Chapter 7

The car pulled up to Marie's house, an old, rickety looking house that sat on a hill overlooking a gas station. Eddy sat outside, smoking, as he saw Ira come over. "hey, sweetheart". He said, grinning a mischievous grin. "hi, Eddy". Ira said, coming over to the porch. "did you have a good day?". "you look tired". Eddy said, kissing Ira on both cheeks. "I'm ok". "Kuki had her ultrasound today, and everyone went". "oh, Kuki Sanban". Eddy said, leaning back on the porch chair. "she's been doing well". "she has". Ira said. "um…did you get Marie pregnant?". "I did". Eddy said. "she's been doing fondly". "I guess". Ira said. "mmm, I didn't see that, earlier". Marie muttered, coming outside. Ira stood in front of the house, looking up at Marie, who had smiled down at her. "hello, love". Marie said in her deep, feminine voice, as Ira drank some of her milk. From what Ira could see, Marie's stomach was getting bigger. Marie kissed Ira on both cheeks, as she stroked Ira's face. "mmm, you look beautiful, darling". Marie said, gently. "did you have a good day?". "kind of". Ira said. "it was ok, I guess". "I just…I just…". "is something bothering you?". Marie asked, kindly. "I just…I…I had a flashback". Ira said.

"mmm". Marie nodded. "I felt like I was going to get hurt again". "I felt like it was my fault that my foster father hurt me". "but, today, I felt like, I felt like I was safe". "I feel like I have a family with Kuki". "I have a family that loves me, and that will protect me, and support me through anything". "I feel safe". Ira said. "Kuki's been there for you through it". Marie said, gently. "yeah". Ira said. "mmm". "do you trust Kuki?". Marie asked. "yes". Ira said. "I know she won't try, and hurt me". "Kuki is very proud of the amazing woman you've become". Marie said. "we all are, very proud of you". "I know". Ira said. "Do you trust your family?". Marie asked. "kind of". Ira said. "I just…I feel like I don't know if they'll try and hurt me". "the reason for that is, your foster family hurt you". Marie said. "that makes it difficult to trust those who love you the most". "yes". Ira said. "I just…I feel like I…I feel like I'm trying". "you're doing well". Marie said. "you love Kuki, mainly because you know she'll keep you safe". "yes". Ira said. "sweetheart". Marie said, stroking Ira's face. "everyone loves you". "you truly are inspiring". "I know my foster family loved me". Ira said. "they were just in darkness". "that's wonderful you forgave them". Marie said. "god showed me how". Ira said.

"God has been a compass for you ever since you came from your foster family". Marie said. "yes". Ira said. "I understand you believe God will protect you". Marie said. "although, you should know, the people who love you most will protect you". "so, Kuki will protect me?". Ira asked. "she will". Marie said. "there are people who love you, and will keep you safe". "there is good in the world". "I know". Ira said. "do you trust me?". Marie asked. Her lips moving with every word spoken. "I know you won't hurt me". Ira said. "that's wonderful". Marie said. "I love you, of course I would never hurt you". "I know". Ira said. "mmm". Marie felt the expanding, and contracting of her stomach, as her uterus experienced a sharp pain or two, here or there. Marie's lips pursed, as she took Ira's hands in hers. "in what ways would your foster family hurt you?". "my foster father would try to stab me, and kill me". Ira said, looking downward. "he'd hit me with a brick, and try to kill me if I made noise". "he'd beat me until I was bloody when he was angry". "sometimes, he would try to choke me". "he growled at me if I made noise". "he stabbed me". "he burned me". "I almost died". Ira said, sniffling, as tears came to her eyes. "it's been painful for you". Marie said. "yes". Ira said. "I never had a family that loved me, or tried to keep me safe". "I was never taught right from wrong". "I never had a normal childhood". "I'm not smart". "the only person I can rely on is myself". "hmmm". Marie hummed a soft, comforting hum. "right now, there's a family who loves you, and wants to help you grow into the amazing woman you truly are". "I know". Ira said. "when we trust, we let the pain that held us back, go". Marie said. "you trust your family". "the ones who love you". "I guess". Ira said. "Are you willing to try something?". Marie asked. "yes". Ira said. "let's close our eyes". "just relax, take a deep breath, think of something comforting". Marie said. Ira closed her eyes, breathing deeply, as Marie rubbed Ira's hands. Ira thought of Kuki, and her family. She also thought of the awards she won, and the much praise she received. Ira let her sorrows melt away, as she felt safety, and security with Marie.

