At the Group home, Daniel waited, wondering, thinking about his family. He pondered his family. He wondered if his family was coming anytime soon. He sat by the window, waiting for his family. Unfortunately, they never came.
"Does my fa-mi-ly love me?". Daniel asked, looking up at Wilma. Daniel had a hopeful, yet saddened look in his eyes. He looked as if he'd been pained. Wilma didn't want to hurt him, yet she kept it honest for him.
"I'm afraid not". Wilma said, gently. "why not?" Daniel asked. "Well, you aren't as intelligent as what's normal for a person". Wilma said, gently. "you're a mistake of nature". "oh". Daniel said, sighing a bit. "the reality is, you've been cursed with a horrible genetic disorder". Wilma said, gently. "It's crippled you, and made you into someone who's so diseased". "It's made you into the mistake you are". Daniel felt the reality hit him. He was a mistake. "Someday, there will be a cure". Wilma said, gently. "Someday, your condition won't exist". "people with your condition won't exist".
Daniel sat, feeling the reality weigh on him similar to a ton of bricks. He sat, feeling the emotional pain, and sadness come over him. "I hurt". He said, looking out the window. "I understand, sweetie". Wilma said, gently. "do you love me?". Daniel asked, looking at Wilma. Wilma pursed her lips, not responding. Daniel didn't catch on to the cynicism. He didn't catch on to the hatred.
Daniel played with his toy, being naïve, being an idiot. It was pretty bad, the cynicism, but it was what it was. It was the reality of the world.
Wilma sat in her office, late that afternoon doing some work, waiting for her client. Ivanov came in, holding his toy truck. He babbled a bit, laughing, and playing. "mmm, hello, buddy". Wilma said, gently. "Hello, how are you today?". "How are you?". She nuzzled Ivanov. "mm, I'm so glad to see you, baby boy". "I love you". Ivanov said, hugging Wilma. "I love you, too, honey". Wilma said, gently. "so, how are you?". "Did you sleep well last night?". "yes". Ivanov said. "I sleep good". "That's good, buddy". Wilma said, gently.
Ivanov looked down at Wilma's stomach. "baby". Ivanov said, looking at Wilma's stomach. "mmm, yep". Wilma said, gently. "She's in there, trouncing my stomach". She chuckled a bit. "mmm, god made this baby for our family". Wilma said, gently. "for you, and I, and my husband". Ivanov tried piecing together pregnancy, and a baby. He didn't understand the concept either.
Ivanov looked truly puzzled, as he looked up at Wilma. Wilma chuckled, smiling. "oh, sweetheart". Wilma said, gently. "it's ok". "the baby grows in my stomach over a period of time". "god put her there". Ivanov knew the concept involving god. "mmm, sweetie, do you want to kiss the baby, hello?". Wilma asked, gently. "baby sleep". Ivanov said, looking at Wilma's stomach. "mmm, she might be". Wilma said, gently. "Let's kiss her, and wake her up". Fabric rustled, silk rustled, as Wilma lifted her silk dress. Ivanov looked at Wilma's stomach. Wilma was indeed, really pregnant at this point. Ivanov hugged Wilma's stomach, kissing her stomach. "aww, good job, buddy". Wilma said, gently. "Thank you for that". "I loved that".
A "trsss". Was heard as fabric rustled. "mmm, you are so thoughtful". Wilma said, gently. "I always love that about you". "baby wake up". Ivanov said. "mmm, she is awake, and loves you, too". Wilma said, gently. "mm, my sweet boy". Wilma stroked Ivanov's face, as he laughed and played. He was excited Wilma was having a baby. Ivanov held his truck close. "truck". Ivanov said, identifying the toy he had in his hand.
"That's a nice looking truck". Wilma said, gently. "Do you like playing with toys often?". "Yes". Ivanov said. "mm, that's lovely". Wilma said, gently. "I know you enjoy dump trucks". "Those are good".
Ivanov laughed, playing with his toy truck. "Sweetie, did you sleep good last night?". Wilma asked, gently. "Yes". Ivanov said. "mm, you didn't have any bad nightmares, or anything scary?". Wilma asked, gently. "no". Ivanov said. "mm, that's wonderful, honey". Wilma said, gently. "I'm so happy to hear that". "You are doing so well". "So, I hear your family is going to Italy this March?". Ivanov didn't respond, as he made sucking noises, staring at his fingers. "Ivanov". Wilma said, gently. Ivanov looked up at Wilma, responding to her feminine, soothing voice. "Ivy, are you going to Italy this March?". Wilma asked, gently. "Yes". Ivanov said. "That's nice". Wilma said, gently. "I hear you're going there for canonization". "That's so neat, honey". "saint". Ivanov said. "Mommy, and daddy say I'm a saint".
"you are a Saint". Wilma said, gently. "mmm, you've helped a blind man see, you helped a crippled man walk, you healed a man that was about to pass on". "I will say this honestly, you are my love, and joy". "You are my light that shines each, and every day". "I've loved you even before I met you". "Our friendship will move mountains".
