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One week later…..

It was the night all of the elite of Windenburg had been waiting for- the annual grand gala at the Sholboi Opera House. The gala was attended by the uber rich of the city and was a great fundraiser for various charities. The line up at this year’s gala was headlined by worldwide opera singing sensation Miss Penny Wind and tickets were selling for over 5k Simoleons per head.

Getting ready to attend her first gala was Brystle Simmington. But instead of excitement at the forthcoming event Brystle had other thoughts preoccupying her mind. In fact she had been troubled by the words of her former lover Mayhew Drysdale on their final meeting the previous week.

Brystle had told Mayhew there would never be any future between them and that her life was with Burke now. Mayhew, deeply unhappy in his own marriage, had left Windenburg and took a job overseas with WindenburgSimmington. But he warned Brystle that Burke must know of their affair and whilst the job overseas in Shang Simla was a great opportunity  it was obvious that Burke was sending him there to keep him away from Brystle.

Brystle at first refused to believe that her husband could be so devious. But events since had made her question how much she really knew her husband and what he could be capable of.

As she finished applying the final touches to her make-up Burke walked into her their room and smiled at his wife. Brystle looked back at him through the reflection in the dresser mirror.

Brystle paused and glared at her husband in astonishment.

Brystle continued applying her make up as she revealed just what had been on her mind.

So there it was. Burke had known about Brystle’s affair with Mayhew. Immediately Brystle regretted not saying something to Burke sooner.

‘…will always love Mayhew…’ Burke was paraphrasing the very telephone conversation Brystle had had with Mayhew the night before her wedding. The same conversation that Fathom had listened in on and had been tormenting Brystle with her veiled threats to reveal all to her father.

Burke’s temper began to rise and his voice with it.

Tempers were beginning to flare between the couple.

Brystle got up from her chair and made to push past her husband but Burke stood in her way.

The mention of Mayhew’s name once more sent Burke over the edge.

Brystle couldn’t believe what her husband was saying and she no longer held back her outrage at what he was saying.

As Burke and Brystle bickered and arued in their bedroom, outside in the corridor Tammy Flo was listening in.

Back in the room Burke took a deep breath and sighed. He didn’t like to see his wife so upset. He made a move to call a truce.

Back outside Tammy Flo was relishing in overhearing the heated exchange.

Unaware that Fathom was behind her Tammy Flo giggled as she listened in on her aunt and uncle.

Fathom could hear her father rowing with Brystle too. Now normally she would be the first to listen in but seeing Tammy Flo already there irked Fathom.

Fathom marched up to Tammy Flo and made her presence known.

A change came over Tammy Flo and her face was set in anger. It was clear that Fathom had rumbled her. There was no need to pretend anymore with her.

Back in the master suite things were no better between Burke and Brystle.

Outside Tammy Flo had taken a step closer to Fathom as she got ready to wallop her.

It was becoming too much for Brystle. She felt trapped and breathless and needed to get away.

As she flung open the doors Brystle almost collided with Fathom and Tammy Flo right outside her room.

Just then a flustered Burke burst out of his room not realising Fathom and Tammy Flo were there.

Burke led the way to the top of the stairs and revealed some news.

Fathom had been suspecting that her brother had eloped with Fred. She was very close to her brother and could always sense what he was doing.                                        As they descended the stairs Brystle was glad to hear that Heathen was returning as she felt he was the first person to warmly welcome her to the mansion and she fely very protective of him.

Joseph dutifully handed everyone an umbrella as they all stepped outside. He looked Brystle up and down and decided he didn’t quite care for her dress.                  Outside, Burke approached his chauffeur Michael. It had been over a week since he’d had him beaten up for having a relationship with Fathom.

Fathom looked away. She hated her father for what he had done to Michael and it also annoyed her that Michael had not stood up to Burke.

Brystle saw how Fathom had turned away. She herself had her doubts about the bruises on Michael’s face.

Burke smiled and patted Michael on the shoulder. It was at this point the truth dawned on Brystle.

---

 

Texas had just finished getting ready for her night at the opera. As she sprayed on her perfume her bedroom door opened and in walked Cyril who had been waiting for her in the living room. Cyril eyed Texas up and down in the designer red dress he had bought for her and licked his lips.

Cyril gently stroked her face.

The mention of Burke’s name made Cyril think on whether Texas still had feelings for her ex-husband.

Texas laughed at he mere suggestion of this.

This pleased Cyril greatly.

Texas smiled seductively at her lover. Cyril smiled back for he did have many memories of all their illicit rendezvous in this studio. All the times he would sneak in for woohoo sessions with Texas whilst Burke was away on business…

Cyril opened the patio doors and stepped outside where he plucked a rose from a nearby bush before returning back inside.

Cyril’s spontaneous proposal took Texas by surprise. This was not part of her masterplan however tempting it sounded.

Texas could see that a refusal would wound Cyril and possibly turn him away from her. She could not risk losing him at this stage. Besides, he was an amazing lover and fabulously wealthy so what was not to like?

Clothes were frantically peeled off as they both climbed between the sheets and began to make frantic woohoo together.

It looked like their entrance at the opera would be somewhat delayed….

---

In the week since both Mother Drysdale and Mayhew had left the household both Malaudia and her daughter Mimsy had gotten closer. It had been a rocky start between daughter and mother as the young child’s mind had been turned against her mother by her spiteful grandmother. But with Mother Drysdale out of the house on a round the world cruise Malaudia was able to get close to her daughter without any interference. Without the negative influence Mimsy was able to quickly bond with her mother again.

Malaudia was also coping rather well with Mayhew gone too. He was  technically overseas working for WindenburgSimmington but for Malaudia she felt that she had separated from her husband altogether. It was obvious he was in love with Brystle Simmington and only with Malaudia because he felt duty bound to protect her. Well Malaudia was feeling much stronger within herself and did not need protecting. If her husband didn’t love her for who she was then perhaps it was time to go their own ways. Malaudia loved her husband deeply but she could not stay with a man who loved someone else.

But all that was for another time to worry about. Mayhew wouldn’t be home for several months. Perhaps that time apart would give them both something to think about. In the meantime, Malaudia was at the front door seeing off her daughter who was off for a sleepover at her friend from school.

Malaudia watched as her daughter got into the waiting car where Lindsay sat with her mother. She waved them all off and waited until the car was out if sight.

There was a rumble of thunder in the distance and a strong breeze blew by. It felt as if there was a storm starting. Malaudia shivered and went inside. The house felt deathly quiet. It was the first evening she had ever spent alone in the house since coming home from the hospital and Malaudia was a bit apprehensive about it. But if she were to be living life as a single woman going forward she would need to start getting used to it. She made to go to the kitchen to get a hot cup of cocoa when her phone started to ring.

Malaudia kept a phone on her at all times now. Dr Broscanni had specifically instructed Mayhew that there were to be no phones in the house upon Malaudia’s return from the hospital. It was part of the reason whey Malaudia had a breakdown in the first place as she believed a demon had been calling her on the phone instructing her to do wicked things. Before he left for Shang Simla Mayhew had given his wife a phone in case of emergencies. He was unaware that Malaudia herself already had had a phone when she had gotten out of the hospital. And they were both unaware that it had been Mayhew’s spiteful mother, Mother Drysdale, who had been making the secret phone calls to Malaudia which had driven her insane the first time. Those phone calls had started to happen again sporadically over the first few weeks since her release from the hospital but had since stopped. But tonight they would return with a vengeance as Mother Drysdale, who allegedly was on a cruise, would launch a full scale attack upon her unsuspecting daughter-in-law in the hope to push her over the edge….and straight back to the simitarium.

Malaudia took the phone from her pocket and answered it.

There was no reply. Just the sound of someone hanging up.

Malaudia tried to think nothing of it. It was simply a wrong number, nothing more. So what if the caller hid their number? It didn’t mean anything at all. It was all purely innocent she told herself. But as she went to the kitchen to make that cup of cocoa she was already starting to get the jitters.

---

Across town the gala opera was beginning and the richest Sims in town were arriving for the fundraising performance. Sitting at a bar on the upper level was Burke with his lawyer Andre Wayward. Brystle was out of earshot so Burke was taking the opportunity to discuss his plans for Fred’s mother, Devonique Domino, secret arrival at the opera.

Satisfied that his unveiling of Devonique to expose Fred for the hustler that he was, Burke moved the conversation along.

Andre knew all too well what Burke could be capable of and thought better of saying anymore. Just then he caught sight of Brystle approaching.

Burke chuckled at the mention of the charity. It may be Brystle’s chosen charity that she was patron of but Burke didn’t fully support it as a self made billionaire.

Brystle was aghast at what Burke said. She could see that Andre himself was uncomfortable with what he’d just said and as Burke chuckled some more and patted his lawyer on the shoulder Brystle was finding it more and more difficult to relate to her husband.

Meanwhile in the lobby Fathom was busy posing for the paparazzi while Tammy Flo looked on.

Tammy Flo watched on with growing disgust as Fathom flaunted herself in front of the flashing cameras. Fathom lapped up the attention.

Fathom finished posing for the cameras and made to go up the grand staircase but Tammy Flo stood in her way.

---

As the evening moved on a storm was moving in. The rain was falling quite heavy now and the wind was picking up. Malaudia was home alone. The second phonecall of the evening had just begun. Nervously she answered it.

No! It couldn’t be!! Malaudia quickly ended the call. It was the same voice she’d heard before on the phone. It was the demon who liked to terrorize her. He was back!!

No, it wasn’t real Malaudia told herself. Remember everything Dr. Broscanni taught you. Pasimzu was not real. There were no demons.

However if Pasimzu was just a figment of her imagination then who had been on the phone?