Marie's backhand brushed Ira's face, as Ira's heart began beating rapidly. Ira let out a cry, as Marie calmed her by tickling her face. Ira sat, trying to calm down, as Marie kept brushing her face. Marie hummed softly, as Ira relaxed. "can I have some milk?". Ira asked. "of course, sweetheart". Marie said. Ira then drank her milk, as Marie kissed her cheek. "you are my special girl". "I will always love you, my amazing inspiration". "I know". Ira said. Her time with Marie was proving to be comforting, and effective.

Later that night, Ira had her Chipotle, and was sitting outside with Kuki and Wally. "mm". "I feel somewhat sore". Kuki said, drinking her "Izze", drink. "Do you need to call off tomorrow, or…?". Wally asked. "it's not that bad". Kuki said. "my stomach feels $$$$ed". "you were the one who wanted to see what the gender was". Wally said. "your parents weren't bad today". "they're fine". Kuki said. "they barely reacted when I told them". "they didn't care". Wally said. "that's because they have an active sex life". "sure". Kuki said. "I'm surprised they're not pregnant". Wally smoked some from his vape pen, as Ira heard their conversation. "baby". Kuki said, brushing Ira's face, as Ira drank her cranberry juice. "you need to take some medicine". "do you need more cranberry juice?". "no, I'm ok". Ira said. "mm, I love you". Kuki said, kissing Ira's cheek. "I know". Ira replied. She went in, getting some cranberry juice, as Nalana came outside. "ku-ki". "ku-ki". Nalana said. "hi, baby". Kuki smiled at Nalana as she smiled, giggling. "do you want some juice?". "ju". "ju". Nalana pointed. "let's get some juice". Kuki said, gently, as she grabbed the container of cranberry juice from the fridge.

Nalana drank her cranberry juice, hugging Kuki. "ba ba". "ba ba". Nalana pointed. "there is a baby". Kuki said, smiling. "he'll be your new baby brother". "b aba". Nalana said, laying against Kuki's stomach. "do you want to give him a kiss?". Kuki asked. Nalana kissed Kuki's stomach, as she laid against it. "ba bu". "ba bu". Nalana said. "he loves you too". Kuki said, smiling. "we have to put Ivanov to bed". Kuki said. "we'll get to read bedtime story". "Goodnight moon". "ba bu bu". Nalana pointed. "yep, Goodnight Moon". Kuki smiled. "let's go get Ivanov". "It's bedtime". "b aba b aba b aba". Nalana pointed. "time for bed". Kuki said, gently. "we'll play with toys tomorrow". Nalana went outside with Kuki, as she picked up, Ivanov. "eee". "eee". "eee". Ivanov said, reaching out for his toy. "it's time for bed". Kuki said, gently. "we'll play tomorrow". "tomorrow, you have school". Ivanov laid his head against Kuki's shoulder, as Nalana followed her in the back bedrooms. "ooo". "ooo". "ooo". Ivanov said, reaching for his juice. "no more juice, baby". Kuki said, gently. "it's bed time". She put Ivanov in his bed, putting a thick, fuzzy blanket over him. "Do you want to hear "Goodnight Moon"?". Kuki asked, taking a book from Ivanov's bookshelf. Ivanov laid down, calmly. "Goodnight Moon". "Goodnight cow jumping over the moon". "Goodnight table, goodnight chair". "goodnight people everywhere". Kuki read. Ivanov laid down, feeling the essence of calm, nurturing, and love break through. It was a wonderful feeling he knew, and could tolerate. Kuki gently stroked his face, kissing his cheek. "I lo-ove you". 'I lo-ove you". Kuki hummed softly.

Ivanov did not feel upset, or traumatized at this point. He knew Kuki would always be there for him. Kuki would stroke his face, kiss his cheek, and rub his back. Kuki would love him, and guide him through his journey. Ivanov laid, feeling the light, gentle brush of Kuki's hand. Brushing always calmed Ivanov, and made him feel loved. "I love you, now and forever". Kuki sang, as Ivanov closed his eyes. "I love you". "I love you, now and forever". Ivanov felt the calming effects of sleep, as he laid back. Wally came in, picking Nalana up. "you look like you need to be put to bed, girlie". He said. "ju". "ju". Nalana pointed. "we'll have juice tomorrow, mate". "right now, you need to go to bed". Wally said. "let's see how well you do with Mr. Tickles!". Nalana giggled, as Wally tickled her stomach. He then did a robot voice. " . Mr.. . . . . ". Nalana giggled, as Wally tickled her stomach. "come here, girlie". "come here". Wally said, tickling Nalana's stomach. Kuki, after putting Ivanov to bed, looked in Nalana's bedroom, seeing just how perfect Wally was. "he has such a way with children". Kuki thought, swooning over the thought of Wally, as he entertained Nalana.

