Chapter 10
Ivanov had gotten picked up by his mom, and now it was just Bubbles and the professor in their house. "It was fun playing with Ivanov today, huh?". The Professor said, getting some Ramen soup out. "It was". Bubbles said. "But, why does Ivanov cry sometimes?". "Is it because he's sad?". Bubbles asked. "Well, sweetie, Ivanov sometimes has flashbacks, because he went through a traumatic time". The Professor said, gently. "Oh". Bubbles said. "Well, Ivanov is really nice". "He is, sweetie". The Professor said, kindly. "Do you like the grief group so far?". "I do". Bubbles said. "It's nice hearing everyone's stories". "Yes, well, it is a safe space for everyone to express themselves". The professor said.
There was an eerie silence as the Professor's phone rang. The Professor picked it up, answering. There was a "hello" or two in there, followed by a "yes, I see", then a nod, a silent nod, as a bit of silence followed. There was nothing else. The Professor was kind, understanding, and held a tinge of emotion behind, as he hung up the phone. He sighed, as Bubbles looked up at him. "Sweetie, this is very hard for me to say, but, Ivanov's in the hospital". The Professor said, kindly. "He had a heart murmur with a minor clot associated with his stab injury". "Oh, no". Bubbles said, sadly. "Is he ok?". "He is, as of now, but they're going to run some tests on him". The Professor said, gently. "Would you like to go see him?". "See if he's ok?".
"Yes". Bubbles said. "I can protect him". "That would be good, sweetie". The Professor said. Bubbles went in her room, getting the stuffed, white tiger. "This is for Ivanov to feel better". She said. "Very good, sweetie". The Professor said, gently. "Let's change Bee Bee before we go". "Ok". Bubbles said. He took Bubbles to the other room, changing her diaper. "I'm sad". Bubbles said. "Why are you sad, honey?". The Professor asked, kindly. "Is Ivanov gonna be ok?". Bubbles asked. "Well, Sweetie, he's going through something, and the doctors are trying their best to make him feel better". The Professor said, gently. "I don't know what will happen, but, I'm sure things will work themselves out".
The Professor pulled Bubbles new diaper up. "There, sweetie, all better". The Professor said. "Ok". Bubbles said. "Let's go see our friend, Ivanov". Bubbles nodded, as she and The Professor locked up, and went out to the car. It was dark out now, and the sky was black. The inside of the car glowed, as they drove down the street. Bubbles sat in the back, trying to stay awake after her busy day. The Professor lit a cigarette in the bottom cigarette option in his Maserati.
"Sweetie, I know you're worried about Ivanov". The Professor said, gently. "But, the doctors are doing everything they can to help him". "Why does Ivanov have a heart problem?". Bubbles asked. "Well sweetie, Ivanov went through a very rough time when he was a baby, and has some health differences". The Professor said, gently. "What kind of stuff happened when he was little?". Bubbles asked. "Well, I did hear his story in grief group, and his birth family passed on when he was younger, he spent a rough time in the orphanage, and he's been through some hard times, so he has some differences regarding his health". The Professor said, gently.
"He'll be ok". "I hope". Bubbles said.
They drove to the downtown Children's hospital, parking in the parking garage, then walking up to the 6th floor where children's cardiac was. Bubbles was worried, but knew somehow, some way, Ivanov would be ok. He had to be. It wouldn't be right if he wasn't.
Bubbles, and The Professor came into the room, seeing Ivanov's adoptive parents sitting beside him, his mom stroking his face.
"Shh, it's ok, baby". Amy said, gently. "It's ok". Ivanov made sucking noises, staring at his hands. "I love you". Amy sang, softly. "I love you". Ivanov let out a soft cry, as a wet spot was seen near the corner of his eye. He was in pain from his heart. He was in bed, wearing a gown. "Shh, it's ok, my baby". Amy said, gently. "I love you". She stroked Ivanov's face. "Buddy, look who's here". His dad said, gently. Ivanov's dad, Marcus, was gentle. He was kind, easygoing, and usually spoiled Ivanov. Ivanov sucked on the back of his hand. "Hey, glad you came". Marcus said, shaking the Professor's hand. "Hello". The Professor said. "Hey". Amy said, gently. "How is he?". The Professor asked, softly. "He's still in pain". Amy said, softly, although with a tinge of concern.
"We checked his heart rate, and found out he was beating abnormally". Amy said. "He started crying, and screaming, he was in pain". "We got him to the hospital, and he was pretty bad, his beat was really off". "They're going to run some tests, and he might have to have surgery to put together the wound, he might have a scar, though". "Are his lipid levels high?". The Professor asked.
"His levels are normal, although his murmur did get worse". Marcus said. "That's too bad". The Professor said, gently. "He did very good, today". Amy said, gently. "He took his medicine, he let them put the I.V in". "He's doing well". Ivanov began crying, as he laid. "Shh, it's ok, baby". "It's ok". Amy comforted. "Look who's here, it's our friend, Bubbles, and her dad". Amy stroked Ivanov's head. "Hey, bestie". The Professor said, gently, holding Ivanov's hand. "Hi". "How are you?". "You look great". Ivanov put his hand up, as a tear came down his cheek. "I know it's scary, but you're doing great". The Professor said, kindly. "You're being very brave". "I'm very proud of you, bud". "Eeee!". Ivanov began crying again, loudly. Tears came down his cheek. He was in pain. "It's ok, bud". The Professor comforted. "You're doing above, and beyond". "You inspire me, each and every day". The Professor said, gently. "You've done so much for me, and your parents, you are truly the best". "You are my hero".
"He's my hero as well". Marcus said, bending down to kiss Ivanov. "Son". he said, gently. He sat by Ivanov, holding his hands. "It'll be good, we'll get some medicine". Ivanov began crying loudly. "It's ok, son". Marcus said, gently, stroking Ivanov's head.
"He's a bit scared". Amy said, bringing over some water for Ivanov. "They gave him a glucose shot earlier, and he cried". "It hasn't been a difficult process; the doctors have been very helpful, but it is difficult watching him in pain".
Bubbles went over to see Ivanov, giving him her white stuffed tiger. "That's very sweet". Marcus said, sitting down. "She usually is sweet". The Professor said. "She is the nicest of my three". "Oh, you have three daughters?". Amy asked. "I did at one point". The Professor said. "My other two passed away in an accident". "Oh, I'm sorry". Amy said, concerned. "Yes, they were good, my other two, but, we've been processing our grief in a constructive way". The Professor said. "Ivanov has been doing a great job processing grief, and hard feelings". Amy said. "He'll often say how he's feeling, and we'll talk, but he always lets us know what's going on if he has a problem".
"He is a very selfless, heroic, accomplished person". Marcus said. "When something happens, even if it's minor, he'll come in, and just protect us, or take over". "Mm, he gets that from protecting his family from the attack, and protecting his fellow brothers, and sisters when he was at the orphanage". Amy said. "We talked about that when he was over". The Professor said. "I find that being positive, yet being honest helps build his esteem". "He is very heroic". Amy said. "He's saved his family from an attack in Russia, he saved others at the orphanage, he's saved us a couple of times". "He is such an inspiration". "He is". Marcus said.
Ivanov drank his water, looking up at his parents. Some drool dripped down on his chin. "Buddy, it's time to swallow". Marcus said, gently. "Can you swallow for me?". Ivanov swallowed, sucking in the drool. "Good job, bud". Marcus said, stroking Ivanov's head. "So, he's from Russia?". The Professor asked.
"He is, originally". Amy said. "He was born in 1998 in Russia to his family in Moscow". "His family loved him very much, he had a brother, and a sister, I don't know much about his birth mother, although she did love him very much". "They were the target of a terrorist attack, when Palestinians, a radical group invaded their town, they raided businesses, they blew up homes, and the military got involved when the looting got out of hand".
