Brook - Gen 6 Ch 10

We sent Andee to the science academy, not the least reason being that her cousin Shawn attended there as well. He agreed to watch out for her at school, which took a large worry off my mind.

Every day after school she worked on her grandpa Ren's garden, planting Renoit grapevines, and repainting the old bar that had been by the pool. I have to admit, she has a talent for it.

"This is perfect, Andee. I'm sure your grandpa would have loved it."

"Thank you papa. He does love it. He told me so."

It became a favorite place for us to hang out in the afternoons.

"Don't forget about the Simcademy Award Ceremony tonight, Andee."

"I won't, I'm going to go work on my homework so I'll be ready."

"And don't forget to put your dress back on before we leave."

"sigh... yes, papa."

Best Actor in a Leading Role! Yes, he had done it! We were all so proud when they called Brann's name, and he walked up to the podium for his acceptance speech. I started to tear up when he said he couldn't have done it without me.

"Congratulations, we are so proud of you. That was an amazing speech."

We then headed across the street to the White Rose Nectar Bar for a reception and media event.

Since it was Cindy's birthday, we had a small celebration at the White Rose before the press and guests arrived.

"Happy Birthday, Cindy!"

We didn't have long before the whole town it seemed descended on us, everyone clamoring for Brann's attention.

Andee was fascinated by all the autograph signing. She still had a hard time wrapping her mind around the concept of why people wanted her papa Brann's signatures on little bits of paper.

But still she tried to get into the spirit of the event, almost knocking the autograph out of the excited fan's hand in the process.

"Psst, Cindy, why is that man taking pictures of me?" Andee whispered to her sister. Before Cindy could reply, they were interrupted by the photographer.

"Hello, ladies! Just a few questions for the young lady. Is this a new fashion trend? The barefoot look?  I want to hear all about it."

Andee glanced at Cindy for help. I started to make my way over to intervene, but stopped when Cindy handled the situation with aplomb.

"Why yes, haven't you heard? It's the newest thing. My, you are behind the times, aren't you."

There were a few more rough moments, but by the end of the evening, Andee was handling the attention like a pro.

It wasn't long after Cindy's birthday that she left for France to spend some time with Maurice. And it wasn't long after that she called to ask us to join her there - for her wedding.

It was a whirlwind trip, as Brann was busy with a new movie, but there was no way we were going to miss our little girl's wedding day. I wondered how Andee would react to the modern day changes to the island she had been raised on, but she took it all in stride.

She did close her eyes for a few seconds as we arrived. "I can feel them here. But they are happy now. Hyacinth is pleased."

It was so good to see Cindy again.

"Daddy, Papa, Andee! I'm so happy to see you guys! Pardon Maurice, he's on a roll with his new book, he has to write when the inspiration hits."

It was a beautiful ceremony by the pond. Cindy was radiant, and the weather was perfect.

The guest list was family only - Maurice's parents the Durand's were there, and of course Mathilde and Heather. And Andee remembered to wear a dress, always a plus.

As they kissed for the first time as husband and wife, I felt such a thrill of happiness for them. I hope Andee can find the same happiness someday.

Andee was making fast friends with Heather. I don't think I ever remember seeing Heather so happy. From what I could catch of the conversation, the main topic appeared to be the ancient Hyacinth.

"You knew her when she was alive?"

"I did. but I haven't seen her since I was a little girl. Not until last night that is! It was so good to talk to her again! Do you know why they left this place, in the old times?"

"Hyacinth told me once. She said someone named Delven bought the land, to plant a vineyard, and they were forced to leave."

I didn't mean to listen in, but.. Delven? That was my ancestor Gustave's family name, if I'm not mistaken. Could it be?

As the reception wound down, Cindy and Maurice cornered me to talk.

"Daddy, we have decided to stay here. I love it here, it's so inspiring for my art. We want to live in the cottage, is that okay with you? Mom like her privacy, but we will be close in case she ever needs help. What do you think?"

"Of course, sweetheart. You know we'll miss you, but we want you to be happy."

It was a bittersweet goodbye the next morning, knowing we wouldn't see Cindy again for a while, but also secure in the knowledge she and Maurice were so happy together.

Home again, Andee seems to have found someone special - another of the widespread Lessen clan, his name is Charles. 

When I went to call her in that night, I stopped short out of earshot when I saw her lean in to plant a little kiss on his face, then I returned to the house. They deserved their privacy.

Colt's and his family came to celebrate Andee's birthday, but we were all disappointed that Cindy and Maurice couldn't be there. Nevertheless, it was an exciting time. Our little girl, all grown up.

I had known from the day she stepped through the time portal into our life, that she would inherit the pendant, but now it was time to put that plan into action.

"May it lead you to what you seek."

"Oh, Papa. It led me to you. I wonder where it will lead me next?" Her eyes shone with excitement for a second.

Then her expression grew suddenly serious.

"I hope I can prove myself worthy. It's such an honor."
I smiled at her.

"Don't worry about that, sweetheart. You don't have to prove anything. Just be yourself, and let the pendant guide you, and you'll be fine. Trust me."

"Yes, Papa. I will."