---

Burke was getting tetchy. The performances would be starting soon and there was no sign of Heathen and Fred. Nor Devonique. Why couldn’t people be on time? Brystle was standing in the lobby of the opera house with her husband and notice how he was pacing back and forth looking at his watch whilst Andre seemedto be keeoing an eye on the front door and who was arriving.

Andre took a phonecall and quickly hung up before marching over to tell Burke his news.

In his haste to tell Burke Andre had forgotten that Brystle was not in the know of Burke’s plans to reveal Devonique as Fred’s mother. Burke was quick to step in with a lie to cover up his lawyer’s mistake.

Burke gave Andre the look to show that he was not pleased. He only hoped it would not end up paying for his mistake later.

Meanwhile from an upper level bar, Heathen and Fred looked down upon the Simmington’s in the lobby.

Fred was nervous, that was not a lie. But his nerves was not stemming only from the jitters about telling Burke that he was his son-in-law but rather from the fact that he had a gut feeling that Burke and Andre were on to him. This was coupled with the fact that Fred had received instructions from Cyril Dolby that he had to murder Heathen in order to break Burke and thus enable Cyril to completely destroy him.

Fred wanted to take Heathen away from this corrupt ritzy glitzy lifestyle. He reluctantly agreed to sty for a while. But then he intended to take Heathen away and never return…

The newly weds went downstairs where Fathom and Tammy Flo had joined Burke and Brystle.

The news stunned everyone not least Burke. Brystle urged her husband to say something.

Fathom hugged and congratulated her brother. Burke was not feeling the good news.

What he had said was true, Fred really did love Heathen. The money did not matter. Everyone seemed touched by Fred’s words. All except Burke. He was about to launch into one of his infamous tirades when Andre stepped in to diffuse the situation.

Burke knew his lawyer was right. To verbally accuse Fred of being a hustler without any proof would mean alienating, and potentially losing, his son forever. Burke thought better of it. Fred’s mother would be here shortly. He would then reveal all.

Burke glared at Fred. It was a look that said that he knew who Fred really was. And Fred knew his time was up. Burke was playing with him. He had to make a run for it tonight.

Burke forced a smile and patted his new son-in-law on the arm before urging him upstairs and the rest of the Simmington clan followed.

---

Malaudia was spending the evening watching some TV. It had been over an hour since the last phonecall and she was beginning to forget all about it. That was until her phone started ringing again…

She looked at he mobile phone that lay on the cushion beside her on the sofa. The display showed that it was another unknown caller. Should she answer it or ignore it? Malaudia decided she couldn’t and reached for the handset. She pressed answer and moved the device closer to her face.

The caller did not speak. She only hear the sound of their heavy breathing before they hung up on her. Damn it, she thought. Who was this and why were they doing it to her? Malaudia didn’t know but immediately her panic was flaring up. A sudden clap of thunder and a flash of lightning made her jump out of her seat.

Quickly she got up and made her way over to the window.

Right now she had never felt so alone, or so vulnerable, as she did right now. Even compared to being in the hospital. It felt as if someone was after her and they were closing in. Malaudia tilted the blinds and looked out into the tempestuous night.

Someone out there was making her life a misery. Someone, or something, by the name of Pasimzu….

---

A the bar, Heathen and Fathom were relaxing and joking with one another like old times while Fred nervously watched on. All the while he kept glancing over at Burke who stood nearby eyeing him intently. He knew he had been caught out by Burke but what was he playing at? Why didn’t he just come out with it? Fred wished he would in a way and at least it would be out in the open. He would confess all about how Cyril Dolby hired him for an insidious plot to gain access to the WindenburgSimmington empire and destroy it from within. He would hope all would be forgiven and that the real villain, Cyril Dolby , would be the one Burke inflicted his severe revenge upon. But judging the way Burke and Andre were watching Fred made her think otherwise.  The best thing her could do was run…and soon.

Brystle sat down with her husband. She did not like the way he was behaving to Fred.

Before the conversation could continue a familiar voice rang out and killed their conversation…

Burke sighed at the sight of his ex-wife. For someone who claimed to be of limited financial means it was a surprise to see her at this gala.

It became apparently clear to Burke what was happening. His ex-wife had reconnected with her former lover and his greatest enemy Cyril Dolby. The thought of the two of them together again sickened Burke to his stomach.

Brystle quickly had had enough. Whenever Texas appeared there was always trouble.

Brystle smiled as she realised Texas knew nothing of her son’s marriage.

Texas quickly turned and marched over to Heathen.

Mother and son hugged it out before Texas welcomed Fred as her new son-in-law. Then full of happiness she took Heathen by the hand and led him over to Burke’s table.

Texas smiled at Burke and Brystle for she wanted them to know what while she was last to know about her son’s wedding she was delightfully happy for him and his husband. She would welcome Fred into the family and accept him immediately as her son-in-law and she knew this was something Burke would not. She had gained more of Heathen’s trust and , more importantly, his support.

Texas led him back to the bar where Fred was waiting. She then beckoned for Cyril to join them.

Cyril glanced over at Fathom, his former lover. It felt awkward being with Texas in the same room as Fathom but it was something he had to get used to. Fathom giggled when she saw her former lover glance her way.

Cyril ignored Fathom and a look of disappointment came over her face. It did not go unnoticed by Burke. He got up and ushered Brystle and his daughter to go into their private balcony for the evening’s performance.

At the bar Texas introduced Cyril to Fred. Unbeknown to her that Fred was actually hired by Cyril to con his way into Heathen’s life.

Cyril played along with his ruse.

With Texas and Heathen out of earshot Cyril joined Fred at the bar. He seemed to delight in the obvious discomfort of the young man but he persisted still.

Fred made to get up and leave but Cyril grabbed him by the arm forcing him back onto the barstool. He was getting tired of Fred’s insubordination. It was time to make him listen.

Fred gulped as anxiety took hold of him. He was now in a precarious position. On the one hand he had Cyril Dolby threatening his life if he did not do his bidding and actually murder Heathen. On the other hand he had Burke Simmington who obviously knew Fred was a hustler but seemed to be toying with him and biding his time before he revealed the truth. And in the middle was Heathen, the man who Fred had grown to love more than anything in the world. Heathen didn’t deserve any of this. Perhaps it would be best if Fred left right now. Run out the door and never look back….

---

With the storm raging outside Malaudia stood by the window with most of the lights out in the house and her phone in her hand. It would only be a matter of time before it rang again she thought and she was right. The phone vibrated in her hand as her mystery caller returned.

Malaudia answered and with shaking hands raised the device to her ear. Her voice was trembling as she spoke.

Malaudia dropped the phone upon hearing what the caller had to say.

Quickly she retrieved the phone and ran over to the sofa. It was time to call the police and put an end to this.

After a moment or two Malaudia got put through to someone.

The thought of trying to engage in conversation with her mystery tormentor was almost too much. But it would be the only way to prove that someone was actually calling her and it was not something she was imagining. Reluctantly she gave in.

Morelli was met with silence save for the gentle sobs of Malaudia. He tried his best to reassure her.

After Malaudia thanked him and hung up Morelli got up from his desk and moved over to his crime scene board. A series of prank calls had been plaguing the city in recent weeks.

---

Legendary opera singer Gabriella Montaballe had opened the gala by taking to the stage first. Rumour had it the opera diva was none to happy not receiving top billing. That honour went to the recently discovered, and much younger and prettier, Penny Wind whose vocals had been featured on the box office smash hit musical movie ‘The Greatest SimPerson’.

The truth was that Ms Montaballe’ s vocals were not as they once were. And this was notable to everyone in the auditorium except the grand lady herself. She took to the stage and began her warbling in traditional Simlish.

Sitting in a private booth in the upper circle of the theatre was Texas, Cyril, Heathen and a very quiet Fred. Texas was oblivious to Fred’s unease but was horrifed by Gabriella’s singing.

Across the way Burke was in his own balcony with Brystle, Fathom and Tammy Flo. He himself was not impressed but was less scathing than Texas.

The fat lady had sung but the opera was far from over…

Later at the interval Brystle was in the powder room when in walked Texas. Brystle looked in to the mirror and tried her best to ignore the woman who was fast becoming her number one enemy. Texas, on the other hand, had been waiting for a moment alone with her. She decided to break the ice with some conversation about the forthcoming performance of Penny Wind.

Brystle rolled her eyes. She could not bear to listen to Texas any longer.

And there it was. The awful truth and Brystle’s secret shame. She had indeed been in prison prior to moving to Windenburg. She had tried her best to leave her past behind her. But deep down she always feared that it would come out. And now the secret knowledge was in the hands of the woman who hated her…

Texas revelled in knowing the truth of Brystle’s past and what this would do to Burke.

Texas gave a final triumphant smile before leaving the powder room. Once she was alone Brystle broke down in tears.

After splashing some water on her face and retouching her make up Brystle stepped out of the powder room and went to re-join Burke. She just wanted this night to be over. She woul;d have to tell Burke the truth about her past and hope for the best. But it wasn’t the night for it.

Both Brystle and Texas had been unaware that they were not alone in the powder room for Tammy Flo was also there. She had been in on of the toilet cubicles and had overheard the whole showdown.

Meanwhile at one of the may bars in the opera house Fathom seized her chance to speak with Cyril whilst he was alone. Texas was busy circulating around the well to do of Windenburg and getting reacquainted with some old faces.

Cyril was tired of explaining to Fathom that their days of woohoo were over.

The horrible reality of the situation dawned on Fathom. Her shock turned to revulsion and then to anger. How could Cyril do this to her?

Cyril watched as Fathom stormed off and thought of her as a petulant child. However she was volatile and could be dangerous. She was as wily as her mother and would bide her time choosing the most inappropriate moment before spilling the beans on her relationship with him. She was right Cyril mused. Texas would be horrified knowing that he had woohooed her daughter and many times at that. The question though was what would he do about it…..?

