been tightened and the last coat of paint has dried.  Larry is ready to show Alex their retirement home in the mountains.

Lyric’s boyfriend had a house to himself after his dad took a job in The Springs so she and LJ moved in.

They’re just three roommates, out in the world and on their own.  Doing what most young adults out in the world and on their own typically do.

Wednesday Evening

Koi and Jeremiah decided to attend the grand opening of the Oceanview Grill.  The decor was amazing and the staff was pleasant.  There were no booths which the host attributed to a bad design flaw….

The food was very, very good.  Fresh from the ocean and seasoned to perfection.  The two were enjoying themselves when Koi suddenly became incredibly hot and itchy…

“Uh, Koi? You’re breaking out in hives… are you ok?”

“Oh no, does it  look bad?”

“We should probably go get you some Simadryl…”

Nothing like finding out about a shrimp allergy while out on a date with your beau.

When you’ve had one too many glasses of wine and don’t quite make it to your Uber. And you love the outdoors.  And your spouse has been flirting all night.  And, wine.

You would think these two had never been to a fancy restaurant before…

Alex and Larry decided to visit the grand opening of Chez Llama. 

Every edge in the establishment was snatched clean off.

It was a weekend full of celebrations.  The first two grandchildren were born to Larry and Alex Lakes.  In addition, the twins, Lyric and LJ, graduated from Windenburg Academy.  To top it all off? It was Leo’s birthday.  The Lakes family is exhausted today with preparations for Lyric and LJ to go on to college, clearing out bedrooms and deciding what on earth they will do with themselves as only one child remains in the home they created for five.

Not soon after finishing her coffee, Alex received a frantic call from Mike.   Lauren had gone into labor!  Alex rushed over.  She helped Lauren with her breathing and calmed Mike down with good conversation.  The entire ordeal lasted about thirty minutes, but to all of their surprise, Lauren wasn’t carrying just one grandbaby for Alex….

Welcome to Windenburg!!

• Milo Lawrence McKenzie born 3:28pm, 5lbs 3oz, 19in.
• Lola Mariana McKenzie born 3:37pm, 4lbs 9oz, 20in.

“Did I do good momma?”

“You did great sweetheart, congratulations.  Twins are hard work, I should know.  I’ll be stopping by daily to help out.  You get some rest now.”

Meanwhile, Dillon was meeting the parents and totally hitting it off with Larry. Lyric teased her twin brother LJ about his lack of female friends to bring home to mom and dad (of which LJ vehemently denies, asserting that he, indeed, has “girls”).  Dillon couldn’t stay for dessert, he had to go and help his grandma with her chores for the night, something Alex found quite nice about him.

Afterwards, Alex let the ocean breezes whisper instructions on how to be an amazing grandmother. The salt in the air encouraged her, the mist enlightened her, the smell gave her hope. It was a life stage she was more ready than ever for, regardless of the circumstances.

Today was a perfect day for a baby shower.  Lauren is due any moment now.  The only thing left to do is wait.

If you know Alex, you know she’s smart and very intuitive.  She senses things.  Neither she nor her husband are getting any younger.  After her emergency hysterectomy, where life hung in the balance, she had been working in her garden to make sure her family is prepared if there is a “next time”.  Not only that, her husband is exactly 31 days older than her.  She will have an ace up her sleeve when the spirits come knocking…..

“I’m so sorry about my dad.”

“Nah, I’d do the same for my daughter.  I mean, you know… if it’s a girl.”

“Your garden is coming along beautifully sweetheart”

Now that most of the trauma had subsided, it was time for Alex to explain a few life lessons to her eldest daughter.  First, she wanted to know how the first trimester was going.  They laughed about Lauren’s strange cravings and ridiculous sense of smell.  After the laughter, they walked down to the river…

“Lauren, it’s important that you understand some things about life my dear.  Sometimes things will not turn out as you expect them to.  Perhaps, sometimes, our expectations aren’t realistic.  I was very lucky to meet a man like your father.  Not every man is ready to jump into marriage, pushing it will only push them away.  I know you’ve learned this, but it’s not your fault sweetheart.”

She continued…

“Even at my age, it’s not realistic to want another baby.  Especially since those surgeons took away from me the one thing I had to make them.  That doesn’t mean I don’t want a baby, it’s just not realistic.  Be patient with him darling, love on each other.  Nothing is guaranteed.”

And with that, her mother left to board the seaplane back to the island, leaving Lauren with a heavy load to think about.

“Well…. how did it go?” Alex knows her husband very well.

