The Taylor Family Legacy

A New Home -- A New Life

2005-04-01T04:19:00.000-08:00

The early years together...

With little memory of what had happened to her before she moved out of the dormitories at Academie le Tour, Caitlyn possibly couldn't have been less surprised when the taxi taking her from college dropped her off on a large, empty lot. It might have been more painful had she remembered her mother's announcement about selling her childhood home or if she was entirely aware that she had come by the property because her father had purchased it before his death and left it to her in his will.

Instead the woman was grateful to have somewhere to go, a place to live, even if she couldn't afford to have a roof over her head for some time...

A New Life

With what was left of the money she had saved, Caitlyn called a building company. "I can only afford to have an outhouse built right now," she explained sadly to them. "It looks like I'll be camping out for awhile."

Although they didn't seem happy with the chore, the men worked steadily through two days to build the little outhouse that Caitlyn would require. Soon she had everything she needed. A little bathroom with a roof and floor, a toilet, sink and a shower as well as a refridgerator an oven and a bed. It didn't seem like much but it was everything in the world that Caitlyn had, and she loved her campsite.

Sleeping out of doors could be fun after all, couldn't it? That's what she told herself. It only took a few days, however, for her to realize just how lonely it could be, sleeping out under the stars with nobody to share her bed and keep her warm on the colder nights.

That's when she decided to give Forrest a call. It had been a few days since she spoke to him, and she realized that she was just a bit embarassed about not having a roof over her head. But she loved Forrest and couldn't avoid speaking to him forever!

"It's lonely living alone!"

The redhead hadn't realized she was nervous until the words came out all in a rush. "I miss you so much! I hate being by myself and I'm lonely! I need you here, Forrest. I need you here now."

She blushed a deep crimson as she realized what she'd said, but Forrest just chuckled from the other end of the line. "I'll come right on over, Baby. I promise. You just sit tight and I'll be there as soon as I can. I just live up the road, remember? Walking distance! Don't worry... Just sit tight."

Caitlyn's handsome beau was true to his word and arrived only a few moments later on foot. She breathed a huge sigh of relief, unable to believe she'd forgotten he lived so close to home. Eagerly she embraced him, kissing him fervently, her heart pounding. Maybe if she asked he would agree to move in with her...

"I'm so glad you're here!"

It seemed it was only now that she became shy. She stepped back for a moment and regarded Forrest with a serious expression on her face, as though to judge his potential reaction. Finally she sighed, knowing that the honest route was the best route. After all, she'd tried dishonesty before and it hadn't suited her at all. She hadn't spoken to Professor Colby since.

"Forrest... I'm lonely here, and I'm never going to earn enough money on my own as a Field Researcher. I need help and I need you. I'd love it if you were the one to help me."

Forrest looked uncomfortable for a moment. It was an amazingly blunt thing for Caitlyn Taylor to say. He scratched his head for a moment and shifted from one foot to the other. "I haven't been completely honest with you, Caitlyn..." he began.

The redhead's eyebrows shot up as she stood back, her arms crossed over her chest, and regarded the man she loved with solemnity, waiting for him to continue.

He glanced at her with a nervous expression on his face and launched right into it. "I haven't gotten a job since I was fired from my post at the Academie le Tour... I haven't got a pot to piss in Caitlyn, and I'm not sure there's anything I can do to help you."

For a moment the woman stood back, considering what she'd just heard. She didn't like the sound of it and yet she felt a swelling in her heart, an overwhelming sense of love for this man. Finally she reached forward and wrapped him in yet another tight embrace. "Then we'll make it together, Forrest," she grinned as she finally pulled away. "Even though we've got nothing to give we can give ourselves, right? Oh, and I have the pot," she added with a little giggle.

"Thank you for sticking by me, Forrest"

The next few days were slow. Forrest checked the papers every morning for a suitable job, one that would make them enough money at least to get started. For days it seemed that the listings were skimpy and worthless, and Caitlyn indulged him while he waited for the career that would best suit him. It was nearly a week before something popped up.

It was while Caitlyn served cereal for breakfast right before she left for work herself that he found it. "The military! Why didn't I think of that before! It's perfect. Caitlyn, I'll join the military. Then we'll be set!"

Although she wasn't so sure, Caitlyn nodded her head agreeably as she dressed in her lab coat and headed for her carpool. He'd start work the next day at least, and while not the same, their shifts would be similar -- they'd still get to see one another.

"It could be worse... We might not have a fridge!"

Months passed and Caitlyn Taylor and Forrest Trottier were happy together, though they were still camping out under the stars. It seemed that Forrest's money was disappearing as quickly as he could earn it and Caitlyn wasn't sure exactly where it was going. She tried to keep her mouth shut, however and to not imagine a problem with alcohol or other such. Perhaps Forrest was just a big spender who needed the money for some pursuit of his own. But why wasn't he telling her?

She'd find out on a beautiful spring day in May. Forrest arrived home from work with an enormous grin on his face. He looked just like a cat that had gotten the cream when he immediately approached Caitlyn and looked her in the eyes. "I have to talk to you about something serious, Cait. I want you to listen, because this is very serious." The expression in his grey eyes, however, was mirthful and the redhead nearly gave a laugh.

"Alright, Forrest, I'm listening."

"Are you sure? This is serious," the man repeated as he slowly lowered himself onto one knee.

Caitlyn's brow creased as she watched the strange behavior of the man she loved. "Forrest, what are you doing?" she asked, a little embarassed as one of the neighbors walked past, wrinkling her nose in distain at the living situation of the young couple.

"What are you doing down there, Forrest?"

"I know you've been worried about where the money has been going, Caitlyn. And I'm sure you would have been happy if I'd built you the house of your dreams with what I've spent in the meantime... But I am sure you are going to be glad I made the choice that I did... Because the choice I made is just as lasting as a house could ever be..."

He reached into his pocket and from within it's depths pulled out a small black velvet box...

"A Present? For me? Whatever could it be?"

Caitlyn's brow furrowed again. Jewelry? He'd spent the money they were supposed to be saving for a house on jewelry? for a moment an outraged expression passed over her fine features and hurt clouded Forrest's eyes. He faltered and then continued with what he had planned, struggling not to let Caitlyn's anger get in the way of what he wanted to do.

