Generation 1, Chapter 47

At the dance Doloris asked Elias to go on a date with her and she could hardly believe it when he said yes. She was so thankful that she had taken her Dad's advice and here she was holding hands with the most wonderful guy she knew other than her Dad.

"So what would you like to do first?" Elias asked

"Hmmm what?"

"I knew you weren't listening. Am I that boring?"

"Oh it's not you. I'm sorry. My mind was light years away," Doloris said regretting that she had hurt his feelings.

"So what was so interesting inside that head of yours that would cause you to so totally ignore me?"

Blushing Doloris was tempted to say nothing but knew she owed him an explanation. "I was, you're going to think I'm silly but I was thinking how much I feel like a princess and _"

"And I'm your Prince Charming," Elias finished for her. Doloris nodded looking down embarrassed. Elias pulled her close and kissed her. "No I don't think you're silly. I like being your Prince Charming."

"So you don't mind that I asked you out?

"Of course not, don't be silly. I'm glad you did."

"You should thank my Dad, he suggested it."

"Then you won't mind that I asked your Dad where I should take you on our first date."

"You did what?"

"I asked him where and he suggested this place. I thought it'd be romantic as it was where your Dad took your Step Mom on their first date."

"I'm glad you're such a romantic at heart," Doloris said leaning in to kiss him again.

They decided to go upstairs to get away from the crappy karaoke  singers. They sat down to play dominos for a while and of course Doloris won.

"I give up," Elias said "There's no way I'll ever win. You cheat."

"I don't either. I'm just good."

"No you cheat."

"How can I cheat?" Doloris asked "OH I know I use my ex-ray vision to see what dominos you have."

"It's much worse than that. You distract me with your feminine wiles and I can't concentrate."

"See I don't cheat," Doloris said slapping his arm "I can't be blamed for your lack of attention."

"Let's play pool," Elias suggested giving up the argument.

Elias was glad he suggested pool. It gave him an opportunity to watch and fully appreciate Doloris. The way she would bend over the pool table to make her shots. He felt he was even more distracted now than he was before but it was all worth it. 

"Elias! You hoo it's your turn"

Turning red, Elias took his shot, groaning when his shot went wide. Doloris laughed at his expense saying "If I win no complaining and saying I cheated."

"I know, I know you're not to blame for my lack of attention."

"That's right," Doloris said smugly as she made the winning shot.

"I can't believe I lost two games to a girl," Elias said hanging his head.

Taking his hand, Doloris pulled him toward the photo booth. "Come on I want a picture to remember our first date."

"Hey don't you care that I'm a defeated man."

Looking around Doloris smiled saying "I don't see a defeated man anywhere around here. I see someone who gave all his attention to his girlfriend. What else could he do but let her win?" As the photo booth started taking pictures, Doloris leaned over and whispered in his ear "I like you."

Elias smiled in relief, he enjoyed that he didn't have to be perfect around her. Winning would have been nice but losing to Doloris wasn't that bad.

As the night drew to a close, Elias gave her another kiss then drove her home.

Peter stayed up waiting for Doloris to come. He was anxious to know how her date went. When she came home the answer was written all over her face, she was glowing. Doloris turned in the doorway and waved to Elias as he drove off, then she ran to her Dad, hugging him tightly.

"Thank you," she said into his shoulder.

"For what?"

"For making this a night I'll always remember."

"Hey that's what I'm here for."

"Thanks," Doloris said giving him a kiss on the cheek. "I love you Daddy."

"I love you too sweetheart," Peter said giving her another hug before releasing her. He stood there watching his daughter walk to her room. He smiled, glad that her date went so well. If only all his worries would have such happy endings.
 
 

Generation 1, Chapter 46

It was a warm fall day when Peter received a call from the police telling him they recovered Adam's stolen car. Peter was excited to tell Adam the news and he went in search of him, finding him playing horseshoes with Doloris. Peter smiled fondly at his children appreciating the gift he had been given that he could watch his children grow up. He knew that everything he had suffered was worth it during these moments.

"Hey Dad, want to join us?" Adam offered seeing him standing their watching.

"Yeah come on, it'll be fun," Doloris encouraged.

"Not right now, maybe later," Peter said "Adam when your done I want to talk to you."

Pausing a moment before throwing the horseshoe Adam asked "Is it important?"

"No just a surprise. Finish your game." Peter went off to practice is golf swing for tomorrows game. As he practiced, he couldn't help but hear the conversation between Doloris and Adam.

"Corina tells me you finally got a date for the dance."