“It went fine.  His uncle was very understanding of the situation.”

“That’s nice Larry.” she sighs… “You didn’t let your anger get the best of you did you?”

“I just told him about the importance of responsibility that’s all.”

Larry avoided Alex’s eyes and guzzled the rest of his 4th beer…. Alex knows exactly what that means and simply replied with:

“hmmm…..”

“Sorry nephew, you kinda brought this one on yourself lil dude.  Come on and get cleaned up.”

“Where’s your nephew young man?”

Larry was calm and matter of fact. He didn’t want to waste time.  Straight and to the point.  Secretly he wished Mike’s uncle said something stupid.  Larry has anger issues which become especially bad when someone fucks with his daughters….

“Who? Mike-mike?”

Larry just stared at him, his eye twitched as he thought about knocking this dude out for asking a dumb ass question.

“He’s around front. You must be that girl’s daddy.  Man-to-man, I’ve been trying to raise this boy right sir, he don’t listen you know?”

Mike’s uncle walked Larry to the front of the house.  Larry’s anger had built up to the point that he was starting to shake.  He was clenching his teeth so hard his jaw was sore….

“Mike, we need to talk.”

“Mike-mike, explain to this man why you ain’t wit ya girl.”

Alex could feel something coming.  In her garden is where she was able to do most of her reflection and connection to things.  Yoga wasn’t so easy now since the surgery…. She could feel her daughter’s presence before she heard “Mom, I need to talk to you”.

Plump breasts, lips cracked from vomiting, swollen eyes, baggy clothes.

“Mom, I….”

“You’re having my grandbaby Lauren”

Lauren began to sob, the hormones were part of it, but mostly the guilt of not being more careful.  Of being irresponsible.  Of falling for a man who would leave her.  Alex listened.  She let her daughter grieve. No lectures.  Who knows how long Lauren had kept this bottled up.  Lauren heard the back door open and rose to her feet.  With Lauren facing away from her, Alex could finally let out the grin she had been holding back, from ear to ear, her entire spirit lifted when she saw Lauren’s tiny little baby bump.

“Where is he Lauren?”

“I don’t know dad, he said he was going back to his uncle’s”

Dillon Dillinger had been head over heels in love with Lyric ever since 3rd grade.  Lyric hadn’t even noticed him until well into their sophomore year at the Academy (partly because LJ scared off any boy that even attempted to get Lyric to notice them).  I mean, she knew him, he was the quiet kid in the back of the class whose glasses were too big for his face, kept to himself and wasn’t a trouble-maker.  One day he asked if she wanted to share his peanut butter, banana and honey sandwich at lunch.  Lyric found this combination quite odd and thought “hey, why not?”  That gave Dillon just the courage he needed to ask her to hang out at The Bluffs, share their first kiss and ask her to be his girlfriend.

She said yes, Just a few feet away from where her mother said “I Do” many years before.

“We started so small.  Look at us now baby.  Look at us now…..”

An updated family portrait was long overdue. Alex couldn’t wait to get these on the wall if, of course, there was any room left.

Alexandria Mariana Oceana and Leo Lynx (seated).  Back (L to R): Lauren Estelle, Lyric Moon, Lawrence Lloyd Sr., Lawrence Lloyd Jr., Koi Alondra.

The Lakes family.

“You’re the elusive one. Gotcha.  Finally.”

“Daddy, what’s a miracle?”

“Why do you ask Leo?”

“Well, mom always calls me her miracle baby.  What does that mean?”

“Oh…. well, you see… all of these people, lots of people, they told your mom that she’d never have another little baby.  They told her that Lyric and LJ would be the last babies in our family.  One day, your mom and I found out you were growing inside of her.  We were so happy.  But then, after you were born, your mom got real sick.  And you know what?”

“Wh… what?”

“She got better because of you.  You gave her the strength to get better.  So two miracles happened Leo: Your mother risked her life to have you and in turn, your life saved hers.”

“Dude.. whenever you get sick, I get sick.  Please medicate yourself LJ.”

“Shut up Lyric, i’m fine.”

“There. Is. LITERALLY STEAM shooting out of the little bit of brain you have! Take the medicine dad ordered! Have mom make one of those herbal remedies.  Drink some green tea!  DO SOMETHING!”

“Shut UP LYRIC!”

