Gumball sat across Darwin with a firm look on his face. The two brothers were sitting in one of the tables of the cafeteria, far away from everyone. It was that one corner, that has a table perfect for private conversations such as these. Gumball had to book it from Rocky just so they that they could get the seat, which is ain't easy let me tell you. Still, what's done is done and Gumball sat a good distance away from Darwin with his tray of food in front of him, untouched. Not that it matters anyway, he lost his appetite for this long ago.
"Sooooo what do you want to talk about dude?" Gumball already regretted his decision, why can't he tell Darwin he is in a romantic relationship with their mom at home!? Why on earth did he think telling him at school is a good idea? Oh he could imagine all the possible worst case scenario! Gumball calmed himself down and then remembered why he did so. If he told Darwin about it at home, should he reject his relationship with Nicole, he would have run to their dad and told him the truth. At school though, even if he rejects the idea, it gave Gumball ample amount of time to try and "convince" Darwin before he reaches home. That being said, Gumball did his math and was certain that Darwin would at least be okay with it. I mean his Darwin, the most open guy Gumball had ever met. Gumball was certain that his best friend would support his relationship, however weird and obscure it maybe.
"It's important, and I want you to promise me that you won't tell ANYONE! Unless I say so, understand? I also want you to promise that you won't freak out and give me a chance to explain everything even if you do, okay?" Noting the seriousness in Gumball's voice, Darwin gulped and crossed his heart with a small but sincere smile on his face.
"Sure dude, I'm just glad you are willing to tell me." Gumball sighed and couldn't help but smile at that, Darwin really is a one in a million.
"The truth is, after I broke up with Penny-" Darwin immediately leaned closer with a serious and gruff expression on his face, knowing that this is a VERY important talk.
"I was really sad and depressed, it took me a while to get hold of myself and I did! But I didn't do it by myself, I had you guys that supported me but it was mainly mom who helped me out the most, directly and indirectly." Seeing Darwin giving a small nod that meant "go on". Gumball took a deep breath and played with his fork before continuing.
"When I cut myself with the crystal, I disappeared right? Well I was at another world, at another dimension. I know! I know! Don't freak out, well not yet! I- I actually met Zach there."
"What!? You mean the evil you?" Darwin tried his best to be calm, but find it hard to do so. He could imagine the epic stand off between Gumball and Zach as they tried their best to prove their worth to each other. He played enough games to know how it ended.
"Yeah and long story shot, we fought each other and he revealed somethings about me that I didn't know about myself."
"Like?" Gumball bit his lower lip and placed his hands together, this is it. He closed both of his eyes briefly and opened them slowly.
"One of them is... that I'm in love with mom." Darwin blinked his eyes together, his mind took a while to process but when it finally clicked he pushed his chair back with a "no way!". Now Gumball wasn't sure what to make of this, Darwin sounded shock than disappointed or disgusted. Which was more than okay in his book.
"So lately when mom and you keep laughing together is- she likes you too?!" A simple nod from Gumball was enough to refrain Darwin from shouting. He fan himself and kept whispering 'Ohmygod,Ohmygod!' over and over again.
"Look Darwin, it's important that mom and I know where you stand on this. Are you okay with it?" Darwin scratched his neck, in all honesty he expected this talk is something that involves Nicole and Gumball but he didn't knew it was something like this! His mind was in a confuse state, morals battling out with his love for family.
"I- I don't know. I mean you and I watch enough anime to know that, incest is wincest right?" Gumball smiled wryly, it's not that they PURPOSELY watch incest anime but you know in every anime, wholesome or not, there's always that ONE sibling who has a thing for their other sibling.
"And uh, well I know anime is anime and real life is real life but, I only want to know one thing." Gumball gulped when Darwin stared at him, dead in his eyes. The amount of seriousness in his eyes just worried the heck out of Gumball.
"Do you really love her?" Gumball didn't even hesitate to nod and smiled lightly. So Darwin was worried about that...
"I do, I really do. More than Penny even." Darwin smiled a bit when he heard that, he was happy that his brother moved on, even if it meant being with their mother. He couldn't help but blush at that statement, good lord what would happen if others knew?
"Well look dude it's weird okay, if people find out about this..." Darwin started slowly, he was sure that Gumball had thought of the consequences before but wanted to remind him again that this is not something that should be taken lightly.
"I know, we just have to be careful. I know that people will hate us for it but it makes mom happy too that I'm being with her. We will get through it together, I know that much." Seeing such conviction in Gumball's eyes, Darwin relaxed and leaned his head to the back of his chair.
"Look Gumball, as long it is consensual between you and mom, I'm okay with it. But have you ever thought about dad? I mean what about him? Have you told him yet?" Seeing Gumball's lack of response cause Darwin to be even more worried.
"If I took so much time to prepare just to tell you, how much time do you think I need just to tell dad?" Darwin winced at that, while his father is a very laid back person, the thought of the woman you loved being whisk away by your son is just... painful. It would shatter his pride! Everything would be turned upside down!
"But of course I have thought about him, I asked mom about her relationship with dad and uh..." Darwin was bracing for the answer.
"They don't really have one." Darwin gave a "yikes" and crossed his arms with a awkward look on his face, truth to be told he knew that their parents aren't exactly the most "lovey dovey" couple in the world. But to end up into a relationship like this? Was it desperation that caused his mother to turn to his brother?
