LOOKING FORWARD TO LOOKING BACK
THE MIND'S EYE
It was a chilly April day in Middle Park Colorado and Stan had invited Kyle along with him and his family to the Middle Park Spring Street Carnival taking place over the next two weeks. Due to unforeseen circumstances in which Stan and Kyle found themselves in New York City last week, they had not been able to attend the carnival. Today however would be their lucky day. Kyle had stayed the previous night over so as soon as the family had breakfast, they were on their way. Once the family entered the park they were given specific instructions by Sharon to meet near the Smokin' Pig BBQ pit at 11 for lunch. She then gave the kids $30 each to spend (Kyle's parents had given him the same amount before he left yesterday) and they all went on their way. So far Stan had enjoyed himself immensely with Kyle, eating junk food, exploring odd little shops set out, and playing lame carnival games, even winning a cool blue stuffed monkey at a Skee-Ball style game. They all met up for lunch at twelve as instructed before Sharon insisted all five of them do some 'family bonding' by playing some games together. This was all fine overall for Stan. Lame but he had fun with his parents since his mom wanted to do something with him and his dad wasn't too drunk (yet). At 1 P.M. everyone scattered to do their own thing again.
At 3 P.M. Shelley had just gotten back from the art gallery that was set up at the carnival when her phone buzzed. She looked down to see who it was.
Mom: Start looking for the boys Shelley. We are about to leave. Meet you at the front gates soon.
Shelley growled; the last thing she wanted to do was locate the turd and his turd friend! Sometimes being the oldest had its drawbacks, one of those being the one responsible to go looking for their stupid younger siblings and if she couldn't find them she would be the one who was yelled at. And so she began hunting for Stan and Kyle, knowing they were probably doing something stupid or being somewhere they weren't supposed to. Well she wasn't about to walk all around the fair grounds for the two. She went to send a text to Stan asking him where he was. Stan answered back nearly five minutes later with 'at the Candy Apple Tower'. Shelley rolled her eyes and sent the text 'Mom and Dad are leaving soon. Meet us at gate. Turd.' A minute later she felt her phone ring. She went to answer it, it was her mother.
"What Mom?" Shelley answered the phone.
"Shelley, I'm sorry but your father and I might be a little late. Your father downed a vat of beer out of another patron's mug at the bar and got into a fist fight with the man. We are at the security office waiting to see the damage. He might be arrested and off to jail, I'm not sure yet what is happening."
"So I'm stuck at this stupid fair until Dad is or is not arrested?"
"I'm sorry honey. But try locating your brother, he's your responsibility for right now. Hopefully I can get back to you soon."
Hopping mad now, Shelley hung up and stuffed her phone back in her small purse. No sooner had she done this did she see Stan and Kyle's stupid faces walking towards her.
"Where's Mom and Dad?" Stan asked, biting into an apple covered in caramel and Butterfinger chunks.
"Apparently Dad was arrested for getting into a drunken fight with someone. Mom is with him at security. They don't know how long it will be."
"Sweet, that means we can go off and catch that one trapeze show in ten minutes," Kyle smiled.
"No you stupid turds. Mom said you're my responsibility now until they get back."
"Aw-aww! Can't we just sit in the car at that point then?"
"Trust me; I'm pissed off about it too. But don't run off and do something stupid because I'll be the one that gets in trouble for it," Shelley thrusted a thumb to herself.
Stan rolled his eyes as he took another bite of his sticky treat. "I guess we can do something to pass the time until Mom and maybe Dad, show up."
"No turd, I'm not doing anything with you. Go stare at the grass for all I care. I'm going to go over to that bench"- Shelley pointed a bench across from her, some fifty feet away. "-and sit and go on my phone."
Stan glared. "Fine. Bitch."
Shelley made a move to hit him but seemed to think the energy would be wasted and pulled her fist back. She turned around to walk towards the bench but then a smell caught her attention. It almost smelled slightly sweet. She turned her head to the right to see a small enclosed tent not too far that appeared to be giving off the aroma. Now that she was a few feet from it she could detect hints of apple and cinnamon coming from inside.
"Shelley, do you have a spare charger on- what's up?" Stan asked, coming to a stop behind her, Kyle right behind him.
Shelley said nothing, just nodded to the tent in front of her.
"What?" Stan looked ahead to see that his sister was standing in front of a tent with lush striped maroon tapestries with all kinds of chimes and beads adorning the sides. On top of the tent was a sign reading: Madam Kismet's Psychic Readings, with a small chalkboard set up by the entrance: Services included- fortune, tarot, horoscopes, and crystal healing. Stan gave his sister a look. "You can't seriously be thinking of going in there."
Shelley turned around now as if just now noticing he was there. "Wow, having your fortune told. I've never had an expert tell me my fortune before."
"That's because they're all bogus and frauds," Stan stated as wrapped up the remainder of his candy apple and placed it in his backpack.
"Shut-up turd! I bet this Madam Kismet is the real deal and can tell me all sorts of things about my future and love life."
Stan was tempted to say 'you'll have no love life in the future' but stopped himself, knowing this time she probably wouldn't hesitate to hit him.
"I'm going in," Shelley declared.
"Oh come on Shelley, it would be a waste of time," Stan argued and turned around to look at Kyle. "Kyle?"
Kyle checked his phone now and shrugged. "I mean why not? We have some time to kill. Who knows, it could be kind of cool."
"They're all fake though. I didn't spend all that effort trying to disprove that douche John Edwards for nothing. Nobody has special 'psychic or medium' powers. It's just a scam."
"So what if it is? Knowing your dad he might be locked in some holding cell for hours. This might be a fun way to kill some time."
Shelley looked at him before stepping towards the tent. "I don't give a fuck what you do Stan. I'm having my fortune told."
"Yeah, me too," Kyle joined her into the tent.
Stan stood outside it for a couple seconds before the cold air outside made him shiver. Cursing under his breath, Stan pulled back the thick curtains into the little booth, immediately enveloped by warmth. And the smell of apples.
"Good afternoon children. What brings you in today?" spoke a voice sitting at a small round table.
