Chapter 1 — Dion's arrived

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The Unforeseen Melody

Narrator: Deep within every heart, a familiar rhythm beats: the yearning for love. Yet, life's unpredictable symphony sometimes throws discordant notes our way, leaving us bruised and hesitant to open ourselves to the melody once more.

Perhaps it was a single, shattering experience, a love story violently ripped apart, its echo still resonating in the caverns of our soul. Or maybe, it was the relentless sting of repeated disappointments, a chorus of empty promises and broken connections. Whatever the cause, a heavy silence descends, and we vow to ourselves, "Never again."

The once starry-eyed idealist morphs into a jaded skeptic, dismissing the very notion of love as a mere fairytale. Cynicism becomes a thick cloak, meticulously woven from past hurts, shielding us from vulnerability. The sight of happy couples evokes a grimace, their joy a jarring reminder of our own yearning. Love songs, once a source of solace, now sound hollow, their lyrics mocking our disillusionment.

But love, it seems, possesses a stubborn spirit. It refuses to be silenced by our jaded proclamations. It seeps through the cracks in our carefully constructed walls, finding its way through the most unexpected avenues.

For Dion, love manifested in the radiant smile of his daughter, a beacon of pure, unadulterated love that pierced through the haze of his exhaustion. It was present in the warm, wet lick of his childhood dog, their shared solace on a grassy patch beneath the vastness of the sky.

Most profoundly, though, love revealed itself in ways he never dared to dream. It unfolded in the quiet moments of connection, the unexpected gestures of kindness, the silent understanding that transcended words. It bloomed in the rediscovery of joy, the quiet hum of contentment that replaced the deafening silence of despair.

Love, it seems, doesn't operate on a preordained script. It dances to its own rhythm, a melody both familiar and surprising. And even when we least expect it, it has the power to weave its way back into the fabric of our lives, reminding us that even the most hardened heart can once again learn to sing the beautiful song of love.

Chapter 1 - Welcome to the Neighborhood!

June 19th, 2023 - Angel City, west division - Goldenrod neighborhood.

The young man gazed around the spacious interior of the new house, his eyes alight with wonder at the sight of his new home. It was a momentous occasion, and he couldn't help but feel a surge of pride and gratitude for the opportunity to provide a better life for his family. Turning to see his mother leading his daughter into the house, he couldn't help but smile at the sight of his precious baby girl, finally reunited with her grandparents after his return to the States from Africa.

As his mother released his daughter's hand, she began to inspect the furniture that had been brought into the house so far. The room was not yet fully furnished, and there were still many details to be arranged to her liking, but nothing seemed glaringly out of place. The young man watched as his mother moved about the room, her keen eye taking in every detail, her mind already envisioning the perfect arrangement for each piece of furniture.

The young man felt a sense of contentment wash over him as he watched his mother work.

As the young man watched his mother, he couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for all that she had done for him. She had always been there for him, supporting him through thick and thin, and he knew that he could always count on her to be there for him and his daughter.

As the young man watched his mother, he couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement for the future. He knew that this new home was just the beginning of a new chapter in his life, and he couldn't wait to see what the future held for him and his family.

"Bianca: Dion, is our room upstairs on the right? You said Danielle's room is right next to yours as well." 

She said, her voice carrying the distinctive lilt of a Brooklyn accent. Her words were punctuated by the soft click of her heels on the polished floor, a sound that echoed through the spacious hallway of their new home.

Dion, a 22-year-old young man, sported a striking appearance. His long, jet-black and azure blue two-toned dreadlocks were pulled back into a ponytail, cascading down his back. He donned a white sleeveless tech jacket over a black long-sleeved undershirt, accentuating his muscular physique. His black jeans pants were adorned with rose gold highlights, complementing the black and gold strap-on boots with rose gold borders that adorned his feet. On his forearms were two golden rings, each etched with the word "Rise," serving as a reminder of his inner strength and resilience.

Adding to his ensemble, Dion wore two white wrist sleeves, with black wristbands layered on top, creating a striking contrast. The kanji for "Primordial" adorned both his back and front, symbolizing his connection to ancient wisdom and the eternal cycle of life.

Dion's attire was a reflection of his unique blend of modernity and tradition, a testament to his multifaceted identity. Each piece of clothing and accessory told a story, weaving together elements of his past, present, and future. As he moved through the world, Dion carried with him a sense of purpose and pride, embodying the essence of the "Primordial" spirit that resided within him.

Seated beside Dion was his cherubic 2-year-old daughter, Danielle. 

Her short black hair was styled into two adorable puffballs, and she was dressed in a white sleeveless tech onesie, layered under a vibrant blue long-sleeved shirt. Her ensemble was completed with azure-highlighted blue shorts and matching blue and gold strap-on boots, adorned with blue borders that added a touch of whimsy to her outfit.

On Danielle's forearms, she wore two smaller versions of the  golden rings Dion wore, each bearing the words "Next Gen" etched into them. These rings were not just accessories; they symbolized her potential and the legacy she carried forward. Lastly, the kanji for "Morningstar" graced both her back and front, signifying her radiant spirit and the bright future that lay ahead.

As Danielle sat beside her father, her eyes sparkled with curiosity and wonder. She was a beacon of hope and promise, embodying the spirit of the next generation. With each passing moment, she reminded Dion of the importance of nurturing and guiding her, ensuring that she grew up to be a strong, compassionate, and resilient young woman.

Together, Dion and Danielle formed a bond that transcended words. They were a testament to the power of love and family, and as they sat together in their new home, they were filled with a sense of gratitude for the journey that had brought them here.

Scooping up his precious daughter, Dion dashed up the stairs with an effortless grace. He didn't miss a step, his movements fluid and determined.

As he ascended, Dion deftly maneuvered past two movers who were carefully transporting a mattress to his parents' room. He offered them a quick nod of acknowledgment, his focus solely on reaching his destination.

Finally, they reached Dion's new room, a space that was twice the size of his previous one back in Brooklyn. The room was bathed in soft light, the walls painted a calming shade of blue. A large window overlooked the front yard, offering a view of the lush greenery outside.