"Is that why mom loves you? To get rid of the feeling of loneliness?" Gumball half expected this, but definitely not from Darwin. It seems like his brother had put more thought into this than he originally thought.
'He is way more sophisticated and thoughtful than I thought...' It made Gumball happy that he saw this side of Darwin.
"I- I wasn't taking advantage of mom if that's what you're asking and no, she didn't do that to me either. We just you know, fill the empty feeling in each other's hearts that's all. She gave me comfort and solace while I gave her warmth and affection. The stars just all align for us and well, our relationship happen. Believe me when I say I felt guilty as hell when I realized my feelings for mom. I was so scared and felt like utter trash that I wanted to-" Darwin placed his hand on Gumball's shoulder, he could hear the cracks in his voice as he rubbed his shoulders. No wonder he never told him all these things...
"It's okay buddy, I accept your relationship with mom. Okay? If you make her happy and she makes you happy go for it." Gumball gave teary smile and stood up to hug Darwin. As soon as they parted hugs, Darwin cocked his head to aside and bit his lower lip.
"Does Anais know?" Something tells Darwin she does.
"She's actually the first person I told about my feelings for mom, so yeah she knows. She supports us as well, seeing how happy mom is with me."
"She is dude, she is. Lately she's been smiling and laughing a lot. I know you two got close, you know every night you weren't in your bed, I figured you're sleeping with mom or even Anais. I thought it was weird at first but thought nothing about it. Now though, I got the full picture." Gumball rubbed the back of his neck, he wasn't even trying hide the fact that he was sleeping with Nicole.
"Well what could I say, she's really awesome." Darwin leaned back to his chair and rubbed his forehead, despite accepting his brother's love for their own mother it did felt weird. Many thoughts were processed through Darwin's mind, is Gumball my father? How would dad's reaction be like if he knows the truth? What if they break up? Would the family be the same ever again?
"Well with that out of the way, I guess I could finally stop hiding from you." Gumball grinned when Darwin shot him a deadpanned look, it did irked Darwin to no end how secretive Gumball has been lately.
"Yeah... but listen Gumball, I'm happy that you found someone and all but have you thought about Penny?" Gumball's look of puzzlement caused Darwin to sigh, he didn't want to go into detail but since Gumball is somewhat of an airhead...
"Have you, you know talk to her? After the whole Zach fiasco?" Gumball blinked his eyes and rubbed the back of his neck, how long has it been since they last talk? Or even greet each other? It felt like forever.
"Well uh, I don't think I did. Why?" Darwin's eyes were twitching, he was very surprised on how nonchalant Gumball is acting, especially when it's about Penny! Sure she is his ex-girlfriend but damn was Gumball ever so in love with her! Now he is acting like he has forgotten to buy something from the grocery store and was recalling his memory!
"Do you feel anything for Penny now?" Gumball shrugged almost instantly, don't know, don't care.
"Not really, I have mom, that's more than enough." Darwin was horrified, is this what would happen to him if he breaks up with Rachael? Acting like the love they had together was nothing when he found someone else!? Sure he was looking up to Gumball as he role model but damn... he didn't want to treat his past love like nothing! Should it ever happened to him!
"Chill man it's not the end of the world, I moved on and I'm sure Penny did to. I mean she's a cheerleader, she's popular and pretty! She will find a boyfriend in no time, who knows he might treat her better than I did!" He said the last part with a smile of irony. Darwin only nodded slowly and painfully as he toyed with his food with the fork. Did his mother had such an effect on Gumball? He never knew!
"So uh, how's mom like? You know being in a relationship with her." The awkwardness in his voice couldn't be more obvious, Darwin didn't want to ask the question but the curious side of him just force his mouth to open.
"She's very loving and affectionate." Gumball wasn't comfortable to discuss about Nicole's "wild" side of her with Darwin. He end it there as he finally started to eat just to end the conversation.
"Ah okay, at least she trusts you." Gumball could understand that, Nicole never once showed her playful mischievous side before, well not in a really obvious manner. It did made Gumball really happy that she trust him that much to reveal the side of her no one ever knew.
"So when are you gonna tell dad?" Gumball stopped eating and stared at Gumball with a stern and stoic look, Darwin hastily looked back down onto his food and spoke in a meek tone.
"I'm just worried for you guys that's a-all!" Gumball sighed for the umpteenth time and leaned back to his chair with his arms crossed
"I will tell dad when it is time, leave the worrying to me Darwin alright?" Darwin only nodded at his brother's words.
"So Darwin accepts us? Being together?" Nicole leaned her breast onto Gumball's shoulders, she hugged his arm tenderly as she delightfully inhale he scent. Gumball managed a smile and got comfortable on the bed before replying.
"Yeah, he says he is okay with it as long it is mutual." Nicole couldn't help but to smile even brighter, she make a mental note to make Darwin a special breakfast just for him. She nuzzled into the crook of Gumball's neck as she purred.
