So I was originally going to have Anna stay single, but then I found one of Journey's songs that my parents used to listen to and thought, how cool would it be for Anna to inspire her soulmate to become a better person? I never covered Jasper's romance when I wrote Diana's stories, so I'm experimenting with this to see if it works out.
I think these chapters are mostly going to have time jumps until... oh, 2049? Maybe 2048. I'm not sure. But for right now, here's this chapter. I am excited to develop Anna's powers though.
DISCLAIMER: I do not own anything related to "Meet the Robinsons," "TMNT," "Criminal Case," "Toy Story," nor "Lord of the Rings: The Third Age." I only own Lilianna, Ryan, Venus, Athena, James, Justine, Isamu, Anna, Jasper, and Jessi.
December 31, 2046 - Pacific Bay, California, USA
ANNA'S POV
I woke up with a smile on my face as the sunlight shone through the window. Today was the last day of 2046 here and I was looking forward to stepping into 2047 with a newfound confidence.
I glanced over on the nightstand and found my trans-dimensional portal that Donnie gave me for Christmas. While I was not an official member of the Hamato Clan yet, various members of the clan had agreed to train me to use my powers here. Based on how my schedule would go, I was told by Leonardo to pick a day that would work best for me. Wilbur had advised me to try to pick either Saturday or Sunday since those were his days off. But the advice Lily gave me was the best.
Lily explained that since I will have multiple teachers, I could pick the day that would work the best while choosing the teacher I would benefit the most from that day. If I had wanted to train with Wilbur, then I would choose Saturday or Sunday. I could train with Lily any day of the week since we live in the same state. April and Donnie could only train me during the evenings, but April had warned me to keep the difference in time zones in mind; I had learned, quite sleepily, that New York was three hours ahead of Pacific Bay. It had taken me some time since returning home to get back on my normal sleep schedule.
I spent most of my day in my room looking over everything for new caregiver orientation since the next two days were holidays. I was told to do all of it at home, which I was very much fine with. Lily had let me borrow her laptop since she had gone through it before.
I had finished all of the online education I needed for my you by five o'clock when I heard knocking on the door.
"Come in!"
The door opened, revealing Lily, wearing a glittering blue dress and her hair up in a classy bun.
"Hey, Anna, would you do me a favor?"
"Sure!"
"Would you go to the store to get some wine? I totally forgot about it."
"Cherry wine?" I asked with a grin.
"Hmm... cherry and peach, please. Let's mix it up tonight. While you get that, I'll order some pizza."
"Oooh, could I have some of that Hawaiian pizza, please?"
"You really liked that pizza, huh?"
"I understand the appeal!" I explained. "The sweetness of the pineapple juice along with the juicy ham and the spicy pepperoni? Mmm!"
Lily laughed.
"Don't tell James that. He doesn't like that combination."
"All this fighting about food is silly! You should eat what you like and that's the end of it. Who cares what other people think?"
Lily laughed again.
"I like how blunt you are, but this is one of those things called having a friendly debate, a skill you absolutely need as a lawyer."
"I'm sure I'll be learning a lot of things in law school," I replied.
"That reminds me. Is your first day going to be in August?"
"Yes, around the same time the next school year starts for you."
"You getting accepted into law school reminded me of furthering my education yet again," Lily said, rolling her eyes. "I gotta apply again for a doctorate's program. Thankfully, I have Russell to vouch for me."
"You have me, too, you know."
"You're not official."
Oops.
"Who's Russell?" I asked.
"He's a profiler I know. He also lives in Connecticut. He has a wife and two kids. One kid is studying psychology in Chicago. But anyway, he's already agreed to be my supervisor in this."
"Well, if Pacific Bay University accepted you back then, they'll continue to accept you."
"I should hope so! Not to brag, but I am the top student in the class. You actually inspire me, Anna."
I smiled.
"You inspire me too, Lily. Tomorrow starts my search for a place to live."
"Oh! One piece of advice: make sure you have three months worth of rent saved up in case something happens."
"I've already done that."
"Do you still need me to come with you? I'm off tomorrow."
"That would be great! But first, I need to get you that wine."
I slipped on some flats Athena got me for Christmas. It was comfortable enough outside for me to not need a coat. I went down the stairs and out the front door to the driveway where my red flying car was. I got in, and I drove off to the grocery store.
I walked around the mostly-empty grocery store to search for my wine. But I was not aware of my surroundings. Suddenly, I felt myself being shoved onto the floor. Thankfully, I found my footing with my hands and had a safe landing.
"I am so sorry!" I heard a young man say. "I was not paying attention to where I was going!"
"It's okay," I replied, looking up to find a blonde-haired man holding his hand out for me to take. "I'm afraid I was unaware of my surroundings, too."
The man pulled me up and he suddenly froze in place. We analyzed each other. His blonde hair was short but thick with layers. He had dashing blue eyes and quite the jawline. He wore a purple shirt and blue jeans. He looked very modest.
He had been staring at me for a while before I decided it was enough.
"Well, um, thank you for helping me up," I told him. "I really am sorry for bumping into you."
"No, no! I'm the one who's sorry."
"Let's just move forward, shall we?" I asked.
I started to walk away.
"Wait!" the man yelled after me.
I turned around.
"I don't know your name," he told me with a fond smile.
"Will we see each other again?" I asked.
"If you'd like to," he replied. "I'm Jasper. Jasper Crane."
I smiled. He had a nice name. I decided it wouldn't hurt to get to know him.
"And I'm Anna. Anna Swan."
"Wow! That's different!"
I laughed.
"I get that a lot. My name in my native tongue means gift."
"Oh, you're not from here?" Jasper asked with intrigue.
"No," I answered, but then remembered I had to lie about my origins. "I was born in Auckland and moved here."
"What brings you to Pacific Bay?"
"I'll be studying to be a lawyer."
"Oh, that's awesome! Lawyers get paid a lot."