Dion gently set Danielle down on the bed, her eyes wide with excitement. She giggled as she bounced on the mattress, her laughter filling the room. Dion couldn't help but smile at the sound, his heart swelling with love for his daughter.

As he looked around the room, Dion felt a sense of pride and accomplishment. This was their new home, a place where they could create new memories and build a bright future together. He knew that there would be challenges ahead, but he was ready to face them head-on, with Danielle by his side.

With a sense of determination, Dion rolled up his sleeves and got to work unpacking their belongings. He was eager to make this new house feel like a home, a place where they could both feel safe and happy.

"Dion: GYAAAAAAAT DAMN!!!!"

Dion said as he was left speechless, Dion could only stand there, his mind racing as he took in the sight of their new home. He gently set Danielle down, and together they explored the room, examining every detail with wide-eyed wonder.

The bed, the closet, the large box of gadgets, and the spacious desk were all a marvel to Dion. He couldn't help but marvel at how far they had come. At the age of 22, having grown up in the concrete jungle of Brooklyn, he never imagined he would have a room like this.

Moving in the summer was a blessing, giving him a fresh start in this new place before college started. However, it also meant starting over and making new friends, something Dion wasn't entirely comfortable with. His old home was a battleground, where Edgerunner crews constantly vied for supremacy. It was a far cry from the tranquility of their new surroundings.

Despite the challenges ahead, Dion felt a sense of optimism. This new home was a symbol of the future for him, a place where he could build a better future. For Danielle, he was ready to embrace this new chapter in their lives.

Now, he found himself in a plastic, copy-and-pasted grid of four-bedroom houses. Dion sank down onto the bed, letting out a deep sigh as he tried to process the enormity of his new life.

"Dion: Damn... this is crazy... I didn't think the house was this big on the inside when I bought it!"

The sheer size of the house took Dion by surprise. He had initially been hesitant about moving in with his parents as he entered his third year of college, but now he was starting to see the benefits. The spaciousness of the house offered him a sense of freedom and independence that he hadn't anticipated.

The prospect of his daughter growing up in a stable household, not solely under his care, brought him a deep sense of relief and happiness.

"Deshawn: Ayo D! Dani!"

His father's voice echoed as he made his way upstairs. Deshawn paused at the doorway, peering into the room with a curious gaze.

"Dion: How ya likin' the place, pop?"

The question hung in the air as Deshawn took in his son's animated expression. A smile spread across Deshawn's face, witnessing Dion's enthusiasm for their new beginning. It was a refreshing change, especially considering the dark cloud that had hung over Dion since the incident three years prior. Deshawn remembered the depth of depression that had once gripped his son, making this moment of genuine excitement all the more precious.

"Deshawn: D, dis place is amazin'! It's way more spacious dan I expected. An' hey, tanks for openin' up yuh home to me an' yuh mom during dis time. We really needed a change of scenery."

The warmth in Deshawn's smile was unmistakable as he spoke. He then scooped Danielle up in his arms, eager to explore the room that would be hers. Initially, Dion was hesitant about the idea of having Danielle sleep in a separate room. However, his concerns were alleviated when he discovered the room was not only large but also soundproof, making it a comfortable and safe space for her.

After checking out Danielle's new room, Deshawn reappeared, still cradling his granddaughter. Dion addressed his father again, his tone filled with understanding and support.

"Dion: It's no problem at all, pop! I understand you and Ma needed some time to heal, especially after grandma's passing. I hope this place serves us well while I'm in college. I definitely appreciate the help with Danielle, plus I really needed a quiet spot to focus on my game development. Oh, and let Ma know that me and Dani will come downstairs a bit later. I need to unpack Dani's things and get her settled in first."

Dion couldn't help but smile at his father's uncharacteristic display of excitement, something he rarely saw unless it involved his friends back in Brooklyn, the game they loved, or his mom. After gently placing Danielle back on the bed, Dion awaited his father's reply.

"Deshawn: Well thanks, son. We really 'preciate what yuh doin' for us. I'll pass on yuh message!"

With a warm smile, Deshawn then moved off to explore another room on the second floor. Meanwhile, Dion rose to peer out of the window in his room, which offered a clear view of the street below.

He watched as his mother climbed into the minivan and drove away. His gaze then drifted across the street, where he noticed a house that bore a striking resemblance to his own in its structure. As he observed, the front door of that house swung open, and a man stepped out into the daylight.

The man had barely taken a few steps outside when a woman, whose figure was strikingly curvaceous and walked confidently in heels, emerged to pull him back. Though Dion couldn't make out their words from his vantage point, the familiar dance of a couple in the midst of an argument was unmistakable, and he watched with a mischievous grin.

Ensuring that Danielle was preoccupied with her Legos, Dion's attention remained fixed on the unfolding drama.

The woman fixed the man with a sharp gaze, her finger authoritatively pointing towards the door behind her, signaling his retreat back into the house. With a resigned air, the man conceded, disappearing inside. The woman, left standing alone, let out an exasperated sigh, her frustration palpable even from a distance.

Then, as if sensing an audience, her gaze drifted towards Dion's new home. Their eyes met, and in a sudden shift of mood, her annoyance seemed to evaporate. With a tilt of her head and a playful smile curving her plump lips, she sent a flirtatious kiss Dion's way, adding an unexpected twist to their silent observation.

Turning around to follow the man, Dion stared at her ass as it wobbled.

"Dion: GYAAAAT DAMN!!!"

Raising his voice so his father could catch his words, Dion expressed his disbelief.

The sight before him was undeniably strikingâ€"a woman who not only caught his eye but seemed to defy the norms with her appearance. Her beauty was evident, complemented by a figure that spoke volumes of her allure.

What truly set her apart in Dion's eyes was her naturalness, a rarity in an era obsessed with cybernetic enhancements. In a world where chrome and artificial enhancements were the norm, where most had surrendered to the allure of becoming 'chromed out junkies', her commitment to maintaining a natural physique was both startling and refreshing. It was a stark reminder of a bygone era when the natural human form was celebrated in its organic beauty.

"Dion: Dat chick has a body!"

Dion shifted his focus back to the interior of his room, mentally preparing himself for the task ahead. With a determined roll of his sleeves, he was ready to dive into organizing his space, setting up both his and his daughter's rooms, as well as his office.

