#stksafeharbor

[honeyjars-sims]

2.33 Alone Again

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Song is "Jesus Christ" by Brand New

#this is the 3rd version of this post I've made #I'm still not sure if I'm satisfied #but let's go lesbians #ts4 #sims 4 #the sims 4 #ts4 story #simblr #sims storytelling #sims story #simlit #stksafeharbor #safeharborstory #sh:johnny #sh:lexie #sh:liz #sims spice #sim spice

[honeyjars-sims]

2.30 A Little Fun

Lexie: I have to say, I’m having a really great time!

Izzy: The straights just don’t do it like we do.

Kelsey: That’s for damn sure! So, how are you feeling about everything?

Lexie: I’m still not sure. Like, this is fun but I don’t know if a night out dancing is going to make it any easier to break Johnny’s heart.

Izzy: Do you see anybody you’re interested in?

Lexie: I’ve seen a couple of girls I’d like to talk to, but I feel weird about flirting with someone when I’m still in a relationship.

Kelsey: You don’t have to act on anything. It doesn’t hurt to flirt a bit. 

Lexie: I don’t know, I already feel like the worst person in the world for doing all of this behind his back. He doesn’t even know what’s going on.

Kelsey: Well, whatever you’re comfortable with. 

Lexie: I’ll be right back, I’m going to the bathroom.

Kelsey: Ok, don’t do anything we wouldn’t do!

Lexie: Ha! You wish.

[Lexie is washing her hands when someone in the bathroom recognizes her]

Liz: Hey, I know you from somewhere.

Lexie: Oh, you’re Chantal’s friend, right? I’m dating her brother.

Liz: Is that so? What are you doing here?

Lexie: My friends invited me out. 

Liz: Oh, that’s too bad. I thought maybe you were having a gay awakening or something. I was going to shoot my shot.

Lexie: Really? With me?

Liz: Duh, you’re, like, really hot.

Lexie: Well, uh, thanks. You’re pretty hot yourself.

Liz: Hmm, if I didn’t know any better, I’d think you were flirting with me. But…you have a boyfriend.

Lexie: Boyfriend. Right. I-I have one of those.

Liz: You know…what he doesn’t know won’t hurt him. We can have a little fun together if you want.

Lexie: I-I can’t. I wouldn’t do that to him.

Liz: [murmuring into Lexie's ear] But you want to, don’t you?

Lexie: I--[Lexie begins to protest but her voice trails off as Liz moves in closer]

[Liz kisses Lexie. Against her better judgment, Lexie finds herself kissing Liz back]

Liz: Still thinking about your boyfriend?

Lexie: I’m sorry, I can’t do this right now.

Liz: Too bad. You know where to find me when you change your mind.

[Lexie returns to Kelsey and Izzy]

Lexie: Hey, thanks for inviting me out but I think I’m gonna call it a night.

Kelsey: Is everything ok?

Lexie: Yeah, there’s just something I need to do.

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#prepare yourselves for the next post 🙏 #ts4 #the sims 4 #sims 4 #ts4 story #simblr #sims storytelling #sims story #simlit #stksafeharbor #safeharborstory #sh:chapter2 #sh:izzy #sh:kelsey #sh:lexie #sh:liz

[honeyjars-sims]

2.35 Wallowing

Cece: How’s therapy been going?

Chantal: Good, I think. We’re just getting started but I really like my therapist so far. 

Johnny: Don’t bother with therapy, it’s a waste of time.

Cece: No, it’s not. Just because you’re wallowing in misery doesn’t mean everyone else has to.

Johnny: I’m not wallowing. And it’s true. If I never went to therapy I never would have asked Lexie out or started talking to my mom again. I’d be a lot happier.

Chantal: Therapy didn’t make your girlfriend gay or keep mom from making better choices. Sometimes bad things happen. If you were still going to therapy, maybe you’d start feeling better instead of rotting away on the couch.

Johnny: That’s easy for you to say. You haven’t been through what I have.

Chantal: Maybe I wasn’t physically abused, but I still grew up in the same bad environment where my needs weren’t met. You're not the only one with trauma, you know.

Johnny: Oh, you have trauma. Is that why you were sleeping with your boss?

Chantal: That really hurts. I know I could have made better decisions, but that’s why I’m in therapy. I want to work on my self-esteem.

Cece: Johnny, why would you even say that? Leave Chantal alone. At least she’s trying to do something with her life. You’ve been moping for weeks. Did you even go to your finals?

Johnny: No, but it doesn’t matter now.

Chantal: What do you mean it doesn’t matter? Can you even pass your classes if you don’t take the finals?

Johnny: No, I can’t. But I dropped out anyhow.

Cece: You dropped out of school?

Chantal: What were you thinking?