Tonight was movie night at the Lakes’ home.  Leo chose a movie about camping, clearly still going to bat for his dad.  However after the movie, when the last three Lakes children were sleeping in their beds, Alex walked out to shore with Larry not far behind her.  As it turns out, she wasn’t falling out of love with the mountains.  The mountains introduced her to love, how could she?  Truth is, she felt guilty, she felt ashamed.  She was sorry that she was no longer whole. She was sorry for the pain she caused her family. She didn’t deserve….

“Everything feels so different now” she would often tell Larry not quite knowing what specifically was different. 

Larry didn’t know what to say other than he loved her, he supported her and she was complete to him.  In fact, without her, it was HE who wouldn’t be complete.  He’d simply fall to pieces….

He whispers…. “Who will put me back together Alex?”

Lauren wanted to be angry with her father but she couldn’t. She was too sad to worry about how he happened to be at the same cafe at the same exact time her boyfriend’s inner asshole revealed itself.  Instead, she confided in him.  She loved Mike.  She wanted to have the same thing her dad had with her mother.  True love.  But today was Lauren’s day to face blunt realities from the men in her life.  Larry explained to her that she was not doing herself any favors by waiting around for a man to marry her.  She was too young, too smart, too talented.  It wasn’t her fault.  After reassuring her, Larry reminded her that he would still snap Mike’s neck if he hurt her, but…. his focus now is on his wife (he caught himself getting choked up and took a moment)…

“I love you Lauren, you’re living your own life now.  I won’t always be there every time.  Be smart in your choices like your mother taught you and showed you.  We’ll always be here for you.  Even when magic-Mike decides he’s too pussy to spend the rest of his life with the likes of you.  Come by soon, your mom made pie.”

Tension between Mike and Lauren had been mounting as of late.  Lauren simply refused to stop talking about marriage.  She had every right.  Mike however was getting tired of the non-stop barrage of complaints from his girl.  Mike figured it was time to be blunt.  Not only was he not ready, he didn’t think he’d ever be ready.  He didn’t care if she “wanted what her parents have” or if this “playing house shit is getting old” or the “Mike pick up your goddamn socks”.  He was tired of it frankly.

“And if you can’t deal? Lauren, if you can’t deal, I will pack my shit and go back to my uncle’s until you can find something ELSE to talk about”

Unfortunately, Mike had no idea of the level to which he had fucked up.

Whenever Alex needed to be convinced of something, Larry could always count on his boys to back him.  These days they officially out-numbered the girls in the house.  Larry’s plan? To get Alex back to the mountains.  You see, Larry had already told Alex about the land he bought in the mountains for her 40th birthday.  However, since her surgery, and over the last couple of years she had forgotten.  They were approaching yet another wedding anniversary and Larry wanted to show her where they’d be spending their golden years.  Alex wasn’t so sure.  For the first time ever (as far as Larry could remember), Alex wasn’t immediately ready to jump on the plane.  She needed some convincing.  Perhaps she didn’t trust her health.  Perhaps she had lost her love for the mountains……

In any case, it brought poor Larry’s spirits down as he was left to wonder.

Wednesday with the Lakes.

The past couple of months were brutal in terms of recovery for Alex.  Only recently had she gained back full strength in her legs.  Being the wellness guru that she was, she took extra time to let her body do what it needed.  She healed with meditation, nature, herbal teas, soaks, the moon and love.

Alex is finally back.

Lauren was loving life off the island.  The air was so different on the mainland.  It was much easier to breathe. She had begun her garden, something she was really excited about and Mike had started online classes.  They made ends meet by relying on Mike’s financial aid (and random loans from Larry).  Speaking of Mike, while claiming he loved her, he still wasn’t ready for marriage.  Lauren was pretty good at reminding him that she wouldn’t settle for anything less.  But see, Mike had gotten comfortable with their relationship just the way it was….

The only problem seemed to be remembering to protect themselves.  Many a night things got so heated that Lauren and Mike didn’t even bother with the little square packages strewn across their bedroom floor (compliments of Larry of course).

Catching up with Koi

Since moving out on her own, Koi was able to sell enough  art to purchase her mother’s old home on the beach.  College wasn’t her calling, art was.  Well, art AND finding her soulmate.  She and Jeremiah were becoming very close  although Koi wasn’t yet comfortable with  the idea of living together just yet. He visited her every day after his shift at the bistro.  He had already fallen in love with her (and the cooking skills she inherited from her mother).

Alex spent her first night home in the arms of her husband, not wanting to let him go.  Larry let her drift to sleep as he teased her about her newly gray tresses.  Her hoarse laughs bringing him joy and heartache at the same time.  The gray wasn’t from her 40s, however, like his were.  They came from the stresses her body had to endure….. he kissed each one like she’d had them forever.

