Episode 161: Two Collided Timelines
“So, the Planeson’s are a privileged family. Now that I didn’t see coming,” Dustin pointed out.
“Don’t tell Judith I told you. She hates it when I remind her about it.”
“Really? You just gave me joke ammunition to tease her for a good long while, hehe.”
“By the way…” Robin continued, as Dustin put his cup in the sink and went to the fridge to get a snack. “How did you and Judith meet? As far as I know you never traveled that far back in time; nor did Judith ever travel to your time.”
“Yeah, that’s a good question,” Dustin replied as he pulled out a plate of crepes.
“Well,” he continued sitting down, while Robin stood up to move closer. “The farthest into the future Dad took us was to year 2029. I was a teenager then.”
“Dad had a mission, so we stayed there a while. It turned out Judith’s family had traveled to that same 2029 as well for work. Her dad and my dad met, Judy and a friend of hers enrolled in the same high school as me. That’s where we met, then we became sweethearts and graduated together.”
“True, now I remember. She came back all excited, telling me about her handsome boyfriend from the Past”, Robin teased.
“That’s how she described me, as a ”boyfriend from the past’?”
“Don’t forget ‘handsome’.”
“Oh, come on”.
“Seriously, that’s what she said. And then she convinced me to go to college in 2014 with her, you and your sister Juliette”.
“And that’s how our timelines collided”.
“Yep, the rest is history.”
“A story with so many twists and turns”.
“Tell me about it”, Robin sighed.
Episode 162. Out-of-this-World Technology
“Well, those crepes are good, but there are a couple of things more I want to discuss with you”, Dustin said. “Mind if we go up to my studio, we’ll be more comfortable there”.
“Sure, but – I’m not taking up your time? I wouldn’t want you to get in trouble with Judy”.
“Nah, she must be sweeping up merchandise from the stores now, I bet she doesn’t even remember me”.
Once upstairs, Robin asked Dustin for the flash drive with the document to see if, once without the pressure he’d been under the night he had fled, he could find a way to unlock it himself.
“Hm, nope”, he said after examining the files on the holo-computer. “I don’t think I could unlock this. It’s too complex, I’d say it’s not even from this planet.”
“Not from Planet Earth, you mean?”
“I’m talking alien technology.”
“WOW, 2054 sounds a lot more interesting than I thought.”
“You’d be surprised”.
“Why, did you finally discover that there’s extra-terrestrial life? Have you made contact with them?
“Sorry, I’m not authorized to give out that information.”
“More state secrets. Huh?”
“It’s just Time Traveler’s rules can’t talk about certain events”, Robin replied, leaving the holo-computer aside.
“Bummer, now I’ll have to wait 37 years to find out… Anyway, I hope my dad can bypass this alien security.”
“We still don’t know if that’s really it. In any case Captain Shen will tell us, he must know more about this than we do.”
Episode 163. Security Threat
“You know,” Dustin said, after he was able to control his excitement. “I’m beginning to think this whole persecution isn’t because of how many kids you had or the ‘methods’ you used to do so.”
“No? And why is it then?”
“I don’t know, but it must be a sufficiently serious reason to issue an arrest warrant.”
“True, arrest warrants aren’t common in Oasis Landing, hardly anyone commits crimes there; no robberies, no murders, nobody does anything illegal cause they don’t need to. The police are there just to assist the citizens, and in case there’s a riot or something.
“People still riot there?”
“A few, from time to time, yes”.
“But no one is arrested in such riots, no one gets arrested at all, unless the Council thinks you’re some kind of security threat”.
“So, you’re considered a security threat now, why?”
“For violating population laws, I guess?”
“That’s bullsh*t.”
“My guess is there’s something about you, your genes specifically, that interests them”.
“You’re saying there might be something threatening in my DNA?”
“Could be. Why else would there be so much secrecy about who your parents are or what happened to them? No one has ever talked about it with you, not even Emit, why?”
“I have no idea.”
“Neither do I, but I still have questions.”
“For one thing, if your mom and dad are alive, why aren’t they with you? The answer I can think of is, because there’s something in their genes that turned them into a security threat, something you naturally inherited, and now you are concern to the authorities to the point of wanting to arrest you. That could be this ‘secret of state’ that Emit won’t talk about.”
“That makes sense, but – what could be wrong with my parents’ and my DNA? I mean, I am normal, at least that’s how I’ve felt my whole life for as long as I can remember.”
“Except after the accident with the portal, right?”
“Right!”
Episode 164. Willing Guinea Pig
“Since I crash landed with the portal I’ve experienced some really weird stuff,” Robin added.
“You should keep a journal of those things,” Dust suggested.
“I do, I keep records of every change to study them later.”
“Really? Sounds interesting, would you let me read it?”
“Sure, I have it in the car, I’ll give it to you before I leave.”
“Super, thanks, bud.”
“In addition, we could take a sample of your DNA and analyze it to see if you’ve undergone any, you know, mutations? Maybe we’ll discover something important, like your genes aren’t human, or that you came from another planet, can you imagine?”
“I haven’t really given that much thought”.
“But if that was the case it would be a great finding, don’t you think? Ah, I can’t wait to get started!”
“If you’re willing to donate the blood sample, that is.” Dustin finished.
“Sure, why not?”
“Okay, we’ll do that as soon as Dad unlocks the document – and after the wedding. I can’t afford to do experiments now; Judith would kill me.”
“Easy, Dust, we’ll do it whenever you can,” Robin smiled.
“Seriously, would you let me take your DNA?” Dustin asked, when he managed to control his enthusiasm.
“Sure, I totally trust you as a scientist.”