Johnny: Oh, come on. I just picked Drama as a major because it seemed fun. I don’t have any idea of what I want to do with my life. Going to college is just a big waste of my time.

Chantal: I guess if you don’t want to go to school, that’s your choice, but where are you going to live? You have to be a student to live in the apartments.

Johnny: Can’t you just pretend you live by yourself? They won’t know I’m here.

Cece: Um, and who’s going to pay for your part of the rent? Dad and Pops are helping you out because you’re supposed to be getting your degree. They’re not going to just give you rent money for nothing.

Chantal: Yeah, and I can’t afford this place by myself now that I lost my job.

Johnny: Fine. I guess I’ll ask Dad and Pops if I can stay there for a while.

Chantal: I’ll give you a couple of weeks to get your things together, but don’t take advantage.

Cece: Yeah, and our parents aren’t going to let you mooch off of them forever. At some point you’re going to have to act like an adult. 

Johnny: Yeah, whatever.

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#johnny is being kind of an ass #hopefully he won't keep moping much longer #ts4 #the sims 4 #sims 4 #ts4 story #simblr #sims storytelling #sims story #simlit #stksafeharbor #safeharborstory #sh:cecelia #sh:cecilia #sh:chantal #sh:johnny

[honeyjars-sims]

2.36 Don't Give Up

Solomon: You’ll have to take the girls’ old room. We have too much stuff stored in your old room right now.

Johnny: Ok, that’s fine.

Solomon: And this is just temporary, until you can get back on your feet. If you’re not in school, we expect you to get a job. 

Johnny: Yeah, ok.

David: Another thing. You being hurt isn’t a good excuse to make poor decisions. I know we can’t make you stay in school, but I wish you would have discussed it with us first. Pops and I worked hard to make sure all of our kids had the opportunity to get an education. 

Solomon: It’s one thing to take some time off from school if you need it, but quitting right before the end of the semester means you’ll have to retake your classes if you decide to go back. And we don’t get that money back.

Johnny: I’m sorry, I wasn’t really thinking.

Solomon: We’re not mad, but we do want you to think things through more.

Johnny: I’ll try to do better. I know it doesn’t seem like it, but I’m trying.

David: Look, Johnny, I know you’re having a hard time right now. It’s not easy going through a breakup. But it’s a part of life. It hurts a lot now, but it’ll get better with time.

Johnny: It’s not just about Lexie, though. I’m sad about it, but it’s not the only thing.

Solomon: What is it, then? You can tell us.

Johnny: It’s everything. I just feel like I’ve never been happy until recently. Then things started getting better. I was starting college, I had a girlfriend, I was talking to mom again. I finally felt like things were going somewhere for me. But now I just feel hopeless again. I feel like this is all my life is ever going to be. So why bother trying? 

Solomon: There’s always hope, Johnny. You have a lot to offer this world. Not everything will work out the way you want, but that just means there’s something different out there for you.

Johnny: I wish I could believe that.

David: You need to call your therapist and set up an appointment.

Johnny: No! It’s not going to help. It never has.

Solomon: We’re trying our best to be supportive here, but we can’t sit back and watch you give up on yourself. If you want us to help you out, you’ve got to help yourself as well. 

Johnny: Ok, fine. I’ll go.

Solomon: Good. You’re young and you still have so many opportunities to have the life you want.

David: Things will get better, I promise.

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#ts4 #sims 4 #the sims 4 #ts4 story #simblr #sims storytelling #sims story #simlit #stksafeharbor #safeharborstory #sh:david #sh:johnny #sh:solomon

[honeyjars-sims]

2.22 Painful Truths

Johnny: I missed you, baby.

Lexie: We just saw each other yesterday, silly!

Johnny: Well, I want to see you all the time.

Lexie: You’d get sick of me, I promise. And you’d see all the gross stuff I keep hidden. Bad breath, greasy hair, the works.

Johnny: None of that would bother me. I love you, bad breath and all.

Lexie: Johnny, there’s something I need to tell you. I just don’t want you to be upset or take it personally.

Johnny: What’s wrong?

Lexie: Nothing’s wrong exactly. I just might’ve jumped the gun a bit. When you told me you loved me, I said I love you too. But I’m not sure I’m ready for that yet. 

Johnny: Oh. Well, that’s ok.

Lexie: Are you sure? I mean, it’s a big thing to tell someone you love them for the first time. I know opening up like that wasn’t easy for you.

Johnny: I’m disappointed, sure, but I didn’t really mean to say it yet. it just kinda slipped out. 

Lexie: I’m really sorry. I know I shouldn't have said something that I wasn't feeling, but I didn’t want to hurt your feelings. Especially after everything that happened on our trip. You really didn’t do anything wrong. You’re a great boyfriend and one of the best people I know. I think I just need more time is all.

