Keeta's Little Girl (Guild PRP)
Parties involved in order of first appearance: keetabirdy, and Kawaii_Hime_Ceres.
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Keeta rushed around tidying the house. Not that it was filthy, but the subconcious part of her brain was wanting this to go as smoothly as possible. This somehow, in her thinking, included the removal of anything that might tip Rhine off to Camille's presence before she was ready to introduce him to the little girl.
A great deal of this was for Camille's sake as much as Rhine's. The little girl had proven to be quite introverted and while it was clear that she could speak, and speak rather well, she chose to remain silent for the most part, just watching. If something frightened her or made her nervous, she would even hide behind Keeta, whom she had already begun to see as her parental figure and guardian. Keeta wasn't too sure how she felt about this, as the idea of being a parent of two made her nervous and she hadn't had the chance to go back to the shop yet and discuss her options with the owner. Not that she just wanted to rid the house of Camille, she just didn't want to let the little girl down if she wasn't ready for the resposibility. Camille deserved better.
And with a sigh, Keeta remembered one more thing. She had also promised Ceres that she would look after Natalia when she was gone. That made Keeta the potential mother of three...and it was a frightening prospect.
Keeta glanced into the livingroom, where Camille and Joel were watching a Blue's Clues cartoon on the television. Keeta didn't quite understand the appeal, but the children seemed to enjoy it, so she didn't mind. Joel was adjusting surprisingly well to having Camille around all the time. No he didn't get along with her to where he wanted to share his things, or play with her, but he was starting to tolerate Keeta giving Camille equal amount of attention.
Frowning, she pulled herself away and continued to clean, glancing at the clock...soon she would put them down for a nap (Camille was currently sleeping in the middle of Keeta's bed at bedtime), and wait for Rhine to arrive.
Rhine's hair was still dripping wet at the ends from his quick shower. The heat of the summer made him feel as if he didn't belong in his own skin because it tightened around him as all the moisture was sucked out of him. He had long ago gotten over the complaints he had about his body...
He couldn't place the reason but he felt unnerved as he reached up to knock on Keeta's door... He was trying to be 'formal' and not arrive in her bathroom for once. He tightened his grip on the rolled up plans for the new cafe that had just finished completion- soon they would be moving into the three story building. He was worried that the love of his life wouldn't like how it had turned out though he had tried his best to make sure both couples had their needed privacy by adding another floor all together to the business/home.
"Brother," Natalia said curiously as she felt her brothers tension that she didn't understand... Despite how much she was around all her siblings she felt that she might not ever figure any of them off. She gave her brothers hand a good squeeze as she waited just as impatiently as him for Keeta to open the door... She enjoyed her visits with the lady that was both her aunt and her sister.
Keeta had finally finished cleaning and seemed satisfied at her inspection of the house. For all intents and purposes it looked normal, but clean. As soon as she had finished, she had taken Joel and Camille to their respective rooms for their naps. She had taken Camille first, because she never fought against anything reasonable, and it was of more importance that she disappear first. Joel, however, was another story. Despite the fact that he was cranky and clearly tired, he wasn't going to go down without a fight. She finally just decided to leave him and let himself just cry himself to sleep, if she stayed it would just make it worse.
She had only just left the room when there was a knock on the door. She blinked, confused, wondering if someone else had decided to drop by, because it wasn't Rhine's normal way to come in the front door. The surprise was evident on her face as she opened the door, and Joel's cries could easily be heard through the opening. After the initial groan of frustration at Joel, she stepped forward, wrapping her arms around Rhine and giving him a quick kiss, trying to make herself act normal.
"Didn't expect you to come in this way....Sorry about the noise. I just put Joel down for a nap and he's none too happy about it." She looked down at Natalia, not wanting to ignore the girl, and lightly patted her head.
"Hi there hon. Decided to come with your big brother today?"
"Thought we'd be different and show up on your doorstep." He grinned and wrapped his arms around her. Being this close he could pick up the tenseness in her body and how the hug felt almost practiced- necessary. What he didn't know is if it was because he had startled her by knocking on the front door or if it was something else.
"You should know by now that the last thing that bothers me is noise." He caressed her cheek and smiled. "After all he is our son." He knew it wasn't by blood but it was by choice. Joel and Keeta was a package deal and he was more than happy to have them both in his life... And, he couldn't wait to know more about the little boy. Soon they would truly be a family living under one roof.
"Yes!" Natalia clapped her hands in delight. "Brother told me you are going to dress up in pretty dress and say I do..." She grinned. "I just hope it means you'll ride horses with me and have tea parties every now and then and that I get to play with Joel more." She put her hands on her tiny hips and stood there 'puffed up'.
Keeta chuckled at the little girl's enthusiasm. Well she certainly planned on doing all those kinds of things with Natalia. She not only wanted to build a good relationship with the girl, but it was practically her job, what with Ceres...no...she wouldn't think about that now. There were too many other things at the moment.
"Well that's the plan," she said kneeling down to Natalia's level. "We still need to buy the pretty dress and make lots of plans first though, so you might have to wait a little while. I think I can fit in some visits with Joel and tea parties and horses in the mean time though." And I'll even have another friend to play with... Keeta added in her head.
"Well I don't want to keep you two on the porch all day. Come in!" she said stepping inside and making way for them.
"Can I get you guys anything? Water? Juice? A snack?"
Natalia clapped in delight in the fact that Keeta would be doing all those things and more with her. She was over joyed to have her joining the family. Having been here enough times previous she had memorized enough of the home to navigate without to much assistance.
Rhine grinned as he stepped inside. "Perhaps I should arrive via the mirror in the bathroom more often so you won't have us on the front porch all day." He was merely playing and his demeanor showed this. He kissed her again on the cheek.
"How about you lend me your kitchen and I'll fix us lunch..." Even though he did it for a living he loved to cook... It had after all started out as a hobby which rolled into a passion and went from there.
"I suppose that works..." Keeta said, the thought of Rhine cooking in her kitchen never having occured to her.
"Everything you need should be in the cupboards. If you tell me what you're planning I can help you fidn your way around." She glanced at the papers he held.
"So what's this you've brought with you?" She knew she was stalling by providing conversation, but part of her was hoping a good moment for introducing Camille would present itself.
Rhine looked down at the rolled up parchment and then back at Keeta. He ran his hands through his hair- almost nervously as reaction to her question. "These... Well..." He laughed dryly. "They are the lay out for the cafe and living quarters... Nothing that cannot be looked at over lunch." He smiled as he headed to the kitchen. He really didn't want to get into it before they were sitting down because if changes needed to be made he wanted to have the ability to take notes.
"Not exactly sure what I'll fix..." He said with a grin as he disappeared into the kitchen. He was one of those that could mix a little this, little that and create a dish on the fly with little to nothing at all and it actually be considered a good meal.
"Ok....well if you want to know where something in particular is let me know. I'm sorry to say my kitchen is not as well stocked as yours. I hope it has everything you need." Keeta was very curious about the parchment, but resisted the impulse to roll it open and look at it while he was cooking.
The clanging of cabinets and pots was heard but for a short moment before it was fairly silent. He opened the refrigerator several times over and at points you could almost swear he wasn't even in the kitchen at all for how silent he was.
"Come and get it," he called out as he pulled out a casserole dish from the oven. The dish contained nice sized pieces of chicken that had simmered in tomato soup, rice, and green beans.
As Rhine had been preparing the food, Keeta set the table in the kitchen with plates, glasses and all the necessary utensils. She was ready by the time he announced that the meal was finished cooking.
"That was fast! And it smells wonderful!" she remarked as she headed to the fridge to get out beverages.