“Er — I’m a scientist, yes, but I specialize in inanimate matter, Juliette and Mom are in the biology field, though, they’d be better suited for that”.
“Oh, okay”.
“But thanks for the vote of confidence,” Dustin smiled.
“You’re most welcome,” Robin smiled back at him.
Episode 165. A Best Man from the Future
“Oh, and speaking about vows”, Dustin continued, a bit less confident. “I was wondering if you would like to be my best man?”
“Your what?” Robin asked.
“Best man, dude, at my wedding.”
“You know, the groom’s friend who accompanies him to the ceremony, leads the toast and gives a drunken speech that ruins the wedding?”
Robin laughed nervously. “You mean you want me to ruin your wedding?”
“Forget it, I was kidding”.
“Good, because I don’t want to ruin your special day, plus I’ve never been drunk.”
“Really? That’s unusual for a guy your age, don’t tell me, alcohol is forbidden again in 5024”.
“Only for Time Travelers”.
“”I see… Anyway, the best man is a tradition. It’s usually the groom’s best friend. In my case you are my best friend, if not the only one, so you’re the right person,” Dustin concluded.
“And what does a best man do, besides drinking and ruining a celebration?”.
“Nothing really, just stand by my side during the ceremony, and say that speech during the toast.”
“The toast part sounds simple. The speech… not so much. Public speaking has never been my thing, not to mention I’ve never been to a wedding, except my own, but I didn’t have a toast, let alone a best man.”
“Don’t worry, this will be a small ceremony, with just family and a few close friends.”
“Well then, I’ll gladly be your best man. Although, I have no experience at all with weddings”.
“What, no weddings in Oasis Landing?”
“We haves marriage, but no wedding celebrations, at least not like you have here.”
“You mean there are no vows, no rings, not even a cake??”
“Oh, there’s definitely cake, but there is no romantic side, it’s just paperwork. You ask for a permission from the Council, if they give it to you, you sign a temporary marriage certificate, which you can renew every so often if both spouses wish to do so. The marriage lasts as long as the couple wants it to, if it doesn’t work out, they file for a separation and they go their own ways.”
“Just like that? No lawyer, no court, no fighting for children’s custody?”
“Nope. All those terms are stated in an agreement you sign as well when you get married “.
“Wow, that’s kind of cold… and very civil, I guess.”
“It probably is”, Robin sighed.
Episode 166. Up and Running
“I see the portal is up and running again,” Robin said looking into the backyard.
“Oh, yes, it’s ready to use. Do you wanna go see it?”, Dustin asked.
“What’s the point if I can’t even use it”.
“Don’t worry, you’ll be able to time travel again after you talk to Emit. Come on, we’ll take a look from the terrace”.
“There you have it, in all its glory, a little snow covered, but overall, it’s looking good”, Dustin said.
“It’s running like new. I repaired it myself. Only I couldn’t test it with everything I have going on. Which is a shame, cause I’d love to go with you into the future – if Emit authorizes it of course”.
“Don’t worry, by the time Emit comes – if he comes at all – you’ll probably be back from your honeymoon”.
“I highly doubt that, cause I plan on it being very long, hehe.”
“I can imagine,” Robin chuckled. “Well, I think my visit has gone on long enough, so I’ll get you the journal from the car and let you get on with your day,” he added.
But Dustin still had a lot of questions and a thing or two he felt it necessary to tell him.
Episode 167. Modern Love
“Yeah, it is working alright, I can see the energy flowing from side to side, just like it should.” Robin said, after taking one last look at the portal.
“It wasn’t hard at all to fix; these artifacts are so predictable.”
“Well, this one wasn’t so much last time.” Robin sighed. “I’ll test it another day. I’ll just bring you the journal and I’ll be on my way.”
“Hold on, I got another question…”
“You said marriage in the future is just paperwork. What about love and passion, are those allowed there? I ask because Judith and I have considered going to live in Oasis Landing after we get married.”
“I see. Well, love in 2054 is an outdated concept, a thing of the past, and sometimes a mental health issue, like… some sort of temporary insanity, so to speak.”
“Wow”. Dustin stood baffled.
“Now, if by passion you mean sex, that is allowed. In fact, it’s recommended – for adults, naturally, and it’s exclusively for entertainment, not for procreation. So as long as you don’t use it to produce children, and you’re consenting adults, whether single of married, you don’t need a ‘permission’ to have sex”.
“Phew, thank goodness,” Dustin sighed.
“Yep. Some things never change, thankfully.”
They both chuckled.
Episode 168. “Aurora Skies, we Have a Problem”
“Okay then, back to the present, you agree to be my best man, right?” Dustin pressed.
“Sure, I’ll be there.”
“Great, because Juliette is going to be Judy’s maid of honor.”
“Maid of honor?”
“It’s the same concept as the best man, but with girls. You and Jul will sit together during the ceremony, and when it’s over you can chat, dance together, even talk about your stuff and settle all your pending issues. What do you think?”
“Sounds great, and I’d certainly love to be next to Jul all the time, but – to be honest, I don’t think I’ll be able to stay long after the ceremony, you know, because of Ann.”
“What, you haven’t talked to her? Heck, you’ll have to do it before the wedding, because I definitely want you, Juliette and Rowan together in all the pictures.”
“Well, then I guess I’ll fast forward my talk with Ann.”
“Yes, that’ll be perfect!”
“Although… maybe not that perfect”, Dustin retracted. “We still have a little problem…”
Episode 169. Interstellar Policeman
“What kind of problem?” Robin asked, seeing Dustin had suddenly gone speechless.
“Well… it might not be exactly a problem, but I feel it’s my duty to tell you”.