"Well, I didn't know that," I replied, putting a strand of hair behind my ear, which Jasper noticed.
"Your ears are different. Were you born with them?"
"Yes, I was."
I cleared my throat, now realizing lingering behind was a mistake.
"I'm sorry," I told him. "But I have to go. I promised a friend I'd get her some wine for New Year's."
"I'm actually here to get sparkling wine myself," Jasper replied. "Why don't we shop together? I'll pay for yours."
"That is really not necessary," I replied bluntly, starting to walk away from him.
"I insist! Especially after the way I bumped into you."
"You did not bump into me. I bumped into you. It was very interesting meeting you."
I hurried away. I finally found the wine selection and bought five bottles: peach, cherry, strawberry, white, and rosé. I paid for them after I showed my driver's license, and then I went back to my flying car.
LILIANNA'S POV
I finally heard the front door open. I ran into the living room and found Anna with not two but five bottles of wine.
"What did you do?" I asked. "Are you okay?"
"Yeah!" Anna hastily answered. "I'm fine. I just thought I'd buy a little extra just in case."
"Just in case?"
I grinned.
"Something happened to you."
Anna glared at me.
"No, nothing happened. I ran into someone and he insisted on paying for our wine. I bluntly refused and went on my way."
"He?" I continued teasing her. "Alright, who's the guy?"
"Lily! It doesn't matter. I'm never seeing him again."
My T-Phone suddenly started ringing. I picked it up.
"Hello?"
"Hey, Lily. It's Jasper."
"Hi, Jasper!" I greeted him happily.
"Jasper?" Anna mouthed to me.
I nodded in response, but my smile went away when I saw the shocked expression on her face.
"How are you doing?" Jasper asked me.
"I'm doing fine!" I answered. "How are you?"
"Oh, just peachy keen."
Anna slapped her head, taking out the bottle of peach wine. I gave her a confused glance.
"Hey, so I need your advice," Jasper told me. "I met a woman in the market today after I accidentally knocked her down and I was wondering if you know her."
"Well, I'll try my best," I replied as Anna mouthed no!
"Her name is Anna Swan," Jasper revealed. "We were starting to get to know each other, but then she seemed uncomfortable and ran off. I was wondering if she was okay."
I now understood what my friend was trying to tell me. I suddenly felt stuck in the middle.
"I'm sorry, Jasper, could I put you on hold for a moment?" I asked before telling him a lie. "I have a call coming in."
"Oh, sure!"
"Thank you!"
I put him on hold and then gave Anna my attention.
"You know him?!" Anna yelled at me.
"Whoa!" I exclaimed angrily. "You need to calm down, right now. Yes, I know Jasper. He's Russell's son, the one studying psychology in Chicago."
Anna plopped down on the chair, clearly angry.
"Do you want to tell me what this is all about?" I asked.
"I accidentally bumped into Jasper and fell," she explained. "He helped me up. My first mistake was not going on my way to get the wine. My second mistake was telling him my name. Then I revealed my ears... how am I supposed to tell someone in the open that I'm part-elf? I already lied to him about my being born in Auckland!"
"Well, first impressions can be good," I explained. "Jasper was just wanting to be sure you were okay. He's studying psychology. He's going to notice all the little details. And besides, I know him and he's a good egg."
Anna gave me a weird look.
"He's a good person," I explained further. "He's got his dad's looks and it seems like he's got his dad's personality, too. And I've known Russell long enough now to know that he is one of the most understanding people I've ever known. Jasper might be the same way."
Anna sighed.
"Give me the phone."
I gave Anna my phone and she took Jasper off hold.
"This is Anna. Yes, I am okay. I'm sorry I ran off like that. I was scared. My story is very different from everyone else's and I was scared of sharing the truth with a total stranger. Actually, I live with Lily. It's part of the story."
Anna suddenly blushed.
"Jasper! I don't go on dates with someone I just met, and in the supermarket, of all places!"
Anna sighed again.
"I'll tell you what. Come on over to Lily's tomorrow night. I can cook you dinner and I'll explain everything. I feel much better telling you in a private setting than out in a restaurant. Yes, I cook."
Anna blushed again.
"Jasper, please stop. Right now, I'm just an acquaintance. I'll see you tomorrow night, okay? Alright, I will. Goodbye."
Anna hung up and gave the phone back to me.
"Jasper needs to know your address."
I glanced over at my husband, who shrugged.
"Anna, are you okay?" I asked. "I'm worried about you."
"Yeah, I'm worried about me too. I've never had a date before."
"You've lived for 202 years and you've never had a date?" I asked with shock.
"Lily, would you watch over us somewhere?" Anna asked. "I'm not sure I can do this by myself."
"Nope," James answered for me. "This is between you and Jasper. Lily and I will be going out to dinner in a fancy restaurant to celebrate the start of a new year."
"We are?" I asked in confusion. "James, we don't have that kind of money!"
"No, but I got a Christmas gift from my folks and I booked us a reservation."
I smirked.
"James, you rascal."
I walked over to him, pulled him close to me, and I kissed him.
"Now, the pizza's getting cold," he said. "Let's enjoy the end of 2046!"
January 1, 2047 - New York City, New York, USA
DONATELLO'S POV
I woke up to my T-Phone ringing. I smiled when I found it was my daughter calling me.
"Hey, Lily Mae!" I greeted her happily. "This is the best way to start a new year."
"Oh!" Lily exclaimed happily. "Well, I'm glad I made your day. Listen, I need a favor."
"Wow. Right to the point, huh? You must have hung around Anna a lot."
"Yeah, Anna's taught me to not be afraid and just get it done and over with. She's bold, like her father. But anyway... well, speaking of which, Anna's got a date tonight and she's nervous."
"Ooh!" I exclaimed happily. "Who's the guy?"
"Dad!"
"Sorry, sorry! But seriously, I am happy for Anna."
"I'm not even sure she's happy. She met Jasper while getting us wine and she's nervous about telling him her life story because he wants to get to know her better. Anna must have made quite the impression on him."