"That's wonderful! Things are going smoothly for us." Gumball played with Nicole's hair as he gently ran his hand right through her silky long hair. He absentmindedly nuzzled on it. God was her scent was ever so intoxicating. Cuddling like this was always a "ritual" for them before they sleep. It was something Nicole always wanted to experience it with Richard but he was already asleep the moment he climbed onto the bed. It helped that Gumball was the more experienced lover as well. She didn't doubt Gumball's courting session with Penny, thinking about it now she felt a little jealous that she was his first girlfriend.
"Gumball... have you talk to Penny lately?" This again? Gumball stared at his mother and shook his head slowly with a confused look on his face. Why did it matter that he talk to Penny? Nicole sighed and shuffled closer to Gumball, if it was even possible. Nicole was practically leaning her entire body onto Gumball.
"It's just that I think you should you know? She must be worried after the whole thing with Zach... I think you should talk to her about it." Gumball rubbed his cheeks, he wasn't too keen talking to Penny. Heck, she might not even want to talk to him about it. Besides, Gumball was certain that Penny's worrying was just but a short while, she would forget about it and thought nothing of it. He was certain about that.
"I don't think she wants to talk to me... I think she's avoiding me and I think that's for the best honestly."
"But-" Nicole then felt Gumball holding her hand.
"But nothing! I have you mom, that's all I need." How could she resist that? He always know what to say to make her heart race. She smiled again and kissed him on the lips tenderly but passionately. Gumball as shock as he is, gladly welcomes the affection and return the favour. Things started to heated up when Gumball kissed Nicole's neck.
"Gumball I think we should stop." Nicole's voice was strained when Gumball bit lightly on her neck.
"Hmm?" She cursed at Gumball's ability to make her feel good, her skin felt the gentle laps of Gumball's tongue onto her neck.
"S-School tomorrow." Gumball sighed and pulled back from his "attack", he stared at Nicole who was touching the hickey that Gumball gave her.
"Fine, fine, guess no more kisses for tonight." Nicole pouted, she wasn't going to let that happen. She snaked her arms around Gumball and pulled him to her lap.
"I thought I had school tomorrow?" Gumball grinned when his mother kissed his forehead. She was definitely the touchy and affectionate type.
"One more kiss won't do any harm would it?" Gumball didn't bother to retort when he felt his mother stroke his cheek lovingly. They kissed each other passionately, Gumball felt Nicole's hand running through his hair and was ruffling it softly.
"School." Nicole parted her lips with his and grinned at Gumball's dazed face, she knew she was a good kisser. Gumball regained his senses and laid his head on the pillow, he stared at his mother who turn off the lights before joining him in sleep.
It has been weeks since Gumball told Darwin about his relationship with his mother. Things couldn't go even more smoother as he and Darwin got back on track with Anais spending more time with them. However, that all changed during one fateful Friday night.
"Your dress looks pretty Nicole." Nicole who had her hair tied into a ponytail was wearing a white blouse and short black skirt stopped eating her dinner halfway when Richard complimented her. How long has it been since he complimented her on her clothing? And why he only did so now? She stared at him who was looking at her with great interest.
"T-Thanks Richard." The children most noticeably Gumball got wary of this, since when did their father paid attention to their mother? Gumball didn't like this one bit and was starting to get worried on this matter. What if Richard starts noticing Nicole as his wife again? What if he wants to be more intimate with her again? He gripped his utensils tight, eyeing his father with a stone cold gaze. Boy was he possessive and jealous.
"So what are you all planning to do tonight? It's Friday night, I suggest that we go out to the mall!" This was definite weird, their father never suggest on going out on a Friday night. Anais narrowed her eyes and started to be the first one to ask. She didn't know why, but somethings was terribly off about her father.
"Dad we could just stay at home, besides why do you want to go out?" She didn't mean to sound edgy or rude but after learning that her father was the reason her mother was unhappy before her relationship with Gumball. She didn't exactly like him too much. It also didn't helped that she started to see Gumball more of her father and protector, he did the responsibilities of a father by looking after her, cleaning the house and she knew if Nicole allowed Gumball to look for a job, he would do that just for the family.
"Why not? It would be fun? Don't you want to see a movie?" Richard was oblivious to his daughter's tone of dissatisfaction. Darwin crossed his arms and titled his head, he wasn't sure what to make of it. While his relationship with his father was mostly unchanged, that didn't mean Darwin didn't have a different view on him. After confronting about his mother about it, he learned that his father has abandoned his mother's needs as a woman. That they lost the spark they had, that he never showed any affection towards her and the one that got him agitated and angry of all, was the fact that his father was oblivious to his depressed and sad wife. Any fool would know if their wife feels lonely, but Richard was a bigger fool than that. He didn't appreciate the amazing woman he was married to.
"We could watch a movie at home! I did rent some DVDs." Nicole chuckled when Darwin pulled out a DVD cover, she turned her attention to Gumball that eyed his father like some predator stalking his prey. She didn't like this one bit and was sure that something would escalate if this keeps going further.
"But going out as a family is fun! It's been a long time since we all go out together." Richard was whining like a child, the family stared at him and sighed inwardly. They have been spending time together as family, but Richard never took part in it. The past few weeks, Nicole had brought the kids out to the park or had spend most of her time with them. Gumball did a good job by balancing, his love life, family and school. For the most part, the family always got together sharing day to day stories and affairs. They never really kept secrets from each other and they had become closer than ever before.
