Chapter 3

Day 14

It had been a crazy night in the Langdon household.  The birth of the twins kept me up almost all night.  Despite his evil trait though, Alec still understood I needed some help from him. He really was a sweet boy...

Except, you know... he wasn't too fond of the babies.  This is him right after stealing Abner's candy.  Abner was NOT too happy about that.  Alec didn't think I saw him, but we definitely chatted later about his behavior.  What a start to the day...

I decided to call Ethan today and invite him over.  He hasn't met the boys yet, but I really needed him for emotional support as well... I had $14 buying a second crib (this is AFTER selling some things, including Alec's bed.)  Plus, I had promised myself I would ask him to just be friends after I gave birth.

"Hey, Ethan.  Do you want to come over and chat?" I asked.

"Hey, Lark, sorry, I really can't. I've... got something else going on,"  Ethan replied.

"Oh, um, well, I'll try again later," I said.

For some reason, I wasn't buying his excuse.  Was he ignoring me?  Our conversation seemed awkward and forced, which was rarely the case for us.  I would have to worry about this later, as I had three kids to worry about!

I wasted no time trying to teach the twins skills.  I didn't know how much more difficult it would be with two, and I didn't want to risk them growing up without all three of their skills.

"Archie, can you say 'house?'"

It definitely took the twins a little longer to catch on than it did for genius Alec.

Alec was still passing the time by playing with Jelly Bean.  I thought maybe it would be a toddler phase, but doesn't seem to be so.

Archie and Abner received some dolls as well! I only hope that they will be as good as company for them as they were for Alec.

This is just a prime example of how bad the house was getting.  Broken faucet, water all over the floor, a filthy oven, a dirty cabinet, and this is just the kitchen! If only I could hire a maid... I just have no energy to deal with this right now!

You can see here that Alec and I are forced to share a bed.  If I have any more children right now, I won't have a place for them to sleep!  This confirms my desire to wait to continue with the challenge right now.  I don't notice anything suspicious.  How would anyone know how the process is going?

Day 15

This is what my life has become.  I wake up every morning, only to clean and cater to others' needs.  I have a new-found appreciate for all of the single parents out there... this would be so much easier if someone were here to help me.  I feel bad, but every day I become more and more stressed and cranky.

Once again, I was seeking some emotional solace in my closest friend...

I called to invite Ethan over, praying he would accept!

"Ethan! Hi, I'm so glad I was able to get a hold of you!" I exclaimed, with as much excitement as I could muster.

"Lark, hey!" he replied, seeming almost disappointed.

"Well, I, uh, thought maybe you could come over here and chat with me, maybe meet your sons."

"Um, okay, let's get it over with," he said.

"What?! What do you mean..." before I could finish my question, I heard the click that meant Ethan had hung up.

What had changed between us so quickly?  Did the fact that he was now a vampire contribute to any of this? I felt some relief that at least he had accepted my invitation to come chat.

"Hi, Ethan..." I said, quite hesitantly.

"Hey, Lark!"  He at least seemed somewhat happy to see me, or else he was doing a great job at faking it.

"I have something to tell you... well, confess really..." I said.  I wasn't planning on telling him the entire story, but now that he was here, I wanted to be completely truthful with him.  He could be a great confidante for me when I seem to have no one else.

"Wait, Lark, can we go inside? The sun..."

"Oh! Oh my gosh, yes! I'm sorry, I forgot." It was then that I could see black smoke coming from Ethan's skin.

Once we got inside, there was no more avoiding what needed to be said.

"Ethan, I'm not happy to say this, but we can only be friends. I have to do this stupid challenge," I began.

"Lark, I know..." he said.

"Wait, WHAT?!" I was in complete shock, "you know about the challenge?"

"Yeah. I know about Reg, I know about the 100 babies.  I'm actually ashamed I didn't tell you, but wanted to be able to help you out."

"How... how do you know?" I stammered, still completely in shock.