---

Detective Morelli was determined to identify the prank caller who had been tormenting poor Malaudia. After re-reading his case notes on the multiple prank calls made throughout the city he felt a renewed energy in cracking the case and as he made his way to the control centre he felt that tonight would be the night.

Morelli had not been seated at the tracking monitor for too long when a message came on the monitor showing that a call of unknow origin was being made to Malaudia. This could be it he thought. He just hoped Malaudia remembered to keep the creep talking long enough for him to trace the call.

With trembling hand Malaudia picked up her phone and pressed the receive call option. This was taking every bit of strength that she had and she hoped Morelli would be listening in.

Even Morelli was shocked by what he was hearing.

Malaudia closed her eyes. She wasn’t sure how much longer she could take this…

---

Whilst Burke and his family had taken their seats for the night’s top billing performance, Andre Wayward had just received a call from Shang Simla that would spell disaster for Burke’s company…

Andre listened on as his Simlanese counterpart revealed more.

Mayhew Drysdale had been arrested and charged with spying in Shang Simla!! This was absurd. Mayhew was not a spy! But there was worse still to come…

The call was abruptly over. It was made clear to Andre that the Simlanese government would no longer do business with WindenburgSimmington and that the billion Simoleon contract that they had set up was now null and void. The financial implications for WindenburgSimmington could be catastrophic…

Upstairs in their private balcony Texas was being scathing about Tammy Flo to Heathen.

Heathen didn’t share his mother’s viewpoint.

Before Texas could reply the house lights went down and a round of applause rang through the opera house as the star attraction, Miss Penny Wind, took to the stage.

There wasn’t a sound as everyone waited for her to sing. And she delighted them all by singing her worldwide smash hit single taken from the soundtrack to the movie ‘The Greatest SimPerson.’

Her angelic voice and the touching lyrics were already having an emotional effect on Fred.

Penny brought the house down with her performance. She received the honour of a full standing ovation as bouquets of flowers were thrown to the stage much to the outrage of Gabriella Montaballe. Penny was deeply moved by the rapturous reception.

Still the applause continued along with cries of ‘More,More, More’ (not to be confused with the disco hit by Moreba Mela). Penny closed her eyes as she thanked her lucky stars.

The last word, however, belonged to Texas.

---

Malaudia listened on as her mysterious caller continued their horrendous verbal assault on her. It fianlly became to much for her and she yelled down the line at them.

Detective Morelli was still listening in on the call as he frantically traced the number before the caller cut off. Suddenly the data he was confronted with started to not make any sense.

The whereabouts of the mystery caller had been revealed. Morelli was sick to his stomach.

Malaudia cut the call off as she could no longer take listening to her mystery caller. Some of the things being said to her were awful. Almost immediately her phone rang again but this time the number was not withheld. She anwered it with the last bit of strength she could muster.

Morelli’s frantic words chilled Malaudia to the bone.

The phone slipped from her hand and fell to the floor. Malaudia slowly stood up from her chair and looked around her. Where was the mystery caller hiding? She heard a creak and looked up to the ceiling.

The attic….

The calls had to be coming from there.

Malaudia was terrified but she needed to know the truth. She needed to face the person to know they were real and not just something in her head. And reluctantly she walked down the corridor ignoring Morelli’s instruction to leave the house…

Morelli got no response only silence. Something was terribly wrong…

Morelli threw his headset down and leapt up from his chair. He raced out of the precinct.

Almost knocking over a few of his colleagues as he made his exit Morelli had only one thing on his mind as he made for his car.

But would he get there in time……?

---

The show was over and everyone was spilling out into the foyer. Burke was on edge. He wanted to expose Fred tonight for the fraud that he was and he needed the help of Fred’s mother, Devonique Domino. But so far she had failed to appear.

Meanwhile Fred caught sight of Burke approaching him. He knew his time was up. He could also see Cyril circling as well. Fred grabbed Heathen and told him his plans.

This news shocked Heathen and he couldn’t understand it all.

With is family around him Heathen reluctantly decided to tell them all his new plans.

From across the foyer the unfolding drama was being watched by someone intently. Even from her distance she could make out that something was wrong. And there seemed to be a lot of drama surrounding one young man who was very dear to her heart. It was time to make her presence known. She began to strut her way over to join the Simmington’s.

---

Malaudia stood at the foot of the stairs leading to the attic. It was in there that she would come face to face with her tormentor. So despite the terror she was feeling she also felt compelled to climb the stairs and face her fears. Malaudia put one step on the stairs and began to climb.

It was cold and dark in the attic. The only noise came from the howling wind outside and the rain lashing against the small windowpane. Malaudia frantically looked around and then called out.

Her skin froze as a croaky voice whispered out to her.

Malaudia looked around. There. In the corner. Someone was hiding there….

Her tormentor leapt out of the shadows.

The demon creature ran at her and she stumbled backwards and fell hitting her head sharply as she did so. A trickle of blood started to seep out from under her head as she lay motionless…

From a distance came the sound of sirens as the police cars raced to her house. But were they too late….?

---

The Simmington’s listened as Heathen explained his intention to leave with Fred.

Burke had had enough and could stand it no longer. He had to speak out.

Burke’s anger was getting out of control but he could not help himself. All heads were turning as his voice bellowed out. Fathom was aware of nearby paparazzi who were getting their cameras ready.

Everyone turned to see the elegant, mysterious lady who had joined them. Texas glared at her as she looked her up and down. Who the hell was she?

Fred recognised her right away.

Burke gave a sigh of relief and approached the woman he had been expecting all evening. It was Devonique Domino, Fred’s mother.

Heathen fell back onto the sofa in shock at what we was witnessing. Fred’s temperament immediately changed as his own anger began to rise at the sight of his mother.

Brystle moved by Fred’s side to show solidarity with the young man.

However Brystle’s choice of words caused Burke to erupt in further anger.

Fred looked at Cyril who was staring at him intently. It was a look that said ‘Don’t mess with me or you are a dead man’. He knew he was trapped. He looked at his husband who appeared to be lost in a state of shock. There was no going back for them now. He’s lost everything.

A tearful Fred pushed past them and ran off into the crowds of the opera house.

Texas was livid with her ex-husband at what she had just witnessed. And she wasn’t for holding back.

Brystle realised there and then that her secret was about to be revealed after all.

The news shocked Burke and for once he was lost for words. He quietly spoke to her as everyone listened on.

Just then Tammy Flo leapt to her aunt’s defence and took on Texas.

Tammy Flo’s revelation left everyone stunned not least of all the Simmington siblings.

Texas was stunned by what she was hearing and as camera’s flashed she grabbed a drink off a table.

None of the group could believe the drama that was unfolding. No-one knew what to say. Texas straightened herself up and as Tammy Flo wiped herself with a napkin Texas came clean herself.

The secret of the missing Simmington son was revealed not only to Fathom and Heathen but to the gathered paparazzi who were busy getting the scoop of the decade.

Knowing that Texas had addressed the first of Tammy Flo’s revelations he knew what was to come next. Devonique was aghast at what she was witnessing.

The secret was out and Texas felt as if a huge burden she had carried for all of Heathen’s life had been lifted. Burke slowly shook his head as tears filled his eyes. Brystle looked from her distraught husband to her broken step-son whose world had come crashing down.

Heathen ran off in search of his missing husband while a furious Fathom blamed her parents for the debacle.

Brystle had seen enough. She stepped forward and grabbed hold of Texas.

Brystle raised her hand and unleashed an almighty slap across the face of her nemesis.

Texas leapt back at her opponent and the two women began to brawl. Tables and chairs went flying as they slapped and kicked one another.

Burke tried to call a stop to the spectacle.

With Texas stuck in  headlock Brystle realised she had the upper hand. She issued the woman who’d made her life a misery with a final warning.

Burke marched over and yelled at his wife for making such a scene.

Brystle felt totally betrayed by her husband and she too ran off. Burke called after her but the arrival of a frantic Andre distracted him.

Cyril chuckled at the news. It was nothing he didn’t already know. Fred had given him the contracts from WindenburgSimmington relating to the South Shang Simla Seas. Once he had come up with the plan to frame Mayhew for being a spy it was all too easy to approach the Simlenese government to offer them a better deal with his own company DolbyDoh.

He had waited a long time to see his opponent broken like this and couldn’t let the opportunity go by without making it worse for him.

A dejected Burke staggered back onto his seat. His wife, his son, his daughter had all deserted him. He was alone and facing possible financial ruin.

He looked up not knowing what to do. And then he caught sight of Fred on a nearby staircase. Burke saw red and he ran towards the young man. He confronted him on the staircase that led to the foyer of the opera house.

Fred pushed Burke away from him. From a distance Texas could see the altercation between the 2 men. 

Hired! Fred was hired to do all of this. He wasn’t just a hustler chancing his luck. Someone had purposely hired him to do this. His deceit was all the more wicked for making Heathen fall in love with him. Burke would not stand for it. He moved closer to Fred shoving him further back to the marble stair edge. 

Burke grabbed Fred by the lapels to shake him but Fred pushed him back. But in doing so he lost his balance…..and fell backwards down the cold marble stairs. He screamed as he fell onto the foyer floor and cracked his head open spilling blood all over the floor.

Heathen was in the foyer and rushed over to his husband who lay perfectly still in an ever increasing pool of his own blood. 

Screams rang out and someone yelled for an ambulance. Heathen knelt down by his husband to try and wake him…but there was no sign of life…..Slowly he stood up as a distraught Texas watched from above and Burke stood motionless at he top of the stairs.

