aidenlyons

[aidenlyons]

After they return to Chestnut Ridge, Aiden calls Yufit to see if he can come and talk to him about finishing his lessons and getting his certifications.

Soon after, he travels back to the shop that holds so many memories for him, good, bad and awkward.

A: Hey, Yufit. It's been a while. Thanks for seeing me.

Y: No problem. How've you been?

A: Good. Really good. Jake and I are back together.

Y: Mm. Saw the news, what happened to him. Doing well?

A: Yeah. Healed up pretty well.

Y: Good to hear. You said you had a favor to ask?

A: Yeah. I was hoping.. I want to get my certification. For tattooing, you know. I wanted to ask if you would help?

Y: Been a while. Might have to start over a bit.

A: I'm willing to put the work in. This is something I really want.

Y: Well, alright. Let me look at my schedule. Could do a couple days a week, how's that sound?

A: Yeah. My schedule is wide open right now. Sounds good. Thanks, for this.

Y: No problem. You gotta follow your passion. Even if the road is winding to get there. Happy to help, you got skill.

A: Yeah. I feel like.. I needed to step back, work on my art before I did this.

Y: Path's not always a straight line, kid. But we always get back to it.

A: Sounds like you believe in Fate.

Yufit laughs low, a whole host of emotions contained in the sound.

Y: You got no idea. I've been around. Experienced a lot. Always came back to the same spot though, no matter the detours.

A: No doubts? About where your path led you?

Y: Nah. I'm where I'm supposed to be, for now. Might change. Might not. Stopped fighting it years ago.

A: Maybe someday you'll teach me how you do that.

Y: Years of practice, kid.

A: You're not that much older than me.

Y: Mm. You wouldn't think so.

A: I'm confused.

Y: Don't think too hard about it.

Unfortunately telling Aiden not to think about something has never really worked, he's not one that can just let things go so easily. It's too odd, some of the things Yufit has said.

Y: I got an appointment soon, only had a few minutes. Come by on Tuesday, 10am, we'll get a schedule sorted.

Aiden can only nod, still feeling a little confused.

A: Yeah, sure thing. I'll see you then. And.. thanks again.

Y: No problem. Happy to help.

[aidenlyons]

Shopping takes longer than it should, but that's partially because Aiden gets a little distracted by some of Jake's new outfits. It's a good thing they decided to stay the night.

A: This might have been a little excessive.

J: Maybe. Worth it though.

A: Don't go to sleep on me yet.

J: I'm not. Just taking a moment to appreciate what we have back home. I forgot how noisy it can be here.

A: I never thought I'd miss the country so much.

J: Amazing how quick you get used to something. C'mere.

Aiden leans back against Jake and relaxes, sighing happily and listening to the sounds of the city.

A: I'm glad we did this. Really. I feel like we've been really busy lately.

J: I'm sorry, babe. I'll do better. We're just adjusting.

A: I know. Look at that, can't even see the stars.

J: Mm. Weather's only getting nicer, we can lay out and stargaze properly stargaze when we get home.

A: Tell me more about what you've been doing for people.

J: Not sure there's much to tell. It's a lot of manual labor. A couple people needed temporary help, one was sick another twisted their ankle. Some of it is handyman work. Fixing fences, siding, things like that.

A: I didn't even know you could do things like that.

J: I grew up with a single mom who put everything into football stuff for me, babe. I learned to do what I could to save us money.

A: I never thought about that. The building manager always took care of stuff for us.

A: It's weird to think how similar but very different our lives were before we met.

J: Mmm. I guess I never thought about it. I'm looking to the future.

A: The future, huh?

J: Mhm. You and me, Aiden. I see a long future for us.

A: I hope so. I feel like you're planning something.

J: Not really. I'm done planning too far ahead. Now I'm just enjoying every day I have. Or I'm trying to, at least.

A: Watcher, you're such a sap.

J: You love me and my sappiness.

A: Yeah. Yeah, I do.

When they're getting ready for bed, Aiden crawls in behind Jake, making him chuckle a little.

J: What are you doing?

A: Cuddling.

J: Okay. Not that I mind, but this is not normally how you want to cuddle.

A: Maybe I just want to be the big spoon tonight.

Jake is amused by Aiden but he doesn't really care, though he does try and keep his full weight off him.

A: Hey Jake?

J: Yeah?

A: Have you ever thought of getting a tattoo?

J: Not really. Trying to convert me?