“Well then stop beating around the bush and just tell already.”
“Okay, do you remember Gilon Mannin, Juliette’s ex-boyfriend?”
“I remember she had an ex-boyfriend, though I never met him and didn’t even remember his…”
“Wait, Gilon Mannin?” Robin got startled.
“Yes, you know him?”
“Not in person, but I know who he is, Sergeant Gilon Mannin, from the Interstellar Police.”
“Do they have an Interstellar Police in 2054?”
“Yes, why, don’t you have one?”
“In 2017? Good God, no, we’re not on that page yet. There are a couple of rich lunatics launching rockets, that’s all. But I admit soon we’re gonna need someone to bring order to outer space.”
“You certainly should. You wouldn’t want to be in for some surprises 10 years from now.”
“Oh – what do you mean?”
“Sorry, but I’m not…”
“You’re ‘not authorized to tell me anything’, much less if there’s intelligent life out there in space, I suppose. Anyway, as I was telling you…”
“It turns out that Gilon, the ‘interstellar cop’, is one of Judy’s best friends, they’ve known each other since they were kids and have time traveled together. In fact, that’s how they both met Juliette, and then Gil and my sister, well… you know”.
“I see,” Robin sighed. He couldn’t deny it, hearing about Gilon, Juliette’s famous ex-boyfriend, made him uncomfortable. So, this was what jealousy felt like? Cause it wasn’t fun at all…
Oblivious to the new sentiment that gripped his friend’s heart, Dustin continued:
“Judith invited Gilon to the wedding without consulting me, or Jul for that matter. I complained to her, but you know Judy, you can’t say no to her, so there was nothing to be done and now we’ll have this unwanted guest from 2054.”
“Damn”.
“Yeah, I hope you take it with a grain of salt. See, Gilon is a nice guy, he’s aware of what happened between you and Jul, that you have a son and stuff. I just thought I’d warn you of this cause he will be staying here at the headquarters, and cause, well, he may or may not bring intentions of… you know, getting Juliette back”, Dustin ended cautiously.
But his words still were too much for Robin.
“Gilon wants Jul back, you say? I’m sorry, but that’s not gonna happen, Juliette is mine, okay?” He snapped. Dustin didn’t know whether to worry or laugh.
“Hey, easy, buddy. No one’s saying that’s actually going to happen. Plus, Jul is most likely not interested. She loves you; I know that for a fact, man”.
Robin rectified immediately after his outburst.
“I-I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to snap back at you. What I meant was it’s not fair for Gilon to try to take advantage of the situation to take Juliette away from me. Plus, she won’t even have to consider going back to him, cause I’m marrying her as soon as I get out of this mess”.
“Don’t worry, buddy, I totally understand. This news must be shocking, and the effect of the drugs from the drugs in the bracelet probably wore off, so that may be the reason for these kind of mood changes.”
“Is it that obvious?”.
“Yeah, but I tell you there’s no problem with me. Besides, you’re right, what Gilon is trying to do is unfair, but don’t worry, I’m rooting for you.”
“Thanks, Dust.”
“Now let’s hope Gill being a cop isn’t a problem, you know, because of the arrest warrant?”
“Judy said the warrant was suspended. Besides, by the time Gilon and I see each other’s faces, everything will have been resolved, or so I hope.”
“I hope so too, I don’t want anything to ruin the wedding for Judith”.
“Don’t worry, I at least will behave myself”, Robin answered more calmly.
“I apologize if I upset you with such bad news, but I thought I should warn you of what you might encounter at the party”.
“That’s okay, in fact I appreciate it. I don’t know about you, but I don’t like surprises, especially if they have to do with Mannin and the Interstellar Police, they’re usually trouble for us time travelers”.
“Really? How so?”
“All of us, cops and travelers, studied at the same Academy, but we’re definitely not the same. Travelers are peace people, time and history keepers; interstellars are the military elite, if you know what I mean.”
“I get it”.
“Anyway, thanks for the heads up. This is a very interesting talk, but I really should go now. I gotta get to the Emporium to sell my plumbots, customers are waiting to buy, and I really could use their money.”
“Sure, go ahead. And any help you need with the plumbots or anything else, I’m here.”
“Thanks, Dust, and to your dad as well for helping me with the files.”
Dustin thought Robin might need a hug after the awful news. To his surprise, Robin reciprocated just as warmly. There was no longer any doubt that he was changing, and for the better.
“You’re most welcome, bud. I’ll call you as soon as we have something.” he replied.
“Well, I’ll wait for your call… Oh, I almost forgot. The journal! I’ll go to the car and get it. I won’t be long.”
“Okay.”
In no time at all, Robin was back with an ordinary notebook, nothing like his other advanced devices.
“Here it is, I hope you find it useful, never mind my bad handwriting,” he joked.
“Oh, it’s okay. Scribbling aside, I’m sure what I’m about to read will be more than interesting.”
“Rather unusual, I’d say.”
“Well, bye now. Good luck to you and greetings to the captain and also to…”
“Juliette? Sure, I’ll tell her, thanks,” Dustin replied.
Robin flushed and without another word, he ran out of the house.
“Good luck to you too, with everything!” Dustin shouted lastly as he watched him head to his car.
Once alone, he let out a sigh. He felt as light as a feather after having told Rob about Gilon. Now it still remained to tell Juliette about the interstellar policeman. Such a vexing endeavor, fortunately, would not fall on him, but on Judith.
“Yeah, good luck with that, Jude.”
Episode 170. The Code
Spring 2017, the Shens’ house, high noon...
“Dust, what took you so long?”