"Uh huh" Doloris said smiling at the thought of seeing Elias again.

"Well, who is he?"

"Elias Parrott."

"Ethan's little brother?" Adam asked

"Yeah, what of it?"

"Nothing. I just don't know him."

"He's a lot nicer than his brother."

"From what I've heard, smarter too."

"What's that supposed to mean?"

"That Ethan let a great girl slip through his fingers and Elias didn't"

Smiling up to her big brother Doloris asked "Do you really think so?"

"Yeah. You're pretty nice once you let people get close to you."

Laughing Doloris said "I guess I'm a little tough on the outside_"

"But your soft and gushy on the inside," Adam finished for her.

"That's me. So you have any advise for your little sister."

"Nope. Just be yourself. But he'd better not try anything otherwise I might have to defend your honor."

"I don't think you have anything to worry about. Elias is a perfect gentleman. But your karate skills may come in handy defending Corina's honor."

Once the game wrapped up, Adam went over to where his Dad was practicing his swing. "So what's my surprise?"

Smiling Peter put his golf clubs away and said "The police called to say they found your car and they will have it delivered once they finish their investigation."

"That's great! I didn't think I'd ever see it again."

"Me either. But I'm glad they found it."

"Dad?" Adam began

"Yes son, what is it?"

"What are you going to do about Vallari and Elliot?"

Before responding Peter looked away sighing. "I don't know. I wish there was something but the police won't do anything on a hunch. I've talked to Elliot and told him he wasn't to go over to Vallari's house. But I don't know if that's going to be enough."

"I know," Adam said looking at his Dad "I have a bad feeling about this."

"So do I son. All we can do at this point is stay on guard. Keep a close watch on Elliot and keep an eye out for Vallari."

"And keep our fingers crossed that nothing bad happens"

"It's not much but it's all we've got," Peter said giving Adam a hug. Leaving Adam, Peter went inside where he was confronted with the troubling sight of Corina making out with Chase Bedlington. He knew his girls were growing up but he was finding it hard to except.  They were still his 'little' girls.

After watching her Dad make a beeline to his room, Cornia pulled away from Chase.

"Hey, what's the matter baby?"

"Cool it Chase. My Dad just came in."

Looking around the room Chase shrugged saying "Where? I don't see him." He turned back to Corina pulling her close to renew the kiss when Corina's hand came between them.

"I said cool it."

"Alright, alright," Chase grumbled "Now what."

"Hmmm let's dance," Corina suggested getting up to turn on the stereo.

Chase followed her asking "tell me why you won't go to the dance with me?"

"Because I'm going with Dakota."

"Dump him baby doll and come with me."

"I already told you no, so quit asking."

They danced in silence for a while when Chase said "You know you'd have a better time with me."

"What makes you think that?"

"Several things. I'm a much better kisser. I'm better looking. A better dancer. Face it I'm the better guy." Chase wrapped his arms around Corina forcing her closer to him, intent on proving he was the better choice. Ignoring Corina's resistance he was surprised when she stomped on his foot.

Breaking free from his grasp, Corina marched to the door and told Chase to leave. Chase was stunned, he could hardly believe she was telling him to get out. He sauntered to the door and sneered at her as he said "This isn't over baby doll."

Shutting the door behind him, Corina found she was shaking. She wondered what he meant by this not being over. Did that mean he wasn't giving up the idea of taking her to the dance? Maybe leading two guys on wasn't the best idea she ever had. She sighed as she went into the kitchen to dish herself up a plate of  spaghetti.

Peter noticed it had gotten quiet in the living room and decided now would be a good time to find something to eat. "Did your friend leave already?"

"Yeah he left."

"Is something wrong?"

"I don't know," Corina said "Probably not, he just said something that bothers me. I'm sure it's nothing."

"Corina, honey he didn't try anything did he?" Peter asked in concern wondering if he should have stayed to chaperone.

"No Dad. I'm perfectly capable of taking care of myself. It was just a misunderstanding. He doesn't understand why I won't go to the dance with him."

"Well, why won't you?"

Rolling her eyes Corina continued to eat, choosing to ignore his question.

"There must be a reason." Peter insisted not willing to be put off.

"Because I asked Dakota Fox to go to the dance."

"You what? Your telling me your dating two boys at once!"

"Yeah it's no big deal."

"It is a big deal, honey. Don't you understand that you're playing with fire. Someone is going to get hurt."

"Who cares? As long as it isn't me." Corina said getting up to clear the table.