Kuki felt an oncoming attraction toward Wally. She felt as if she wanted to have sex with him again. She wanted to do certain things with Wally normal circumstances wouldn't abide by. Although, that wasn't possible. Kuki leaned against the frame of the bedroom door, looking down at Wally. "I am so lucky to have him". Kuki sighed. Ira came over, standing beside her. "he's really nice". Ira said. "I feel like he understands me, and is willing to help me, as well as everyone else". "mmm he is". Kuki said, feeling the attraction, feeling the essence of sex, and passion. "It is wonderful we're together". "Soon, we'll be married". Kuki said. "oh, that's nice". Ira said. "So, um…when you and Wally get married, where will you get married?". "we're not sure yet, although it might be in Florida". Kuki said. "ok". Ira said. "mmm, do you want some cranberry juice?". Kuki asked, brushing Ira's face. "no, I'm ok". Ira said. Kuki sighed, watching Wally put Nalana to bed. As Nalana fell asleep, Wally came out, taking his shirt off. "She was pretty easy tonight". "Come to think of it, she's always easy". "I don't think we've ever had a problem putting her to bed".

"Right". "she is easy". Kuki said, taking off her silk robe, to reveal her silk negligee. There was a bit of a lump in her stomach due to pregnancy. "all of our amazing mentees have been easy". "They are a gift". Kuki whispered, wrapping her arms around Wally. "I'd like to say, we're good people". Wally said, his voice remaining deep, and sonorous. "We are". "we're lucky to have amazing people". Kuki said, as she felt this attraction nearing, and nearing, closer, and closer. Closer, and closer, closer it came, as she leaned in, kissing Wally on the mouth. Wally kissed her as well, leaning in as he did. They delved in, letting their lips touch one another, their tongues wrapping around one another. Wally felt his tongue curl around Kuki's, pushing hers back as it went father, farther, farther back. She let her tongue curl around Wally's, as she pushed back. Her tongue curled, wrestling for dominance. It eventually pushed, going further, and further in, until siemen was released. Kuki felt a very tingly feeling arise from the pushing, and pressing down of her tongue. "Should we take this elsewhere?". Wally asked. "Yeah". Kuki said, airily as they went into the master bedroom, shutting the door.

Ira sat outside, knowing now was the perfect opportunity to get some cranberry juice. Getting up, she went to the fridge, pouring herself some cranberry juice. It was quite peaceful outside, just drinking cranberry juice, feeling as if she was supported. Now, it was nice knowing everything was quiet, and she could have some time to herself. Ira drank her cranberry juice. The amazing Cranberry Juice. Cranberry Juice with original cocktail enhancement, and fruity, sour taste. Ira loved it. She was thirsty after eating her Chipotle. Ira enjoyed the quiet, and enjoyed the tired she felt, as a result of her going, going, going all day. It was nice to relax, and feel tired. Ira got another glass of Cranberry juice, drinking feeling the comfort, and nurturing of cranberry juice. As she was no longer thirsty, Ira went into her room, laying down in her bed. She felt as if she was finally nurtured, and loved. She felt as if now, she was finally being understood, and protected. She wasn't completely on her own. She had an advocate, a teacher there to support her.

Kuki felt the rush, and tingling of her vagina so profusely, as she took a deep breath, feeling the deep white. Feeling the fuzz. Wally pressed his penis against Kuki's vagina, as a soft, tingling feeling was felt. Their lips were locked, as they continued exchanging fluids. Going inward, inward, they continued. Kuki felt the tingling feeling become more prominent, as they continued. Now, it was as if they were bathing in champagne, as the fuzz resumed. Kuki felt the tingling take over her toes, knees, and vagina, stomach, as she kissed Wally. She was attracted to Wally. She loved Wally. Soon, they would be married, and someday be able to move out of their rickety, old house.

Hormones overcame Kuki, and Wally, and as the pressing continued, her vagina got tighter, tighter, tighter, as the baby kicked. Wally slept on top of her, snoring loudly. Kuki slept as she felt the expanding, and contracting become a thing, all too prominent. It was something to watch. Although now, she knew her life was perfect. It was perfect because she had Wally right beside her to celebrate. It was perfect because she had the perfect man right beside her.