“I had a contingency. Robin came home unannounced, he wanted to talk to me.”
“About Juliette I suppose.”
“No, he got my sister’s message clearly and has been keeping his distance. He wanted to talk about the document I brought you, but I took the opportunity to ask him to be my best man.”
“Great, and did he accept?”
“Luckily, yes.”
“Good, now the ceremony will be complete”.
“Yeah. Oh, by the way, he sends you greetings”.
“Thank you, give him my greetings too when you have a chance”.
“Sure. Okay, I’m in a bit of a hurry, I gotta meet Judy at the mall, so let’s get down to business.”
“Of course, let’s take a look at that file while you explain what it’s all about.”
As briefly as he could, Dustin informed Dylan all about Robin’s document; he also told him about Robin’s journal and its contents.
“A journal, that sounds interesting, what does it say?”
“It’s a record of the changes Robin has undergone since his accident with the portal. I couldn’t read it yet, because I was in a hurry, in fact I’m one hour late, but I’ll start reading it tonight and I’ll fill you in”.
“Well, if you’re in a hurry, that can wait, now let’s see the file”.
A FEW MINTUES LATER.
“So, you want me to hack the document?” Dylan asked when Dustin finished his explanation.
“That’s right, do you think you can do it?”
“Well, I’ll give it my best shot.”
“You don’t mind if it’s illegal?”
“Of course I mind, I don’t want any trouble with the Oasis Landing authorities, but I’m interested as well in Robin solving his problem, the sooner he does, the sooner he’ll be able to give Juliette and my grandson the home they need.”
“That’s true”.
“Okay, let’s see what I can do”.
“Thank you, Dad, I knew you wouldn’t let me down.”
“Never”. Dylan said, inserting the flash drive into the computer and clicking on the document. “Now, let’s see what we have here.”
A FEW CLICKS LATER…
“M-hm,” Dylan mumbled.
“What? Did you get anything?” Dustin asked eagerly.
“Not yet. This code is kind of strange, nothing like what I’ve worked with before”.
“So, you won’t be able to decipher it?”
“Oh, no, I will. I just need to identify it first. It may be a bit laborious, but if all goes well, I’ll unlock the document in a few hours and hopefully, I’ll have something for you by tomorrow”.
“Really? That’s perfect!”
“Uh, I should go now, Judith must be impatient”.
“Yes, yes, go ahead, don’t keep her waiting.”
“Again, thank you so much, Dad”, Dustin said, as he hurried to the door.
“You’re welcome, son. I’ll call you as soon as I get something.”
Dustin left the studio, Dylan got down to work.
“Well, the first thing is to identify the type of code and then I crack the password, it’ll be a piece of cake… Hm, yes, it’s a different coding than the ones we use here and even in Oasis Landing. It looks very advanced, but kind of familiar too…”
“Wait – Is this what I think it is? But why would they use this language to lock their documents? Maybe they thought it would be safer this way, maybe it wasn’t the Council who locked it? I’m probably just seeing things, I should ask Karen, she knows a lot more about this stuff that I do.”
Episode 171. A Little Late Date
AURORA SKIES, CUISINE AND CONTRACTS BUSINESS PARK, ALMOST 2:00 P.M.
Two hours later than scheduled, Dustin climbed the steps to the mall entrance and made it to the esplanade, where Judith was waiting for him.
“Well, I’m here,” he said, still out of breath after his run from the parking lot.
He rushed to hug her; Judith reciprocated the embrace but did not kiss him as she usually did.
“You’re over an hour late,” she told him, pouting.
“I know, I’m sorry, but the conversation with Robin was kind of long. And then I had to stop by the captain’s house, you know about Robin’s document?” Dustin apologized at once.
” Of course, anything to do with Robin is more important than me,” Judith reproached.
“Baby, what are you saying? Of course not. Come on forgive me already, I’ll make it up to you.”
“You better.”
“Okay, why don’t we go inside, so you can continue with your shopping?”
“I already bought everything I needed, the packages are in the car, I was just about to go home.”
“Well, now I’m here, so how about we have lunch and then I’ll take you for a tour around town. There are many places you haven’t seen yet.”
“Hm, I’ll take the deal, because I’m starving, but don’t even think I’ll forget you stood me up for Robin.”
“It won’t happen again, I promise. From here to the wedding, I’m all yours.”
“You’ve said that a thousand times since I arrived and at the drop of a hat you get distracted by anything, especially if it’s about Robin.
“Jud, what have you always said about jealousy, hm? Besides, you know well that, romantically speaking, I’m only interested in you,” Dustin replied, leaning closer. Judith let out a sigh and her eyes filled with love again.
“Okay, I’ll take the lunch and the tour as temporary compensation, but when we get home, you’ll pay me back in full”.
“Sounds like a great plan to me,” Dustin replied.
That was like music in Judith’s ears, and her little displeasure was forgotten with a long, loving kiss.
Episode 172. Lunch by the Sea
With their lunch already in hand, Dustin and Judith went to find a table outside the mall.
The breeze was a bit chilly, but the sun was shining in all its splendor, they hadn’t seen it shine like that in many months and Judith loved to be near the sea, so it was worth sitting out there, despite the cold, which, at least Dustin was used to, and Judith didn’t even seem to notice.
“So? What did the captain tell you, will he be able to crack the document?”
“It seems to be so. He may have an answer for me tomorrow, although he said something about a code unknown to him”.
Judith stopped eating.
“Unknown? You mean not from the Earth?”
Now it was Dustin who stopped munching.
“What do you mean ‘not from the Earth’?
As indiscreet as she usually was, Judith knew that saying certain things would get her into trouble.