"Thank you". Ivanov said. "Of course, sweetie". Wilma said, gently. "I love how influential you are to everyone". "you are my treasure". "thank you". Ivanov said. Wilma stroked his face. "How are you feeling?". Wilma asked, gently. "Are you feeling ok?". "yes". Ivanov said, laughing and playing. "Good to hear". Wilma said, kindly.
Wilma felt lucky she had this close a bond with Ivanov. Ivanov was a hero to her. He was someone she could look to, for religious grace.
It wasn't Saturday of that week that Sailor came, and stayed with Wilma and Fred. It was many more Saturdays going up to later the next month. Sailor rode home with Wilma, as Wilma drove, a bit tired. Wilma contemplated a cigarette, although didn't have one, as smoking wasn't ideal for pregnant women. Sailor sat, feeling a bit depressed for some reason. She felt as if things weren't going well. Her eyes welled up with tears a bit. "Sailor". Wilma said, gently. Sailor looked over at Wilma, swallowing her tears. "yes?". Sailor asked, with some sadness to her voice. "Sweetie, what's troubling you?". Wilma asked, gently. "Are you feeling alright?". "Kind of". Sailor said. "not really". "What's making you sad?". Wilma asked, kindly. "I don't know, It's just everything". Sailor said. "I keep thinking about death, and I keep thinking about hurting myself". "I don't know why I keep thinking about those things".
"Sweetie, I think with all you've been through, regarding your family's death, and the attack, you're experiencing some trauma". Wilma said, gently. "sometimes, after a personal tragedy, these feelings come, and are felt". "But, things will get better, and look up for you". "I promise".
Sailor sniffled a bit. "What do I do?". Sailor asked. "mmm, we'll get you on a higher dosage of your medicine". Wilma said, gently. "That may help". "I don't know". Sailor said. "What if it doesn't?". "It'll help, sweetie". Wilma said, gently. "You just have to trust it to do some good". Sailor sniffled, as tears dropped from her eyes. She cried a bit.
"shhhh, shhh, it's ok". Wilma said, gently. Wilma rubbed Sailor's back. "I love you, sweetie". "We'll get this worked out as a family". "Ok". Sailor said. Wilma kissed Sailor's cheek. "Things will get better for both of us, trust me". Wilma said, gently. "Ok". Sailor said. "Are you ready to go in, and see Fred?". Wilma asked, gently. "ok". Sailor said. Wilma rubbed Sailor's back, as she and Sailor went in the house.
Fred sat on the reclining chair, reading the newspaper. "Hey there". He said to Sailor, as Sailor came in. "Hi". Sailor said, quietly. "How are you, honey?". Fred asked, gently, kissing Sailor's cheek. "good". Sailor said, quietly. "Sailor, sweetie, why don't we put our things in this bedroom". Wilma said, gently. Sailor picked up her overnight bag, putting it in the other bedroom. "Is this ok?". Sailor asked. "It's perfect, sweetie". Wilma said, gently. "I love you very much". "I love you, too". Sailor said, feeling at least a little bit happier.
"mm, are you ok, sweetie?". Wilma asked, gently. "I'm fine". Sailor said. "I'm just, doing my best". "Sweetie, you're doing very well". Wilma said, gently. "I'm so happy to see you improving each day". "I know". Sailor said. Wilma kissed Sailor's forehead. Sailor looked at Wilma's stomach, seeing Wilma was even more pregnant than ever before. Sailor grew concerned, as a tear fell from her cheek. Wilma could tell Sailor was uneasy.
"shh, it's ok". Wilma said, softly, in a gentle voice. "It's ok, sweetie". "I'm here with you". "it'll be fine".
"Ok". Sailor said. Wilma kissed Sailor's cheek. "would you like some time to rest for a bit?". Wilma asked, gently. "yes, please". Sailor said. "We'll meet our friends later for dinner". Wilma said, gently. "who are our friends again?". Sailor asked, looking up at Wilma. "They're more couples friends of ours, Betty and Barney". Wilma said, gently. "Oh, I met them once". Sailor said. "I think you introduced me to them". "Perhaps". Wilma said, gently. "You met them when we went to that craft show in Viera". "Right". Sailor said.
"you'll love them, they are so patient, and nuanced". Wilma said, gently. "I'm quite lucky to have them, myself". "Is Barney the one with Blonde hair?". Sailor asked. "He is". Wilma said. "Ok, I was wondering who they were". Sailor said. Wilma smiled a gentle smile, kissing Sailor's forehead. "I love you so much, sweetie". Wilma said, gently. "I love you too". Sailor said. Sailor opened her book, going to the last few pages she was on. For some reason, she found it hard to concentrate on her reading. She found it hard to focus on the words on the page. She felt like crying for some reason. There was a wet spot that formed on the corner of her eyes.