Stan looked at the woman. She wore the typical fortune-teller garb. A beige dress with a purple vest and accessories, a red bandana pulling back her curly blond hair. She had piercing blue eyes and red nail polish. She looked to be in her 40s. There was also the typical crystal ball in front of her. The only thing Stan noted that seemed to be missing from her appearance was a wart on her nose or something.
"Can you tell me my fortune?" Shelley rushed, looking excited.
"Why certainly. After all, I am Madam Kismet, the wondrous Mystical Eye of Colorado. Many a person that seeks wisdom or a look into the future come to me. And I help guide them in the path that is destined for them," Madam Kismet spoke in a light and airy tone.
"Uh-huh…" Stan raised a brow as he looked about the small room. It was decked out in all kinds of odd figurings and objects, crystals of various shapes and sizes, a shelf of boards and cards he knew were not for some regular board game, astrological charts, and some sort of incense burning towards the front. There was also a small stack of books off to the side with the woman's face on it. There didn't appear to be any actual credentials like one might find in a doctor or dentist office. So what made this person 'legit'?
"I want to hear my future. I want to know who I end up falling in love with," Shelley sounded eager.
"We must have patience my child," Madam Kismet held up a hand, causing Shelley to scoff. She looked to the boys now. "And what brings you boys into my services today?"
"Shouldn't you already know that?" Stan couldn't help but ask.
"Shut-up snot-nosed turd! I'm having my fortune told," Shelley took up a seat at the table and looking at the woman. "That's my stupid brother and his stupid friend. You can ignore them however."
"Hey I'm not stupid, I get straight A's!" Kyle argued back.
"Madam Kismet, can you tell me my future? What job will I have? Who do I marry?" Shelley asked again.
"In due time my dear. Kyle? Would you like to take a seat as well?" Madam Kismet offered.
"Wow… how did you know my name?" Kyle asked as he pulled up a chair.
"Well it appears all that is left… is you. Stanley. Would you like to sit and hear your future as well?"
Stan was still standing near the front, sending off a few texts to his mom but no answer. Figuring he really had no choice now, and actually feeling a little weirded out this lady knew all their names, he took up a chair.
"Okay fine. But only because our parents haven't called back yet," Stan informed the woman.
"But I don't want to hear the stupid turd monster's lame future. I want to know about my own love life. And if I'll be rich."
"I want to know what career path I take," Kyle spoke up.
Madam Kismet nodded at these requests. "Stanley? Is there a specific area in your future you would like to explore?"
Stan rubbed his arm now as he thought. "Well, kind of. I mean, I can't help but wonder who I end up marrying. See, I have a girlfriend. Well, she's my on and off girlfriend. We're trying to work things out now and I can't help but wonder if things work out for us. Say, when we're twenty. But it doesn't matter, this is all bullcrap anyway," Stan frowned again, a stubborn 'no' on his face, set.
"Ahh, but in order to see and gaze into the future one must have an Open Eye. How else can one truly dream or make anything a reality if their Eye is closed?" Madam Kismet said wisely.
Stan rolled his eyes. "Fine. I'll try to 'have an Open Eye'," waved his hands about sarcastically.
"Stan, I much prefer your sugar highs than when you start to get real bitchy. Maybe you need to finish up that candy apple of yours," Kyle noted.
"Shut-up. Deep-fried asparagus freak. Who the hell goes to a fair just to eat deep-fried veggies?" Stan looked around.
"Are we doing this thing or not?" Shelley pounded a fist on the desk.
Madam Kismet nodded. "Very well. Only because your futures… align in such a way. You are separate but together. And fate brings you together and leads you on the paths most suited for you."
Madam Kismet began to run her hands over her crystal ball now. Colors began to swirl around inside. "Yes. Yes I am sensing something now. The date… August… tenth. The year is 2029…."
Kyle did quick math. "That's in eight years. Oh cool, is this when I get into college?"
"Shut-up turd! I want to hear about my future husband!"
Stan looked down at his phone to see if his mom replied back. Nothing yet. Madam Kismet was swirling her hands over her crystal ball now, Stan could almost feel some kind of warmth coming from the object. The colors began to get clearer and clearer before it almost looked as if he were watching a small television screen.
"Watch, let us gaze into the future's Eye. Watch and listen children…" Madam Kismet instructed.
August 10th, 2029 Boulder Colorado
7 AM and the sound of beeping made the figure in the bed on the left side of the dormitory stir. Kyle's hand found his phone on his small bedside table and he turned off his alarm. He suddenly shot up from his bed, a wild mane of red hair moving in all directions as he did so.
"Oh wow, is that me?" ten-year-old Kyle gasped.
"Probably some pre-recorded actor that looks like you," Stan retorted.
"Children, listen and watch," Madam Kismet said sternly.
His first day of University! Kyle couldn't help but feel excited, he had always been one to enjoy school and college was something he had been looking forward to for years. Of course he missed life in his hometown of South Park but it was time for change, it was time to reinvent himself and do something for no one but himself. Of course it was difficult for his mother to say goodbye to him days ago but he needed this. He needed to be on his own and live that college life in a dormitory at The University of Boulder, at least for the next four years. Kyle looked over to the other side of the dorm where his roommate, Matt, still slept. He had only met him two days ago and didn't know his schedule yet. Kyle chose to place his classes throughout the morning and afternoon hours. He had been getting up early for school since he was five, he was used to it. It would also give him the night to study and do anything else he wanted.
Kyle quickly got dressed and packed up his backpack before hurrying over to the dining hall to pick up something for breakfast. He didn't eat much of his bagel, still anxious about how his day would go. In truth he felt impatient already with his learnings; he already knew he wanted to go into the medical field and get his doctorate in medicine, he just didn't know the exact kind of doctor he wanted to be. He wished he could just hop into medical school but he had to take at least four years of college before he could get into medical school. Kyle decided he would get his Bachelor's in biochemistry since science courses were very important if one wanted to become a doctor.
Ten year-old Kyle and Stan shared a look.
"I- I become a doctor?" Kyle's face broke into a huge grin.
"Pff, no surprise there. Are you gonna fix up my broken leg Dr. Kyle?" Stan couldn't help but smirk.
"Where's my husband in all this?" Shelley questioned.
Madam Kismet held up a hand to signal for them to quiet down and to continue to watch.