"Wait, are we talking about Jasper Crane or a different Jasper?"
"The one and only, Dad. Jasper and his family are visiting his grandpa Jupiter here in Pacific Bay."
I felt confused.
"I take it the favor has to do with Anna and Jasper?" I asked.
"Yes. Anna asked me to listen in on their date but James intervened and we're eating out tonight. Anna's cooking for Jasper and he's coming over.I was wondering if you could come over, too."
"So let me get this straight: you wouldn't let me intervene in your dates and yet you want me to intervene in Anna's?" I asked skeptically.
"Because Anna's not your daughter! Please, Father? It'd be a big help to her."
"Does she know that you are calling me?"
"No."
"Lilianna, I really don't know about this," I replied, rubbing my forehead. "How would Jasper feel about it?"
"Look, Dad, Anna's extremely nervous because she's going to be all alone with a strange man. I don't know why James won't let me stay and protect her. She needs someone she can rely on to make sure nothing goes wrong and you were the first one to come to mind."
"Donnie, just go do it," April mumbled in her sleep. "I remember what it was like when I was living with Dad. He hated Casey. Just go make sure Anna's safe."
I raised an eyebrow at my sleeping wife.
"Well, it looks like I'm going," I told my daughter. "Mom's insisting."
"Yay! You're the bee's knees, Dad!"
"I'm doing this for Anna, Lily Mae," I sternly replied. "What time's this date?"
"James and I are leaving at five. Just be discreet, Dad. Use the shadows."
ANNA'S POV
I had asked everyone I knew for advice on first dates and what their experiences were. The most common piece of advice I had received was to be myself. But I still felt conflicted.
The Hamato Clan were easy to talk to because they've known dimensional travel all their lives and they are mutants, not fully human. I had felt like one of them and felt that I could appreciate my Gondorian & Lothlorien heritage with them. But I was not able to do that with the rest of mankind. I had to lie about my age, where I'm from, and how I got here.
But tonight, I was telling Jasper the truth. Would Jasper accept that I was over 200 years old? Would he accept my elven heritage? Would he accept that I have spirit powers? And even after all of that, would we see each other again?
Lily had explained that Jasper went to college in Chicago and that his home was close to New York City. Would Jasper be willing to come all the way here to Pacific Bay just to see me?
I shook my head, releasing all my doubts and focusing on finishing tonight's dinner. Michelangelo had suggested I cook Italian food for a first date. But I also remembered my mother telling me to include some vegetables for nutrition. I ended up making a chicken penne dinner with chipotle sauce, bell peppers, asparagus, green peas, and small tortilla chips. I also had garlic bread in the oven.
I finished the dinner and set it on the table. Then I went into the fridge and grabbed the peach and rosé wines, and I set those on the table. The last thing to do was for me to get dressed.
I went up the stairs to my room and retrieved a blue dress with bell sleeves and a peacock-feathered belt around my waist. After I put that on, I brushed my long, copper hair, braided it, and then put it in a bun behind my neck. Lastly, I put on my mother's golden flower necklace and tiara.
I suddenly heard knocking on the door. I hurried down the stairs and answered the door. There he was. Jasper Crane. His blonde hair was still layered, but it smelled like flowers. He wore a blue shirt and black pants with fancy black shoes. I looked at his face and his jaw was dropped. With a smile, I closed his mouth.
"Anna, wow!" Jasper exclaimed. "You're so... beautiful."
"Hannon le. That's thank you in my native tongue."
"Sindarin, if I remember correctly."
It was my turn to be surprised. Jasper somehow knew my language!
"Sorry," Jasper continued, walking in the door. "My family are huge fans of Lord of the Rings and I was very curious about the Elvish languages. I ended up learning about them in my spare time."
I suddenly felt more confident about telling Jasper about my life. I smiled, took his hand, and led him to the dining room table.
"Oh!" Jasper exclaimed happily. "You weren't kidding when you said you cook. That all looks and smells delicious!"
"Thank you! Would you like to sit down?"
"First, let me help you."
Jasper walked over to my seat and pulled the chair back for me. I sat down, and then he pushed me into the table.
"Gracias, mi amigo," I said in Spanish.
"De nada," Jasper replied. "You know Spanish, too, huh?"
"I actually know quite a bit of languages here," I explained. "Lily got me hooked on Duolingo and I've learned ten languages."
"Ten?! You could be my father's daughter with that knowledge."
Jasper took his seat and first filled my plate with the food before filling his own. Jasper already reminded me so much of my father. I remembered my father had always filled my mother's plate before anyone else's, and his was the last to be filled.
"How many languages does your father know?" I asked.
"Oh, every language possible," Jasper answered. "He learned the Aztec alphabet when he was just a kid!"
"What's the Aztec alphabet?" I asked.
"You've never heard of the Aztec empire?" Jasper asked with shock.
I shook my head.
"The Aztecs were one of the first peoples of this planet," Jasper explained. "They mostly dwelled in Mexico. But today's society would know them for their calendars and the supposed end of the world as predicted by them."
I felt angry at that. I've always felt that some sort of deity had always known when the world of Middle-Earth would end, and it has ended, at least for me.
"Speaking of origins, you mentioned you were born in Auckland," Jasper continued. "That's in New Zealand. What was life like over there?"
I let out a sigh, now realizing it was time for the truth. But I knew I wasn't alone. I felt Donnie's presence in another room.
"I'm actually not from this dimension," I explained. "I'm from Middle-Earth. I was born in the city of Minas Tirith in the realm of Gondor. My father was a natural-born citizen of Gondor, living to be one of the elite Citadel and Fountain Guards of Gondor. My mother was an elf, born in Lothlorien and she served under Lady Galadriel."
"So that's why your ears are pointed! But why did you lie to me?"