Sailor felt as if her family's death was her fault. She felt it was her fault things were the way they were. She felt she wasn't strong enough, or smart enough. She felt the sadness, the pain, the horrendous feelings return. Sailor sat, as tears welled up in her eyes. She laid down on the pillow, crying. She sniffled, looking upward. Her chest hurt, as she looked up. She made a noise, that sounded like a cry. She was in pain. Her chest throbbed, as she looked up, sniffling. She laid down on the bed, putting her book aside. She cried into her pillow. She screamed a little bit as well.
She kept crying, as she looked around, seeing nothing. Eventually, she cried until she was tired, and she felt herself going to sleep.
Later, she heard footsteps come in, as she looked up from her pillow. Wilma was there. "Sweetie". Wilma said, gently. Sailor looked up at Wilma. Sailor's eyes looked a bit red, and crusty from crying. "yes?". Sailor asked, tiredly. "Are you ready to meet our friends for dinner?". Wilma asked, gently. "I guess". Sailor said, getting up. "take as much time as you need". Wilma said, gently. "I know it's been a hard day, sweetie". "We'll get some dinner at your favorite restaurant".
"um…Faglio's?". Sailor asked. "That's it". Wilma said, gently. "oh, thank you". Sailor said. "of course". Wilma said, gently. "For our amazing heroine". She kissed Sailor's forehead. "ok". Sailor said. Sailor got some new clothes out of her suitcase, going into the restroom. Wilma smiled a gentle smile, admiring Sailor. Sailor truly was an amazing person. She deserved only the best.
Wilma went into the other room, putting on a silk, maternity dress, and flats, as she did her hair.
"Are we almost ready?". Fred asked, putting the paper down. "Just about". Wilma said, putting on a fresh coat of Lipstick. "How is she?". Fred asked, secretively. "mm, she seemed very pensive". Wilma whispered. "She's very depressed, but, hopefully taking her out will cheer her up". "Perhaps". Fred said.
Sailor came out, wearing a dark blue shirt, with gold lettering, and a dark blue skirt. "you look beautiful, sweetie". Wilma said, gently. "I love it". "Thank you". Sailor said. Wilma bent down, kissing Sailor's cheek. A lipstick smudge was left on Sailor's cheek. "feeling better?". Wilma asked, gently. "I am". Sailor said. "Or at least, I'm trying". "never worry, sweetie". Wilma said, gently. "you're doing well". "I am always beside you as a guardian angel, here to protect you". "Thanks". Sailor said. Wilma brushed Sailor's cheek, gently, with her backhand. Fred came out, wearing his orange garb, with a blue tie. "Are ya'll ready?". Fred asked, gently. "we are". Sailor said. "mmm, I have one last thing that'll help". Wilma said, gently. Wilma tied a baby bib around Sailor front part of her shirt. She put a neck pillow around Sailor's neck. "There you are, honey". Wilma said, kindly. "All ready". Wilma made circles on Sailor's cheek, kissing Sailor's cheek again. "I love you, my best friend". Wilma said, gently. "Our friendship, our love will take us to great places". "Together we are indefadicable". She kissed Sailor's ear. "Is your ear ok, sweetie?". "Let's take ear medicine with us as well, to take before dinner".
Sailor had ear, and hearing problems after the plane crash. Her ear would become swollen, black and blue, and it would burn, and throb immensely. Sailor took antibiotics, and ear medicine to help her ears.
"Let's take milk with us as well, honey". Wilma said, gently. She got an almond milk container out of the fridge, tucking it in Sailor's hand. "There, all better". Wilma said, gently. "Ok". Sailor said. "Thank you".
They walked out of the house, and to their car. Fred's car looked to be about the same age as Wilma's. It was an old Jaguar. They pulled out of their garage, driving down the street to Faglio's. Wilma placed her hand in Fred's, as they drove along. She and Fred whispered, couple's whisper as they drove along.
Wilma's stomach did look big, as she sat back, reclining a bit in her seat. "mm, did we renew the lease for the vacation spot in Islamorada?". Wilma asked, in a gentle, soft whisper. "we may've". Fred said. "We might have to see if it has an extended lease, that way we can get in on it, and buy it right away". "mmm, we should". Wilma said in a gentle whisper. "we might have an annuity but, we'll leave everything up to those who know it best". "That would be the right thing to do". Fred said. "mm, I know a pediatrician that's 1st in the county we can sign up with, for when the baby comes". Wilma said, in a gentle whisper. "That'd be good". Fred said. "I'll make payments, and deductions for when the time comes". "mmm". Wilma hummed a bit, softly. She looked at Fred, gazing at Fred, as she held his hand.
