Colette Bonnet observed Appaloosa Plains through the window of the taxi. It was as empty as Emery had described, but also as beautiful. The terrain had similarities to Champs Les Sims, with hills descending into lowlands along a river. However, Appaloosa was more stepped, with lush darker green grass near the river and more yellow grass on the middle and upper plateaus. The middle plateau had a tighter road network with streetlights, suggesting that a town once stood there. The only building left was a large Victorian house that was painted light blue with white trim. The taxi drove past it at a distance. A tall wood fence enclosed a small area near the road to the upper plateau. The Community Garden, Colette assumed.
The upper plateau was the smallest area of town. As the taxi climbed the second hill, Colette saw Emery's parents' home. She recognized it from photos Emery had sent her. It had a small building on the left and larger main house on the right, both one storey, surrounded in flower bushes, and topped with brown shingle roofs. The taxi passed it quickly. Colette got a glimpse of their pond, but didn't see the garden or swimming pool she knew were somewhere at the back. The taxi continued down the street. Colourful autumn leaves filled Colette's view through the window. There were so many trees along the road and on Emery's property that her house was almost completely hidden from the street. If it wasn't at the end of the street, it would be easy to miss entirely. The driver turned at the dead-end and pulled over near a mailbox and garbage bin.
"Here you are," the driver said simply.
Colette thanked them and took her bags out of the taxi.
She had packed in a hurry and hadn't brought very much. When Emery told her that her father had passed away, Colette immediately bought a plane ticket to fly to Sim Nation. She regretted not going sooner. Now, her first trip to the country was for a sad reason instead of a happy one, and it was a shame she couldn't meet Emery's father in person. Colette and her sister Béatrice lost their parents some years ago. The grief got easier over time, because it became part of their lives; it became easier to accept that some sadness would always be there. Certain things, often mundane or random, could bring the grief back to the forefront. But it also came forward in the big moments. Moments like receiving a call from your girlfriend that her father, too, had died.
Colette carried her bags towards Emery's treehouse-like home. The ground floor was smaller than the first floor above. Several pillars wrapped in flowering green vines supported a large deck that surrounded the upper level and sheltered the entrance. She set her bags down and knocked on the ornate front door. It only took a moment for Emery to open it. Emery's eyes welled immediately.
"Ma belle," Colette said sympathetically.
"I'm so glad you're here," Emery's voice wavered.
Colette hugged her tightly. "For as long as you need," she said gently.
"I missed you so much," Emery said, beginning to cry.
"I missed you, too," Colette replied into her hair. "I am sorry I was not 'ere sooner. I should 'ave visited sooner…."
Emery shook her head in disagreement, still over Colette's shoulder as they embraced. "We can't think like that," she managed to say. "You're here now, that's what's important."
"I got on the first flight I could," Colette sniffled.
"I know," Emery breathed through her tears.
Colette gently moved out of the hug and wiped tears from Emery's cheeks. She smiled at her, in hopes it might be contagious. She was happy to see her, despite the circumstances.
"'Ave you been able to eat?" Colette asked. "I can make you some'zing?"
"I'm okay," Emery shrugged. "Maybe we can just go cuddle? … Are you hungry?"
"I am fine, ma belle. Let me get my bags and we'll go upstairs."
Emery guided Colette up the stairs and to the bedroom to put her bags down, then excused herself to the bathroom. She looked at herself in the mirror and tried to steady her breathing. She tried to focus on being happy that Colette was finally here in Appaloosa Plains, and ignore the nagging thoughts of how her father never got to meet her girlfriend in person; how he'd never try her cooking and how they'd never discuss books together. How he wasn't going to be there if they ever got married. Emery tried to focus on her breathing.
"Are you alright in 'zere, ma belle?" Colette's voice called.
"Yeah," Emery replied, hoping the shakiness in her voice was hard to hear through the door. "Be out in a minute."
Emery turned on the sink and let cool water fall over her hands. She patted some on her face. It was a little refreshing but not as much as she'd hoped. Her face still felt warm and uncomfortable. She took a deep breath and returned to the bedroom.
Colette was sitting on her bed. Emery's first thoughts made her feel a bit guilty. She was still deep in her grief, but she couldn't help but be a bit excited to finally see her girlfriend on her bed. Colette was here, in Appaloosa Plains, in her bedroom, after all this time. She wanted to enjoy that; savour her girlfriend's company, hold her close, explore each other. But her excitement felt hollow, like an echo of the emotion, her grief weighing it down. If Colette had been there a few months ago—hell, if she'd been there two weeks ago—Emery would have been all over her by now. They'd fantasized and talked about it for years dating long distance. Emery thought she couldn't wait. Instead, she found she just wanted to be close, and hopefully find some comfort.
Colette lifted her legs onto the bed and slid over, making room and patting the blanket as an invitation. Emery approached shyly. Her body was tense as she joined her girlfriend on the bed.
"You wanted to cuddle," Colette reminded her quietly. "And I am 'ere to listen, if you want to talk."