"If someone didn't know my origins, then I'd have to lie about them. But now you know. I'm not 22 years old, but 202. I somehow ended up in the city of Todayland after everything around me turned to darkness and this purple door opened up. I took the chance to get out of the darkness, and I also gave myself the chance to appropriately grieve for my father's death. I am now a Christian, thanks to my father's beliefs and Lily's guidance."
"It sounds like life here's treating you well, so far. I'm sorry for your loss. Is your mother still alive?"
"I want to say yes. She and my brother sailed to Valinor after my father's death and long before the darkness took over. I have no chance of seeing them again."
"So you have no family left?" Jasper asked with compassion.
"No. But I've been living with Lily and James and I recently went to New York with them to visit Lily's family, the Hamato Clan. I'm the unofficial member of the Hamato Clan because I agreed to be their lawyer when I get my law degree. I also discovered the powers I had in Middle-Earth here, so now I'm training to be a kunoichi with these powers."
I froze, realizing the last thing I said.
"Ah, don't mention my powers or my age to anyone, please?"
"No worries," Jasper replied with a smile. "I understand. Though I will admit, I've never met anyone from a different dimension before. I never imagined that Middle-Earth was real."
Jasper laughed as he took a bite of his dinner.
"Is it as beautiful as the movies portrayed it?" he asked.
I smiled fondly. Lily had shown me the Lord of the Rings movies while Karena had shown me YouTube videos of the game that showed my parents' lives, which was the best Christmas present I could ever receive, though the game was inaccurate with my both my parents' diaries.
"Yes, it is," I answered. "Even more so because I've seen it all in person. My life took place in the Fourth Age of Middle-Earth, so by the time I moved here, all of Middle-Earth was filled with grass and flowers."
"You mentioned your father was a Citadel Guard. Did he partake in any battles?"
"Oh, definitely. Not all evil went away overnight. My father often rode out with King Elessar to overcome the last of Sauron's minions in all directions. Of course, he always came back safe. My brother Adan, when he became of age, rode out with my father. I wanted to ride too, but he had always told me I would be safe at home with my mother. Of course, I felt angry, especially after all the time he took to train me to defend myself."
"I think I understand where your father came from," Jasper explained. "You told me your name means gift. You must have been born after your father suffered through trials. He might not have wanted you to go with him because he thought you'd die."
"But that's silly!" I replied. "My father was one of the best swordsmen in Middle-Earth and he trained me. Even Leonardo was impressed with my skills. Even Wilbur was impressed and he said he's not one to easily impress."
"But you still understand why, right?"
I let out a sigh.
"He was just trying to protect me. He's always talked about how my life was going to be full of peace. And perhaps my life in Middle-Earth was peaceful. But then my father died."
"And your idea of peace ended," Jasper finished my thoughts. "How long had you been grieving?"
"Over 100 years. Then I came here and I really had to face it because I was away from his body."
"That's a very long time to grieve. That's a lifetime for us. But what amazes me is how strong you are after all this time."
"Because I was born half-elf, I was gifted with the option of mortality. After my father died and my mother and brother sailed away to live forever, I had often thought about taking that gift and dying with my father. But I always decided against it, and I don't know why."
"Hope. That's a value deeply instilled in you by your parents. Hope was why, when your world was in darkness, you came here, to keep living."
"Hope has always been a thing in my family because of everything my father went through," I replied. "How's the food?"
"Everything is delicious," Jasper answered happily. "In fact, this is one of the best things I've ever tasted."
"Good!" I replied excitedly. "I take pride in my cooking because my mother taught me."
"Do you know if you'll ever see your mom again? Because I want to thank her for teaching you."
"Aww!" I exclaimed, putting my hands over my heart. "She'd like that, and she'd like you. She's in Valinor, so I'm not sure if she'd ever make it to this world. But I think she knows about you liking my cooking."
"And, unfortunately, I am unable to drink this wine. I am only nineteen years old."
I gasped. I had overlooked one itty-bitty detail and it was Jasper's age.
"I am so sorry!" I replied, feeling guilty. "You seem much older than you really are. Please let me get you a substitute."
I went into the kitchen and poured him a glass of sparkling wine that James had bought from his workplace.
"Would your father like me if he was here?" Jasper asked after I set his glass down on the table.
"No," I answered with a laugh. "If my dad had his way, he'd be in the next room, not Donnie. He always told me I was not allowed to date or marry any man, that I would always be his little girl, even though I was immortal in that world."
"You're not immortal here?"
"I don't believe so. But if it means seeing my father again, then I believe it will be worth it."
Jasper immediately gave me a look of disbelief.
"Did you just say Donnie was here?" he asked.
"Yes. I can feel his presence."
"Did you ask for him to be here?"
"No. It must have been Lily's idea because I asked her to stay in case things weren't going well."
"You were that nervous, huh?" Jasper asked.
"Yes. I've never done something like this before."
Jasper pondered in thought.
"I have an idea," he said. "You've toured Pacific Bay, right?"
"Yes, Lily drove me around when I first moved in with her."
"But have you seen Pacific Bay at Christmas time?"
It was my turn to ponder.
"I worked in the Ocean Shore district, so of course I've seen Christmas there. Lily and I carpool and she works in Jazz Town. It is absolutely beautiful at this time of year. And then I drive through the Inner City district to get to my job. In fact, I think that is where my new job will be."
"Well, come on, then!"
"Where are we going?" I asked.
"I'm going to show you what Christmas looks like in Ivywood Hills. It's where my dad was raised, and that's where we stay every Christmas."
"You're not thinking of taking me to meet your family, are you?"
"Goodness, no! Only if things go really well between us, God-willing."
I laughed.
"Then, let's go!"
DONATELLO'S POV
"Dad. Dad, wake up."
I felt myself being stirred awake and found Lily and James looking down at me with smiles on their faces. James wore a purple shirt and black pants while Lily wore a purple dress with her red hair tied up in a bun.
"Oh, hey, guys," I sleepily said with a smile. "How was your date?"
"The food was delicious," Lily answered. "James picked a good place. It was in Ivywood Hills, so we felt a little like Hollywood royalty."