They leaned in a bit, kissing one another on the lips. "we'll do it when we have time to be distracted". Wilma whispered. "Indeed". Fred said. They gave each other another kiss. Sailor looked up at the both of them, feeling very comforted now. Her sadness all of a sudden, disappeared. She felt as if she'd been gifted with a loving, supportive home. She'd been given a nurturing, stable, familial environment. It was with Fred and Wilma's love, their marriage that she could rely on, and come to if she ever needed it. It was her comfort, it was her strength. Sailor felt tears of happiness, tears of relief, and comfort come to her eyes. She sniffled. Her eyes welled up with tears. She felt comforted by this family, her family, that was getting a new addition. Sailor felt as if she was getting a baby sister, or cousin. Sailor wanted to protect the new baby. She wanted to be the mentor, guardian, teacher the new baby needed. She wanted to be the baby's hope, and faith, just as she was Wilma and Fred's hope.
Sailor sat, drinking her almond milk. Her beautiful, round eyes looked off to the side, as she drank her milk. They still looked up though. Sailor was a heroine. She was a friend, mentor, teacher, guardian, protector of everyone she met. Everyone trusted Sailor, and knew she would be honest with them, about anything. Before, when Sailor was in the guest room, looking at her book, Dino came in, rolling over on his back showing his stomach. Dino trusted Sailor, and knew she would be gentle, and helpful. Sailor was a cute girl, who was so honest, and hardworking.
Sailor drank her almond milk, as her eyes began to fall a bit. She was a bit tired. Fred glanced back at Sailor for a quick moment before whispering something to Wilma. "she is so cute, so amazing". Fred whispered. "she is". Wilma whispered. Wilma looked back at Sailor. "Honey, are you ok?". Wilma asked, gently. "I'm fine". Sailor said. "let us know if you need anything". Wilma said, gently. "Ok". Sailor said. Wilma smiled a gentle, admiring smile to Sailor. Sailor truly was wonderful.
"Perhaps we should let them know we're on our way". Fred said, taking out his cell phone. He took his phone out, calling Barney. Wilma looked back at Sailor, smiling gently. Wilma held a feminine, womanly, thin glow to her. Wilma just stared at Sailor. Her lips went into a straight line. For the longest time, Wilma just stared at Sailor. Wilma looked tired, exhausted as she looked back at Sailor. Carrying a child was a difficult thing, for any woman. Sailor looked up at Wilma, finally piecing together what things meant. She understood the process, and felt as if she was a part of the process. She understood relationships, and the marriage between Fred, and Wilma. Sailor understood. Wilma stared back at Sailor, letting out a sigh. Wilma was exhausted. Sailor knew her deprivation counselor was having a baby. She knew Wilma was pregnant. Even though Sailor didn't know what Fallopian tubes, or a uterus was yet, she understood, and felt as if she was part of something bigger. She felt as if she was part of a womanhood.
Sailor looked up at Wilma, feeling as if she was part of something bigger. She did understand. Wilma looked back at Sailor, looking at her, looking at her porcelain, young face. Sailor was so...hardworking, and honest. She was so innocent, and pure. She truly was a heroine. Sailor was still a little girl, however. She still didn't know about sex, and marriage yet. She didn't know about dating, or relationships, or even the female reproductive system. Little Sailor didn't even have her period yet. Wilma would talk to her, however. She would be there with any questions Sailor had, about anything. Wilma felt Sailor did work hard, however. Sailor did try at everything she did, even if she didn't have natural skill, or a genius IQ. Wilma still felt proud of Sailor.
Fred pulled the car into the parking lot at Faglio's, finding a close parking spot. Faglio's was inside of a plaza, so they would walk across the bridge to the restaurant. They got out, as Wilma hobbled out of the car. "are you alright, would you like any more help?". Fred asked. "mm, thanks, babe". "I think I'm alright for now". Wilma said in a gentle whisper. She kissed Fred on the lips. "Sailor, are you alright, honey?". Wilma asked, gently. "I'm ok". Sailor said. "I can get out". Sailor got herself out of the car, walking in with Wilma and Fred. Near the entrance, was a woman with jet black hair, and an ice blue negligee. A man wearing brown, with blonde hair, stood nearby as well. Betty and Barney Rubble were there. "Hey there". Barney said, as smoke came from his cigarette. "hey". Fred said, patting Barney on the back. "Hey". Betty said in a gentle, calming voice. "Hello". Wilma said, as she and Betty kissed one another on the cheek. "Hello, Sailor, how are you?". Betty asked, calmly. "I'm good". Sailor said. "How are you?". "Doing well". Betty said, calmly. "you look beautiful, sweetheart". Betty said, gently. "Thank you". Sailor said. "How are things, how's school?". Betty asked, gently. "It's going really well". Sailor said. "I won a character award, and I placed 5th in the regional spelling Bee".
"That's wonderful, sweetie". Betty said, gently. She kissed Sailor's cheek. "you are very intelligent".
"Thank you". Sailor said. "Hey, Sailor, dear". Barney said, gently. "Hi". Sailor said, as Barney gave her a hug. "You look great". Barney said, gently. "Thank you". Sailor said. "I got this outfit with the money I got for selling my parents' house". "It looks great". Betty said, gently.