Emery gave her a half-hearted smile. "I don't really know what I want to say," she said.
"I can 'old you until you do?" Colette suggested with a smile. Emery blushed and moved into Colette's open arms.
Colette put one arm behind Emery's back and the other across her to her opposite hip, tugging her even closer. It felt almost overwhelming, finally having her girlfriend in her arms. 'Rester correct,' Colette reminded herself to stay calm and keep things… polite. She assumed Emery wouldn't be in the mood for intimacy, but that didn't mean it was easy for Colette to ignore her desires. Years of longing for when they'd finally be together again inevitably created a lot of… tension. Given Emery's inexperience, Colette never pushed for anything Emery wasn't ready for. She was happy to let Emery set their pace and didn't mind their limited sexual activity. In fact, she was confident that their relationship was strong and healthy partly because it was built on so much more than sexual attraction. But she did find Emery extremely attractive. It had been a long time since she could touch her… A long time to think about touching her… And yet, despite how much her body wanted her, Colette found she wanted to wait a little longer. She knew how vulnerable Emery was right now. She didn't want to ruin what they had by acting impulsively. Emery needed her comfort, support and affection. The adult intimacy could wait.
Colette gently caressed Emery's arm as they cuddled in silence. After a while, Emery moved to hold Colette's hand. Their fingers interlocked, separated, explored each other's hands, and interlocked again for some time. The movements were soothing, and they enjoyed being close to each other. Finally, both of them began to relax, and let themselves stop thinking and worrying so much.
Emery and Colette woke up in each other's arms, still in their clothes from the day before. Emery was apologetic that they fell asleep before Colette could even get changed into more comfortable clothes. Colette brushed her off, "You needed 'ze rest."
"Come," Colette added after a few moments more in bed. "I will make us breakfast."
Emery rubbed her eyes and got up slowly; Colette was already leaving the bedroom. Emery heard the clicking of the stove being turned on. It was nice that Colette liked to cook. She hoped Colette liked the kitchen upgrades she'd done over the past few years. It still wasn't a fancy chef's kitchen or anything, but everything was new, more functional, and a bit prettier than it had been when the house was first built. She hoped her book royalties and profits from her paintings had been well spent.
Emery slowly made her way over to the dining table, offering Colette a half-hearted smile on her way past. She sat down. She realized the view of the trees through the window didn't feel as beautiful as usual… or maybe didn't feel as real? She zoned out for a while. She could hear and smell the pancakes sizzling in the pan, but she didn't really feel hungry. Still, she thought it best to let Colette feed her. She was, after all, glad that the renovated kitchen was being put to good use.
----------
Autumn ended swiftly. Most of the trees lost their leaves within days of Colette's arrival. Some days were better than others for Emery, and Colette did her best to take care of her while she grieved. She often found Emery idly looking out the window or absently staring at something. Emery didn't have much of an appetite and wasn't as talkative as she usually was. Still, they were able to have some nice moments together and enjoyed each other's company.
As the weather got colder, Colette began to worry she hadn't packed enough to stay much longer. However, she didn't want Emery to be alone. Emery's smiles were starting to look more genuine and she was always able to get out of bed, so in Colette's opinion, she was doing alright. It could have been a lot worse, given how close Emery was with her father. At the same time, Colette had to acknowledge that her being there was likely helping a lot.
"Lasagna?" Emery said cheerfully as she joined Colette at the dining table. "Spoiling me?"
Colette smiled at her as she sat down. "I 'ave a suggestion," Colette said.
"Buttering me up with the lasagna, then," Emery noted.
"Buttering?" Colette repeated with a furrowed brow. "Yes of course 'ze lasagna 'as butter."
Emery smiled at her and explained, "It's an expression. It means you are trying to make me feel good, so I'll be more likely to agree to something."
Colette gave a nod of understanding. "I was not doing it for 'zat," she clarified. "I wanted to make lasagna."
Emery giggled and started to eat her food. "It is really good."
"Good," Colette smiled. After taking a few bites herself, she returned to her suggestion, "I think we should 'ost Christmas 'ere."
Emery's eyes widened. She looked at Colette with surprise and confusion, "What?"
"Christmas, with your family," Colette enunciated, "We should do it here."
"You can stay through Christmas?" Emery asked.
"Well," Colette paused. "I need to go back to France soon, but I think I will retourne… if 'zat iz OK?"
"I love having you here," Emery said. "But your whole life is in France. I don't want you to feel stuck here looking after me. And it will be expensive for you to fly back and forth just for Christmas."
"I do not feel stuck," Colette reassured her. "I regret not coming for a short visit sooner. It iz not too expensive to see you," she added with gently raised eyebrows.
Emery smiled at her, but there was sadness in her eyes.
Colette continued, "I will talk with Béa, and maybe Gaston. And I will see 'ow long I can stay for Christmas." She ate some more lasagna.