"For me? Really? A diamond? What does this mean?"

"Caitlyn, I have loved you since the first moment I saw you in my Mathmatics class..." Forrest continued without faltering. "I knew that I wanted to make you my wife one day. I know we can't even afford a roof over our heads yet, let alone a wedding,but I want to spend the rest of my life with you and I hope you feel the same way about me. I would be honored if you would be my wife..."

"Forrest!" Caitlyn gasped as he put the ring on her finger. "You saved money all this time just to buy me a ring?" She gaped at him for a moment and then a wide grin spread across her face.

"Forrest it's beautiful..."

Caitlyn held the ring up in the sunlight and admired it for a long moment. It wasn't a roof over their heads and certainly wasn't the house she had hoped to have one day, but it was something more than that... It was an enduring expression of his love for her. An expression of his desire to start a family with her. An expression of a desire to give her something so much more lasting than a house. A desire to give her a legacy that would live after her.

"Forrest it's beautiful..."

"Forrest, I love you too!" Caitlyn gasped as she leapt into his arms and held tightly around his neck. "You've done all this for me! I can't wait to live our lives together as man and wife! I can't wait to start a family with you and to be together for the rest of our lives. Forrest... Forrest I love you!"

"Of course I'll marry you!"

Amnesia...

2005-03-30T10:48:00.000-08:00

Junior Year -- First Semester & Senior Year -- First & Second Semesters

For an entire semester Caitlyn had managed not to think about her mother's fatal illness. She had found ways of avoiding the issue in her own mind by focusing on her studies, struggling to maintain her 4.0 Grade Point Average in spite of the distress she was feeling internally. She saw Forrest when she could, but their relationship was changed. She couldn't be sure if it was because of her revelation about Professor Colby or if it was because of the strain she was feeling about what the future held for her family.

The studying had paid off and she had received another S1,200 in grants for another A+ semester and her name being on the Dean's list. Still it didn't seem satisfying, although she knew that eventually her good grades would lead her to the best job she was qualified to work. But even that knowledge didn't make things easier.

Caitlyn had been careful not to tell many people about her mother's illness. She didn't want the sympathy. Although Forrest tried to keep her happy, she found herself avoiding him now that he knew about the fate that awaited her mother and herself. She didn't want to burden him with her sorrows, although he often offered to take care of her when he could.

The young redhead couldn't hide her secret from everyone, however. Ma Taylor had phoned the old family friend, Professor Mendoza, to ask him to check on Caitlyn. Wracked with guilt for having interrupted her daughter's schooling to tell her of the terrible news, the old woman had hoped that the professor would be able to offer some comfort to her daughter.

"How are you holding up, Kiddo?"

Although Caitlyn accepted the professor's sympathy, she still wanted to be left alone. The embrace was almost stiff and somehwat uncomfortable between two people who considered themselves to be best friends. Caitlyn quickly turned away from the older man, tears in her eyes. She didn't need the reminder and asked him abruptly to leave.

Although Professor Mendoza was slightly hurt by the dismissal, he understood his young friend's feelings and stepped back to watch as she went once again through the glass doors of the dormitories. He sighed softly as he watched her go and shook his head sadly.

Trying to take her mind off sad things and move into a happier place, Caitlyn made her way into the dayroom and went straight to the chess table. It had been her father who had first taught her to play chess and she still enjoyed the game as a remembrance of him. She tried to clear her mind and focus on the game as he had taught it to her, forcing her mother's illness out of her mind, even if only for a short time...

It had been her father's game...

The focus on her studies made the second semester of her Junior year fly by with an amazing speed. Caitlyn had no time for her friends now. She had work to be done. One day she would find the cure for whatever had afflicted her father, and if she was in time she might cure her mother's cancer too.

It was something to drive her, but as her Senior year began, Caitlyn realized that she no longer wanted to live in the domitories. Life there was too distracting and it prevented her from focusing on what was important -- the opportunity to become a doctor.

Finally it seemed that there was enough grant money in the bank to allow her to afford off-campus accomodation. She checked the internet for listings and found a place that seemed perfect: A small house that was suitable for her to focus on her studies, but one which was large enough to also allow her the pleasure of having company join her once in awhile. That company, of course, would be in the form of Forrest Trottier.

A New Place -- A New Start?

Forrest was, of course, the first person to visit Caitlyn at her new home off-campus. It had been weeks since she had last seen or even spoken with him, and she greeted him with a passionate kiss. He held her for a long moment, rocking her in his arms and rubbing her back.

"I need you Forrest!"

It was time for the tears to fall. Caitlyn held tightly to her former professor and now friend and lover, soaking his suit jacket with her tears. He held her gently, soothing her and waiting for the flood to abate. Finally she drew back, wiping her eyes and nose on the sleeve of her blazer. "I'm sorry," she whispered weakly. "It's just been so difficult. And I've missed you..."

Forrest forced a weak smile. "I I've missed you too, Baby," he whispered, pulling her back into his arms for a tight embrace. "I'm sorry that things have been so difficult. But Professor Mendoza says that your mother might recover yet..."

"It's just a matter of time," Caitlyn sighed. "Unless they find a cure, she isn't going to survive...

It was a sad statement and a sad fact. Both her mother and Professor Mendoza had explained it to her. Unless a cure was found within six months, her mother was going to die.

Time passed and Caitlyn continued to focus on her studies for another semester. Making the Dean's List had become easy for the red haired student now that she no longer had the distractions of living in a dorm. At times the solitude felt good at at other times it was lonely. When things were rough she would invite Forrest over for a chat and to spend some time together. These days it seemed she didn't even give Professor Colby a thought...

At the beginning of her second semester as a Senior, however, something went tragically wrong. Though she couldn't explain it, Caitlyn was certain from the moment the phone began ringing. She didn't want to answer it and yet rushed for the receiver, putting it to her ear. It was Professor Mendoza's sad voice that greeted her.

"I've been called to your mother's bedside," he explained. "The doctors don't expect her to make it through the night. Caitlyn, she's asking for you. Is there a way you can come?"

A ripple of shock passed through the Senior. Though she had prepared herself for the news, she had never expected to receive it. For a long moment she stood still, staring into space, her chest tight as she tried to find a response, tried to make a decision. Her father had been alone when he died in his hospital bed. She didn't want her mother to suffer the same fate.