"Ha, it's a long story.  Remember when we met at the museum, but I was still a teen? Reg was there, watching you, making sure the challenge got off to a good start.  He came up to me afterward and explained everything.  He hired me.  He's saved up a little cash to help you along your journey.  I'm your official 'watchman.'  That's why I'm unemployed.  You're my job."

I was still in shock.  Ethan knew the whole time? "That's... actually great! You get to be my confidante now!"

"No, Lark, I can't.  I've already risked enough being seen with you so often. Whether or not you know it, you're being watched.  I do want you to know, though, my feelings for you are real..."

"I'm being... wait, Ethan!"  Before I knew it, he turned around and walked out the door.  I couldn't think about the feelings line just yet, but I was being watched?! I needed to investigate that in the morning.  I could only pray I'd get some sleep tonight.

Day 16

Very early the next morning I had an unexpected visitor.

Groggily, I said, "Hi, I'm La..."

"Lark Langdon, yes, I'm aware," the stranger interrupted.  I was not a fan of her attitude.  Her all-black outfit and makeup was also giving me the creeps.

"How did you know my name?"

"I'm your neighbor.  I hear that you've recently discovered me," she said.

"You can call me Black Widow.  Everyone else does," the woman sneered.

"Okay, but what do you mean I've discovered you?" I asked, confused.

"Well, your little pal Ethan outed me.  You could say that I'm working for the other side," she said, with a slight evil giggle.

"Wait, YOU'RE the one who's been watching me?! You're my neighbor?! Why did you have the nerve to show up here?" I said, fuming mad.

"Oh, sweetheart," she laughed, "you really think no one would be checking in on you to make sure you were actually completing the challenge? Wishful thinking on your part."

"I... I guess so," I muttered, more to myself than Black Widow.

"Well, it was wonderful to meet you, Ms. Langdon.  You'll be hearing from me, and I'll be watching you," Black widow replied with a smirk and a giggle before walking away, leaving me stunned.

I was speechless.  Here I was, not even able to pay our $75 worth of bills, and I needed to have another baby.  Check that, 97 more babies.

I needed to call Ethan tomorrow.  I needed Reg's help.

Day 17

Today is Alec's birthday!  I couldn't be more excited to have a teen in the family, bur can't believe how old my baby is getting.  He'll age up after school.

I was so grateful for this temporary relief from worry about "other issues."  This would be a great distraction.

Here's Alec on the bus riding to his last day of elementary school.  He'd have to head to high school tomorrow! How time flies... he'll always be Baby #1 to me!

I knew I had one major task for the day -- call Ethan.

"Ethan, it's me!" I said, hurriedly.

"Lark! You shouldn't be calling me," Ethan said.

"I... I have to.  Look, I'm really struggling here, Ethan.  I have, like, no money.  How am I supposed to do this?  Can you talk to Reg? I hate to ask for money, but if he wants me to do this..."

"Lark, calm down.  I know you're struggling.  He knows that you're struggling.  Like I told you, he had saved up a small amount of money for, well, emergencies in your challenge.  I can give you $50,000.  That will be enough for you to get a larger house and maybe last you for a bit."

"Oh, Ethan! That would be wonderful!"

"But Lark, you need to understand that he can't do this for you every 3 kids.  In fact, we can only help you in emergency situations."

"I know, I know.  I just need a head start!"

"I trust you.  Listen, you can't contact me anymore.  It's too risky.  We shouldn't even be talking on the phone.  I'll know when you need help. I'll be watching you, keeping you safe and on track."

And with that, Ethan Bunch was seemingly out of my life.  I now had $50,000 more in my bank account: a positive... but I had lost the closest thing I had to a confidante and friend: major negative.

He must have been nearby because when I went out to get the mail, the check was already there.  I had mixed feelings about this, but the day must go on.  It's Alec's day!

Alec has been such a big help for me.  I hoped that as a teen, that helpfulness would only increase.  Look at him, cleaning the toilet on his BIRTHDAY!  He may have the evil trait, but it was hard to find.