"The military was very corrupt". Marcus said. "The mafia had control of everything, they probably had control of the military, so the military didn't do anything". "But, Ivanov's birth family was killed in the terrorist attack on their home late at night". "Ivanov tried saving his family, but, he didn't succeed". "He was almost killed in the attack, although he survived". "He lived on the streets for a while, until the police found him, and brought him to Ivaveszk orphanage". "We looked at the pictures before the fire, and it looked like an institution from the 1920's".
"It was dilapidated, there were no beds for the kids to sleep in, they had mush in a bottle for food". Marcus said. "Yes, and the orphanage director was a very evil man who believed in profit over care of children". Amy said. "Ivanov was beaten daily, deprived food and care, scratched, bruised, and almost killed a couple of times". Tears welled up in her eyes. "Luckily, the orphanage director was shot, over a dispute involving money". "But, the orphanage fell apart, and when the Peace Corps came, they gathered the kids, and brought them to the U.S". "the kids were brought to a Children's hospital, taught to eat, taught to walk, taught to say words, and express emotions". "These children were adopted, but Ivanov stayed behind". "We found Ivanov, went through the process, and adopted him, officially".
"The orphanage was terrible". "He would sit in his own feces, he would eat feces to survive, he would suffer torment, there was no hot water, it was terrible". Amy almost began to cry. She felt her throat hurting from anger, and sadness. "He is a hero with an amazing heart who protects; he deserved so much more than what he received". "Now he's laying on a hospital bed because he was hurt". She did cry. "He's so strong, however". "He's my hero, personally". "Everytime I'm near him, I feel safe, and I feel it's my job to protect him, just as he protected everyone in his early life". "He truly is my inspiration". Amy patted Ivanov's hand.
Ivanov drank his water. "He's my inspiration as well". Marcus said. "I've never been prouder of anyone". "He's my favorite person". "Mine as well". Amy said. Ivanov made sucking noises, lifting his hands in the air.
"He is very influential as well". The Professor said. "I've loved how selfless he is". "His kindness, he knows to share his toys, he knows to clean up after himself". "He's such a giving person". "He is". Amy said. "What I love is his honesty". "When he does something wrong, or when he's having trouble, he'll tell us right away". "He's very truthful, loving, has a strong sense of right, and wrong". "He's such a good boy". She stroked Ivanov's head.
"He's also very mature". Marcus said. "Now, he does have difficulty with problem solving, critical thinking, and reasoning, but he will ask for help, and does accept help". "He's very calm, quiet most of the time". "He will have tantrums at times, as a way of trying out new emotions, but he is very quiet, very calm, rarely screams, or yells". "He's very nice to have around". "I enjoy his company". "I do".
"Perhaps the maturity stems from the adverse experiences, had in the orphanage". The Professor said. "He might've had to grow up a bit earlier to nurture, and support himself". "He has had to be self reliant for quite some time". Amy said. "He's learned to trust others, express his emotions, and reciprocate affection". The Professor pursed his lips, a bit thoughtful, but understanding. "He still has episodes of depression, and PTSD?". "He does". Amy said. "He will cry, self soothe by rocking back and forth, and self harm, although he does seek comfort, and will hold onto us when having a flashback".
"I do know a deprivation counselor, and grief counselor that specializes in childhood trauma, and PTSD". The Professor said. "Her name is Muriel Bagge". "I could recommend him for Deprivation Counseling once a week". "That's nice". Amy said. "And she also sponsors the grief group?". "She does". The Professor said. "I know her, personally as well". "That would be great". Amy said. "Ivanov does have occupational therapy from 3:30 to 4:10 in the afternoon, then he has his speech therapy from 4:15 to 4:30". "During the day, he has school". "Muriel can do in-school therapy". The Professor said. "She mainly works with emotionally disturbed children in the special education setting". "We'll set something up with her". Amy said.
While the adults were talking, Bubbles stood by Ivanov, holding his hand. Ivanov looked up, as a cry came from him. A wet spot was seen near the corner of his eye. "It's ok". Bubbles said, giving him a hug. "Eeee!". Ivanov began crying, screaming a little bit as he sat up. The wet spot was getting wetter. He was in pain because of his heart. "Mr. Tiger will protect you". Bubbles said, giving Ivanov her stuffed tiger. "Eee!". Ivanov cried. Bubbles gave him a hug. He calmed down a little bit, although his wet spot was still there. He sniffled.
"That is very sweet, you comforting him like that". The Professor said, gently. "I know he's having a bit of a difficult time right now". "Will Ivanov be ok?". Bubbles asked. "He's having heart surgery in the morning". Amy said, gently. "He'll need to take a little rest before he goes in tomorrow". "Can I stay tonight and help Ivanov?". Bubbles asked. "I would love to say yes, sweetie, I would, but, he does need his rest before he goes in in the morning". Amy said, gently. "We're only staying overnight because we're his parents". "Ok". Bubbles said. Amy stroked Ivanov's face as he began crying. Ivanov felt a stinging in his heart, a deep pain in his chest. "I love you". Amy sang gently. "I love you". Ivanov sniffled as he calmed down. Amy continued stroking Ivanov's face. "Da da da da". Ivanov babbled, reaching for his dad. "Hey buddy". Marcus said, gently, brushing Ivanov's hands. "It'll be ok". "Let's slow down a little bit".
"Let's get some more almond milk". Marcus said, pouring Ivanov a cup. Ivanov drank his almond milk, still feeling as if he was in pain. The nurse came in with Ivanov's heart medicine, and pain medicine. "Look who's here, bud". Amy said, gently, stroking Ivanov's head. "Hi, bud". The nurse said, in a friendly manner. "How are you?". Ivanov waved hi. "Guess what, buddy?". "It's time to take heart medicine". The nurse said, kindly. "Heart". Ivanov said, looking up at the nurse. It was one of the few words he knew. "That's right, sir". "It's for your heart". The nurse said, gently. Ivanov's medicines were in liquid form because he was still working on swallowing.
"Are you ready?". The nurse asked. "Let's get medicine". She helped Ivanov swallow his heart medicine. Ivanov noised. "I know it doesn't taste good, huh?". The nurse said. "We have to take medicine". Ivanov began gagging. "It's ok". The nurse said, gently. "Buddy, you did so good". Amy said, smiling. "I am so proud of you". "Good job". She kissed Ivanov's forehead. Ivanov began crying again. "It's ok, buddy". Amy said, gently. "Shh". "shh". "You're being so brave, and mature". "I am so proud of you". "You've inspired all of us". "We love you so much".
"That's true". The Professor said. "You're my best friend because of it". Ivanov calmed down, babbling a little bit. Amy stroked his forehead, kissing him. Marcus brushed his arm. Ivanov sat, relaxing, saying some of the few words he knew. "Mama". Ivanov said. "Yes, sweetie". Amy said, gently. "It's ok". "Shh, it's ok". She brushed Ivanov's face.
"I have to go now". Bubbles said to Ivanov. "My diaper is full".
"Sweetheart". The Professor said to Bubbles. "Let's leave them to their family time". "I think it's time for us to go". "Ok". Bubbles said. "Thank you for visiting". Amy said, kindly. "I know he really needs his time right now". "We're doing all we can". "It's the least we could do". The Professor said. "I'll come back tomorrow, and run an endoscopy on him, if you need". "I have the doctor's number". "I'll call you, and tell you where we're at". Marcus said. "Alright then". The Professor said.
"Goodbye Ivanov". Bubbles said, brushing his hand. Ivanov laid, playing with his mom's hands. "Ivanov, can you say goodbye?". Amy said, gently. "Bye". ivanov said. "Goodbye". Amy said. "Goodbye, bestie". The Professor said, gently, ruffling Ivanov's hair. "I'll see you tomorrow". Ivanov still played. His eyes were falling, and he was falling asleep.