"How long did it take to come down Minton?". Barney asked. "It only took a bit of time". Fred said. "It's a back road, so it wasn't as painful to come down". "We went down 95, and it was atrocious the people that kept drifting, and wouldn't stay in their spot". Betty said. "That's odd". Fred said. "Each time, we're on 95, no one ever drifts".
"mmm, we've never had drifters out by us". Wilma said. "It's been relatively easy by far". "No one breaking the rules, that's good". Barney said. "I like backroads because I don't have to worry about there being an accident". Sailor said. "They are pretty convenient". Betty said, gently. "When we went to see my mother, who's out in Sebring, we took backroads the whole trip". "That's good". Sailor said. "what kind of roads were there?". "Let's see, Micco was one of them, Thornwood, then Green Apple". Betty said, thoughtfully. "Either way, they were all back handles, but we went through many quaint little areas". "Is Sebring nice?". Sailor asked. Sailor was like a little adult, having conversations, acting mature, answering, and asking questions. She knew how to act like an adult around those who were older. She still was a kid who liked playing outside, riding her bike, and playing with her Barbie dolls, bringing her Barbie dolls to school for indoor recess, but she also was able to be mature beyond her age.
"Sebring is a lovely place". Betty said, gently. "It's near Lake Placid, so there are a lot of homes right there on the water, there's a regional bank, an assortment of restaurants, it's a quaint town that hasn't been economically sufficient for years, although it is a delightful area". "Barney and I sometimes go, and we'll have dinner on the water, we'll take a sunset walk, it's usually a peaceful place to do it". "That's nice". Sailor said. "My family's never been to Sebring, but we've been to Lake Placid". "It is beautiful". Betty said, gently.
"mmm, Fred and I have been to Lake Placid". Wilma said, gently. "We drove up there with my sister, and her husband for a craft show". "It was scenic touring the lakeside, eating on the river, it was lovely". "That was the Oceanic craft festival, wasn't it?". Betty asked. "It was". Wilma said, gently. "It had designers, and their exhibitions come from all over the county". "It was delightful to see, although Fred wanted to see Spring Training, so we let the men do that". "Barney usually goes up to Spring Training with his friends". Betty said, gently. "This year it was in Port Charlotte, so he went up there with a couple of his friends". "I went to Port Charlotte with my family". Sailor said. "It was nice, but, we had my mom's side of the family with us". "That's lovely, sweetie". Wilma said, gently. "It is a ravishing place up there". "We went to the seaside Dock, and had a seafood pasta that was lovely".
"I can't wait to have pasta here". Sailor said, looking up at Wilma and Betty. "It is lovely". Wilma said, gently. Wilma played with Sailor's hair a bit. "What's lovely?". Fred asked. "This restaurant?". "Yes". Wilma said, gently. "Oh, it is good". Fred said. "Their Scampi is nice". Betty and Wilma chuckled. "Can men really like something as classy as Scampi?". Wilma asked. "All Barney ever eats is Hoagies, and Pizza". Betty said. "my mom used to say men were weird". Sailor said. "your mom may've been on to something". Wilma said, gently. The ladies chuckled.
"I first got Barney to eat scampi when we were out with my parents". Betty said, gently. "Scampi isn't that bad". Barney said. "It's similar to a pizza with shrimp, and noodles on the inside". "you always think in terms of pizza". Betty said. "That is my go-to meal". Barney said. Betty rolled her eyes. Everyone laughed after a while. Even Sailor laughed along with them. She felt at-home, and nice with the Rubbles, and the Flintstones. Hanna Barbera characters were gentle, comforting, warm, supportive, and kind. They also let Sailor do as she pleased. They would be kindhearted, yet wise, and loving toward her.
It was soon time to go in, as the two couples checked in. "Good evening". A kind attendant said. "Do you have a reservation?". "Yes, it's under Flintstone". Fred said. "Fred Flintstone, party of five". "Yes, I see you right here". The attendant said. "Right this way". She led them over to a nice table closest to the window. It was a nice, dimly lit table, where the light from the lamp flickered a bit. The couples sat down. "This is nice". Betty said, sitting down. "It is". Barney said. "Thanks for bringing us". "Oh, honey it was all you, I just handled the convincing". Betty said, kissing Barney on the lips. "mm, this is wonderful". Wilma said, gently. "you picked an excellent place, Sailor, sweetie". Wilma squeezed Sailor's hand. "Thank you". Sailor said. "I just hope they have pizza, or at least a calzone". "Hey, that's Italian isn't it?". Fred said. Wilma rolled her eyes. "I'm sure they're a bit fancy for pizza, but they do have a prime rib I was reading about". Wilma said.
"It works for me". Fred said, picking up his menu, looking it over. "How are things coming along?". Betty asked, gently. Betty read her menu a bit. "mmm, things are going well". Wilma said, gently. "She kicked a bit earlier this morning". "I felt her move a bit, but she'll be out in less than two weeks time". "That'll be nice". Betty said. "Barney and I have tried, although my OB-GYN said I was unable to have children". "We're looking into adoption, and possibly being foster parents". "That's lovely". Wilma said. "What all does the process entail?". "We do have to apply for beneficiaries, do a home visit, an interview, and a few other things". Betty said. "We wouldn't have to navigate anything bureaucratic, but it does involve a lot of social aspects".