"What would you like to drink Rhine? Natalia?" As she waited for their responses she unconsciously glanced toward the clock. She probably had another 30-45 minutes before all hell broke loose and both the toddlers woke up. Keeta knew she needed to find a way to broach the subject before then.
"Anything natural- fresh squeezed is preferred" Natalia replied. "Mother doesn't allow pop... or some of them other drinks that you find in other realms." Her tone revealed her rolling eyes.
Rhine chuckled and said nothing about when you get older. He ruffled his sisters hair and helped her to the table. He held her hand and showed her the empty plate and silverware.
Keeta chuckled at Natalia's grown-up response before bringing two pitchers to the table. One with apple juice and one with water. She seated herself as well and started to seve herself a portion of the casserole and then served the others.
She watched as they began to eat and she waited until Rhine had just put a mouthful of casserole in his mouth before speaking. She didn't want to be interrupted and her 'confession' came tumbling out.
"Umm....Rhine. I have something to tell you...this past week I acquired a daughter. Her name is Camille and she came out of the Monet painting I bought."
Rhine continued to chew the already well chewed bite of food. He wasn't furious not in the least but he figured it was best to not say anything just yet. Finally he swallowed- silently enough before pouring himself some water and taking a swallow.
He grinned his goofy little smirk. "I believe my mother's saying applies to this situation," he finally said after a short period of time- which could have easy seemed longer than it was. "There is always room for one more. I just don't have the means to will a room into place so I'll have to hire the crew again to add a wall... Granted both rooms won't be as big as the one but they will still be more than big enough."
He ran his fingers through his hair and scratched behind his ear. "Though, in the future... As much as I like having more and more kids we might want to plan a bit better so I don't have to make accommodations on the fly," he said with a chuckle.
Keeta watched him nervously, waiting for his reaction. It seemed to take forever before that smile appeared. She listened quietly as he spoke, trying to make herself believe he was sincere about being ok with the situation (apart from the inconvenience of having to add another wall).
"You mean that? It's ok? And I know I would like to plan better too. I kind of freaked out when she showed up in my closet, but she's really sweet....And you don't have to build another wall, they're already sharing a room...." All this was said in a rush, an expression of her relief and gratitude.
Rhine couldn't help himself but to laugh when she mentioned the little girl showing up in the closet... It reminded him of a time when he ended up in a friends cabinet that had a mirror.
"Yes, I'm serious," he said as he tried his best to catch his breath. "They both need their own room... You don't expect the boy to have pink walls and flowers... And her to have blue walls and race cars... or a combination... do you?" He grinned. "Especially later on... I think he might be terrified of just how girly girls can be later on and vise versa."
"Well....I'm sure I could find something that would work, but if you insist. I just don't want to make things more difficult for you. You're already moving partly due to me..." Keeta frowned feeling like she was putting a lot on her fiancee. Just then Keeta heard a sleepy sounding grunt from behind her.
Camille was wandering from down the short hallway rubbing her eyes, her plant-like hair disheveled. Noticing the other people with Keeta at the table, she stopped where she was, not certain she wanted to come further.
"Camille, come here, it's ok. I want you to meet some special people. And I also want them to meet you." Keeta reached out to the girl encouragingly.
Rhine reached out and touched Keeta's face gently as he smiled. "Really it was time for an upgrade. When it was just me, my sister, and well..." He didn't say his wife because he didn't like to dwell on that. "It wasn't so terribly cramped. But when it came to her and her girl friend, me and you and our family... Well, let's face facts," he said with a chuckle, "it just wasn't going to work with us living all on one floor. So between that and the cafe needing more space... It was more than time for an upgrade."
Rhine's attention moved from Keeta to the little girl. His smile became warmer as if he was almost glowing. He carefully moved from the chair and knelt down in front of her. "Hello there pretty lady. My name's Rhine."
Between being half-asleep, and her overwhelming shyness, Camille took a step back to hide behind Keeta and watch this new man from a safe distance. It wasn't that Rhine was scary or moved too quickly, he was simply unfamiliar and thus she wasn't ready to be close him yet. Besides, he was really the only person she had met besides Keeta and Joel.
She silently looked past him and noticed a second new person. This person was smaller, so perhaps not as threateningand hadn't tried to put attention on her yet. Camille watched and waited seeing what might happen.
"She's very shy it seems," Keeta said as a bit an apology, putting a gentle hand on the toddler's head.
"She took to Joel and me rather easily, but maybe that's because she instincitvely knew I was her mommy, as kind of an imprinting...." She frowned not really happy with her explanation. It didn't seem right to put it in such "animalistic" terms, but she didn't know how else to explain it.
Natalia's curiosity was piqued when there was talk of another person in the room- and she heard this person as well... however, silent she was. She sat impatiently in her chair waiting for someone to show her this new person.
"Doesn't bother me a bit," Rhine said as he took a seat on the floor- dinner abandoned for the moment. "It takes time," he said patiently even if his sister was showing impatience. He wasn't about to introduce her yet to the newest member when she wasn't even ready yet to come from behind Keeta.
Natalia sighed and rolled her eyes in reaction. She muttered something that sound something like 'figures' before shoveling in a mouthful of chicken.
Camille didn't move, although the man didn't seem as unapproachable when he was more-or-less her level by sitting on the floor.
"You don't need to sit on the floor Rhine," Keeta said, her tone halfway between scolding and amusement.
"I'm sure she'll come out when she's ready..." She paused for a moment, pursing her lips thoughtfully.
"She seems to have taken on characteristics of the painting in her appearance. I wonder if it's my fault that's she's shy like this. You know, for leaving her in the closet alone for so long, when she was a painting. If I had known there was a girl inside of course I wouldn't have left the painting seculded in the dark...." The pursed lips turned into a frown the more she considered the matter.
"Keeta... Love... When not at the cafe I live on the floor," Rhine said with that ever lasting chuckle of his. "Mater of fact I know what it's like to be at a toddlers height for a good period of time. I spent most of my rearing years laying around and looking up at the world."
"Better in the closet than in a box..." Rhine said as he looked away from the little girl and towards Keeta. "Speaking of boxes... You do plan on moving in soon don't you?"
Natalia at the moment crossed her arms- she looked as if she was containing a considerable amount of anger.
"Errr..." Keeta said, not quite ready to answer his question. Truth be told, she rather privately hoped that they would wait to move in together after they were married. She wondered if the living together so soon had contributed to her and Kael's problems and she didn't want to mess it up with Rhine.
"I thought it wasn't ready yet? That things were still being built. Isn't that why you brought that with you?" she asked, glancing at the rolled up parchment her had brought in with him. Caught up in her discussion with Rhine, she didn't notice Natalia's growing frustration.
Camille noticed, however, and shrunk back further from the hostility emminating from the older girl.
"Well... It was done," Rhine said all his laughter coming to a halt. "But, now we'll need that extra wall." He glanced at the rolled up plans. "I always keep a spare of the blue prints for the just in case purposes of me needing to contract someone..."
Rhine couldn't help it. That was just the type person he was... The go get er. Once he knew what he wanted it was only a matter of time... He didn't really like to linger on things.
Natalia, no longer able to control herself, let out a whicker of frustration- in that moment she sounded almost like her father. But in the next moment she was very much like her mother as her hands found the material of what she wore and she began to straighten it out... As if also ironing out her anger as well.
"Oh...I didn't realize things had been completed. How long do you think it will take them to put in the extra wall? And..." Keeta was about to add something to her statement when Natalia's whicker cut her off. She blinked and looked up at the girl startled.
"Natalia?" she asked, not certain what was bothering the girl.
"Once I contract them about a week- two at the most..." Rhine didn't have time to say much else as the rooms attention had fallen on Natalia.
