Maximus Seventeen: Friendly Advice

Patrick and I are sitting around talking when Dustin comes over. Patrick follows me to the door and looks at Dustin, then tells me that he thinks Dustin looks sad. I'm pretty impressed with Patrick being able to tell that because Dustin is smiling. Another thing I've noticed about Patrick since he was rescued is that he's become very observant about other people, and he can accurately tell what they're feeling most of the time just by looking at them. In a way, it was something good that came from him being kidnapped. Dustin looks different, he's gotten a haircut and he's gotten rid of the stubble he's had ever since I met him.

"Hey, dude, what's up? You look so different."

"Haha, yeah, Helena thought I needed a makeover. She thought the longer hair and stubble wasn't professional or something. I kind of liked it, but I guess, you know, it's not a big deal, so I changed it. Just thought I'd swing by before work to chat with you. I haven't seen you in a month or two."

"Yeah, man. How's the new house?"

"It's pretty good. Helena had a lot of fun decorating it. We've been doing a lot of home improvement store shopping."

"You let Helena do all the decorating? It's not all frilly and girly, is it? Haha, I'm just kidding, dude."

"Yeah, I know. I figured since she wants to be a stay at home wife that she could have the house look the way she wants it to. I think she's kind of depressed though, despite all the stuff I've been doing for her. I thought she'd be happy, but I don't know what's wrong with her. I've asked her, but most times she just ignores me. I wonder if she's regretting marrying me or something."

"Aw, no dude, don't go there. The last thing you need is to doubt yourself. Helena said yes, that's what you have to remember, okay? Believe me, she didn't ever take wanting to be married lightly. She's always talked about it, even when we were teenagers. She's always wanted to be married. She'd never regret that. Just give her some time to tell you whatever it is that's bothering her."

"Thanks, Max, I knew coming over and talking to you was going to make me feel better."

"You're welcome. How is she adjusting to your work schedule?"

"Well, I made it so I wouldn't have any big out of town projects for about six months to a year so I could get settled in to my house and so I could spend time with Helena. I'm going to have to figure that out with her when the time comes. Max, do you think Helena would open up to a girl about her problems?"

"Maybe. It could be that she just misses Soleil. In fact, Soleil told me Helena called and said she'd been invited over to your guys' house to hang out today."

"See? That's what I mean, Max. I wish Helena would communicate with me. She always makes me tell her everything about what I'm doing, where I'm going, who I'm hanging out with, but then she never tells me anything when I ask her. It seems like Soleil tells you everything."

"Not to brag, but that is the truth. Soleil and I tell each other everything."

"I wish Helena could get over some of her insecurities long enough to not be scared to tell me things."

---

Never in a million years did I expect to see what I saw when I went over to Helena and Dustin's house and saw Helena. The entire time I had known her she had long hair, but now she barely had any hair on her head. It didn't look bad, but I wondered why she did it. She had always complained that she didn't feel confident in her appearance, but she never really took my advice any time I went shopping with her to pick new clothes out. Maybe her new hairstyle gave her confidence. At least I hoped it did.

"Hi Soleil. Thanks for coming over."

"You're welcome. How's married life?"

"It's good. I love being Mrs. Xavier, although I am a little saddened to get back to regular life. The honeymoon was great, and I loved Hawaii. Dustin makes plenty of money, which is great cause I can just stay at home and be a wife and mother."

"It sounds like you have everything you finally wanted, Helena."

"Well, I'm not pregnant yet, and I've been a little scared to ask Dustin about it."

"Why? Does he not like children?"

"No, that's not it, but I don't know. It's like I'm not sure that he'll be as excited as I am because of what happened with Patrick, like he might think I'll lose our child if we have one. I'm scared he'll say no because he doesn't trust me."

"Helena, if Dustin knows that you want to be a mother, I'm sure he's not just going to flat out say no to you. He loves you, he wouldn't deny something to you that was that important, you know? Have you talked to him about it?"

"No, I've actually been kind of depressed because of it. I mean, we're doing, you know, that, but it's not like we're purposely trying to have a baby."

"I think then, in that case, you need to tell Dustin about it, even if you're scared. He's your husband, he'll comfort you, and it's obvious you guys are not hard up for cash, so you can definitely afford the costs that come with having a baby. Your house is beautiful, by the way."

"Oh yeah? You think so? Thank you, Soleil."

"Yeah! You're welcome."

"How have you and Max been since my wedding? Have you given any thought to getting married yourself?"

"We've been good, and no, we're not getting married. We're happy with things the way they are."

"Really? Every time I saw someone else get married, I always felt a pang of sadness because I wasn't."

"Yes, really. Max and I are together, and that's what's important to me. What's with your hair, Helena? You've had it long ever since I've known you."

"Oh, I don't know. I thought it looked more grown up."