Nicole had gotten better at controlling her mood and anger, she had been more calm and more motherly lately thanks to Gumball influence. She rarely raise her voice nowadays and the only exceptions was during night time with Gumball at their room... for reasons.
Anais on the other hand has been acting more like a little girl and less of a prodigy genius, that's not to say she has become less intelligent, but genuinely right now if you ask the family what they think of her, they would say little girl before a genius first.
Darwin has helped Gumball to share the burden of looking after the family, they took turns on playing with Anais and spending time with her. Each of them had their own love life so they knew that one person couldn't always spend their time babysitting their sister. He also got closer to Gumball and was generally more mature and calm. Gumball did had a huge influence on him.
"W-Well I'm not against it but our budget is running tight." Nicole found it easy to lie to him now, back then she could barely lie through her teeth. Now it was like lying to him was a norm, something that didn't require skill. While they weren't rich, Nicole had recently been promoted and had received a higher income. She didn't disclose this information with anyone accept with Gumball, since she thinks he is mature enough to handle it. Needless to say, Gumball had been asking financial advice from her ever since and she was more than happy to teach him about it. She wasn't sure why he needed the knowledge until later on in life but she guess that Gumball wanted to find a side job or something to help out the family. Which again, made her love him even more.
"We don't have to spend that much! Movie tickets aren't so expensive anyway, besides I think the kids needs some time to rewind themselves." Gumball had enough of this and gave him the calculative and cold look that he used when he was against Tobias. Luckily for him, he got along with Gumball just fine now and he was even considered a close friend.
"Oh? And since when you cared for our well being father?" Gumball's tone was icy cold, his hands were clasped together with his elbow supporting the table. He knew he hit a nerve when Richard flinched, it was almost as if he felt guilty for not caring their well being from the beginning. Nicole was about to scold Gumball about it, wanting him to remember that this man is still his father but she refrained from doing so. She too was curious why Richard was concerned over their well being.
"Gumball young man you watch your tone!" Gumball did not faltered at his father raising his voice, he was scary when he is angry but Gumball was surprisingly not scared of him, not at the slightest. He observed Richards's expression and noticed his attire was different, he dressed more smartly now and wasn't dressed in his usual attire. He had combed his hair back and made an effort to make himself look clean and presentable.
"I'm just asking a question father. No need to be angry." It was that voice that was both calming and taunting, Gumball knew exactly what he was doing. He was well aware of his siblings and his lover's concerned looks, but they trust him enough to let him deal with his situation himself.
"Well I don't like your tone, not at one bit. I'm your father young man." Gumball wanted to say "since when?" but refrained from saying it. He sighed knowing that he should back out from this. He didn't want to cause chaos in the family.
"I'm sorry." Gumball could see the triumph smile on his father's face, he wasn't if he was antagonizing him or not. Richard turned his attention to his beautiful wife, he noticed that he tied her hair beautifully done and was wearing clothes that clung to her curves perfectly. How long has it been since he got to see what's underneath it? Sensing his father was undressing his mother with those lecherous eyes, Darwin being the protective son cleared his throat with a forced smile on his face. Something was definitely wrong with with him, he has been acting too strangely. While he is fine with husbands looking at their wives in a lustful manner, there is usually the element of love in it too.
Being experience enough in a relationship, he saw none in his father's eyes.
"I have to skype with Rachael tonight so..." Richard narrowed his eyes and spoke in a hostile tone.
"She can wait Darwin, besides are you too young to have girlfriend?" Darwin resisted the urge to punch Richard right in the face, since when did he gets to decide on whether he should date or not? Haven't they established that he was allowed to date long ago?
"Richard there's nothing wrong with Darwin dating, you allowed Gumball to date Penny. So why not Darwin?" Nicole was aware of Darwin's foul mood, she was honestly pissed of a Richard's tone and sudden change of personality. As if he wants to become the father of the family so suddenly.
"Yeah but look what it resulted! Nothing but a waste of time." Gumball slammed the table and glared at Richard with his ruby red eyes that screamed dangerous. He had enough of this asshole and glared harder with his arms crossed.
"She is NOT a waste of time. Even if she is my ex now, I appreciate it if you treat her with respect. Nothing we ever did was a waste of time, we both learned from our experienced and had gotten wiser." Anais gently tugged Gumball's hand, begging him to calm down. He turned towards her and immediately seized his hostile intentions, he mouth an apology to her and sat back down on the dining table while ruffling Anais's hair.
"Richard what has gotten into you?" Nicole's voice was deadly, Richard knew that. He chose his words carefully as he leaned back to his chair, exposing his stomach to the family.
"Just doing my job Nicole." Nicole frowned, he lost that opportunity a long time ago. Suddenly a thought struck her and she knew what she needed to do.
"What job?" She played innocent and dumb, her voice was surprising innocent and cute. It was the voice that got Gumball aroused as she often used to tease the hell out of him during their heated moments.
"A-As a father and a husband." No doubt it had the same effect on Richard too, Nicole for some reason got disgusted by the way he was leering at her. She played carefully and leaned onto her chair while crossing her arms.
"Really? How about getting a job then?" Richard snapped out of his stupor and cleared his throat. You could tell he was nervous and was avoiding the topic as best as he could.