“Uh, forget it, I was rambling”, she replied after a few hesitant seconds. “Your father will surely find out what it is and will inform us. Better tell me, did you talk to Robin about the wedding?”
Dustin blinked, Judith’s words had piqued his curiosity, but the mention of Robin’s name, as always, managed to divert his attention.
“Yep”, he replied “I asked him to be my best man, and he agreed”,
“Cool.”
“I also told him about Gilon.”
“Oh, and how did he take it?”
“Not great, but at least he’s been warned”.
“How about you? Did you get a chance to tell Juliette?”, Dustin asked.
“Not yet. She couldn’t come today, work stuff, the kid, and so on. But maybe we’ll see each other sometime this week and then I’ll tell her.”
“Good.”
Episode 173. Early Visit
Aurora Skies, the early morning hours.
Robin arrived at Juliette’s house just at dawn, but he didn’t want to wake her up or scare her, so he waited a few minutes outside until the sky cleared. As soon as he saw light inside, he went to knock on the door.
“Hi,” he said as she opened.
“Rob, h-hi,” she replied, surprised to see him there at such early hour.
“Sorry, is this a bad time?”, he asked.
“No, not at all, please come in,” she replied still hesitantly.
“I’m sorry, I should’ve called first”, Robin apologized.
“No, that’s okay. Dust told me you were coming; I just didn’t expect to see you so early, and I’m…”
“Alone? Don’t worry, I haven’t forgotten what you said last time. Besides, I have to be at the Bot Emporium at eight.”
“I have to go to work too, so how about we get started?”
“Sure, but…”
“Are you sure it’s, okay? I can come back another day if you want.”
“No, it’s fine, come on, my lab is upstairs.”
“Wait, is Rowan home?” Robin asked before heading for the stairs.
“Yes, but he’s still sleeping”.
“Can I see him?”
“If you promise not to make any noise.”
The two stood in front of Rowan’s crib for a few moments to watch him sleep.
“He’s grown since last time.” Robin said.
“Yeah, in less time than we think he’ll be heading off to college.”
“Well, I hope he does get to graduate,” Robin joked; they both giggled quietly.
“Well, now let’s hurry before he wakes up. Follow me.”
“It’s this way,” Juliette said, as she climbed the stairs and entered her lab. Robin quickly followed her.
Episode 174. The DNA Sample
“So, this is your lab”, Robin said looking around.
“Yes. Not as modern and well-equipped as yours, I suppose.”
“…But it will work for what we came here to do. Now, stand still for a moment, this will be quick.”
“Frankly, it’ll be hard to keep still with you in front of me,” Robin replied, gazing into her eyes.
“Rob – don’t look at me like that, okay?”
“Don’t look at you how?”
“Like that, something in your look, I can’t tell what it is, but it’s…”
“Forget it, let’s get started,” Juliette said, stepping aside and pulling out a device unfamiliar to Robin. “Okay, I just have to press this button and…” she muttered. To Robin, the artifact seemed somewhat rudimentary, but he trusted Juliette completely; plus, he was relieved that she had changed the subject, so he kept quiet and let her proceed.
“Here it comes,” Juliette announced.
“What’s coming…?” he asked.
“Woah! What the heck is that?” he exclaimed, stepping back as he saw a bright, chain-like beam of light shoot towards him from the device Juliette was holding.
“Hey, be careful where you point that thing,” he asked.
“Relax, it’s going to be fine, you won’t feel anything. Now stop moving, or I won’t be able to take the sample.”
“A-are you sure this is the right way to use that device?”
“Of course it’s the right way. I should know, and so should you, since this isn’t the first time you’ve been through this, right?”
“Right, but the RSL people used more advanced and invisible methods to collect my DNA.”
“Well, this method is quite visible, but painless. Just stop moving and you’ll be alright.”
“Okay, just hurry up, will you?”
“I’m going as fast as the device and your complaints let me.”
“Almost there…” Juliette mumbled, still scanning Robin’s body as the beam coming out of her device produced an unnerving buzzing sound. “Very well, now brace yourself, this is the hardest part, so take a deep breath. And here we go.”
With another buzz, the beam from Juliette’s peculiar instrument shot toward Robin’s face, dazzling him and making him feel a bit dizzy. Robin gasped.
“Great, now I can hardly see”, he complained.
“Sorry, dear, this is the trickiest part, but it’s the last of it, you’ll be okay, I swear,” Juliette apologized.
The device made all sorts of strange sounds and multicolored lines appeared on the screen, overlapping each other as the noises rose in intensity and speed.
“Wow, the analyzer seems to have gone crazy, it’s indicating multiple things at once.”
“W-what kind of things?” asked Robin.
“I barely understand, but, apparently, your DNA is ‘unknown’?”
“Is that a bad thing?”
“I couldn’t tell, but don’t worry, it’s probably just something with the analyzer, I don’t have much experience handling it. In any case my mother will find out and tell us.”
“But did you get the sample?”
“Yes”.
“Here it is. Now I just have to take out the test tube and send it to my mom,” Juliette announced excitedly.
“Is that my DNA?”
“Barely a small sample of it, but yes, it’s Robin Crane’s DNA”, Juliette said taking the test tube out of the analyzer.
“So that was all?”
“Yep. It was simple, wasn’t it?”
“Yeah, thank you”.
“You’re most welcome”.
“When will we get the results?”
“I don’t know, Mom is relatively quick, but it all depends on how much work she has and it also depend on the sample. It doesn’t seem to be a very common one.”
“Couldn’t you test it yourself, here and now?”
“I’m afraid not. I mean, I have the equipment, but not the expertise, plus I have to go to work. And you should leave too now,” Juliette warned him.