"Has Dustin seen it yet?"

"Yeah, we both went to get haircuts at the same time. I thought we both needed new looks since we're married now."

I don't really understand Helena, but I know the urge to change something happens to a lot of people when they make a big life decision. Personally if I had to pick a life change, I would go the route of dyeing my hair rather than cutting it all off, but I'm respecting Helena's choice. I'm not going to argue with her over something so trivial.

"Well, Helena, I better get back home. Patrick will be off school in about an hour, and Max is at work. It was good seeing you."

"Thanks, Soleil, for coming over. I know I haven't always been the best friend you deserve."

"It's okay, we're good now. Don't worry about it, honey."

---

After Soleil left, I sat on my couch for a long while thinking about what she had said. She's right, I shouldn't be scared to tell Dustin anything, he's my husband. I don't even know why I'm always so scared all the time, but I think I just don't trust anyone. I just assume they're all going to hate me, so I push them away as a defense mechanism. I need to trust that Dustin won't just leave me if I tell him things that are bothering me. The clock on my phone says it's almost five o'clock, which is when Dustin gets off work. He should be back in about thirty minutes, so I should start dinner.

As I go into the kitchen, I think about what I should make for dinner. I had gone grocery shopping the other day, and there were plenty of things to choose from. I finally decide on fettucine alfredo and am still cooking when I hear the front door open. I guess he's back early, which I adore.

"Hi, Helena!"

"Dustin! I'm in the kitchen."

When I feel Dustin's arms around me, I don't even know why I was scared of talking to him.

"Hello, Mrs. Xavier. Dinner smells wonderful, just like you."

"Aww, thank you, Mr. Xavier. How was hanging out with Max? Did you boys have fun?"

"Yes we did. He helped me work through some things. He also said you hung out with Soleil today?"

"That's right. She and I talked and made me realize that I shouldn't be shutting you out. I've just been scared of pushing you away."

"Does that mean you're ready to talk about why you've been depressed?"

"Yeah, over dinner. Does that sound okay?"

"Of course. I've been trying to figure out why you're sad, as you know, by asking you what's wrong, but you just ignored me. Max said if I just gave you space and let you come tell me when you are ready, then it might work better. You don't need to be scared, either. I love you, Helena."

"Oh Dustin, I'm sorry. I don't want to ignore you. I love you too."

"All right. What's going on?"

"I want to start actively trying to have a baby."

"That sounds good."

"Really? You're not going to fight me on it?"

"Um, no. Why would I fight you about this?"

"I don't know. I just thought you'd think me incapable of taking care of a child since I lost Patrick that day."

"No, honey. I think your jealousy needs to not be first priority, especially when there is a child around, but I never thought you were incapable."

I can't believe how lucky I am. A few years ago, I was just the awkward girl in the corner, not able to talk to any of the guys or hold a relationship for longer than two weeks, but now, I am married to a wonderful man and going to start a family with him. I finally am on the way to getting everything I've ever wanted.

Read More

Maximus Sixteen: Wedding Bells

Guest Starring: Alexander Hunt by mrsoogieboogie

It's about 7am in the morning. Helena and I came early to the church and are in the bridal room getting ready.  I'm going to help her with her hair and makeup. The boys will arrive here at 9am so that Helena wouldn't run into Dustin before the wedding because she was really adamant about that. They were given instructions to stay downstairs until the wedding. Helena's sitting on the chair looking into the mirror, like she should be, when all of a sudden, she hangs her head and looks depressed.

"Helena? What's the matter?"

"I wish I knew my father, Soleil. I wish he was here to see me get married, but instead, my slutty mother just had a one night stand with him and dumped him."

Helena's never gotten along with her mother because of their lifestyle differences. I know that's why Helena has such strict morals, she never wanted to become like her mother. I always thought her mother was a very kind person, but Helena couldn't get over her mother's behavior long enough to see past it and get to know her at all.

"Well, Helena, you have a bunch of people today who are here to see you get married, and we all support you. Besides, Alex is walking you down the aisle, so it's not like you'll have to walk the aisle all alone."

"Yeah, I guess. It's just hitting me hard today cause it's like my father probably doesn't even know he has a daughter. My mother never told the guys she slept with that she was pregnant, she just raised us herself, depriving us of our fathers."

"I don't know, Helena, your mother sounds like a strong lady. It's not an easy task raising a child, even with a partner. I think you should give her more credit."

"She brings it on herself though!"

I try not to laugh out loud at Helena since more than half of the time, Helena is bringing things on herself, and it is so ironic that she would say that sentence. I finish styling Helena's hair, putting some jeweled hair clips in her hair, and the tiara she had bought.

"Helena, you look gorgeous. I just need to do your makeup now."

"Thank you so much, Soleil. You really made my hair pretty, but it's still modest and not too out there."