"I'm glad you enjoyed yourselves. Anna and Jasper seemed to enjoy themselves while I was in here. Anna knew I was in here the entire time and it caused them to go to Ivywood to look at Christmas decorations."
"Wait, how did Anna know you were here?"
"She's half-elf, the daughter of Idrial of Lothlorien. She's got the gift of foresight and intuition just like her mother. Or have you forgotten that her powers have come back to life?"
"That reminds me. James, could Dad and I talk privately?"
"Sure. I need to change out of these clothes anyway."
James walked out of the room and up the stairs.
"What did you want to talk about, Lily?" I asked with intrigue.
"How we're going to train Anna. It will clearly be different than when she was trained in Minas Tirith."
"I was thinking about that, too," I replied, putting a hand on my chin. "Anna's ahead of the curriculum thanks to her training with her parents. But it's different here. She may need her mind trained again."
"But she doesn't need too much training," Lily said. "When she tried using her water powers against me, she explained that she was motivated to use them."
"She may have been motivated to gain an advantage against you and win the fight, which is the ultimate goal. Anna has the right idea."
"Uncle Leo led her in a meditation lesson over Christmas break and she was successful in talking with her father. So none of this is new to her."
"Anna just needs to find a way to use her powers without the use of a ring of power."
"Anna never wore one. It all came naturally to her."
"So you think she may have lost access to her powers due to her father's death and her family's sailing to Valinor?"
"Absolutely. She's overcome a huge obstacle - her grief. Now she needs to move forward to activate her powers again, to be the woman she was before. And the good news is, she's already got family behind her."
"And she's aware her father is living inside her very soul," I replied. "So you're the closest to Anna. How do you think we should proceed?"
"Wilbur can start with calming her mind down," Lily explained. "Uncle Leo and the rest of the family can train her with the art of ninjutsu so she can defend herself against everything. You, Mom, and I can train her to use her powers."
"I will suggest this to Wilbur and Uncle Leo," I said with a grin.
"Maybe we should tell Anna when she gets back," Lily suggested.
ANNA'S POV
"Thank you for showing me that," I told my date, patting my bun. "I needed that more than I realized."
"New Year's Day is a chance to do something new," Jasper replied with a smile. "And I understand all this was entirely new to you. I hope I didn't disappoint you."
I smiled.
"You did the opposite, actually. Thank you for listening and for accepting me for who I am. I did have a good time tonight, at the house and in Ivywood. What about you?"
"I enjoyed spending time with you. Now I know we just met, but I like to think that we are already friends."
"You're already my friend, Jasper. After all, I did share my life story with you."
Jasper grinned.
"Do you have a phone?"
"Yes! I think I can share my number by touching your phone with mine. Let's see if it works."
We took out our phones and they touched. I looked on my screen and found Jasper's contact information on it.
"And it's been saved," I announced.
"Same here. You know, for someone being from Middle-Earth, you've handled complex technology really well."
"I'm a fast learner. I've always been a fast learner."
I let out a sigh. I had to admit, I did not want tonight to end.
"When do you fly back out to Chicago?" I asked.
"Well, first I'm returning to Westport with my family," Jasper explained. "I have one more week of Christmas break and then I fly back to Chicago the following Friday."
"You'll have to text me and tell me how it goes."
"I can do that. Now what of you? You just got accepted into law school. What will you do until then?"
"I have enough money saved up to try to find my own place," I explained. "Truly set my roots down here. I got a job at the inpatient hospital Lily worked at, so I'll be there for a while until I get my degree."
"Tell me how it goes."
"Deal."
We shook each other's hands and exchanged smiles. Then I walked in the door to find not only Donnie in the living room, but Lily and James also.
"So, how did it go?" Lily asked with a grin.
"Stop that," I replied, returning the smirk. "It went well, but we're just friends right now. I've never dated before, so I want to take this slow."
"Wait, you like him, like him?" Lily asked, this time with a shocked expression.
"That's a possibility."
"I'd say that's a yes," Donnie said out loud.
I blushed.
"Jasper took me to Ivywood where his father was raised and we exchanged numbers. We're staying in contact."
"Anna, please promise me something," Donnie told me, standing up and putting his hands on my shoulders. "Don't do what I did when I first met my wife. I would follow her everywhere she went, take pictures of her, make unwanted advances, everything... just so that I'd know if she would like me back or not. I learned that the hard way when a creature fell in love with me. Okay?"
"Donnie, I promise I'm fine and I will be fine. If you were my father's son and he found out you did all those things, he'd sit you down for a talking-to. And besides, I'm more worried about Jasper. He seems to be taken with me ever since I bumped into him. And I told him the majority of my life story. I pray he's an honest man."
I paused, realizing something.
"Why do you care so much about what happens to me, Donnie?" I asked.
"I kind of took Karena in as a surrogate daughter after she moved to the future," Donnie replied, rubbing the back of his neck.
"I'm sorry, what?"
I felt confused.
"When you first explained to me and April that you were from Gondor, I immediately thought of Karena. You remember her mentioning that she knew your father?"
"Yes, I remember. But I'm confused as to how she knew him. In that world, he died over one hundred years ago."
"Karena lived in her own dimension, once upon a time, and she only had her father. She moved into her own place and she had bought a television set. But the remote didn't feel right and it took her to so many dimensions, including yours. I, too, fought alongside your parents when I used my own remote to find Karena. Karena met Wilbur during her travels and ultimately decided to move to Todayland to be with him. Everything she knew about merged into one world, and the possibility of dimensional travel became reality."
"Which explains why my father knew about Jesus, and why I somehow ended up here."
"Wait, now I'm confused," Donnie replied. "Jesus didn't exist in Middle-Earth. How did Berethor come to know him?"
"In his dreams while his mind was clouded in shadow. It's something I can't fully explain. If my father was still alive and my world still existed, I'd take you to him. But back to Karena?"
"Karena moved without her father. The only adults in her life were the Robinsons."