“Nice to finally meet you mommy”

Welcome Home Alex

Still very weak and under heavy dosages of medication, Alex has been given her discharge papers.  She is free to return home.  She will be leaving the hospital missing a very important part of her.  A part of her that grew and nourished five children.  Knowing that Larry had donated large amounts of his own blood to help save her life filled that void. Although she hadn’t quite come to terms with this she just wanted to see her babies and sleep in her own bed with her husband.

“Are you sure you’re ready?”

“I’m positive.”

Lauren and Koi were making sure the twins were fed and happy.  The two made their way to see them every day.  The twins had been excused from school for a week given the circumstances.  Lyric was particularly happy about the fact that their mother was awake and walking. They were all hoping that their dear mom would be home very, very soon.

After all, it’s almost Leo’s birthday.

Alex is making progress.  No matter how painful that may be.

With some encouragement from her big sister, Lyric decided to go see their mom.  Since Lauren was the oldest, the hospital was calling her for updates.  After Larry got into the fight with the nurse he received a 24 hour ban from the hospital.  Since he refused to leave, Lauren parked across the street and let her dad sleep in the backseat.  When Lyric got to her mother’s room she tried eating and finishing up her homework.  She told Alex all about baby Leo’s milestones, how her garden was doing and she even asked how to pay the bills.  She eventually fell asleep next to her mother .

Although there was no verbal response from Alex, I’m almost certain she heard every word….   .

The nursing staff at Newcrest Level 1 Trauma Center tried encouraging Larry to get outside and get some air.  Larry hadn’t slept in days nor had he eaten much.  The staff had grilled hot dogs today…. You see, what the nursing staff failed to realize was Larry had a very short fuse, made worse by his wife’s condition which didn’t seem to be improving.

The hospital administrator was sympathetic to Larry and came out to take him back to his wife, but not before Alex’s nurse caught an attitude that Larry helped her to get rid of.

Hospital security called Lyric yet again.

“We… we brought you some things daddy. Daddy?”

Larry did not speak but silently stood up and went into the bathroom. 

Koi went into shock immediately and dropped to the floor. The room started spinning for both of them as they caught a glimpse of their mother who looked dead to them.

Lauren almost held it together.  Almost.  She wanted to be strong for her dad, she couldn’t look toward the bed for more than a glance.  She tried so hard to keep it together…

But then Koi began to pray.

All the Lakes children were finally together.  Not much was said.  Lyric took the lead to explain to Lauren and Koi the status of their mother.  LJ couldn’t be of much help.  He had been locked in his room since everything happened.  No one quite knew what to say.  No one really stopped to think about next steps.  All they knew was they knew nothing.  Lauren was inconsolable…..

Koi finally determined that the youngest two should stay home with baby Leo.  They would take turns visiting the hospital.  Their father hadn’t been home in two days now so the oldest would take him some food, clothes, soap, toothpaste and deodorant first.  After making the decision, Koi didn’t know if she was ready to see her parents like this.  Lyric said hospital security called.  Larry wouldn’t eat and refused to leave Alex’s side.  They had to carry him to the waiting area during surgery.

Everyone was a mess.

“Calm down Lyric, start from the beginning….”

Massive internal bleeding.  Severe post-partum hemorrhaging.  Emergency hysterectomy. Critical condition.

“Please come, please come… they’re saying they don’t know if…”

Should have gotten to the hospital at the first signs of labor.  Mr. Lakes when did you find her? Why wasn’t the ambulance called sooner? She should never have gotten pregnant. Mr. Lakes?

“Daddy’s there, he won’t leave.  I don’t know, I’m scared…”

Low blood pressure.  Faint pulse. Labored breathing. She needs blood.    Sir, we need you to go to the waiting area…… Sir?

“PLEASE HURRY!”

“Don’t leave us. Please don’t leave us.  We’re not ready yet.  I can’t do this without you baby.  I love you.  Breathe Alex…. Come on….”

Yet another very intense labor for Alex.  Although she was quite savvy when it came to homebirth, she was still worried given her age and the words from her doctor.  Larry was afraid too.  Always supportive, however this time he insisted they get to the hospital right away.  Alex wouldn’t hear of it and said she’d have the baby herself. Without his help if she had to.  Larry knew it was just fear that made Alex snap so he calmed himself and followed her to the nursery….

It was the most beautiful experience….

Welcome to the Island!