Kyle was one of the first students that found his way to the classroom for General Physics 1. As he took his seat he looked around, noticing the unsure looks on at least half the classes' faces. The professor began introducing himself to the class but was interrupted when the very last student stepped in late.
"I'm so sorry, got lost," the young woman said and sat down in the last available seat, next to Kyle.
Kyle's eyes went wide as soon as he saw her. She had a head full of beautiful curly blond hair and a pretty face. She smiled at him and he gave her a stupid grin back. A half hour into class the professor had the students break off into groups to work on some basic physics problems. Kyle was put into a group with the other four people that were sitting at the same row of tables he was at. Since this was the first day of class general introductions were expected from everyone.
"I'm Meghan Tressel. I'm from Fort Collins and majoring in Biomedical Engineering," the curly-haired blonde spoke to the group.
It took a moment for Kyle to realize what was happening until another guy in the group shoved him.
"Dude, wake up. Who the hell are you?"
"Huh? Oh, sorry. Um, I'm Kyle Broflovski and come from South Park. I'm getting my BA in Biochemistry before I go off to medical school."
"South Park? No kidding," smiled the young man that had shoved him.
"Why?"
"Nothing, I just know that it's been in the news far more often than you would think a town no one knows about would be. Are the stories true?"
"What stories?" Kyle looked annoyed.
"I dunno, did Michael Jackson really live there for a brief time? Did a giant mutant boy destroy the town? What about that time some Native Americans tried buying out your town?"
Kyle sighed as he twirled a pen in his hand. "Yes, it's all true."
The others said 'sweet' and 'cool'. Meanwhile Meghan hadn't said much else. She still looked unsure of herself and didn't seem to notice Kyle looking at her. No doubt it would be a little difficult to pay attention in class if she was going to be sitting next to him the entire semester. He didn't need any distractions, and a pretty girl was the last thing he needed. The college life was already proving to be new and exciting for him, he could only hope that his very best friend was having just as productive of a day.
Present Day
Fog began to swirl around in the crystal ball and the scene ended. Madam Kismet looked at the three kids as they looked at one another.
"So cool, I go on to medical school," Kyle said in awe.
"Maybe you don't though, that was just a scene from your first day of college. Maybe something happens and you end up not going on to medical school," Stan spoke. Man, maybe he did need to finish up his candy apple, he didn't know why he was being so negative today. "Hey, Kyle, did you find that Meghan girl hot just now though? What if she becomes your wife later on?"
"I don't really care about that. I mean yeah, she was kind of cute. But I want to know more about my time in college. Medical school. You know, the fun stuff," Kyle shrugged.
"That was a waste of time. I want to see my future," Shelley crossed her arms.
"Shelley my dear, patience will get you far in life. But you must be accepting of how the future plays out, you cannot rush what might be in store," Madam Kismet spoke.
"So uhh, how'd you do that just now? Is there some kind of little screen in there projecting this stuff?" Stan leaned in to look at the crystal ball.
"I cannot reveal how the Future Mind's Eye works Stanley. What is to be will be, I am only showing what wants to reveal itself to you," Madam Kismet placed both hands upon the table now. Not angry, just giving him a calm and curious expression.
Stan was a little more intrigued now but tried to hide it. He rubbed his elbow. "Um, so what else is there? Is there another little film in there with some actor that looks like me? Showing me if Wendy and I end up together?"
The ball began to glow slightly and colors began to swirl around, gaining speed.
"The Future Mind's Eye speaks again. Let us lean in and see what it has to say…"
August 10th, 2029 South Park
Seventeen-and-a-half year old Stan woke to his phone going off at 8 AM. He stared up at his ceiling for a minute before getting up and getting dressed. He grabbed his backpack and went downstairs for breakfast. His parents were both at work by this point. He poured himself some cereal and ate slowly. Today was going to blow. He had never been a big fan of school and was only good at a couple subjects. He debated not even going to college after high school but his parents insisted he had to. There were many times Stan though his talents in football, baseball, or guitar was enough to get him far in life but nothing had happened yet. Plus, he didn't want to play a sport professionally; it was just something fun to do. He worked part time at The Sandwich Kingdom and wanted to do more than make sandwiches all day in a cheesy medieval style getup so he had to go to college. He would be attending Middle Park Community College which was thirty minutes out of town. He had no idea what he would major in; he figured he'd find out after taking a few classes.
Ten-year-old Stan frowned.
"Aww man, I'm already a loser," he commented.
Shelley pointed and laughed. "Serves you right Stan. You sucking at sports and music is perfect. You amount to nothing."
"I'm sure I do something with my life! More than you ever would," Stan argued back.
"I'm sure you get a degree in something cool Stan. You do have a lot of talents and interests already," Kyle offered.
Madam Kismet held up her hand to stop their conversation and to continue to watch.
Another thing weighing in on Stan's mind was the fact that his on and off girlfriend, Wendy Testaburger was taking the same path as Kyle in that she was off to a prestigious college to further her education. Wendy had been accepted to the University of Chicago and had left a week ago too. The two had had some disagreements over the last few months of high school about college. Wendy knew she wanted to get into political science and maybe even law, and the University of Chicago was ranked as one of the best schools to get a degree in those fields. Stan however never saw himself as getting a degree in any particular field. Wendy wanted him to go out there with her but he found it pointless. There was no way he was going to have his parents fork over thousands of dollars to a school he simply did not belong in. Not to mention it wasn't as if it were easy to get into any college or university of his choosing anyway. Middle Park College really was the only option for him. Anyone was accepted there. Wendy finally told him she understood his reasoning for not going to Chicago with her and instead told him they would try out a long-distance relationship.
"Oh no…" ten-year-old Stan nosebridgepinched.
So far the long-distance relationship thing was working. The two would Facetime each other every day right after dinner and share their life for that day. Wendy had already told him all the wonderful things at Chicago U, her roommate, and a couple new friends she had met as well as all the amazing buildings and features of the school. Stan's highlights of the day? He got an oil change. Old Man Jim came into the sandwich shop and got pickles on his sandwich today instead of pepperchinis. They painted the street markings at Henry's Market. Not nearly as exciting as what Wendy was reporting back.