"I'll be there," she whispered hoarsly so that Professor Mendoza could barely understand her words. She cleared her throat and repeated them, this time with more conviction. "I'll be there."

"I'll be there..."

Nothing could have prepared Caitlyn for seeing her mother, nearly lifeless, laying in a hospital bed. Tubes were coming from everywhere, her nose, her mouth, the IV in her arm... For a moment Caitlyn almost wanted to run, but Professor Mendoza took her hand and led her to her mother's bedside.

The old woman opened her eyes briefly and looked up at Caitlyn with a sad expression on her face. There was some clarity left in those eyes as the old woman gazed upon her daughter. "We haven't long," she said, her voice rasping with the effort of speech. "I needed you to know... I needed you to know that your father and I loved you very much... and that I'm proud of you..."

The dying woman took a deep breath and an alarm sounded somewhere, bringing doctors and nurses rushing into the room. "We're going to have to ask you to leave now," they said to the young woman and her professor. "We'll let you know if it's alright to return." Quickly they shooed the pair out of the room, leaving Caitlyn in shocked tears.

She just stared at the door to her mother's hospital room for a long time, trying to understand it all. She was certain -- her mother was dead. She'd never see her again. Emotion rushed the young woman and suddenly the world went dark. She fell to the ground in a heap, leaving Professor Mendoza hovering over her, struggling to revive her.

Revival only happened hours later. She had woken up once in a panic and sedatives had been administered to keep the young woman calm. Finally she opened her eyes, gazing up at Professor Mendoza with a confused expression on her face.

"Wh... Where am I?"

Professor Mendoza gently squeezed her hand. "You're in the hospital, kiddo. We were visiting your mother and then you passed out on me. How are you feeling?"

"M-my mother? Is she in the hospital? What's going on!?"

Caitlyn quickly sat up in her hospital bed, staring at Professor Mendoza questioningly. His eyes widened as he understood. The shock of her mother's illness had slowly been eating away at Caitlyn and now it's results were clear. She had developed amnesia!

***

It was a few days before the doctors would allow Caitlyn to return home. Nobody talked about her mother, so worried were they about upsetting the redhead into another incident. Though her memories of events were gone, she blissfully recognized her old friends.

Forrest was there to greet her when she returned with Professor Mendoza to her little off-campus house. Though she was shy with them, it didn't take long before her heart remembered her love for him. He was grateful for her recognition and vowed to Professor Mendoza that he would take care of Caitlyn.

A first kiss... Again...

Caitlyn hadn't forgotten her studies either, and though the final exam was only days following her return from the hospital, Forrest sent her off with confidence. She'd overslept and with her new, clumsier thinking, forgot to change into her every day clothes, instead attending the exam in her nightgown.

The Final Final

Thankfully her state of dress had no bearing on the outcome of the exams. With another A+ report card in hand, and memories of her mother lost, Caitlyn was ready to celebrate!

Quickly she changed into her cap and gown and made the necessary phone calls. She invited some of her favorite people (those she still remembered!) to come and see her off at graduation. Berjes, Emmie and Forrest and Professor Mendoza topped the list. Though she thought about inviting Professor Colby she decided against it.

Party Time!

Caitlyn decided that live music would be the best thing for a good party, and who better to provide the music than Caitlyn herself! Her friend Berjes chipped in on the guitar while Caitlyn played the bass. Though the music was fantastic and Emmie seemed to be enjoying it, an argument between Forrest and Professor Mendoza put a damper on the party...

Making Music on Graduation Day

The party ended without much excitement. Caitlyn hadn't even considered renting a keg or starting a bonfire, and things didn't go down too well... Though she would wish later that the party had been more of a success, she was satisfied to know that University life was over for her and it was time to start a new life.

Caitlyn Grows Up

Where would her new life take her? There was no way to know. All Caitlyn knew was that she was ready for whatever the world had in store for her!

Back to the Books

2005-03-29T15:47:00.000-08:00

Junior Year -- First Semester

It felt as though things might just be starting to calm down. The decision had been made: she'd break it off with Colby as soon as she saw him next. Things were going well with Forrest. He would forgive her and they would move on with their lives together.

Together! It was an amazing thought! Caitlyn had never realized she could feel so deeply for one person. The love her parents had shared when she was young had been a pure and abiding love, one she never thought she would experience. Now it seemed that love was a reality for the young redhead as it had been for her parents. She looked forward to what the future would bring for Forrest Trottier and herself.

It had been a long time since Caitlyn had spoken to her mother. When the phone rang she never expected it to be the older woman, but when it rang that day it was good to hear her mother's voice. Caitlyn was excited with all the news she had to share!

Fateful News

She didn't get a chance to tell her news, however.

"Caitlyn... It's bad..." Ma Taylor told her daughter over the phone. "If I could, I would have come to the campus to give you this news, but I'm rather confined at the moment..." Her mother's voice was steady and firm yet Caitlyn could hear a sad edge to it. "I had to sell the house, Caitlyn."

There was a long pause while Caitlyn took in this news. While she had hoped to be able to afford her own house after graduation she had also known that it would be almost impossible for her to do so. Her plan had been to move back in with her mother for a period of time before striking out on her own. What could have happened?

There was a sigh from the other end of the line. "Sweetheart... I'm sick. It's cancer and they don't think I'm going to survive. I had to sell the house to pay the bills..."

It was difficult news to take. Caitlyn wasn't sure what to say and nearly hung the phone up before she had a chance to speak with her mother. Tears formed in her eyes as she stared into space, trying to come to terms with what she was being told. First her father, now her mother too?

"I can't stay on the phone, Cait," her mother told her. "But I wanted you to know. I won't be able to visit you at school... But I don't want you dropping out to take care of me. You have dreams -- I want them to come true."

There were no goodbyes. Ma Taylor simply hung up the phone, leaving her daughter in a state of shock as she stared at the dead receiver in her hand.

"I'll find a cure, Mom. I swear I will!" she muttered to herself as she placed it back on the cradle. "I'll find a cure!"

Almost immediately the young woman picked the phone up again and dialed it quickly. She needed Forrest. She needed him NOW!

"I'll be there right away," he told her as soon as he heard the distress in her voice. "I'll be there right away."