A: Did I ever tell you, that when we were apart, I was learning to be a tattoo artist?

J: No, you didn't. What happened?

A: I started focusing on my painting more, and just.. I don't know. I was just thinking, a tattoo right here would look good.

J: Have you been thinking of going back to it?

A: I don't know. I'd still have to get licensed if I wanted to.

J: If you want to, you should go for it. I love your tattoos, I love that you designed them.

A: Would you let me do one for you?

J: If you designed it for me, yeah. I trust you. If this is something you really want, I'll do anything I can to help. I know you've been a bit restless lately with your painting.

A: You're amazing, you know that? I couldn't make someone better if I tried. I don't know how I always forget how much you see.

J: When it comes to you, of course. I love you, Aiden. You're important to me. What you want is important to me.

A: Then I guess I have to call Yufit, see if I can get certified. What you want is important to me too, you know.

J: I know. But right now, I'm happy. I'll let you know if that changes, I promise.

A: Good. I'm still going to paint you though.

J: Looking forward to it.

[aidenlyons]

Aiden spends a lot of mornings in his studio, working on paintings or sketches, whatever mood hits him. Jake goes for runs in the morning before he goes to whatever jobs he has lined up for the day.

Sometimes it's lonely but most of the time the hours fly by.

This morning though, Jake manages to sneak in and slip his arms around Aiden when he pauses.

A: Hey. I thought you were out?

J: Started raining. Miserable to run in the rain. This looks amazing.

A: You sure? It's not my usual...

J: Yeah, but that can be good, right?

A: Yeah. I was just experimenting.

J: I like it.

A: Hm. What are you doing today, then?

J: Thought about taking a trip for some clothes. Not really a clothing store around here.

A: You don't have any work today?

J: Nah, gave myself the day off.

A: Can you do that?

J: Yep. Since I already did.

A: When will you be back, then?

J: Come with me. We can make a day of it. And you can tell me exactly what you want me to pose in for you...

A: Hmm.. Watcher, that sounds good, yeah. A day out, huh?

J: Yep. Just you and me, babe.

A: When will we be back?

J: I don't know. Maybe we should find a hotel, spend the night.

A: Jake! That's such a waste.

J: Why? We've both been working hard the last what, eight months or more?

A: Yeah, but...

J: We deserve something for ourselves too.

A: I love you, you know.

J: Love you too, babe.

A: We're really going to spend the night somewhere just to get you clothes to model for me?

J: And work clothes. You too.

A: Hm. Okay, okay. Lets go.

J: It'll be an adventure.

A: Always is with you.

Aiden kisses him softly, so full of love he can barely stand it. Knowing they don't have time for more. Teen him never would have dreamed of this when he snuck out of his mother's apartment, scared but determined never to go back.

[aidenlyons]

(WARNING: NSFW pictures below cut)

Their washer and dryer are fairly new but that doesn't explain why Jake finds Aiden looking so serious.

J: Babe, what're you doing?

A: Pondering the mysteries of the universe. Jake laughs a little, he can't help it.

J: What?

A: I put an even number of socks in here, Jake. They didn't all come out. Where do they go?

J: Did you check the vent?

A: I checked outside. No socks.

J: Babe, it's just socks.

A: It's not just socks. I mean, it is. But don't you wonder? No one knows where they go.

J: Well unless you want to take the dryer apart, I guess we'll never know. You sure you're ok?

A: Yeah. I guess.

J: Seems like something is bothering you. What can I do?

A: Kiss me?

J: Hm. Any time. You never have to ask for that, babe.

The angle is awkward but Jake doesn't care, he'll use any opportunity to kiss Aiden. It's an addiction. He hopes he never has to break it.

They've both been busy recently. When Aiden pushes to his feet and grabs Jake into another kiss, he realizes it's been a few days since they were like this.

A few days, for them, is an eternity.

Their bedroom is only a few feet away, but Jake can't be bothered to go there.

Aiden makes a surprised sound when he's pushed against the washer but never pulls his lips from Jake's. If his man wants to christen this bathroom... well.

It needs to be said. Someone needs to say it.

A: Jake.. the bedroom is really close.

J: You want to stop?

Well, when he puts it that way...

A: No, not really.

Aiden's breath catches when Jake yanks their bodies together and their lips find eachother's again.

Sometimes Aiden wonders if Jake secretly has a checklist of every place in the house they've had sex. Not that he's complaining.