"Aww man, Wendy is off at another nice school too? And I'm stuck in South Park?" ten-year-old Stan moaned.
"Hey, at least it seems things are okay for you two right now. The long-distance thing is working out," Kyle offered, trying to make his friend see some light in his pathetic start of the future.
Stan met up with a handful of familiar faces when he arrived at Middle Park Community College, no doubt Middle Park was where South Park residents ended up if they didn't have a clear path for themselves yet. He would only be taking two classes at a time since he had to go to work after. His first class was at 9 AM, English 1A. He played on his phone as he sat in the class before someone took a seat next to him with a-
"Hiya Stan!"
"Huh? Oh, hey Butters."
"So, taking English with Mrs. Gibbs too?"
"Obviously."
Stan could feel Butters' eyes on him the next two minutes as he looked at his phone.
"What?"
"Oh, nothing. Say, you think this class is going to be any different than it was in high school?"
Stan shrugged.
"I hope it's not too different. I usually did a pretty good job in high school. Did you meet anyone familiar so far? I saw Red in the dining hall when I went to get some breakfast. Also Ashley Lemmings. Remember her from high school? She was pretty popular but she said 'hi' to me sometimes. I haven't seen many others yet."
Stan didn't answer.
"Stan?"
"What you little gaywad?"
Butters glared at him now. "I just want to make con-conversation. Seeing as you're one of the few friendly guys I know and no one else here looks familiar."
Stan sighed and turned off his cell. "Sorry, I'm just a little annoyed today. Changes I guess you could say."
"Is this because Kyle left?"
Stan opened his mouth but quickly shut it. "He didn't leave. He's only at Boulder U. He'll come back in four years."
Thankfully their professor was running behind and had not yet shown up so they continued their conversation.
Butters rubbed his hands together. "Will he though? It sounds as if- as if he has some big plans for himself. Plans that I don't know South Park has to offer."
Stan made a fist which he contained in his other hand. "It's just that- well, I'm not used to this. I know it's only been four days or some shit since he left but I've never gone to school without him there. He's off at some highly rated school getting a degree in bio-whatever the hell it is. Then he's going to go to medical school and who knows where that will be or how long that will take. Then he'll get his wish and become some rich successful doctor." Stan glared at his hands.
Butters touched Stan on his shoulder, causing him to flinch.
"You think he's going to forget all about you Stan?"
Thankfully at that moment Donna Gibbs arrived and began her introduction to the class. Part of the reason Stan was on edge was indeed what Butters had said, he might get left behind and forgotten by Kyle. How could he not? His best friend was going to be in school for the next ten years it seemed, plenty of time to meet new people and move all around the country if he wanted. Even as little kids Stan knew Kyle would probably pursue bigger dreams than he and at the time, he was fine with it. Now the day had come and he didn't know if he was taking it so well. The other thing weighing in on Stan's brain was the dread of staying forever in South Park. Of course he felt pride in his little town but he was practically an adult now, he wanted change. He didn't want to live and die in the same fucked-up town he was born in. But he didn't know what kind of change he wanted. He didn't have a major and feared no subjects would ever catch his eye and he'd quit college altogether. Then what? He wanted to move out of his parents' house sometime in the near future too but looking at the money he had saved, it wasn't going to happen until he was thirty. Life had barely begun but already Stan was hesitant of the future.
Present Day
Kyle gave Stan a sad look. He had a hand on his shoulder.
"Stan, you know I would never forget about you. Even if I go on to a different school and medical school and become a doctor. I would never leave you behind in all that," he said sincerely.
Ten-year-old Stan could feel his eyes burn for some reason. He dabbed at the back of his right eye quickly. "You can go on and do whatever the hell you want Kyle. I don't care. We aren't married."
"I know but we're best friends. Super Best Friends. I don't want you to ever feel as if I'm going to desert you. Not after everything we've been through."
Shelley rolled her eyes, arms crossed and very annoyed. "You stupid gay dweebs. Maybe neither of you find a girlfriend in the future, I wouldn't want to be with s man so dependent on his best friend."
"You don't even find anyone in the future! That's why we haven't seen anything yet," Stan pointed out.
"Okay, we've seen my stupid little brother's future and his friend's. What about me?" Shelley pounded a fist to the small round table.
Madam Kismet looked at the ball as the colors calmed down again.
"The Future Mind's Eye acts on its own accord. It does not wish to reveal your life as of yet Shelley."
"Proof it's fake then. They don't have any pre-recorded footage of some lady that looks like Shelley so we aren't going to see anything for your future. Sucks for you," Stan commented, looking at his phone now.
Mom: Sorry it's taking so long kids. The police just took your father to jail. Waiting there now. Stay together, all 3 of you. Will pick you up before the fair closes.
"What is it?" Shelley noticed her brother's expression change.
"Dad's at jail now. Mom is waiting around there now. Said she'll pick us up before the fair closes. Stay together. God damnit."
Just then the crystal ball sprang to life again, colors swirling and swirling.
"The Future Mind's Eye Speaks again. Let us gaze and see what it wants to show us," Madam Kismet announced.
Kyle looked at Stan and Shelley and shrugged.
"I mean, we have time to kill. Might as well," Kyle offered.
Sighing, Stan put his phone away and looked down into the scene now unfolding inside the ball.
"The date has changed my children. It is now October 4th, 2029…"
October 2029, Boulder
It was a chilly morning and Kyle was currently in the dining hall eating breakfast before class. He had finally gotten the courage to ask Meghan out. He was going to pull her aside after class today and hoped she would say yes. Kyle wasted no time telling Stan all about the pretty girl he sat next to in general physics a week after class had begun. Stan told him he should make a move before someone else did if he felt so strongly about her. Of course this was easy for Stan to say, he had dated more than him and he already had his eyes out for his future wife. Kyle knew he wanted to get married one day as well but knowing he had so many years of school ahead of him it wasn't his priority. He just wanted someone nice and if things led themselves to a future, great. And so he sat in the dining hall, whispering potential conversations to himself as he ate his oatmeal.
"Ha! Looks like you suck at love," ten-year-old Stan pointed out.