Caitlyn walked in a daze to the door to look out for her beau. She needed him now more than ever. If the decision hadn't already been made it would have been made for her now. Forrest was the one she loved. Forrest was the one she called when she was in need. Forrest was everything she had now.

When she saw him she flew to his arms, rushing to him, desperate for his embrace.

"I need you Forrest!"

When their lips had parted Forrest held Caitlyn back at arm's length, looking deeply into her eyes. "What is it, Caitlyn? What has you so upset?"

She wanted to burst into tears, to lean on him, but instead she took a deep breath and explained to her former professor what her mother had told her. "And I might never see her again!" she stammered finally as the tears came hard and fast. Forrest held the young redhead in his arms and stroked her hair as she cried.

"I'm sorry Baby..." he muttered to her, unable to think of anything to say. "I'm so sorry..."

Caitlyn pulled away, brushing at her tears. "I have to study," she whispered, rushing back into the dorm. She didn't know if she could continue to face him now. They would talk later, but for now... For now she needed to get her mind off the tragedies that kept striking her family.

She found solace in her books. She would make it to being a doctor one day! She would find the cause of the disease that had struck her father down, and she would find the cure for her mother's cancer. And she would do it before her mother had a chance to die!

She Sought Solace in her Studies...

Caitlyn studied through the night before her final exams. This "A+" would be dedicated to her parents, who had struggled so hard throughout their brief lives to provide for her. It would be dedicated to the parents she would one day save. She would find retribution for them in the medical field. She would see that their illnesses, their deaths, were not in vain. She would ensure that nobody ever had to suffer the way she had, that nobody would ever face the same great losses.

Earning her "A"

The term paper was complete just hours before it was due. She rushed it to Professor Mendoza's office and then returned to her dorm to catch some sleep before the final exam. There was no doubt in Caitlyn's mind that she would pass with flying colors. She had to. It was her "A" that would save her mother!

A Romance to Remember -- Pt. 2

2005-03-25T13:57:00.000-08:00

Sophmore Year -- Second Semester

The thoughts were swirling through Caitlyn's head so fast she couldn't keep track of them all. It seemed that her head was spinning with the internal feud between Professors Forrest and Colby. She wanted each of them on one level or another and each in unique ways, but she wasn't sure how to make the decision she knew would ultimately need to be made. She loved Forrest: That much was true and obvious. But she had feelings for Colby now too!

Either way, one of the two men was going to be disappointed by the decision she was going to have to make!

In the meantime one semester had ended and a new one had begun. It seemed that celebration should have been in order in spite of the raging emotions that the young woman was facing. She needed to relieve some stress and have some fun. That was exactly what she needed to do!

She'd seen another redheaded girl -- a senior, and certainly by the time a girl becomes a senior she knows what she's doing! -- running around campus without a stitch of clothing on. Vaguely Caitlyn could remember her father mentioning that in his college days this was called 'streaking.'

It might just be worth a shot! Caitlyn thought to herself. Even as she considered it she began to giggle. It was only moments before she'd stripped off all of her clothes and was running through her dorm. Though it seemed that nobody noticed her antics, Caitlyn had a great, stress-relieving time before her first class of the new semester!

As Caitlyn returned from class three hours later she mulled over something in her mind. She'd been thinking about it ever since that first talk with Professor Colby about his dual degrees. He'd said he had a degree in both Mathmatics and Biology, and Caitlyn had begun to consider a change of major.

It might get her away from Professor Colby for long enough to get a handle on her feelings at least. With a sigh that was tinged with both sadness and relief, Caitlyn headed for the computer in the lounge to make the switch. She knew that he wouldn't be disappointed in her decision, but she also knew that it meant that now she would be seeing neither of her loves on a regular basis.

The first thing Caitlyn did as soon as her major had been changed was to make sure she gave her new professor, Professor Nicholas Mendoza, a call. She'd want to talk to him and get to know him too. After all, wasn't that how she'd been getting out of doing any studying since she entered university? It was a cheap way to make it through and she might not have been learning anything, but what was college for if not to celebrate the last age during which a person could be care-free?

And care-free Caitlyn was as she met Professor Mendoza in her underwear on the front step. They embraced like old friends and suddenly Caitlyn recognized him! He had been a colleague of her father's so many years ago! Patrick Taylor had worked for a zoo as a primary veterinarian and Professor Mendoza had been a zoologist who studied the behavior of the animals in captivity at the zoo.

Surprised, but happy too, Caitlyn embraced the professor again.

There was a lot of catching up to do. Professor Mendoza wanted to know all about what was going on in Caitlyn's life, and she told him about how school was going and about her relationships with both (former) Professor Forrest and Professor Colby. The biology professor swore that he would keep her secret, and then revealed some information of his own.

The older man knew both professors well. He told her that Professor Colby had been a prodigy of his and described to the young redhead about the young man's pursuit of biological excellence that began at the mere age of fifteen. So that had been how he'd managed two PhD's at such a young age! Caitlyn thought.

Professor Mendoza went on: Though Professor Colby was certainly an intelligent man who could stretch her mind, he was also deeply focused on his career at the university and was currently pursuing yet another degree, this time in economics. Professor Mendoza revealed his surprise that Professor Colby had become involved with Caitlyn at all, given his own, personal pursuits.

But, he told her, Professor Colby was also young and had never had time for romance before. Perhaps he was just now beginning to feel he needed a romantic involvement in his busy life.

Professor Forrest, on the other hand, had always desired to have a family, and Professor Mendoza felt that Forrest and Caitlyn would make a great match. The young man was friendly and outgoing, eager to find someone who fit into his life the way that Caitlyn had begun to fit -- much like the missing piece of a puzzle.

"Take your time," Professor Mendoza suggested as they prepared to part ways. "But give Forrest a call. I spoke with him earlier today and he said he hadn't heard from you in awhile. I'm not sure he doesn't suspect that something is going on..."

As they said goodbye, Caitlyn considered everything that Professor Mendoza had said. Yes, she would give Forrest a call. Professor Mendoza was right, and it was certainly Forrest she loved most deeply. She picked up the phone and invited him to meet her in her room.

Although the young man sounded surprised, he agreed. When he knocked on her door, Caitlyn was already lying on the bed, waiting for him. She had decided that they would consummate the relationship that night, provided Forrest was willing.