"That's very sweet, Col, I appreciate it, but you really don't have to," Emery objected. "Isn't Christmas a really busy season for nectar selling?"
"It iz already busy for 'zem now, yes. But 'zey do not need me 'zere," Colette ate another bite of food before continuing. "For once, I would like to spend Christmas with my girlfriend. Besides, it will be a good way for me to meet your family, in an 'appy way."
"Are you sure?"
"Emery," Colette sighed. "Mon chou, s'il vous plait, laisse-moi faire, OK?"
Emery frowned and moved her food around on her plate. "It is a nice idea," she admitted.
"I 'ave many good ideas," Colette agreed.
This prompted a genuine smile from Emery.
Colette smiled back, "Je t'aime."
"I love you too."
----------
Frost clung to the large windows of the treehouse-like home. It was warm enough inside, though definitely colder in front of the windows and cooler at night. Colette found it cozy. She was surprised how comfortable she felt not only in Emery's home, but in Appaloosa Plains, despite knowing there was so little here… so few neighbours and things to do. She missed her community, the quaint town square, and the beautiful vineyards of Champs Les Sims, but she also knew she could be happy here with Emery. Besides, the Bridgeport Metropolitan Airport wasn't so far away when she wanted to visit home.
"J'ai parlé à Béa," Colette said softly as she idly swept her fingertips around Emery's shoulder and upper arm. Her cheek was against Emery's forehead as they cuddled on the bed. She loved holding Emery close like this, just quietly enjoying each other.
"You asked about coming back for Christmas?" Emery quietly clarified.
"Oui, elle pense que c'est une bonne idée," Colette smiled. "She said I should stay as long as I want, every'zing is good 'zere."
Emery looked up at her.
They were both quiet for a moment before Colette continued, "And maybe we 'ave ano'zer suggestion…"
Emery sat up a little to make more direct eye contact with her girlfriend. Colette gave her a playful, almost mischievous smile and gently touched Emery's long black hair.
"When I come back for Christmas, I want to stay 'ere with you for a year, maybe two," Colette said, looking into her eyes.
Emery's eyebrows drew down slightly, "Col…" she breathed.
Colette's smile was softer now. She moved her hand from Emery's hair to gently caress her cheek.
"I want to be with you," Colette continued. "I want to know you, and your family, and what it is like to live 'ere in Appaloosa Plains."
Emery's eyes welled and her lip quivered.
"Before you say I 'don't 'ave to' or something like 'zat," Colette smirked. "I want to. If you think it iz too long, I know you like your space, 'zat is OK. I can just stay 'ow long you want."
Emery took a moment to think before responding, "You will miss France… even I miss France," she paused and offered a half-hearted smile. "What if you prefer living in France? Or what if I would?"
Colette returned to running her fingers through Emery's hair. "What if after I stay 'ere, we go to France ensemble? One or two years 'ere, and 'zen one or two 'zere? We can decide where we want to live."
Emery adjusted to sit more upright. "You really want to do that?" she asked hopefully.
Colette smiled wider and reassured her, "I want to be with you."
"For at least four years, apparently," Emery blushed and smirked.
"Maybe longer," Colette teased back. She sat up a bit. "So? What do you think?"
"I'd love to do that," Emery answered softly. "I love having you here… I like that you'd have the opportunity to get to know my family like I got to know Beatrice, visiting, eating together, relaxing… and I've missed being with you in France, experiencing your world." She looked up at Colette, wide eyes welling with tears.
"Ma belle," Colette cooed. She gently touched Emery's cheek, then outstretched her arm to invite Emery to cuddle up close.
Emery tucked a shoulder under Colette's arm and moved closer. Colette kissed her and rested her face against Emery's hair.
"Je t'aime de tout mon cœur," Colette whispered, squeezing her shoulders gently.
Emery closed her eyes and enjoyed the moment. She felt so lucky to have Colette in her life. She reached out to hold her hand, interlocking their fingers. Colette's body felt warm against her. Emery's knee touched Colette's thigh. Emery suddenly became more aware of Colette's breath, and then her own.
"Is it weird that I think that conversation made me horny?" Emery giggled, a bit embarrassed to admit it.
Colette shook her head 'no' and kissed Emery lightly, then whispered, "Show me what you want to do."
----------
The morning before Colette had to fly to Champs Les Sims, she woke up to find Emery already out of bed. She got dressed and came out to find freshly made waffles on the kitchen counter. Emery was across the room, sitting at her computer.
"You made 'zese for me?" Colette smiled.
"Good morning, love," Emery chimed, getting up and going over to her. "I wanted to let you sleep and still get a good breakfast before your flight."
"Merci, ma belle," Colette said with a kiss.
Her flight wasn't until the evening, but she decided not to tease Emery about that. The gesture was appreciated regardless. She picked up the plate and sat at the table while Emery returned to her computer.
"Are you working on your next book?" Colette asked with enthusiasm.
"Oh, uh," Emery wavered. "No, uh… something else."
"Hm?" Colette waited for Emery to elaborate.