All of a sudden, it was time for him to age up! I felt bad that we had no time to prepare for a full out party, so we celebrated in the bathroom.

Say hello to Alec as a teen!  He rolled the mooch trait (in addition to his evil, genius, and virtuoso traits.)

He chose a longer, messier hairstyle (which he thought all of the ladies would love.) I may be biased, but I thought Alec was quite the looker.  Future heart breaker for sure! :)

Day 18

Alec woke up ready to embark on his firth day of high school.  He was a little more nervous than he'd like me to realize, but he could barely keep down his bland toast and jam!

He had confided in me that he wanted to join an after-school activity but would wait until the twins aged up so he could help me.  He wouldn't have to wait long -- the twins' birthday was today!

 "Good morning, baby! Ooooh, what is that smell?"

"Pooooopy,"  Archie responded.

Hmm... not a great start to a day where I have a ton to get done.  Neither of the boys can walk yet, plus I have to take care of their needs (and my own!)  Let's get started....

Here it was, already 4:30, and we are barely making progress.  I'm really worried that the twins won't grow up well at this point.

Thank GOODNESS Alec should be able to help soon (if he decides to - he's been going through quite a mood swing lately.)

See? I think Alec is a big softy at heart.  I love this picture of two of my boys.

The afternoon went by so quickly, and soon enough, Abner was aging up!  We unfortunately did not get the walking skill in time.

Don't forget about Archie! He's aging up, too.  We were literally (I'm not joking) maybe ONE STEP away from the walking skill when he aged up.  I feel a little bit like a failure.

Anyway, this is Abner as a child.  He was given the "perfectionist" trait in addition to his virtuoso and couch potato traits.  He wanted to pick an "edgy" haircut, so I think he looks pretty cool.

And this is Archie (in his pajamas.)  Unfortunately, he follows in Alec's footsteps and gains the evil trait.  Hmm... 2/3 of my children are evil?! I feel a little like a failure, but know this may be a fitting trait for a vampire.

Day 19

Today was a big day for my challenge.  All three boys would be at school.  I needed to find and woo my next challenge father today or there might be dire consequences.  Now that I knew Black Widow was watching my every move, I couldn't afford to make any mistakes.

Look at all three of my boys riding to school together.  I hope that Alec is able to look out for his little brothers.

That sentimental moment was short-lived...

"ALEC!" I couldn't help but scream out, despite him not being home.  Remind me to speak to him later... turquoise is not my best color.

After the "hair scare," I started my search for the next baby daddy at my neighbor's house.  I had seen the moving truck there the other day and was curious to find out who my new neighbor was.  I hope it's a.) a guy and b.) a cute one!

"Oh! Hi there," I stammered.  I didn't expect someone so... charming.  He surely exceeded my expectations.

"Hey, I'm Elijah Applebee," the man replied. (Thank you, Homeworker! Click the link to download Elijah.)

"I'm your neighbor, Lark Langdon.  I live in the house across the street," I said, with increasing excitement.  This guy was adorable!

We brought the conversation inside his house.  We talked about everything from our favorite foods and colors to what we liked to do in our free time.

I mean, look at his eyes and colorful hair! I'm smitten.

We immediately hit it off, and things begin to get flirty.  I can tell he's falling for my charm.

I'm definitely in a rush, so I won't bore you with the details, but...

The deed is done!

While I was having my rendezvous, Alec was going through a minor heartbreak.  He had a crush on this girl (Elisa Koehler), and had planned on asking her to his school's prom.  Unfortunately, she has just aged up.  He would have to find another date or ride solo.

The good news that came from this was that Elisa could now help Alec with his homework, which he often struggled to compete.  This wasn't because of lack of intelligence (he was a genius, after all), but more a lack of effort.

I didn't like seeing Alec eat without the rest of the family, though, but there wasn't enough room at our kitchen table for the entire family.  I think we need to upgrade to a larger house now that I'm pregnant again.

Day 20

I was woken up at 2am by an extreme bout of nausea.  Yup, we all know what this means.