His expression as he entered was almost shy. Certainly the shyest that Caitlyn had seen him. It was in those grey eyes that she saw what she'd been fearing: He suspected something was going on with another man. She would prove to him now that he was the only man for her. And in doing so, she would prove it to herself as well!

Snuggling up against the man she was now sure she would one day marry, Caitlyn made what peace she could without shattering his. "I love you, Forrest. I believe I'll always love you. Please love me, too..."

The handsome young man took Caitlyn's hand and gave it a squeeze. "I do love you, Caitlyn. I hope one day you'll have me as your husband. But rumors have been flying lately that you've been seen with Professor Colby Sims. Are they true?"

Caitlyn blanched. She'd hoped she wouldn't have to address this particular issue with him tonight. "We're friends..." she said cautiously. "I thought maybe we were something more than that, but... I only want you, Forrest. Can we please just forget about Colby? I probably won't see him again anyway. I changed majors, did you hear?"

"Professor Nicholas told me, yes..." Forrest said thoughtfully, momentarily turning away from the redhead. "Are you sure it's me?"

Caitlyn took a deep breath, tears forming in her blue eyes. "I love you Forrest," she whispered quietly.

He turned back towards her. "Then that's all I need, Caitlyn Taylor. I believe you. And one day I will make you my wife. When you're ready."

Emotion swept over Caitlyn. Quickly, without thinking, much as she had the first time she met Berjes, she wrapped her arms around Forrest's neck and leaned him back on the bed, kissing him passionately. His response amazed her and immediately it felt as though fireworks were going off in her head.

It all happened so quickly, from profession to confession to profession to... Snuggling together under the covers following their very first Woo Hoo together... And for each of them their very first Woo Hoo... Period. It felt good, lying together in the afterglow... yes, it was certainly Professor Forrest that Caitlyn loved. There would be no denying that. As soon as she could afford to get her own place, she'd ask him to marry her. There was time for that though. First she had to graduate from University, because even now, dropping out was not an option...

A Romance to Remember -- Pt. 1

2005-03-25T13:37:00.000-08:00

Sophmore Year -- First Semester

Though her thoughts had turned away from her studies and had been focused for so long on her romance with Professor Forrest, the maintenence of her 4.0 grade point average couldn't have made her happier. It seemed that she'd studied less the previous semester, but she'd been on time for all of her classes and had done well on the tests. Although she'd missed the term paper Professor Forrest had given her credit for it anyway. Perhaps there was a benefit to being romantic with your professors, other than just the way it made you feel inside.

But there was a downside. Because of their romance the school decided that it no longer wanted to keep Professor Forrest in it's employ! Caitlyn was devestated, but Forrest seemed to take it in his stride. There would be other jobs in other places. Perhaps he'd find work in a laboratory somewhere or even write the dissertation he'd been considering for years.

But that put Caitlyn in an awkward position. Being so 'friendly' with Professor Forrest had it's side benefits too. She'd been able to do less studying and more socializing and had even made herself a bit of money on the side, apart from her grants!

Heading for class the next day Caitlyn wondered who would replace Professor Forrest. She knew she didn't want to have to get to know yet another person. Forrest had been the best thing that had happened to her in her young life, and in some ways her relationship with the young man had helped her to understand her feelings over the loss of her father.

But Colby Sims wasn't all that bad. Almost as handsome as Forrest, though perhaps not as intelligent, he had a bold and unique personality that commanded the classroom. Though he didn't make her heart pitter-patter like Professor Forrest did or like Berjes had done in the early days in the dorm, she knew he might be interesting to get to know.

So that night, after she'd arrived home from class and had a shower, Cailtyn took a deep breath and called Professor Colby on the phone, asking him if he'd like to come over to give her some tutoring. She didn't need the tutoring, but perhaps if she showed sufficient interest in the class he'd see fit to allow her to skip a few assignments, just as Professor Forrest had done.

Caitlyn met the new professor at the door to the dormitory and shook his hand. It seemed that they were immediately hitting it off, talking like old friends about a variety of topics, most of which had nothing to do with mathmatics at all. It turned out that Professor Colby had two degrees, one in mathmatics and the other in biology. Fascinated, Caitlyn knew that she would need to discover more about him. She'd even considered a major in biology herself! Perhaps he'd have the information she needed!

But it seemed that Professor Colby thought that there had been enough talk for one day! He was far more interested in a game of kicky bag! Cailtyn, by that time, was getting to be quite good at the game and welcomed the opportunity to have a bit of fun with the new professor and to get to know him better.

**This is perhaps the single most social activity sims can participate in and therefore it's one of the first I take advantage of as soon as it becomes available. I have a few plans for Professor Colby and Caitlyn as I'm sure you've already noted (and certainly will note as the story progresses!) and this was a fast way to get them to know one another!**

As it was time to say goodbye, however, it seemed that Professor Colby had more than just an interest in Caitlyn's grades. In fact, it seemed that the interest was far more personal than that! Though she was surprised, Caitlyn was also incredibly flattered by his flirtations. She thought briefly of Professor Forrest, her first and most important love. A small smile crossed over her features as she remembered their last meeting, the stress of their romance seeming to fade for a moment. Instead of seeing Professor Colby in front of her, she saw Professor Forrest, her one true love.

The flirt was accepted and the two parted, promising to see one another the next day. Colby's interest was clearly genuine, though Caitlyn, for her part, wasn't yet sure...

It was the next day that she decided she'd have to say something to Professor Colby about the incident that had occured. She also knew she'd have to mention it to Professor Forrest, just to ensure that they continued to be honest with one another.

Class had been a bit stressful that day, with Professor Colby continually looking her way with a secret grin that made her smile at first and then become uncomfortable. Yes, she was going to have to say something.

Checking to see that nobody else was around and watching, she slipped into the bathroom where she could use the mirror to practice the speech she would deliver to her new professor later. If she rehearsed what she was going to say it might make things a lot easier for her.

Nervously, she repeated several phrases until she was sure she had it right. The speech was so well ingrained in her mind now that she was certain she wouldn't forget it. It was time to talk to Professor Colby. She' deal with Forrest later.

As soon as she met him outside the front door, however, it became clear that Professor Colby had no intention of listening to the lines she had practiced so hard only moments before! In fact, his flirtations simply continued, catching Caitlyn off-guard and making her heart beat hard in a familiar way that astonished her. She only thought of Forrest for a moment before her focus swiftly changed to the new professor.