"You should care, honey what's up with this attitude?"

"Nothing. I just don't want to be the good girl anymore." She said as she stormed out of the room, leaving the dishes behind.

Peter shook his head in astonishment. He never expected this kind of behavior from Corina. She had always been the good, contented little girl. He was concerned that she was changing and he was at a loss as to what he could do to stop it.

 "Mom?"

Jean stopped raking saying "Do you need something honey?"

"Well I was wondering if you could help me decide what I should wear to the dance."

"What kind of dance is it, formal or casual?"

"Formal," Doloris said "I really want something special."

"You're going with that cute Parrott boy, Ethan, right?"

 

"No mom, Elias. I'm going with Elias Parrott." Doloris said trying to keep the irritation she felt out of her voice. But from the look her mom gave her she was pretty sure she wasn't successful.

"I'm sorry. I thought you had a crush on Ethan. So I assumed it was..." Jean stopped seeing she was making things worse, she decided to drop it saying "How about we go shopping tomorrow. We can find the right ensemble for the dance."

"That would be awesome Mom, thanks!"

Doloris stood there a moment watching Jean resume raking, debating whether she should ask her another question. Looking up, Jean asked "Honey was there something else?"

"No that's ok, you're busy." Doloris said deciding the person she wanted to talk to was her Dad. He'd be the best one ask anyway. Going inside Doloris noticed that her Dad seemed a bit sad and wondered what was wrong.

"Everything ok Dad?"

"Sure honey" Peter said "I'm just not sure how much I like the idea of my little girls dating."

"Awe Dad, we're not little anymore."

"No your not. You're beautiful young ladies. I've got to accept that you're not my little girls anymore."

"Daddy I'll always be your little girl."

"Thank you sweetie, I needed that. So what can I do for you?"

"Well I need some advice," Doloris said "You know I'm going to the dance with Elias, right?"

"Yes, he seems to be a very nice young man."

"Oh he is but I'd like to go on an actual date. How do I know if he wants to go on a date with me?"

"Honey just be yourself and let things happen naturally. It's nothing that can be forced or rushed. Does he like you?"

"I think so. He asked me to the dance."

"How did that make you feel?"

"Like I was special.

"Honey I think this boy likes you and I agree with Adam, he was  smart enough to know he had a great girl."

"Daddy really, eavesdropping on our conversation."

"Sure, how else am I supposed to keep up with all of you. Besides you should be happy that I didn't get upset that you like this boy."

Laughing Doloris agreed "Daddy I love you, but is there anything I need to do to show Elias that I want him to ask me out?"

 

"Doloris honey, you don't have to wait for him. You can ask him out."

"That wouldn't be to forward?" Doloris asked "I don't want to come across as too pushy or stalkerish."

"I think your putting too much pressure on yourself. One of two things will happen. He'll say yes then you will both know you like each other or he'll say no. Either way you'll know."

"But if he says no I'll just die"

"Don't be so melodramatic. You'll be sad but you won't die. But if it'll make you feel better, I'll let Adam go to your defense."

"Oh Daddy you're the best,"Doloris said hugging him tightly before going to her room.

Peter sighed, wishing his girls had stayed little. He didn't like that they were growing up so fast. He was glad that Doloris still turned to him for advice. He was concerned over the changes Corina was making and he hoped it was just a phase and she would soon be back to normal. He missed his sweet, good natured little girl. He hoped she didn't get hurt along the way to finding herself but he'll be there to help her pick up the pieces if she did.  

Generation 1, Chapter 45

Elliot was moping around the house on Saturday, wondering what he could, he was so bored. Everyone was busy doing stuff they said he was too little to do. He was tired of being the youngest and too little to hang out with the older kids. Adam tried to include him but he'd been depressed since Windy left and Elliot didn't want to bother him.

He thought about setting up his lemonade stand but he didn't want the lonely old lady to come over. He felt bad that Adam had been really mean and rude to her the other night. He didn't understand why no one liked her, he tried to ask Adam but he just told him to stay away from her. That only made him more curious. Why should he stay away from her? Who was she? What did she do that caused everyone to not like her? Maybe he could be her friend and prove to everyone that she could be nice.

Elliot smiled at the thought. He liked the idea that he could accomplish something that no one else could do. He got up from the couch deciding he would bake some muffins and bring them over to the sad old lady across the street.

Meanwhile the twins had a bet going between them to see who could get a boyfriend first. This was especially important since there was a school dance coming up and neither one wanted to go without a date. Brian and Adam suggested they go with them since neither one of them had dates. But how embarrassing would that be to go to their first high school dance with their brothers!