"Well, I'm um… I was planning, well, researching is maybe a better word… for our trip to France."
Colette smiled. "Our trip 'zat iz two years away?"
"But it's also two years long," Emery quickly explained. "... I know it's silly, but…."
Colette got up and walked over to Emery's desk. "T'es trop mignonne, but you do not need to worry. We will stay at my house avec Béa, 'zere is nothing to book."
Colette put a hand on the chair and Emery turned to look up at her.
"I know," Emery smiled shyly. "But I'm excited… I love that we're going to spend quality time learning each other's worlds."
"Mhm," Colette hummed, leaning in to kiss her.
"And maybe I'm also hoping focusing on the trip we'll do together will help me miss you less," Emery admitted.
Colette smiled again, still leaning over her girlfriend. "Ah, so you are being cute and romantic, hm?"
Emery giggled and kissed Colette again.
"Can you take a break from your… research?" Colette whispered.
Emery kissed her as she stood up, and continued all the way to the bedroom.
----------
"I'm sorry I 'ave to go," Colette said quietly, "I will be back soon."
She stood facing Emery between her front door and the spiral staircase up to the main level. Emery was having trouble making eye contact with her. She felt horrible that she had to leave, even if it was only for a short time.
"I know," Emery said. "I'll be okay. I'll miss you, though."
"Tu vas me manquer aussi," Colette said, taking Emery's hands in hers.
"It'll only be a few days."
"And 'zen I will be here for so long you will miss 'aving your space," Colette smiled.
How Emery looked up at her made her heart sink. She considered cancelling the trip and just trying to make it through the next two years in Appaloosa Plains with the few winter outfits she brought. She could probably just go to Bridgeport for a day and buy what she needed? No, the trip was booked, and she didn't want Emery to feel smothered. They were sad now, but they both enjoyed their independent lives before they met and when they were dating long distance. She would return in a few days and it would be a new phase of their relationship.
"Je t'aime de tout mon cœur," Colette said softly. She brought Emery closer and moved her hands to Emery's hips.
Emery tried to keep her composure. Colette's touch helped calm her. She traced Colette's sleeves with her palms until her hands were on her shoulders. 'Stay with me,' part of her wanted to say. But she also knew Colette likely had to take care of things in Champs Les Sims. She was grateful Colette's job was flexible enough for her to visit in the first place. Now she was taking a 2-year break instead of just a couple weeks of vacation. Surely she had some responsibilities to sort out before such a long sabbatical. And what about her shared house with Beatrice? Emery wished she'd had the capacity to think of and ask about these things sooner. She didn't want to ask now and make Colette late for the airport. Besides, it was hard to talk with the lump in her throat. 'Don't go,' her thoughts begged. Her lip trembled. She couldn't ask her to stay.
Colette embraced her tightly. "Je t'aime de tout mon cœur," Colette repeated in a whisper that shook with the threat of tears.
"I love you so much," Emery managed to say.
"You can call me anytime."
Emery nodded into Colette's shoulder. She didn't want to let go. If they stopped hugging, Colette would leave to catch her taxi to the airport. But after a moment, they heard a vehicle honk twice outside. Colette slowly loosened her hold on Emery.
"Anytime," Colette repeated.
Emery nodded. "I'll be okay, my love. Travel safely, okay?"
Colette kissed her, rubbed her arm affectionately, and then stepped back to pick up her bag from the floor. She turned and opened the door to the cold winter evening outside. Emery swallowed back her tears. She'd been crying too much these last few months. She watched Colette walk into the snow.
Colette looked back over her shoulder to see Emery watching in the still-open doorway as she walked towards the waiting taxi. She offered her a small smile, and she smiled back. Why was this so hard? She reached the taxi and got into the backseat. Colette greeted the driver and confirmed they were going to Bridgeport Metropolitan Airport. They pulled away from the curb. Through the window, she saw Emery close her front door.
----------
After Colette left for her trip, Emery expected to feel sad, but also a bit relieved. She'd always enjoyed her personal space. She thrived in her peaceful life of solitude when she'd moved out of her busy family home. She enjoyed having Colette around, but she still expected to have that 'sigh of relief' feeling she had after moving out of her parents' place. Instead of relief, however, she felt that the house was empty. Way too empty. That was new. Unsure of how to respond, she decided to take a hot bath. 'Maybe I just need to relax,' she thought to herself.
The shower-tub combination was a recent upgrade. Her old shower fixture, sink and toilet were moved to a new small bathroom on the ground floor, ideal for using when she was out gardening all day. Nicer fixtures replaced their positions on the main upper floor. The new bathtub was a good size, and the glass surround was actually decently comfortable to lean back on. She settled in and tried to relax, focusing on the warm water. She began to cry.
She allowed herself to cry. 'An opportunity to literally sit with my grief, I guess,' she thought to herself. 'Though I don't think they usually mean in the bath….' She cried until the water started to get too cold to be comfortable, then decided to give up on the bath idea. Hopefully her body just needed a good cry, and after a good sleep, she'd feel better tomorrow.