Natalia could sense that everyone had become focused on her. She really had tried to control herself. "You really are self centered brother," she said with a equine like snort. "Really, really you are." She was past the point of trying to control herself... She looked Rhine dead on which was an indicator she had control of herself and her will power... And at that moment she could see EVERYTHING in clarity.
"Natalia...wha-?" Keeta sputtered. She had never seen the girl act like this, and if Keeta knew anything about Natalia's mother, she knew Ceres would not have raised her to speak to her brother like that.
"Natalia, you shouldn't speak to your brother like that," Keeta said, scolding her somewhat. She was her godmother after all. She frowned at the girl and crossed her arms.
"And if something is bothering you, you need to tell us exactly what it is, instead of making us guess and then calling people names." Keeta hoped she wasn't stepping over some kind of boundry line by trying to parent Natalia, but she wouldn't stand for the girl speaking like that in her home.
Camille whimpered slightly at the increased tension in the room and crawled under Keeta's chair. With her shiness, she seemed to pick up on emotions of others more readily and the hostility in the room scared her.
"He knows good and well what he has done even if he did it unintentionally," Natalia said with a huff as she looked away from Rhine. Just looking at him made her that much more angrier.
"Now, now Natalia I didn't go and spoil what you wanted..." he said trying to appease her. She wasn't a 'brat' often but she had her moments. At this point in time he really just needed to focus on getting her calmed down before she exhausted herself to the point of passing out.
Natalia rolled her eyes before settling her gaze on Camille who had come to hide under the chair. "One would think I was the island reincarnated." She snorted. This side of her was more of an influence her sisters had on her... There personalities having accidentally rubbed off on her.
"Well I don't know what the problem is," Keeta said, her tone becoming angry in reaction.
"So please don't make the rest of us wonder what is going on!"
Camille whimpered again when her mother's voice got louder. Keeta realizing what was happening, calmed herself and got down, pulling Camille gently out from under the chair and into her arms. She clung to Keeta, peeking an eye over at Natalia.
"That's not funny Natalia," Keeta said evenly at the girl's last comment.
"She frightens easily and your tempertantrum isn't helping things." Her voice grew quiet and a little sad.
"I had rather hoped you two would become friends...."
Natalia's head 'flickered in a very equine fashion... "I haven't even begun," she said shortly but before anything else could be said Rhine was up off the floor with his hand over her mouth.
"Hush," he growled commandingly low in his throat. "Before you hurt yourself... Don't let it control you." He moved his hand and ran his fingers through her hair.
It took everything in her to get a hold of herself. Sometimes one thing just lead to another and then another. "I'm sorry," she said as she looked away and closed her eyes.
Keeta remained on the floor, visibly confused by what had just transpired. She was rubbing Camille's back trying to calm her, although the girl seemed to relax somewhat as soon as Natalia seemd to calm down. Her hands still held tight to keeta, however, as though she feared a repeat of the past few moments.
"What just happened....?" Keeta asked, her tone thick with uncertainty.
Rhine bit his lip hard enough that it bled. These were things that were generally not spoke of around Natalia- but at the same time Keeta deserved to know. Heck he was rather surprised she hadn't been told sooner by their mother Ceres.
After a moment he let out a sigh. He'd try his best. "It has to do a lot with what is in her blood, body, spirit, soul... you know all that." He said trying to keep it vague. "The island has always made sure that a good bulk of himself remains in the maidens offspring... She's no different. Unfortunately, that means that they act a lot like him until they can control themselves... Maidens have to shape themselves... They just don't wake up one day and say okay it's my turn to take over the island... It takes a lot of time, skill, and patience. She could actually end up turning e-v-i-l..." He actually spelled evil instead of saying it. "It is just all up to her and her level of control..."
"Seriously, brother... I didn't fall off the cherry tree yesterday. I've got ears you know and occasionally a set of working eyes. I really wish you all would let me grow up." She snorted. She couldn't help it. She was sick of being treated like a child. And, now that mother wasn't around she could express this. "Besides, I'm sure Camillie doesn't want to hear any of this... And, that is what this moment is about..."
"Oh...." It was a lame excuse for a response to all that, but it was all Keeta could manage for the moment. Natalia turn evil? The thought was almost to much to process when she thought of Ceres. Keeta didn't know if she was ready to parent an additional normal child, let alone an additional evil one. She hoped the fear that had materialized didn't show in her face or her eyes. Just in case, she looked down and kissed Camille on the head, smoothing her green hair, so she wouldn't have to look at them.
"Camille probably doesn't understand half of our discussion, so I wouldn't worry about what you say so much as what you do. I figure she's somewhere around four. When I get a chance I plan to take her to the clinic to get a basic check-up and see if they can't tell me where she is developmentally."
"She would make an adorable flower girl at your wedding," Natalia said with a grin. Her absent stare was an indicator that she could no longer see the world around her. "Speaking of which... That brings up my birthday. I want to ask you something Keeta..."
Rhine rolled his eyes knowing exactly what was coming... He didn't really like it one bit but what could he do- Natalia was his sister after all and didn't really have a say when it came to her requests.
"Perhaps," Keeta said, smiling a little at the thought of Camille preceeding her down the aisle in a cute little dress. Although...that might be overwhelming for the introverted little girl. Her mind started traveling along the line of the wedding and she almost didn't hear Natalia's last statement.
"Ask me something?" she said absentmindedly, completely missing Rhine's reaction.
"Marry my brother for my birthday," Natalia said with a wide grin. "I know it has already passed, but that's what I want as a birthday present." She played with the ends of her hair much the same way her mother did.
Rhine covered his face clearly too embarrassed to respond. It didn't matter if he already knew what was coming... It was just still to much. Maybe it was because he hadn't even set a date before his sister asking.
Keeta's head snapped up in surprise and she looked at Rhine, her face slightly pale. Get married right now? But what about inviting their friends and family and such?
"Natalia..." Keeta started gently, not wanting to rile her up again.
"I'm not sure that your brother and I are ready just yet..." were they?
"It isn't like I meant right now... But I meant shortly. Mother can take care of it... All you need to do is give her the guest list." She smiled innocently enough as if this wasn't just her doing.
"Kids ask some of the darnedest things..." Rhine said barely above a whisper.
"Rhine...." Keeta said suspiciously, but she wasn't really upset.
"Did you put Natalia up to this?"
"Seriously I didn't," Rhine said still unable to look at either Keeta or Natalia with a straight face. He really couldn't believe his sister had actually gone through with her plans of asking Keeta.
"Would you rather I ask for a bike?" Natalia questioned with a folding of her arms. "It isn't like I could ride it... And, there really isn't anything else I want... What I want, what I need is all provided for me with little to no effort."
Keeta didn't want to let the little girl down (or bring on her wrath!) but this wasn't something she could just give an easy answer to.
"I don't know Natalia. I'll have to think about it..." Not to mention that she needed to think about Joel's birthday as well. She could kick herself for not having celebrated it when it came around.
"How would you like it if I hosted a birthday party for you and Joel together? You could invite any of your friends..." Keeta trailed off hoping this idea would appeal to Natalia.
"I have no friends," Natalia said dropping the strands of hair that she had been playing with. "Unless you count you, Joel, and my siblings..." she sighed softly and began to fidget. "But I suppose a party would be fun non the less..." she said this even if she wasn't sure just what she could do. It was moments like this (when she realized how her sightless state effected her) that it hurt her the most...
Rhine came out of his embarrassed state with a sigh. He couldn't help this aspect of Keeta's life... There was only so much he and his siblings could do in helping their mother and father to raise Natalia...