(all poses in this post by the wonderful Simmireen)

[aidenlyons]

Jake spends a lot of the next day around town, familiarizing himself with the layout, the shops and businesses and introducing himself around. The people turn out to be really friendly.

J: Good afternoon!

S: Afternoon. You must be one of the newcomers.

J: News travels fast. I'm Jake Lawson.

S: Sienna Carrera. Nice meetin' you.

S: What brought you 'round these parts?

J: I recently found out my dad bought a place here, just before he died. My boyfriend and I decided to move in. We were.. at loose ends.

S: Think I know the place. Chestnut Ridge is great for second chances.

J: What is it you do here, Ms. Carrera?

S: Aw, Sienna's just fine. We're not big on formalities here. But I train horses right over there.

J: Really? I've never seen a horse in real life.

S: Well, if you're ever curious, come on by, we'll get you in the saddle.

J: Thanks for the offer, I'll think about it. Might be easier to get around here with a horse.

S: Horse's are big responsibilities. They need a lot of attention and care.

J: I get it. I do. Besides, I'd have to talk to Aiden, my boyfriend, before I even considered it.

S: Know what you'll do while you're here?

J: Not really. I was hoping for some sort of community board or something that might have odd jobs listed?

S: Oh sure, we got one of those. Down this road, straight on past the training center. Can't miss it.

J: Great! If you'll excuse me, I promised I'd be back by dinner and I want to take a look. It was nice meeting you!

S: You too. Look forward to seeing you around.

J: Thanks, have a good day!

There were several odd jobs Jake thought he could do. Some he wasn't certain about. He still noted down the numbers before deciding to head home. He DID promise to be home by dinner afterall. And he can't wait to tell Aiden about some of the residents he met.

Jake tells Aiden everything over dinner.

J: ... and everyone I met was really nice. How'd your day go?

A: I walked around a bit, there are some beautiful places I definitely want to paint. But mostly I just sketched some today. Sounds like we both had fun.

J: I'm really glad. Sienna offered to teach me how to ride a horse. I'm thinking about that, too. Could be fun.

A: A horse? Sounds scary to me, they're huge, aren't they?

J: Dunno, didn't see one yet. But probably.

A: Just be careful. But.. hm..

J: What 'hm'? A: It's nothing, I was just thinking about something.

J: Something bad?

A: No, no, definitely not.

J: What's on your mind, then, Aiden?

A: I was.. just wondering.. if you'd pose for me again, sometime.

J: Oh. Yeah, of course. You don't have to be nervous to ask me that.

A: Yeah, but.. Maybe you could.. this might sound stupid.

J: Tell me.

Aiden grabs their empty plates to buy himself a second.

A: Maybe you could... dress like a cowboy?

Jake blinks, then smirks as he turns toward Aiden.

J: Oh yeah?

A: I-if you don't mind?

J: I definitely don't mind.

J: Didn't know you had a thing for cowboys.

A: Not sure I do. Might just have a thing for you.

J: Smooth talker.

A: I had a good teacher.

Jake knows that look Aiden has and he's more than happy to play along.

J: What are you thinking? A cowboy hat? Some flannel?

A: Something like that..

(next few posts' poses by @simmerianne93 ❤️)

J: I have some ideas of my own..

Jake leans in, lips brushing as he teases them both for a moment, smirking as Aiden's breathing deepens and his eyes dilate. He'll never get tired of that response.

When their lips meet it's just as electric as every time. There's no neighbors, no one to tell them where they can and can't be, but still. Tonight Jake wants comfort for them both.

J: Lets go to bed.

A: Mmm.. yeah. Ok.

Bonus content. 😏

[aidenlyons]

A little after lunch, Aiden and Jake do go to visit their neighbors and introduce themselves. Aiden did, in fact, bring chocolate chip cookies. Unfortunately not all of their neighbors are at home. Or at least, answering their doors.

J: Chase was right, the neighbors were very nice.

A: They must have thought it was weird, two guys showing up at their doorstep. At least at first.

J: They were all friendly though. Even though we obviously stick out a bit.

A: Two city boys in the country, you mean?

J: I don't know if I'd calls us 'city boys'. Copperdale was pretty small. I guess Britechester was big.

A: But neither were THIS small.

J: That's true, I guess.

For a moment they fall quiet as they walk back toward the house, enjoying the fresh air.

J: Too bad we didn't get to talk to more of them. The Jackson-Palmers were nice though.