Johnny: You’re right, we are young. Like I said on our trip, I don’t want to rush anything if you’re not ready. I’m a patient guy.

Lexie: I’m glad you’re not upset. And yeah, we should just enjoy our time together without putting too much pressure on ourselves. 

Johnny: Yeah, who knows…maybe your breath will scare me away after all.' “'What happened with you and Lexie?' 'Oh, you know, she’s so gross I couldn’t take it anymore!'

Lexie: [laughing and playfully hitting Johnny's arm] Shut up!

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#ts4 #the sims 4 #sims 4 #ts4 story #simblr #sims storytelling #sims story #simlit #safeharborstory #stksafeharbor #sh:johnny #sh: lexie #sh:chapter2

[honeyjars-sims]

2.27 Old Wounds

TRIGGER WARNING: This post contains C-PTSD flashbacks relating to child abuse. While not graphic, please use your own discretion in continuing with this post if those topics are triggering or upsetting to you.

Bonnie: I just wanted to say thanks to everyone for coming out to celebrate my birthday with me. We’ve been through a lot as a family, but I’m so glad that we’re all here together now.

Johnny: Happy birthday, Mom!

Chantal and Destiny: Happy birthday!

Trinity: Just cut the cake already!

[laughter]

Johnny: So you’re the kid who’s dating my little sister. What’s your deal? Got a job yet?

Demarcus: No, sir, I’m only 12.

Johnny: Hmm. Well, I hope you’re treating my sister right. I know how 12-year-old boys are. I was one, after all.

[Johnny starts to put his hand on Demarcus’ shoulder]

Demarcus: Ah! Don't hurt me!

[Johnny has a flashback of Jimmy: Don't be such a brat and I won't have to!]

Johnny: I won't, why would you think that?

Demarcus: I dunno. Isn’t that what big brothers do?

Johnny: No! I was just messing with you. I would never…I’ll be back.

[Johnny goes to the bathroom to compose himself] 

Bonnie: [holding Darien] And there’s your Auntie Chantal!

Chantal: Hey sweet boy!

Destiny: Sorry Mom, I’m gonna have to take him back so I can put him down for a nap. 

Bonnie: Aw, sweet dreams little guy! [to Chantal] Doesn’t he make you want one of your own?

Chantal: Nope! I’m done with men anyhow.

Bonnie: I can’t blame you for that one. They cause nothin’ but trouble.

[The front door opens]

Trinity: Dad!

Jimmy: Hey princess! I thought I’d stop by to say hello since I didn’t get to see you this weekend.

Chantal: Mom, what the fuck? Why is he here?

Bonnie: Jimmy, I told you not to come!

Jimmy: Relax, I’ll just be a second. Hey, Johnny! Listen, I've been wanting--

Chantal: Don’t you fucking get near him!

Destiny: Stay back, Jimmy!

Jimmy: I just want to apologize!

[Chantal and Destiny block Jimmy from getting near Johnny. Johnny runs out of the apartment]

Bonnie: Johnny! Wait!

[Everyone follows Johnny outside]

Chantal: Jimmy, get the fuck out of here before I fucking end you!

Destiny: Leave, Jimmy!

Jimmy: Fine, I’m leaving! This wouldn’t be a problem if he wasn’t such a pussy.

Destiny: [to Bonnie] We’ve got him.

Johnny: [to Chantal] Please take me home.

Bonnie: Johnny, I’m so sorry, I told him not to come. I–

Chantal: Stop! You’ve done enough. Let’s go, bubs.

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#this post was hard to get through 😔 #my guy has some difficult times ahead #but I wouldn't put him through it without a reason #ts4 #the sims 4 #sims 4 #ts4 story #simblr #sims storytelling #sims story #simlit #stksafeharbor #safeharborstory #sh:bonnie #sh:chantal #sh:destiny #sh:jimmy #sh:johnny #sh:chapter2 #tw ptsd #tw cptsd #gif warning #tw child abuse #tw ptsd flashback #twchildabuse #childabusetw #ptsdtw #twptsd

[honeyjars-sims]

2.34 Witness Part 2/2

Lilian: Chantal, there’s someone I’d like you to meet. This is my sister, Julianne.

Julianne: I just wanted to thank you for coming forward with all of the information you had. It really helped my case. Now that Ambrose is responsible for paying my medical bills, I’ll finally be able to continue my medical treatments. And the award for pain and suffering will make up for the income I lost after losing my job.

Chantal: It was the least I could do. I’m glad you and the other victims can finally move on and that Ambrose will be paying for what she’s done.

Lilian: If you need anything let me know. I hope I’ll see you around.

Chantal: Sure, see you!