“You don’t have to remind me that I can’t be around you any more than I have to.”
“I’m sorry, Rob, but it’s the best for both of us.”
“I know and I understand, don’t worry.”
Episode 175. That Look
As they said goodbye, Robin and Juliette looked into each other’s eyes, this time longer. She knew he should leave now, but something in his gaze rendered her mute and frozen, as if suddenly her head and her body itself didn’t obey her.
He came closer, and his lips brushed hers. Again, Juliette fell prey to a mysterious force and could not move an inch.
Robin took her in his arms, and then the same force that had paralyzed her seconds before drew her closer, as if an invisible hand was pulling her toward him.
As soon as she felt both of them begin to lose control, she reacted, as if returning from a hypnotic trance, and snapped away.
“Rob, stop, please.”
“We made a pact, we must keep it,” she pleaded.
“I’m sorry, I got carried away, it won’t happen again I swear,” he replied.
“You better go now,” she whispered.
“The last thing I want to do is cause you distress, so okay, I’m going, but first tell me: do you want to come back with me, Jul?” Robin asked, looking her straight in the eye.
“Isn’t it obvious?” she claimed. “I’ve dreamed about it every night since we broke up, but…”
“Oh, my goodness,” she stammered.
“What is it?” he asked, puzzled.
“There it is, again,” he said, turning away. “Something in your look, I don’t know what it is, but you’ve got to stop looking at me like that, cause whenever you do I feel like I’m losing my mind.”
“Believe me, I’m not doing it on purpose… Didn’t Dustin show you my journal?””
“Not yet, but I’m hoping to read it soon, if you’ll let me, of course.”
“Sure, just promise me, that no matter what you read in it, you won’t walk away from me.”
“Of course I won’t, silly,” Juliette replied without hesitation. “Now you must go, I have to get ready for work, and send the sample to mom,” she added, after a deep sigh.
“Don’t worry, I’ll be on my way. Thank you for the sample and – for everything else.”
“You’re welcome,” she replied, blushing. “I’ll walk you to the door.”
Credits and thanks to Vågen for their poses Kiss me Like a Movie Star, and to Au fil de Sims for their Romance Pack poses.
Episode 176. Wakeup Call
“Oh, by the way, do you have a date for Rowan’s registration yet?” Robin asked, once downstairs.
“Yes, we’ll meet Saturday at noon, at City Hall. I warn you my mom will be going with us, just like she promised.”
“Oh -“.
“So, your mother still doesn’t trust me”, Robin said, already at the door.
“I don’t know how you can ask that, after what happened a while ago,” Juliette replied.
“I got carried away, it’s true, but I didn’t….”
“I’m not complaining, I got carried away too. It’s just, try to understand my mom, she just wants to protect me.” Robin heaved a sigh.
“I understand, I’ll see you guys on Saturday. Give Row a kiss for me and take care of yourself, dear.”
“You too, love,” Juliette answered on impulse.
As soon as Robin walked out, Juliette closed the door and let out a sigh.
“Love? Did I really call him that? Did I go crazy?” She muttered to herself.
“This time I really was close, I don’t know how much longer I will be able to resist his lips so close to mine, and then that look…”
Juliette’s thoughts were interrupted by the ringing of the phone in the living room.
Thanks to Au Fil de Sims for the Solitude and Mélancolie ChouSims Sims 3 Poses.
Episode 177. Pending Matters
“Yes?” Juliette answered, fearing it was her mother checking to see if Robin was there.
“Jul?”
“Oh – hi, Dust,” she replied, relieved to hear her brother’s voice.
“Hey, how’s it going, did you get the sample?”
“Yeah, I’m about to send it to Mom. By the way, you should have let me know Robin was coming so early.”
“Sorry, I just asked him to come, I have no control over his schedule. Anyway, I’m calling because Judy is at the mall right now and asked if she could see you, even for a few minutes.”
“Dust for God’s sake… I have to send in the test, take Rowan to Dad and, most importantly, I have to go to work.”
“And Judith knows that, so she won’t take much of your time, she just wants to meet Rowan and talk to you really quick about a certain matter.”
“What matter?”
“You’ll find out, so shall I tell her you’ll go?”
“All right,” Juliette sighed. “Tell her I’ll meet her there in fifteen minutes.”
Juliette hung up. She thought she knew what that matter Judith wanted to talk about. Their friendship, which had been put on hold when Judith had dropped out of college in solidarity with Robin after their breakup. They hadn’t spoken to each other since. Juliette didn’t blame Judith for leaving, she understood Robin was her best friend and she wanted to support him, but she couldn’t help feeling bitter about it. Now the time had come to face all that.
“Come on sweetie, we have to take daddy’s DNA sample to the hospital, go meet Aunt Judith, and then take you to grandpa’s so mommy can go to work.” Juliette said pulling Rowan out of the crib. In her haste, at least she had distracted herself from what had happened with Robin. Hopefully, the outing with Judith and work, would also serve as a distraction.
Episode 178. Like Father Like son
Aurora Skies, Cuisine and Contracts Business Park, a little after 9 am.
A light blanket of snow covered the streets and the square, the last snowfall of the season. Thankfully it wasn’t too cold anymore, since it was already spring, but 9 am was a little late for Juliette, since she had to report to work in a couple of hours and she still had to take Rowan to his grandparents’ house. As for the sample, she decided that she would give it to her mother at the hospital. It was 100% sure she would see her there, since that was where they both worked.
“Hey, Jul”, Judith exclaimed as she saw Juliette approach with Rowan in his stroller.
“Hi, Judith”, she replied, still shaken by the rush.