A: That's such a mouthful. Morgan and Dale were really nice, though, yeah.

J: They said they would introduce us to the Hazelwoods later, too.

A: Which makes today a success, right?

J: It did. I might go into town tomorrow, see if there's any community bulletin board or something. Thanks, for indulging me today.

A: Hey, it's good to know our neighbors, right?

J: Yeah. Yeah, that's what I think.

A: I think I might do some painting tomorrow. Maybe take my easel out, sketch out some landscapes.

J: Okay. But we'll both be back by dinner?

A: Sounds like a plan. It really is beautiful here. I'm really glad we're here.

J: I'm glad we are too, babe.

[aidenlyons]

Even though they're supposed to be walking later that day, Jake still prefers to start his day out with a jog. Aiden is not at all a morning person so he lets his boyfriend sleep as Jake goes out to take in the crisp morning air.

When his phone buzzes, Jake is reminded of the messages he forgot to check.

There's some pictures from his former teammates. A victory party the night before, and complaints about early morning training.

The messages make him laugh now, instead of sad that he isn't with them.

After a quick shower, Jake finds a sleep-rumpled Aiden.

J: Good morning.

A: Mmf. Morning. Go for a run?

J: Yep. You want some breakfast?

A: Yes, m'starving.

There's nothing quite like having your man cook you breakfast. At least that's what Aiden thinks.

A: You still want to go meet the neighbors today?

J: Yeah. Figured we could do that later, maybe after lunch?

A: I feel like we should bring cookies or something.

J: Cookies?

A: Or Pie? Isn't that what people do?

J: No idea. I don't think we have time for that unless you want to put it off until tomorrow?

A: We have time for cookies. Not pie. Don't want to put it off tho. Today is good.

A: This smells amazing, Jake. What did you put in these eggs?

J: Salt, pepper, cream, some chives. Nothing fancy. Saw a recipe online a few days ago.

A: Thought I was the cook.

J: I'm always up first. Pretty sure breakfast is my job.

A: Shush. I like to sleep in. Sue me.

J: You're adorable.

A: Am not.

J: You are to me, babe.

A: Shush. Eat your breakfast.

J: Yes, dear.

[aidenlyons]

It takes a few months to get renovations and furniture, but soon Aiden and Jake are settled in Chestnut Ridge.

J: Come outside with me.

A: Why?

J: It's a surprise. You'll be warm enough, I promise.

Aiden has never learned well how to handle surprises, but he could never resist Jake.

A: Ok, but let me grab a jacket-

J: You'll be warm enough without it, I promise.

A: Jake, what do you have planned?

J: Nothing bad, I promise.

J: There, not so bad, huh?

Aiden laughs lightly and leans into Jake's warmth.

A: No, it's not bad at all.

J: Good. Now that we're here, what do you think? Of how it turned out?

A: I love it, Jake. My studio is.. amazing. It's perfect. And the house is really cozy.

Jake seems to relax, pleased.

J: Good. I'm going to try and start looking for some local jobs. I'm going stir crazy.

A: Are you ok to? Your knee?

J: My knee is good. The doctor cleared me before we left. I need to do something.

A: I know. I just don't want you to hurt yourself.

J: I won't, promise. I'll take it easy.

A: Maybe tomorrow, we can go into town. See what's there? Maybe there's someplace they list want ads, or something.

J: Mm. That's a good idea. We could walk around here, too. Check out the neighborhood.

Aiden snorts, their nearest neighbor is 10 minutes away on foot, at least.

A: Well, aren't you a good neighbor.

J: Hey, I'm still supposed to exercise. And Colby said our neighbors were decent. Families.

A: Is that a hint?

J: No! No, Jake. Though.. we've never talked..

Jake chuckles lightly, nervously, playing with Aiden's fingers.

A: We're not good at talking about us, are we?

J: Not really. But I think.. we should start.

A: So...? What do you want to talk about?

J: Well.. how about marriage? Is that something you want?

Aiden snickers, cuddling closer.

A: Right to the big one's, huh? Yeah. Of course I want that, Jake. Someday.

J: Someday?

A: Mm. Doesn't have to be soon. No pressure. A lot has happened recently.

J: That's fair. For a moment they're silent before Jake takes a deep breath, more hesitant for this question.

J: And, um, do you ever.. want kids..?

A: Kids? Isn't it a bit soon for that? I'm enjoying it just being us.

Jake smirks, relaxing as he enjoys having Aiden so close.