"Shut it! Let's just see how long your relationship with Wendy lasts this time dick," Kyle shoved him.
Stan shut his lip and pouted.
"So Meghan, I noticed you like science. So do I. No that's stupid. Um, hey Meghan, can I take a look at your notes? I forgot to take them. No, she'd never believe that," Kyle growled. "Meghan, I just wanted to tell you I think you're pretty. Hell no, talk about being blunt! Meghan, can I walk you to your next class?" Kyle growled and rubbed his eyes. "Ugh, who am I kidding? This is just something I have to do, no imaginary conversation will help. Damnit…"
Kyle didn't have long to worry about conversations- Meghan Tressel was standing across from him at his table.
"Hi Kyle, I knew it was you, I can spot your hair across the school!"
Kyle gave off a sheepish grin.
"Can I sit next to you? I mean, I'd rather sit next to someone I know than by myself."
"S-sure, go ahead," he squeaked. He watched as she poured granola over her yogurt parfait. "So, um, you like the yogurt parfaits too?"
Stan laughed out loud. "Damn! Talk about horrible ice-breaker!"
"I said shut the fuck up Stan!"
Meghan smiled at Kyle. "I love the yogurt parfaits. I just love yogurt no matter what. I'm actually pretty boring with food, or so people say. I like all the healthy things a lot of people don't touch. One of my favorite things is throwing fruit or veggies on the grill."
"Do you? That sounds really good actually. Heh, I'm a bit of a lame food eater too, or at least my best friend thinks so. I can snack on a handful of almonds and be happy while he downs a bag of Doritos."
Ten-year-old Stan and Kyle looked at one another. Kyle was smiling.
"Looks like my horrible ice-breaker is working after all, isn't it Stan?"
"I do not eat a bag of Doritos in one sitting," Stan argued back.
"You do so. Now hurry this story up so I can get to my own love life!" Shelley rushed.
Meghan laughed and Kyle felt his body grow warm all over.
"So how is it really? Living in South Park? Is it as crazy as our classmates were making it out to be?"
"Well it can get pretty crazy, I won't lie about that. But it is where I grew up so I can't fault it too much. It's a nice place to be if you don't want to live the bustling city life. It's home. But I'm kind of looking forward to seeing where I end up after all this schooling is over. What about you? Where did you grow up?" Kyle was finding it very easy to converse with her, he forgot about asking her out as he spoke.
"I spent a few years in Utah before my parents moved my three brothers and I to Fort Collins."
"Wow, three brothers?"
Meghan smiled. "Yep, and I'm the baby amongst the family so you can say they're pretty protective of me."
"Damn. I have one brother, well two actually. Both from different mothers. My parents adopted my little brother Ike when he was a baby from Canada."
"From Canada? How neat," Meghan smiled at him.
Kyle gave off half a grin as he continued. "My- my other brother… well, I've known him longer than Ike. Since I was four and he was three and a half. His name is Stan. We've grown up together. Been best friends since preschool."
Ten-year-old Stan and Kyle smiled at each other at this.
Meghan set aside her finished yogurt. "Wow, since preschool? That's impressive; I don't know anyone from that age."
"Small town, ya know," Kyle shrugged.
The two continued to chat for a few more minutes before they decided it best to start walking to their class. They were halfway to the building when Kyle decided to go forth with his plan. It couldn't wait until after class.
"Say, Meghan, I- I was wondering… um, if you aren't doing anything Saturday… would you like to get a bite to eat somewhere together? Off campus?"
"Oh! Oh my…" Meghan stopped walking, clearly caught off guard.
"It doesn't have to be anything romantic. Just a casual lunch or something. I have a car so we could… could go wherever…" Kyle could feel his heart beating madly as he spoke.
"I'm so sorry Kyle but I don't think that's a good idea."
Kyle was sure his heart was deflating like a tire now.
"I already have a boyfriend."
"Oh. Okay. That's cool then."
"I don't want to crash your dreams or anything. It's just that Paul and I have been together for over a year. And- and things are really good now. He actually goes to school here too!"
"Right. Right," was all Kyle could say as he looked at his shoes.
"I'm really sorry though. But maybe we can be friends? I like sitting next to you in class. It's always good to have a person in class you can rely on a little," Meghan shrugged.
Kyle looked up, trying not to look too bothered by this news. "Yeah, sure. That's cool."
Meghan continued to look happy as she walked off to class. Kyle meanwhile followed slowly after; no doubt he would find it difficult to concentrate on the first exam that was going to take place in general physics minutes from now.
Present Day
The crystal ball faded away again. Madam Kismet looked at the three children in front of her.
"That was boring, that had nothing to do with me at all," Shelley remarked.
"You must wait for the right time that the Future Mind's Eye wishes to speak to you Shelley," Madam Kismet spoke in her mystical manner.
Stan rubbed his neck. "Dude, Kyle, sorry about Meghan. Guess she's not 'the one' for you."
Kyle shrugged. "I don't really care about that. I just want to see where my schooling takes me. I want to see my actual classes and time spent in college and in medical school. Like I said, that's the cool stuff."
Stan glanced at his phone yet again. Nothing back from his mother. He sighed.
"Guess we can give it another go. If there's some more pre-loaded footage in that ball thingy of yours."
Madam Kismet peered down at the object, 'hmmming'. "I am seeing something. Yes. Yes. It appears this concerns a girl. A girl by the name of- Wendy," she looked into Stan's eyes now.
Stan swallowed, nervous. "Wendy?"
"Do you know this girl Stanley?"
"Well yeah. She's my girlfriend. She's the girl I've been on and off with the past couple years. What happens? Are we still together? You said we try the long-distance relationship thing. Does that work out?"
"You are in inquisitive young man Stanley. But that is a good thing, it is healthy for the mind to continue to ask questions and look for answers," Madam Kisment was smiling at him now.
"He's not inquisitive, he's just a whiny nose little turd that always has to go looking for trouble with his turd friends," Shelley thumbed in his direction.
"Well considering we haven't seen anything from you yet I say my life is a little better than yours at the moment," Stan pointed out.
Madam Kismet made a motion for the three to gather around the crystal ball. "Oh, I am seeing it now. Gaze children, gaze upon the scene unfolding. This is taking place on a very special day. On October the nineteenth, 2029."