"I do a majority of counseling with children who have been internationally adopted, and their parents do say it is a long process". Wilma said. "They have to do a home study, they have to do a majority of things before anything can be rightfully distributed".
"Do kids that are Internationally adopted have some learning problems sometimes?". Sailor asked, looking up at Wilma. "mmm, in some cases, if the orphanage they're in, is systematically decrepit". Wilma said, gently. "This means there's a low caregiver, to child ratio, or if the director hasn't been licensed". "Which, there are an abundance of places that haven't been licensed". "I've seen the abundance of Group based facilities that aren't licensed". Betty said. "It's terrible". "It's terrible that they can even run these facilities willy nilly". Barney said.
"To answer your question, sometimes workers in these orphanages do things very mechanically". Wilma said to Sailor, gently. "these children aren't getting the love, or care, the stimulation they need to succeed". "That's why some of them have developmental delays, they have trouble forming attachments with other caregivers, they have an abundance of weak points that I address when working with these children".
"Can it get bad as the kids get older?". Sailor asked. "Right about the time they become teenagers is when we see problems begin to manifest". Wilma said, gently. "This is why we address needs early".
"Do you have a specialization, or a preferred type of patient you work with?". Barney asked. "I work with children who've experienced trauma in infancy, who suffer from a lack of nurturing, or stimulation, those who've experienced trauma, abuse, international adoption, and death of a birth parent, or any other kind of environmental trauma". Wilma said.
"How's that been?". Betty asked. "my patients are nice". Wilma said. "As a counselor, I work with any intellectual level, although they all have a similar background". "Some are survivors of genocide, some have lost birth parents due to war, some have come from broken homes, or a broken foster care system, some come from abuse in infancy". "they all come from different backgrounds, but they each have faced adversity". "My job is to look after these patients, and make sure they have someone to trust, or someone to guide them along their process".
"you're a really nice counselor". Sailor said. "I've noticed that you really care about people, and you're really kind". "you've helped me I know".
"thank you, sweetie". Wilma said, gently. "I often develop a friendship with my patients, as a way to work alongside them as a guide". "That's nice". Betty said. "I believe friendships are beneficial in order to work with the patient". "you can't just be a boss, or a slime pit to them anymore". Fred said. "Just look at how far we've come from keeping people locked up, and throwing them around". "It has gotten better". Wilma said, gently.
"It used to be bad?". Sailor asked. "Oh yes". Barney said. "they wouldn't let anyone that was handicapped come out of their rooms for the longest time, but they've gotten better with it". "They truly have". Betty said.
A waiter came over, holding a bottle of wine to pour. "Hello, everyone". The waiter said. "good evening, may I start you off with something to drink?". "I'll have some iced tea, sweetened". Wilma said. "I'll have a coke". Fred said. "Iced tea". Betty said. "coke as well". Barney said. "Can I have almond milk?". Sailor asked. "Of course". The waiter said. "Let me just get those for you".
A short time later, the waiter came back with everyone's drinks. The waiter took everyone's order. Sailor got pasta with spicy marinara sauce. Fred got a prime rib steak, Wilma got Pimento Parmesan puffs, Betty got vegetable lasagna, and Barney got the scampi. The waiter went to put everyone's order in, disappearing with each slinking step.
"How've things been at Brightcare?". Betty asked, as she took a sip of her iced tea. "They've been well". Wilma said. "We've been sitting in on their healthcare, and Medicare meetings". "it doesn't look like a few of them will be getting coverage". "They should automatically get coverage because of their insurance". Barney said. "They may not if Posey doesn't straighten things out with the affluence bill". Wilma said. "I thought the majority of Social Security comes from the government". Fred said. "mmm, well, it comes from the state generally, but under the legislation, they may not get the coverage that they need". Wilma said.
"In our group facility, which is also focused on Intellectual disability, and lack of nurturing, the residents get the full amount paid, which every month gets deducted as their expenses come up, so in actuality, they're getting less money every month". Betty said. "It's horrible, as these adults haven't done anything wrong, yet they're getting money stolen from them". "I hate seeing it, but, it's what has happened ever since Feldman has been in charge of the policy holding".
"Feldman hasn't done anything right". Barney said. "He hasn't even been able to get the red tide under control". "He isn't capable of really anything".
"What about how in some group homes, there are people who are being hit, and beaten, and someone almost got killed". Sailor said. "Well, unfortunately, there are people who just aren't licensed to run group facilities". Betty said. "these people don't get background checks, the strike team, and the hospital doesn't check their credentials". "They're in power there, and they keep the money for themselves, even when their organization is supposed to be nonprofit".