[Ambrose and Nico approach Chantal. David starts to walk towards them, but Solomon stops him]

Solomon: She can handle this.

Ambrose: You! You sneaky little rat! You were supposed to be on my side. You’ll pay for this, Chantel!

Chantal: My name is Chantal! And from what I hear, I think you’re the one who’ll be paying. I do want to thank you, though. I did learn a lot from you about how not to run a business. 

Chantal: [turns to Nico] And Nico, I want to thank you for teaching me what kind of man I don’t want. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have a lot of big plans I need to focus on, and I’m not letting either of you stand in my way.

Chantal: [continues] Oh, and if you contact me again, you’ll be hearing from my lawyer.

David: We’re so proud of you honey!

Solomon: You did the right thing, and it really paid off.

Chantal: Yeah, I’m just glad some good came from this whole situation. This whole thing made me realize that I do have some trauma from my upbringing that I need to address. I’ve always tried to ignore it, but I think it’s time I started therapy.

David: I think that’s a great idea.

Solomon: I hope you feel more comfortable coming to us with your problems. 

Chantal: I do! Thanks for being there for me today...and every day.

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#ts4 #sims 4 #the sims 4 #ts4 story #simblr #sims storytelling #sims story #simlit #stksafeharbor #safeharborstory #sh:ambrose #sh:chantal #sh:david #sh:lou #sh:nico #sh:solomon #oc: lou dimarco

[honeyjars-sims]

#ts4 #the sims 4 #sims 4 #ts4 story #sims storytelling #simblr #sims story #sh:outtakes #stksafeharbor #sh:chapter2 #sh:johnny #sh:lexie

[honeyjars-sims]

2.29 Support System

David: How’s Johnny been?

Chantal: A lot better. He blocked Mom’s number and has been trying to focus on other things.

Solomon: I can’t believe Jimmy was out of prison and she didn’t even say anything.

Chantal: Yeah, I’m pretty pissed off about it myself. I’ve been so stressed worrying about Johnny on top of everything else.

David: Is work still giving you trouble?

Chantal: Yeah.

Solomon: Just talk to us about it, honey. You don’t have to go through this alone.

David: Yeah, we’re here for you. That’s how things work in this family.

Chantal: Okay, I think I’m in over my head at this point anyway. So the CEO has gotten herself into some legal trouble. She was purchasing ingredients through third party sellers that don’t meet government standards. The ingredients caused some bad reactions and now people are taking legal action.

Solomon: Sounds like she’s gotten herself into quite the mess. Are you going to quit?

Chantal: Well, it’s not that simple. I’ve been helping gather evidence against her for the opposition that they couldn't get. They needed my help because I have connections at the company.

David: What kind of connections?

Chantal: I don’t want to say.

Solomon: Chan, you know you can tell us anything. We’re here to help.

Chantal: I…kind of had a relationship with my boss. But I found out he knows about the ingredients, and he’s just using me.

David: Oh, Chan, I wish you’d told us about all of this.

Chantal: I just feel so ashamed. I knew it was wrong, but he just kept telling me all of these good things and I just wanted to feel special.

Solomon: Honey, you are special. You don’t need a man to tell you that. 

Chantal: I don’t know what’s wrong with me. I started that job with the intention of working hard and proving myself, and I ended up almost ruining my life for a man.

David: No, this isn’t your fault. That man manipulated someone vulnerable for his own benefit.    

Solomon: People like that know how to seek out people’s insecurities and use them against them.

Chantal: I guess I didn’t realize I was so insecure. I’ve always thought I was strong and self-assured. I just don’t know how I got myself into this position.

David: You don’t have to be strong all of the time. 

Chantal: I know. I just hate feeling like I don’t have it together. I don’t want to have to rely on other people.

Solomon: That’s what we’re here for, to give you a safe place to come to when you need help.

David: We’re really proud of you for opening up about this. I know it’s hard to ask for help, but everyone needs other people sometimes. Is there anything we can do?

Chantal: Could you guys come with me to talk to the prosecutor? I’m supposed to be a witness for the prosecution, but my bosses think I’m going to help them out. I’m worried about what they’ll do when they realize what I’m doing. 

Solomon: Of course, honey. We’ll be there when you speak with the lawyer and we’ll come to the trial. What’s the lawyer’s name?

Chantal: It’s Lou DiMarco. From what I could find online, he seems like a decent guy.

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#ts4 #sims 4 #the sims 4 #ts4 story #simblr #sims storytelling #sims story #simlit #stksafeharbor #safeharborstory #sh:chapter2 #sh:chantal #sh:david #sh:solomon

[honeyjars-sims]

2.19 Dolly Would

Cece: It was so awesome! I thought I was going to be too nervous to perform, but I just asked myself ‘What would Dolly do?’ and the nerves just melted away.