Amy still stroked Ivanov's head, kissing his face, as she brushed. "I love you". "I love you". She sang. Ivanov laid, calmly looking up at his mom. "I love you". Amy sang, softly. "My inspiration". "My hero". She kissed Ivanov's cheek. "He's my hero, as well". Marcus said, gently. "He saved us, just as he's saved his birth family". "He is a saint". "He truly is". Amy said, gently.
"He helps us, now it's our time to help him". The parents stroked Ivanov's forehead, as his eyes closed. "I love you, baby boy". Amy said, gently. "My hero". Ivanov fell asleep. Ivanov truly was a hero. He saved his birth family, or tried to save his birth family from terrorists, and often helped his adoptive parents with things. Ivanov loved his adoptive parents, and felt truly safe with them. He did miss his birth parents, and often was depressed. He felt it was his fault he was abused, and he wasn't enough. He felt he wasn't strong enough, smart enough. He was ashamed he didn't save his birth family. He felt he wasn't worth anything. He had bouts of sadness, depression, and would cry, or sit silently, not making any noise. Tears would come down his cheek. This was before he was put on Cannabis.
He felt completely self reliant. This was because he hadn't been nurtured, held, touched, or loved after his birth family passed away. He was at a higher risk for mental illness.
Bubbles, and the Professor made their way out of the hospital room, going back down to their car. Only the light of streetlights, the hospital, and various other places guided their way. The Professor lit another cigarette, blowing smoke out of the window. "I hope Ivanov's ok". Bubbles said, drinking her milk from her milk container. "Well, sweetie, the doctors are doing everything they can to help Ivanov". The Professor said, gently. "He's going to feel better soon". "I hope". Bubbles said.
They drove home in the darkness, Bubbles eating cold cereal, Fruit Loops for dinner.
She went to bed, feeling a new kind of sadness, and despair for her friend, for Ivanov.
The darkness crept in around Bubbles, only slinking behind her room, as a bit of light from the back hallway came in. Bubbles looked at the empty spots in her bed, her sisters used to lay. There was Buttercup's spot, there was Blossom's. Now and again, she could see the shadow where Blossom's giant Lion King, stuffed Simba used to be. That was in the closet. Bubbles got off of her bed, getting the giant Simba, putting it beside her bed. She sighed a long sigh, thinking of her sisters. She laid down to sleep.
"You ####in dumbass!". "You $$$er!". "A mule could do better than you!". "Him Haw!".
There was the sound of screaming, the sound of punching, the sound of pleading.
"People like you'd be better off dead!".
The sound of pleading, and laughter was heard. Bubbles stirred awake, looking outside to see what it was. "Oh, no!". She said, concerned. She flew out to see what it was.
"Please, please, let me go!". "Aughhh!". "Aughh!". A man lay on the ground, pleading for help, as some smart looking boys, geeky looking boys kicked him, punched him, and shoved a knife in his lower abdomen. They weren't the Gangreen Gang, they were other boys. Bubbles looked with concern. "What are you doing?". Bubbles asked, innocently, absentmindedly. "This lil mule didn't do what we trained him, so we tried to kill him!". One of the boys laughed.
The young man had tears in his eyes, and pleaded with Bubbles to help him. "What is your name?". Bubbles asked, helping the man up. The man had a toy truck in his left hand, and in a broken speech pattern, and cadence said, "I can't get up". "It's ok". Bubbles said. "We're going to get you to the hospital". She helped the man up, going toward the hospital, but not before delivering a swift kick to the boys' crotches. The boys ran away.
The man had a knife in his side, as his side was bruised. "Do you know those boys?". Bubbles asked. "They came up, and stabbed me". The man said in a broken speech pattern, and cadence. "I don't know them". "Oh, well, it's ok". Bubbles said.
They got to the hospital, and the man checked in. As it turned out, he was an intellectually disabled, low functioning man from a group home who had been beaten by a group of boys targeting the group home.
Bubbles walked back, feeling dejected. How could someone target another person who was different? How could people be so cruel? Bubbles felt a feeling of deep sadness rise above in her heart. She had known being teased from her sisters, but, she never expected cruelty to arise from someone targeting someone else, just because they were different.
Bubbles sat, not knowing what to do from what she just saw. How could someone, anyone, be so cruel? How was that possible? It was a shame to see what the world had gone to. Now, it was just all a matter of time. Bubbles could hardly sleep, although she did. She slept. Thinking tomorrow would be better in some ways.
A few days had passed, and it was time for grief group to begin again. Bubbles lay in her bed, her eyes crusted by the amount of tears she had cried. "Sweetie". The Professor said, stroking Bubbles head. Bubbles looked up at him, sniffling. "It's time to wake up, ok?". "Take as much time as you need". Bubbles pulled the covers over her, again, as she went under the blanket. She was so small, no one could barely see her under there.
"Sweetie". The Professor said, gently. Bubbles looked up at him. "What would you like for breakfast?". "We have Cheerios, we have Frosted Mini Wheats, I have some eggs I could make". The Professor said, kindly. "Can I have Frosted Mini Wheats?". Bubbles asked. "Sure, sweetie". The Professor said, gently. Bubbles yawned, getting out of bed. She walked over to her, and her sisters' bathroom, brushing her teeth, and getting ready. She was about to put her clothes on. "Sweetie". The Professor said, kindly. "Why don't you wear your pajamas today?". "You don't have to get dressed, if you don't want to". "Ok". Bubbles said, sniffling. "We're going on a field trip to Manchuesen". The Professor said, gently. "Where's Manchuesen?". Bubbles asked. "It's just outside of Townsville, they have restaurants, a quiet sanctuary, a pool, meditation, a playground, they have different helpers to help with sadness". The Professor said. "It's pajama day, so everyone will wear theirs as well". "Ok". Bubbles said.
The Professor stroked Bubbles head, feeding her breakfast. Bubbles didn't want to tell the Professor what she had seen the night before. She felt it was damaging enough to actually see it. Now, she had to tell someone. She didn't have her sisters to help her. She felt she was completely on her own.
Bubbles finished her breakfast, getting in the car, going to her grief group. It felt weird without her sisters, it felt painful knowing they were gone.
She got to the church, where other kids were sitting in the group room. There were fewer than before. Robbie was still there, Ivanov came in with his mom, wearing his pajamas, and a medical bracelet. It signified he had heart surgery. He sat down, looking exhausted. He had just had heart surgery. Sailor sat, with her pajamas on, sniffling, sobbing.
A volunteer, Bunny Bravo, rubbed her back. Sailor cried loudly, as Bunny consoled her. "You'll be ok, sweetheart". Bunny said, gently. "No". Sailor said, shaking her head. "It's ok, baby girl". Bunny said, kindly.
The Mayor and Ms. Bellum came in. They were talking, sharing coffee. They were pretty close to one another from what Bubbles saw.
Ivanov closed his eyes, sleeping on his mom's lap. "Hi". Bubbles said to Amy. "hi, sweetie". Amy said, kindly. "Ivanov's sleeping". Bubbles said, looking down at Ivanov. "He is". Amy said, gently. "He had his heart surgery the other day". "He's very tired". "Oh". Bubbles said. "We'll let him sleep for a little bit, then he has to wake up for our field trip today". Amy said, sroking Ivanov's head. "Did you have breakfast yet, sweetie?". Amy asked. "I did". Bubbles said. "Ok, we have to get breakfast for Ivy, huh?". Amy said, kindly, stroking Ivanov's head.
Robbie came over to Sailor who still sobbed. "Are you ok?". Robbie asked, hugging Sailor. Sailor's face was red, as tears streamed down her cheek. "No". Sailor sobbed. "She just lost her grandpa". Bunny said, kindly, although with some emotion. "She's having a little bit of a tough day, today". "But it will be alright". "Edd". Sailor said with tears in her eyes. She sobbed as she said this. "Edd will be here, shortly". Bunny said, gently. Sailor sobbed, crying loudly.