"Ours is a good facility, luckily". Wilma said. "We have good relationships with the patients there, although, it is sad". Wilma pursed her lips a bit. "why is it sad?". Sailor asked. "Well, these poor adults never have any visitors that come on families' day". Wilma said, gently. "They have no one, and are with no one, which makes their journey a bit more tantalizing". "I'm sure it is trying, caring for them". Fred said, taking one taste of his coke. "mmm, well, I understand it is a trial for them". "They are genetically, and adaptively normal, although they have suffered trauma, abuse, despair". "They are wonderful people, and in reality, I do think they deserved more". "So I give them more, spoil them, because they deserve some good in their lives".
"It's not difficult, wiping them, feeding them, taking them to the toilet, isn't it harder on you, Wil, as you're expecting?". Barney asked. "It is difficult if they weigh a lot". Wilma chuckled. "in essentiality, I believe it was my calling to help others". "I've always believed I was made to better the lives of those who needed it". "When I was younger, I helped an older man who was handicapped, live a better life". "I believe everyone deserves to have a good quality of life, and deserves to be loved, and cherished by at least one person, even while others may not". If there's at least one person that is willing to love, that's a start".
"Can I volunteer at Brightcare?". Sailor asked, looking up at Wilma. "I can help the adults there get dressed, and eat, and use the bathroom". "I think I can help them".
"sweetie, I think you have to be of a certain age to volunteer there". Wilma said, gently. "That does sound lovely, however". "ok". Sailor said. "I want to help them with you". "I understand, sweetie, and that's very sweet". Wilma said, gently. "but you do have to be at least 16 to volunteer, with a parent's signature". "Oh, ok". Sailor said.
"I would say my position is rewarding". Betty said, gently. "I love those I work with, and believe they are truly great people who have been dealt a horrible hand". "I hate seeing them suffer with their condition, and I believe neurotypicals should hate seeing them suffer". "They should be taken care of, looked after, and celebrated because of their differences". "When I was in high school, I looked after three adult sisters who were intellectually disabled, and dressed them, fed them, kept them company at night". "They were biological sisters who had been abused in foster care as infants". "They had the mental capacity of a young child, yet they were social, they were kind, giving". "I loved caring for them".
"That's similar to one of my patients, Ivanov, did you ever hear of him?". Wilma asked. "Oh, yes, St. Ivanov". Barney said. "I believe he's about 10 years old, worked several miracles, born in Russia". "Yes, he's one of my patients". Wilma said. "oh, that's lovely". Betty said. "Yes, Ivanov is so giving, hardworking, trustworthy, kind". "He truly is wonderful". Wilma said.
"I love working with Ivanov".
"I pray to St. Ivanov and St. Ira". Sailor said. "They are both really inspirational to me". "I know that I can do anything when I have them".
"They both have been through adversity in infancy". Betty said. "they have". Wilma said. "I love their generosity, kindness, strength, reverence, holiness". "They are my inspiration, I tell Ivanov each day he's with me".
"They are heroic". Betty said. "they are amazing". Sailor said. "they're my heroes, and influence to do good".
"I would love to care for them". Betty said. "I would as well". Wilma said.
The neurotypical adults sat, agreeing that Ivanov and Ira were successful, even if they did need their care.
The food came then, as the waiter brought out a cart. He got everyone's food out. "Here you are". The waiter said, kindly. He handed Fred his prime rib, Betty her vegetable lasagna, Wilma her pimento parmesan puffs, Sailor her pasta marinara, and Barney his Scampi.
Everyone sat, enjoying their food, eating. Sailor felt comforted by her pasta marinara, feeling the feeling of comfort come within her, helping her through. Sailor ate her pasta, feeling calmed by the spice, by the taste. Everyone ate their food, feeling calmed.
"Do you remember the designation check we had in the bank a few months ago?". Betty asked Barney. "Somewhat". Barney said. "I think that check was for savings, and a few other things put in the bank". "I might've referenced it for severance". "I had that check put in there for emergency services". Betty said. "It may still be in there". Barney said.
"We had a designation check sent to us by my mother". Wilma said, eating her Parmesan puffs. "That assured us we could use any monetary formulation until the end of our employment". "That wouldn't be until later on down the road". "your mother had beneficiaries that often supplied the money to those checks". Fred said. "She did, and those checks were the primary source of her debt she owed to us". Wilma said. "They had the money owed to us". "hmm". Fred said. There was a bit of quiet as everyone ate their dinner, not saying a thing. "It must be good". Sailor said. "You're all quiet". The four adults laughed with the hilarity of her comment.
"It is good, now that you mention it". Betty said, gently. "not to worry, we hardly ever talk when we're together". Barney said. "I talk to you". Fred said. "Not when you're playing golf, you don't". Barney said. "That is true". Fred said.