Heathen screamed out in anguish at the loss of the man he loved. And then he caught sight of Burke at the top of the stairs. And through his grief he screamed at the top of his lungs…

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The morning after the dinner party and it was breakfast time at Siloli mansion. Fathom joined her father and Brystle in the breakfast room with a smirk on her face. After her confrontation with Brystle the previous evening ,where she revealed that she knew about the conversation between Brystle and Mayhew, Fathom had been feeling triumphant in that she had the upper hand. As she took a seat opposite her step mother and sipped on her coffee Fathom and Brystle continued to exchange glances to which Burke appeared oblivious. 

Conversation about where Heathen and Fred were soon moved on to how successful Burke believed the dinner party to have been. Fathom rolled her eyes upon hearing this. Dinner parties always bored her.

Fathom was waiting for this moment. It was obvious to her that Brystle was secretly upset of Mayhew’s secondment so she decided to play a little with her.

Brystle froze as she looked across the table at Fathom.

Fathom could hardly contain herself and continued with her teasing.

And with that she paused and took another sip of her coffee. Brystle, unsure if Burke was aware of what was going on or not, decided to challenge her step daughter to reveal what she wanted to say.

Fathom thought for a moment. Brystle didn’t seem to be worried and this was not the reaction she had hoped for. Perhaps it would be better to reveal her secret at another time.

The two women quietly stared at one another. Brystle did not want Fathom to have a hold over her and quite frankly there was nothing really to tell. So, rather than let it all be blown out of proportion, she made a move to tell Burke the truth about the phonecall and what Fathom was actually getting at. However, before she could, the door opened and major-domo Joseph Flanders walked in.

Before anyone could say anything else the doors burst open and in strutted a young lady in denim cut offs and cowboy boots. It was Tammy Flo Bean, Brystle’s niece.

Tammy Flo pulled up a chair next to Fathom and sat down, putting her feet up on the table. Fathom ignored that and instead  revelled in hearing the news that Brystle had lived on a trailer park .

Brystle got up from the table and led her niece out into the corridor, closing the door behind her.

Hearing this piece of news was upsetting to Brystle. She may have lost touch with her niece in recent years since her mother, Brystle’s sister, had died and her father had moved on taking the young Tammy Flo with him but that didn’t stop the remorse she was now feeling. Here she was living in the lap of luxury whilst her own kin had been abandoned on hard times.

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Deep in the countryside surrounding Windenburg lay the Von Haunt Country Estate and B&B, a luxurious old manor house steeped in history and set in acres of magnificent grounds. It was to this manor that Heathen and Fred had arrived at the previous evening when they had sneaked out of Siloli mansion and decided to elope. And it was in the grounds of the manor they had decided to hold their very own private ceremony. 

Heathen was already out on the lawn beneath the dressed wedding arch as Fred approached him quietly from behind.

Fred had woken that morning full of angst. He loved Heathen, he was sure of that now. It had started out as just another hustle, he had never intended to fall in love with his target. But here he was and he wasn’t sure if he was doing the right thing by marrying Heathen. But he couldn’t call it off. He didn’t want to risk losing the man he had come to love but yet he didn’t want to hurt him either.

As Heathen faced him Fred’s heart melted. He hated himself for lying all this time to him.

After a lingering smooch Fred gently held Heathen by his arm. 

Inwardly Fred was in turmoil. 

As Heathen gazed into his eyes Fred realised that he would never find anyone who loved him as much as Heathen did nor would he find anyone who he loved as much. However this had started out was irrelevant now. He couldn’t change the past but Fred was determined to ensure their future was bright.

And with that, Heathen and Fred were married and they sealed it with a kiss. 

Heathen gently took Fred’s hand and led him over to the nearby piano. Heathen took a seat and began playing. Fred loved hearing Heathen play and was struck by how beautiful the melody was.

Heathen continued tinkling the ivories, enthralling Fred with his masterpiece. He didn’t notice the phone vibrating in Fred’s trouser pocket or when his husband discreetly answered the call. Fred had tried to ignore the phonecall but when he saw whose name was displayed on the screen he knew he had to reluctantly take it.

Fred couldn’t believe that Cyril Dolby had called him the minute after he had married the man he loved. It was a reminder that his happiness was a falsehood. How could he ever find peace with Heathen with the threat of what this man could do hanging over him?

Fred sighed, he knew he had to see Cyril. There was really no choice. 

Cyril cut the phone. Fred discreetly slipped the mobile back into his pocket. Heathen was still playing the piano and was oblivious to what had just happened. He was an innocent party caught up in this wicked charade of Cyril Dolby’s and Fred couldn’t stand it. He had to do something to make it right…

Back at Falcon SimCrest, the Dolby mansion, Cyril knocked back his drink and felt a sense of happiness knowing that his plan was coming together.

A female voice from the lounger next to his pool brought his attention back to the here and now.

It was Ditsy Von Klinkerhoffen , arch nemesis of Fathom Simmington. For the past couple of weeks she had been staying at Falcon Simcrest indulging in a mammoth woohoo fest with the older billionaire. 

Cyril moved towards the lounger, eyeing up the long legs of the supermodel who had provided him with a few weeks of amusement.

As Cyril strutted away Ditsy screamed out after him.

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Texas was working on her latest painting whilst contemplating the visit she’d had with Cyril the previous evening. It had been delightful seeing her former beau after all these years and she was impressed at how well he’d looked after himself. She was certainly very much attracted to him and it appeared he was with her. His offer of joining forces to bring down Burke and his empire was certainly appealing however Texas was a strong independent woman and she certainly didn’t need the help of any man to achieve her goals. Her time in exile casted adrift from her children and her friends had been a hard lesson but had taught her to be self reliant. However Cyril had made a valid point in that it would take a lot of financial resource to destroy a man like Burke and this was resource Texas did not have. The truth was she was close to being flat broke. Burke’s payoff had long since been spent over the years in part by keeping Texas in a lifestyle to which she was accustomed to. But also on a series of private investigators that Texas hired to look into an unresolved tragic event from her past. Something that had happened early in her marriage to Burke that had fundamentally changed their relationship. In any event the mystery still remained as the many investigators hired by Texas had never returned any conclusive proof or resolution.

As she pondered on this there was a knock on her door and she called for whoever it was to come in.

Joseph walked over to view the painting Texas had just completed. He never cared much for her work. In fact he thought it was awful. 

The smirk dropped from Texas’s face momentarily. She did not like where this conversation was headed.

Texas ignored his question and instead sat at her table. Joseph had obviously discovered the 2 tacky woohoo movies she had made in her early days exiled from Burke. 

Texas considered this and quickly formulated a plan of her own. 

Joseph hadn’t expected this. Something he thought was a secret that no-one else knew…

The mention of Firby, his daughter, got Joseph into a panic. He knew Texas would gladly revel in telling Firby the truth about really happened to her mother. Joseph had to protect her from this at all costs and was the reason he’d sent his daughter away. 

Texas could see that all the bravado had gone from the major-domo. She had won this round with him. 

As Joseph left, Texas knew she had to get his copies of those movies and destroy them. 

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Chauffeur Michael Constrain had a small apartment across town and he divided his time between there and his room in the staff quarters of Siloli mansion. He was due to pick up Burke later that afternoon from the office and take him home. As he had several hours to go before he started his shift he decided to catch up on some much needed work-out time. He popped in a cardio work-out DVD featuring actress and activist Jane Honda and within minutes he was feeling the burn as he pushed the limits.

Before he moved onto squats there came a knock at the door. Michael got up and had no sooner turned the doorknob when a large man pushed his way in. Michael took a step back in shock.

Michael had never seen this thug before but it was obvious he was one of Fathom’s admirers. She certainly had many being in the public eye. This guy was a loon, probably he’d concocted some fantasy in his head about her.  But he was much larger and more threatening than Michael and he therefore decided to reason with the guy as best he could to avoid any altercation. 

Michael was dumbstruck. This guy wasn’t some random lunatic off the street, he was a hired thug sent by Burke. Suddenly skinny dipping with Fathom last night at the Simmington mansion wasn’t such a good idea after all…

Quick as a flash the thug pounced on Michael. Michael tried his best to defend himself but the brute was twice his size with fists the size of dinner plates. He was no match for him…

Michael was soon knocked out flat on the floor as the thug stood over him.

Michael lay on the floor completely out of it. He had crossed a line with his boss’s daughter and Burke certainly had made his feelings clear on the matter. But would Michael take any heed of the warning? 

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There was an unspoken tension arising between Mayhew and Malaudia. The subject of Mayhew going overseas to work for WindenburgSimmington had been approached but Mayhew was certain that something else was playing on his wife’s mind. So with Mimsy out of the way at school he decided to approach the situation with Malaudia. 

Malaudia was furiously washing the dishes in the kitchen. She barely looked up as her husband sat at the island counter. She waited until he spoke first.

Malaudia slammed down the dishes in the sink and glared at her husband.

Mayhew realised that Malaudia knew, or strongly suspected the truth. His affair with Brystle many months ago was coming out now. Mayhew wasn’t going to deny it. After all he was still planning on leaving Malaudia as soon as he had earned enough money overseas so that she could live comfortably following the divorce.

Malaudia yanked out a bar stool and sat forcefully down on it. There was a moment of uncomfortable silence before she demanded answers. 

Of course he did. He was head over heels in love with Brystle. But he  still loved his wife. Just no longer in the way a husband should love his wife. 

There was no turning back for Mayhew now. This was the moment his marriage was finally over. 

Gone was the bottled up anger Malaudia had been holding in as she fully exploded in a rage. 

Mayhew had feared this would happen at some point. Malaudia was showing sings of a relapse into her erratic behaviour. It was clear she had been hearing the voices in her head again.

As if on cue in walked a smiling Mother Drysdale. In fact the crafty woman had been listening in on the row between her son and daughter-in-law and she was relishing in the mayhem. She was about to throw an almighty spanner in the works.

Even in her anger Malaudia could see that Mayhew would plead for his mother to stay but she wanted her gone.