The day progressed swiftly, morphing from morning to noon, then stretching into the afternoon and eventually, evening. By this time, the movers had wrapped up their work and departed.

His mother arrived back home loaded with groceries, signaling another phase of settling in. Dion busied himself with sorting clothes, arranging them neatly into drawers, and adorning the walls with various pictures. The daylight clung stubbornly to the sky, a characteristic trait of May's lingering evenings.

He descended the stairs to assist his mother with the groceries, keen to get everything indoors before dusk settled in.

In the midst of setting up his entertainment systems and a vintage ZT1 console in the living roomâ€"a task he undertook with his daughter by his sideâ€"the day's rhythm was interrupted by the sound of the doorbell, just as they had powered on the TV and were about to enjoy the fruit of their labor.

Dion glanced towards the door, catching a glimpse of the visitors through the door's camera.

"Dion: I've got it, Pop." 

Dion called out, his voice carrying a note of anticipation.

He moved from the comfort of the couch towards the front door, his usual caution of peering through a peephole replaced by the transparent clarity of the glass panes, leaving nothing to imagination.

Swinging the door open, Dion was met with the sight of his new neighbors.

"Dion: Hi there, can I help you?"

A cheerful voice greeted him from the other side.

"Rebecca: Well, hello there! We noticed y'all movin' in today and thought it'd be mighty neighborly to come over and say hi. I'm Rebecca Monroe, and this here's my husband, Samuel. We're just across the street from y'all."

She gestured towards the house across the street, where three young ladies stood outside, waving at the young man. At 6'0", he towered over them effortlessly.

The young man's gaze shifted from the trio to Rebecca and her husband. His daughter, having climbed down from the couch, had silently joined him, peeking out from behind her father's legs. Dion's parents, curious about the commotion, had also come to see what was happening.

"Rebecca: We just wanted to come ova and say hello, and bring y'all this peach pie I baked as a welcome present. I hope y'all enjoy it; it's my specialty!"

Rebecca's warm smile was met with a sharp-toothed grin from Dion, his yellow eyes briefly flashing. The intensity of his gaze caught her off guard, and she found herself momentarily mesmerized by the glow emanating from his eyes.

"Dion: Oh, really? That's so thoughtful of you. Thank you very much. I'm Dion, and this is my mom and dad, Bianca and Deshawn McDaniel."

Dion stepped aside to make way for his mother, Bianca, and then went to put the pie away. Danielle followed him closely, her curiosity piqued.

Meanwhile, Danielle watched the adults from behind her father as they conversed.

"Bianca: Ey! How ya doin'? Wow, dat smells amazin'. Ya know, my grandma used ta make a peach pie dat could make a Georgia housewife jealous."

Bianca's joke was met with a shared moment of laughter between her and Rebecca. The two women seemed to hit it off instantly, as if they had been the best of friends since childhood.

Samuel stood there, a bit awkwardly, with his hands on his hips. He despised being near these people and avoided making eye contact, instead focusing on the interior of the house. The advanced technology within only served to further infuriate him.

After a moment, he finally spoke up.

"Samuel: It's right nice to meet y'all. Welcome to Goldenrod." 

Samuel said, his gaze shifting briefly to acknowledge them before returning to the ground.

Samuel then kept his head down, wanting nothing more to do with them after his "welcome" was given.

"Rebecca: Yessuh, welcome! Oh, an' who is that behind you, Dion?" 

She asked, her attention drawn to the little girl hiding behind Dion.

Danielle, gripping her daddy's pants leg, remained hidden as Dion gently coaxed her forward.

"Dion: Oh, that's my daughter, Danielle. Come here, pumpkin. Don't be shy; introduce yourself." 

Dion encouraged, his voice warm and reassuring.

Her father picked her up.

"Danielle: Hi! Me ish Danielle! Ish nice to meet you!"

She said, her voice a little shy but filled with genuine warmth.

Danielle was then hoisted up into her father's arms.

"Rebecca: Oh my stars! She's such a precious lil thing! She's just a sweet darlin'! It's such a delight to meet you too, Danielle. I'm Rebecca, and it's just lovely to make your acquaintance, sweetheart!" 

Rebecca replied, her voice gentle and warm as she smiled at Danielle. She was so taken with Danielle that she couldn't resist pinching her cheeks affectionately.

Rebecca then turned her attention to the family as a whole. She was delighted to have met such nice people, and now that they were her neighbors, she was ecstatic about their move.

"Rebecca: We also have children. Three daughters, all over there. Ellie, Rosa, and Jules. When the time comes, we'd love to have you over for dinner."

Samuel quickly looked up towards his wife, about to speak.

"Samuel: Becc-"

He attempted to interrupt, but she silenced him with a deadly glare.

Upon seeing the glare, Samuel quietly backed away, recognizing his wife's anger.

This was the first time her smile had faded, revealing a powerful resting bitch face.

"Samuel: Y-yeah, dinner would be nice to get to know everyone." 

He said, hiding his face, somewhat worried about what his wife would say or do in front of them.

"Rebecca: Exactly!" 

She replied, turning back to Deshawn and Bianca with a reassuring look.

Deshawn nodded, able to read the dynamic going on right now, and he suppressed a laugh.

"Deshawn: Yeah, for sure. I think dinner would be good. How about next Saturday? It'll give us time to settle in more and give you time to prep whatever you gotta prep."

He suggested, as Dion took Danielle back to the TV and turned on her favorite TV show.

"Rebecca: Agreed, Saturday it is. Come around about 6 o'clock-ish. We look forward to seeing you! Have a great evening!" 

She said, shaking each of their hands goodbye. Samuel followed suit, eager to avoid any more mean looks from his wife.

He waved at them as the neighbors walked back to their home.

"Dion: They seemed nice." 

Dion turned to his parents with a smile.

"Bianca: She seemed nice, but he seemed like he didn't wanna be here." 

Bianca corrected.

"Deshawn: Correction: him seem like him neva want "WE" fi be ya." 

Deshawn further noted.

Dion understood what was going on now. He had been exposed to racism in the past, which was unavoidable if you played on a ZT5 or XC2 online long enough. Someone would eventually call you a slur.