Robbie still continued to hug her, as she cried, sniffling. "It's ok". Robbie said. "Thank you". Sailor said, sniffling, as her sobbing became worse. "I'm sorry to hear about your grandpa". Bunny said, gently. "It's fine". Sailor sobbed.
Edd came in, putting out his cigarette he had. Sailor continued crying. "Sweetie". Edd said, gently. Sailor looked up at him. She had the look aligned with trauma in her eyes. "I know it's been difficult". "I know". Edd said, kindly. "I saw him die". Sailor sobbed. Her body shook with fear as she sat, sobbing. "Sweetie, everything will be ok". Edd assured, gently. Sailor sniffled, as tears ran down her cheek. "Would you like some breakfast?". Edd asked, kindly. Sailor still cried.
"It'll be ok, sweetie". Edd said, gently. "Let's get some breakfast, and then we'll go on our field trip". He rubbed Sailor's back, kindly. "He's dead". Sailor said, sniffling. "Sweetie". Edd said, gently, rubbing Sailor's back. "I know it's been a difficult couple of days". He talked with her to calm her down. "I know you haven't gotten much sleep, you haven't eaten too much, it's been hard". "We'll get it worked out, I promise". He said, kindly.
"I saw someone trying to kill a man with a disability". Sailor sobbed. "I saw that when I came in". "They were beating him, and stabbing him so he couldn't breathe, and they called him names". "That's terrible". Edd said, gently. "People are cruel". "I...I...I I'm a screw up". Sailor sobbed. "I'm going to get killed". "I'm going to get hurt".
Ms. Bellum came over, rubbing Sailor's back, as well. "Sailor". Ms. Bellum said, gently. "I know it's been difficult, these past couple of days". "Would you like to talk about it over some breakfast?". "We have yogurt, we have eggs, there's some creme brulee pudding". "Let us be your sounding board". Sailor looked at Edd, as he assured. "Let's talk to her". Edd assured.
Edd hugged Sailor, as she got up, getting some breakfast. She sat back down, eating her creme brulee. "My...my grandfather was in the hospital because he was shot". Sailor said. "There was violence against him, simply because he was standing there on his porch". "The lead covered his brain, and there was a virus eating away". "I just...I saw him". She sniffled, sobbing again. "He didn't make it".
"Sailor". Edd said, gently, wiping some creme brulee from her face. "You should never worry about who you are". "I'll be honest with you, you are strong". "You've done more for your grandfather than you will ever know". "I talked to your godmother, Cree today, she is very proud of the accomplished, strong, honest person you are". "You have helped your grandfather in so many ways".
"You are excellent". Edd said, kindly. "You've protected everyone, and have been a hero". "It's ok that grandpa passed away". "There are some things that are beyond our control, but, we tried our best". "I am so lucky to have you as someone I can rely on". "I love you very much, and will always be here to help you through it". Edd smiled. "I know". Sailor said, sniffling. "I am here with you". Edd said, gently.
His silk shirt rustled a little bit, as he smiled. "We'll get through it". He whispered. "As a family". Sailor nodded. There were bags under her eyes, as she looked up at Edd. She hadn't slept in days. "It must've been horrible". Edd said, gently. "Seeing death, going through trauma, surviving". "It's ok to feel scared". He brushed her face, wiping her chin. "It's ok to feel ashamed, angry, sad". "You're on this journey, we're on this journey together". "It'll be ok". "You are an amazing young woman that I admire, and love". "I'll be here beside you". Edd nuzzled Sailor. "Later we'll talk with Marie about being a godparent". "We're very honored to have you".
"Thank you". Sailor sobbed. Nearby, Ivanov slept, laying his head down on his mother's lap. "Ivy". Amy said, kindly. "Let's wake up". "Ok?". Ivanov stirred a little bit, opening his eyes, looking up at Amy. he rubbed his eyes. "Baby boy". Amy said, gently, stroking Ivanov's face. "I love you". "I love you". She sang softly. Ivanov stirred, lifting his fingers. "Let's wake up". "Let's wake up". "Let's wake up, let's wake up". She sang, kindly. Ivanov opened his eyes, lifting up his hands. "A ba". He babbled. "Buddy". Amy smiled. "Do you want some breakfast?". Ivanov didn't respond. "Ivy". Amy said, gently, tickling his face. "Baby boy". "Breakfast?". She said, again. "Yes". Ivanov said. It was one of the few words he knew.
Amy kissed Ivanov's cheek, tickling his face. "We're going on a field trip today". "Yay!". Amy smiled, nuzzling Ivanov. Ivanov smiled, and laughed a little bit.
"Mommy has to go to work, but I'll see you later, ok?". Amy kissed Ivanov's cheek again. "Mama". Ivanov pointed. "I know, buddy". Amy said, gently. Amy ruffled Ivanov's hair. "Have a good day with Ms. Bellum". Amy said, kissing Ivanov's forehead. Ivanov sat up, looking around. "Hi, Ivanov". Sailor said, calming down a bit. Ivanov still made sucking noises, as he looked at his hands. The mayor came over, giving everyone bowls of vanilla ice cream. "Hello, my sunshines". He said, smiling. "This is for you". "I hope you like it, I just bought it last night". "Thank you". Sailor said, quietly. "Of course, dear". The mayor said, smiling. "So, how are things?". "They're not good". Sailor said, quietly. "Oh, sweetie". The Mayor said, gently. "I heard about your grandpa, my deepest sympathies".
"We were really close". Sailor said, sniffling. "I tried to do everything". "I tried making sure he was ok, I tried feeding him, I tried looking at his heart levels". "After a while, he didn't take in food". "Oh, sweetheart". The mayor said, gently. "That must've been rough". "But, now you can reward yourself for the kind of amazing job you did helping him". "I didn't help him". Sailor said, sniffling. "I failed". "Sweetheart, you didn't fail". The mayor said, gently. "You've succeeded in everything you did". "You may not know this, yet, but, you're my hero". "You've helped me become the person I've always wanted to be". He patted Sailor's hand. "Thank you". Sailor said.
"Of course, sweetie". The mayor said, kindly. He wiped Sailor's face from ice cream. "Remember to always believe in yourself". "I will". Sailor said, quietly.
The Professor brought over some yogurt with cheerios mixed in it for Ivanov. "Hey, bestie". The Professor said, gently. Ivanov looked tired, as his eyes began falling. "I know, buddy". "It's been a lot these past couple of days". The Professor said, kindly. "That was a big procedure, huh?". Ivanov yawned, putting his hands up. "I know, bud". The Professor ruffled Ivanov's hair. "Let's get some yogurt". The Professor said, in a kind, gentle tone. "Are you ready?". Ivanov sat up, as the Professor spoonfed him yogurt. "Good job, buddy". The Professor said, kindly. "I know it's been difficult, with the heart procedure you had".
After breakfast, the kids got ready for their field trip. The Professor helped Ivanov put his jacket on over his pajamas. "This is exciting". "A field trip". Edd smiled, as Sailor put on her jacket. "We haven't been to Manchusen before". Edd said, gently. "This will be a new experience for both of us". "I guess". Sailor said, sniffling from crying.
"It'll be fun, sweetie". Edd said, kindly. "We'll escape, and try something new, just the both of us". "Ok". Sailor said, quietly. Edd tickled Sailor's cheek. "I hear Manchusen has a new Mongolian grill, where you can pick your own ingredients". "We'll try that, you and I". Sailor sniffled, standing quietly where she was. She felt truly hurt by what happened to her grandfather. "Sweetie". Edd said, gently. "I know it's been hard". "Just remember how amazing you are, and how much we love you". "It's ok to be sad". "I'm here beside you through it". He blew Sailor a kiss. "I love you". He said, kindly. A tear came down Sailor's cheek.