“I’m sorry I made you come without giving you proper notice, I know you’re busy, but I need to talk to you.”
“That’s okay, as long as it doesn’t take long”, Juliette warned her.
“Don’t worry, I’ll try to be brief,” Judith assured.
As soon as her eyes fell on the little Rowan, she let out a squeal, and pulled him out of the stroller to gaze at him.
“So this is Rowan? Oh, my goodness, he’s so cute!”
“Thanks”, Juliette smiled.
“How old is he?”
“A little over two, but he acts older,” Juliette replied excitedly.
“He’s very smart,” she continued, taking him back in her arms. “Mom says he’s sure to be a genius – like Dust,” she concluded.
Judith stared intently at Rowan, there was something in his gaze that confirmed Juliette’s mother’s predictions.
“I don’t doubt it in the least, you can tell by his look that he’s indeed super smart.”
“He’s also a very good boy”. Juliette added “He’s obedient, a little mischievous at times, but that’s because he’s twice as curious as the other children”.
“He learns everything quickly and immediately moves on to the next thing; he’s an extraordinary child, I’m so proud of him,” she concluded lovingly.
“And you’re right to be,” Judith remarked.
Judith asked for permission to hold Rowan again; she observed him once more carefully, and then….
“Hm, yes, there’s something special about him. Your mom is right, he’s sure to end up being a great scientist like Dust, and all the other Shens,” she stated.
“Plus, it needs to be said, he’s going to be drop-dead handsome too, you know, like father like son,” she joked.
“Yeah, I guess,” Juliette replied, losing her smile.
“Oops, sorry – did I bother you by making a reference to Robin’s looks? “If so, please tell me, I won’t do that again, I promise.” Judith apologized.
“It didn’t bother me, but – I’d rather you didn’t do it again”, Juliette replied, pulling Rowan out of Judith’s arms once more.
Judith seemed embarrassed for a few seconds. Then she let out a giggle.
“What is so funny?” Juliette asked.
“So, Dust was right, huh? You are jealous, but – girl, are you jealous of me? Come on, Robin is handsome, yes, but not like my Dustin. Plus, I know him since we were kids, we’re practically siblings, and I’d never…”
“Okay, I got your point”. Juliette cut her off. “Now, can we drop the subject, please?”
“Sure, first, just to be clear, there has never been or will be anything between Rob and I”.
“Good, thanks for the clarification.”
“You’re welcome, and again, excuse my recklessness”, Judith said, heartily.
This time it was Juliette who felt embarrassed.
“Please don’t. It’s me who should apologize”.
“Oh, not at all, I know I can be a pain sometimes”.
“It’s not you, I’ve just been a little nervous, that’s all.”
“Wanna talk about it?
“Yes, but – you had something important to tell me, didn’t you?
“That can wait, especially if you’re nervous. Come on, let’s sit down…”
Episode 179. Heart to Heart
They sat on a bench in the small park at the mall. Juliette set Rowan’s stroller aside where she could keep an eye on him.
“So, you met with Robin.”
“Yeah, he went to my house this morning, I mean, to my lab, for the DNA sample thing.”
“Right, and how was it?”
“The test went well, the rest – I’m still processing it.”
“The rest? You mean you guys -?”
“No, of course, but we had a close call. It’s not the first time. Every time I’m around him I find it harder to contain myself.”
“I imagine. And it saddens me you two can’t be together like you should.”
“Well, he promised me he would fix his situation, but I see that more and more far away and I’m starting to lose my mind. Really, I’m not myself when I’m in front of him, each time I seem him, all I want to do is hug him, kiss him, and… Sorry, I’m talking too much.”
“Oh, you can trust in me, that’s what friends are for”, Judith replied.
“Thanks, but we aren’t here to talk about me, you had something to tell me…”
“Yes.”
“Well, go ahead then.”
Judith thought for a few seconds.
“Actually, there are two topics I would like to talk about, but I’ll start with the more important one.” She stated.
“As long as you’re brief…”
“I promise to try.”
“Tell me, were you angry with me for standing by Robin and leaving college after you guys broke up?”
Juliette took a deep breath.
“As much as angry no, I was just hurt that, being my brother’s girlfriend, practically a part of the Shen family, you didn’t take my side.”
“Oh, I was on your side. And believe me I was very worried about you. But you had Dustin at that time to support you and take care of you.”
“Robin had no one, he was alone in a place and time totally unknown to him. Plus, he’s my best friend, I had to support him. I know I wasn’t entirely fair cause you’re my friend too; maybe I should have talked to Robin and convince him to stay, but the thing is I didn’t. And I’m worried you would think I didn’t care about you, because I do care about both you and Rob.”
“Jud, seriously, you don’t have to explain anything to me,” Juliette said, standing up and taking Rowan’s stroller back. “It wasn’t your fault. Clearly, I was the one who was wrong at the time, truth is I wasn’t very mature”.
“At that time, only thought about myself and my career, I considered it offensive that Robin wanted us to have children. But he didn’t do anything wrong, all he did was let me know his plans, and I just felt offended and threw him out of my life without even listening to his reasons.”
“I wasn’t ready to be a mother yet, that’s why I cut him off. And now look at me, in the end, I had his son. And the only thing I want now is to be with him, to build that family he wanted so much, but I’m afraid that isn’t possible anymore.”
“It is. You just told me Robin is willing to fix his situation, so let’s be positive, okay?”
“I’m trying to be, but it’s not easy with everything that’s going on…. Anyway, enough about me, now what was the other topic you wanted to talk to me about?”
Episode 180. Guess Who’s Just Arrived?