Oh, what the heck? Caitlyn thought to herself. The pull between them was strong and there was a definite chemistry. She was beginning to wonder why she hadn't decided to major in chemistry until she realized that it wasn't available at Academie le Tour.

It was a brief kiss, but enough to speak volumes. Professor Colby was eager, certainly more eager than Caitlyn herself, but the press of his mouth on hers made her tingle. It wasn't how she felt for Professor Forrest, but it was feeling -- a very unique feeling.

Caitlyn had to know... Had to know if her feelings were genuine for Professor Colby. Eagerly, she pounced on him, locking their lips together in a tight embrace. He returned her kiss with just as much eagerness and as they parted, both felt their hearts pounding.

Overwhelmed, Caitlyn jumped into his arms and hugged him tight. The feeling was special, like a friend who would always be there. A best friend, a companion, someone who understood her and everything about her. She held tight around his neck for a long moment and then he grinned, moving with her still in his arms as he carried her into the dorm.

Caitlyn had already replaced her dorm bed with a double bed in the hopes of some steamy nights with Professor Forrest, and it was there that Professor Colby deposited her. Soon he had joined her and they were holding hands, kissing in the assumed privacy of her dorm room.

The young redhead was swooning. There was certainly passion here... A passion she hadn't yet felt with Professor Forrest. But could she take the relationship to the 'next level?' That was something she'd have to think about very carefully before she did anything more!

**It's a rough guess that this is where the first semester ended. I had originally planned on doing the entire year as one chapter but this seemed like the right place to leave off in the story as far as the pictures I have at this point are concerned.

The next chapter is coming directly, so there will be two chapters in one day today! Hope you liked this installment! Who knows what's going to happen next?**

Finding Forrest

2005-03-24T14:14:00.000-08:00

Freshman Year -- Second Semester

To celebrate the success of her first A+ and additional grants, Caitlyn decided to give Professor Forrest a call. After all, she had a lot to thank him for, didn't she? He was the one who had helped her to obtain the grades she had finally received and he'd reminded her about that ever-important term paper!

Happy to have had his help, Caitlyn was happy to see him and the pair greeted one another with a kiss to the cheek and a wide grin. "So how did you do?" Professor Forrest asked with a twinkle in his eye.

"I made the Dean's List!" the young redhead squealed in delight. "Can you believe it? I made the Dean's List!"

Professor Forrest just chuckled. "I knew you could do it! You worked pretty hard. What are your plans for the next semester?"

Caitlyn shrugged. "I'm not sure yet. I've got to think some about that." But as she glanced up at her professor her heart started pounding in that strange way again. Oh, maybe she DID know what she was going to do with the next semester. And it involved Professor Forrest Trottier!

It wasn't without a blush painting her maiden cheeks that Caitlyn smiled up at her professor. It was a coy expression, but he took it in his stride. "How can I ever thank you?" she asked, batting her eyelashes at the handsome young PhD.

He grinned slightly. "You know, my shoulders are kind of stiff," he hinted, rolling his neck to get the point completely across.

With a smile, Caitlyn made the offer. "Would you like me to rub your shoulders for you? You do look awefully tense!

Then, just as Professor Forrest's shoulders were beginning to feel somewhat less tense... "WHAM!" he hit his red-headed student with a pillow he had seemingly pulled from within his pocket. Within an instant Caitlyn had managed to find her own pillow and they were chasing one another around the yard, feathers flying.

It was a good giggle and a good release of the tension of final exams. Panting, Caitlyn grinned up at her handsome instructor. "Gotta run. Class time! You coming?"

But by the time she had finished her thought, he was out of earshot, in the dorm and having breakfast. Caitlyn shot him a confused look and shrugged her shoulders, bolting off to ensure she got to class on time.

Did Professor Forrest ever make it to class? Just a few minutes late!

The first class of the new semester brought new challenges, as Caitlyn soon found out. She realized shortly that it wouldn't all be pillow fights and fun with Professor Forrest but that there were others who expected her work to be completed. And that meant some study time.

The lounge was quiet that evening as she sat down with her book to read up on the history mathmatic theory. It was a boring study, but she made it through the necessary chapters and finally, with a sigh of relief, thought she was done.

Only to remember that there had been an essay assigned. Sighing, she grabbed her composition book and pen and sat down in the cafeteria, her hand moving as quickly as she could to get the work done. The last thing she wanted to be doing was sitting there working on another assignment. There was fun to be had!

At least the work was finished in time to meet with Professor Forrest for their date that night! He let himself in and met her in the cafeteria area, a silly grin on his face that reminded her of a schoolboy with a crush.

Indeed, it must have been a crush, because a moment later they were in one another's arms, their lips locked as they embraced! Caitlyn could feel her blood heating up again as she pressed herself to him and sighed softly, not wanting to let him go.

Like all good things, however, it had to come to an end. As Caitlyn watched her crush disappear into the distance, she remembered about her bills. It seemed that they were always piling up! She reached into the mailbox and took them indoors where she could write the necessary cheques out of her grant money. Now if only that little red flag would stay down for awhile!

**Has anybody else noticed that sometimes college sims DON'T get bills? I've played one sim through their entire four years without ever having to pay the bills!**

The next day seemed to drag by slowly. Professor Forrest wasn't in class that day and a student was substituting for him. Nothing could have been more boring than listening to a physics major prattle on about formulas and other such nonsense. Caitlyn was beginning to think about reconsidering her major. Maybe biology. Living things had always fascinated her!

But then she would miss Professor Forrest, she reasoned as she headed back to the dorm with another assignment in hand. She would take care of that immediately and then give him a call to see how he was doing. She was worried. After all, it wasn't every day that a professor didn't show up for class!

The handsome young PhD picked up the phone almost immediately and Caitlyn breathed a huge sigh of relief. "I was worried about you!" she exclaimed. The man only chuckled and promised that he had been planning to come by anyway and that he'd be there within a few minutes.

And he was!

A romantic kiss under the stars was their greeting, and Caitlyn knew that her feelings for this professor were becoming more than what a student 'should' feel for the man who was giving her an education.