Dakota Fox happened to come over to hang out with Adam but was enticed into a conversation with Corina. He had thought she was a cute kid and was unprepared for the pretty young woman she had become. He had always thought of her as being quiet and shy but there was nothing shy about her now.

"So Dakota do you have a date for the dance yet?"

"Why? You volunteering?" Dakota asked.

"Mmmmmaybe," Corina said as she ran her fingers up his arm. She smiled up at him. Corina thought to herself, I've got you now, hook, line and sinker all I've got to do now is reel you in. She was pretty pleased with herself, she was going to win the bet. It didn't matter that Dakota wasn't exactly what she'd call handsome but that would only make her look better.

Dakota was completely captivated by her. He was thinking he was pretty lucky that this beautiful girl wanted to go to a dance with him. Trying to play it cool he said "What are you going to do to convince me that I ought to take you to the dance instead of someone else?"

In response Corina giggled as she moved in close and kissed him quickly on the lips. As she took a step back Dakota grabbed her hands and pulled her close to him and kissed her again. As he let her go he whispered in her ear "Yes I'll take you to the dance."

Doloris was disappointed that she ha lost but didn't give up the search. She had an opportunity when Ethan Parrott came over to see Brian. Doloris thought he'd be perfect, not bad looking and a senior. If she could get him to take her to the dance then losing wouldn't be that bad.

"Are you going to the dance?" Doloris asked.

"Not sure yet"

Taking that as a hint to ask him Doloris said "Would you like to go to the dance with me?"

Ethan scowled at her and said "No."

"But you said ... I thought," stumbling over her words Doloris was becoming upset and blurted out "Why not?"

"Look kid, I have a certain reputation to maintain. I can't be seen with a kid, even if she is cute."

"I'm not a kid," Doloris shouted at him. How dare he say she was a kid! She turned and stormed into the house, slamming the door in Ethan's face.

Ethan stood there a moment debating whether he should knock again to see if Brian was home or not. He decided to leave and send his brother back with the book he wanted to return.

When Elias came over Peter invited him inside while he went to get Brian. While Elias waited he started to move to the music that was playing on the radio. Doloris came out of her room, curious as to who had come over. Well he's kind of cute, Doloris thought as she watched him sway to the music.

"Not bad, could use a little practice though," Doloris said as she entered the room.

Embarrassed Elias quit dancing, looking around to see who spoke to him, he felt his face reddening as he said "uh hi."

"Don't stop on my account," Doloris said waving her hand towards the stereo.

"Naw that's ok. I should be going," Elias said as he backed towards the door.

"Don't go. I mean unless you have to," Doloris said as she changed the CD to something better to dance to. Turning around she said "I love this song. Dance with me?"

With a rueful smile Elias joined her.

"You're a pretty good dancer," Doloris told him.

"Thanks. I just kind of move to the beat," he said "Um Doloris do you have a date for the dance yet?"

"Why?" Doloris asked thinking this was some sort of set up after that embarrassing episode with Ethan.

"Well I, um thought that, maybe we could go together. That is if you don't already have a date."

Doloris smiled in relief thinking that being asked was so much better than having to do the asking.

Noticing her smile Elias asked "so is that a yes?"

"Yes, yes it is"

"Good. My brother's an idiot."

Choking on a giggle Doloris asked "Why?"

"I wanted to ask you for a while but I never got up enough courage to do it. When Ethan came home complaining about you asking him to the dance I thought he was an idiot for turning you down. Don't get me wrong I'm glad he said no but it gave me the boost I needed to ask you myself before someone else did or you asked someone else and they said yes."

"Maybe Ethan said no because he knew you wanted to ask me," Doloris suggested.

"I doubt it," Elias said "But whatever. His loss, my gain."

They were both happy with how things turned out and Doloris felt that she had won despite having lost the bet. It was so much better to be going with someone whom you liked and who liked you. Although she knew it was too soon and she was too young she wondered if this could be her prince charming.

While Doloris and Elias were dancing, Elliot came home from visiting the old lady across the street. He was pretty pleased with how the visit went. She had enjoyed the muffins he baked and he had been able to make her laugh. Although he wondered why she wouldn't tell him her name. It was strange that she wasn't upset with him for calling her ma'am all the time.

"Dad who is that old lady that lives across the street from us?"

 "What old lady?" Peter asked.

"You know. The one that always comes over but no one likes."

"Yeah I know. What about her?"

"What's her name?"