"Until I got kidnapped," Lily chimed in. "Then I somehow reunited my dad and Karena and he's been a father-figure to her since. In fact, everyone saw how well my father raised me that my cousins started looking up to him for guidance."
"I guess it's become second nature for me to care about women who do not have fathers," Donnie said with a shrug. "And that's why I care about what happens to you, Anna."
"Donnie, please do not worry about me," I replied with a smile. "I had a very strong father growing up. He's always with me no matter what. But thank you for offering your guidance."
"Anna, Dad and I discussed your training regimen," Lily chimed in.
"Oh, good!" I said happily. "What decision have to come to?"
January 4, 2047 - Westport, Connecticut, USA
RUSSELL'S POV
"Good morning."
I looked up to see my wife walking into the kitchen. I glanced at our daughter, who carried a smile on her face.
"Morning, Mom."
Amy had a concerned glance on her face.
"Is Jasper still in his room?" she asked.
"He's been in his room ever since we got home," I answered with worry. "I hope he's okay."
"Dad, the last time Jasper's done this was when he dated that one girl in high school," Jessi explained. "He was in his room when he started dating her, and then he hid in his room when he broke up with her."
"I remember that," Amy replied. "Jasper was absolutely miserable. Russell, maybe you should check up on him."
"Yeah, okay."
I got up and went up the stairs to our son's room. I knocked on the door, despite the loud music blasting on the other side.
"Hey, it's Dad," I yelled. "Are you okay?"
There was no answer.
"Jasper?"
All I could hear was the music. I shook my head as I opened the door. I found Jasper still lying in his bed. But I could tell he was not asleep. I walked over to his stereo and turned off the music. Jasper, now being aware, flipped onto his other side with a glare on his face.
"Dad! I was listening to that!"
"That can wait for a few minutes," I sternly replied. "Besides, it was too loud. That's bad for your ears. Did you hear me knock?"
"No, I didn't. I wanted to be alone with my thoughts."
"For the last three days?" I asked, raising an eyebrow. "Something's up. What's wrong? Did something happen in Pacific Bay?"
Jasper sighed, releasing his glare.
"I met this... woman in the supermarket while I was getting sparkling wine for New Year's," he hesitantly explained. "We accidentally bumped into each other. Once my eyes fell on her face, I haven't been able to stop thinking about her."
"Was that why you were gone for so long on New Year's Day?" I asked.
"Yes."
Jasper paused, biting his lip.
"I, um, followed this woman home and found out she was living with Lily. So I called her. Anna and I arranged to have dinner together at Lily's place, and it was going really well until she revealed Donnie was sitting in the next room. I took her on a little tour of Ivywood with the Christmas lights, and we continued to have a good time. I... didn't want to come back home."
"Oh, Jasper--"
"But I know, Father, that I have to go back to school and finish my degree. But is there a possibility that I could go back for Pacific Bay for my master's degree?"
"Yes, it is possible," I answered, sitting on the bed next to him. "But don't rush into it. You hardly know this girl."
Jasper bit his lip again.
"She's no girl, Father. She's the most mature woman I've ever met, even more mature than Mom. I was surprised she was willing to tell me the story of her life. Dad, she's alone. She's living with Lily because her family's gone."
I immediately felt sympathy for Anna. I had lived with no family for twelve years. My mother had passed when I was sixteen and I had refused to speak to my father due to my upbringing.
"I want to be her friend, Father," Jasper continued. "And maybe more than that. I see her, and I see my future."
"Well, like I said, Jay, don't rush into it. You're only a sophomore in college. You still have a couple years yet to decide where to practice and what you want to practice. What does Anna do?"
"She's working in an inpatient hospital, but she'll be going to law school next fall."
"She wants to be a lawyer?" I asked, suddenly impressed. "She must be strong-willed, then."
"Can I be her friend, at least?" Jasper asked. "She needs a friend, Dad."
"That's up to you. You're an adult. You no longer need my permission to do things. But I would like to meet Anna someday."
"I think we can arrange that."
"Can we also make an arrangement for you to come to breakfast this morning?" I asked. "Everyone's worried about you."
"Yeah, I suppose that can be arranged," Jasper answered with a smile.
"Good."
I returned the grin.
"Now, get dressed and we'll see you in the dining room, shortly."
I walked out of the room and rejoined the women in the dining room.
"Well, Jessi, you were right," I told my daughter. "Jasper was blasting his music while thinking about a girl."
"Who is she?" Amy asked.
"Her name is Anna. She's been living with Lily for quite a while. Her family's all deceased."
Amy and Jessi frowned.
"That poor girl," Amy replied.
"Is there anything we can do?" Jessi asked.
"No, not right now," I answered. "From what Jasper told me, Anna's very strong-willed. She wants to be a lawyer. I'm sure she's moved on from her grief. Jasper wants to be her friend. When Jasper is ready to introduce her to us, then he'll tell us."
"You're talking as if Anna is going to be more than a friend, Russell," Amy replied.
"Because Jasper has very strong feelings for her. I told him to not rush into it. What will happen? Only God knows."
Pacific Bay, California, USA
LILIANNA'S POV
I knocked on Anna's door.
"Come in."
I opened the door and found Anna lying down on the bed.
"You haven't been very social lately," I spoke with a concerned voice. "Are you okay?"
"I don't know," Anna answered with sadness.
I sat down next to her.
"What's wrong?" I asked.
"I've lived for 202 years and I've never fallen in love before."
My eyes widened. Anna was in love with Jasper?
"Be very careful of your feelings, Anna," I warned her. "My relationship with James started out rocky because I thought he had moved on and had met another girl. Thankfully, it all worked out or else we wouldn't be married."
"That's not helping, Lily. Is it normal to have one human being just stuck in your head all the time?"
I smiled.
"Yes, it is. It's a new stage in a relationship. For me, it was my marriage. Every time I left for work, James was always there in my head. I had smiled all day. I couldn't wait to get home and be with him."