"Well I can invite some of the other kids that live around here and maybe you can make some new friends?" Keeta suggested. Maybe she would even hang an invitation in the clinic for any of the children there to come. Noting Natalia's expression, she set Camille down and came over to the older girl. She placed a soft hand on one of Natalia's.
"I promise I'll make it fun for you."
"It does sound a little fun... At least there would be other kids there..." Natalia smiled softly and instinctively put her other hand on top of Keeta's. "What do you do on birthday parties?" Having never had one she didn't know what to expect...
Rhine was thankful for Keeta's motherly instincts...
It felt a little strange, having to tell Natalia the substance of a birthday party, but then she remembered that the little girl was part equine and thus matured more rapidly than some other children. She offered Rhine a smile before giving her attention back to Natalia.
"Well...at a birthday party, you invite other people over and you play games, laugh, sing songs, have cake a ice cream, open presents....You can even choose a theme for a birthday party, like a favorite show, or book. So what kinds of things would you like at your birthday party? We'll celebrate Joel too, but he's not really old enough to make a lot of those choices, so I'll let you help me with a lot of the planning."
Natalia snorted when her mind raced over the various things at a part. She couldn't ever recall her mother doing anything like that for her or for any of her siblings... Or for her father or herself for that mater. She half wondered if there was a reason.
She sat there for a good moment as she tried to think of things that she liked. "We have a TV but it is so fuzzy no one ever turns it on. They all tease mother about it because it has a huge pair of rabbit ears..." She sighed softly. "I've never actually looked at a book, but they do read to me... It is mostly fairy tails. Do you have a book you like Keeta?" This whole picking a theme was becoming tougher than she thought. She was about to get depressed again when Rhine spoke up.
"Music... Natalia you love your violin. We could make a party that involves a lot of noise..." As soon as he said it he knew he would regret it later.
Keeta cringed at Rhine's suggestion, grateful that Natalia couldn't see her. A lot of noise...She wasn't sure about that....but music? Music she could do.
"We could do a music themed party, absolutely," she said, glancing at Rhine again. "Joel just happens to really like music too, so that would work nicely if it's what you want."
Natalia clapped in delight- every bell on her jingled. "Yes, yes!" Suddenly she was excited again about the thought of having a party. "I love music! A birthday party with that theme would be awesome." She giggled.
Rhine caught Keeta's look. He grinned sheepishly. He was going to have to invest in some ear plugs... and some massage oil (for the after its over) to say thank you.
"Well sounds like we have some planning to do then," trying to maintain the level of enthusiasm. She was about to ask another question, when Joel could be heard crying from the other room. He had woken from his nap. Keeta sighed and made a face.
"But maybe we can plan in the next couple of days? I can come over to your house next time."
Rhine nodded and pointed down the hall. "I got that," he grinned and hurried out of the room.
"Is she any better?" Natalia asked. She was speaking of the little girl who she had frightened earlier. She hadn't meant to let things escalate- and now felt bad that it had
Keeta smiled at Rhine as he departed. She was grateful to him for stepping up, but at the same time, she would have been glad of an excuse to get away for a minute. There was a lot going on in her head. At Natalia's question, she looked behind her to see how Camille was doing.
The small girl was standing next to the chair, one hand gripping the side of it. Her other hand was near her mouth, as if she had recently broken the habit of sucking her thumb for comfort and so her hand automatically went there. She didn't look afraid now. Just cautious.It was quiet again except for Joel's crying, which she was used to. The older girl was calm now and not as intimidating. She stepped forward as Keeta reached out a hand to her.
"Who dat mommy?" she asked quietly, watching Nataila carefully.
"This is Natalia. She is a little girl of a friend of mine, like you are my little girl. She won't hurt you." Keeta tucked a stray lock of green hair behind Camille's ear.
"Natalia can't see the same way we do. She sees with her hands and not her eyes," Keeta continued, modeling the body parts she was describing.
"She wants to touch you, so she can see you. Is that ok? Mommy will be right here with you."
Camille looked from Natalia to Keeta with indecision plain on her face. Someone she didn't know touching her? She frowned....well if Mommy was going to be there. She paused in thought before giving a single silent nod and then clinging to Keeta for reassurance that she had made the right choice.
"It should be ok now Natalia," Keeta said. "But if I see her getting upset I'm going to ask you to stop, ok?"
"I didn't get to see much of her earlier in my moment of..." Natalia fidgeted for a moment and smiled apologetically. "So, I appreciate this opportunity." She held out her hand and waited for Keeta to take it and put it on Camille. "I understand and will stop if told. I also promise to be gentle."
Keeta seated Camille in her lap to provide further reassurance. She smiled at the little girl and nodded, trying to show how pleased she was with her cooperation, before gently taking Natalia's hand and guiding it to where she could touch Camille's hair. She figured that would be a 'safe' place to start.
Natalia smiled as her fingers curled into the little girls hair. She took a moment to rub it between her thumb and index enjoying just how soft it was... However, she did take note that it was a delicate soft like a texture you would find in the garden. "Do you just use water? or do you actually wash it?" She asked out of curiosity.
"Ummm....well I've only used water so far. When I get her to the doctor eventually, I would like to see what thet say about how to take care of her properly. You noticed it's a bit like plants then?" Keeta said, the smirk on her face could be heard in her voice. She took Natalia's hand and positioned it over one of the flowers that grew in Camille's hair.
"She also has white flowers that grow..."
Camille titled her head so she was looking up. She blinked just watching Natalia silently. Well, it seemed to be ok so far....
"Putting shampoo on flowers seems rather silly..." Natalia said with a light giggle. Only using her fingertips she traced around the flower. "It is rather amazing isn't it... How things grow.."
"It does seem a little silly," Keeta agreed. "But who knows the best way to take care of plant hair? I know there has to be some grown up people here in Gaia that have been through this and can tell me their experiences."
Keeta watched Natalia, how she gently used her hands to feel and "see." Growing things weren't the only amazing things. It seemed hard to believe that this same girl had a frightening temper-tantrum only moments before.
"Yes growing things are amazing."
"Like my mom says... A little TLC can take care of anything..." Rhine said having over heard the last bits of their conversation. Joel was securely riding his hip at the moment.
Natalia looked in the direction from which her brothers voice had come.
"Yes indeed. Thanks for getting him out of the crib." Keeta smiled and waved at Joel, who was still a little cranky from having just woken up.
He frowned and grunted before burying his face in Rhine's shoulder as if to get away from the brightness of the light. It seemed his three eyes made him more sensitive to dramatic changes in the intensity of light.
Camille shrank back ever so slighty from the big man, when he entered the room again. But....he was holding Joel and Joel seemed to be ok.
Rhine used his hand to shield Joel's face from the lights when he noticed the little boy trying his best to escape them. "You know we should go to the park."
"I suppose we could do that," Keeta said, lifiting Camille from her lap and getting up off the floor.
"It'd give us a chance to talk party ideas!" She said to Natalia.
"Just let me grab the stroller...." Keeta headed down the hall and returned a moment later with the double stroller and her "mom bag."
Rhine smiled as he took a hold of Natalia's hand. He still had a firm grip on Joel. He secretly wondered what they looked like to other. Did they look like a band of merry 'men' or a family. He hoped a family because that is what he wanted.
"You can put Joel in the stroller if you want," Keeta said as she lifted Camille and placed her in the front seat. She pulled the shading piece open, so that Camille wouldn't be in the bright afternoon sun when they got outside.
"If he's content- I'm content," Rhine said with a smile. "I'm use to carrying an lifting three or four times his weight." He kissed her cheek since the kids all seemed to be watching him earlier.
"Ok..." Keeta said shrugging, and returning the kiss on the cheek. She pushed the stroller towards the door and headed outside.