"Vallari," Peter said "Elliot why are you so interested in her?"

"She seems so sad and lonely. She doesn't seem like she's as mean as everyone says."

"Son, trust me, she's as mean as everyone said and more. If she's nice she wants something."

"But she's nice to me," Elliot protested "Besides what would she want from me? I'm just a kid. I don't understand."

Sighing Peter knew he had to explain to his young son who Vallari was. His heart ached at the thought of Vallari getting her hands on his son and turning Elliot against him. He knew in his heart Vallari had a new scheme in the works and it centered around this innocent little boy.

"Elliot I know you don't understand. I don't think anyone understands why Vallari is the way she is. At one time I thought Vallari was beautiful and I wanted to make her happy. So I married her and we started a family_"

"My brothers and sisters?"

"Yes Vallari is their mother. However over time I came to realize that Vallari had only married me for the money she thought I would some day inherit. When she found out I was disinherited by my parents and wouldn't inherit anything she became upset and started to do things to make everyone miserable."

"But I thought you and Grandpa liked each other?"

"We do now. This was before we apologized to each other. But once we did Vallari tried to make amends and started to be nice but it was only so she could get the money not because she liked us. I realized that I couldn't trust her and I disliked the way she treated our children."

"Did you give her the money she wanted so that she'd go away?"

"No I didn't have enough money for what she wanted and I still don't. Since then Vallari has tried everything in her power to cause me and your brothers and sisters to be unhappy."

"Is that why no one likes her?"

"Yes Elliot. I know you feel sorry for her but she brought this upon herself. She likes being mean and hurting people. So that's why I don't want you going over to her house again, alright?"

"You knew I went over there?"

"No but I had a pretty good idea you might have when you started asking questions about her."

"Oh, ok Dad. I won't go over there again I promise. But what if she comes over here?"

"If she does come over here, come and get me or your mother and we'll talk to her." Peter reached over and gave Elliot a reassuring hug. As he hugged his small son he wondered what Vallari was up to, trying to befriend Elliot. He didn't know why but he had alarm bells going off in his head and he hoped he would be able to keep his son safe.
 
 

 


 
 
 
  

Generation 1, Chapter 44

Jean sat in the lab contemplating the problem of Windy. She just couldn't understand why Windy wouldn't or couldn't adjust her attitude. Jean had hoped after being grounded Windy would have had time to think about her actions and how her actions only made things worse. As far as Jean could tell, Windys' attitude had only gone from bad to worse It seemed she went out of her way to argue about anything and everything. She treated everyone with contempt, including Adam.

Sighing deeply, Jean continued to review the past few weeks since Windy and Adam had been caught breaking curfew. Adam, she knew regretted his actions unfortunately Jean knew he would allow himself to be persuaded into doing it again. He was just too compliant for his own good and couldn't say no. She realized that was the same flaw Peter had, he also couldn't say no. Jean smiled to herself, she loved Peter's large heartedness but she hoped she could influence him enough to set boundaries and realize he didn't have to give until it hurt. That was the trait that Vallari took advantage of until Peter couldn't take it anymore. Jean feared that Adam was being led down the same path with Windy. The question Jean thought, was who was pulling the strings, Windy or Vallari?

Jean reluctantly pulled up the application for Starch Military School and entered Windy's information. Jean hovered over the submit button but she knew ultimately this was the best solution. It would give Windy a chance to break free from Vallari's influence, if that's what she wanted. It gave her time to develop interests of her own and gave Adam the opportunity to know what life would be like without Windy. The younger kids would be free from Windy's taunts and torments. Feeling confident with her decision, Jean pressed the submit button.

Smiling in relief, Jean felt better knowing a decision had been made. Now all she had to do was explain to everyone else. Jean knew that she would have Peter's support; although she knew he would feel guilty for having not made the decision himself. She would be the bad guy in this and she was fine with that. She knew that Adam would be upset and it may be better in the long run if he believed the decision was hers and not his Dads.

Windy's acceptance letter arrived the day of Elliot's birthday party. It was welcomed with mixed feelings, the younger kids were all excited but Adam was sad and a little upset. If Adam was honest with himself he would realize he was furious. He felt that Windy was being punished because he couldn't keep her out of trouble. It was his fault that she didn't understand how her actions effected others but it was his responsibility to teach her. She was alive because of him and he had failed her.

Peter saw the turmoil Adam was going through and tried to talk to him.   Adam refused to talk to anyone; especially his parents, whom he blamed for sending Windy away. How could they do this to him? Adam sulked the entire party, not even Windy could cheer him up, not even when she confessed that she wanted to go. Adam refused to believe her, feeling she was only telling him what she thought he wanted to hear.