"Well uh, I always cause trouble in a job. So I would get fired anyway right? I don't think getting a job is right for me." He faked his sad and defeated voice and the family could easily see right through it, especially Nicole. She looked at Gumball could tell he was in the verge of exploding his anger out, she didn't blame him as Richard was completely different from his usual. Sinister and arrogant.
"That's true, you are more trouble than you are worth father." Gumball spoke with a small smile on his face, it was a very unnerving smile that you don't want to mess with. Richard growled but agreed to it, knowing that if he denies it would be an opposite of what he said earlier. Darwin held back his "sick burn!" shout, he would tell Gumball that after this. He frowned slightly at his father's demeanour, what the hell is going on? Why is he like this? Is he always like this or did something happened?
'Maybe he is not himself, maybe he is under an influence or something.' Darwin sincerely hope that it was true, he didn't want to fathom that this is Richard's true nature. Everyone has a dark side after all.
"It's uh getting late." Anais who was quietly finished her meal finally spoke in a meek tone, Gumball turned to her and could tell that she is scared by her father's change of personality. He nodded and stood up, tugging her hand softly.
"Where are you going Gumball?" Gumball who was already half way up the stairs turn to Richard who gave the authoritative look to him that he lost long ago. Anais who was afraid to turn to Richard, got closer to Gumball and held his hand tighter.
"Tucking Anais to bed." Gumball paid no mind to Richard and continue to held Anais hand upstairs. With that silence fell onto the rest of the Wattersons as Darwin and Nicole felt really uncomfortable with Richard.
"I-I'm going upstairs too." Darwin didn't want to leave his mother alone but a part of him wants to talk to Gumball about it ASAP. He looked at his mother who nodded at him with a smile, leaving her and the man she is married to.
"Well the kids are asleep Nicole." Richard stood up and went to her side, on instinct she flinch from his touch and stood up, keeping a good distance from him.
"I will go see the kids, in the mean time can you be a dear and help clean up the table?" Nicole was an amazing actress, Richard nodded with reluctance. Seeing him in work, Nicole swiftly walked up to Anais room. She knocked on the locked door and was opened by Darwin who sighed in relief upon seeing her.
"Come in mom." Nicole saw Anais under her blanket with her two brothers by her side, honestly it was adorable to see the two looking after their sister like that.
"M-Mom what's happening with dad?" Anais tried her best to calm down, she still couldn't wrap her head around this. Nicole sighed and settled her chin on top of Gumball's shoulder, hugging his arm close to her like a pillow.
"I don't know Anais, I really don't know." She turned to Gumball who opted to remain silent, he was holding Anais's hand and was staring at Darwin who is sitting by the end of the bed with his arms crossed.
"It's like he has changed." Gumball didn't want to jump into conclusions, but it was something similar to Zach and him. Did his father alter ego finally revealed himself?
"Richard was never like this... not in a long while." Nicole muttered, the children blinked and turned to her.
"What do you mean mom?" Darwin asked first, he instinctively sat closer to Gumball and placed his arms on his brother's other shoulder.
"Well it was just a memory that resurfaced but when I first met your father, he was a sweet and light hearted man. He was a gentleman and I felt happy being with him. But there were times, where well, because of my tomboyish nature and my prettiness, a lot of guys came to ask me out."
"Not surprising." Gumball added, Nicole slapped his arm lightly with a smile before continuing.
"A lot of guys asked me out and Richard knew about it, he came to me all sad and depressed. Telling me that I was better without him, I was so heartbroken and sympathetic that I gave him a chance and well, our relationship happened." Gumball narrowed his eyes, it seems like his father played the pity card just to get with Nicole. Then again, he is pretty pathetic in all honestly.
"Hmm you are saying dad purposely acted all pitiful just to be with you?" Nicole didn't want to believe it, but she nodded. Anais shook her head, it didn't make any sense. Her mother was an incredible woman in terms of her martial arts and her beauty. Why would he have ignored someone as amazing as her throughout the years?
"Why did he ignored your needs then mom? Why did he kept the relationship with you stale?" Nicole frowned, not knowing how to answer Anais's questions. Honestly, she felt like she was used by Richard just to fulfill his desires.
"I don't know honey." A loud knock on the door caused everyone to jolt up immediately. Gumball being the first one to recover, stood up and went to the door. He felt Anais holding his hand tightly, almost begging him not go confront what lies behind the door. He shot her a soft smile and in an instant she let go of his hand. He wore his stoic expression and opened the door, revealing a sweating Richard with his clothes all crumpled.
"I am just checking in." Gumball nodded as he opened the door wider, allowing Richard's large figure to come in. Gumball eyed Richard like a hawk, almost as if he was ready to pounce on him if he were to do something he deemed dangerous and threatening to the family.
"Nicole dear, I think it's for us to sleep." Nicole knew what he meant, he wanted to sleep with her. She was very displeased with the idea, the only person she wants to sleep with is with Gumball and no one else. But now she couldn't exactly say it out loud can she?
"Oh? I thought you want to take the couch as always?" Gumball was quick to answer, he eyed Richard with his arms crossed. A day without sleeping next to his mother is a no can do for him now. He eyed his father, waiting for his response.