"That's my birthday!" Stan gasped. Either one of two things was going to happen- Wendy would bestow well-wishes and greetings on his birthday or she would dump him. He was feeling nervous again.
October 19th, 2029, South Park
Stan couldn't help but wake up in good spirits that day- it was his 18th birthday and his parents had arranged it to be a pretty sweet day indeed. He would have a small family get-together during the day but when evening came, he would be driving out to Denver in a limo with some friends where his parents had purchased a swanky suite in a hotel where the party would really begin. It would be a whatever happens happens kind of deal and he was looking forward to it. He did feel a little gutted that he didn't know if Kyle could make it or not; even though it was a Sunday Kyle told Stan that he had a lot of homework to do.
Not only that but Stan was unsure if Wendy was going to make it out or not too. The two had still been keeping in contact plenty although as the weeks did go by and the heavier workload began for Wendy she hadn't been able to text or call back as frequently as she did during those first two weeks of school. Stan told her that was fine, he understood. He of course had been busy himself with school and work. He only had the two classes but there was still a lot of work, at least to him anyway. Papers due for English had to be formatted in a particular way and be of a certain length or he would be docked points. Right now he was supposed to be writing an eight-page paper on the book The Great Gatsby. He still had three chapters left to read and the paper was due next week. Not only that but he had been made shift lead at The Sandwich Kingdom which meant he had to often close the shop up and sometimes didn't get home until midnight. And so even if Stan was looking forward to his big eighteenth birthday he was a bit on edge not knowing if his best friend and girlfriend would show up at all.
"You two better show up for my eighteenth birthday," Stan commented.
"Sorry dude. Looks like I'm a busy biochemistry major. But I hope I get to show up too," Kyle joked.
Stan had his usual big French toast breakfast and gift-opening at home with his parents and grandparents but when three o'clock hit, it was time to pile into the limo. Cartman, Butters, Kenny, Clyde, Jimmy, Tweek, and Bradley were some of the boys that still lived in South Park so were natural invites, as were some other friends Stan had made when he was in high school from his time spent on the baseball team. In total, there were fifteen boys in the limo when all was said and done.
"Dude, there better be alcohol in the room," Clyde spoke over the music blaring in the limo.
"I don't know, we'll see," Stan yelled back. His parents would be driving ahead of the limo to get the suite ready and knowing his dad…In truth, Stan didn't know if he wanted there to be any or not. He wasn't righteous in any way in that he vowed he wouldn't drink until he was legally allowed to at age 21, it was for the simple fact that the last time he messed with alcohol, things didn't go so well. During one of his worst depressive moments of life shortly after turning ten, he was forced into drinking, which he then began to do voluntarily. He faced one of his worst groundings from his parents after they found out, and he promised them and himself he would not drink until he felt like he could handle it. This did not mean it had to be age 21, but the fear of getting stupid drunk and not remembering the night before was a bit unnerving. Not to mention waking up hungover just plain sucked.
When they got to the suit the boys spread out to check things the place over. Kenny raced to the kitchen and cheered.
"Dude! Look!" he dragged Stan over and sitting on the kitchen counter was a giant ice chest filled with beer with a card on top reading: Happy big 18th birthday son! Enjoy! Love-Dad.
Stan rolled his eyes but Kenny slapped him.
"C'mon already man! That whole drunk episode of yours was eight years ago. It's time to create better memories associated with alcohol!" with that he cracked open the first bottle.
Many of the others went to swipe a beer as well.
"Dude, you have to go outside! There's a giant-ass Jacuzzi on our private deck! This place is sweet," Cartman said before throwing his stuff on one of the beds, clearly marking it as his own.
It was a great place to party and not care about what was going on. Stan did indeed give in and took a sip of beer. It was horrible at first but he soon found that he had downed the first bottle in very little time. Stan however was getting impatient as to what was taking so long for the food to get there. His mom told him a pizza-delivery man should be by to unload half a dozen pizzas to the suite but so far no one showed. Finally there was a knock at the door.
"Finally," Stan exasperated and opened it up to see a familiar-looking redhead. "Kyle?"
Kyle smiled back and set down the pizzas. "Hey. Apparently they're understaffed at Papa John's. Told you I'd be busy tonight."
Stan beamed wider than he had in weeks and hugged his best friend that he had not seen since the beginning of August.
"You two are such fags," Cartman spoke behind Stan and hurriedly took the pizzas inside.
Stan socked him in the shoulder. "Dude, what the hell?"
"True, I do have a lot to do homework wise but how could I miss your one and only eighteenth man? I wanted to come no matter what, I just didn't know if it should be a surprise or what. But then your mom called me and said I should surprise you by delivering the pizzas."
Stan shook his head, feeling as if life was like it was before everyone turned eighteen however he did poke his head around the hall to see if someone else was there to surprise him too.
"Stan? What is it?"
"Huh? Oh- just wondered if- it's fine. Come in."
It didn't take long for the others to start trashing the place and drinking, and feeling as if he wouldn't be missed too long yet, Stan decided to walk around downstairs in the lobby area to play catch-up.
"So how are things now with that one chick? Meghan?" Stan asked.
Kyle looked bothered at this question but he still answered. "Awkward as hell. Since she shot me down a couple weeks ago we haven't really spoken to each other. She said we can 'be friends' but how can you just 'be friends' with someone you find hot? She actually hasn't sat next to me these past two weeks, sits in the back now. God, I feel horrible about everything."
Stan shrugged as they walked into the small snack and refreshment station of the hotel. "Guess it wasn't meant to be. It sucks but, you'll find someone."
"Pfff, this coming from the man that falls to pieces every time he gets dumped?"
Both ten-year-old Stan and eighteen-year-old Stan glared.
"Speaking of relationships, how are things with Wendy? Did she talk to you at all today?"
"Yeah. Yeah she wished me a happy birthday," Stan said unenthusiastically.
"Okay… and? Are things okay with her? Are you planning on seeing her over winter break or something?"
Stan suddenly became very interested in a bag of Doritos.
"Stan?" Kyle asked again.
Stan sighed and set the bag down. "I don't know. I don't know anything at this point."