Then, when the boys were getting ready for school, I interrupted poor Abner's shower time to puke yet again. Ugh.

"Sorry buddy!" I mustered while I was vomiting.

"Umm, yuck.  It's okay, I guess," he replied.

He seemed mostly grossed out by the whole ordeal.

I soon left the house.  Hogan's Deep-Fried Diner asked me to come and help them fix their plumbing.  Hey, I'd do anything for a little extra cash! Who knew that having to fix everything in this old house would help me out.

I ended up getting $350 for an easy job! Score!

As soon as I left the diner, my bump arrived!  Oh, I was so praying for a girl(s.)

This came as a relief to me.  Black Widow and Ethan couldn't say I wasn't trying now.  The fourth (or more) baby was on the way!

My elation was short-lived though... THIS is what Alec got a ride home in.  He was caught defacing the school's mascot.  Ah, my first tough parenting moment.

You could say that I was pretty angry...

"ALEC LANGDON, what did you do?"  I asked.

"Mom, I'm sorry, I was just trying to have some fun, get a good joke in before I graduate and everything.  Something for everyone to remember me by," he said, pleading with me.

"This is NO joke, buddy.  This is vandalism!  You're lucky you didn't get expelled!" I yelled.  "That's it, you're grounded until further notice!"

"But Mom! Prom is tomorrow. Will you at least let me go to that?" He said, giving me puppy dog eyes.

 

"No, no prom for you.  That will teach you," I said.

 

I walked away quickly before I changed my mind.  He needed to learn this lesson the hard way.

 

Day 21

 

I knew Alec was mad at me this morning.  I was, after all, being so "unfair."

But he was such a good boy today.  He cleaned the toilet and shower, took out the trash, and was even nice to his little brothers (he and Archie took a special liking to each other... those evil traits.)

I know he was trying to get on my good side to go to Prom, so I let him off the hook.  I couldn't bear the thought that my son would miss one of the best nights of his high school life.

Look at Alec all spiffy for his prom!  I'm so glad I allowed him to go.  This image brings tears to my eyes.

Despite having no date, I know he'll have a great night.

There he goes in a snazzy limo!

His night consisted of seeing someone in the same tux (embarrassment), impressing Georgia Truong with his chicken dance (they totally hit it off), and even becoming romantically involved with her!  He was even named Prom King! I was so elated that his night was so wonderful.

Memories from a great night.  Check out that "awesome" Prom pic ;)

Day 22

Well everyone, say goodbye to our humble abode.  We need to move out before I have this baby, especially if it's multiples.  I'm sad to see my first house go so quickly, but we must move out.  It will especially give me some peace of mind that Black Widow won't be our neighbor.

Say hello to our new house! Cute, right? It's larger, but not huge (we can't afford huge, even with Reg's help.)  After renovations, we're left with only $221.  Totally worth it, especially because my paintings are fetching more and more.

I was just settling in to enjoy the new home when the contractions began.

"OUCHHHHH!" I screamed.  I knew this was no time to go to the hospital though.  I hung in there and hoped the boys wouldn't hear my pain.

FINALLY! The first girl of the challenge.  Meet April Langdon (which completes the "A" names.)  April means "to open," and signifies the opening of flowers that symbolizes the beginning of Spring.  I thought this was a fitting name for the first girl in the challenge.

Take a look at April as a toddler.

I was disappointed at first that she didn't inherit her father's beautiful hair color, but she did get his fabulous eyes.  I was at least happy about that.

April received the brave and artistic traits.  Her favorite music is kids, favorite food is pancakes, and favorite color is sea foam.  She's an Aquarius.

Now that I brought a 4th baby into this world, I have 96 to go.  Quite a challenge ahead of me, no?  Won't you join me to see how things go? :)

Author's Note:  So sorry for such a long chapter.  Things got crazy at the Langdon household for awhile, and I couldn't get Lark any free time to make babies! Also, I know I said no cheats, but I was suffering and thought it would fit into the story at this point.  I'll try desperately not to use them anymore.  Thanks for reading!