The next day she decided to try and write something. She didn't have a novel in the works at the moment— maybe it was time to start one. She forced herself to get dressed and sat down at her computer. She opened her word processor. The blank page stared back at her. 'I don't have to start writing my next novel,' she told herself after sitting there for a while. 'Maybe I can just brainstorm some ideas for it. Or try a short story… or even just practice writing.'
The blank page kept staring at her. She narrowed her eyes at the blinking text cursor. 'Or… I could journal? Journaling is good for grieving, right?' She lightly tapped her fingers over the keys, hoping they'd start typing something. That didn't work either. 'Maybe I could try writing in Simçais to practice?' But she wasn't sure what to write in Simçais, either. 'What am I supposed to write? "I wish my dad didn't die"? When he passed peacefully in his sleep, of old age, next to his loving, dedicated partner?' She felt horribly selfish just thinking that. She certainly didn't want to write that down anywhere.
The blank page persisted.
Emery wiped a tear from her cheek. She closed the empty document and opened the messaging app she used to chat with Amelia, her English friend from art school. Talking to a friend seemed like a better idea than being alone with her thoughts and a blank screen.
She was relieved that Colette's trip was short. The days alone were long, but at least their end was in sight. Emery even did her best to clean the house before Colette's return so she could relax when she arrived. Cleaning was also a welcome distraction. She was still a bit surprised that the house felt empty without Colette there. Emery had always loved her time alone before now.
----------
Emery watched for the arrival of Colette's taxi and excitedly ran towards the road as it pulled up. Her puffy winter coat made swishy noises as she did. She felt silly and a bit embarrassed, but she was so excited to see Colette that she didn't mind.
Colette got out of the vehicle and started retrieving her suitcases and bags from the trunk when Emery nearly tackled her with a hug. Colette swore in surprise, then laughed and sunk into the hug. Emery apologized through giggles.
"You didn't see me running?" Emery asked with a laugh. "Probably for the best. I looked ridiculous."
"Too focused on getting my bags," Colette explained. "I'm sure you looked cute."
"I can help you with those," Emery beamed, releasing Colette from the hug and turning towards the taxi.
They unloaded Colette's luggage onto the sidewalk and waved off the driver. They hugged again and kissed as the taxi disappeared down the street.
"I missed you," Colette breathed.
"Tu m'as manqué," Emery replied. She loved that in Simçais, the way to say 'I missed you' was more accurately translated as 'You were missing from me.' It felt especially accurate at this moment.
"Your accent Simçais is so cute," Colette smiled at her.
"I was hoping it was sexy," Emery replied, half-joking.
Colette pulled her even closer, compressing Emery's puffy jacket between their bodies. In a low voice, she asked in Simçais if Emery found her accent sexy. Emery blushed, immediately flustered. Colette tilted her head and gave Emery a seductive look. All Emery could do was breathe.
Colette continued speaking Simçais in a hushed voice, teasing Emery with questions. "Do you want me to kiss you now? Do you want me to take you inside? What do you want me to do to you?" She moved her lips from where Emery could see them, to near her own, to near her ear. Emery's breathing became more uneven; she managed a few small nods and "mhm" sounds of affirmation, but she couldn't speak. Finally, Colette kissed her passionately. Emery was starving for it. "Go inside, then," Colette instructed with a smirk and narrowed eyes. "Let's see what I can do for you."
----------
Colette spent the next few days unpacking her things and practicing recipes she wanted to serve at the Tevellyn family Christmas dinner that they were going to host. Emery loved watching her cook; Colette was so in her element. When encouraged, she would sometimes ramble a little — about the ingredients, the recipe, the history of the dish, an anecdote about when she'd had it before, or other associations she made between the food and a person or place from her past. Sometimes she would even sing while she cooked. She wasn't a 'quiet' person, but while cooking or chatting over a meal were the only times she ever rambled. Emery adored it.
They prepared most of the holiday food and desserts the day before. Emery set up and decorated the Christmas tree in between playing Colette's kitchen assistant. Emery's youngest brothers Ryker and Mason brought over a dining table and two extra chairs from their mom's house. The morning of the event, Colette got up early to make the final preparations. Not only did she want to make the best impression possible, but she also wanted to make the family's first Christmas without Altman as smooth and pleasant as possible.
Colette greeted Emery with "Joyeux Noël," as soon as she came out of the bedroom.
"You've been busy," Emery noted. "You don't need to stress, Col, they're going to love you."
"It's not 'zat," Colette smiled appreciatively and kissed her girlfriend good morning. "It iz my love of 'ze food," she added jokingly.
Emery took a quick shower while Colette made her crepes. After she was dressed, Colette instructed her to "sit and enjoy," then disappeared into the bedroom. Colette made the bed, took a shower, got dressed and cleaned the bathroom. Emery had washed her breakfast dishes and was wiping the kitchen sink when Colette re-entered the room.