"Here comes another one". He smiled, blowing her another kiss. "I got it". Sailor said, opening her hand. "Lovely". Edd said, kindly, nuzzling Sailor. He wiped her cheek. "Let's get on the bus". He said, gently. "Bus". Robbie said, pointing. "That's right, buddy". Edd said, kindly.
The kids got on their jackets, and followed Ms. Bellum and the Professor outside. One by one, they each got buckled in the van. Robbie and Rachel rode in the van with Ms. Bunny, and the Professor. The Professor buckled Rachel, and Robbie into their seats. "There, are you ok?". The Professor asked, kindly. He wiped Rachel's face. "Da da da da". Rachel babbled, lifting up her fingers. "I know sweetie". "It'll be a good day to take a trip". The Professor said, gently. "I had a truck". Robbie said, showing the Professor his toy truck. "I see, that's cool, buddy". The Professor said, kindly.
He got on the other side with Bunny. Edd offered Sailor a ride in his car. Ivanov and Bubbles rode with Ms. Bellum and the Mayor. Ivanov climbed into his seat, wearing his jacket, and full body pajamas. "Are you ok, buddy?". The Mayor asked, as he sat front with Ms. Bellum. "Yes". Ivanov said. "Here you go". Bubbles said, helping Ivanov into his seat. They got on the road, at last. Bubbles, and Ivanov sat, just looking straight ahead. They didn't pay mind to anything else. The Mayor and Ms. Bellum talked. From what Bubbles could see, it was couples talk. They were whispering to one another, and from what it looked like, flirting.
"I'm so glad to be doing this". Ms. Bellum said, in a calm, seduced, hushed voice. "I think they do need it". "I find doing this for them is inspired". The mayor said. "It is wonderful the council allowed my budget". "It is directed nicely". Ms. Bellum said, in a whisper. "Perhaps we should make it an allotted project to work with". "It would be fascinating". The mayor said. Their whispers then got a bit lower. "There is a lovely place in South Bend, where we could stay". Ms. Bellum whispered. "That would be lovely". The mayor whispered back, scandalously. A bit of deep was heard in his voice, even as he whispered. "I do have the points". "No one will know about our deal?". Ms. Bellum whispered back. "No one does". The Mayor whispered again. "I think we do deserve to have a bit of time to ourselves". "It would be nice". Some rustling was heard through the whispers. Mainly this was a suitcoat.
"To us". Ms. Bellum whispered, smiling. "To us". The Mayor whispered back. The Mayor put his hand over Ms. Bellum's. They leaned in, gazing at one another. Bubbles sat, in shock, and awe, looking up at the Mayor and Ms. Bellum. But, The Mayor had a wife. The Mayor was married to Rita. Why was he whispering, and gazing at Ms. Bellum? Why were they staying at a hotel together? Bubbles couldn't comprehend what was going on, but somehow, felt, deep down inside that the mayor was in love with Ms. Bellum.
Ivanov slept in the seat next to Bubbles. He was exhausted. "Sweetheart", Ms. Bellum said, gently. Bubbles looked up at her. "Are you alright?". "Would you like something to eat, or drink?". Ms. Bellum asked, kindly. "No thank you". Bubbles said, quietly. Ms. Bellum gently rubbed Ivanov's shoulder. "Ivanov, buddy". Ms. Bellum said, in a kind, gentle, soothing tone. "Are you hungry?". "Thirsty?". Ivanov opened his eyes looking up at Ms. Bellum. "Hungry?". Ms. Bellum signed. "No". Ivanov said. "Ok, sweetie". Ms. Bellum said, gently. She looked back at Ivanov as he sat, yawning. His eyes were falling again.
"I know it's been difficult these past couple of days". Ms. Bellum said, in a deep, feminine, alluring voice. "You've truly been a strong, capable, heroic young man who has inspired me". "I will always love how truly remarkable you are". "I remember how you saved your family, your friends in Russia". "You truly are an amazing, wonderful, kind person who inspires everyone you meet". "There is no one as special as you". She leaned back in her seat, speaking in a motherly, soft voice. "You make us, us". She said, gently. She smiled at Ivanov as he babbled. Drool dripped from his chin.
"I love you". Ms. Bellum said, kindly. She blew Ivanov a kiss. Ivanov made a sucking noise, sucking the drool in to swallow. His eyes began to fall again. "My hero". Ms. Bellum said, softly. Ivanov began sleeping. Ms. Bellum blew ivanov another kiss. Bubbles sat, looking up at Ms. Bellum. She truly felt sad knowing her sisters were no longer there. She felt better knowing she held friendship for Ivanov, and wanted to take care of him.
The rest of the car ride, Ms. Bellum, and the mayor whispered. Bubbles wondered what they were whispering about. It wasn't important. She wanted to prevent anything from happening between the mayor and Ms. Bellum. Bubbles sat, wanting to fall asleep. She was exhausted. Exhausted from grieving, exhausted from seeing all the pain, and suffering in the world, just exhausted.
Bubbles sat, not saying a thing for the rest of the time. The car pulled into the parking lot at Manchusen retreat center. They had followed Ms. Bunny, and the Professor. Edd and Sailor were coming up. They parked the car into the parking lot, spot beside the van. Ivanov slept in his seat, as Ms. Bellum, and The Mayor unclicked their seatbelts. Bubbles sat, not knowing what to do. "Ivy". Ms. Bellum said, gently. She tickled Ivanov's cheek. Ivanov opened his eyes. "Da da". Ivanov babbled. "Hi, buddy". "Are you ready to wake up?". Ms. Bellum asked. "Yes". Ivanov said. Ms. Bellum helped him out of his seat, helping him stand up.
The Professor got out of the van, as Rachel and Robbie followed. "Da da da". Rachel babbled. "I know, sweetie". The Professor said, gently. "You drank all of your milk, you are a big girl". "I don't have to go potty". Robbie said. "That's good". The Professor said. "You didn't have that much milk". "You're good to go".
Ivanov played with his fingers. "Buddy". The Professor said, gently. "Would you like some almond milk?". "Some orange juice?". "We'll get you some before you take a nap". "No". Ivanov said. "We'll get some later". The Professor said, kindly. Ivanov made sucking noises.
"I have rocket". Robbie said, playing with his toy rocket. His shuttle. "That's very cool, buddy". The Professor said. "Rockets deliver things to outer space". "Where's space?". Robbie asked. "It's way up there". The Professor said, pointing upward. "Rockets go vroom!". Robbie said. "That's neat, they sure do". The Professor said. "Sailor, and her counselor should be here, soon". The mayor said. "They went down Folley Ave with us". "They might have stopped if we know Edd". The Professor said, rolling his eyes a bit. "He is who he is". The Mayor said. "It'll be fine".
The mayor was wearing his scarf, and overcoat for a chilly day. "The retreat price is $45.50 for all of us". "It's not bad spending in the budget". "The budget might call for something completely different". The Professor said. "I don't think we're overspending". "We shouldn't be". The Mayor said. Another car pulled up, parking in the parking lot. Getting out of the car was Edd, Marie and Sailor. Sailor looked better, although there were bags under her eyes.
"Hey, I didn't think you'd make it". The Professor said, lighting a cigarette. "I had to pick up my better half". Edd said. "Hey". Marie muttered. "Hey". the Professor muttered back. Sailor looked up at Marie. Marie looked even more pregnant than she did before. She looked like she was ready to pop. "we wanted to have a special day with Sailor". Marie said, playing with Sailor's hair. "I don't think you have to stay on the grounds to do anything". The Professor said. "I wouldn't think they'd be that strict about where you go". Edd said. "It's a retreat center, they can't enforce anything". The Professor said.