"Dion: Ma, Pop, y'all done got excited again, the Jamaican and Brooklyn accents are coming out again, LOL! And If he tries to hurt us, I'll handle him. Last time we dealt with a snobbish dude like dat, Dad minked him in his shit." 

Dion said, referring to an incident where his father had put a man in his place.

Dion laughed heartily as Deshawn shook his head.

Danielle was now sleeping soundly as her father and grandparents conversed.

"Deshawn: Mi doubt it, dat likkle bitch is whipped as fuck. An' mi mean like badly, yuh see di way she put di fear of God into him wid one look? An' even if him did try someting, yuh old man would knock him lights out before him could put a hand on any of us."

Deshawn remarked, his tone confident, his accent coming out again as he smirked confidently.

Dion chuckled at his father's words, still remembering how his dad had knocked out his teacher in high school for using a racial slur.

"Bianca: Let's try not to catch a case in the first week, honey. Now, let's enjoy some of this pie!" 

Bianca said, steering the conversation towards a more pleasant topic.

They all headed to the kitchen to indulge in Rebecca's peach pie, while across the street, the Monroe family were having a discussion of their own.

"Rebecca: Samuel Jackson Monroe?! Goodness gracious, what in the world was that all about? Couldn't you have shown a bit more self-restraint? You nearly made a spectacle of us in front of them!"

Rebecca exclaimed, her voice filled with frustration.

Rebecca scolded him, her voice laced with disappointment. Their daughters listened in from a different room.

"Samuel: Becca, you can't be serious about inviting those people to our house?! They don't belong here!" 

Samuel exclaimed, his tone filled with disdain.

Seeing her husband make such an assumption made Rebecca see red. This was the first real time he had seen her so mad, and it made him step back a bit.

"Rebecca: Now, what do you mean by 'those people'? Are you worried they might be fixin' to take somethin'?" 

Rebecca asked, her voice rising with anger.

Rebecca grew more and more frustrated with her husband. Seeing the man she loved acting in such a way in front of her was quite painful and shocking to her.

"Samuel: Yes, I am! We've worked too hard to let those people take what's ours! I do not care if you and our girls vote blue, but the one thing I absolutely won't tolerate is thugs like them stepping foot into our house!" 

Samuel declared.

Samuel's words echoed through the house, and Ellie, Rosa, and Jules were absolutely appalled at what they heard coming from their stepfather.

Ellie had always suspected that Samuel was a closet racist, but Rosa and Jules had never wanted to admit it. However, hearing their stepfather say such things made them believe everything Ellie had told them.

"Rebecca: I never did reckon I'd hear such foolish talk from the man I hold dear. You've got no right to be callin' them names like that! They're not thugs!!"

Rebecca said, her arms crossed in front of her.

She had never felt anger like this before. In her 41 years of life, she had never heard people say racist things. She had grown up in a relatively diverse community and neighborhood, where she was always told to respect everyone, no matter what they looked like, sounded like, or identified as.

Rebecca was from a proud, diverse family as well. She had grown up with a Japanese stepmother and half-siblings, and she had childhood friends who came from all walks of life.

She had heard racist things before, but never in person. It was always from the news or from the mouths of her friends and family. But now, she was experiencing racism firsthand, and from her husband of all people.

She knew Samuel had become a hardcore conservative in recent years since he moved to Goldenrod to be with her.

But to think he had the guts to say such things when her youngest and only biological daughter was conceived by Rebecca and her previous husband before he passed, she then thought about it, she actually never told Samuel about who her late husband was nor what his race was, as she figured he had already known by looking at Jules and was okay with it.

"Samuel: New Yorkers, Becca, in our house? We don't know what they'll do to us or our girls! Think of Jules! We can't expose her to those kinds of people! Those thuggish hoodlooms are not to be trusted?!"

Ellie groaned from the other side of the wall, but before Samuel could drag her into this, Rebecca snapped her fingers at him to pay attention.

"Rebecca: First off, let's get this straight, darlin'. This ain't 'our' house, it's 'MY' house, the very same house I grew up in once my daddy moved us here. Many folks of color have been comin' to this house of mine long before we even got together. Now, you can hold onto whatever grudges you want for whatever silly and stupid reasons you may have, but this is MY house. And if I want them over for dinner, then that's exactly what's gonna happen, regardless of what you want or say! So, you can either sit down and eat with our family or you can just get out."

Samuel's face turned bright red upon hearing that. Hetried to push the thought to the back of his mind as he pleaded with his wife, despite all the points she made.

Rebecca raised her hand to shush him.

"Rebecca: Now, you listen up, this here is final. Either you be a good neighbor to the McDaniels or end up stayin' with your parents for the week, Sam. Don't you dare start somethin' you'll regret. And girls, you hear me?"

She addressed her daughters as they all immediately came around the corner.

"Rebecca: Y'all, we're gonna have company over for supper next Saturday. Make sure y'all keep that day free. I want each of y'all here to meet 'em. And please, dress up real nice. Alright?"

The three girls stood together as they nodded.

"Yes, mom!" 

They said in unison.

Peeking out from the other side of the wall, Samuel's face became bright red before he punched the wall. He stormed out of the house, getting into his truck as he sped off.

Ellie smiled, seeing her stepfather angry. She loved seeing him get backed into a corner and put in his place.

She came up to her mother and gave her a hug.

"Ellie: Thanks, Mom. You were a real boss bitch. I'm proud of you for taking a stand. And I loved every second of it!"

She gave her oldest a hug in return.

"Rebecca: Oh, bless your heart, darling. I just can't let Samuel go 'round doin' or sayin' somethin' he'll regret later. I surely love him, but he needs to understand that there are far more important matters than gettin' all riled up over folks who look different than us just bein' in the same space. Especially since Jules is half-Black, and considerin' you and Rosa are both adopted."

Rebecca said as her second oldest walked up.

"Rosa: Did you see any other kids while you were over there?" 

Rosa asked, hoping that she could still win the bet and potentially meet new friends.

"Rebecca: Oh no, sugah, just the one son. Dion, he's a mighty fine young man. He did say he's 22, and then there's his daughter, Danielle, quite the little cutie herself. She surely takes after her daddy."