The next morning, Ivanov woke up to the soft feeling of brushing on his face. Looking upward, he saw Kuki gently brushing him awake. "baby". Kuki said, kindly. "let's wake up". Ivanov reached his hands upward, regarding them as if he'd seen them for the very first time. He started playing with his fingers. He was unable to hold attention, as he stared around the room. "Are you ready for another great day?". Kuki smiled, as drool dripped down Ivanov's chin. Kuki wiped the drool with a Kleenex. "Let's swallow". She said, gently. Ivanov sucked in the drool, pushing it down his throat. "good job, Ivanov". "Are you ready to get dressed?". Kuki smiled, brushing Ivanov's cheek. Ivanov made sucking noises as he still played with his fingers, not responding to Kuki's voice. "Let's get dressed, honey". She picked Ivanov up, carrying him into the bathroom. Ira walked out of her room, wearing her new, tan blazer. "You look beautiful". Kuki smiled, kissing Ira's forehead. "Do you have another meeting today?". "yeah". Ira said. "I have to meet with the Associate Provost of our college about changing things with the café that does school lunches". "That's lovely". Kuki said. "I don't have anything going on today, really". Ira said. "Is it ok if we go to Sesame Inn?". Ira asked. "of course, honey". Kuki said, gently. "I do teach today, but perhaps for dinner, or lunch". "it's up to you". "I know". Ira said.

Kuki helped Ivanov brush his teeth, as he turned his head. "I have to study". Ira said. "ok, we can do whatever works for you". Kuki said. "Just give me a call around noon, if you'd like, and I'll see what I can do". "ok". Ira said. "eeee". Ivanov noised, turning his head. "I know, baby". "Give me just a few more minutes, and we'll be done". Kuki said, brushing Ivanov's teeth. "b aba". Nalana pointed with her tiny hand. "hi, sweetie". Kuki said, as she put Ivanov's shirt on. "b aba". Nalana said, pointing to Kuki's stomach. "There is a baby in there". Kuki said. "do you want to kiss him, good morning?". Kuki asked. Nalana came over, kissing Kuki's stomach. "say, good morning". Kuki said, as Nalana hugged Kuki's stomach. "let's get you dressed". Kuki said. "I can get Ivanov". Ira said, taking Ivanov from Kuki's arms. "you are so helpful". Kuki smiled. "thank you, sweetie". "I know". Ira said, taking Ivanov to the kitchen. "a b aba ba ab b aba". Nalana pointed, as Kuki put a flower shirt on Nalana. "what's that?". "is that a toothbrush". Kuki instructed, showing Nalana her toothbrush. "toothbrush". Kuki repeated. "bub a". Nalana said. "yes, we brush our teeth with the toothbrush". Kuki said.

"bub a". Nalana said. "Let's brush our teeth". Kuki said, helping Nalana to brush her teeth. Afterwards, it was time to go outside, and have some breakfast. "Do you want some yogurt with cheerios, sweetie?". "yogurt". Kuki repeated, as Nalana pointed. "bub u". "bub u". Nalana pointed. "Let's have some yogurt". Kuki said, taking some yogurt from the refrigerator. Wally came out, dressed for the bank, as he rolled his cuffed sleeves up. "Hey". He said, trying to keep a smile from forming, when seeing Kuki, although this failed. "Hey". Kuki said, as she kissed him on the mouth. "You may've heard this, perhaps, but, Ira wants to meet you for lunch". Wally said. "we'll plan something". Kuki said. "I told her she could call me". "That's probably the best you can do with your schedule". Wally said. "It is". Kuki said. "I work until 4:30, so, you might have to be home for them, if you can". "I will". Wally said. "I'm only there until 3:30". "That's good". Kuki said. "I have to meet Marie to buy a crib, and some diapers". "Way to be ahead of it". Wally said.

"I am way ahead of it, astonishingly enough". Kuki said. "yeah, you're taking this mother thing seriously". Wally muttered. "For once". Kuki muttered in reply. Ivanov sat, staring vacantly around the room. "Let's eat breakfast, baby". Kuki said, gently. She opened his yogurt, mixing cheerios in it. She then fed Ivanov his yogurt, as he ate, practicing his chewing and swallowing. "Good job, Ivanov". Kuki said, gently. Ivanov turned his head, as Kuki lifted up another spoonful. "Let's eat yogurt". Kuki gently reminded. Ivanov ate his yogurt, as Kuki helped him swallow by putting two fingers on his throat. "Are you ready?". "Let's swallow". Kuki reminded. Ivanov swallowed, as he started making sucking noises. "it's time to eat the rest". Kuki said, kindly. She helped Ivanov swallow, as he had another bite. "Good job". Kuki smiled. Ivanov made the "more" sign as he finished his yogurt. "You'll have more at school, honey". Kuki said, gently, kissing Ivanov's cheek.