It was Anna's turn to smile.
"How do you feel about Jasper?"
Anna laughed.
"Maybe this is this puppy love Father talked about," she explained. "You get one glimpse of a man or woman and you're immediately in love, like this person is the only thing in your head. I've known every boy and man in Minas Tirith and I've never had those feelings. But then Jasper took me to Ivywood the other day and there was this look on his face that I just... loved so much. The way he looked at me and the way he looked at those Christmas lights."
Anna shook her head.
"But I remember my father also warning me. He always said if there's a man you know you could love someday, I want to meet him and see if he's right for you."
Anna suddenly started crying.
"I want Jasper to meet my father, but he's dead! What do I do now?"
I pulled Anna into my arms and let her cry into my chest.
"Shh, it'll be alright," I soothed her. "You know, my dad's offer about being a surrogate father still stands. And I know Jasper's father Russell. He's more mild, but he cares just as much as your father about the wellbeing of his children. He may tell Jasper the same thing your father told you."
Anna dryly laughed.
"Right," she sarcastically replied. "How old is your father, 50?"
I blinked. My dad was turning 50 this year!
"Your guess will actually be correct in September. Holy cow!"
"What's wrong?" Anna asked, sitting up to face me, still with tears in her green eyes.
"I never imagined my dad being 50! I don't think any of us imagined our fathers being 50."
Anna smiled.
"I'm sensing some kind of plan for celebration going through your head."
I smacked my head. I had forgotten Anna had the gift of foresight.
"Would you like to help?" I asked.
"Absolutely!" she replied, suddenly very eager.
"I'll text my cousins and we'll figure out a place to meet."
January 5, 2047 - Todayland, North Montana, USA
ATHENA'S POV
I had received a text from Lily to meet at the Robinson's mansion. I went into the dining room to see Ryan and Justine already there with little Isamu.
"Hi!" I exclaimed giddily.
Justine glanced up and squealed. She ran up to me and we embraced.
"It's so good to see you again, Justine!" I told her.
"Are you going to say that every single time we see each other?" Justine asked with a smirk.
"Yes! We're family. Even a day apart is not enough."
We chuckled before we heard cooing from the baby.
"Hi, Isamu!" I greeted him in a high-pitched voice. "How are you doing? It's Aunt Athena."
"Ah?" Isamu asked curiously.
He held his hands out. I couldn't help but pick him up and hold him. Isamu had a big smile on his face. Then I lightly tossed him in the air and he started to giggle, enjoying the moment.
"You are so good with kids, Athena," I heard Justine tell me. "Have you ever had experience with them?"
"Actually, no. I've just always found babies to be cute. I remember my dad would not stop gushing over me when I was a baby and he became my world. My dad taught me at a young age to enjoy the little things."
Justine and Ryan smiled.
"Would you be open to babysitting sometime?" Ryan asked.
"Of course! My nights are pretty much open starting next summer."
"Oh?" Justine replied. "What's changing?"
"I found out I've been assigned to student teach and shadow a history teacher at Todayland High School."
"Athena, that's wonderful!" Lily yelled excitedly from across the room.
I gave Isamu back to his mother and then I gave Lily and James a hug. When I finished hugging James, I noticed tears in Lily's eyes. Lily looked out with small frown on her face.
"Lily, are you okay?" I asked.
"Hmm?"
Lily turned to face me.
"Oh, I'm sorry. I got distracted."
She wiped her eyes and then put her brown contacts back in them.
"Is it about Isamu?" I asked.
Lily shook her head.
"I'm sorry, but I'd rather not talk about it."
Lily walked towards the French doors where Justine, Isamu, and Ryan were standing. I then turned around to see Anna walking in. I hugged her and she returned the embrace.
"I hope you enjoyed your stay with us, Anna."
"I had a wonderful time!" Anna replied with a smile. "New York is a beautiful city. I especially enjoyed the 9/11 Memorial and Museum and going into the World Trade Center. You know, my father had told me about the Siege of Minas Tirith and about how the city was flooded with orcs before the Rohirrim came to help us. There was lots of death, but hope lingered on. And the same thing happened in New York. Hope lingered on."
"That's right. Minas Tirith was also on fire. Well, at least the city didn't fall."
"Amen, my friend."
"Which would you say was more devastating, the siege in Minas Tirith or the 9/11 attacks?"
Anna pondered for a moment, comparing the two outcomes.
"The 9/11 attacks," she answered. "The Twin Towers were a symbol of America and they were destroyed with the attempt to cripple hope for these citizens. But this all could have been prevented, had more safety measures been in place. Measures in the airports. Measures in those towers, like more ways for citizens to run to safety. Both attacks had heavy casualties, but America suffered more than Gondor. America still has a long way to go to become the country she was before."
"We were all born around the 2024 presidential election," I explained. "Lily was born during it. America was very heavily divided back then and not because of 9/11. Those attacks brought America together. But then the very people we elected to protect us became divided and angry at each other, and as a result, so were we. My father noticed this early and he was actually hesitant about going to culinary school and opening up his restaurant because no one was getting along. I mean, we already had this conflict with the Foot Clan with Shredder in charge. Shredder wanted our entire clan to be gone and would do everything to achieve that. Uncle Leo had finally taken out Shredder and we thought we could relax."
I chuckled.
"I was very surprised that mutant law passed when it did before any of us were born. I mean, robots have rights now, right? So why not mutants? But I noticed while going through life in high school that mutants still have the hardest life because we're not like anyone else and that scares people, especially the politicians."
"And that is something we have been working on for years," Wilbur chimed in, walking through the door. "My dad was a key factor in having that mutant bill be passed into law. He did this on behalf of Donatello, who, too, possessed knowledge on how to make the world a better place. Only three cities have really opened up to mutants: New York City, Pacific Bay, and Todayland. People still get nervous about seeing a mutant."
Wilbur then smiled at me.
"That reminds me, Athena, has anyone told you about my workplace?"