Colette listed off all the things that were done and ready for guests' arrival. "'Ave I missed any'zing?"
"No, my love, it all sounds perfect," Emery reassured her. "Are you sure you're okay? You seem a bit stressed. If anything else needs to be done, we'll handle it together, alright?"
Colette nodded with a sad smile. "It will be an 'ard day."
Now Emery understood what she meant. It wasn't about Colette meeting her family; Colette knew that holidays were different after the loss of a family member. Emery's eyes welled with appreciation for her girlfriend. Her empathy and consideration for what she and her family were going through made her feel so loved.
"Everything's ready," Emery concluded in a soft tone. "Do you want to call Beatrice to say Merry Christmas?"
Warmth replaced the sadness in Colette's smile. She nodded at Emery, kissed her on the cheek, and took out her phone to call her sister.
----------
Emery's sister Aria, her boyfriend Chase and their dog Rusty were the first guests to arrive. Emery greeted them at the door, took their coats and guided them upstairs.
"Do you guys need help setting up or finishing anything?" Chase asked Emery. "Sorry we're a bit early. I didn't want the snow to make us late."
"That's kind, Chase, no need to apologize. And we're all set up, thank you," Emery responded earnestly.
They entered the main room where Colette greeted them. Aria immediately went over for a hug.
"I heard the boys got extra time with you and I was jealous," Aria joked to Colette. "It's so lovely to finally meet you properly."
"You as well, enchanté," Colette smiled. "I 'ave 'eard so much about all of you."
Aria and Colette got to know each other while Emery and Chase did some catching up, and Rusty conducted a sniff-vestigation around the room. It wasn't long before the rest of the Tevellyn family arrived. Emery's mother, Bridget, and the youngest brothers Ryker and Mason walked over from the family home down the road. At Bridget's request, Emery started playing her guitar alongside some Christmas music. Chase and the boys were happy to see each other and they immediately started joking around and dancing together.
Emery's brother Matthew and his wife Dorothy arrived last. In an uncharacteristically nice gesture, Dorothy brought freshly baked bread. Colette was thrilled, noting it would complement the hearty vegetarian stew she made. To almost everyone's surprise, the two then had a cheerful conversation about cooking for several minutes. Emery and Matthew set the table, careful not to interrupt.
"I 'ope it iz OK 'zat I did not make turkey," Colette said to the group as they started taking their seats around the dining table. "'Ze stew iz végétarien, in Simçais it iz called 'ragoût de légumes'... and 'zen I made some of 'ze fish 'zat Emery caught and vegetables from 'er garden."
"That's lovely, Colette," Bridget said warmly. "I'm sure it will be delicious."
"Emery was always so good at gardening and storing the harvest well to last as long as possible," Matthew commented quietly. He was standing a few steps from the table and Colette wondered if she was the only one who heard him.
Colette turned to him to agree, "I was impressed it all seemed fresh. She iz amazing."
Matthew smiled at her warmly, "It was also very nice of you to make something vegetarian for Ryker."
Colette was a bit confused by this. "It would be rude not to," she replied.
"I suppose it would," Matthew chuckled. "I hadn't thought of it like that. He loves to go fishing, so I always forget he doesn't eat fish."
Everyone took their seats and enjoyed the meal, followed by pie, cookies and other treats for dessert. Colette received many compliments for her cooking, and conversation flowed easily. It almost felt like a normal holiday. Stories from when they were young, commentary about books, and talk about fishing all opened the door for sadness about their dad's absence. But it was also nice to remember him. The only alternative was to forget him, and Emery hoped that would never happen.
Colette was pleasantly surprised by how long everyone stayed and how much they helped clean up after the meal. The whole event felt relaxed and comfortable. Instead of being exhausted afterwards, she found herself looking forward to hosting them all again.
"I really like your family," Colette told Emery as they got ready for bed.
"You can join it," Emery joked. "They already love you."
"You think?" Colette asked earnestly.
"I told you they would," Emery smiled at her. "Now come here so I can say thank you for being such a good host."
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Winter faded into spring. Emery got to work bringing her garden back to life. She wanted to get as much out of it as possible for the next two growing seasons, after which she would fertilize and let it rest dormant for the two years they'd be in France. It was nice to get outside again. She liked experiencing the changing weather and getting her hands dirty. She recalled Colette's mother used to grow grapes that her father made into nectar, and thought maybe she and Colette could have a similar arrangement. Emery planned to prepare the soil to be ideal for nectar grapes she could bring back from their trip. If Colette decided she wanted to be a nectar-maker in Appaloosa Plains, Emery would make that dream a reality.
Emery found it easier to focus on aspects of their trip than to try to write or paint. No inspiration was needed for trip-planning. When Colette was nearby, she would research nectar grapes, fishing spots and places she could work on her next book in Champs Les Sims; when Colette was busy, she looked at options for romantic weekends and engagement rings.