"Off we go then!"
Parties involved in order of first appearance: keetabirdy, and Kawaii_Hime_Ceres.
----
Keeta rushed around tidying the house. Not that it was filthy, but the subconcious part of her brain was wanting this to go as smoothly as possible. This somehow, in her thinking, included the removal of anything that might tip Rhine off to Camille's presence before she was ready to introduce him to the little girl.
A great deal of this was for Camille's sake as much as Rhine's. The little girl had proven to be quite introverted and while it was clear that she could speak, and speak rather well, she chose to remain silent for the most part, just watching. If something frightened her or made her nervous, she would even hide behind Keeta, whom she had already begun to see as her parental figure and guardian. Keeta wasn't too sure how she felt about this, as the idea of being a parent of two made her nervous and she hadn't had the chance to go back to the shop yet and discuss her options with the owner. Not that she just wanted to rid the house of Camille, she just didn't want to let the little girl down if she wasn't ready for the resposibility. Camille deserved better.
And with a sigh, Keeta remembered one more thing. She had also promised Ceres that she would look after Natalia when she was gone. That made Keeta the potential mother of three...and it was a frightening prospect.
Keeta glanced into the livingroom, where Camille and Joel were watching a Blue's Clues cartoon on the television. Keeta didn't quite understand the appeal, but the children seemed to enjoy it, so she didn't mind. Joel was adjusting surprisingly well to having Camille around all the time. No he didn't get along with her to where he wanted to share his things, or play with her, but he was starting to tolerate Keeta giving Camille equal amount of attention.
Frowning, she pulled herself away and continued to clean, glancing at the clock...soon she would put them down for a nap (Camille was currently sleeping in the middle of Keeta's bed at bedtime), and wait for Rhine to arrive.
Rhine's hair was still dripping wet at the ends from his quick shower. The heat of the summer made him feel as if he didn't belong in his own skin because it tightened around him as all the moisture was sucked out of him. He had long ago gotten over the complaints he had about his body...
He couldn't place the reason but he felt unnerved as he reached up to knock on Keeta's door... He was trying to be 'formal' and not arrive in her bathroom for once. He tightened his grip on the rolled up plans for the new cafe that had just finished completion- soon they would be moving into the three story building. He was worried that the love of his life wouldn't like how it had turned out though he had tried his best to make sure both couples had their needed privacy by adding another floor all together to the business/home.
"Brother," Natalia said curiously as she felt her brothers tension that she didn't understand... Despite how much she was around all her siblings she felt that she might not ever figure any of them off. She gave her brothers hand a good squeeze as she waited just as impatiently as him for Keeta to open the door... She enjoyed her visits with the lady that was both her aunt and her sister.
Keeta had finally finished cleaning and seemed satisfied at her inspection of the house. For all intents and purposes it looked normal, but clean. As soon as she had finished, she had taken Joel and Camille to their respective rooms for their naps. She had taken Camille first, because she never fought against anything reasonable, and it was of more importance that she disappear first. Joel, however, was another story. Despite the fact that he was cranky and clearly tired, he wasn't going to go down without a fight. She finally just decided to leave him and let himself just cry himself to sleep, if she stayed it would just make it worse.
She had only just left the room when there was a knock on the door. She blinked, confused, wondering if someone else had decided to drop by, because it wasn't Rhine's normal way to come in the front door. The surprise was evident on her face as she opened the door, and Joel's cries could easily be heard through the opening. After the initial groan of frustration at Joel, she stepped forward, wrapping her arms around Rhine and giving him a quick kiss, trying to make herself act normal.
"Didn't expect you to come in this way....Sorry about the noise. I just put Joel down for a nap and he's none too happy about it." She looked down at Natalia, not wanting to ignore the girl, and lightly patted her head.
"Hi there hon. Decided to come with your big brother today?"
"Thought we'd be different and show up on your doorstep." He grinned and wrapped his arms around her. Being this close he could pick up the tenseness in her body and how the hug felt almost practiced- necessary. What he didn't know is if it was because he had startled her by knocking on the front door or if it was something else.
"You should know by now that the last thing that bothers me is noise." He caressed her cheek and smiled. "After all he is our son." He knew it wasn't by blood but it was by choice. Joel and Keeta was a package deal and he was more than happy to have them both in his life... And, he couldn't wait to know more about the little boy. Soon they would truly be a family living under one roof.
"Yes!" Natalia clapped her hands in delight. "Brother told me you are going to dress up in pretty dress and say I do..." She grinned. "I just hope it means you'll ride horses with me and have tea parties every now and then and that I get to play with Joel more." She put her hands on her tiny hips and stood there 'puffed up'.
Keeta chuckled at the little girl's enthusiasm. Well she certainly planned on doing all those kinds of things with Natalia. She not only wanted to build a good relationship with the girl, but it was practically her job, what with Ceres...no...she wouldn't think about that now. There were too many other things at the moment.
"Well that's the plan," she said kneeling down to Natalia's level. "We still need to buy the pretty dress and make lots of plans first though, so you might have to wait a little while. I think I can fit in some visits with Joel and tea parties and horses in the mean time though." And I'll even have another friend to play with... Keeta added in her head.
"Well I don't want to keep you two on the porch all day. Come in!" she said stepping inside and making way for them.
"Can I get you guys anything? Water? Juice? A snack?"
Natalia clapped in delight in the fact that Keeta would be doing all those things and more with her. She was over joyed to have her joining the family. Having been here enough times previous she had memorized enough of the home to navigate without to much assistance.
Rhine grinned as he stepped inside. "Perhaps I should arrive via the mirror in the bathroom more often so you won't have us on the front porch all day." He was merely playing and his demeanor showed this. He kissed her again on the cheek.
"How about you lend me your kitchen and I'll fix us lunch..." Even though he did it for a living he loved to cook... It had after all started out as a hobby which rolled into a passion and went from there.
"I suppose that works..." Keeta said, the thought of Rhine cooking in her kitchen never having occured to her.
"Everything you need should be in the cupboards. If you tell me what you're planning I can help you fidn your way around." She glanced at the papers he held.
"So what's this you've brought with you?" She knew she was stalling by providing conversation, but part of her was hoping a good moment for introducing Camille would present itself.
Rhine looked down at the rolled up parchment and then back at Keeta. He ran his hands through his hair- almost nervously as reaction to her question. "These... Well..." He laughed dryly. "They are the lay out for the cafe and living quarters... Nothing that cannot be looked at over lunch." He smiled as he headed to the kitchen. He really didn't want to get into it before they were sitting down because if changes needed to be made he wanted to have the ability to take notes.
"Not exactly sure what I'll fix..." He said with a grin as he disappeared into the kitchen. He was one of those that could mix a little this, little that and create a dish on the fly with little to nothing at all and it actually be considered a good meal.
"Ok....well if you want to know where something in particular is let me know. I'm sorry to say my kitchen is not as well stocked as yours. I hope it has everything you need." Keeta was very curious about the parchment, but resisted the impulse to roll it open and look at it while he was cooking.
The clanging of cabinets and pots was heard but for a short moment before it was fairly silent. He opened the refrigerator several times over and at points you could almost swear he wasn't even in the kitchen at all for how silent he was.
"Come and get it," he called out as he pulled out a casserole dish from the oven. The dish contained nice sized pieces of chicken that had simmered in tomato soup, rice, and green beans.
As Rhine had been preparing the food, Keeta set the table in the kitchen with plates, glasses and all the necessary utensils. She was ready by the time he announced that the meal was finished cooking.
"That was fast! And it smells wonderful!" she remarked as she headed to the fridge to get out beverages.
