The girls just wanted to see their treasured friend again – and help her take a baby step. That’s all it was supposed to be!

This was an alternate opening to the story that I submitted for the New Year’s Resolution contest. My muse has finally revealed that this was to be a story all its own.

Disclaimers
* No characters were harmed in the making of this story.
* This story is not related to that of Lilli from my earlier story, Budding Lilli.

My alarm sounded at 5am, which was standard on a workday. I flapped at it and managed to shut if off after three clumsy swipes. Alarm silenced, I twisted my head round to find the other side of the bed vacant. This was strange because my wife, Tessa, was not usually an early riser. Oh well, hopefully she was downstairs preparing me some breakfast.

“Are you regretting changing schools and majors?” she asked.

“No. I still think this is the right thing to do. I’ve been volunteering at the hospital when I have time to spare from studying, and the more I do that, the more sure I am that I want to be a nurse.”

I was distracted all afternoon, worried about the fallout from last night’s disaster. Would Alice tell anyone, and if so, how would the rumors mutate? How would Emily react?

 
As I rounded the corner and walked towards my cubicle I felt as if I was being watched. Not unusual, you’re thinking, because people always watch people, especially as they come to work. Well, in my case I ceased to be watched just after being hired. That was three long hard years ago. I kept to myself, did my work and talked to no one about anything other than work.
 

Alex's jewelry business was gaining traction, thanks in large part to the invaluable support of her fellow consorts. They admired her designs and often showcased her pieces at events and social gatherings. Morgan, in particular, played a significant and irreplaceable role in promoting Alex's work. As a popular singer, Morgan's choice to wear Alex's custom jewelry during her performances was a game-changer, attracting attention and sparking interest in the unique designs.

Budget Auto Repair, Gardena, California:
Rose looks at the time and notices that she has been up all night. She has to start prepping the shop for opening. She makes sure everything is shut down, before leaving her forensics lab. It was a good thing she used to be a forensics researcher before she was changed.

Rose turns on the air compressor and makes some fresh coffee for her employees. She goes about unlocking the garage doors and assigning the repairs to the right mechanic. By the time her employees start showing up for work. She had the place ready.

Time Jump Being Mom in the Past

“We know they like being us, or they wouldn’t keep taking jekyllase. We just have to point out that they’ll get more benefit from being us if they change at a convenient time for us to meet up.”

Patience was not one of my virtues. I was getting antsy and wanted to stretch my legs on the surface, yearning to see what my home was like after all the time I'd been away. The desire to see familiar sights and perhaps even visit my parents was overwhelming. We were so close to them now.

The anticipation of my upcoming visit was palpable in my voice as I asked Minsha, "Would you like to see my home here on Terra?"

Minsha looked at me, her eyes sparkling with curiosity. "I would love to see it, Kara. It sounds wonderful."

I forgot we were holding hands ...