"You're welcome. I picked up some tips from the stylists who do my hair for photo shoots. Did Dustin tell you where your honeymoon will be?"

"Yeah, he's taking me to Hawaii. I'm excited."

The sanctuary of the Silicon Shores Cathedral was decorated with some candles and flowers up towards the front, and a long aisle runner in yellow ran down the middle. Helena had picked white and yellow for her wedding colors. There weren't very many guests, mainly because Helena didn't have very many friends. Dustin had invited Luther and Noelle, whom Helena surprisingly approved to be on the guest list, I'm guessing because she didn't have many friends.

When the time came to start the wedding, I called Max to check on Dustin's whereabouts to see if it was safe to bring Helena downstairs just outside the sanctuary doors. Max gave me the all clear, so I brought Helena downstairs where Max, Alex, and Patrick were waiting in the foyer of the cathedral.

"Helena, you look beautiful."

"Thank you, Alex. Thanks so much for walking me down the aisle."

"Of course. I'm happy to help."

"Max, where's Dustin? He won't see me before, right?"

"Don't worry, Helena, Dustin's in the sanctuary already. You look amazing today. Just stand off to the side by that fireplace when the doors open."

---

When Soleil and Helena came into the room, I couldn't get over how hot Soleil looked. I also don't think I'd ever seen Helena look so nice. The old organ music started playing, so Soleil and I knew that was our cue to go in and join Dustin at the front of the cathedral.

After we made our way to the front, Patrick came in. He looked so adorable in his tiny tuxedo. He came over and stood by me.

Bridal music started playing and Helena was led into the cathedral by Dad. I was in awe of him and his willingness to be a part of my life. Just because Helena was my sister, Dad didn't hesitate to help her out in a time of need.

Dad walked up to the front with Helena, and took his seat after handing her off to Dustin. They chose not to write their own vows, opting for the traditional church vows since Helena is deeply religious. After the exchanging of the rings, they shared their first kiss as husband and wife.

The wedding was sweet and I was happy for my best friend and my sister. Helena had wanted to get married and have her own family for as long as I can remember, so I was glad that she was finally getting to fulfill that dream. The reception was held out on the back part of the cathedral, and it consisted of dinner and dessert.

The view from the patio was gorgeous. The cathedral towered over the entire city, and I felt like I was on top of the world. After dinner was over, and the cake had been cut, I noticed Soleil over by the railing, probably admiring the skyline. I walked up behind her and hugged her around her waist.

"Soleil, are you all right?"

"Yeah I guess. I'm just tired. I've been up since like 6:00 this morning. It's been a long day."

Soleil tucks a strand of hair behind her ear and turns around to face me. We wrap our arms around each other and just look out at the city.

"We have a great life, don't we, Maximus?"

"Yeah, I think so. Soleil, are you sure you're all right? You seem sad."

"I feel old. Patrick's already in school, and I guess I just feel like before I know it, he'll be sixteen, and I'll be old."

"Oh baby, it's okay. I know what you mean, people who have children sometimes seem older than those who don't. We were really young when we had him, though, so we've still got the rest of our lives ahead of us."

"Max, I love you so much."

"I love you too."

Someone taps me on my shoulder, and I turn around to see Helena. She wants to do wedding photos now while all the city lights are vibrant and she can get the best view. I hug Soleil tight and kiss her cheek, then we walk hand in hand to finish our duties as best man and maid of honor.

---

Since this is a wedding chapter, I thought I'd end it with a bunch of wedding photos. I hope you enjoy them.

Mr. and Mrs. Dustin and Helena Xavier

Best Man and Maid of Honor

Whole Wedding Party

Bride and Maid of Honor

Best Man and Groom

Groom, Best Man, and Ring Bearer

Read More

Maximus Fifteen: Renewed Friendship

Soleil and I spend most of our nights sitting together wondering when we'll get news about Patrick. It's only been a few days since he's gone missing, but his birthday is tomorrow, and it's making the fact that he's not here even harder. We've both been going to work still, despite it, and trying not to let this incident consume us to the point where we can't function. Tonight is just another one of those nights where we're sitting together trying to make each other feel better. Tonight is different though because the doorbell rang.

Soleil and I looked at each other, nervous about whether we would be getting news about Patrick, and then more nervous about what that news would be. Even though he had come into our lives accidentally, we were glad that he had. Soleil squeezed my hand tightly before we both got up and approached the door. I put my hand on the doorknob and turned it.

"Look who I found!"

To our relief, Luther walked in with Patrick. Apparently everything I had told him about Jade that day was enough to locate her crazy ass. It turns out she was trying to use Patrick to get me to be with her, which was a really stupid plan.

"Daddy! Mommy! I missed you!"

"Thank you so much, Luther!"

"It's my pleasure, even though it's just another day in the line of duty for me."