The Professor blew out smoke from his cigarette. "It's whatever really". "We'll pay them online". Marie said. "They wouldn't have a 67% reduction rate". The Professor said. "Their structure is 55% allotted". "It might be allotted". Marie said. "The important factor to consider is the benefit of help they give". Edd said. "That's true". Marie said. "Mm, I don't know if we told you, but, we made Sailor our child's godparent". "That's amazing". The Professor said, smiling. Sailor looked up at them. "I told them that I'll do whatever it takes to help their baby grow, and learn". Sailor said. "That is something to be proud of". The Professor said, gently. "You are a very special person who is valued". "I'm glad". "Thank you". Sailor said. "We'll discuss it later, but, we did want to say how honored we are to have made our choice". Edd said, kindly, rubbing Sailor's back. "We couldn't have found anyone better". "You light up our lives, and are our hero". "Thank you". Sailor said. She felt a bit proud to be named as a godparent. "Thank you". Sailor said. "I know you really sacrificed a lot for me to feel better". "I'm doing my best". "I feel like I have to work hard, and give back, because I have to earn someone helping me". "I don't want to take from you guys". "I feel selfish". "I'm going to get a job so I can make my own money, and pay you guys everything I took". "Plus, I want to help Cree".
"Sweetie". Edd said, gently. "We love helping you". "You should never think you're being selfish". "You are the most giving person I have ever met besides Marie". "We love you, and will always be there to support you".
"I understand there's been difficulty with some things you've encountered". Edd said, gently. "Which is why we're glad to help you, through anything". "We'll give you some things if you need them". "For now, focus on yourself". He smiled. Sailor nodded. "We love you, baby". Marie said, gently. "We're very happy you're doing this". "Ok". Sailor said, feeling a little bit better. She felt as if she had a purpose. "Sweetie, we would like to discuss some things". Edd said, gently. "We'll talk about it in private". "Ok". Sailor said. "I am very proud of you". The Professor said, gently. "You truly are an amazing person, with an amazing story". "Everyone loves you". "Know that you are important". "You are wonderful". "There's no one as unique as you". "It'll be ok".
"I know". Sailor said, quietly. "I'm trying". "You're doing great". The Professor said, kindly. "Mm". Marie smiled. "You're so inspiring". She played with Sailor's hair. "Thank you". Sailor said. "Sweetie, let's get some milk, and we'll find the hot spring". Edd said, kindly. "Ok". Sailor said. She went to get some almond milk from Bunny.
"That's nice she's your son's godmother". The Professor said, blowing out smoke. "It'll be something she can handle". Edd said. "Not too hard for her, not too expensive". "She'll put the emotional fortitude into it". "She'll have some assistance if needed". The Professor said. "She will". Edd said. "She's a hard worker". "She is". The Professor said, blowing out more smoke.
Sailor came back, holding her almond milk. She looked cute, innocent, as if she was having a tough day, as she stood there. She had on her full body pajamas. "Sweetie". Edd said, gently. "Would you like some chocolate to put in your almond milk?". "I have some if you would like". "No thank you". Sailor said, quietly. She sniffled. "I know a hot spring somewhere, we could talk". Edd said, gently. "Mm, should she come with us?". Marie whispered to Edd. "we might, yeah, you know". "She does need to get her medicine, which is in the car". "We'll have her wait". Edd whispered back. "Mmm, you're such a mother F". Marie giggled. "So are you". Edd said in an alluring voice. They both shared a kiss.
Sailor stood, remembering her grandfather. A tear came down her cheek, as a wet spot sat near the corner of her eye. She loved her grandfather. Now he was gone, and she felt devastated. There was nowhere she could go. She had Cree, and the Lincoln family. There was Edd. But now, she felt as if she was just alone. She felt her world, full of family, and friends crumbling down around her. She sniffled, feeling her loneliness come to.
"Sweetie, are you ready to see the hot spring with us?". Edd asked, gently. "Sure". Sailor said, quietly. She felt like crying. She felt like she needed to just lie down, and cry, feel sad. She wanted to tense up her fists, and cry loudly. The wet spot became more prominent near her eye.
Edd, and Marie, sat in the hot spring, as they felt its warmth. A hot spring was healthier than a hot tub, because it wasn't as hot. It was warm, and soothing. "Baby, come on in". Marie said, gently. Sailor got in the hot spring, feeling the warmth. "This is lovely, isn't it?". Edd said, gently. "I guess". Sailor said, quietly. "Sorry, I...I just...I had a funeral for my grandfather last night, they buried him by my parents". "Only his friends came, and Mr. Lincoln did the whole thing". "Baby, I'm sorry to hear that". Marie said, kindly. "I know grandpa was special". "He was". Sailor said, sniffling.
"You and grandpa had a special relationship". Marie said, gently. "You used to do all kind of things with grandpa". "I did". Sailor said. "I remember when I was little, I first went to Hilton Head, it was where I used to go on vacation with my family". "My grandpa, Grandpa Spencer, used to pat me on the back at the end of the day". "I used to play cards with him, and my grandma". "He used to tell me that I matter". "My opinion is important, and that I shouldn't let anyone that's not a friend waste my time". "My grandpa was smart". "He went all over the world, and collected things". "He used to share facts with me, and he used to read to me, and my sister".
"That's lovely". Edd said, gently. "I'm sure you had fun at Hilton Head". "Yes, my cousins went there, and me and my sister used to play at the pool with them". Sailor said. "We used to play catch, we used to go to the beach, and boogie board, I remember my sister always had an innertube, and it got lost". "I told her to hold onto it, but she lost it". "My sister was like my best friend". "I used to do everything with her, and even though she was annoying sometimes, I never went anywhere without her".
"Me and my sister used to play outside when my parents washed the car". Sailor said. "We used to jump on the trampoline, too". "You and your sister were close". Edd said, gently. "I remember for my birthday we invited my friends over". Sailor said. "We sang, and had a dance party". "We went sled riding down the big hill, with our snow tubes". "My sister, and my dad, they made me laugh". "I remember my friend and I, our snow tubes went right into my sister, and mom's". "We laughed, we thought it was so funny". "Then, my sister danced during the dance party we had later". "She did this weird thing, I don't remember what it was, but, she said it was from a Pixar short film". "It was called Knick Knack". "She did unique things, but, she made me laugh".
"Then, my friend, Brittany, she was my best friend". Sailor continued. "She and I did everything together". "I remember we went on vacation to Deep Creek together, and went tubing, I remember we went to the mall the day after my birthday". "We did so many things". "It's wonderful you had friends you were close with". Edd said, gently. "I remember I had some friends, they were nice to spend time with, as friends are, but, I haven't seen them in a while". "Have your friends helped you through the tough spot, with your parents' deaths?". "Everyone either moved away, or passed on". Sailor said, sniffling. "My friend, Brittany was taken in a terrorist attack, and they found her body near a river". "It was after my family passed away".
"My other friend died of a heart attack, and my one friend, Lexi moved away". "Paige passed away". Tears welled up in Sailor's eyes. "Oh, sweetie". Edd said, gently. "I'm ok, though". Sailor said. "I just...I feel like, sometimes, I'm counting the days". "I feel like I'm just a shell". "I feel like a failure and that I didn't do enough". "I'm not doing enough". "Sweetie", Edd said, kindly. "It is terrible you had to go through so much". "I will be honest with you, you've been doing a phenomenal job with strength". "You are very inspiring to me, personally, and to everyone you've met". "You are truly amazing". "Thank you". Sailor said, sniffling. "Remember though, things will get better". Edd said, gently. "You'll be rewarded for being such an influence". "It's true". Marie said, stroking Sailor's face. "God will reward you for being great". "I know". Sailor said, quietly.