"I grew tired of the couch, besides I think your mother misses me." If Gumball and Nicole could vomit, they would have done so. Nicole especially as she felt her stomach churned, did she miss him? No, not anymore and right now she wished that he could get away from her. Gumball on the other hand, laughed on the inside at how wrong his father was. He was cursing every vulgar word he know inside his mind, not liking his situation one bit. If his father wasn't so much of an douche bag and prick earlier maybe, just MAYBE he would let him do it with his mother. Provided she accepts it of course.
"Really? I missed you?" Nicole spoke dryly, she wasn't afraid to go berserk on him. Maybe to him, that sounded like a joke.
"Of course! I mean, you have been ignoring me lately." Gumball twitched his eye, ignoring you?! You're then asshole who ignored her after all these years! And now you think you can swept her off your feet again just by showing her the tiniest of affection!? He must be delusional! Just as Gumball was about to say something horribly rude to him, Nicole beat him to it.
"Ignoring you? My dear Richard, it seems that we need to talk in private." She spoke sternly with her hands on her hips, god did she looked hot to Gumball. She kissed Anais on her forehead and ruffled Darwin's and Gumball's hair as good night, she would have given Gumball a deep passionate kiss but with Richard in the room she settled for that. She walked towards the door and waited for Richard to follow her.
"Yes my dear." Gumball was chanting "don't get any ideas" in his mind as he glare at his father's form. Soon enough the two left the room for their own and Gumball let out a curse word silently.
"Gumball you okay dude?" Gumball slumped his shoulders as he sat down next to Anais, he held the covers close to her and shook his head.
"No not okay, he thinks he could just come right in and steal mom away from me." Darwin couldn't help but to smile at the irony, then again Gumball is both of fighter and a lover. He knew that the relationship he shared with Nicole was deep. Far deeper than what Nicole and Richard had, so he knew that his mother would be immune to his charms.
"Gumball, what if mom tells dad about your relationship with her?" Anais spoke softly, Gumball closed his eyes briefly and opened them. He gave out a sigh and rubbed his shoulders with one hand.
"If it comes to that then so be it, mom always had a habit for spilling secrets when she is angry." Darwin frowned and held Daisy the Donkey tighter to him, he ran a hand through his bright orange hair as he stared at Daisy.
"What happens then?"
"I don't know, either that he would come in kill me and mom kills him before that happens or he would tell the entire Elmore state." Gumball spoke wryly, knowing that his father won't do the former but the latter.
"W-What do we do then?" Darwin was panicking, even didn't want the family to turn upside down because of this.
"What do we do? We wait and see, if he does know about mom and I then I will talk to him and try to convince him to stay as family. If not then I guess, I will be sent to psychiatric therapy." His siblings slapped his arms, not liking this one bit.
"B-But you guys aren't hurting anybody!" Darwin spoke frantically, he was losing his mojo in this.
"Ouch Darwin, didn't know that you thought of dad as a nobody." Anais sarcasm brought a smile to Gumball's face.
"I just hope that dad won't force mom to love him and mom accepts it just for my sake, hopefully he won't blackmail her into loving him. If he does, I might as well do the unthinkable." Gumball spoke with his arms crossed, if Richard dares to force Nicole into something she won't want, you bet that Gumball would do anything in his power to prevent that. It's either Richard tells the world of their relationship or he blackmails Nicole into loving him while keeping it a secret and prevent Gumball from going through horrible therapy and ruined image in school.
"Gumball..." Anais and Darwin spoke softly, not liking that their brother would go through such lengths for their mother.
"I don't think dad would that, I'm sure he just misses mom!" Gumball sighed, should he give the man a fair chance? I mean he is her husband, but it's entirely up to Nicole how she sees fit. If she accepts his love again then what happens to him? Gumball was positive that his mother won't want to be with Richard again, if anything she doesn't even want to be close to him after seeing his true colors.
"Gumball?" Gumball turned and saw his mother smiling at him, she let down her ponytail as he blue hair cascaded down her back beautifully.
"Mom! How did it go? What happened?" Gumball held Nicole's arms, she giggled when she saw how worried he was.
"It's fine, your father and I had a talk and he told me that he wanted to be with me again. He said he knows that he isn't the best husband in the world and wants to make it up to me for lost time." Gumball bit his lower lip and stared at her anxiously.
"So what did you say?" Nicole sat on the bed as her children listened to her intently.
"I told him that no. Our relationship was over and I just vented out my frustration, loneliness and anger on him. He felt guilty at first but then said he promised that he won't do it again. I wasn't taking any chances and called it off." On one hand he felt happy that Nicole did that, on the other he couldn't help but to feel bad for the man.
"He was crying, whining and bitching about every thing. Saying that "you never loved me if you don't want to give me a second chance". I didn't bother with that because he was trying to pull a fast one on me." Nicole rolled her eyes remember how pathetic he looked.
"But didn't he loved you mom, like really love you?" Anais huddled to Darwin as he wrapped his arms around her.
"He did he said, but I asked him what changed and he just said that he wasn't thinking straight and he promised to look for a job just to be with me. I asked him what is the reason why he married me then? He just remained silent and then I just didn't bothered with him. I think he just wants to get in my pants at that time and I was blinded by how sweet he was to me." The children stared at her, was their father that shallow of a person?
"But if he married you for you body like the piece of crap he is, then why he abandoned you. Why did he not shower you with love and-" Darwin shouted angrily, disgusted that his father would do that to his mother.