Ellie smiled, a genuine expression of happiness on her face as she then turned towards the window and caught a glimpse of Dion without his shirt on.

She immediately couldn't believe her eyes as she rubbed them, unable to believe what she saw.

Soon she turned back to her mother and sisters as she smiled again.

"Ellie: Aw, what a cute name! Looks like I won then!"

Ellie gloated, a victorious smile on her face.

"Rosa: Nuh uh, you said a 20-year-old and a newborn! Dion is clearly 22! And his daughter is clearly 2 or 3 years old! Also, Mama, is Dion 6ft? He looks like he is 6ft?"

Rosa interjected.

"Ellie: Oh, don't be a sore loser. We were betting on how many kids they had, not the specifics."

Ellie defended herself.

"Rosa: Ugh, fine. What do you win then?"

Rosa said as she groaned.

"Ellie: Hmm, how about I don't have to help with dinner on Saturday?"

Ellie offered.

"Rosa: fine."

Jules on the other hand isn't bothered; she actually enjoys assisting their mom in the kitchen.

"Jules: Well, I can't wait for Saturday. A whole week to go."

She skips along to her room. Ellie follows, but Rosa stays behind with her mother.

She waits for them to be out of earshot.

"Rosa: Mama, was Dion hot? I didn't get a good look at him?"

Rosa said as her blue eyes sparkled with curiosity and excitement.

"Rebecca: Rosa, go to your room, now."

She gave her daughter a smug yet subtle smile.

Rosa only giggled as she took off.

"Rosa: But, Mommy, you didn't say noooo~"

Rosa disappeared from her mother's sight giggling as she couldn't wait for Saturday.

Saturday arrived quickly.

The McDaniels, Dion's family, took the time they had to get themselves settled, meeting other neighbors and getting to know the locals. Meanwhile, the Monroe household was rather quiet.

Samuel hadn't been home in a week, likely still salty at his wife for what was going on.

Ellie was busy trying to find a summer and winter job to earn some cash before her eventual return to college.

Rosa spent most of her time buying clothes for Saturday and hanging out with her boyfriend, Ashton.

Jules, meanwhile, was sleeping in as usual and trying but failing to get the top high score in Mission of Steel.

Rebecca planned a big meal for tonight: baked chicken, mashed potatoes, string beans, and creamed corn. She made sure both Rosa and Jules were home to help her cook, letting Ellie slide with her little victory.

Soon enough, the McDaniels family rang the doorbell just a minute before 6 p.m.

"Rebecca: Ellie, honey, could you kindly fetch that for me, please?"

She asked. Wearing a pink top and white pants that were both form-fitting, big hoop earrings, and the pinkest of high heels.

"Ellie: Yep!"

Ellie walked her way to the front door. She opened the door to see the four new neighbors up close for the first time.

"Ellie: Hey! Welcome, come on in. I'm Ellie, it's nice to meet you!"

Ellie said as she was greeted with the sight of Dion holding Danielle's tiny hand, Bianca, and Deshawn.

She was excited to finally meet the new neighbors.

"Bianca: Nice to meet you too!"

Bianca smiled as she led Danielle in with Dion and Deshawn right behind them. They all introduced themselves.

Witnessing the absolute wealth on display in this house. The definition of upper middle class.

After walking in, Bianca was greeted and hugged by Rebecca as the two cracked on like old friends that finally met up again after not seeing each other in years.

While his mom and dad were talking to Rebecca, Dion was playing with Danielle as Ellie, Rosa, and Jules all watched him from afar as they were nervous about meeting him.

"Rosa: Is that Dion? And the little girl is Danielle?"

Rosa asked as Ellie nodded her head.

"Ellie: Mom told me the hunk of a nerd holding the baby is Dion, the baby is Danielle, and little cutie is his daughter!"

They watched him as he was busy with Danielle, they could tell Dion was well-toned. His arms were well-defined, he had a six-pack. He was like a war god ready for battle.

The three sisters felt like Dion reminded them of the Spartans of old. While they were admiring Dion, Deshawn turned to see the three Monroe sisters were scanning Dion's entire body.

Deshawn was not expecting these three sisters to take such a liking to his son and smiled a bit.

Deshawn could see that something about his son had drawn the sisters to him, until he saw that Dion was holding Danielle, he watched as they were taken by the sight of Dion having his attention on his granddaughter.

That is until Dion soon turned his own attention towards the sisters as he caught sight of them looking at him, which made them quickly turn away to make it seem like they weren't staring at him.

He smiled before Rebecca went back to the kitchen with Bianca following her.

Dion's eyes were immediately drawn to the Monroe house, he was struck by the sophisticated and creative design of the house until he saw the three sisters.

Seated on the couch, Dion's gaze was drawn to the three Monroe sisters standing five feet away. He couldn't help but be captivated by their beauty.

Ellie, the eldest at 21, had a commanding presence. Her long, shapely legs were accentuated by sharp-heeled boots, leading up to a fashionable skirt that hugged her waist. 

Her blouse, a soft and shimmering purple and black. Above that, long raven-black hair, highlighted with purple streaks, framed a set of sharp, piercing eyes that shone like emeralds. 

Her dusky eyelids added an air of mystery to her gaze, and her soft lips formed a sly smile that hinted at hidden depths.

As Dion's attention shifted from Ellie, he noticed Rosa, the second oldest of the Monroe sisters at 20, standing beside her. Rosa had crimson-colored hair that contrasted with her brown sugar skin, which was barely concealed by a black one-piece bodysuit. This suit was sleeveless and zipped up to her neck, with matching arm sleeves. 

The contrast of her black outfit with her brown sugar skin was emphasized by the latex she wore, which was the same color as her fingernails and hair. 

As she leaned away from her sister, Dion couldn't help but notice her flawless light brown skin when she tugged at the zipper near the nape of her neck, soon the zipper gave way to reveal the red crop-top she wore underneath.

Observing the two older sisters, Dion leaned back in his seat, taking in their beauty, still holding his daughter, and decided to shift his focus to her. He wanted the evening to be good as he was happy.