Mayhew followed his mother into the hallway followed by Malaudia.

Malaudia was glad to see the back of the old crone. Even if she was unaware that that her mother -in-law was secretly the cause of all her mental anguish, Malaudia still felt that Mother Drysdale had never liked her.

Malaudia went into their bedroom and slammed the door behind her leaving Mayhew alone.

Meanwhile outside a vengeful Mother Drysdale was about to unleash her master plan to finally put Malaudia back into the simitarium. The truth was she was not going on a cruise or even on vacation. She was s imply going to hideout in a local B&B and wait. Wait until her son was overseas then she would move in for the kill…

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Andre Wayward was bursting to tell Burke his latest news. 

Just then Burke’s intercom buzzed. It was his secretary informing him of an arrival in reception.

Burke sat back in his chair and looked at his office door. It opened and a very battered looking Michael sheepishly walked in. 

Burke got up and walked around his desk. He firmly shook Michael’s hand. The 2 men locked eyes. Burke would never admit what he done to Michael. But whilst it remained unspoken both men knew what had occurred. 

Michael left the office and Burke retook his seat. Andre chuckled at his high profile client. 

Andre laughed some more. Burke was a wily fox there was no denying. Nor would he ever admit any of his wrongdoings. Andre was well aware of what Burke could be capable of having helped him cover up many things over the years. Burke smiled then it quickly faded as he seemed lost in thought. 

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Joseph’s morning visit to her studio in the grounds of Siloli mansion had been bothering Texas all day. The snooty major-domo had been digging up some dirt on her and would sooner or later find a way to expose her past. Texas was having none of it. No man would get the better of her again. She would sneak into the mansion , go into the staff quarters and into Joseph’s room and find the video tapes and whatever else he had on her. But first she had to make sure the coast was clear.

Texas had been monitoring the comings and goings of everyone in the house for the past few weeks. She knew Burke was gone from early each morning followed by Heathen. Fathom usually left around noon and that just left Brystle. Sweet, sweet Brystle. How Texas loathed everything about her nemesis. She was so sickly sweet, so subservient to Burke. How she enjoyed to torment her so with her put downs. 

Usually Brystle would leave around mid morning and come back late afternoon which meant now was the time to sneak into the house without being seen. So as stealthily as she could Texas crept in through a side door on the wing of the house devoted to staff quarters right next to the kitchens. She hurried down a corridor and went to a room she knew Joseph to have kept back when she was mistress of the house.

As she stepped in she knew by the décor and personal belongings that she was in the right location. She quickly went to work scanning the room.

As her beady eyes scanned the room Texas caught sight of a box under the bed. This had to be Joseph’s stash. She pulled the box out and sat on the bed and rummaged through it. 

A USB stick caught her eye. It was bound to be a digital file of some kind, no doubt further dirt Joseph had been accumulating online about her. Texas snatched the file and plugged it into the computer. However it soon became apparent the file wasn’t about Texas after all…

Texas had claimed her prize. Not only had she found the 2 video tapes of the woohoo movies she had made but even better she had found something even juicier on Brystle! A plan was quickly formulating in her mind. With a smirk on her face and a spring in her step Texas walked boldly out of the room and down the corridor. As she turned the corner she almost collided with a young girl in hoochie cut-offs and cowboy boots.

A niece? So Brystle had a niece. Well this was the day that just kept giving! 

Tammy Flo paused for a moment. She was getting the sense that she was being questioned and she didn’t like it. Where she came from you didn’t go asking questions like that. 

Texas smiled politely at the young girl in front of her. She had given her enough to go on….for now. 

Tammy Flo could only watch as the mysterious woman swanned out of the front door without revealing who she was or saying goodbye. Rich folks sure did behave in mighty strange ways…

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As the sun began to set that day Brystle was waiting in the city Central Park. It was here that she and Mayhew used to meet in the early days of their romance before she married Burke. It was also here that she saw him the day before she married Burke. On that day she had tried to draw a line under their relationship but after last night’s dinner party it was clear Mayhew would not give up on her. And then there was Malaudia who knew about their affair. It would be a only a matter of time before it all came out in the open especially as Fathom knew about it too.

Brystle had to make things right. And the first thing was to let Mayhew know that there would be no happy ending for them. So she waited in the park knowing that Mayhew always had an evening jog through here. And sure enough, as she stood by the lake watching the swans Mayhew approached her.

Brystle turned to face Mayhew.

Brystle looked her former lover in the eyes and told him the truth.  

Brystle’s words wounded Mayhew for he had not expected this. He truly believed that Brystle would leave Burke for him. The truth was a bitter pill to swallow. 

Mayhew wasn’t willing to give up without a fight. 

Mayhew looked around. He had to look away for his eyes were filling with tears. Suddenly he caught sight of some roses growing nearby. He bent down and plucked one form the bush and presented this to Brystle, a last pang of hope in his heart. 

As much as she wanted to Brystle knew she could not accept the rose. 

This was the end for them and Mayhew reluctantly accepted that they would never be together. 

And with that Mayhew turned and walked away. No final hug, no last kiss.

Mayhew kept walking and did not look back for tears were streaming down his face.

Brystle too looked the other way for it broke her heart to watch him go. Instead she watched 2 swans as they gracefully swam across the still waters. The light was fading fast and she wanted to remember this image before it was gone forever…

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As the sun began to set and twilight began Texas arrived at Cyril Dolby’s. Her former flame had visited her the previous evening and offered to join forces in bringing Burke down. Texas had been unsure but when she’d uncovered the dossier on Brystle earlier today she realised she would need help with her plans. Money was the key factor and Texas had next to none of it whereas Cyril had hundreds of millions. 

They stood on the rear terrace of the house with views over looking the city. Cyril presented his former lover with a drink and they stood facing one another.

Texas smiled at the memory. She also looked around at the house and grounds noting how much it had changed over the years. 

Texas pondered on Cyril’s proposal. 

Cyril moved in for their first kiss in many years.

And then pulled Texas close to him as they both kissed ferociously.

They parted lips and Cyril enticed Texas inside.

Texas followed him inside and they made their way upstairs.

They went into the master bedroom and at first Texas thought he was leading her to his bed but he walked past it and over to a bookcase. He pulled a book down and revealed it to be not a bookcase but a secret door. It led into a smaller hidden room which had a security panel. Cyril entered the code and the automatic doors opened with a loud clank. Texas couldn’t believe her eyes at what she saw.

This what she had dreamed of so long. At last Texas had a means to take on Burke. 

They both fell back into the large pile of Simoleon bills and began a vigorous session of woohoo making. 

Cyril paused for air and gasping he gazed down at Texas.

Texas pulled Cyril back under the pile of money and a second round of woohoo gave way to a third….and a fourth…

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Fathom had seen the bruises in Michael’s face and whilst he had denied it, Fathom knew her father had to be behind it. She was confronting him in the hall about it later that evening.

This confirmed it 100%. Fathom was furious.

Burke had had enough of his daughter and her selfish, shameless ways. It was time she got her act together and started to act responsibly. 

This was the final straw for Fathom and she exploded in rage.

Fathom ran past her father and made for the front doors. Burke went after her calling her name.

Fathom didn’t stop as she rushed out into the night. She didn’t even stop when she almost knocked over her mother who was returning home from her rendezvous at Falcon SimCrest. Texas had been going past the main house on her way to her studio in the grounds when she heard the commotion going on and had stopped to listen.

Burke stopped at the door and yelled across the courtyard at his daughter. 

Fathom sped off in one of the available cars. Burke watched her go knowing too well she would be making her way to Michael’s apartment. He looked at Texas who stood on the steps mouth agape in shock at what she had just witnessed. Burke immediately turned and walked inside but Texas called after him. 

Texas marched in after her ex-husband and demanded some answers from him.

Texas looked at her ex-husband in disgust. The way he had treated Fathom made her remember all the times she was made to feel like that. Well it would continue no more for she was here to break the cycle.

The mention of their firstborn child stung Burke for he had not talked about him in years, the memory was too painful. In fact not even Fathom or Heathen were aware of their older brother’s existence. 

Burke sighed. This was going nowhere. The more he argued with Texas the more she yelled back. He couldn’t take anymore.

Quick as a flash Burke exploded in a volcanic rage at the mention of this.

Texas kept on pushing for she knew how to get under Burke’s skin.

Texas smirked in triumph for she knew she had won this round.

Texas gave a final smirk before leaving the house. Little were they aware that their whole conversation had been overheard on the first floor landing by a quiet as a mouse Tammy Flo…

Tammy Flo quickly went back to her room. When she was sure she was not going to be overheard she picked up the phone and made a secret call.

Tammy Flo said goodnight to her father and hung up. Her mind was in overdrive with all that had just happened….

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Late that night at the Von Haunt Estate B&B, Heathen was sleeping soundly in bed. His husband however was not.

Fred had waited until he heard Heathen snore before slipping out of bed and getting dressed. It was gone midnight but Fred had a meeting to go to.

He looked at his sleeping husband who looked so peaceful. How he hated to be deceiving him.

But he knew he must go to meet with Cyril Dolby. So ever so quietly Fred slipped out and made his way to the meeting point…

In the dead of night with no-one else around Fred waited patiently for Cyril to show. What was taking so long?

Fred didn’t hear Cyril approach and he almost jumped out of his skin when Cyril crept up to him and spoke.

Cyril laughed and clapped his hands upon hearing the news. This would help his devious plans along.

Cyril’s’ face twisted in hatred and anger as he exploded in a rage.