The “other topic” Judith wanted to talk certainly took Juliette by surprise, leaving her stunned, blinking in disbelief at the revelation for a few seconds.
“Gilon is here for your wedding? But how, why, who – invited him?” She asked; Judith blushed.
“I did. That’s why it was urgent for me to tell you, cause I didn’t want you to be caught off guard.”
“But I was, cause I’m just finding out!”
“Yeah, I was going to tell you yesterday, but you weren’t able to come, and I didn’t want to tell you over the phone.”
“Gil was supposed to arrive until the very day of the wedding, but for some reason he anticipated his trip. He didn’t give us any notice, he just showed up at the time portal last night and that’s it.”
“But – you knew he was coming?”
“Yes, we did, but he didn’t expect him this early, we were taken by surprise. And before you get mad at Dustin, he wanted you to know as soon as possible, hence his hurry for you and me to meet today.”
“If only you guys had told me sooner!” Juliette growled.
“I swear we didn’t know he’ll arrive so suddenly.”
“And may I ask why you invited him in the first place?”
“Gil is one of my best friends, I had no choice.”
“But he’s also my ex-boyfriend… my EX, get it?”
“Sorry, I know this must be awkward for you, but it’s better you get ready.”
“Get ready? For what?”
“Well, first, to see him again. Gilon has changed since you last saw him, Jul. He’s no longer the awkward, goofy teenager he used to be. He’s a full-fledged Interstellar Police commander now.”
“Interstellar Police? I thought he wanted to join the military.”
“He still wants that, but he thought joining the police would give him some experience.”
“Actually, he looks gorgeous in a uniform.”
“Judy…”
“What, I take it you’re not interested in him anymore, are you?”
“Of course I’m not, I just thought you were only interested in my brother.”.
“I am, but there’s nothing wrong with appreciating Gilon handsomeness”.
“Jud!”
“All right, all right,” Judith backed off.
“Since we’re talking about Dustin, she continued. “You should know he’s already warned Robin that Gil will be at the wedding.”
“And how did Rob take it?”
“Not very well, to my knowledge.”
“But in the end, Gilon attendance was an incentive for Rob to try harder and he promised Dustin that he’d sort things out with his wife before the wedding. That’s a good thing, isn’t it?”
“I don’t know what’s good about my two ex-boyfriends running into each other at my brother’s wedding.”
“Well, Gilon’s visit made Robin feel the ‘competition’ and fight for you. Now you’ll have to be very wise in making a decision.”
“What do you mean, what kind of decision?” Juliette asked, starting to get irritated.
“Well, I understand Gilon came here hoping to get you back.”
“What?”
“You see, Gil is a nice guy, he’s handsome, has an excellent job, and it’s no secret to anyone that he’s still in love with you. You should seriously consider that.”
“Consider? Judith…”
“Seriously, Jul, being realistic, Gil might be a good choice for you, he’s family-oriented, he’d make an excellent father for Rowan in case Robin can’t – you know, separate from his wife”.
“Will you please stop talking nonsense?”, Juliette snapped.
“Nonsense? Why, don’t you like Gilon anymore? As I recall you used to adore him.”
Juliette counted to ten before answering, Judith and she had just rescued their friendship, they weren’t going to fight now, much less about Gilon! She took a deep breath before answering:
“Ok, it’s true, I liked Gillon a lot, he was my first – love, and there we had great chemistry, but it’s Robin I love now, get it?”
“I totally get it, buddy, I’m just saying Gilon is a good guy, and he still has feelings for you, so if all goes wrong with Rob, you should give him a chance, is all.”
“I don’t know, I never considered that possibility. And it’s gonna be really awkward to have both Robin and Gilon at the wedding.”
Judith burst out laughing again.
“Don’t worry, they won’t make a scene, getting into a fistfight or something, they’re both super civilized future guys, remember?”
Juliette sighed.
“Yes, I know how ‘civilized’ they are in the future.” she replied. “Anyway, forgive my abruptness, I’ll be fine, it’ll just take me a while to digest this news.”
“Well, don’t take too long. Gilon is staying at the Shens headquarters, you might run into him one of these days.”
“At the headquarters? Why, aren’t there any hotels in Aurora Skies?”
“Chill, girl. He’ll only be there until my family arrives, then he’ll be staying with them in a rental house.”
“Though I must say he looks very comfy in the quarters. Dustin put him up in your old bedroom, he was delighted, sure everything there reminds him of you.”
“Judith, stop it, okay?
“Alright, I’m sorry, I won’t mention anything about it again.”
“Good, but before we drop the subject, I have one more question.”
“Sure, go ahead and ask.”
“Does Gilon’s sudden visit has anything to do with Robin’s situation? Is he here to arrest Rob or something?”
“Uh? – Oh, because he’s a cop? No, no, Robin’s situation is a municipal police matter. The Interstellar Police only deals with alien matters and the like. Unless…”
“Unless -?”
“Forget it. Gilon’s not here to arrest anyone, he’s here only on a social visit.”
“O-kay,” Juliette said only half relieved. “Well thank you for the heads up, though it wasn’t nice to hear, I appreciate your concern”.
“Sorry I reacted the way I did, believe me, it was very nice to see you and to know that we’re friends again.”
“It was nice to see you too and to meet little Rowan. I wish with all my heart that everything works out for you and Robin.”
“Thanks, Jude. Now if you’ll excuse me, I must leave Row with Dad and run to the hospital; Mom and work are waiting for me.”
“You go ahead, I’m not stopping you anymore. Good luck with everything and take good care of yourself, girl”.
“You too.” Juliette said, giving Judith a hug, then each went their way.
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