J: Not this minute, Aiden. Just.. in the future, maybe?

A: Do YOU want kids?

J: Someday, yeah. Science has made some amazing advances. It'll let us have a kid together, if we want.

A: You've thought a lot about this?

J: Yeah, some. Since the game, and my knee. Talking to Colby about my dad.. I want that someday. With you.

A: I do too, Jake. Someday. I'd love to have a little girl we can spoil, you know?

J: I don't care what we'd have. When we're ready, we can talk about it again.

Aiden has to kiss Jake for that. Because he's in love, and he's happy, and he's convinced he has the hottest boyfriend around.

He's not an exhibitionist though. Since they're not exactly hidden from the road, he keeps it to just kisses. For now.

A: Hey! Hands to yourself, mister. We're outdoors.

J: So? You didn't seem to mind it that one time in the hot springs...

A: That was WAY more private than this!

J: Or you're just not very adventurous anymore.

Aiden is still laughing (giggling, really) over it and he shakes his head.

A: Hey! I was never as outdoorsy as you! I like my creature comforts. You're not the one face down-

J: Okay! I get it. Gotta keep my man comfortable.

A: Damn straight.

There's silence for a little while as they stare up at the stars, each of them in their own thoughts and considering their futures.

J: Those were my only big questions, for now. Did you have anything you wanted to talk about? Since we're talking..

A: Mm. Not really. A lot happened in a short time and I just.. feel like I want to decompress a little. Focus on my art.

J: What about your art shows?

A: I'm not going to do art shows anymore.

J: What? What do you mean?

A: I mean I hate doing them. I might still send in some paintings if they want to show them, but.. I'm not going. I'm happy selling online.

J: Are you sure? You were doing so well, getting your name out there.

A: I don't want fame. Or recognition. I'd rather keep it about my art, not my face.

J: Does this have anything to do with... you know.. your mom?

A: No.. nothing like that. I'm an adult now. Even if she found me, she couldn't bring me back. And her boyfriend, well.. I'm sure he's forgotten about me.

J: Ok, good. I want you to feel safe.

A: I do. I promise.

A: You know me though, Jake. What about me makes you think I'd like the spotlight?

J: That's true. You've always been more of a wallflower. You're adorable when you get all shy...

A: Shut up.

J: Make me.

Aiden certainly couldn't back down to a challenge like that, so he shut up Jake the best way he knew how..

[aidenlyons]

The day that Alessandro is coming over for a visit, the twins both are able to push themselves up. Wyatt is a little worried because if they're doing this already, they might be crawling soon and that seems like quick development to him.

Teagan continues to be unimpressed with his father's attempt to encourage him to crawl. Chase is excited about it, proud of his kids and the intelligence he thinks it shows.

When Alessandro gets there, he gets introduced to Briar first who takes an immediate liking to him.

A: She's very alert, her motor functions are quite advanced.

W: They're going to be crawling soon, I think. It seems fast?

A: For a normal child perhaps.

C: So they're not.. normal?

A: The chances of them being normal with a Spellcaster and Werewolf parents was slim, Chase. You knew this.

C: Yeah. Can you tell.. what they are? We just want to be prepared.

A: Yes. This little lady is certainly a werewolf.

W: And Teagan?

A: Hm. Yes. They both are. It seems you have two little pups on your hands.

C: Both werewolves?

Chase has been worried about this. They don't know anything about raising werewolves. He just wants to give his children the best life.

A: They won't be able to shift until they're teenagers. They might show minor abilities or tendencies before that.

W: They're healthy though?

A: Oh yes. Very. You've done well. I would expect them to be mobile soon.

Wyatt is unexpectedly relieved. They've been doing their best but it's nice to have validation.

W: That's good. Their Uncle Alex will help too, right?

Alessandro is surprised, but he smiles.

A: Of course. Anything you need.

[aidenlyons]

I'm a little late with this here, but one year ago I made my first post about a painfully shy, insecure young man living on his own. I didn't plan on telling his story, but his best friend's. He had other ideas.

A year later and his story become so much more than I ever imagined, and given me other stories to tell as well. Thank you to everyone who read/commented/liked or followed! I can't wait to tell more of his story!

[aidenlyons]

Random Holiday pictures from posts! Christmas and New Year's!

[aidenlyons]

Don't worry.. Wyatt apologized to Mitsuki for not paying more attention to her as well, and now they go on near daily jogs. Chase can take care of the twins for an hour or so. And Mitsuki is a much happier pup.