Kyle studied his face for a few seconds. "The long-distance thing not working out?"
Stan looked over to see the bored-looking tenant at the snack station counter. He probably wasn't even listening to what they were saying anyway. Stan grabbed hold of his left elbow.
"I was just hoping I'd see her today. That she would come down for a visit for my birthday."
"Oh."
Ten-year-old Kyle gave ten-year-old Stan a sad look and put a hand on his shoulder.
"I get it if she couldn't find the time," Stan rushed in. "But I wish I had heard something from her today besides 'happy birthday'. I sent her a few texts but so far nothing."
"Stan, I'm really sorry about that man. Really."
Stan shook his head. "It's fine. I'll deal with it. It's my birthday, I want to try and enjoy it. Even though I have a reputation for having a few shitty ones."
Kyle slapped a hand over his back. "Yeah, let's try to enjoy the rest of tonight. There's still a party going on in the room. I don't think anyone is planning on going to sleep anytime soon. Enjoy it. You only turn eighteen once."
"Yeah, true."
The two walked over to the elevator to take the ride up to the sixteenth floor.
"So? Did you get anything sweet for your birthday?" Kyle asked, smiling.
"Well my dad took in my car to get a couple repairs done to it as well as four brand-new tires which was great. Oh! My parents got me tickets to MetalFest in February next year in Denver. Row eight, section 20. Can't wait. Oh, and my mom, heh. Well you know how she likes to sew and knit and stuff. Well she made me a special blanket that I guess she's been working on ever since my first birthday."
"No kidding," Kyle smiled.
"Yeah. I guess for each birthday she made a new section for it. And now, well, it's this big ol' thing with a special design in each section for each birthday I've had so far. It's back home, I'll have to show it to you sometime. She also made me a new hat. Not like I wear mine too often now but. It's one of the ones that I'm going to save, you know?"
Kyle nodded and the two ended up chatting some more in the hall of the floor the suite was on for another thirty minutes before Kenny opened the door, spotted them, and pulled them both in. And the party commenced. The boys had a good time drinking, blaring music, eating, and holding an epic Nerf Gun battle inside. They went out to the deck and into the hot tub, watched scary movies, and later on, when Sharon and Randy arrived with Stan's second birthday cake, sang 'happy birthday' to him before throwing confetti into the air in celebration. Only at three A.M. did things finally wind down and the boys went to sleep. The room had two king-sized beds and Stan shared one of them with Kyle as well as Kenny. Kenny, not used to such a comfortable bed was only too happy to share with the others and fell straight asleep. Other boys were scattered about the sofa and pull-out beds and floor. It really was a good ending to an eighteenth birthday, however the last thing Stan thought of before he drifted off to sleep was the he had to have a talk with Wendy as soon as possible when he woke up.
The scene suddenly shifted to what appeared to be the next day and Stan appeared to be back home and was now sitting at his desk, tapping his hand near his phone, an angry look on his face. Finally he decided to face the bullet and call Wendy.
"Oh god, I can't watch," ten-year-old Stan moaned.
"Ha, you're about to be dumped again. Hopefully that means we get to my love life next," Shelley smirked.
"Maybe you don't get dumped," Kyle suggested.
"I will! I know how this sort of shit goes down Kyle. Wendy and I are having our differences and we're going to argue and I'm going to be some loser wallowing away in my own pain. This is all becoming very familiar I'll have you know!"
Eighteen-year-old Stan waited several long seconds before there was a voice on the other end.
"Stan?" Wendy asked.
"Yes. Stan."
A very heavy pause followed.
"Hi Stan. How are you doing? I'm sorry I"-
"Why didn't you show up for my birthday yesterday Wendy?" Stan cut across.
Wendy sighed heavily. "Stan, it's not that simple."
"Seems fairly simple to me. Why didn't you show? Kyle showed and he's just as busy as you."
"Stan that is completely different. Kyle's circumstances are different than my own," Wendy sounded angry.
"How is it any different? You are both in college going after some pretty big degrees. You both weren't sure if you could make it or not and yet Kyle showed up but you didn't. I want to know why."
There was a couple seconds wait and Stan was sure Wendy was composing herself for her answer.
"Stan, you have to listen to me. I wanted to come down there for your birthday. Don't think for one minute that I didn't want to come. We've been going strong for almost four years now. Why would I miss your birthday?"
Stan huffed at this.
"Don't pout Stan," Wendy scolded. "I would have loved to gone back home for a short visit if I could. But I am so boggled down with school work there was just no way I could get away."
"Kyle has a bunch of school work too Wendy."
"Kyle lives in the same state as you! He's only three hours away. Of course it would be easier for him to come down for a visit! I live in another state Stan. I can't just hop on a plane and fly off whenever I want," Wendy explained.
"Well I would have at least liked to have known that ahead of time Wendy. Instead of waiting around all day yesterday."
"That's not fair Stan. I had to present a big project to a professor, read three chapters in one book, start on an essay for another class. Not to mention attend my Debate Club. I just had too much to do that hoping on a plane to see you for your birthday just didn't fit into my schedule Stan." She paused. "I'm so sorry, that came out wrong," Wendy added.
Stan was now slumped in his chair, one leg out, the other bent as he had his phone pressed to his ear. "I dunno Wendy. I just feel that if I was that important to you then you would have found some way to see me. Maybe not on my actual birthday but sometime this month."
Wendy sounded annoyed and a little defensive now. "Stan, we both agreed before I left that we would and could make it work. You told me that I shouldn't have to go to Middle Park if I didn't want to. That I should go to the college of my choice. And when I was accepted at Chicago you were supportive and happy for me. Why are you acting like this now?"
Stan gave a heavy sigh as he sat up. "I miss you. I haven't seen you at all since you left. I thought- I thought that by now I would have been able to see you. That you would have found time to come down and visit."
Ten-year-old Stan looked to the fortune teller lady, despair on his face. "I don't want to hear any more of this. Can you please not show anymore?" he felt Kyle's hand on his shoulder.
"I cannot control what the Mind's Eye wants to show," Madam Kismet spoke. "It appears It wants to show you these scenes for a specific reason."