"What would you like to drink Rhine? Natalia?" As she waited for their responses she unconsciously glanced toward the clock. She probably had another 30-45 minutes before all hell broke loose and both the toddlers woke up. Keeta knew she needed to find a way to broach the subject before then.
"Anything natural- fresh squeezed is preferred" Natalia replied. "Mother doesn't allow pop... or some of them other drinks that you find in other realms." Her tone revealed her rolling eyes.
Rhine chuckled and said nothing about when you get older. He ruffled his sisters hair and helped her to the table. He held her hand and showed her the empty plate and silverware.
Keeta chuckled at Natalia's grown-up response before bringing two pitchers to the table. One with apple juice and one with water. She seated herself as well and started to seve herself a portion of the casserole and then served the others.
She watched as they began to eat and she waited until Rhine had just put a mouthful of casserole in his mouth before speaking. She didn't want to be interrupted and her 'confession' came tumbling out.
"Umm....Rhine. I have something to tell you...this past week I acquired a daughter. Her name is Camille and she came out of the Monet painting I bought."
Rhine continued to chew the already well chewed bite of food. He wasn't furious not in the least but he figured it was best to not say anything just yet. Finally he swallowed- silently enough before pouring himself some water and taking a swallow.
He grinned his goofy little smirk. "I believe my mother's saying applies to this situation," he finally said after a short period of time- which could have easy seemed longer than it was. "There is always room for one more. I just don't have the means to will a room into place so I'll have to hire the crew again to add a wall... Granted both rooms won't be as big as the one but they will still be more than big enough."
He ran his fingers through his hair and scratched behind his ear. "Though, in the future... As much as I like having more and more kids we might want to plan a bit better so I don't have to make accommodations on the fly," he said with a chuckle.
Keeta watched him nervously, waiting for his reaction. It seemed to take forever before that smile appeared. She listened quietly as he spoke, trying to make herself believe he was sincere about being ok with the situation (apart from the inconvenience of having to add another wall).
"You mean that? It's ok? And I know I would like to plan better too. I kind of freaked out when she showed up in my closet, but she's really sweet....And you don't have to build another wall, they're already sharing a room...." All this was said in a rush, an expression of her relief and gratitude.
Rhine couldn't help himself but to laugh when she mentioned the little girl showing up in the closet... It reminded him of a time when he ended up in a friends cabinet that had a mirror.
"Yes, I'm serious," he said as he tried his best to catch his breath. "They both need their own room... You don't expect the boy to have pink walls and flowers... And her to have blue walls and race cars... or a combination... do you?" He grinned. "Especially later on... I think he might be terrified of just how girly girls can be later on and vise versa."
"Well....I'm sure I could find something that would work, but if you insist. I just don't want to make things more difficult for you. You're already moving partly due to me..." Keeta frowned feeling like she was putting a lot on her fiancee. Just then Keeta heard a sleepy sounding grunt from behind her.
Camille was wandering from down the short hallway rubbing her eyes, her plant-like hair disheveled. Noticing the other people with Keeta at the table, she stopped where she was, not certain she wanted to come further.
"Camille, come here, it's ok. I want you to meet some special people. And I also want them to meet you." Keeta reached out to the girl encouragingly.
Rhine reached out and touched Keeta's face gently as he smiled. "Really it was time for an upgrade. When it was just me, my sister, and well..." He didn't say his wife because he didn't like to dwell on that. "It wasn't so terribly cramped. But when it came to her and her girl friend, me and you and our family... Well, let's face facts," he said with a chuckle, "it just wasn't going to work with us living all on one floor. So between that and the cafe needing more space... It was more than time for an upgrade."
Rhine's attention moved from Keeta to the little girl. His smile became warmer as if he was almost glowing. He carefully moved from the chair and knelt down in front of her. "Hello there pretty lady. My name's Rhine."
Between being half-asleep, and her overwhelming shyness, Camille took a step back to hide behind Keeta and watch this new man from a safe distance. It wasn't that Rhine was scary or moved too quickly, he was simply unfamiliar and thus she wasn't ready to be close him yet. Besides, he was really the only person she had met besides Keeta and Joel.
She silently looked past him and noticed a second new person. This person was smaller, so perhaps not as threateningand hadn't tried to put attention on her yet. Camille watched and waited seeing what might happen.
"She's very shy it seems," Keeta said as a bit an apology, putting a gentle hand on the toddler's head.
"She took to Joel and me rather easily, but maybe that's because she instincitvely knew I was her mommy, as kind of an imprinting...." She frowned not really happy with her explanation. It didn't seem right to put it in such "animalistic" terms, but she didn't know how else to explain it.
Natalia's curiosity was piqued when there was talk of another person in the room- and she heard this person as well... however, silent she was. She sat impatiently in her chair waiting for someone to show her this new person.
"Doesn't bother me a bit," Rhine said as he took a seat on the floor- dinner abandoned for the moment. "It takes time," he said patiently even if his sister was showing impatience. He wasn't about to introduce her yet to the newest member when she wasn't even ready yet to come from behind Keeta.
Natalia sighed and rolled her eyes in reaction. She muttered something that sound something like 'figures' before shoveling in a mouthful of chicken.
Camille didn't move, although the man didn't seem as unapproachable when he was more-or-less her level by sitting on the floor.
"You don't need to sit on the floor Rhine," Keeta said, her tone halfway between scolding and amusement.
"I'm sure she'll come out when she's ready..." She paused for a moment, pursing her lips thoughtfully.
"She seems to have taken on characteristics of the painting in her appearance. I wonder if it's my fault that's she's shy like this. You know, for leaving her in the closet alone for so long, when she was a painting. If I had known there was a girl inside of course I wouldn't have left the painting seculded in the dark...." The pursed lips turned into a frown the more she considered the matter.
"Keeta... Love... When not at the cafe I live on the floor," Rhine said with that ever lasting chuckle of his. "Mater of fact I know what it's like to be at a toddlers height for a good period of time. I spent most of my rearing years laying around and looking up at the world."
"Better in the closet than in a box..." Rhine said as he looked away from the little girl and towards Keeta. "Speaking of boxes... You do plan on moving in soon don't you?"
Natalia at the moment crossed her arms- she looked as if she was containing a considerable amount of anger.
"Errr..." Keeta said, not quite ready to answer his question. Truth be told, she rather privately hoped that they would wait to move in together after they were married. She wondered if the living together so soon had contributed to her and Kael's problems and she didn't want to mess it up with Rhine.
"I thought it wasn't ready yet? That things were still being built. Isn't that why you brought that with you?" she asked, glancing at the rolled up parchment her had brought in with him. Caught up in her discussion with Rhine, she didn't notice Natalia's growing frustration.
Camille noticed, however, and shrunk back further from the hostility emminating from the older girl.
"Well... It was done," Rhine said all his laughter coming to a halt. "But, now we'll need that extra wall." He glanced at the rolled up plans. "I always keep a spare of the blue prints for the just in case purposes of me needing to contract someone..."
Rhine couldn't help it. That was just the type person he was... The go get er. Once he knew what he wanted it was only a matter of time... He didn't really like to linger on things.
Natalia, no longer able to control herself, let out a whicker of frustration- in that moment she sounded almost like her father. But in the next moment she was very much like her mother as her hands found the material of what she wore and she began to straighten it out... As if also ironing out her anger as well.
"Oh...I didn't realize things had been completed. How long do you think it will take them to put in the extra wall? And..." Keeta was about to add something to her statement when Natalia's whicker cut her off. She blinked and looked up at the girl startled.
"Natalia?" she asked, not certain what was bothering the girl.
"Once I contract them about a week- two at the most..." Rhine didn't have time to say much else as the rooms attention had fallen on Natalia.