"Somebody special ate all of her cheerios, this morning". Wally said, kissing Nalana's cheek. "b aba ba". Nalana said, lifting her hands up. "I'm very proud of you for eating your cheerios". Kuki said, gently, taking Nalana's hands in hers. "We've been working on that for a while now". "That makes me happy". "b aba b aba ba". Nalana giggled. "I know, honey". "you've done so well". Kuki said. "So, Newman will be available later for line checks, and retail". Wally said. "I'm sure he will be". Kuki said. "did he show you his full schedule, or…did we just guess on this one?". "He sent his schedule a while back, although he's not expecting anyone to fully look at it". Wally said. "I just looked at it, because it was right there". "It's still better than what we had before". Kuki said. "yeah, he'll make an appointment if he wants". Wally said. "he should". Kuki said.

Nalana and Ivanov finished their breakfast, as Kuki took them outside to wait for the bus. "Be good, today". "I'll be back later". Kuki said. "Have fun with Ms. May today". Ms. May with her blonde hair, and her front buckteeth, was Ivanov's developmental therapist. Ivanov felt safe with her. She was playful, gentle, and understanding of Ivanov. "Have a good day at school". "I love you". Kuki said, giving Ivanov and Nalana a kiss. The bus eventually came, as Nalana and Ivanov got on, going on their way to school. Kuki had to sigh, fervently a bit. They were great mentees, yes, and it was wonderful giving them a home. They always had a home with Kuki. Now, although, it was going to be hard taking care of the baby, and looking after them. It was going to be difficult handling it all, although, if anyone could do it, Kuki could.

Sure, Nalana and Ivanov would have to get more services for people with disabilities, and learn at a remedial level, although, at least now, they had a family. Now, they were away from the orphanage in Russia, and were on their journey to better themselves. Kuki helped Nalana, and Ivanov get on the bus, watching the bus pull away. Picking up the morning paper, Kuki got her things ready to go. She put on her leaf green sweater, and black jeggings, (she was allowed to look minimal formal for her work) being sure that her sweater concealed her stomach. Her now bigger stomach that was only growing with pregnancy. Her stomach would grow, and grow with pregnancy. It would soon be the size of a ripe melon with how large it would grow. All morning, as she brushed her long, silky black hair, Kuki thought about the passionate night she had with Wally. She was obsessed with Wally, and Wally was obsessed with her, everything about her. Their love for one another was strong, and she figured now, it was time to get married, and start things off the right way.

When would they do it, however? How would they involve Ivanov, and Nalana? How would Ira react to the change? Would she be ok with it? Kuki had considered marrying Wally, and of course, making their love official. She believed in her love for Wally, and knew they had created a wonderful family. Now, it was time to get their life started. They would move into a bigger house near Ivanov, and Nalana's school, they would open a 401k, and start things financially, they would help their family reach new heights. Kuki was excited for the future. It was their future, and they would make it shine.

After kissing Wally goodbye, she started in her car, driving down the road. Traffic was in its usual busy state, people on the roads, waiting endlessly for the lights to turn green. She wound around many buildings, and shops, many plazas, and parks until she came to a secluded building hidden down on a mound. Kuki went down the road, parking her car in the parking lot, where her car originally hid. Taking care to her pregnant stomach, Kuki rolled out of her car, and walked steadily to the entrance. There, she entered her number, and went to her therapy classroom to begin planning. Many of the kids here, didn't learn at age level, and were severely emotionally disturbed. Many had suffered the death of a loved one, were neglected, or abused in infancy, were internationally adopted, or had come from the foster care system. Some were severely disabled, while some relived trauma. Kuki often helped these kids, and gave them a comforting place to turn to. A young boy, who had been severely neglected, and abused in infancy, and through four families, Kyle, came in, wearing his car pajamas. It was Kuki's first student of the day. "hi Ms. Kuki". He said in an underdeveloped, speech pattern, with a behind, cadence that didn't know many words, but could communicate well, and did mean well. It gave the essence that it was broken, malnourished, and suffered from maltreatment in infancy.

"Hello, Kyle". Kuki said, gently, as Kyle put his stuff in the organizer in the back of the room, sitting down to do a coloring book. "How were things last night with Anastasia?". "I heard you and your brother stayed with her family while mom and dad were away". Kuki organized some simple learning activities for her students. Anastasia, or Ana, was one of Kyle's friends he grew up with. She was a little girl from Russia, who had experienced neglect while in the orphanage. She had minimal learning disabilities, although still came to Kuki's, to get help managing feelings, and reciprocate affection. "It was good". Kyle said. "we built a bonfire". "That sounds like fun". Kuki said, gently, still organizing, and going over activity plans. "and Ana's big brother came over". Kyle said. "I'm happy to hear you had a great week". Kuki said, gently. "I'm even more proud to hear you're getting along with your brother". "That makes me happy". "my brother is Blake". Kyle said. "Yes, and Blake is very happy to see you being so nice to him". Kuki said, kindly. "you are very mature, and I'm proud of that". She talked to Kyle on a fair level for someone with an intellectual disability.