"Yes, Lily and my mother both. My mother explained that Amy already sees me as someone who can make a difference and it's something I want to do. I've been learning Latin on Duolingo so that I can be the teacher T.I.M.E. needs me to be."
"That's good! You graduate next spring, right?"
"Yes, and I do have plans to return to New York. My family is important to me."
"Keep me posted!" Wilbur replied. "And maybe keep your mom posted, too. It will finally help her be promoted into the team coordinator position."
"Hi, everyone!" Venus yelled from the door.
"Oh, good!" Lily replied. "Everyone's here! Please take a seat!"
We all sat down. I ended up sitting between Venus and Anna.
"So Anna has brought to my attention that our fathers are turning 50 this year," Lily explained.
My eyes widened as we all murmured amongst each other.
"I want to surprise them with the best Mutation Day party possible," Lily continued. "But I need your help to pull this off."
"I've already found out that September 27th falls on a Friday this year," Anna chimed in. "Which means everyone may be able to spend the weekend in New York to celebrate. But we'll need more information on what goes on in your lives. Lily, let's start with you."
"My dad's still going strong as a professor at Todayland University and my mom's still at Channel 6 News. But keep in mind that Todayland is an hour behind New York. My dad's shift is over at four o'clock Central Time while my mom's shift ends at five o'clock Eastern Time."
"So their shifts end at the same time?"
"That's correct," Lily replied. "Now, in California, my shift ends at five also, but it'll be eight o'clock in New York. I can easily take paid leave for that weekend."
"And the same goes for me," James chimed in. "Anna, what about you?"
"My shift ends at five-thirty, and yes, I can take paid leave."
"Ryan, what do you know about your family?" Lily asked.
"Both my parents have their own schools," Ryan explained. "But they don't get out until seven-thirty."
"Perfect!" Lily exclaimed happily. "Leonardo is the key person to distract here. And what if you and Justine?"
"I've been busy with grad school and nursing school," Justine explained with a yawn. "I'm amazed I still have time to be with little Isamu."
"I'm graduating Todayland University this year," Ryan chimed in. "But instead of pursuing my career, I'll be staying home with Isamu."
"Really?" Lily asked with surprise. "Well, okay. Venus?"
"My mother stayed at home to watch our family," Venus explained. "But ever since I started going to college, she's been spending lost time with the Mighty Mutanimals. My father's a detective with the New York Police Department and often works late hours."
"We need to figure out a way for Raphael to work earlier hours."
"I might have an idea," Wilbur chimed in. "Amy often works with Raph to be sure the city is safe. If I can get Amy's permission, I can give Raph a tour of T.I.M.E. headquarters during the day and that'll be his shift."
"Do that!" Anna replied. "And let us know what happens. And Athena?"
"My dad works late at his pizzeria," I explained. "His restaurant closes at eleven. And my mom works at T.I.M.E., too. She usually gets home around six. Wait. Is there a reason why we're sharing all of this when we've known each other all our lives?"
"Keep in mind, Athena, that I haven't been living in New York since I was a teenager," Lily replied. "With that said, the reason why it's only us is because our mothers are guaranteed to tell our fathers about this party and we don't want anyone knowing about it. This is our secret for 2047."
"It's going to be hard to keep this from ninjas," Justine replied.
"We are ninjas, too," Lily firmly responded. "We will have to be just as stealthy to pull this off. Now, someone's going to have to keep my dad in Todayland for a little bit while we get things set up in the lair."
"Why not set up a date for him and April at the Cheesecake Factory?" Wilbur suggested. "It would be his birthday after all."
"Yes!" Anna exclaimed happily, jotting the idea down. "Okay, now Ryan, you mentioned Leonardo and Karai are teaching until seven-thirty. Lily, is this enough time?"
"Yes. We need to get Uncle Mikey home, too."
"Oh, Dad's gonna be home, alright," I replied nonchalantly. "He always takes September 27th off for Mutation Day."
"Uh-oh," Anna and Lily said at the same time.
"Wait, I know!" Anna exclaimed. "What if one of us went over to his pizzeria and convinced him to make pizzas for a surprise birthday party?"
"Wouldn't it ruin the surprise?" I asked.
"Only if we had told him it was for his birthday party," Anna answered with a grin. "From what I know about Michelangelo, he'd do anything for his family. He'll totally fall for the surprise party gig, even if it is his own and he just doesn't know it."
"And plus it does give him more business," Lily chimed in.
"I got it!" I exclaimed. "I'll keep my dad in the kitchen while he has customers. I'll take their orders and he'll make both the surprise pizzas and the pizzas that are ordered."
"How are you going to do that?" Venus asked with a raised eyebrow. "You have school that day."
"I'll fly to New York after class and take a taxi to the pizzeria. Knowing my dad, it will not take him that long to make pizzas for the family."
"Well, if you're flying to New York, then so will I," Venus replied. "Maybe I can drag my mother to see the Mighty Mutanimals. I'm due for a visit anyway."
"You just gave me another idea," Wilbur chimed back in. "After I finish giving Raph a tour, I'll ask Raph to give me a tour of his workplace. Of course now, I have to get Karena involved."
"No, this is good!" Lily replied. "We trust Karena. And besides, Karena can help me, James, and Anna decorate the lair."
"What about Diana?" Wilbur asked. "She's only a toddler."
"But she'll be old enough to sit alone, right?" Lily asked. "She's turning two next month."
"I suppose," Wilbur hesitantly answered, rubbing the back of his neck.
"If it helps you any, the three of us will fly to Todayland, too," Ryan said. "I'll watch the kids while Justine helps decorate."
"Okay, awesome!" Lily enthusiastically replied. "We got the distractions in place already. "Now all we need to do is figure out decorations, the food, and the cake. Just remember to be stealthy about this. We want this to be a party for the history books."
We continued to discuss and exchange ideas amongst ourselves to bring this party to life until it was time for us to resume our normal lives.