Ben: Yeah, I even convinced her to sing a solo! She absolutely killed it!

[Cece plays a video of her performance]

Cece: [singing] I’ve never hurt nobody, never buried a body, never killed no one, no no. I ain't afraid to get a little crazy, baby, when I'm in love. You say you've had your fun and that you're done and I'm the one. Just know that if you fuck around, boy, I'll hunt you down.

Lexie: Wow you sound amazing!

Johnny: I wish we could’ve been there to see it in person!

Lexie: Who is that I hear screaming?

David: Oh, that was me. I screamed so loud I lost my voice for 2 days.

Solomon: [off-screen] Ah, 2 days of bliss!

David: Oh, stop! So, how was Granite Falls?

Johnny: It was great! The weather was perfect. We rented a paddleboat. I even caught a couple of fish!

Cece: See, I knew you two would have a great time without us!

Solomon: Chantal, you’re awfully quiet. Is everything ok?

Chantal: Yeah, I’ve just been a little stressed about some work stuff.

David: Oh? What’s going on at work?

Chantal: Nothing I want to talk about. 

Solomon: That’s not like you. Normally you’re as chatty as your dad.

Chantal: I’m a big girl, I can figure it out for myself.

Solomon: If you say so. Anyway, not to take away from Cece’s big moment, but your Dad has some exciting news.

David: I got a call from the casting director at Drag Superstar and I made it on the show!

[Everyone reacts with excitement to the news and congratulates David]

Chantal: I'm so happy for you! When does filming start?

David: In a few weeks, so I have to scramble and get everything together by then. It's all so surreal.

Cece: I can't believe this is happening for real! If you need anything, we're here to help!

Johnny: Yeah, I don't know much about fashion, but I can work a hot glue gun like no one's business.

David: Thanks, I need all the help I can get! I have to admit, I'm a little nervous about being on TV. I hope people like me.

Johnny: Don't be so humble, Dad! The audience is going to love you!

Chantal: Yeah, they totally will!

Cece: I can't wait! When I finally see you on the screen, I’m going to scream as loud for you as you did for me!

Solomon: I doubt that’s possible!

[laughter]

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Bonus pics from Cece's show below!

Deco sims by @xldkx-cc, lazysimmies, and @softpine (I might be missing someone, sorry if I did). Rock Festival lot by VirtualFairytales (TSR) /gallery ID: mighty_isa. This was a bigger stage than what I intended to use, but I couldn't pass this one up!

#ts4 #the sims 4 #sims 4 #ts4 story #simblr #sims storytelling #sims story #safeharborstory #sh:cecilia #sh:cecelia #sh:chantal #sh:david #sh:johnny #sh:lexie #sh:ben #stksafeharbor #sh:chapter2 #simlit

[honeyjars-sims]

2.26 Are You Satisfied?

[Lexie is outside studying by the pool. She’s staring at Cece, who is sunbathing. Johnny approaches her.]

Johnny: Hey, whatcha doing?

Lexie: Oh, nothing, I just zoned out. 

Johnny: What’s on your mind?

Lexie: Do you think we have a good sex life? Like are you satisfied?

Johnny: Wait, is this because of the conversation we had with our friends the other day?

Lexie: [nervously] Huh? What do you mean?

Johnny: Because I said I could see myself possibly being attracted to a guy. That doesn’t bother you or something, does it?

Lexie: Oh, no, I don’t care about that. It’s pretty obvious you’re attracted to me.

Johnny: Ok, so what made you bring up our sex life?

Lexie: Nothing, I was just feeling a little insecure. I think I’m going to walk over to Izzy and Kelsey’s. I told them I’d stop by today.

Johnny: Okay, I’m about to head over to my mom’s for her birthday party, so I guess I’ll see you later.

[Lexie walks to Izzy and Kelsey’s apartment]

Lexie: It’s just everything you were saying about compulsory heterosexuality aligned with how I’ve been feeling about Johnny. 

Kelsey: So you think you might be gay?

Lexie: I don’t know. Like, sex is okay, but I don’t feel what everyone else describes. I just feel empty, then I feel guilty for feeling empty because it seems to mean so much to him.

Izzy: Could you be asexual?

Lexie: I don’t think so. At first I thought maybe I could be. I’ve never really gotten butterflies around anyone...but then that changed.

Kelsey: I’m assuming it’s not Johnny you’re talking about.

Lexie: No. It’s so awful. I feel like the worst person in the world.

Izzy: Lexie, you can’t help the way you feel.

Kelsey: Yeah, you didn’t know. Who is it that you’re attracted to?

Lexie: That’s why it’s so horrible. It’s his sister, Cece.

Kelsey: Oh, Lexie. 