Feeling an impulsive rush of affection for the man who had become so much more than an instructor to her, Caitlyn leapt into Professor Forrest's arms, holding tight to him. Something was certainly beginning to develop between the professor and his student.

Something was certainly beginning to develop between the professor and his student and as they locked lips again in a tight embrace Caitlyn realized that her feelings were becoming more and more 'involved.' In fact, she had never felt this way about another man in her entire life!

There were so many feelings, so much she was going to have to work on. As she said goodbye to Professor Forrest a tear came to her eye. She wanted to chase after him or to call him back, invite him to spend the night, ask him to marry her, to take her away from the sadness of the life she knew before she met him.

Instead she turned to go inside. There were other things she needed to attend to. Money was beginning to run a bit shorter at the end of the semester and the bills still needed to be paid. Dorm life was seeming increasingly dull now that her relationship with Professor Forrest had begun heating up and Caitlyn knew she'd feel more comfortable now in a private house off-campus -- much as she had originally believed. She would still be able to give Berjes, Starla and Emmie a call when she wanted to talk to them or visit with them.

For now she donned the apron and cap of a cafeteria worker where she would slave away over a hot stove to make meals for her dorm mates. It would only last long enough to earn her some of the money she felt she needed, but even that amount of time was too much.

Suddenly, with everything else that had made her head spin, she realized with a sort of sadness that what she really wanted to do was return to her studies and work on excelling in the mathmatics program... Or any program she might eventually settle into.

Painting had always relieved stress for the young woman, and so she headed into the dorm lounge to work on her painting. She wasn't an art major and with good reason: she wasn't a particularly good artist! Practice, on the other hand, makes perfect. Maybe this painting would be better than some of those she'd done in the past...

...Or maybe it would make the art professors sick to their stomach. Caitlyn sighed as she hung her ugly painting on the wall of her dorm room. It wasn't much but it was something she had done. Maybe in time she'd send it to her mother to hang on her wall. Ma Taylor had always loved everything that Caitlyn had drawn or painted and the redhead was sure her mother wouldn't reject even something as ugly as this most recent "work of art."

It was the night before final exams and Caitlyn knew she would have to sleep. As she struggled to find comfort instead she found herself dreaming of Professor Forrest and the decisions she might ultimately have to make. Was he a family man? Would he make a good father? Did he love her as much as she loved him? She'd have to talk to him after finals to find out...

**I thought you all might enjoy this picture I shot. This was the actual moment when Professor Forrest fell in love with Caitlyn (it was a few interactions later that she returned his feelings). I was trying to get a good shot of it and put the walls up only to find that their heads went right through the walls! I missed a fairly good shot this way and I was disappointed, but the resulting funny is kind of cool too!**

A Legacy Begins

2005-03-24T04:24:00.000-08:00

Freshman Year -- First Semester

Her name was Caitlyn Taylor and she was eighteen years old. Though she was still young, her life had been hectic. She lost her father to an unknown and ultimately fatal illness when she was eight years old, leaving her with scars that would never quite heal. If it hadn't been for her mother's faith in the young woman she might have allowed herself to be buried in her grief.

Instead, she had thrown herself into her studies, and now was faced with the greatest opportunity of all -- the chance to attend University at Academie le Tour to complete her degree. She knew exactly what she wanted to do with her life: she was going to be a doctor and she would ultimately find the answer to the mystery that had killed her father.

Caitlyn Taylor -- Our Founder

Though at first she thought she might far prefer to live alone in an off-campus house or apartment, Caitlyn hadn't received sufficient grant money to allow her to do so. That meant living in one of the dorms. While the thought was far from appealing, she quickly found that there were benefits -- everything she needed to advance herself in college was directly at her fingertips!

At first the young woman was loathe to choose a major. There were too many things that she wanted to do, too many things that could be explored in her dorm and on the campus. So, while it had been a long time since she had picked up a paint brush, she decided to make the easel her first stop. Learning to paint might further her potential, especially if it would help her to understand those complicated anatomy diagrams she was sure to be looking at in her future career as a doctor. Maybe one day she'd even be the one drawing the diagrams!

"Maybe I'll Declare Art as my Major..."

Memories of her father haunted Caitlyn as she tried to settle herself into dorm life. She missed her mother, but most of all she wanted the comfort of knowing Daddy was proud of her. Her mother had informed her when she left for the Academie that her father would have, indeed, been very proud of his daughter, and that comforted the young woman some.

Still, she didn't want to be around people just yet and the courtyard seemed like a quiet place to enjoy the evening meal by herself. Though the music played softly in the background, the shrill sound of newly free young adults couldn't be heard. Yes, it was quite relaxing indeed!

Nice and Peaceful in the Courtyard...

It wasn't long, however, before the stillness was broken by the gleeful cries of the other youths as they began pouring into the dorm for their first day, choosing their rooms and some of them even finding old friends. Caitlyn, for her part, knew nobody. Suddenly the feeling became cold and lonely. Biting back a tear as she thought of her father, Caitlyn stood up, braced her shoulders and...

Ran smack into one of the cutest boys she'd ever seen!

Flustered, she didn't know what to say to him. She stammered for a moment and then blurted out "I'd really like to kiss you!"

Without missing a beat the yong man just laughed and shook his head. He was understanding about how romance could be, especially for those with little experience. He, on the other hand, would have had Caitlyn believe he'd been with plenty of girls in the past.

It didn't bother her. He had her interest. A few moments of chat and a short dance together had her heart pumping. There wasn't much time though! Caitlyn glanced at her watch, realizing with a start that she was about to be late for her first class!

"I'd Really Like to Kiss You!"

Berjes must have had some interest in Caitlyn, too, because he followed her through the front door on her way to class. She tried to still the thudding of her heart and to keep the blush from her face as she considered the potential consequences of her outburst. At least he hadn't run in the opposite direction!

Glancing over her shoulder, she wondered if it might not be possible that Berjes was heading to the same class as she was...

Going to Class with Berjes

Unfortunately, however, as she reached the building her class was scheduled in, Berjes was no longer behind her. He had gone in his own direction and she had taken hers. With a sigh she took her seat and listened to the instructors talk about the history of the world.

All in all, it couldn't have been more boring. Oddly, she found that she couldn't wait to get back to the dorm. At least there was more excitement going on there.