Peter tried to focus on enjoying Elliot's birthday, knowing it wasn't fair to Elliot to be so wrapped up in Adam's sorrow. Peter knew Windys leaving would be difficult but he wasn't prepared for Adam to reject him. Peter knew he had to share in the backlash of Adam's hurt feelings when he refused to let Jean take the blame for sending Windy to Starch Military school. It was as much his decision as hers and he refused to let her stand alone. Peter hoped that Adam would forgive him and realize this was all for the good of the family. Until that day, Peter would smile and enjoy the moments in all his kids lives, despite the heartache he carried inside for the pain Adam was enduring.

 

Elliot was too young to realize much of what was going on around him. He was excited to be bigger and old enough to go to school like everyone else. He was no longer a baby, even though everyone told him he was still the baby of the family. That wouldn't change unless Mom and Dad had another baby. So Elliot wished for a baby brother. When he opened his eyes from making his wish, he noticed an old woman across the room. 'I wonder who she is' Elliot thought to himself and he wondered why no one was talking to her. He felt sorry for her because she looked so sad and lonely.

 



"Hi I'm Elliot" he introduced himself to the old lady. "Who are you?"

"Leave me alone" the old lady responded in an irritated tone intently staring across the room.

Elliot looked around curious as to who or what she was looking at. Seeing his parents were in the direction of her gaze he thought maybe his mother had invited her to his party. "Do you know my mom" he asked.

"Yes" came the terse reply.

"Would you like a piece of my birthday cake? Mom made it and it's real good" Elliot offered.

"Sure kid go get me a piece of cake" Vallari told Elliot and returned to staring at Peter and Jean. Vallari was furious that Windy was being sent to Military school. She knew whose idea it was to send her away, Peter's new wife. Peter would never give up on any of his kids and send them away, not even Windy, Vallari was sure of it. It was all that woman's fault. Ever since she came along, Vallari had less and less influence in the lives of Peter and the kids. With Windy's help she had some control over Adam and through Adam, she was still able to hurt Peter. She enjoyed manipulating people, using them to twist and hurt her targets, while she sat back and watched. She enjoyed the chaos she caused and knew someone else was getting blamed. But now she was losing her puppet and her puppet was happy to be going.

Vallari needed a new puppet, someone young and naive. Windy was perfect, she had been naive of the ways of the world and lapped up what Vallari taught her. But now Vallari's reputation preceded her everywhere she went. She didn't have any friends and most of the kids in the neighborhood were scared of her.

"Uh, here's your cake" Elliot said at her side.

"Thank you" Vallari said smiling sweetly at Elliot, thinking to herself that she may have just found her next puppet.

After school the following day, Adam was moping in his room. Feeling depressed, knowing that Windy had left sometime that morning while he was at school. He had wanted to stay and see her off but his parents made him go to school instead. How he hated them for doing that him. He felt tears of frustration stinging his eyes and he balled his hands into fists as a wave of rage passed through him. When he opened his eyes he spied an envelope on his dresser with his name on it. Picking it up, he tore it open to find a letter from Windy.

Dearest Adam,
Please forgive me for asking your parents to make sure you weren't here when I left this morning. I know it was difficult for you but it would have been far worse for me if you had been here. Please believe me that this is what I wanted. It was the only way I knew how to get away from Vallari. She was asking me to do things that would have hurt someone. I thought she was my friend but all she wanted was someone to spy for her and inform her of what your father was doing and how he was feeling.

There were many times when I wondered if she were responsible for your fathers illness. I'm consumed with guilt, knowing that I may have been her instrument she used to deliver her poison. I never wanted to hurt you but I know I have. I'm so very tired of being pulled apart and used by Vallari. I didn't know how to stand up to Vallari and was so scared to admit that I could have caused your fathers illness that I was afraid to ask for help. I know your father tried to help me, he kept asking me why I did the things I did. He wanted so much to help me, to understand why and I pushed him away. Thinking that I wasn't worthy of his concern. All I could think was, I could have killed him and I hated myself for it and here he was offering to help me. So I thought I would do everything possible so that they would have no choice but to send me away. My only regret in following this course of action was involving you and making you choose between me and your parents.