Lexie: I know. I couldn’t figure out why I hated her boyfriend or why I felt so hurt when she didn’t want to spend time with me. But I think it’s because I felt like she was choosing him over me. Which is silly because she’s straight, and I’m dating her brother.

Izzy: So what are you going to do?

Lexie: I feel like I should break up with him, but what if I’m wrong?

Kelsey: I know you care about Johnny, but do you think you could ever feel the same way about him that he does about you?

Lexie: Probably not. Ugh, this sucks! He’s going to be so heartbroken. The last thing I want to do is hurt him. He means so much to me.

Izzy: If he means so much, then I’m sure you want him to be with someone who can truly love him. He won’t get that chance if you keep stringing him along.

Lexie: [sighing] You’re right.

Kelsey: Look, I know this is a lot to process. You don’t have to do anything right now. Why don’t you come with us to a gay club this weekend? 

Izzy: Yeah, maybe being out in the community will help you feel less anxious about everything.

Lexie: I guess I can give it a try.

The next story post contains the following trigger warnings: C-PTSD, PTSD, child abuse. There is also a gif in the post. The post is tagged for the triggers and "gif warning." There is no graphic imaging in the post, but use your discretion if those topics are triggering to you.

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#ts4 #the sims 4 #sims 4 #ts4 story #simblr #sims storytelling #sims story #simlit #stksafeharbor #safeharborstory #sh:lexie #sh:izzy #sh:kelsey #sh:chapter2

[honeyjars-sims]

2.21 Pleasant Lies

Lexie: I don’t know what’s going on with me. I was so excited for our trip but when I got there, I just felt irritable.

Kelsey: Why, did something happen?

Lexie: Well, the only thing is that his sister bailed at the last minute and it really hurt my feelings. I don’t know, Kelsey. I’ve just been feeling out of sorts lately. I thought it was because I haven’t seen my family in a while, but now I’m not so sure.

Kelsey: Do you think maybe you didn’t want to be alone with him for that long?

Lexie: Maybe. I just feel so bad. He was so patient with me through all my crankiness and to make it worse, after all that he told me he loved me for the first time.

Kelsey: Wow, what did you say to that?

Lexie: I…said it back.

Kelsey: You sound hesitant. You meant it, right?

Lexie: Yes! No. I don’t know. 

Kelsey: Sounds like “no” to me.

Lexie: I guess I just felt like even if I don’t love him yet, I probably will soon. So why not just say it back?

Kelsey: Because you don’t tell people you love them if you don’t! What if you never feel that way about him?

Lexie: I don’t see why I wouldn’t. We have a ton in common. He makes me laugh like no one else. He’s really sweet, and I do care about him a lot. 

Kelsey: I’m sensing a “but.”

Lexie: [sighs] But there’s something in my gut that just makes me feel weird when I think about having a future with him. Maybe I’m just scared.

Kelsey: Of what, commitment?

Lexie: I don’t know. This is my first real relationship. It just started feeling so serious all of a sudden. 

Kelsey: You know monogamy isn’t the only option, right? 

Lexie: Yeah, but it’s not like I'm interested in any other guys. I’m not sure if opening the relationship would change anything.

Kelsey: Well, whatever it is, you need to be honest with him. It’s not just a one-time fib. You’ll be lying to him every time you say it. 

Lexie: I just don’t want to hurt him. He’s been through so much. I don’t want to be the reason he feels bad about himself.

Kelsey: I know, but you can’t protect him from every negative feeling. You know how they say a painful truth is better than a pleasant lie? It might hurt in the moment, but keeping the truth hidden could be worse for him in the long run.

Lexie: [sighs] It has to count for something that I want to love him, right?

Kelsey: Ok, but you don’t. And he deserves to know the truth.

Lexie: You’re right. I’ll talk to him. I just hope he takes it ok.

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#oh Lexie you're so close to figuring this whole thing out #just hang in there #ts4 #the sims 4 #sims 4 #ts4 story #simblr #sims storytelling #sims story #safeharborstory #sh:lexie #sh:kelsey #stksafeharbor #sh:chapter2 #simlit

[honeyjars-sims]

2.5 Putting Out Fires

[Chantal is looking at her phone]

Chantal: Oh, shit!

Chantal: Hey, Nico, I’m glad I caught you before you left for the day. 

Nico: Hi, Chantal. Is everything ok?

Chantal: Um, no, actually. My review got published.

Nico: Oh no! That should’ve been handled. How long has it been up?

Chantal: Hours, I think.

Nico: God. Well, I think if we delete it now, we should get ahead of any potential downfall. After all, the product has been out for months now and not much has come of it. Maybe there was just a bad batch.

Chantal: Actually, I have some bad news. Someone took a screenshot of the review and has been posting it all over social media. They’re calling Ambrose a grifter.