Colette enjoyed having so much time to relax, read, and focus on her cooking. As the garden yielded more harvests, Colette could learn and invent more recipes with the ingredients. Once in a while, Ryker and Mason would come by and ask if Emery wanted to go to Cinnamon Crest Falls with them to do some fishing, and Colette would have the freshest fish to work with that a chef could ask for. Emery always appreciated the food she made. They settled into a routine of domesticity that they both found comforting.
Ryker's 19th birthday was that summer. Emery and Colette decided to host his birthday party so Bridget wouldn't have to fuss and the family could still celebrate Ryker officially entering his young adulthood. Chase offered to babysit Rukiya's son Kobe so that she could attend and get to know Colette better. In exchange, Rukiya drove Aria—and her keyboard—to the party. Aria played music and everyone socialized. Well, except for Dorothy, who skipped the event. Matthew didn't say why Dorothy didn't come, just that she sent a freshly baked loaf of bread as an apology for her absence. No one pushed him for more information. Aria tried to be polite about it but it was obvious she was pleased.
While Colette finished preparing lunch and Aria played her keyboard for everyone, the others paired off to chat around the room. Emery and Bridget discussed their gardens, Mason prodded Matthew with questions about horseback riding, and Ryker caught up with Rukiya, asking about her son, garden and home. Ryker was considering building a house for himself on Rukiya's street and wanted her opinion.
"I'm still years away from building it," Ryker clarified. "But dad and I were starting to talk about it. So I want to keep talking about it, you know?"
"You're welcome to come by anytime," Rukiya assured him.
"Yeah maybe I should," he smiled. "I could play with Kobe, too, keep him occupied for you for a while."
"That would be great," Rukiya agreed. "How is your mom holding up?"
"She's okay, I think," Ryker shrugged. "As okay as she can be. She still cries a lot. Mason and I are looking after her, though… And I'll stay with them until they're both for sure okay for real."
"You're a good kid," she said, touching his shoulder. "Make sure you take care of yourself, too, you know?"
Ryker nodded. Colette announced the food was ready and they made their way to the kitchen to grab plates. Matthew and Aria decided to eat outside in the chess table chairs and enjoy the warm summer day. Mason pulled Emery's desk chair over to the dining table.
"I should've made the boys bring your chairs over again," Emery commented to Bridget.
"Oh, don't fuss over that," Bridget brushed her off. "It was very nice of you and Colette to host again."
When Matthew and Aria came back in, it was time for cake! The family sang and cheered. Ryker blew out his candles.
"Thanks, everyone, seriously," Ryker said to the group.
"Do you feel old now?" Mason asked. "Because you look super old now," he laughed.
"Shut up," Ryker said with a smile.
Mason was on the other side of the dining table. Likely as a precaution to avoid being shoved.
Rukiya and the Tevellyns all left shortly after they finished their cake. Colette and Emery tidied up and agreed they'd go to bed early.
"I'm exhausted," Colette complained as she joined Emery on the bed.
"Too exhausted?" Emery probed with a mischievous grin.
Colette chuckled. "We're still in our clothes… We're so tired we didn't even change before lying down."
"I hate when you wear clothes," Emery joked. "And we definitely should not be wearing clothes in bed."
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By the time the leaves were overtaken by their autumn colours, Colette was running out of books to read in Emery’s bookshelf. She’d even borrowed some from Bridget and finished those as well. It was great practice to read so much in Simlish. Colette’s favourites were actually the four books that Emery wrote, even though that felt sappy to admit. She really enjoyed experiencing Emery’s writing improve over each one. It felt uniquely intimate to read her work.
The one year anniversary of Emery’s father’s passing was approaching. It was clear it was on her mind. She managed to keep up with the garden, and when one of her brothers asked, she’d go fishing with them. But she was also quieter again, zoning out more, and spending more time in bed. Colette tried her best not to worry too much. Grief isn’t a linear process. It would take time.
One morning, Colette woke up to find Emery wasn't in bed. She couldn't hear the shower running. Strange. She yawned and stretched. Maybe she could hear water running? Colette got up and wandered into the main room. The early morning light cast a soft glow through the autumn leaves and the house's large windows. Emery was leaning over the kitchen sink with her hands covered in soap suds.
"Ma belle," Colette approached quietly. "Are you alright?"
Emery stayed focused on the sink as she replied, "Sorry if I woke you."
"You didn't… are you 'aving trouble sleeping?"
Emery just sniffled and drained the sink.
"Ma cherie," Colette prompted gently. "Parle-moi. Qu'est-ce qu'il y a?"
Emery turned towards her, but avoided eye contact. Her eyes were red from crying. Colette sighed sympathetically and reached out to gently take Emery's hand.
"'Ow can I 'elp?" Colette whispered.
Emery shrugged. Colette rubbed Emery's hand with her thumb. They stood in silence for a moment.
"I'm just sad," Emery finally said with a huff. "It's stupid."
Colette shook her head in disagreement. "It iz normal."