Natalia could sense that everyone had become focused on her. She really had tried to control herself. "You really are self centered brother," she said with a equine like snort. "Really, really you are." She was past the point of trying to control herself... She looked Rhine dead on which was an indicator she had control of herself and her will power... And at that moment she could see EVERYTHING in clarity.
"Natalia...wha-?" Keeta sputtered. She had never seen the girl act like this, and if Keeta knew anything about Natalia's mother, she knew Ceres would not have raised her to speak to her brother like that.
"Natalia, you shouldn't speak to your brother like that," Keeta said, scolding her somewhat. She was her godmother after all. She frowned at the girl and crossed her arms.
"And if something is bothering you, you need to tell us exactly what it is, instead of making us guess and then calling people names." Keeta hoped she wasn't stepping over some kind of boundry line by trying to parent Natalia, but she wouldn't stand for the girl speaking like that in her home.
Camille whimpered slightly at the increased tension in the room and crawled under Keeta's chair. With her shiness, she seemed to pick up on emotions of others more readily and the hostility in the room scared her.
"He knows good and well what he has done even if he did it unintentionally," Natalia said with a huff as she looked away from Rhine. Just looking at him made her that much more angrier.
"Now, now Natalia I didn't go and spoil what you wanted..." he said trying to appease her. She wasn't a 'brat' often but she had her moments. At this point in time he really just needed to focus on getting her calmed down before she exhausted herself to the point of passing out.
Natalia rolled her eyes before settling her gaze on Camille who had come to hide under the chair. "One would think I was the island reincarnated." She snorted. This side of her was more of an influence her sisters had on her... There personalities having accidentally rubbed off on her.
"Well I don't know what the problem is," Keeta said, her tone becoming angry in reaction.
"So please don't make the rest of us wonder what is going on!"
Camille whimpered again when her mother's voice got louder. Keeta realizing what was happening, calmed herself and got down, pulling Camille gently out from under the chair and into her arms. She clung to Keeta, peeking an eye over at Natalia.
"That's not funny Natalia," Keeta said evenly at the girl's last comment.
"She frightens easily and your tempertantrum isn't helping things." Her voice grew quiet and a little sad.
"I had rather hoped you two would become friends...."
Natalia's head 'flickered in a very equine fashion... "I haven't even begun," she said shortly but before anything else could be said Rhine was up off the floor with his hand over her mouth.
"Hush," he growled commandingly low in his throat. "Before you hurt yourself... Don't let it control you." He moved his hand and ran his fingers through her hair.
It took everything in her to get a hold of herself. Sometimes one thing just lead to another and then another. "I'm sorry," she said as she looked away and closed her eyes.
Keeta remained on the floor, visibly confused by what had just transpired. She was rubbing Camille's back trying to calm her, although the girl seemed to relax somewhat as soon as Natalia seemd to calm down. Her hands still held tight to keeta, however, as though she feared a repeat of the past few moments.
"What just happened....?" Keeta asked, her tone thick with uncertainty.
Rhine bit his lip hard enough that it bled. These were things that were generally not spoke of around Natalia- but at the same time Keeta deserved to know. Heck he was rather surprised she hadn't been told sooner by their mother Ceres.
After a moment he let out a sigh. He'd try his best. "It has to do a lot with what is in her blood, body, spirit, soul... you know all that." He said trying to keep it vague. "The island has always made sure that a good bulk of himself remains in the maidens offspring... She's no different. Unfortunately, that means that they act a lot like him until they can control themselves... Maidens have to shape themselves... They just don't wake up one day and say okay it's my turn to take over the island... It takes a lot of time, skill, and patience. She could actually end up turning e-v-i-l..." He actually spelled evil instead of saying it. "It is just all up to her and her level of control..."
"Seriously, brother... I didn't fall off the cherry tree yesterday. I've got ears you know and occasionally a set of working eyes. I really wish you all would let me grow up." She snorted. She couldn't help it. She was sick of being treated like a child. And, now that mother wasn't around she could express this. "Besides, I'm sure Camillie doesn't want to hear any of this... And, that is what this moment is about..."
"Oh...." It was a lame excuse for a response to all that, but it was all Keeta could manage for the moment. Natalia turn evil? The thought was almost to much to process when she thought of Ceres. Keeta didn't know if she was ready to parent an additional normal child, let alone an additional evil one. She hoped the fear that had materialized didn't show in her face or her eyes. Just in case, she looked down and kissed Camille on the head, smoothing her green hair, so she wouldn't have to look at them.
"Camille probably doesn't understand half of our discussion, so I wouldn't worry about what you say so much as what you do. I figure she's somewhere around four. When I get a chance I plan to take her to the clinic to get a basic check-up and see if they can't tell me where she is developmentally."
"She would make an adorable flower girl at your wedding," Natalia said with a grin. Her absent stare was an indicator that she could no longer see the world around her. "Speaking of which... That brings up my birthday. I want to ask you something Keeta..."
Rhine rolled his eyes knowing exactly what was coming... He didn't really like it one bit but what could he do- Natalia was his sister after all and didn't really have a say when it came to her requests.
"Perhaps," Keeta said, smiling a little at the thought of Camille preceeding her down the aisle in a cute little dress. Although...that might be overwhelming for the introverted little girl. Her mind started traveling along the line of the wedding and she almost didn't hear Natalia's last statement.
"Ask me something?" she said absentmindedly, completely missing Rhine's reaction.
"Marry my brother for my birthday," Natalia said with a wide grin. "I know it has already passed, but that's what I want as a birthday present." She played with the ends of her hair much the same way her mother did.
Rhine covered his face clearly too embarrassed to respond. It didn't matter if he already knew what was coming... It was just still to much. Maybe it was because he hadn't even set a date before his sister asking.
Keeta's head snapped up in surprise and she looked at Rhine, her face slightly pale. Get married right now? But what about inviting their friends and family and such?
"Natalia..." Keeta started gently, not wanting to rile her up again.
"I'm not sure that your brother and I are ready just yet..." were they?
"It isn't like I meant right now... But I meant shortly. Mother can take care of it... All you need to do is give her the guest list." She smiled innocently enough as if this wasn't just her doing.
"Kids ask some of the darnedest things..." Rhine said barely above a whisper.
"Rhine...." Keeta said suspiciously, but she wasn't really upset.
"Did you put Natalia up to this?"
"Seriously I didn't," Rhine said still unable to look at either Keeta or Natalia with a straight face. He really couldn't believe his sister had actually gone through with her plans of asking Keeta.
"Would you rather I ask for a bike?" Natalia questioned with a folding of her arms. "It isn't like I could ride it... And, there really isn't anything else I want... What I want, what I need is all provided for me with little to no effort."
Keeta didn't want to let the little girl down (or bring on her wrath!) but this wasn't something she could just give an easy answer to.
"I don't know Natalia. I'll have to think about it..." Not to mention that she needed to think about Joel's birthday as well. She could kick herself for not having celebrated it when it came around.
"How would you like it if I hosted a birthday party for you and Joel together? You could invite any of your friends..." Keeta trailed off hoping this idea would appeal to Natalia.
"I have no friends," Natalia said dropping the strands of hair that she had been playing with. "Unless you count you, Joel, and my siblings..." she sighed softly and began to fidget. "But I suppose a party would be fun non the less..." she said this even if she wasn't sure just what she could do. It was moments like this (when she realized how her sightless state effected her) that it hurt her the most...
Rhine came out of his embarrassed state with a sigh. He couldn't help this aspect of Keeta's life... There was only so much he and his siblings could do in helping their mother and father to raise Natalia...