"-Sex? I don't know maybe it's because he gets exhausted easily. But honestly, he won't last long and he was boring in bed. Unlike your brother." Nicole grinned when Gumball coughed with his face flushed as he felt his mother touching his thighs.
"MOM!" Darwin and Anais were mortified, okay they definitely didn't need to hear that! They calmed themselves and Gumball was just covering his face with his hands, ignoring the rising arousal from his memories of them sharing their love together.
"Why the sudden change of attitude then?" Darwin had just this one final question, it was hard to believe this. Everything seemed so forced and weird. Was he father really like that? I mean back then his father wasn't exactly the best father but he wasn't exactly someone you can hate. Thinking about it now, he is actually a huge asshole. Letting your wife work while you stay at home do nothing and spend your's wife hard earned money on useless junk while not looking after the kids? Seems pretty messed up.
"He said that he noticed that I was slipping away from him, that I didn't even feed him food or talk to him anymore. He said he felt lonely and I called that a farce. Today he dressed up and acted like a father just to remind everyone in the house that he is your father and my husband. I told him that he lost his respect and figure a long time ago and the kids would never look up to you. I told him good luck on finding a woman like me in your life and he just cried because well no sane woman in this world want a husband like that." She won't exactly say she make a mistake by marrying Richard, if it weren't for him she won't have Gumball.
"So what now?" Gumball spoke softly, tired and exhausted.
"Divorce. I ask him for it and he pleaded no but I don't think I can afford someone like him Gumball, it would be awkward for us and I don't want his slimy hands around me and the family. I doubt we need a lawyer for custody since let's be honest, I'm the only bread earner of the family and he is incapable of taking care of you three. I don't want to do this, mainly because that I felt it's not fair to him but the marriage we had felt like a huge lie and I can't accept that and I will be honest. The selfish part of me wanted to get rid of him just so we could be together." Nicole felt ashamed but after what they been through, what is left to be ashamed of?
"Did you told him about us?" Gumball spoke more quietly, Nicole bit her lower lip and shook her head.
"No I didn't, I don't think he can accept that, it would break him... I think he did care for you three, I really do think he did love you guys. But after everything-"
"We know mom, it's okay. If he hurt you that much then called it off, besides you found someone else better right?" Gumball wrapped his arms around Nicole, he smiled brightly when he Anais said that.
"Kids?" The children turn to Richard who had a defeated look, his eyes were red and he definitely looked like he had been crying.
"I know I have not been a good father but please give me a second chance. I know I can be one." Darwin and Anais stared at each other and frowned, not knowing what to say. Gumball however stood up and walked up to him. Richard hid a smirk when Gumball walk up to him, thinking that he would help him out.
"To be my father, you first must be my mother's husband." Richard widened his eyes at that and stared at Gumball who held his fists tight.
"If you cannot make her happy, then you will never make her family happy." Gumball growled, he was itching to beat up the older man in front of him. Not caring if he is weaker than him. Richard frowned and glared at Gumball, this was his chance to convince the kids about it and he wasn't going to allow his son to be in the way of it.
"If I'm gone who would look after your mother?" Nicole deciding to let the kids to do the talking held Anais tight as she watch two children standing up for her.
"We will, we're family and we will always look after each other. If you cannot appreciate the wonderful person she is, then get out!" Darwin was at his wits end, he stood next to Gumball. Shoulder to shoulder with his arms crossed, his firm gaze was fixated on Richard.
"YOU all need a man in a family, you are all young and inexperienced. What would your friends say if they find out that your father left them?" Richard was pulling all the stops, Darwin and Gumball smirked in unison.
"They don't care and frankly so do we and as for the man of the family, we have two." Richard growled menacingly, just as he was about to retort Nicole stood up with her fists held tight.
"Richard don't you dare to lay a hand on my sons. Now get the hell out of here before I pummel you to the ground, you are not convincing them and you are not convincing me!" Richard narrowed his eyes as he walked back, his gaze lingered on Anais as he smiled at her.
"Anais? You won't want you daddy to leave right?" Anais turned to him and glared at him, she held Gumball's and Darwin's before she scowled at him.
"I already have two amazing brothers, I don't need a father like you." Richard bit his lower lip, so it seems that his plan failed. He nodded slowly as he laughed, it was an unsettling and sinister laugh that caused everyone to have shivers under their skin.
"Alright then, then let's see how long you can last without me! Nicole you would regret the day you did this to me, no one in this world wants some bitch who has anger management issues and couldn't give-" Gumball immediately knee kicked Richard in the groin and spat out his words like venom.
"Get out of here asshole!" In his anger, Gumball drove Richard out of the house. Richard could have swore he saw a faint glow of blue light in Gumball's eyes as he left the porch. Seeing Richard disappeared in the distance, Gumball slumped onto the door and closed his eyes.
'Was all the love he showed to us a lie, did he pretend to care for his family while in reality he wants nothing to do with them? Did he willingly get mom pregnant so she won't complain? What would have happened if I didn't have a wake a call? What if I wasn't mature and didn't help out mom? Would he still manipulate the kind hearted person she is? Would he still take her love for granted and only used her for his personal pleasure?' Gumball didn't want the answers to those questions, for he already knew all of it. He closed the door and turned around only to saw his lover hugging him and his siblings running to his side.