However, his attention was soon drawn back to the sisters, particularly to Jules, the youngest at 19, who stepped closer to him. Her two older sisters watched as she sought more interaction with him and his daughter. Dion was struck by the sight of Jules, who had a darker complexion than Rosa and Ellie, with a soft tawny pigmentation.

Her hair, a mix of gold and pearl, was styled with several hair bands wrapped in a braid. Her clothing reflected a more personal style choice, sporting a backless sunflower-shaded crop top and white baggy pants. Unlike Rosa and Ellie, who wore color-coordinated outfits, Jules' nails were painted in an obnoxious Mardi Gras shade, which made Dion imagine the contrast of her dark skin with nails matching the tone of her makeup.

Dion managed to tear his eyes away from the three Monroe sisters before anyone noticed his lingering gaze. He was taken aback by their stunning figures and couldn't help but wonder if everyone in their family was built like that.

"Dion: Jesus H Christ-" 

He muttered under his breath, trying to compose himself.

However, his stare was met by Ellie, who had caught him in the act. She gave him a knowing smile, and Dion quickly averted his gaze, focusing on their faces instead.

As Ellie walked up to him, Rosa followed behind her, all three of the sisters were wearing smiles that could light up the room. Dion tried to maintain eye contact, but it was difficult with their captivating presence and outfits.

"Ellie: I like your shoes, Dion! And Danielle is such a cutie-patootie!"

Dion was still wearing his Cyga tech's as he held his daughter, the 2-year-old giggling as she hid her face in her daddy's neck. Jules and Rosa joined in, playing with Danielle as Ellie continued to chat with Dion.

"Dion: Oh, thanks. I, uh, guess-"

Dion's gaze lingered on Ellie's necklace, his eyes tracing the delicate chain as it disappeared behind her neck. He was momentarily lost in the sight, his thoughts drifting before Ellie leaned forward.

"Ellie: Hehe, oh this?" 

Ellie's voice was playful as she spoke, her lips curling into an amused smile. 

"Ellie: It's called a choker~"

Dion's eyes quickly snapped back to the T.V in front of him, a faint blush coloring his cheeks as he realized he had been caught staring. Before he could respond, Deshawn's voice cut through the moment, pulling him back to reality.

"Deshawn: D, come on, and make sure Danielle nuh play too much." 

Deshawn's tone was firm, reminding Dion of the situation at hand. 

"Deshawn: We inna somebody yard after all."

Dion shifted his attention to his daughter, ensuring she stayed occupied as they followed his father's instructions. 

Behind them, the soft giggles of Ellie, Rosa, and Jules floated through the air, guiding them toward the dining room.

"Rebecca: Oh, bless your heart, the cookin' is comin' along just fine, nearly done, darlin'!" 

Rebecca's voice welcomed them as they stepped into the kitchen. 

"Rebecca: Well, sugar, it's just gonna be a short spell longer, about 10 minutes or so. Rosa, Jules, Ellie, these are....I plumb forgot to ask, what's y'all last name?"

Rebecca's dismay was evident in her tone, frustrated by her oversight in not gathering proper information.

"Bianca: The McDaniels, and it's great to meet everyone." 

Bianca swiftly intervened, picking up the conversational thread. 

"Bianca: I'm Bianca, this is my husband Deshawn, our youngest son Dion, and our grandbaby Danielle."

Dion couldn't help but be struck by the stunning presence of the three sisters. 

"Dion: Wassup everyone!" 

Dion greeted, his words punctuated by the realization that he was surrounded by an overwhelming aura of allure and beauty.

Danielle held onto her daddy's shirt, her smile lighting up the room as she gazed at the three sisters. 

They seemed to be enchanted by her, and Dion couldn't help but smile at the sight of his little girl feeling so comfortable around them. It was clear that she felt safe and happy in their presence.

"Rosa: Aww, hiya sweetie! You're just adorable." 

Rosa cooed, her eyes sparkling with affection. 

"Rosa: How old are you, Danielle?"

Danielle beamed, her tiny hands lifting to show three chubby little fingers. 

"Danielle: Daddy ish 22, and me ish 2! Ish turning 3 in July!"

The girls and their mother were captivated by Danielle's innocence and shyness. They couldn't help but adore her, and it was clear that they wanted to spoil her rotten.

Rosa gently took Danielle into her arms, and Dion was pleasantly surprised.

Danielle rarely let anyone outside of her grandparents and himself hold her, but she seemed perfectly at ease with Rosa.

He smiled calmly, watching as Danielle was doted on by the two sisters.

"Rosa: Dion, you look good for a single dad at your age." 

Rosa remarked, her tone warm and approving. 

"Rosa: I'm 20, Jules is 19, and Ellie is 21."

Rosa's smug and alluring smirk caused Dion to blush heavily, and Ellie even joined in from the living room.

"Ellie: Yeah~ You look so big and strong~"

Jules rolled her eyes at her sisters flirting with Dion, as she held Danielle.

She tickled her, making her giggle as she fawned over her, Jules loved seeing Danielle smile and she loved seeing Dion too.

"Jules: And Danielle is soooooooo cute! She takes after you so much Dion!"

Dion blushed again, hearing that Danielle took after him. His mind immediately put together that she called him cute by extension.

Dion felt shyer than he had ever been before. Was being complimented by these girls flattering? Or were their looks making it hit harder?

Rosa and Jules instantly fell in love with Danielle as they each took turns holding her. The 2-year-old was absolutely loving the attention she was receiving as her daddy talked with Ellie.

"Jules: You can all wait in the living room while we cook, and if you are wondering where our step-dad is, momma kicked him out!" 

Jules informed them, pointing in the direction of her now smiling mother.

Dion's parents exchanged a knowing look at the mention of the father being kicked out. Jules tapped them on the shoulders and gave them a reassuring grin. She said in a hushed tone.

"Jules: Don't worry, he shouldn't be back anytime soon, mom gave him an ear full before kicking him out of the house. He won't be back anytime soon." 

She winked before she left to go help cook.

They headed to the living room and sat down on the couch. Ellie looked up to see the Mcdaniels family in full for the first time in person. She smiled before standing to greet them, holding out her hand.

"Ellie: Let me properly introduce myself, It's nice to meet you, I'm Ellie Alvarez Monroe, I'm the oldest adopted daughter of my mom and the eldest daughter."