Nico: Shit. Well that’s going to be a lot harder to mitigate. We can’t delete someone else’s posts. I’ll have to see if anyone on my team can stay late and help me come up with a distraction.

Chantal: I’m sorry, I feel like this is my fault. I knew I shouldn’t have written that review without trying the product myself. I–

Nico: Hey, hey, hey. None of this is your fault. You did what was asked of you, and you came to me as soon as you realized there was a problem. Someone else dropped the ball here, not you.

Chantal: Yeah, but it’s my name on the article. I’m getting comments on my social media calling me a corporate shill. What am I gonna do?

Nico: That’s for me to worry about. Look, I know this seems like a big deal to you, but I promise it’s nothing I can’t handle. That’s part of my job, putting out small fires before they get out of control. 

Chantal: You’re right, I should trust that you know what you’re doing. Thanks for all of your encouragement.

Nico: [laughing] You do! You’re smarter than I was in college, that’s for sure. 

Chantal: Thanks! Maybe I could stay and help out, if you want.

Nico: I'd like that.

[Nico gazes at Chantal for a few seconds, looking like he wants to say something]

Chantal: What is it?

Nico: It's just…every time I look at you, I just start thinking about our kiss. I guess some fires are a little harder to control. [clearing his throat] Well, I'll see who else is available for a late shift and check in with you later.

Chantal: Sure. See you later.

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#unhand the teenager nico 😡 #ts4 #sims 4 #the sims #ts4 story #simblr #sims story #ts4 stories #sims storytelling #stksafeharbor #sh:chapter2 #sh:chantal #sh:nico #safeharborstory

[honeyjars-sims]

2.32 Lou to the Rescue

Lou: Chantal, I just want to say I appreciate you helping out with this case. You could’ve just walked away and washed your hands of all of this, but what you’re doing is going to help a lot of people.

Chantal: I hope so. I feel bad enough that I’ve been working for a company that’s doing such horrible things.

Lou: The important thing is that you’re doing something about it now. I understand you have some reservations about this whole thing. I know lawyers don’t have the greatest reputations, but I promise you–and your dads– that you’re in good hands.

David: Father to father, we’re worried about what this company is capable of. How do we know that testifying against them won’t have consequences for Chantal?

Lou: Look, as a father, I wouldn’t put a young woman through this if I didn’t think we had a strong case. Thanks to your daughter, we do. The evidence speaks for itself, but with Chantal’s testimony, we have it in the bag.

Solomon: Well, it’s up to Chantal if she wants to proceed with testifying. What do you think, honey?

Chantal: I want to do what I can to make things right. If that means testifying against SNOOT and putting myself at risk for retaliation, then so be it. I just can’t walk away knowing I could’ve done something and didn’t.

Lou: You’re doing the right thing. I’ll work with you to prepare you for what kind of questions they might ask and how to answer them. I promise you, everything’s going to be fine. And if they try anything after the trial, let me know and I’ll help you however I can.

Chantal: Thanks so much! I feel better now. I can’t wait to see Ambrose get what she deserves.

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#finally a DiMarco has made it into this story #although this is more of a cameo #ts4 #the sims 4 #sims 4 #ts4 story #simblr #sims storytelling #sims story #simlit #stksafeharbor #safeharborstory #sh:chantal #sh:david #sh:solomon #sh:lou #oc: lou dimarco

[honeyjars-sims]

2.4 Drama Lessons

Lexie: I couldn't believe he found another Snowflake for me. It was the sweetest gift anyone's ever given me.

Bonnie: That's such a cute story! Johnny had a little stuffed cat that he used to drag around everywhere when he was little. What was his name again? Jackie? Jerky?

Johnny: Jinkies. I was really into Scooby Doo at the time.

Bonnie: That's right! Well, it seems like you two are birds of a feather. I'm so glad Johnny found such a sweet girl. And so pretty, too.

Lexie: Thanks, Ms. Ayers!

Bonnie: It’s Messer, actually. I never bothered to change my last name after my divorce. I'm glad we finally got to meet. I was beginning to think Johnny was trying to keep us apart.

Johnny: Mom, I told you I’d introduce you to her. I just wanted to wait a little while.

Bonnie: I know, I know. But it all turned out fine. I swear sometimes you make things so much harder than they have to be. Everything’s always gotta be a big thing. Lexie, I’m sure you know what I mean.

Lexie: Um, actually, Johnny is pretty easy going most of the time.

Bonnie: Yeah, that’s because you’re a girl that he wants to impress. Give it a few months and you’ll see. I love him to death, but he can really be a drama queen when he wants to be.

Johnny: Gee, thanks Mom.

Bonnie: Oh, come, Johnny. I’m just teasing you. I thought you were all about the jokes.