Cyril’s shouting was so loud that neither of them heard the snapping of the camera from a nearby bush pointing directly at them…

It was Ditsy Von Klinkerhoffen!! She had followed Cyril hoping to catch him in the act with Fathom. She’s hoped to get some juicy photos to leak to the press but this was proving to be something entirely different. Instead she switched on the microphone and began video recording the interaction…

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It had been over a week since Texas had shocked the Simmington household with her announcement that she still owned the title deed to a cottage within the grounds of the mansion and that she would be moving in. True to her word Texas moved in that very day. It had not been the best of starts to Brystle and Burke’s marriage having an ex-wife camped outside their home and Brystle was deeply troubled by it. So far they had not seen much of Texas since but just because she was out of sight did not mean she was out of mind, at least not for Brystle.

On this morning she found herself unable to sleep, troubled by the presence of Texas. What was she planning on doing? Brystle did not know but inwardly she was frightened of what Texas would do. Feeling restless, Brystle got out of bed. Burke was still sleeping soundly and she tried not to wake him. She walked quietly over to a bedroom window and gazed out across the grounds towards the cottage where Texas was now living.

Brystle remained there for sometime as she contemplated the meaning of Texas being here. All she could think was that Texas meant trouble and she could not shake the feeling. 

Not long later Burke awoke from his slumber. He walked over to the window and hugged his wife.

It pained Burke to see his wife so upset. He never wanted Brystle to be worried by anything and so he answered her in the only way he could.

Burke reached out and gently caressed his wife’s soft cheek.

Burke kissed his wife on the forehead and then went off to shower. Once alone in their bedroom Brystle turned and looked out of the window.

Brystle felt that Burke was being over simplistic about the whole thing. Removing Texas was going to be harder than he implied. The thoughts of a mega shopping spree was not enough to convince Brystle of the trouble yet to come.

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Texas had been settled in the cottage for the past week. Quite quickly she had turned the disused building around giving it a lick of paint and dusting down the furnishings that had been left in the building. She had also spoken with some of the house and grounds keeping staff of Siloli mansion to help her maintain the property but not to inform Burke of this. The staff,, fearing to be caught in the crossfire, had unwillingly obliged.

On this beautiful morning Texas had risen early, as she tended to do most mornings. She felt decidedly creative and commenced painting at her easel. Painting was always a favourite pastime of hers and she had a level 10 painting skill. This cottage, her studio as she called it, was the place where she had been at her most happiest during the lonely days of her marriage to Burke.

Whilst she was busy inside creating her latest masterpiece, outside she had a visitor arrive. It was her son Heathen.

Heathen had not spoken with his mother since she had gate-crashed the wedding over 4 weeks ago. She had disappeared again for 3 of those weeks but when she had shown back up at the mansion last week and moved into the cottage he hadn’t visited her as he still needed sometime to think. However he was now at a place where he felt he needed to speak with his mother again. And so he made his way to the front door.

Texas was thrilled to see her son when she opened the door. She immediately flung her arms around him and held him close.

Texas understood. It had been a shock for her children to see their mother again after so many years. She nodded to say that is was o.k. and the 2 of them sat together on the sofa.

Heathen was touched by how sincere his mother was being but yet there was something he wanted to get off his chest. 

Heathen’s words stung like a bee. Mainly because what Burke had told the children and also due to the fact it was the truth. Texas remained honest and confessed all.

Heathen didn’t judge his mother as he found her story all too relatable. It was similar to his own experiences with Burke.

Mother and son were at last reconciled.

With Heathen having forgiven her Texas felt that her return had been justified. Burke had taken everything away from her before but now she felt that piece by piece she was getting everything back. Reconciling with her daughter Fathom was going to be somewhat more difficult…

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Later that day Burke was in his office having a meeting with his attorney Andre Wayward. There was several issues on the agenda that Burke wanted addressing.

Burke was unsettled by the news that Fred Rimmard appeared to be nothing but a fraudster. However the thought of revealing this to Heathen without definitive proof meant the risk of alienating his son once again. Burke thought better of it.

Andre was glad to hear this. Burke had a tempestuous streak and was known to make rash decisions based on his emotions.

Burke nodded for he knew that if there was one sim who could find out information on anyone else it was Andre Wayward. Which now brought Burke to the final point on his agenda…

Andre had been expecting this and he knew it was a thorny issue for Burke. The fact was there was very little Andre could do about it. Convincing his boss was another thing.

This didn’t sound good. Andre had been in these dangerous waters with Burke before. If he didn’t get what he wanted, Burke was known to take any action he had to and Andre hated being part of it.

Burke thumped his fist against his desk in anger. He was not prepared to accept this at all.

Andre sighed. What could he do but carry out Burke’s instructions. He slowly nodded accepting his fate.

Andre’s acceptance of this seemed to placate and he settled back in his executive chair. Just then his intercom buzzed and it  was Marsha his secretary advising him his next appointment of the day was here. Burke instructed her to send him in.

Mayhew Drysdale took a seat in front of Burke. He hadn’t been expecting a meeting with the boss today and was surprised when he got the memo to come straight up. He had no idea what Burke wanted to see him for or why he had been summoned to come straight up to the boss’s office. 

The mood in the office was very jovial. So why did Mayhew get the feeling there was something else going on behind Burke’s smile?

Mayhew shifted slightly in his seat. There was something in the way Burke looked at him when he mentioned Brystle’s name. Surely he couldn’t know of the affair he and Brystle had once had…? Mayhew gave a terse response.

Burke and Mayhew stared at one another and it was a fraction too long for Mayhew’s liking. Eventually Burke responded.

Mayhew, like Andre, felt he had no option but to go along with Burke’s proposal.

Burke thanked for Mayhew for coming and the 2 men shook hands before Mayhew left the office. Once outside Mayhew took a moment to think in the reception area.

In the office Andre was wrapping up the meeting with Burke too. There was however one thing on his mind, something he had yet to approach Burke about. And seeing what had just occurred in the office between Mayhew and Burke, Andre felt the need to raise the issue.

Burke slowly turned his gaze from where Mayhew had been sitting a moment ago to Andre. His dead eye response told Andre he had just crossed a line.

Andre nodded to say he understood before picking up his briefcase and leaving the office. 

Burke slowly swivelled in his chair, his gaze turning back to where Mayhew had been sitting. He sat in that position for quite a few minutes in quiet contemplation.

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A busy morning in the kitchen of Siloli mansion saw head cook Mrs Bummerson preparing afternoon tea for a gathering of members from Brystle’s chosen charity – The Foundation for Underachieving Children, Kids Or Famished Families. As usual for Mrs Bummerson, everything was too much trouble and she was reminding maid Nannette Bobbins of this much to the chagrin of Nannette.

Nannette had learned to turn a deaf ear to Mrs Bummerson’s whinging and just let the woman carry on. And she did unaware that a certain person had stepped into the kitchen from the servant’s entrance.

Mrs Bummerson dropped her wooden spoon upon hearing Texas’s voice. After backstabbing the woman she then fell over herself to appear nice to her former employer.

Texas smiled for she knew how two faced the head cook could be. However she knew how to play her to get what she wanted.

Texas eyed the maid in front of her. She was not someone she recognised from her time in the mansion and her sources told her she was a recent addition to the staff hired by, and very loyal to, Brystle. Texas realised this woman wasn’t as gullible as Mrs Bummerson and would be harder to break so there was only way to crack her and that was by fear.

The conversation was interrupted by the entrance of Joseph Flanders, the major-domo of Siloli mansion. He had been in the adjoining butler’s pantry and had overheard the whole conversation including Texas’s demands. He decided enough was enough and was not afraid of standing up to the woman. Much to the relief of Nannette. 

Texas rolled her eyes and slowly turned to look at Joseph.

Texas smiled. Whilst she could not stand insubordination from the help she enjoyed the verbal swordplay with the waspish major-domo.

Everyone turned to look as Brystle now stood in the doorway. Both Mrs Bummerson and Nannette quickly went about their duties keeping their head’s down and themselves out of the way. Joseph smirked and took a step back as Brystle approached Texas in the kitchen.

Brystle led Texas out of the kitchen , through the dining room and into the drawing room. Not a word was spoken until they arrived in the room.

Once in the room Texas tried to take control of the conversation.

Texas looked around the room and smiled as she recalled many happy memories she once had of living in the house.

There was a building tension in the air and Texas felt uncomfortable. She didn’t know enough about Brystle yet to determine what was going to come next. Brystle remained very calm as she surveyed the first Mrs Simmington. Like Texas she did not know enough about who she was dealing but all she knew was how she felt and those feelings about Texas were not good. 

Texas reluctantly took a seat but Brystle remained standing.

At the mention of invaded Texas feigned shock.

Brystle carried on regardless.

The two women continued to watch one another both awaiting the other to make the next move. It was Texas who spoke next.

Texas leapt out of her seat and marched across the room. Her anger was beginning to rise but Brystle still remained calm and collected. This irked Texas all the more.

Brystle moved closer to Texas. She would defend her husband to the end.

That was the final straw for Texas. She had just about all she could stomach of the sickly sweet Brystle.

But still Brystle did not rise to meet Texas on her anger. Inwardly she was shaking but she would not let Texas see that. Instead she quite forcefully ordered her out.

Brystle walked calmly out of the drawing room leaving a seething Texas behind.

Battle lines had been drawn between the two women. The question was who would make the next move?

---

Early that evening Mayhew was at home and having a talk with his mother at the dining table. His wife Malaudia was putting their daughter Mimsy to bed and Mayhew was glad to see that his wife was bonding with her daughter at last. Ever since Malaudia had been released from the simitarium she had been on constant edge believing she no longer fitted in the Drysdale family. Some of this was down to living in unfamiliar surroundings as the house had been bought in her absence and the decorating had all been done by his mother. To help Malaudia settle back in Mayhew had agreed for the house to be redecorated once again only this time it was to be Malaudia’s choice of décor and furnishings. So in the past week she had transformed the home and ditched all of Mother Drysdale’s furnishings. 