"I won the character award at my school for the county". Sailor said. "I remember you came back from the ceremony". Edd said, gently. "You were very humble, quiet, you were very kind". "I won citizenship awards, I was a hero to someone who was about to take their own life". Sailor said. "That's great, sweetie". Edd said, smiling, kindly. "Someone was on the train tracks, they looked tired, and sad". "I told them not to do it, and that I was going to help them". Sailor said. "I took that person to the hospital". "he got better". "That is good, honey". Edd said, gently. "But, are you worried seeing something, might be traumatic, or trigger emotions?". "I am proud of you, beyond emotion, but, remember to think of how it helps you". "Ok". Sailor said. "It was after my parents were buried". "My teacher saw me, and told the news what I did". "I won the Blue Heart award for bravery from the police".
"That's lovely, sweetie". Edd said, gently. "You are a hero". He tickled Sailor's cheek. "I guess". Sailor said. "I do it because I believe that everyone needs a chance". "Everyone needs to be safe, and happy". "I just want to help everyone just like they helped me". "Everybody sacrificed so much for me, and helped me, I need to help them". "I believe that respect goes both ways, if you're a good friend to somebody, they're a good friend to you". "I want everyone to feel welcome". "That's a good philosophy, sweetie". Edd said, kindly. "You've always been a leader". "I know I'm not the smartest, or the strongest, but, I don't think that's important". Sailor said. "I think having integrity is important". "My family taught me that". "That's wonderful to abide by". Edd said, smiling. "I believed in that, myself". "Mm, baby, are you feeling better?". Marie asked, tickling Sailor's cheek. "A little bit, yes". Sailor said, as a wet spot was seen near her eyes. She was quiet now, but there was still some emotion.
"It's ok to be sad, Sails". Edd said, gently. "There was a saying I heard, someplace". "The brave hide their fears, but share their tears". "I think processing these emotions, and these difficulties only makes us stronger". "I know". Sailor said. A tear came down her cheek, as she sniffled. "I'm trying". She said, stifled by crying. "You're doing great, sweetie". Edd said, kindly. She sat, as tears came down her cheek. She opened her mouth, as her face became red. "It's ok, baby". Marie said, gently. "It's ok". Edd rubbed her back. Sailor cried. A small noise came from Sailor as she cried. "Sweetie, you are our gift". Marie said, gently. "You are our amazing, wonderful, loving gift from god". "We are so honored to have you as our child's godmother". "Do you know why that is?". Sailor shook her head. "That's because you are so brave, and kind, so strong, smart, you are our inspiration". "We chose you because you're the most reliable person we know". "We knew you could handle our baby boy, if anything happened". Sailor cried, letting out a noise.
"It'll be ok". Marie said, kindly. "I love you". Sailor still cried. "I love you very much". Edd said, gently. "It's ok, sweetie". "It's ok". "Would you like some almond milk, or some orange juice?". "Yes". Sailor nodded. "Let's get some almond milk". Edd said. "I brought my own". Sailor said. She got out an almond milk container, drinking some. Edd rubbed her back. "It's ok". He said, kindly. "It's ok". Sailor sniffled, crying. "Shh". Edd comforted. "Shhh". "It's ok, you're doing great, sweetie". "I love you". Sailor sniffled, as her eyes were red. "I'm sorry". She said, quietly. "You're doing well". Edd smiled. "I always love you". "It's ok, honey". He tickled Sailor's cheek, smiling. "Thank you". Sailor said, calming down. "Mmm, this pregnant slut needs to move". Marie said, wobbling up, coming to hug Sailor. "What's a slut?". Sailor asked. "A pregnant lady". Marie lied. She laughed a bit. "Mmm, this crazy mom loves you". Marie said, gently, hugging Sailor. "I know". Sailor said. "Mmm, you're my BFF". Marie said, smiling. "You're the reason I even get out of bed in the morning". "Ok". Sailor said.
Sailor hugged Marie for a while, until a digital watch beeped. "It's time for heart medicine, ok?". Edd said, gently. "Ok". Sailor said. "Then, you have to get ear medicine, too". Edd said. "I think Utonium has your medicine". "Ok". Sailor said, nodding. Sailor had an ear infection, and ear pain caused by the plane crash. Her little ears were doing better. Sailor, cute Sailor in her full body pajamas went to get her medicine.
"Mmm, you're so beautiful". Edd said, in a deep, alluring voice. He took off his underwear, and shorts, now completely shirtless. He laid in a suggestive position. "Edd". Marie smiled, shaking her head. "I can't wait to see what you have for me, turtledove". Edd said, winking seductively at her. "Oh, you're such a pimp". Marie giggled. Edd licked his lips. Marie took off her top, as they sat in the Hot Spring, kissing. Edd curled his tongue around Marie's, digging deeper, and deeper into it. "Mmm, you're a er". Marie giggled. "As are you". Edd said suggestively. They continued kissing, Edd joining his reproductive organ with Marie's. "Doctor said wait 6 more weeks". Marie said, kissing Edd. "but, what do they know?". "They are wrong the majority of the time". Edd said, curling his tongue around Marie's. "Mmm, you're so cool". Marie said, kissing Edd. They both continued kissing. "Mmm, he's kicking". Marie said, feeling her stomach. "That's wonderful". Edd said, putting a hand over Marie's stomach. He continued kissing Marie. They joined their reproductive organs, going in deeper, and deeper. Marie giggling. "Mmm, you're not on drugs, right?". Marie asked. "No, I haven't drank in a while". Edd said, kissing Marie. "Mmm". they kept kissing, as Marie felt Edd's organ in hers. She felt comfortable.
Their toes curled, as Edd bit Marie's tongue, playfully. She felt his p go into her v, breathing, gasping for air. Marie giggled, as they kept kissing. Marie felt the tingly feeling again. They then went back to kissing.
Sailor sat, drinking her milk waiting for Utonium to give her medicine. "Hi, Sweetie". Utonium said, gently. "Hi". Sailor said, quietly. "Are you good?". Professor Utonium asked, gently. Sailor's eyes filled with tears. She began crying. "Sweetie, it's ok". Professor Utonium said, kindly, using his thumb to brush Sailor's cheek. "It'll be ok". He said in a whispery, quiet tone. Sailor screamed, as she balled up her fists. "Shh, it's ok". The Professor said, kindly. "Let's take a deep breath, it's ok". He rubbed Sailor's back. "Are you ok?". "What's wrong, sweetie?". The Professor said, kindly. "I can't do it!". Sailor said, sniffling. "I can't do it, anymore!". "I can't do it!". "It's ok". The Professor said, gently. "Everything will be alright, sweetie". "Let's breathe deep, we'll be ok". "I know it's hard, sweetie". "I know it's been difficult, but, we'll do it". "Let me be honest with you, you are the strongest, most loving, smartest person I have ever met". "You are my inspiration". The Professor stroked her cheek.
Sailor kept crying. "Sorry". She said. "Sweetie, you didn't do anything wrong". The Professor said, gently. "You never have to be sorry". "It's ok". He sat, stroking her cheek with his thumb. "How are you feeling?". He asked, kindly. "I just, I can't do this anymore". Sailor said, sniffling. "I just, I did everything I could, I did everything I could to help everyone". "I tried not to be an idiot, I tried not to fail, but, I can't do it". "I can't do it!". "I can't do it!". Sailor sniffled. "Sweetie, I know it's a difficult week". The Professor said, with a bit of love, and kindness in his voice. "I know it's been hard seeing so much tragedy, so much trauma, but, you should know, I am always here to support you". "There is hope, sweetie". "I think, when all of this is over, you'll be rewarded for being a kind, loving, smart, heroic person". "You'll find something amazing there for you". "Ok". Sailor said.