"I miss painting," Emery admitted. "But I can't seem to—"
The words caught in her throat. How was she supposed to explain all the thoughts that had been swirling in her head? She wasn't even sure if her creative block was because she was grieving her father's loss, or if it was something else, or a combination of things. She breathed unsteadily, trying not to cry.
"You don't need to explain," Colette said softly. "I want to listen, if you want to tell me. Talking 'elps. But, it can be whenever you want. It does not 'ave to be now. I will be 'ere when you are ready."
Emery nodded. "I know."
"I will say," Colette added, "about 'ze painting… it iz good to take a break after a loss. 'Ze inspiration will retourne. And if you miss being at 'ze easel, you can always just play. Not every'zing needs to be a masterpiece, hm?"
Emery kissed her suddenly, leaning in and catching Colette by surprise. They smiled at each other.
"I love you," Emery whispered. "And you've given me an idea."
Colette inquisitively raised an eyebrow.
Emery kissed her playfully with several quick pecks. "Thanks." She walked towards her computer.
"An idea to paint on 'ze computer?"
"Not for a painting," Emery clarified. "My next book." She pressed the power button and plopped into her desk chair while she waited for the machine to boot up.
"Ah!" Colette exclaimed. "'Zis calls for celebration crepes."
Emery giggled and turned to look over her shoulder at Colette across the room. How did she get so lucky? And how did it take her so long to realize she had a muse now? She realized her gaze was lingering on Colette's butt as she moved around the kitchen. Colette had slept in her underwear and hadn't changed yet. She looked incredible. 'Focus,' Emery reminded herself. 'Don't lose your momentum.'
She started fleshing out the concept and drafting a rough outline, as well as a list of things she wanted to learn about before deciding on any details. When inspiration struck, she allowed herself to flow through a paragraph or two and save them as drafts to be refined or reworked later. Colette's crepes fueled her for almost a full day of working on her novel. It was such a relief that she had broken free of her writer's block!
Over the following weeks, Emery opened up to Colette more about her grief and her insecurities about returning to writing and painting. It did help to talk. She also took Colette's advice and started returning to her easel with a goal to practice and do studies with colours or techniques to 'play' rather than try to create her next masterpiece. That was also really helpful. She felt more free to experiment than she had in the past. Emery hadn't really explored her emotions on a deeper level through her work. Conveying emotions in her pieces, yes—she often had a 'feeling' she wanted the viewer to experience. But starting with self-reflection and letting her instincts and brushes guide the work? That was new for her, and felt interesting. She felt …back. Back to herself, back in her work, and deeper in love with Colette than ever. Life finally felt good again.
***
Author's Notes:
Simçais is a play on français (French) in the same way Simlish is a play on English. Since the game uses regular country names (e.g. France, China) and cultural descriptor words (e.g. French Culture hidden trait, Chinese garden), I use these the same way (e.g. Emery's friend Amelia is English because she is from England, but they both speak Simlish).
For storytelling purposes, I've changed the timing of some events compared to how they occurred in my Build A City Challenge gameplay. Obviously, Emery did not "attend art school" for 8 months on her first trip to France in my game; I used her Lifetime Happiness Points to get the Prepared Traveller reward and did a 6-day trip (with an extra cost of $2,000 per challenge rules). She spent most of her trip doing tombs etc. to get Visa Level 1, but she also built her relationship with Colette Bonnet and proposed to her on the last night of the trip. The day after Emery returned to Appaloosa Plains, she invited Colette to visit and then move in. Colette did not actually travel to France and back by herself after coming to Appaloosa Plains as shown in this story. Instead, on their next round in my rotational play, they spent some time living together (earning lifetime rewards points for the Prepared Traveller and Jetsetter lifetime rewards) and then took their first trip together as a couple, which is the inspiration for the '2 years in Appaloosa Plains, 2 years in Champs Les Sims' storyline.
Emery and Colette's next chapter will include: Emery's proposal from her first trip to Champs Les Sims; screenshots from the first trip they took together in my challenge save file; and staged screenshots for storytelling as though they were living there for a time.
As always, this chapter included screenshots from my original challenge gameplay where possible. For example, the “Ryker’s birthday” pictures were actually from Emery’s Adult birthday, which won’t occur in the story for several more chapters due to how I later adjusted my Sims’ life stages to be more aligned with real-life. (If you’re curious, I now consider 2 Sim days to be roughly 1 real-life year. The Baby and Teen life stages are shorter but the rest are longer. It works out to a total of 150 days; 60 days longer than the “normal” but 40 days shorter than the “long” lifespan.)
I didn’t plan to make a Simlit story about this challenge when I first started playing it in 2018 (let’s not think about how long ago that was, haha!), so my screenshots and notes are limited from the early gameplay. I made the lifespan/age adjustments shortly after I started writing and this story is written according to those changes. My hope is that when the story finally catches up to where I got in the gameplay, the chapters will be much easier and faster to write because less reshoots (to show correct ages) and organization time will be necessary.
Thanks for enjoying this silly project with me!
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