Also she had began working part time at a book store in town and this was building Malaudia’s confidence. Mayhew was relieved to see his wife regain stability with her mental state. However there had been one other request from her that he had been putting off until now. And that was to ask his mother to move out…

Mayhew could see that his mother was not going to take this well. He tried to soften the blow.

Mother Drysdale was a conniving old woman. She was wily as a fox and she spotted that Mayhew was trying reverse simchology on her trying to make her feel guilty by staying. She knew then to change tact and rather than anger she turned on the waterworks.

Mayhew got the distinct impression his mother was laying it on too thick. He knew his mother to be as tough as old boots. She was faking it.

Mayhew didn’t like to hear his mother using Mimsy as a blackmail tool. He took a sip of coffee as he replied quite firmly to his mother.Mother Drysdale pushed the chair back and got up from the table and made her way to her room. But not without having a wicked thought along the way..

---

After a long day at the office Burke had arrived home from work. He passed his briefcase and coat over to a butler who opened the door of the mansion upon his arrival and made his way inside where he met a beaming Brystle.

Brystle froze at the mention of Mayhew’s name.

Burke gave his wife a peck on the cheek and made his way to the study. Brystle stood still as she contemplated what was about to happen.

In his study Burke sat at his desk and made the phonecall he’d told Brystle about. It was to Seth Dolby who was at his apartment working out.

Seth was silent as he thought on what Burke had just said to him. After a moment he responded.

Seth slipped his boxing gloves back on after the phonecall ended and continued with his workout on the punchbag.

Burke was just hanging up when Fathom walked into the study. He suspected she had been listening in on his conversation as she was prone to doing. He didn’t mind this time for he already had something on his mind that he needed to bring to her attention.

Burke decided to let his daughter know that he was well aware of what she had been getting up to recently.

Fathom marched out of her father’s study in a furious rage. How dare he speak to her like this!

---

Malaudia was tucking in her daughter Mimsy for the third time that evening. It was something that was becoming a habit for her. Mimsy still hadn’t entirely warmed to her mother being back at home but Malaudia understood it would take time. It was when her daughter was fast asleep, and not giving her a load of back chat and sass, that Malaudia felt she could really connect with her child.

Malaudia gently closed the bedroom door on her way out and went back to her bedroom. Not before glancing down the hallway at Mother Drysdale’s room. The light was showing under the crack and for a second Malaudia felt she should knock on her mother-in-law’s door. Mayhew had told her that he’d asked his mother to move out and she hadn’t taken it well. This was understandable Malaudia reasoned but it was for the best for she had always felt that Mayhew’s mother had never liked her….

Malaudia decided against calling and went back into her room where Mayhew was fast asleep in bed. She smiled as she looked at her slumbering husband for she loved him dearly and she felt that he still loved her even if the woohoo between them was non existent.

Malaudia sat on the edge of the bed and listened as her husband rambled in his sleep as he was prone to do.

She listened intently as Mayhew muttered on. A lot of what he was saying was indecipherable but there were sporadic words and phrases she could make out. It was the mention of someone’s name that made Malaudia sharply turn around.

This couldn’t be! Why was Mayhew having a romantic dream about Brystle Simmington, wife of his boss Burke Simmington? Was it just a dream or was it something else? Malaudia was unnerved for she believed that dreamers never lied….

Mayhew’s somnambular witterings continued on for  a moment longer until he loudly snorted and turned over. Malaudia sat beside him in bed her mind racing in overdrive. Would this explain why he had stopped making woohoo with her? Did he love another woman? The same woman they were having dinner with tomorrow night???

---

It was past midnight and all was quiet at the Simmington household. Everyone was asleep and most of the staff had gone home for the day with the exception of the security guards who patrolled the grounds and the butler and maid on night duty. Even live in major-domo Joseph Flanders had retired for the night but he was far from asleep. He was in his quarters of the mansion and was excitedly opening a package that had arrived for him earlier in the day. It was from SimsBay the online marketplace. Joseph frequently made purchases from this site, mainly collectible movies and merchandise. Particularly those of arthouse movies or bad movies with cult followings. It was his secret passion and one that he kept to himself for some of the movies he purchased were of a…..steamy nature. Like the 2 video cassettes he had just purchased and was salivating over as he opened the package.

With trembling hands Joseph inserted the first video cassette. After a few moments of grainy footage the “movie” started and Joseph couldn’t believe what he was watching. It was Texas Simmington in a woohoo movie!!!

And it dawned on Joseph  – Texas had made these movies during her exile from the mansion. No doubt she would do anything to keep this a secret and Joseph felt triumphant.

Joseph switched the movie off, and sat back in his chair. With this knowledge he was one step ahead of Texas and it may be enough to force her to leave. This would please Mr Simmington very much thought Joseph. But his motives weren’t altogether altruistic for he knew that Texas had information on him that she could use to her advantage…

---

The following evening…..

It was the evening of the dinner party at Siloli mansion and Brystle was on tenterhooks. All day long she had been dreading this evening and Mayhew’s arrival and now he was here! It was the first time since before her wedding that she had seen her former secret lover. The night before she married Burke she had had a telephone conversation with Mayhew which was a bittersweet goodbye to the man she was once in love with and would continue to feel dearly for. But here he now stood in the foyer of her home with his wife and Burke. Brystle had never met Malaudia before but she was well aware of her troubles with erratic behaviour and her prolonged stays in a simitarium. Brystle felt a great sense of guilt and shame for the affair with Mayhew and this evening would be very difficult for her to look Malaudia in the eye. Nevertheless she took a deep breath and walked down the stairway to join her husband in greeting their dinner guests.

The two former lovers looked at one another for a fraction of a second too long before Burke spoke next. The slightly lingering look did not go unmissed by Malaudia.

Brystle was smiling but inside she was squirming, this was all too uncomfortable. Again Burke spoke next.

As they moved forward to the drawing room for pre dinner drinks Brystle tried to make conversation with Malaudia.

Malaudia’s terse reply didn’t give Brystle the impression she was keen to engage into any conversation with her. Did Malaudia know something? Did she have her suspicions? Brystle didn’t know for sure. What she did know was that this evening was going to be very trying for her..

………………….

Seth Dolby was the next guest to arrive and with Heathen, Fred and Fathom present the dinner party commenced. Conversation around the dining table was flowing amongst everyone. Mrs Bummerson had prepared an exquisite banquet and Joseph, in his role as major-domo oversaw, his fleet of butlers serve this meal to the guests. As the meal finished conversations amongst everyone continued.

Fathom didn’t appreciate being seated opposite Seth as this implied she was part of a couple with him and this was something she would fight hard against ever happening despite what her father wanted. Seth however gazed doe-eyed across the table at his former flame and the woman he still loved and adored.Seth chuckled at Fathom’s sarcasm. He knew there was no real malice behind her words but he could see that she was clearly bored of him. Still he was confident that he would one day soon win her round.

Burke sat at the  head of the table as usual. He had seated Mayhew and Malaudia next to Brystle at the opposite end to him. He sipped his glass of after dinner nectar as he watched his wife engage in conversation with Mayhew. He observed how his wife smiled as Mayhew spoke with her and how her blue eyes sparkled. Meanwhile poor Malaudia looked uncomfortable and neglected. Burke considered everything he was witnessing and his thoughts were cemented on what he would proceed with next. Having decided this he turned his attentions to Heathen and Fred who were seated next to him.

Burke gave a half hearted smile in response. Where was Andre with the information he wanted on Fred’s background when he needed him? He made his excuses and got up from the table and went over to his cocktail cabinet and poured himself a drink.

Heathen leaned across the table and smile at Fred for he was so proud of his lover standing up to his father.

Heathen smiled again as he dreamily looked into Fred’s eyes and thought to himself how happy he was having him in his life.

Involved with their own conversation at the other end of the table was Brystle and Mayhew.

Whilst on the surface it appeared both women were comfortable with this inwardly both were very uncomfortable with the whole idea…

Mayhew was oblivious to any of this for he only had longing eyes for Brystle. And his gaze did not go unnoticed by Fathom who was sat across the table secretly watching what was going on whilst Seth chatted to her. Fathom had of course listened in on a private conversation between Brystle and Mayhew the night before the wedding but had kept this knowledge to herself…for now…

As the conversations continued Burke asked Mayhew to join him at the drinks cabinet. Mayhew joined him. He had somehow been expecting a conversation like this with Burke but he had no idea what it was about to entail.

Burke smirked and walked away with his drink in his hand. Mayhew had no choice really, he would have to go. For Burke had his reasons for sending the handsome young man half way around the world for an extended period. But he was keeping that to himself. 

---

Texas was alone in her cottage. She was aware of the dinner party Burke was throwing and if truth be told she wanted to gatecrash it but how many spectacular entrances could one woman make? So instead she stayed home, slipped into her silk robe and poured herself a drink. Many thoughts were running through her mind and she needed time alone to think.

As she contemplated on what her next moves would be she heard her door open and gently close. Before she could turn around to see who had entered her domain she caught a whiff of a familiar cologne.

Texas sashayed over to the couch and sat down. Cyril caught a glimpse of her silky smooth leg through her robe and his pulse raced. He quickly moved to sit beside his former lover.

Cyril could see that he had given Texas food for thought. He also knew she was a woman who was very strong willed and would not be pushed around. She would need time to consider the options and give her answer in her own time. He stood as he made preparations to leave.

Texas saw her former lover out. On the doorstep they faced one another. Thoughts of revenge were momentarily put aside for now they were caught up in nostalgia. Texas spoke first.

---

Malaudia was wandering around the corridors of the mansion. She’d gone to the powder room by the entrance but had gotten lost in trying to find her way back to the dining room. There were so many doors! She opened the first set of double doors she came across and walked into Burke’s study. She realised her mistake right away and to make matter’s worse Heathen was sat in the study. He smiled as she stood in the doorway unsure what to do. He beckoned for her to join him.