They all enjoyed their dinner, and after dinner, talked and had some coffee. Wilma looked up at Fred, as she placed her hand in his. "mmm, I think I might be just about ready, hon". Wilma said, gently, albeit, tiredly as she looked up at Fred. "I'm full as well". Fred said, tiredly shifting about in his seat. Sailor looked up from her almond milk. "Sweetheart, are you ready to go?". Wilma asked Sailor, gently. "I am". Sailor said. "mmm, let's go home, and we'll get ready for bedtime". Wilma said, gently. "We have church in the morning". Sailor said. "mmm, yes we do". Wilma said, gently.
Everyone stood up from the table, walking outside across the bridge, over to where the parking lot was. "This certainly has been nice". Betty said, kindly. "Thank you". "Of course". Wilma said, kissing Betty on the cheek. "thank you". "Oh, yes thank you". Betty said, gently. "Thank you very much". Fred said to Barney. "yes, well, alright". Barney said. "Thank you as well".
"Thank you, and I'll see you again". Sailor said, looking up at Betty, and Barney. "I shall see you again, sweetie". Barney said, gently. "you take care of yourself now". "I will". Sailor said. "goodbye, sweetheart". Betty said, gently. "I'll talk to you again, soon". "Love you". "I love you, too". Sailor said, as they said their goodbyes, heading out to the car in the parking lot.
Fred and Wilma got in their old Jaguar car, sitting in their seats, looking up through the skylight at the stars that sat above. "mmm, it's so peaceful out here". Wilma said in a soft hum. She gazed at Fred. "It truly is". Fred said, gazing back at his wife. They gazed at one another before they kissed one another on the lips. They kept kissing ever so passionately. Sailor sat in the back, holding her almond milk. Sailor liked seeing them kiss. She liked seeing their relationship blossom in an ever so wondrous manner.
It was later at night now, as Wilma laid in the master bed, thinking of just how lucky she was to have Fred as a husband. He was the perfect husband. She'd found all that she needed to find, in him. Wilma smiled, gently. A rustle was heard as Fred took off his clothes, and tie. He came over to the bed, climbing into bed, crawling over to Wilma, as Wilma laid, upright. Fred smiled, upon seeing her, as she smiled upon seeing him. They touched fingers, fingertips, as they lay, kissing. Fred crawled over her. They began kissing. Just kissing. They felt the love, the passion, the amazement, the ecstasy as they kissed. Fred gazed at Wilma, as Wilma gazed at Fred. They went in, kissing again.
They enjoyed one another's company, kissing. Wilma, even if she did feel the labors of pregnancy, felt truly relieved by Fred's company. They kissed. Fred's reproductive organ lightly brushed Wilma's, although it didn't make contact, or press in. They just kissed, feeling love. Wilma felt glad to be with Fred. Fred, Wilma.
As they kissed, Wilma asked about Sailor, who was in the next room. "mmm, how was she?". Wilma whispered. "Was she ok?". "she was fine". Fred said. "she was tired, so she went right to sleep". "She didn't have troubles, did she?". Wilma asked in a whisper. "she was fine". Fred said. "mm, I might go in, and sit with her until she falls asleep". Wilma whispered. "That last part's covered". Fred said. "mm, well". Wilma whispered. They went back to kissing for a while, although, Wilma waited for Fred to fall asleep to do as she pleased.
Sailor sat in her room, getting ready to fall asleep, looking down at her book. When she became disdained with that, she simply put her book down.
Wilma came into the room, after knocking, holding a bowl of vanilla ice cream for Sailor. "Sweetie, I thought you might enjoy something sweet, and cool after our big dinner". Wilma said, gently. She gave the ice cream to Sailor.
"Thank you". Sailor said. "I…I I…I really like it". "always dear". Wilma said, kindly. "I know things are a bit hard right now, but you have been so strong". "Thank you for being my faith". "Ok, you're welcome". Sailor said.
"Did you enjoy dinner this evening?". Wilma asked, gently. "I know that's one of your favorite spots". "I liked it a lot". Sailor said. "I feel better because I had spaghetti with spicy marinara". "But I had it with you which made it better".
"Sweetie, I feel happy you see it that way". Wilma said, gently. "you are my greatest gift, I will always appreciate our friendship, and our tenacity". "we are invincible". Wilma smiled, gently. "Can we tell people the story of us as friends?". Sailor asked. "Of course". Wilma said, gently. "Perhaps we can document it, and sell it to whomever wishes to peruse it". "We'll make a fortune everywhere we go".
"best friends". Sailor said. "Of course, best friends, always". Wilma said, gently. "Even though there is a bit of change that's happening to the both of us, our love will still stay strong". "We'll be even livelier, now that we have one another at our side". "I know". Sailor said. "my hero". Wilma said, kissing Sailor's cheek, and forehead, all around. "bestie". Wilma smiled, nuzzling Sailor. "Eskimo kisses". Wilma said, gently. She and Sailor touched noses. "Thank you". Sailor said. "for being there for me". "Always, sweetheart". Wilma said, gently.
Sailor went to bed that night feeling comforted, feeling hopeful that tomorrow would be a newer day forward, with newer family.