I love that you thought so much of me that you would risk disappointing your parents but please don't blame them for sending me away. Maybe things could have been different if I had confided in Peter when I had the chance. But I was afraid of the consequences, of the things Vallari would have done. She truly frightens me. Promise me you will be careful and that you will protect you father from that evil woman. Maybe crazy is a better word but she's obsessed with Peter and causing him pain. No one is safe and everyone's a target if she can use them to inflict pain and suffering. Do not underestimate her now that she's old, she's still dangerous and she needs someone to replace me. I'm concerned she may have her sights on Elliot. Keep him safe.

Adam you are and have always been my best friend. Maybe one day I will be worthy of your friendship and love. Tell your dad I'm sorry. I'll keep in touch.

Your BFF,

Windy

Having read Windy's letter through a couple of times Adam went outside to get some air. Adam was deeply saddened that he had been oblivious to Windy's predicament. He was glad that his father had sensed she needed help and had tried to help. He felt better knowing that Windy was where she felt she could be safe and free from Vallari. Adam was troubled when he noticed Vallari walk across the road to talk to Elliot who was busy setting up his lemonade stand for tomorrow. Adam wondered what she wanted and recalled Windy's warning about Vallari using Elliot as her new spy.

Adam was determined not to let that happen. "Elliot it's time to go inside."

Elliot looked over his shoulder and nodded that he heard. However he didn't want to appear rude to the sad old lady who just came over to talk to him.

Noticing that Elliot still hadn't gone inside Adam decided to walk over and join them. "Elliot it's getting late and if you plan on getting up early to open up your lemonade stand you need to get some sleep."

"I know but I didn't want to be rude" Elliot explained.

"It's alright deary, listen to your brother." Vallari told Elliot.

It started to rain as Elliot left and as soon as he was inside, Adam confronted Vallari. "Leave my brother alone" he demanded.

"I haven't done anything to him."

"I know you. You never act nice unless you want something, so leave him alone. He's just a little kid."

"Or what? Are you man enough to stop me?" Vallari scoffed.

"I won't let you get your claws into him like you did with Windy. It's your fault she felt she couldn't stay here."

Vallari laughed at his audacity and said "Windy's a weak little girl who didn't appreciate me. If she would have listened to me she would've been in control and you would never have known what she was up to."

"You're not as smart as you think you are. You just hurt people and use them until they have nothing left. I won't let you do that to Elliot."

"What can you do to stop me?" Vallari laughed adding "Your as weak and pathetic as your father."

"My father was strong enough to kick you to the curb. That's what makes you so mad, isn't? That he was able to see you for what you are, an evil manipulative woman, who only cares about herself."

"How dare you say those things about your own mother! I gave you life and I can take it back."

"Are you threatening me? Would you really kill your own son?" Adam asked in disbelief. Up to this point he had somehow believed that Vallari wouldn't actually physically hurt him. Why he was surprised he wasn't sure, after all she had already almost killed her ex-husband but her own flesh and blood? Was she really that crazy? Maybe he should have heeded Windy's warning to not underestimate her and to take her as extremely dangerous.

 Vallari knew she had hit a nerve when Adam turned away. She hoped he was worried and would continually look over his shoulder, wondering how and when she would strike. She felt empowered when she was able to watch her victims squirm. However Vallari was starting to lose control of her emotions and saying things she wouldn't normally blurt out. She should never have been so blunt as to threaten him, now he knows she's gunning for him. Then she smirked, knowing that was actually a good thing. If Peter was focused on protecting Adam then she would be free to redirect her energies towards her ultimate goal, Elliot. Then her revenge would be complete.
 
 

Generation 1, Chapter 43

Peter restrained himself from getting involved with the discipline that Jean handed out to both Windy and Adam. Not that he didn't care or agree with how she handled things but Peter knew he wouldn't have been able to stick with it, his heart would have melted at the first plea in fear that he was being unreasonable. He had vivid memories of countless times he had felt his parents had been unjust, too strict and rigid. The rules he had to follow made him feel like he had been in prison and he had wanted to break free, rebel, anything to be able to breath. Instead he had become repressed and compliant, molding himself into what he thought they wanted, a perfect son. It all came crumbling down the night of the explosion that destroyed his fathers research.