Luther hands Patrick off to me and says he has to get back to work. He's definitely stayed one of my good friends despite our less than smooth introduction when we first met.

In the months that followed Patrick's return, he was unwilling to go outside and he no longer asked to go to the park. I didn't blame him for not wanting to, but I hoped that he would figure out a way, in time, to get over his fear. Soleil and I don't want to baby him because we feel like it wouldn't benefit his growth at all. Patrick behaved and went to school, but he always played inside after he got home, even if I suggested we go outside to play catch.

---

"Patrick, are you okay? How was school today?"

"Yes, Momma. I'm okay. School was the usual."

"Daddy and I noticed you don't play outside any more. Are you afraid?"

"Actually, yes. I don't want someone to take me away again."

"Patrick, I know that a bad thing happened to you on one of the times you went outside, but you remember all those other times when it was fine, right? I mean, do you remember?"

"Yes I think so. It's not a very strong memory, but I remember you and Daddy taking me to the park and having fun. I guess I just thought that since I'm bigger now and I can keep myself safe that it would be better for me to just stay inside."

"Well, Daddy told me that you don't want to go outside even if he's going to be there. Do you feel like he wouldn't be able to protect you?"

"Um, yes, I mean, I think he would protect me. I guess I just wasn't ready yet."

"Okay, that makes sense. Daddy and I don't want to push you if you aren't ready, but can you promise me that you will try to learn how to play outside again? Going outside every once in a while is good for your body. You don't have to stay for very long if you get scared, and one of us will be there with you, but I don't want you to grow up knowing nothing but living in fear."

"Oh. Okay. I'll try."

"Thank you, baby. You're a good boy."

I felt a lot better after my talk with Patrick and told Max about it. I had hoped for the most part Patrick would be fine, but I wasn't surprised that he had a little bit of emotional damage from being kidnapped. I knew that he wouldn't have escaped completely unscathed suffering something traumatic like that at such a young age, but I had wishful thinking, I suppose. I did think that he seemed pretty normal considering what happened.

Helena and I are going dress shopping, and it's the first time since that day that I will be hanging out with her for the whole day. I hope she doesn't drive me too crazy. I'm trying to be as supportive as I can because for once, this day is about her.

"I don't know about this one. I don't like the black. I should be wearing all white. Don't you think so?"

"Well, Helena, if it were me, I wouldn't be too worried about the color thing, but if you don't like it, you should try something else on."

"I don't like how tight it is, either."

"Oh, Helena, you look so pretty in that dress."

"It seems too flashy."

"Are you kidding me? Helena, your wedding day is all about you. You can be as flashy as you want! You need to have some confidence in yourself."

"Okay, but I have one more to try on and then it's your turn."

The third dress Helena put on fit her like a charm. She looked so pretty in it, and from the look on her face, she liked it just as much as I did.

"Soleil! This is it. This is my dress. It's all white, and I don't feel fat in it."

"You look beautiful, Helena."

"Okay Soleil, it's your turn. I have two dresses I picked out for you."

"What do you think?"

"Hmm... it looks good on you, but let's face it, a paper bag would look good on you, Soleil."

"Ha. Helena, thank you for the compliment. I'll try the other one on and then you can choose."

"I think I like this one better. It looks more formal than the other one."

"Okay."

"Is Patrick still okay with being the ring bearer?"

"Yes, he's fine with it."

Helena looks down at the floor. Over time, she has actually come to understand that it was her fault that Patrick disappeared, causing a feeling of guilt to consume her any time his name is brought up in a conversation.

"Helena, it's okay. I already forgave you for what happened. You don't have to worry. Patrick doesn't have any ill feelings towards you. See? He's fine."

I looked over at Patrick, who had been doing his homework while sitting by one of the big mirrors. We were going to get his tuxedo fitted today as well.

"Patrick? Babe, are you at a stopping point so we can pick a tuxedo for you?"

"Yeah, sure, Momma. OoOoo, Aunt Helena, can I look like James Bond?"

Helena laughs as she looks through the racks of clothes. I think she's lightened up a little bit because of her upcoming wedding. She's still got that low self esteem and guilt that creep up once in a while, but she seems a little happier these days.

"Well, Patrick, I'll see what I can do about that."

When Patrick came out of the fitting room, he ran towards the mirror and had a very surprised look on his face.

"Aunt Helena! This is perfect! Can we get it? Can I wear it to your wedding?"

"Of course you can. I picked it out, so it means I like it too. You look great, Patrick."

"Thank you so much, Aunt Helena!"

After we all picked out our wedding attire, we headed to the cash register to pay for the clothes. I was glad that I had a day with Helena and Patrick that went smoothly, and I had renewed hope for my friendship with Helena as well as knowing Patrick was going to be okay.

Read More