Bianca took her hand and gave her a hug.

"Bianca: Thank you, you have a lovely home."

The conversation they had went on as Bianca and Deshawn played with Danielle. 

Dion, on the other hand, was talking with Ellie, Jules and Rosa as they each crowned around him. They each took a seat and Ellie patted the empty spot between her and Rosa for Dion to join them. He joined reluctantly as he held Danielle, getting up close.

"Ellie: So, you have any interests Dion?"

Dion avoided making eye contact with any of them, knowing that if he even locked eyes with any one of the sisters once, he'd be enchanted by them.

"Dion: Oh, I don't have many hobbies, but I play basketball, football and baseball every now and then while my lil girl here draws." 

His eyes darted between the TV and Ellie.

"Rosa: Ooo that's nice, I bet you're a beast on the court."

Dion rubbed his head moderately, shy about talking about his game on the court.

"Dion: Heh, yeah, I'm pretty good. I can cross up dad haha, but besides that I'm mostly working on coding my new game." 

He laughed, getting comfortable with them.

She joined the laughter as she slowly got closer to him.

Ellie put her arms around Dion's arm as she talked with him, her mind focused on how she could make him blush more. Rosa and Jules on the other hand pouted, seeing their sister taking up Dion's time.

"Ellie: Oh, I bet, and wow, you're making a game? Anything else? Any girls~" 

She whispered into his ear, causing Dion to blush further. He kept his eyes off her for a moment until she used her finger to draw his eyes to her. His eyes had a glow to them as he looked at her.

"Dion: Um, maybe."

She just smiled and went back to playing with Danielle. Dion was left sitting there wondering what she meant by that as Danielle looked up at her daddy blushing at wherever Ellie meant.

Time passed quickly as they heard a call from the kitchen that dinner was ready. They all got up to join the chefs as they put all the food on the table. 

Jules and Rosa were right next to him on either side with an arm around his arm.

Deshawn and Bianca sat across from each other as Dion took a seat next to his mom, Danielle sitting on his lap playing with a fork, with Ellie across from him. Rebecca took the seat opposite of Dion and Ellie. 

"Rebecca: Now, who would like to lead us in prayer?" 

Rebecca asked the whole table.

Ellie looked across the table, Rosa hid an eye roll, and Jules stopped herself from taking a scoop of potatoes too soon. 

"Deshawn: Oh, I can do it." 

Deshawn spoke up. 

"Deshawn: Not my first rodeo."

Deshawn chuckled, a hint of nervousness coloring his tone.

"Deshawn: but it's definitely been a while."

He bowed his head, and a sincere murmur escaped his lips.

"Deshawn: Thank you, Lord, for this beautiful meal. Amen."

As the prayer washed over the table, Dion's gaze darted towards Ellie, a flicker of something unreadable crossing his features. But his moment was short-lived. Rosa, the ever-observant one, caught him with a knowing smirk, the same one every woman in this family seemed to wield against him — a playful "gotcha" glint in her eyes.

The prayer ended, and the clatter of utensils replaced the quiet reverence. Compliments flowed freely towards Rebecca, the fragrant aroma of her cooking a testament to her skills. Bianca, eyes lighting up, begged for the pie recipe, and Rebecca readily agreed, a warm smile gracing her lips.

Conversation swirled around the table. School was a frequent topic, with Ellie sharing her college plans and Rosa outlining her future studies. But then, Jules, ever the enthusiastic one, interjected.

"Jules: Wait, Dion."

She exclaimed.

"Jules: Didn't you mention working on a video game? Does that mean I can play it?"

A grin tugged at Dion's lips. He raised his wrist, and a holographic image materialized in the air, showcasing vibrant cover art with the bold title "Dynamon" emblazoned across it.

"Dion: It's still under development." 

He explained, his voice laced with excitement. 

"Dion: But if you ever get the chance to visit, I'd love for you to be my official beta tester!"

The news hit Jules like a double power-up. Being a beta tester for a new game was practically a dream come true, and Dion, her new neighbor, had just secured it for her. She shot up from her chair, bouncing on the balls of her feet with a joyous squeal. Before Dion could react, Jules launched herself at him, arms wrapping tightly around his head as she peppered him with a rapid-fire of kisses.

"Jules: Thank you, thank you, thank you!!!!!!" 

Her enthusiasm was infectious, momentarily silencing the room.

As she finally settled back into her seat, Jules leaned in and planted one final kiss on Dion's lips. The gesture, meant purely for him, sent shockwaves through the group. Everyone, except the ever-composed Rebecca, seemed momentarily stunned. The biggest impact, however, landed on Ellie and Rosa, who both erupted in a flurry of protest.

"Ellie: What?! Jules, that's not fair!" 

Ellie shrieked, her cheeks exploding into a fiery blush. 

"Ellie: How come you get to kiss him?!"

Rosa, fueled by her sister's outburst, echoed the sentiment. 

"Rosa: Yeah! How come you get to kiss him like that? It's not fair!"

Jules was in her own world as her sisters fussed at her.

Across the table, Bianca and Deshawn, Dion's parents, shared a surprised but amused glance. Their son, despite just meeting them, seemed to have an unintentional talent for capturing the girls' attention. Deshawn, in particular, couldn't help but swell with a touch of paternal pride. He knew Dion was popular with the ladies, but witnessing three young women practically fighting over him, mere hours after their first encounter, was a sight he wouldn't soon forget.

As the initial chaos subsided, the three sisters, though settled back in their seats, still seemed fixated on Dion, their attention drawn to his every word. He, oblivious to the mini-drama he'd caused, casually inquired about the local schools, trying to gauge the neighborhood.

Later, the conversation shifted to work. Jules's announcement had triggered the question of their occupations. It was then that they learned of the stark contrast between their lifestyles. While Deshawn and Bianca juggled demanding night shifts, Dion, fueled by his passion, worked tirelessly on his game, both day and night. The revelation painted a picture of dedication and ambition, leaving a lasting impression on the sisters and deepening their curiosity about the enigmatic new addition to their circle.

Jules' concern flickered across her face. 

"Jules: Wait a minute."