"I'm very honored to have someone who is so helpful, and kind". "I have always loved that about you, and you will always make me proud to be your friend". she smiled, brushing Kyle's face. "I know". Kyle said. Kuki felt a quick expanding in her stomach, as she breathed in. The baby was growing, and making its presence known. "Kuki". Kyle said, as he saw Kuki's stomach. "is the baby sleeping?". "I'm not sure". Kuki said, smoothing out her stomach. "the baby's awake because it's daytime". Kyle said, pointing. "He might be". Kuki smiled, gently, chuckling.

"Sweetie, let's go sit down, and color some pictures". Kuki said, in a soft, feminine, motherly voice. "ok". Kyle said. Kuki sat, stretching out a bit, as…strangely enough, the expanding was becoming a thing. Kuki felt the essence of tired become all too real. "mmm, what colors are you going to use?". Kuki said, smiling. "I'm going to use Blue and White, like the Chargers". Kyle said. "mmm, the Chargers". "Is that your favorite football team?". Kuki asked, stretching out. "yes". Kyle said. "I'm not a big football fan, but, I will watch the super bowl". Kuki said, gently, while sighing. "Colin Kapaernick". Kyle said. "I'll bet". Kuki said. "Kyle, honey, do you like watching football with mom and dad?". "I like watching football with mom". Kyle said. "that's wonderful, sweetie". Kuki said. "mmm, I wonder if Karla got my recipe I sent". "my mom is really nice". "she made me cookies one time". Kyle said.

"mmm, I'm sure you know how much mom loves you, but, your dad, and brother love you too". Kuki said. "I know". Kyle said. "Dad may like to do his own thing, but, he's glad you're a part of the family". Kuki said. "you know, you and Blake came from the same place". "we came from the same place". Kyle processed. "you did". Kuki said. "you were both born in the same home, and when birth mom died, you were adopted by several different families". "were my families nice?". Kyle asked. "not necessarily". Kuki said. "You didn't get the love, and care you needed". "things were a little bit harder for you". "but luckily, there was a family who loved you, and adopted you". "my family loves me". Kyle said. "yes, your family loves you very much". Kuki said. "Your family is so proud of the wonderful person you are". "I know". Kyle said. Kuki kissed him on the forehead. Another cute girl, came in, wearing her pajamas. She had brown hair cut into bangs, and brown, beautiful, round eyes. She held her teddy bear, as she came in. "Hello, Alexandria". Kuki said, as the girl sat down. "ku-ki". Alex pronounced, in a broken speech pattern, similar to Kyle's. "How are you feeling?". Kuki asked, gently, as Alex sat down at the table. "hap-py". Alex pronounced. "I'm glad to hear that". Kuki said. "I know you've been having some nightmares recently". "I had nightmares". Alex said, pronouncing each word in the sentence slowly, having some difficulty.

"mmm, yes, but you've been taking your medicine for your nightmares". Kuki said. "It's been helping you". "yes". Alex said. Alex had been through the foster care system, and was abused by her foster family in infancy. The severe trauma, and emotional, and physiological neglect left her with a severe learning disability. More students came in, playing, and coloring, as Kuki got some more coloring pages.

Sailor, a high functioning 10 year old girl, who had lost her family in a plane crash, and lived with Cree Lincoln, Abigail's sister, came in, wearing her pajamas, sniffling. She came to Kuki's for emotional support, after the traumatizing event. She still had nightmares, threw tantrums, and had a hard time sleeping. She sniffled, as there were bags underneath her eyes. "Sailor". Kuki said, kindly, as she sat in her chair, putting various things away. "yes?". Sailor asked. "Did you have an ok night?". "Did you sleep well?". Kuki asked. "no". Sailor said, sobbing. A few other teachers sat with the others, as Kuki took Sailor's hands in hers. "what happened?". Kuki asked, kindly. "I had a nightmare about my parents again". Sailor said. "I tried sleeping with Cree, but, I didn't go back to sleep". "I just, I don't know what to do". "I feel like I'm trying my hardest, but I can't seem to get anything right". "Sails". Kuki said, brushing a strand of hair from Sailor's face.

"you never have to worry about being the best". "you are best, at everything you do". "I know it's been a little bit hard on you, but, we'll get through it". Kuki said, stroking Sailor's head. Kirby, a little boy who had experienced the loss of a loved one, came over, hugging Sailor. "thank you, Kirby". Sailor said. "I'm your family, and I will help you with any new feelings you may be experiencing". Kuki said, gently. "ok, I guess". Sailor said. She looked down, seeing the lump in Kuki's stomach. Kuki was pregnant.