But when she returned she noticed that the flag on her mailbox was indicating that she had new mail. She opened the box and was disappointed to find that all it contained were bills that had to be paid. Unhappy to see some of the little money she had disappear so quickly, she paid them in the hopes of moving on to something better, or at least more interesting and certainly less costly.

"I hate Bills!"

The lounge was equipt with a chess board, and Caitlyn liked that. She peeked her head through the door first to see if others had gathered there and at first she was alone. Happily she sat down in one of the seats to enjoy some practice. She'd learned once that playing chess could increase a person's IQ and wondered idly if that were true. Whether it was or it wasn't was irrelevent, however. Chess was a game she enjoyed.

A nice quiet game...

It seemed that Starla Collins enjoyed chess too. It wasn't long before the redhead was joined by her blonde dorm-mate. Though she might have liked to refuse to play a game with the other young woman, she stammered for a moment and finally agreed. Though Starla didn't seem happy with Caitlyn's reaction, it turned out to be a good game of chess, and she could feel a friendship beginning to blossom.

Maybe there was more to college than studying after all!

With Starla??

When the blonde headed off for class, however, Caitlyn realized that some studying still needed to be done. Though suddenly the prospect wasn't as enjoyable as it had been before, she grabbed her textbook and found a quiet spot in the lounge where she could read over the chapters that had been assigned. It wasn't fascinating reading, but it had to be done. She'd have to think about declaring a major soon -- then at least the subjects would be something that might interest her!

Hitting the Books

For some reason studying seemed depressing now that she had begun to meet some of the other members of her dorm. But Caitlyn knew what would pick her spirits up! There was nothing quite like a good rush to make her feel better and no better way to get it than a workout. There was an exercise machine in the lounge and she headed straight for it, allowing the tension in her muscles to relieve the tension in her mind.

Certainly it made her feel better!

**I had forgotten to reset the dorm after the last time I'd used it and the exercise machine had been added to prevent having to go to community lots since they make my computer slow down AND it takes two sim hours to get to one (wasting a lot of time in the process). So that's where the equiptment came from!**

Getting a Workout!

Afterwards she knew that it was time to declare her major. There was some added strain of not knowing where she was going with her college career and not knowing what subjects were best studied. It seemed that she had met a few of the math majors on campus and that they were enjoying their studies. A quick trip to the college website and she was set. Math had been declared as her major!

And that left something else she felt needed to be done. She'd heard a few things about one of the Freshman Math professors -- Forrest Trottier -- and she was interested. She also had a few questions she wanted to ask him about her major and the choices she could make from there.

She found the number in the campus directory and quickly dialed it before her nerves stopped her. She didn't want to be blurting out anything stupid this time!

It seemed wisest to invite him to the dorm so that she could meet with him face-to-face. He was quick to accept the invitation and the young woman hurried out onto the dorm's porch to wait for him.

Phoning Forrest

He was everything she'd heard about him! Tall, handsome and most of all, smart! Eagerly Caitlyn shook the young professor's hand and invited him to come inside. She felt her heart begin to beat rapidly again. It wasn't long before she'd nearly forgotten all about Berjes. For right now she was more interested in Professor Forrest Trottier -- and in what he could do for her grade.

Getting to Know Professor Forrest Trottier

What was more, he was fun! Professor Forrest suggested a game of kicky bag to break the ice. Caitlyn led him into dorm-mate Rose's room and waited while Professor Forrest brought out his worn red and white bag. Soon they were laughing together as they kicked the bag back and forth. Caitlyn giggled when she missed, but Professor Forrest took a more serious view of the moments the little bag dropped to the floor.

A competative streak. Caitlyn thought to herself that she liked that. Her father had been competative and it was something he'd passed on to her. She filed the information in the back of her mind and glanced at Rose who seemed unhappy that her privacy was being invaded by their game.

**I'm not sure why but any time I offer a game of kicky bag on a dorm porch the pair finds the nearest dorm room, enters it, and plays there. In this case Rose didn't seem all that happy about the game taking place in her room. And why would she? She and Caitlyn hadn't even met!

Shortly afterwards I had six (!) sims in her room. I think it's because I moved the furniture out to get the shot (the picture would have been blocked by the desk if I hadn't done so). Then I had to move the bed out because the gathering was blocking the game! Ack!**

The time was getting on, however, and Forrest and Caitlyn said goodbye to their new friends long enough to get to class just a few minutes late. Having run all the way, the pair was panting when they arrived and shared a secret grin.

Two hours later, as the redhead left the classroom Professor Forrest reminded her "Don't forget about that term paper, Caitlyn! Just because we're friends now doesn't mean I'll give you credit if you don't finish it!"

Sighing Caitlyn returned to the dorms. The term paper had been the last thing on her mind and although she was grateful for the reminder to complete it, she would have far preferred hanging out with Berjes and Starla. She was already forgetting her shyness upon first moving into the dorms and now realized how much fun college life could be!

It was nearly midnight when Caitlyn finally sat down to finish the paper off. She'd managed her time well, however and it wasn't long before it was finished. She checked the university website and gasped when she realized it was only hours before her final exam!

Once again her heart was pounding. Unable to calm herself and unable to sleep, the redhead headed for the bathrooms. Certainly, without custodial services there was something there that needed to be cleaned. When she got nervous, she cleaned. "Have I spent enough time on my studies?" she asked herself. "Or have I been playing too much? Do I know the answers to all the questions that are on the exam? What about that advanced algebra?"

Panic was setting in, but the rush of cleaning helped to calm her shattered nerves...

Though maybe not enough to allow her to remember to change her clothes before heading off to take the exam. While there were others wandering around campus in their pajamas or even their underwear, it was one of Caitlyn's worst nightmares. She had nearly reached the classroom before she realized her mistake and it was too late to turn back then! Frightened that everyone would laugh at her, she took a deep breath and stepped into the lecture hall.

Professor Forrest didn't even seem to notice her unusual attire and gave her a broad grin. Returning the smile, Caitlyn sat down to wait to be allowed to begin the exam...

Success! With an A+ report and an additional S1,200 in hand, Caitlyn spent the entire walk back to her dorm with a huge grin on her face. It was the end of a semester but potentially the beginning of a new life. Though she tried, she couldn't imagine what the future held. And for the first time, she was pretty sure she liked that idea!