Looks like Teagan was the first to sit up on his own!! Finally beating his sister out on something and he is very smug about it.

And Teagan immediately goes to met Mitsuki's leg awkwardly. She supposes she could deal with the little ones if they're going to continue to become more interesting...

Chase tries to teach Briar to sit up on her own, and make sure that Teagan doesn't get too close to the fireplace, as Wyatt spends a little time in the morning working on some jewelry to sell. And maybe try to think ahead to the twins' futures...

Briar's turn!! She just needed a little help from her dad to finally learn how to sit up. And what does she do? Blows a raspberry at her brother.

Anything you can do...

[aidenlyons]

As for Chase and Wyatt. Well, they make time to spend together. Even if it's quiet moments of intimacy after the twins are put down for the night where they can soak in a tub together.

(NOTE: NSFW/Suggestive images below cut.)

And then there's the full moons. Chase doesn't always need to wolf out as much, his instinct to protect his pups keeping him home. But those nights they exhaust the twins in the daytime and hope they sleep soundly at night. Chase becomes very passionate and Wyatt is happy to help.

In the afterglow..

W: Mm. Alessandro is coming this week, don't forget.

C: I remember. He might be able to tell us if the kids will be Spellcasters or Werewolves, right?

W: That's what he said. They're old enough now.

W: Will it matter, what they inherited?

C: Oh, no. Not at all, sweetheart. I just want to be prepared. I've never met any werewolf pups before.

W: Mmm. Good point. It's hard enough to know what to do without that, huh? I know a bit about being a Spellcaster kid though.

C: We'll figure it out. Being informed is good, s'all.

W: We will. I love you.

C: Love you too. Now c'mere. The kids are asleep and I'm not done with you yet.

[aidenlyons]

There's not much time for a lot else in Wyatt and Chase's lives with two demanding infants. Luckily they have some good savings from Wyatt's sales of the magically imbued jewelry he sells.

It can be tough being an infant though. And the twins take to tummy time in very different ways. Teagan is not pleased at all while Briar starts out fine and only starts crying when she gets more tired.

Wyatt spends a little more time with the twins than Chase. Only because Chase is still working as a handyman and he's quite popular on the island. Wyatt doesn't pretend he doesn't know why. 😏

Briar and Teagan are racking up the milestones. They can both lift their heads and roll over. They've discovered their feet, are babbling, and Briar, the sweetheart, started blowing kisses! But only to her dad so far, since Chase was watching the twins to give Wyatt a chance to shower.

[aidenlyons]

While Aiden and Jake are having their house renovated, we're back in Sulani with Chase and Wyatt and the twins!

It's been hectic, watching the twins grow and the reality of having twins, and they still don't know if they are wolf, spellcaster, or neither.

Their personalities are definitely starting to come out now, and Teagan is the more high strung of the two. He likes playing with his sister and is easy going most of the time.

The problem is that Teagan also hates being on his own and he's very sensitive. He prefers to be held, and sometimes gets jealous of his sister when she's getting all the attention.

Thankfully he has some very doting parents and Teagan's dad and papa are there ready to soothe him and give him the attention that he wants.

Baby Briar, on the other hand, is an overall happy, bright baby. Always smiling and giggling, not minding being alone but loving being around her family too.

And maybe Chase dotes on her a little more because she's his baby girl. And sure, he doesn't know a thing about raising a girl so that plays a part too. Frankly he's so very smitten with both of his babies.

Briar is very curious about the world, too, always wanting to touch and poke at things, sometimes things that should not at all be touched and poked at.

Then again, sometimes some things should be poked at. Briar is the reason they got this bouncy chair in the first place. She kind of loves being in it and playing with everything.

(Chair poses by Alluringsims on Bluesky!!)

The one member of the household not impressed with the infants is Mitsuki who has been a bit neglected since they came around. While she's Wyatt's familiar and is there to assist him in his magic, she is still a canine who would like her master's attention.

Mostly now their days are filled with bottles and changings and playing with the twins while trying to continue with their own lives.

Thankfully at least the twins seem to keep Chase and his instincts calm. Though he leaves during Full Moons. Just in case.

The twins are revealing a few of their own personality quirks as well! Teagan, for example, seems to wet his diaper every time they feed him.

W: At least this means you'll sleep longer, huh, Tea?