"What are you feeling?". Kuki asked, gently. "I feel like I…I...I tried, and I did everything I could". Sailor said. "I worked really hard to save my family, and do what I need to do". "I failed". "Sweetie, you didn't fail". Kuki said. "You were a hero to your family". "you saved them". "no, I didn't". Sailor said. "you did". Kuki said. "it's not your fault what happened". "sometimes, nature has to take it's course, but, you did really well". "I'm always proud of you, and your accomplishments". "I love you". "I know". Sailor said. "Thank you". "Of course". Kuki said. "If you need anything, just let me know". "ok". Sailor replied.

As Sailor sat in her seat, Anastasia came in, wearing her full body pajamas. Anastasia was a little girl with brown hair cut into bangs, beautiful, round, brown eyes. She went over to the back, picking out a book. "Hi, Ms. Kuki". Anastasia said. "hello, Anastasia, sweetie". Kuki said, kindly. "Did you have a nice morning?". "yes". Anastasia said. "did you eat yogurt with Cheerios for breakfast?". Kuki spoke on Anastasia's level. "I ate a peanut butter and Jelly sandwich". Anastasia said. "Ana!". Kyle said, as Anastasia sat down to read her book. "hi Kyle". Anastasia said. Another little boy, with brown, round eyes, held his blanket close to him, he had on pajamas with trucks on them. This was Robbie. He had been adopted at 5 months from an orphanage in Romania, as his birth parents were shot and killed. He hadn't been held, or rocked, nurtured in the orphanage, leading to an intellectual disability. Robbie lost his current adoptive parents to a fire, and was living with his grandparents.

Robbie became emotional often, and due to his intellectual disability, could not problem solve easily. Today, right now, he was just fine. "Robbie, sweetie". Kuki said, gently, as she tickled his chin. "Hi, good morning". "Ms. Ku-ki". Robbie pronounced his words, even as his speech was severely delayed, and underdeveloped. "I have truck". "truck". He said, pointing to his pajamas. "I see, sweetie". Kuki smiled. "Did mom buy you truck pajamas?". "yes". Robbie said. "That's good". Kuki said, in a maternal manner. "Ms. Kuki have baby". Robbie pointed to Kuki's stomach. "yes, there is a baby in there". Kuki said, gently. "How did you get baby in there?". Robbie asked. "It was a gift from god". Kuki said. "God put baby in there?". Robbie asked. "he did". Kuki said. "Do you still pray often?". Kuki asked, brushing a strand of hair from Robbie's eyes. "yes". Robbie said. "I'm very happy to hear you still pray". Kuki said. "you have always seen the positives in things, and you have made our classroom a happy place". "I'm very proud of you".

"Thank you". Robbie said. "of course, sweetheart". Kuki said, gently. She went to get orange juice from the fridge that sat in the back of her classroom. "mmm, ok, let's take your medicine, sweetie". She said, with a passive, easy, gentle natured love in her voice. "no". Robbie said, turning his head. Robbie for his daytime tremors, and for the 2nd degree burn on the right side of his heart, took medicine 3 times a day. "sweetie, this medicine will help you". Kuki said, being honest with him. "your heart is starting to clear up, and pump blood". "you also have been doing very well emotionally". "I know it's hard taking medicine, but, it makes you feel better, right?". "yes". Robbie replied. "let's take medicine". "if you do well, we'll have some brownies tomorrow". "ok". Robbie said. Kuki took his medicine from the medicine cabinet, pouring it in a cup for him to drink. Robbie drank the liquid, as Kuki rubbed his back. "Thank you, sweetheart". Kuki said. "tomorrow will be brownie day". "Brownie". Robbie said. "mm hmm, I'll have brownies just for you". Kuki said.

" Ms. Kuki". Kyle said, as Kuki stretched out in the chair next to him. "yes, sweetheart?". she said. "is the baby sleeping?". Kyle asked. "mmm, well, it's morning time". Kuki said. "The baby's awake". "oh, is he playing?". Kyle asked. "I don't think so". Kuki said. "the baby still has to grow". "he has to grow up?". Kyle asked. "mm, he does". Kuki said. "Are you going to take care of the baby?". Kyle asked. "I am". Kuki said, stretching out, feeling the wave of tired. "I'm his mom". "oh, what does a mom do?". Kyle asked. "a mom holds the baby, feeds the baby, teaches him, helps him grow up". "A mom does a lot of things". Kuki said. "That to which I'll learn to do". "mmm". Kuki mumbled, as Kyle kept coloring his picture in his coloring book.