Leo Lynx Lakes

Born at 2:58 in the morning weighing 8 pounds and 2 ounces. Leo is 22 inches tall.  Congratulations on your beautiful boy Alex and Larry!

Lawrence and Alexandria Lakes had a little fun with the photographer this time as they celebrated their miracle baby.  Called such because Alex’s doctor swore she wouldn’t have more after the twins.  These photos will soon hang on their walls as a symbol of making the impossible possible.

Baby will be here soon, good luck you two.

Alex had quite a busy day today.  Not only did she snatch the edges off the kitchen this morning, she also served up some sweet potato pie for the twins.  Quality time with Lyric and LJ was much needed after Koi’s departure.  This evening she put the finishing touches on her nursery where she tried out a very minimalist style that reminded her of the mountains.

A very productive day for Alexandria Marina Oceana Lakes.

New recipe at level 9 of the baking skill: Chocolate souffle.

And just like that, she was gone.

Koi is such a humble girl.  She didn’t want the big party.  She didn’t want the gifts.  She didn’t even want to wake up her dad who had been up all night creating a mobile app for Simsung.  All she wanted was her mother’s home made chocolate cake and a quiet birthday.  Graduation came and went quietly.  Just the way Koi wanted.  Now, at the age of 18, she is ready to move out into the world….

Why in the world would Larry be out jogging in The Springs? Clearly, he has a sixth sense for these things…..

FINALLY!

Koi met a boy.  Jeremiah is his name.   Koi could not be more happy.

Well done Koi, well done.

Lauren was putting the pressure on Mike.  What she wanted was a ring and Mike was clearly not ready. They weren’t even out of college yet! In order to divert the conversation, he relied on his charisma and the fact that all it took was for him to flirt with her to get her mind off of the more serious discussions.  Mike was a bit jealous too, so flirting with her was also a means of letting the men in the cafe know to stay the hell away.  While all of this was going on, Lauren paid attention to a strange woman who came in staring at her man, and the wall…. perhaps she was trying listen in on the conversation.  Perhaps she loved the paint color.  Lauren didn’t care to find out and rushed Mike out of there.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

@maimouth Lauren’s new hair? LIFE.

Alex did not come to play. She came to slay. All day. Okay?

A surprise stop in a neighboring town greeted Alex as they returned from the mountains.  Larry had picked the perfect spot to celebrate and watch the sunset. Welcome to middle age sweet Alex.

Happy Birthday.

Lawrence and Alexandria Lakes will be returning to the island in the morning. On their last night in the mountains, Larry surprises Alex with an early birthday gift.  As it turns out, Larry wasn’t just helping the Ranger clear away brush and chop down dead trees. He was also purchasing the land that brush and those trees were on.  Larry made sure that he and his wife had a permanent home away from home in the mountains.

The gift was very well received.

Meanwhile, Koi, LJ and Lyric were enjoying having the house to themselves even if their mother called 37 times a day to check on them.  Lauren and Mike were enjoying being young, in love and free.  The two spent most of their time shopping, eating out and making out in public.

By their third night in the mountains Alex was back to her old self.  She swore to Larry that she wouldn’t let things get so bad again, especially when the cure was a quick trip to their favorite place.

That evening they discussed how Alex wished to celebrate her birthday.

The mountains served as the perfect medicine for Alex’s downed spirits.  Larry was aware of the healing properties of nature so he left Alex to receive its therapy while he and the ranger cleared some brush and chopped down some dead trees. 

It didn’t take Alex long to come around.

Alexandria is coming out of her darkness

That same evening, Larry booked their flight to the mountains.  He wasted no time.  One thing is for certain: Larry will do anything for his wife.  He’d sacrifice his own life if he had to.

You’re a good man Larry Lakes.

The kids weren’t clueless.  They talked about it in health class. There were hotline numbers hung on the walls in the cafeteria for people to call who felt depressed.  Even though they knew, it didn’t take their hurt away.  They weren’t used to seeing their mother like this.  They hurt.

Larry hurt even more.  Alex was distant again, her eyes swollen and raw.  He came to her in silence.  It wasn’t that he didn’t know what to say, he knew silence was healing.  Alex taught Larry that they can share energy without saying a word so he simply shared his energy.  They sat without speaking for hours until she whispered for him to “come here”.

He gathered her into his arms, she was limp and warm.

He looked into her puffy eyes as a hoarse and distressed voice, barely a whisper pierced his heart…

“Take me back to the mountains …”

Dark clouds moved in and hung low over Alex. Life’s inevitable changes have brought her down again.  So very far down…