"Why? 'It' just wants to get joy in seeing my suffering!"
"Dramatic brat," Shelley sneered.
"Let's play out this scene Stan. Maybe it won't be what you think it might," Kyle offered.
Stan glared and crossed his arms, obviously angry.
Wendy's voice softened. "I thought I'd visit by now too Stan. I really did. But life is so hectic up here now. I have so much homework and school activities. And I need to find time to eat and sleep. I'm sorry, I miss you too and I want to see you. Why can't you fly out and see me?"
Stan glared out his bedroom window. "I'm busy too Wendy. Maybe I'm not at some well-accredited prestigious school as you but I still have school. It's been tough handling two classes and my duties as shift lead at Sandwich King."
"Yes, how is that going anyway?" Wendy tried sounding upbeat.
"It sucks. I have to wear this dorky platinum crown with cheap jewels and am in charge of a bunch of brain-dead idiots. And I'm trying to set money aside to find a place of my own but things keep coming up. Basha got sick the other week so I had to take her to the vet. And since she's my cat my parents expect me to pay for her expenses now," Stan rubbed his eyes.
"Oh cool! I have a cat!" ten-year-old Stan's face brightened.
"I'm sorry Stan. Is she…better?"
"Yeah." Another long and awkward pause. "Wendy, we both said that as long as we can make this long-distance thing work then well, we'd make it work."
It was almost twenty seconds before Wendy spoke up again. "Stan, don't say that…"
"It's obvious it's not working anymore. Maybe it never did."
"Stan…"
"We can't fit time to see each other and don't have the same late-night conversations we used to. It's not working," Stan said dully.
"Stan please. You're just a little upset since your birthday was yesterday. Maybe we can talk in a couple more days. I can try to make it out for Thanksgiving," Wendy sounded exhausted almost.
"What's going to change in a couple more days Wendy? Or on Thanksgiving? It's clear where you stand. I just don't want to continue this anymore if it means one of us is really going to hurt the other one or even six months from now. I don't deserve it. You don't deserve it."
"Stan don't…"
"See? You don't even sound upset. You're tired. And that's okay. I don't want to make this any harder months from now babe." Stan could feel his eyes burn.
"But Stan, we've made it work. This is the longest we've been together," Wendy's voice was emotional as she spoke.
"Yeah we've made it work. And maybe we only work when we're in the same state. The same city. But now that we're miles and miles apart we've both been adjusting to that distance. In our own ways. Maybe it's best to just make that permanent," Stan said heavily.
Wendy didn't speak for another few seconds, and when she did Stan could hear the pain in her voice. "Stan, I don't know how I can go on without you there. I mean all those years together. I don't want to toss it aside."
"You're right, we've had some really great times together. But maybe I always knew it would end this way eventually. You're smart. Really smart. You- you deserve to go wherever life takes you and to be happy. You have that in you Wendy. You can easily become a very important figure in politics or law someday." Stan's lips twitched in spite of himself. "Me? I'm just going to stay in Park County. See where life takes me here. It might not be as grand or exciting but I'm used to it. I'm used to being… average."
"Stan, you aren't average. Don't say that, please," Wendy almost cut across him.
"I am. And I gotta accept it. I'm never going to be some rock star. Or some football or baseball star. It's fine. I make due. It's how it's always been. I always knew even at age ten that you and Kyle would both go on to actual universities and I wouldn't. I gotta grow up and let go."
Ten-year-old Kyle looked over at his best friend now. Stan had just put a hand to his face to stop a tear from rolling down.
"Stan. It doesn't have to be that way. You can get into Boulder U or Chicago. I know you can," Kyle encouraged.
Stan said nothing as he turned back to the crystal ball.
Ten minutes later eighteen-year-old Stan and Wendy finally agreed that ending things was for the best.
"No matter what Stan, I won't ever ever forget you. You still mean so much to me. And I know this isn't goodbye forever. I will make it to Colorado again. Fate will bring us together again in some way," Wendy said in a slightly positive manner.
Stan had to smile even if his eyes burned with tears. "Yeah, yeah that would be nice. I look forward to that day."
"I love you Stan. I always will."
"I love you too Wendy. You have- have a good time in Chicago. I'm cheering you on from my bedroom in my parents' house."
Wendy laughed, Stan smiled. And fog took over as the scene ended.
Present Day
Ten-year-old Stan looked up now, angry.
"What the hell? Why would I want to see that? What was the point in that?"
"It's best not to question"-
"'The Mind's Eye', yeah, whatever. This is a load of bull," Stan cut across the older woman, making air quotations.
"Stan, why can't you at least have some fun with this?" Kyle was now crossing his arms.
"Because there is no way any of this is real!"
"Well what if it isn't? It's still kind of fun to watch. Whoever they got to play older versions of ourselves did a good job. They look and sound just like us," Kyle grinned.
"I agree, this is stupid, I didn't see anything about me," Shelley looked bothered now.
"My apologizes Shelley," nodded Madam Kismet. "As I'm sure I have told you three already, and your bother is so upset with- the Mind's Eye reveals only what It feels is necessary. Your turn is sure to come in due time."
"'In Due Time'? How long do you plan on keeping us hostage in here?" Stan cried out.
"Did Mom ever text you back yet?" Shelley asked her brother.
Stan looked at his phone and shook his head. "No."
Shelley, Stan, and Kyle shared a look with one another and turned to look at Madam Kismet.
"Well, if Mom is still busy I guess we can see a little more…" Stan rubbed his arm.
Madam Kismet smiled and looked to her crystal ball again and all four waited in anticipation for it to become animated once more.
Hello fellow readers! Hope you enjoyed this first chapter. If any of you do remember my Tales of Adulthood story, this is a refreshed and new take on that to keep more in spirit with the actual show itself. So you may already know some information on my version of the boys as adults. But other things may have been changed or added in so I look forward to sharing with you the new version of my adults world as I expand on it myself. Sorry for the lateness of updates, work leaves me too tired to want to write when I get off. But I still love it, and love Stan as much as ever. So I am trying. Just be patient. Please leave a review- it brightens my day! And of course thanks to Nosebridgepinch for helping me during sticky moments as you have been.
Lots of love: Rose, May 20, 2021