"His gone now." Darwin muttered, he shut his eyes and held onto Gumball who was still brimming in anger.
"I know. It's just hard to believe that he was that kind of person, I mean he helped me out with getting over Penny. We were really fooled huh." Anais nodded, she held Gumball's leg tight and leaned her cheek onto it.
"I'm sorry that you have to see that just now, I was just so angry that he called mom- you know." Nicole smiled and pecked Gumballs lips softly.
"Its over Gumball, it's all over now. Let's go back to sleep alright? We are all tired." They went upstairs and went into their respective rooms. Darwin having to feel the urge to tell Rachael what just happened, stopped himself. He leaned onto his chair, not knowing that how a simple dinner like tonight could turn into something so drastic and out of control. He tapped his fingers against the table, knowing full well that his brother and mother need their time alone and talk about it. Hell, everyone in the family need to talk about it, their emotions and how they feel. He closed his eyes softly, remembering the man he called father.
"Darwin?" He opened his eyes and turned around, his brother changed into his sleeping attire and looked like he had just showered.
"Yeah?" He saw him sat on his old bed, it's been ages since he saw him sleeping on it. Gumball lifted his legs over the bed and smiled when his scent still lingers on the bed.
"You okay?" Darwin shrugged, he could have felt worse.
"Yeah, I'm just worried about mom." Gumball smiled when he heard Darwin dropped the Mrs mom thing.
"Don't worry, I would make sure she cries on my shoulder and let her frustrations out." Gumball knew that his mother was crying on the inside, it all happened so fast that you would never believe it. Gumball would make sure he would be there, comforting her and loving her.
"She's been holding back, I will go check on Anais then." Darwin toyed with his phone and as kept gazed at his home screen of him and Rachael hugging together. Sooner or later, he would tell her.
"Thanks Darwin, you're a good brother." Gumball got off his bed, eyeing his brother who's mind drifted off to somewhere else.
"And you're a good son." Darwin whispered to himself as soon as Gumball left the room, he stood up and closed the lights as he made his way to his sister's room. Knowing full well that he is going to see her cry her eyes out.
Things really didn't seemed to change after everything that has happened. The children still went to school normally and Nicole had a stable employment. The whole school were shocked when the news of the divorce spread like wild fire, no one were too surprised but none of the felt like the Wattersons made a mistake.
"Hello Gumball." Gumball smiled when Principal Brown sat across him, sheets of paper were neatly stacked and the office seemed to be cleaned recently with a whiff of air freshener. He could only assumed that Ms Simian was here recently.
"Hello Principal Brown." He sat comfortably, knowing what the man wants to talk about.
"How are you feeling?"
"Okay, like nothing has changed." The principal tried to hold back his shock but failed to do so, he cleared his throat and clasped his hands together.
"And how is your family doing?" Principal Brown pour some tea onto the cup and handed to Gumball. His voice was nonchalant but Gumball could tell that he was careful with his words.
"They are doing fine. Darwin has been hanging out with Rachael more, I took Anais to a Daisy the donkey concert recently and mom has took some time off from work to spend more time with family." Gumball remained calm, taking a sip of the Earl Grey tea.
"Did you feel that the divorce was for the best?" The principal's tone was soft and careful, knowing that he would be triggering a landmine.
"Absolutely." Gumball's lips curled as he said that, the poor principal sighed and rubbed his temples. He did't get the full story of the divorce, no one did apparently. He didn't want to pressure Gumball into telling him so he stopped there.
"I see, his absence won't prove to be too detrimental yes?"
"As I said principal Brown, it makes no difference and frankly he left with bitter terms with us." Brown raised his eyebrows and leaned back to his chair.
"Alright then, Gumball I know this isn't how you thought your life would be like and I want you to know that whatever that had happened, whatever that you have right now is because of the choices you made. Whether you regretted the choices you made or not, live with them." Gumball nodded, giving his attention to the man who seemed wise and experienced.
"Anyhow, I think that's enough for today. You should go home and spend time with your family." Gumball smiled happily and stood up, thanking Principal Brown for the tea. As he was about to leave the office, he heard Principal Brown speak.
"Gumball, you made the right choice when you followed your heart. It may be wrong in the eyes of society but after what you two have been through, you deserve each other. So rely on her as much as she rely on you." Gumball stopped as he widened his eyes, he turned around and saw the elderly man who smiled at him. He wordlessly smiled and thanked him, knowing full well what he meant by those words.
As Gumball made his way home, he was greeted with a kiss on the lips and a warm hug by Nicole who seemed to be waiting for his return from school.
"Okay, okay let me shower first!" Gumball laughed as he gently pry Nicole of his chest who pouted cutely at him, her stunning figure was definitely a sight.
"Why wait?" She placed her finger on his lips and whispered seductively, wordlessly she held his hand as they make their way towards the showers in their bedroom with bright and genuine smiles on their faces.
Yes, yes I know. I know I end it the story right here. I'm sorry if you are looking for longer chapters but I kinda have to stop the story here. I'm burning myself out as of late and boy this chapter took me 4 hours to complete. Anyway, thank you for everyone who had read the story, I hope you enjoyed it plenty as I know I made some mistakes in the past chapters. As always, love yourself and do what you love.