Peter still remembered the anger his father had unleashed, making him wish he had perished in the explosion along with the irreplaceable research. Although Peter and his father had long since made up, Peter still carried the guilt around with him and he never wanted to inflict that kind of emotional trauma on his children. In his attempt to avoid doing so, he realized he had become too easy going and permissive. He also realized he may have been overcompensating for Vallari's lack of affection and harshness. Peter wondered if this could have contributed to the problems they were experiencing with Windy and through her, Adam. Should he have been more strict? Would he have gained Windy's respect? Now he was faced with the decision of sending her away to boarding school. Peter knew Jean was tired of dealing with Windy and her total disregard for everyone else. Jean had voiced her concern that Windy's attitude was rubbing off on the other kids. Still Peter was concerned how it would effect Adam, sending Windy away, someone he had known all his life. Would it be beneficial to separate them, to force them to become individuals instead of thinking of themselves as a unit?

Peter had all these thoughts running through his head as he worked along side Brian on his antique car. He felt guilty that he was preoccupied with concerns of Adam and Windy when he should be enjoying this time with Brian.

"Brian do you remember when you were little you had an imaginary friend?"

"Sure I remember Pat. At the time she was my best friend. But I have to admit I liked her mostly because it annoyed Vallari so much." Brian responded laughing at the memory of Vallari stomping her feet and demanding he quit playing with the air.

"Did you ever want to make her real?" Peter wondered.

"I thought about it; especially when Adam offered to give me the potion but I don't know, it lost some of it's appeal after Adam made Windy real." Brian shrugged adding "I guess I'm kind of scared that Pat would turn out the same as Windy. So I didn't take the chance. Why?"

"I don't know. I just wondered whatever became of her. You used to talk about her all the time." Peter responded evading the real reason, not willing to admit he was glad that Brian hadn't made Pat real or that Windy was such a handful that he wished Adam had used better sense before he made her real.

"You know Dad, I still wonder what Pat would be like if she were real. Do you think I could have the potion? Maybe one day I'll make her real." Brian looked up from the engine towards his Dad. Then added as he saw the look of dismay that Peter gave him. "Don't worry Dad, I don't plan on doing it any time soon. I may never do it but I'd like the option to be able to. Besides Windy is enough for any house. If I decide to do it, it will be when I'm older and on my own."

"Alright son, I'll give you the potion. Just promise me you'll think long and hard about this before you do it. I'd hate to see you regret your decision if she turns out to be someone you don't like." Peter said in concern secretly hoping that Brian would never take that step.

After considering his fathers agreement, Brian smiled and went to sit behind the wheel of his car. Peter followed and sat beside him. "Thanks Dad for understanding and allowing me to make my own decision. I really do appreciate it. I know that your worried that it'll turn out bad but Pat isn't Windy and I'm not Adam. It'll be different I'm sure of it. Not to change the subject or anything but when do you think this car will be ready for a test drive?"

Corina and Doloris were eagerly anticipating becoming teenagers. They knew there was a party planned; although they each acted as it they didn't know anything about it. They knew how much their Dad enjoyed planning their parties, they just hoped it wouldn't be lame. They have confidence in their Dad but not so much in Jean. Sometimes she was just too sweet. Doloris often said she must be from Planet Sweet Stuff because she seemed to ooze sweetness. Not to say that was a bad thing but it did cause them worry that there birthday party would be more suitable for a toddler instead of two soon to be teenagers.

'Young and in Charge' is how Corina liked to describe herself. She was ready to put aside her good girl reputation and have some fun. She had spent enough time in the background and it was time for her to take center stage. She had observed how Windy always got noticed and she wanted to be like that. She didn't want to be the 'good twin' anymore. She had no desire to be the little mouse that did as she was told.  

 

Their birthday was a success only marred by the presence of Vallari and Windy conversing together. Once again Windy succeeded getting Vallari admitted inside the house. Although this time Vallari was much subdued and kept to herself, maybe it was her recent birthday becoming an elder with no one there to see her through it. Maybe she was depressed that she was old and everyone knew it by looking at her and all her scheming couldn't prevent it.

Doloris didn't much care why Vallari was quiet, she just wished she'd disappear. But she was determined not to let it ruin her night. She had realized she didn't want to become like Vallari, having people walking on egg shells around you, waiting for you to explode. she wanted respect but felt that this could be accomplished without inflicting fear. Doloris knew it was going to be difficult, she had inherited her mean spiritedness from Vallari but that didn't mean she had to let it rule her life. She had found a role model she wanted to imitate. Although she often poked fun at how sweet Jean was, she knew she wanted some of that sweetness to rub off on her. She envied how Jean had the ability to put people at ease and could empathize with them. Doloris felt she no longer needed to maintain her tough exterior to keep people at a distance so they wouldn't be able to hurt her. Not that she wanted to be seen as weak either. She wanted to be a self-reliant, independent woman who could take care of herself and along the way find her soul mate.