She interjected.

"Jules: Does that mean Danielle will be left alone at home?"

Dion chuckled reassuringly. 

"Dion: Absolutely not!"

He countered. 

"Dion: Aside from grabbing anything I need from campus to work on the game, I plan to be home most of the time. Taking care of her is my top priority, and I wouldn't dream of leaving her on her own or with someone I don't know. However, that's why I'm looking for a babysitter who can stay overnight on the nights my parents have their night shifts."

He reached down and scooped up a now-sleepy Danielle, her eyelids fluttering closed as he cradled her close. In a gentle voice, he added.

"Dion: See, this lil one is a total sleepyhead."

Rebecca joined the conversation, her voice laced with concern. 

"Rebecca: Have you found anyone yet?"

Dion offered a helpless shrug, shaking his head. 

"Dion: Not yet." 

He admitted. 

"Dion: But I'm checking every possible avenue. Finding someone reliable is crucial before I dive back into work. I need to get the beta version of the game finished by next Sunday for the release."

He shifted Danielle onto his shoulder, her tiny arms instinctively wrapping around his neck as she drifted off peacefully after a full day of playing and eating. 

The weight of his responsibility settled on Dion's shoulders, but it was a weight he wouldn't trade for anything. He was determined to find the perfect solution, one that balanced his work with his most important role: being a father to his precious little girl.

Before Dion could finish the question about needing a summer babysitter, the house erupted in a chorus of excited voices.

"Ellie: Oh, I'll do it!"

"Rosa: Me too! I'm free all summer!"

"Jules: Don't forget about me, Dion! I'd be great with Dani!"

The three sisters, all young adults, were a flurry of movement, leaning across the dining table, big smiles plastered on their faces. Their childhood rivalry, as competitive as ever, bubbled just beneath the surface. A silent challenge crackled in the air, each vying for the opportunity.

Rosa, the second eldest and always the life of the party, let out a hearty laugh, shattering the brief tension. Dion, visibly surprised by the sudden enthusiasm, blinked rapidly. His mouth remained agape, struggling to catch up with the whirlwind of responses.

Ellie, the oldest and known for her responsible and organized nature, seized the moment.

"Ellie: I've actually been looking for a summer job." 

She explained, her voice laced with a hint of nervousness. 

"Ellie: So this would be perfect! Win-win, right?"

The weight of their eager gazes settled on Dion. He glanced at Rosa, her eyes sparkling with playful defiance, then at Jules, the youngest, whose expression held a quiet determination. Finally, a smile spread across his face, genuine and warm.

"Dion: Well, that was easier than I expected!" 

He chuckled. 

"Dion: Honestly, I wouldn't mind having any of you as Dani's babysitter. So, Dani, what do you say? Who would you like to spend the day with?"

Danielle, a sleepy two-year-old with pigtails askew, lifted her head from his shoulder. Her eyes, still heavy with the remnants of sleep, landed on Ellie. A small, sleepy smile graced her lips as she spoke a barely audible name.

"Danielle: Ellie."

Dion chuckled. 

"Dion: Alright, I'm in! As long as Dani doesn't mind, of course. But fair warning, you'll have to pull out all the stops to impress her. This little one ain't letting go easily." 

He gestured to Danielle. 

"Dion: She's practically attached to me." 

He punctuated his statement by demonstrating, gently nudging Danielle to show how her arms were firmly wrapped around his neck, even with her eyes closed in sleep.

He playfully added.

"Dion: See? Even a five-star chef can't compete with the allure of her daddy's arms apparently, either that or she's just a daddy's girl, probably both." 

He even tried freeing himself, fully letting go, but Danielle's grip remained unwavering, her tiny fingers clinging like a koala to a eucalyptus tree.

Ellie's eyes sparkled with excitement. 

"Ellie: Perfect! We can finalize details like pricing tomorrow. Just let me know when you're ready, and I can get started anytime."

Rebecca, unable to contain her own enthusiasm, sprang up and headed for the cabinet. 

"Rebecca: Wine and glasses, coming right up!" 

She chimed, already grabbing the necessary items.

Dion grinned, his eyes filled with warmth. He took a bite of steak, Danielle now comfortably settled on his lap, content in her own special world playing with her daddy's hair.

The night continued as they drank, with a sleeping Danielle being the only one who didn't get to join the fun. 

The evening stretched late, casting long shadows as the McDaniels finally said their goodbyes. As they shuffled out, Bianca held Danielle as she and Deshawn headed out the door, Dion not far behind them.

Ellie, her movements slightly exaggerated by tipsy amusement, lingered behind. She caught Dion's eye with a playful glint, her voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper as she tugged on his shirt.

"Ellie: See you again soon, big boy~" 

She teased, the playful term laced with a hint of something more. 

"Ellie: Or should I say, my future boss?"

Before Dion could stammer out a response, Ellie leaned in, her kiss landing full on his lips. It was a bold move, playful yet lingering, leaving Dion's face burning with a blush that rivaled the embers dying down in the fireplace.

His mind reeled. This was the second sister to kiss him today, and the first non-familial female touch he'd felt since the passing of Danielle's mother. He was caught off guard, unsure of how to respond, desperately wanting to avoid making any missteps.

Ellie, oblivious to his internal storm, giggled, her eyes sparkling with amusement. She couldn't help but notice the flush creeping up his neck, the way his gaze darted away from the suggestive fullness straining against her top.

"Ellie: Oh, come on!" 

She teased him, her voice husky. 

"Ellie: Someone's enjoying having me this close, aren't they?"

Her hand, bold and playful, found its way onto his chest. She could feel the rapid thump of his heartbeat beneath her touch, a rhythm that sent a thrill through her own veins. As she teased him further, the image of Dion shirtless came rushing back to her mind, further set ablaze by the unexpected spark igniting between her and Dion.

Ellie watched him walk away, a strange mix of emotions swirling within her. There was the fondness for her new friend, but also a newfound intrigue, a flicker of something more complex sparked by their stolen moment. And as Dion disappeared into the night with his parents and daughter, she couldn't help but be impressed by the quiet maturity he possessed, a quality that seemed to shine even brighter amidst the confusion of their unexpected encounter.

To be continued...