"It's a fire truck". Kyle said, as he showed Kuki his picture. "I see, how creative". Kuki said, yawning a bit. "that is wonderful". Kuki tried keeping focus, although she was distracted by the essence, the purity of sex, and the relationship, she and Wally had. It was the love, the love that continued growing, and that kept her by his side. "mm, would you like some orange juice, sweetie?". "Some Cranberry juice?". "no thank you". Kyle said. "ok, just let me know". Kuki said. "If there's anything you'd like, I'd be happy to get it". Kyle continued coloring, as he seemed happy. Kyle was always happy. He never let his past trauma affect his attitude. He just continued looking at the positives. Kuki knew he was disabled, and would need extra help later on. It wasn't his fault. Looking around, it wasn't any of the kids' faults the world was such a cold, dark, place sometimes. It wasn't their faults they were met with trauma. Some of them were happy, although. That was the important part.

Sailor sat in the corner, on a beanbag, sniffling, as she felt the darkness creep up inside her. She felt as if there was nothing left. She felt as if she was a shell with no soul, that was counting the days. Sailor sniffled, sobbing loudly, as she held her teddy bear close to her. She felt a bit tired, and yes, she wanted to lay down, although, as she looked on, she still sobbed loudly. Her eyes turned red, as she began crying. Through her tears, she saw footsteps coming closer, closer, and closer, as Kuki sat beside her. "Sailor". "what happened?". "Is everything ok?". "I'm fine". Sailor said, quietly. "You sound upset". Kuki said. Sailor looked up at her, then, sniffled again before looking back down. "tell me". Kuki said, brushing Sailor's face.

"I just…I can't…I…I...I…I miss my family". "I miss my parents". "I miss my sister". "I just…I failed, and no matter what I try to do, I keep failing". "I don't know what else I can do at this point". "I understand". Kuki said, stroking Sailor's face. "I think you've been amazing throughout this entire process". "You've learned to welcome your emotions, and forgive others". "I guess". Sailor said. "you have". Kuki said. "I know this has been hard, but, you've done so well". "Are you beginning to feel a little bit better?". Kuki asked. "no". Sailor said. "mmm, how do you feel?". Kuki asked. Sailor sniffled a little bit. "I feel like, I…I…I can't sleep". "I can't eat". "I feel like I'm a failure that lets everyone down". "No matter what I try to do, it always fails". "I couldn't save my family". "I'm not smart enough, I'm not enough". "I don't see any point to staying here on this Earth, sometimes". "Every day, I feel like I'm going to get hurt".

"I just, I want to get better". "I want to be myself again". Sailor said, quietly. "you will". Kuki said, tickling Sailor's cheek. "Right now, it's just hard because you're in the middle of it". "I'll be honest with you, it takes some time". "You need to trust your family, and friends to be there for you through it". Kuki said. "oh, ok". Sailor said. "mmm, I'm your family, and part of being a family, is being there when something happens". Kuki said. "You've experienced trauma, and you've experienced pain". "yeah, but, I don't know what to do". Sailor said. "let's be easy". Kuki said, gently. "let's take some time for ourselves". "it's an important time to heal". "Even if it means focusing some attention on your needs, and what's important to you". "I like helping others". Sailor said. "It makes me feel better when I'm sad". "I try to stay as involved as I can in my community because I know it'll keep my mind off of my family". "that's good". Kuki said. "make sure you're getting enough rest, and eating enough". "let's try eating at a buffet more often, and relaxing, laying on the couch for a couple hours". "ok". Sailor said.

"Do you still like Grand China Buffet?". Kuki asked. "I do". Sailor said. "mmm, perhaps tomorrow, we'll sneak out early, and I'll take you to the buffet". "It'll be our secret". Kuki said. "What time are you in regular school until?". "3:00". Sailor said. "mm k". Kuki said. "I might have my friend, Ira with me". "is that the Ira that won a Nobel Prize?". Sailor asked. "it is". Kuki said. "I can't wait to see Ira". Sailor said. "I wanted to do something with her, but, she always can't". "she has a lot to do". Kuki said. "but, I'm sure the buffet has some fried rice, and sushi, some mashed potatoes with red coffee bean gravy you like". "I can't wait to put soy sauce on everything". Sailor said.

"I don't know if you should do that". Kuki said. "let's be careful". "ok". Sailor said. Sailor no longer cried, as she laid down on the beanbag. Kuki stroked her head, putting a blanket over her, as she calmed down a considerable amount. It was the sleep she needed. It was what she deserved.

The rest of the day held activities, and lunch. Later on, it was time to pack up, and go home. Kuki drove home late that night from the big box store with Marie. She went to dinner with Ira, and yes, fed Wally and the little ones when she got home. As she curled up, she felt the essence of sleep come, and knew tomorrow would be a day all its own measure.