Briar on the other hand? She tends to spit up more than her brother when she's fed. Chase has given up on it and just removes his shirt before feedings now. Easier to clean up that way at least.

Briar seems to enjoy the skin to skin bonding time with her dad too.

[aidenlyons]

J: It's just a little further.

A: You're ridiculous. Don't make me fall.

J: I want you to see it at once. I'd never let you fall, babe. Even with a bum knee.

A: I know. But c'mon. We've got to be there by now, good enough at least?

Aiden is nervous but excited, hadn't expected for Jake to practically blindfold him.

J: Almost there, I promise. It'll be worth the wait. Right here. That's it.

J: Tadaaa.

A: Oh. Wow. I don't know what I was expecting from what you said, but this is... kind of cozy.

J: Right? I guess my dad had simple tastes.

A: Needs some weed control.

J: Well it's been empty. We're lucky it's structurally sound. Colby's been keeping it up, at least.

A: Yeah.. It's so nice here.. Quiet.

Aiden is looking not only at the house but the surrounding area, the landscape, fingers itching for his paints or sketchpad.

J: Mhm. Nice change from Britechester, right? Especially those noisy neighbors we had upstairs. No neighbors here.

A: No, no neighbors. Close, at least.

J: So.. you like it?

A: So far. Can we go inside?

J: Absolutely, Colby gave me his key. Let me show you around, babe.

It's a small house, the tour is brief, though Aiden's interest in the bath makes Jake chuckle. The best is for last though, the former Greenhouse space in the barn.

J: Here it is.. I thought we could put your studio in here. Give you some privacy if you want it.

A: Not sure how much privacy there is in here with all the windows..

J: Smartass. You know what I meant. You can be alone out here if you need. What do you think?

A: It's.. I don't even know how to describe it. It's so nice, Jake.

J: Yeah? You like it?

A: I do.

A: I can see us here, Jake. It feels.. right. I think we should move here. Your dad would have liked it, I think.

J: Yeah, me too. So I can tell my mom we're moving?

A: Mhm. Yes. Can we walk back through the house? Some of it definitely needs a coat of paint.

J: Anything you want.

They go back inside to look around more closely.

A: I see what you mean about the appliances. Definitely need a new stove. And a fridge, since there isn't one..

J: I love that you're thinking about all this. I love that we're moving here.

A: And you accuse me of being a sap.

J: I can't help it. After the accident I felt... adrift. I didn't know what to do. I feel like I could have a purpose here.

A: I haven't seen you this excited about anything for a while. It's a good, I like seeing you this way.

J: I like it too. It feels good.

A: Hm. How is your knee? You've been on it for a while.

J: It's fine.

Jake leans in to press a kiss against Aiden's neck.

A: Jake! Don't try and distract me.

J: But it's more fun to distract you than to have you fuss at me.

A: I'm allowed to fuss.

J: Mhm. And I'm allowed to kiss you.

A: That is a good point. Come here.

[aidenlyons]

One thing about Aiden, he has a habit of sitting on or close enough to Jake to snuggle whenever possible.

Jake's very used to this by now.

J: Hey babe.

A: Hey.

J: Everything ok?

A: Mhm. Got us train tickets.

(poses by Simmireen - Couch Cuddles 3 pose pack!)

J: To Chestnut Ridge?

A: Yeah. For Saturday. Is that ok?

J: I have that PT appointment on Thursday, so Saturday is perfect. Thank you.

A: For what?

J: Being willing to uproot your life for me. Twice.

A: It's not like I have any attachment to any one place, Jake.

J: Do you ever miss it? Where you grew up?

A: .... no. I'm not sure it was ever really a home. My home is wherever you are, Jake.

J: You're so sweet, Aiden. Always. But you know if you really wanted to live somewhere else, that's ok, right?

A: Stop trying to talk me out of it before I've even seen it!

Aiden laughs at Jake's ridiculousness.

A: I know this is important. It was your dad's gift.

J: Sorry. Sorry. I know. I'm just nervous.

A: It means a lot to you. I know. If it's like you described, I'll like it. I like the idea of settling down somewhere.

J: Yeah? Done with your wild years?

A: I don't know about that....

Jake laughs and pulls Aiden into a firm hug as he snickers.

J: I don't mind settling down. Sounds nice.

A: White picket fence and everything?

J: Pfft, that would look horrible in Chestnut Ridge.

Aiden giggles and clings to Jake. Of course THAT is his only objection..