Lexie: Ms. Messer, I don’t know if Johnny mentioned this, but we’re going to be involved in some theater productions with the Drama department this year. Right, Johnny?

Johnny: Yeah, I think it will be fun. Hopefully we’ll be able to get some onstage experience. It’ll probably be a lot of behind the scenes stuff.

Bonnie: Oh, that’s nice! Do you want to be an actress, Lexie?

Lexie: I do, but I’d like to do a little bit of everything. Writing, directing, producing…it all seems exciting to me.

Johnny: We’re friends with a lot of other drama students and we’ve been talking about creating some content together to post it online.

Bonnie: What kind of content?

Lexie: Right now there’s a lot of competing ideas. Everyone has something different they want to try. I guess that’s what happens when a bunch of creatives try to collaborate!

Bonnie: I’m sure you’ll figure something out. That sounds really cool. You know, you’ve been such a good influence on Johnny. He’s been doing so much better since he met you. 

Lexie: Well, I can’t really take credit for that. Johnny is really determined. Once he decides to do something, he’s going to see it through. I’m really proud of him.

Johnny: Thanks, Lex. That’s nice to hear.

Bonnie: I’m proud of you, too, son. I guess all your stubbornness is finally paying off!

Johnny: Yeah, sure.

Lexie: Well, it was really nice to meet you, but Johnny and I have an assignment we need to work on. I don’t want to fall behind so early in the semester.

Bonnie: Oh, I hate for you to leave so soon, but I guess schoolwork is important. It was nice meeting you, Lexie. Johnny, don’t be such a stranger.

Johnny: See you later, Mom. I love you.

Bonnie: Love you too! Bye!

Johnny and Lexie: Bye!

Johnny: [whispering as they walk away] Thank you.

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#lexie was soooo uncomfortable the whole time #johnny took it all in stride #but his patience with bonnie is wearing thin #ts4 #sims 4 #the sims #ts4 story #sims story #ts4 stories #simlit #simblr #sims storytelling #stksafeharbor #sh:chapter2 #sh:bonnie #sh:johnny #sh:lexie #safeharborstory

[honeyjars-sims]

2.6 Stoking the Flames

Nico: Thanks for offering to stay late and help out, Chantal. We need all the help we can get right now but unfortunately, some of the people on my team aren’t what you’d call team players.

Chantal: No problem! Thanks again for helping calm me down earlier. You were right, I was blowing things out of proportion. The nasty comments have already died down a lot.

Nico: What did I tell you? Trust me, I do know what I’m doing. I wouldn’t lead you astray, would I?

Chantal: Of course not. I guess I just have a lot to learn about how all of this works. 

Nico: It’s not intuitive, that’s for sure. You’re quite intelligent; I’m sure in time you’ll become more savvy to the ins and outs of the business world.

Chantal: I’ll definitely try! I’m glad to have the opportunity to work on something besides the reviews and broaden my skill set.

Nico: Well, I appreciate it. I know Ambrose does, too. She has her hands full with trying to stop production on the lubes that have been causing the reactions, as well as finding out what caused the reactions in the first place. As for me, I’m trying to shift the focus off of the lubes and onto some of our tried and true products. I’d like to take a more subtle approach than what the reviews were doing. Do you have any suggestions?

Chantal: Hmm, maybe you could write some articles that highlight some of the ingredients you use and how they’re sourced so you can show people that they’re trustworthy? 

Nico: I like that idea. It could show that the lube issue is just an isolated incident. I’ll gather a list of ingredients I’d like to highlight and we can start by researching potential benefits. If all goes well, you can get started with the articles tonight.

Chantal: You want me to write them? Really?

Nico: Sure, it was your idea! Of course, they’ll need to be approved like the reviews were, but I think you can handle it. Well, let’s get started. I’m sure neither of us want to be here all night. 

[A couple of hours later]

Nico: Great work so far! I think we might be able to pull this off.

Chantal: Thanks again for giving me the opportunity. I’m really learning a lot here. I’m really glad I took this job.

Nico: I’m glad you took this job, too. [Nico pauses] Damn. I wish I could get you out of my head. I’m going to get myself into trouble.

Chantal: I can’t get you out of my head, either.

Nico: God, you’re gorgeous. You better stop me before I make a mistake here.

Chantal: I don’t want you to stop.

[Nico and Chantal start kissing, and it appears that an unidentified person who's on their way downstairs may have caught a glimpse of the pair in action. Unaware of the prying eyes, Nico and Chantal continue, and end up having s*x a good time on Nico's desk.]

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#who is it??? #and will they keep this to themself? #ts4 #sims 4 #the sims #ts4 story #simblr #ts4 stories #sims story #sims storytelling #simlit #stksafeharbor #sh:chantal #sh:nico #safeharborstory