"Well I can invite some of the other kids that live around here and maybe you can make some new friends?" Keeta suggested. Maybe she would even hang an invitation in the clinic for any of the children there to come. Noting Natalia's expression, she set Camille down and came over to the older girl. She placed a soft hand on one of Natalia's.
"I promise I'll make it fun for you."
"It does sound a little fun... At least there would be other kids there..." Natalia smiled softly and instinctively put her other hand on top of Keeta's. "What do you do on birthday parties?" Having never had one she didn't know what to expect...
Rhine was thankful for Keeta's motherly instincts...
It felt a little strange, having to tell Natalia the substance of a birthday party, but then she remembered that the little girl was part equine and thus matured more rapidly than some other children. She offered Rhine a smile before giving her attention back to Natalia.
"Well...at a birthday party, you invite other people over and you play games, laugh, sing songs, have cake a ice cream, open presents....You can even choose a theme for a birthday party, like a favorite show, or book. So what kinds of things would you like at your birthday party? We'll celebrate Joel too, but he's not really old enough to make a lot of those choices, so I'll let you help me with a lot of the planning."
Natalia snorted when her mind raced over the various things at a part. She couldn't ever recall her mother doing anything like that for her or for any of her siblings... Or for her father or herself for that mater. She half wondered if there was a reason.
She sat there for a good moment as she tried to think of things that she liked. "We have a TV but it is so fuzzy no one ever turns it on. They all tease mother about it because it has a huge pair of rabbit ears..." She sighed softly. "I've never actually looked at a book, but they do read to me... It is mostly fairy tails. Do you have a book you like Keeta?" This whole picking a theme was becoming tougher than she thought. She was about to get depressed again when Rhine spoke up.
"Music... Natalia you love your violin. We could make a party that involves a lot of noise..." As soon as he said it he knew he would regret it later.
Keeta cringed at Rhine's suggestion, grateful that Natalia couldn't see her. A lot of noise...She wasn't sure about that....but music? Music she could do.
"We could do a music themed party, absolutely," she said, glancing at Rhine again. "Joel just happens to really like music too, so that would work nicely if it's what you want."
Natalia clapped in delight- every bell on her jingled. "Yes, yes!" Suddenly she was excited again about the thought of having a party. "I love music! A birthday party with that theme would be awesome." She giggled.
Rhine caught Keeta's look. He grinned sheepishly. He was going to have to invest in some ear plugs... and some massage oil (for the after its over) to say thank you.
"Well sounds like we have some planning to do then," trying to maintain the level of enthusiasm. She was about to ask another question, when Joel could be heard crying from the other room. He had woken from his nap. Keeta sighed and made a face.
"But maybe we can plan in the next couple of days? I can come over to your house next time."
Rhine nodded and pointed down the hall. "I got that," he grinned and hurried out of the room.
"Is she any better?" Natalia asked. She was speaking of the little girl who she had frightened earlier. She hadn't meant to let things escalate- and now felt bad that it had
Keeta smiled at Rhine as he departed. She was grateful to him for stepping up, but at the same time, she would have been glad of an excuse to get away for a minute. There was a lot going on in her head. At Natalia's question, she looked behind her to see how Camille was doing.
The small girl was standing next to the chair, one hand gripping the side of it. Her other hand was near her mouth, as if she had recently broken the habit of sucking her thumb for comfort and so her hand automatically went there. She didn't look afraid now. Just cautious.It was quiet again except for Joel's crying, which she was used to. The older girl was calm now and not as intimidating. She stepped forward as Keeta reached out a hand to her.
"Who dat mommy?" she asked quietly, watching Nataila carefully.
"This is Natalia. She is a little girl of a friend of mine, like you are my little girl. She won't hurt you." Keeta tucked a stray lock of green hair behind Camille's ear.
"Natalia can't see the same way we do. She sees with her hands and not her eyes," Keeta continued, modeling the body parts she was describing.
"She wants to touch you, so she can see you. Is that ok? Mommy will be right here with you."
Camille looked from Natalia to Keeta with indecision plain on her face. Someone she didn't know touching her? She frowned....well if Mommy was going to be there. She paused in thought before giving a single silent nod and then clinging to Keeta for reassurance that she had made the right choice.
"It should be ok now Natalia," Keeta said. "But if I see her getting upset I'm going to ask you to stop, ok?"
"I didn't get to see much of her earlier in my moment of..." Natalia fidgeted for a moment and smiled apologetically. "So, I appreciate this opportunity." She held out her hand and waited for Keeta to take it and put it on Camille. "I understand and will stop if told. I also promise to be gentle."
Keeta seated Camille in her lap to provide further reassurance. She smiled at the little girl and nodded, trying to show how pleased she was with her cooperation, before gently taking Natalia's hand and guiding it to where she could touch Camille's hair. She figured that would be a 'safe' place to start.
Natalia smiled as her fingers curled into the little girls hair. She took a moment to rub it between her thumb and index enjoying just how soft it was... However, she did take note that it was a delicate soft like a texture you would find in the garden. "Do you just use water? or do you actually wash it?" She asked out of curiosity.
"Ummm....well I've only used water so far. When I get her to the doctor eventually, I would like to see what thet say about how to take care of her properly. You noticed it's a bit like plants then?" Keeta said, the smirk on her face could be heard in her voice. She took Natalia's hand and positioned it over one of the flowers that grew in Camille's hair.
"She also has white flowers that grow..."
Camille titled her head so she was looking up. She blinked just watching Natalia silently. Well, it seemed to be ok so far....
"Putting shampoo on flowers seems rather silly..." Natalia said with a light giggle. Only using her fingertips she traced around the flower. "It is rather amazing isn't it... How things grow.."
"It does seem a little silly," Keeta agreed. "But who knows the best way to take care of plant hair? I know there has to be some grown up people here in Gaia that have been through this and can tell me their experiences."
Keeta watched Natalia, how she gently used her hands to feel and "see." Growing things weren't the only amazing things. It seemed hard to believe that this same girl had a frightening temper-tantrum only moments before.
"Yes growing things are amazing."
"Like my mom says... A little TLC can take care of anything..." Rhine said having over heard the last bits of their conversation. Joel was securely riding his hip at the moment.
Natalia looked in the direction from which her brothers voice had come.
"Yes indeed. Thanks for getting him out of the crib." Keeta smiled and waved at Joel, who was still a little cranky from having just woken up.
He frowned and grunted before burying his face in Rhine's shoulder as if to get away from the brightness of the light. It seemed his three eyes made him more sensitive to dramatic changes in the intensity of light.
Camille shrank back ever so slighty from the big man, when he entered the room again. But....he was holding Joel and Joel seemed to be ok.
Rhine used his hand to shield Joel's face from the lights when he noticed the little boy trying his best to escape them. "You know we should go to the park."
"I suppose we could do that," Keeta said, lifiting Camille from her lap and getting up off the floor.
"It'd give us a chance to talk party ideas!" She said to Natalia.
"Just let me grab the stroller...." Keeta headed down the hall and returned a moment later with the double stroller and her "mom bag."
Rhine smiled as he took a hold of Natalia's hand. He still had a firm grip on Joel. He secretly wondered what they looked like to other. Did they look like a band of merry 'men' or a family. He hoped a family because that is what he wanted.
"You can put Joel in the stroller if you want," Keeta said as she lifted Camille and placed her in the front seat. She pulled the shading piece open, so that Camille wouldn't be in the bright afternoon sun when they got outside.
"If he's content- I'm content," Rhine said with a smile. "I'm use to carrying an lifting three or four times his weight." He kissed her cheek since the kids all seemed to be watching him earlier.
"Ok..." Keeta said shrugging, and returning the kiss on the cheek. She pushed the stroller towards the door and headed outside.
"Off we go then!"