"I just don't like how people, kids like me, like Ivanov, and my one friend, Anastasia, didn't get what they needed, and they got hurt". Tears still streamed down Sailor's cheek. "I don't like how people make fun of people who are disabled". Sailor said, as she cried. "Sweetie, Ivanov, and your friend, Anastasia, are doing wonderfully". The Professor said, gently. "Ivanov is thriving here in the United States, and even though he had a rough beginning, he is very happy, very glad to be with his family". "Would you like to talk to Anastasia, call her, and tell her how you feel?". The Professor asked, gently. "I'm sure she'll cheer you up". "She's always had an effervescent personality". "No". Sailor said.
"Sweetie, you'll be ok". The Professor said, kindly. "I'm right here beside you to support you, on your journey". "I know it's been difficult, but you'll come to trust how healing the process is". "You're an amazing person, and you'll be rewarded for how great of a job you've done". "I know". Sailor said. "Let's get medicine". The Professor said, taking out a stethoscope to check Sailor's heart. Her heartbeat was normal. He then checked her temperature with the ear thermometer. "No". Sailor said, sniffling. "It's ok, sweetie". The Professor said, gently. "You're doing a terrific job". "I love how patient you've been". He stroked Sailor's head. He took the ear thermometer out, taking out her heart medicine. "Let's swallow, ok?". He said, kindly. Sailor swallowed her heart medicine. "Good job, Sailor". The Professor smiled. He then took out a liquid form of her ear medicine. Sailor swallowed her ear medicine. "Nicely done, sweetie". The Professor said, kindly. He still tickled her cheek, cheering her up.
It wasn't everyday Ivanov felt relaxed. It wasn't everyday Ivanov felt at peace with himself. Ivanov sat near the hot spring, feeling the toxins release from his soul, release from his heart, as he felt his heartbeat. It was so alert, restless, and anxious. It felt as if it was being threatened every second. His soul, his heart felt injured, ripped apart, and torn apart at a young age. It was akin to a young kitten, a young, child, kitten, not even out in the world, not even mature, not even a newborn being attacked, being hurt, being abandoned. Ivanov's heart hadn't been nurtured, it hadn't been taken care of, rocked, fed, or held. His heart was ripped apart, and too crippled to learn.
Ivanov felt the mist surround him, as he closed his eyes. He felt his soul begin to wander, begin to find what it had been missing, although it could not find anything. Ivanov felt the sunlight, felt the rainbow, came before him, as heaven shone down it's radiant gleam. Ivanov felt the memory, and the hope that had been hiding within him come to. He felt a familiar presence. It was a blonde, blue eyed woman, with kind eyes. She held a kind smile, and was young, maybe young, maybe old. She seemed to find Ivanov, and hold him in her arms. Ivanov looked up at this woman, recognizing her, noticing her, as the feeling came that they had met, even if they hadn't.
This woman, Vlamirova, was Ivanov's birth mother. "Mat". Ivanov seemed to say, even if it was slightly. Vladmirova held Ivanov in her arms, as Ivanov came to her. He laid his against hers, as she held him, stroked him.
"Ivanov, Ya Videl Tebya" "I have seen you". Was what she seemed to say. "You are changing the world". "I will always be with you". Vladmirova said.
Ivanov saw his birth mother, he saw her protecting him, guiding him, as her angelic wings seemed to shield him. Ivanov sat in his mother's arms, holding onto her, not letting go anytime soon. Ivanov loved his birth mom. Now, even if he hadn't met her, she was there to guide him, she was there to love him, even if she was far away.
A tear came down Ivanov's cheek, as he saw his birth mom. His hand came up to touch her, meet with her, as he laid his head against her shoulder.
"Ya lyublyu tebya". Vladmirova seemed to say. Ivanov closed his eyes, feeling content with his birth mom. For once, he felt calm, he felt happy. He felt the necklace around his neck his birth mom gave him. He would always keep the happiness. He would always keep the memories, always keep the love with him, everywhere he went. He knew his birth mother would be there for him. Nothing, not even tragedy, could keep them apart. It was the love of a mother, and her son. Ivanov began crying, as his birth mother comforted him. He was with her, he was in heaven with her, it seemed.
Ivanov knelt down, and prayed. Praying was his favorite thing to do. He did go to church, a Catholic church with his adoptive parents, and prayed to god. Praying gave him hope when he felt pain. Praying gave him love, when things were most bleak. He loved god, and often saw his birth family, his birth mother, and father, when praying. He looked cute when praying as well. Amy almost had him canonized, because he had healed a blind woman through his praying, and talking to his birth mom. He had performed some miracles through prayer. Ivanov was quiet in church, and prayed nicely.
"Keep mom safe". Ivanov prayed. He didn't know the words, he didn't know how to put phrases together, physically, although that's what he seemed to say. He was healing through his birth mom. His birth mom was his guardian angel. His birth mom knew him better than anyone. Ivanov sat, praying, he sat feeling the presence of his birth mom. Even if he couldn't see her, physically, he opened his heart, knowing she was there.
"Ivanov". The Professor said, gently. Ivanov was deep in prayer, with his eyes closed. Eventually, Ivanov opened his eyes, looking at the Professor. "Bestie, we have to take your heart medicine". The Professor said, gently. Ivanov still closed his eyes, praying. The Professor understood Ivanov was praying, and gently rubbed his back, even getting on board with what he was doing. "Mat". Ivanov said, praying to his birth mother. Vladmirova appeared in front of them, hugging Ivanov.
The Professor realized just how religious Ivanov was. He was very respectful. "Oh, hello, are you Ivanov's birth mother?". The Professor asked. "I'm pleased to meet you". He said, gently. "Rad znakomstvu". Vladmirova said. "Nice to meet you" she said. "Your son is very nice". The Professor said, politely. "I'm very happy to have met him". "He's my hero". "Da". Vladmirova said. "Yes". Vladmirova hugged Ivanov, happily. Ivanov felt his birth mother, closing his eyes. The Professor was very respectful, and looked on with understanding. Ivanov prayed, as The Professor rubbed his back. "It'll be ok". The Professor said, gently. Ivanov eventually opened his eyes, looking up at the Professor.
"Buddy, how are you?". The Professor asked, gently. "Da da". Ivanov babbled. "Are you ready to take heart medicine?". The Professor said, in a soothing tone. "Da da da da". Ivanov pointed. "Let's get some more almond milk". The Professor said, gently. "All before you take a nap". Ivanov laughed, and played, putting his hands up. "Are you playing, bestie?". The Professor said, smiling, tickling Ivanov. "Are you playing, my best friend?". The Professor ruffled Ivanov's hair. Ivanov felt happier now that he prayed to his birth mom. It was bad that his birth family was killed, but he was positive. He was pleasant most of the time, too. The Professor gave Ivanov his medicine, helping him. "This will just take a second, bestie". The Professor said, putting the ear thermometer in Ivanov's ear, taking his temperature. "Eee!". Ivanov made a concerned noise. "You're doing a great job, bestie". The Professor said, gently. "You're so brave". Ivanov put his hand up near his ear. "You did so well". The Professor said.
"Thank you". Sailor said, feeling inner peace from the Swami that was with her.
Edd, and Marie continued kissing in the hot spring, as they joined reproductive organs. Sailor came in, with her pajamas on, holding her teddy bear. "Hi, sweetie". Marie said, gently. "Mm, are you ready for lunch?". "I guess". Sailor said, feeling a little bit better after the Swami comforted her. "I think". Sailor said. She felt tired, although. She felt like she needed to lie down. "Hello, Sails". Edd said, kindly, looking up at her. "Is everything ok?". "Yes". Sailor said. "I'm sorry to bother you". "Sweetie, you're ok". Edd said, kindly. "I've loved working with you, being with you throughout this whole process". "I am the fortunate one". Edd smiled. "I know". Sailor smiled. She was going to be ok.
As they all went home afterwards, they all felt an inner peace that resonated within all of them. Maybe they would all be ok. Death had happened, trauma had happened, but they were still heroic, and loving throughout the process. There would be a brighter tomorrow.