Heathen stood now full of confidence. He’d only just met Malaudia for the first time this evening but he was already feeling a strong connection to her.

As he strutted out of the room ready to ask the most important question of his life Malaudia smiled at the thought she had helped someone make such an important decision. If only she could sort her own life so simply. Once alone in the study she reflected on what had just happened.

………

Later out on the veranda Brystle had stepped out for some fresh air. The dinner party was half way through but it felt like it had gone on far too long. Or maybe it was just being in the same room as Mayhew and Burke which was making her feel so uneasy. And as she pondered on this as she gazed up into the night sky Mayhew quietly stepped out of the French doors. and joined her.

Brystle quickly hurried back inside but Mayhew followed her.

Brystle rushed out of the room. She didn’t want to hear any of this. How could Mayhew come into her home and say these things? And was it true, did Burke know the truth?

……….

Later  in the dining room only Fathom and Fred remained, the rest of the dinner party indulging in post dinner drinks.

Fathom was protective of her younger brother and whilst not hostile towards Fred she did want to check that he was the right man for Heathen.

Fathom considered this as she sipped her drink. She liked Fred and she wanted her brother to be happy, perhaps Fred was the man for him.

This news confirmed Fred’s fear that Andre was onto him. Surely it would only be a matter of time before he discovered that Fred was not who he said he was and that the whole foundation of Heathen’s and his relationship was built on a lie. Perhaps it was time to leave before he was found out but then he ran the risk of facing the wrath of Cyril Dolby and he didn’t know what would be worse. As he started to feel jittery the door opened and Seth Dolby walked in. Fathom rolled her eyes.

Fred hurriedly made his way out of the dining room. He had to speak with Heathen urgently.

Seth felt hurt by Fathom’s rejection. How could she do this to him?

Fathom left the room too. Seth was left alone with a hard choice to make.

………

While Seth was pondering on what to do Fred had gone upstairs to look for Heathen. What Fathom had told him about Andre compiling a dossier on Fred had completely unnerved him. Fred had thought this would happen and had told Cyril so but his boss had left him no choice but to continue with his affair with Heathen. Panic was taking hold of Fred and he needed to tell Heathen the truth but could he bring himself to do it? To look him in the eye and tell him that their relationship had been built on deception? It would completely destroy Heathen and Fred wasn’t sure he could go through with it. But as he entered their bedroom and found Heathen pacing the room it looked as if he was already too late. Perhaps Heathen had found out.

Fred was completely taken aback by Heathen’s proposal. He hadn’t expected this at all and he was now totally conflicted. On the one hand he had been hired by the Simmington family’s arch enemy to infiltrate their inner circle and find out a much as he could. On the other hand he had totally fallen in love with Heathen along the way and he didn’t realise the extent of how he felt just until this moment.

Fred looked down at his lover and in an instant he made his decision.

With that the two lovers began to pack a few things and get changed as they planned to run off into the night and get married. While Heathen was excited Fred had other things on his mind. He was following his heart and ignoring what Cyril had hired him to do. Yes Cyril had ordered Fred to marry Heathen but he was now doing this out of love and not because he was a hustler for hire. The only question was what to do with Cyril….?

………………

Downstairs Burke was in mid conversation with Seth.

Before Seth could answer Fathom walked up the corridor behind them as she made her way upstairs. Seth looked at her and smiled before turning back to Burke.

Fathom ignored what she had just heard. At the top of the stairs she looked down as Burke congratulated Seth, his latest protégé. Inwardly she groaned as she couldn’t believe her father had done this.

Fathom made her way to her room and texted Michael on her way….

…….

A short while later Brystle walked into the drawing room to find Malaudia drinking alone. All evening long there hadn’t been much conversation between the two of them and Brystle wanted to make the effort now while Burke was drinking with Mayhew and Seth in the study.

Brystle froze as she didn’t know what to say. She’d had a feeling that Malaudia suspected the affair and now she had the confirmation. But having the GOOD trait meant it was impossible for Brystle to lie.

Malaudia remained poker faced, it was hard for Brystle to read her right now.

Malaudia made for the door but gave a biting remark as she left the room.

Brystle was at a loss as what to do. Would Malaudia tell Burke or should she come clean herself and risk her marriage…..?

………..

In the solarium Fathom was passing the time by lighting up her bong and blowing some bubbles. The bubble blowing machine was not illegal in Windenburg but it was frowned upon for its mind altering effects it had on Sims. Nevertheless it remained popular with students and young adults, as well as those with ongoing debilitating medical conditions, as the sense of euphoria it induced left Sims on a high for hours at a time. And as this night was getting increasingly irksome for Fathom she needed to lighten the mood a little. That was why she’d texted her woohoo buddy and Simmington chauffeur Michael Constrain to join her. He’d been all too willing to leave his room in the servants quarters and sneak his way in.

Michael pulled up a chair alongside the bubble machine and grabbed a nozzle.

Fathom inhaled deeply and felt a rush like never before as she exhaled the bubbles.

A naughty smile came over Fathom’s face as they both stood up. Her father’s dinner party was happening just down the corridor but she didn’t care.

Michael followed Fathom out to the pool and they both stripped naked before cannonballing into the water.

They both splashed around before smooching deeply underwater. When they emerged Michael made a declaration.

Michael agreed. He was cool with that too. And if it guaranteed more regular woohoo with Fathom then he wasn’t for complaining. 

………..

While Fathom and Michael were nosily splashing around and laughing in the pool Heathen and Fred were outside the front of the house packing an overnight case into Heathen’s car as they prepared to elope. Suddenly Heathen developed a last minute case of jitters.

And with that they both got into Heathen’s sportscar and sped off into the night…

………

Inside Brystle was still in the drawing room since Malaudia had left her almost half an hour ago. She’d been afraid of what might have come next if Malaudia had gone straight to the study and revealed all to Burke but that hadn’t happened. In fact she could hear Burke laughing and joking with their guests so it was obvious nothing had been said….for now. Perhaps it would be best if she went straight to bed as her presence might aggravate Malaudia all the more. Anyway she did feel a headache coming on, probably due to all the stress she was feeling. But before she could go to bed , the door opened and Joseph hurried in.  It looked like he had something urgent to reveal.

Brystle followed the major-domo out onto the lanai and sure enough there was a very naked Fathom cavorting in the pool with Michael. Brystle was not impressed. 

A naked Fathom brazenly walked over to a lounger in front of Brystle and casually wrapped herself in a towel.

Fathom could see she had inflicted the damage she intended. Brystle didn’t know what to say. Fathom picked up her dress off the floor and walked into the house leaving her step mother alone by the pool.

This evening had gone from bad to worse for Brystle and she could not see it getting any better. Burke was going to find out one way or another about her affair with Mayhew if not from Fathom then from Malaudia. And what of Mayhew’s warnings about the kind of man Burke really was. If he thought that Brystle had been keeping secrets from him then who knows what he would do. And when Fathom had repeated back the very words Brystle had said to Mayhew over the phone the night before the wedding it made her think….did she really still have feelings for Mayhew after all?

Alone and confused, Brystle stood by the swimming pool under the night sky and silently wept…..

---

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3 WEEKS LATER….

Burke and Brystle were nearing the end of their honeymoon. Over the past few weeks they had visited many countries taking in all the famous sites. They had been happy alone together. For Brystle it was a relief to see Burke enjoy himself without the worry of what may be happening back in Windenburg. As they both boarded the Simmington private jet that would take them back home they were taking back a lifetime of wonderful memories of some of the most beautiful sites they had visited:

First was swinging London where they caught the tube

 

Then it was over to Paris where they got flirty in the Louvre

Then on to beautiful Rome to visit the Trevi Fountsim

And the final stop was magnificent India

As their plane took off on the long journey back to Windenburg the newlyweds settled back with some drinks. As the journey progressed Brystle noticed Burke seemed distracted.

Brystle sipped at her drink. There was very little she knew about Texas other than that she and Burke had parted quite bitterly. It appeared Texas had been having multiple affairs whilst Burke concentrated on building WindenburgSimmington. When he had found out he threw her out of the mansion and also out of their children’s lives. Asking Burke to elaborate on the details usually resulted in him shutting down but Brystle continued anyway.

Burke got up and moved over to the other side of the plane. Brystle knew she had hit a raw nerve. She got up and joined her husband on the sofa. Burke smiled at his new bride.

Burke was sure that Brystle could and the two smiled at one another before moving together in a passionate embrace and smooch.

Whatever trouble lay in store for them it was several hours away. For now the newlyweds had better ways of spending those hours together other than talking about the first Mrs Simmington….

---

Malaudia had now been home for a little over 3 weeks following her prolonged stay in the Windenburg State Simitarium for Clinically Erratic Sims. She had been released under the guidance of  her psymchiatrist Dr Mick Broscanni who would continue to monitor her progress with weekly home visits and today was the day of the visit.

Dr Broscanni and Malaudia sat facing one another in the living room and Mick knew Malaudia seemed distant and withdrawn. He pressed her to talk about it.

 

Malaudia sighed. For the past few therapy sessions she hadn’t been open and honest about she was really feeling. Now was the time to say what was on her mind.

Dr Broscanni was concerned at Malaudia’s outpouring. He had not seen her like this since her first admittance to his simitarium. If he didn’t get her back on her feet there was a danger she could slip further. Why hadn’t her husband noticed this?

 

And there it was. Mick had been hoping he wouldn’t hear this but now Malaudia was talking about voices in her head. This was not a good sign.

Mick was relieved to hear this. Before when Malaudia was at her most erratic she’d imagined she was receiving mysterious phonecalls from a gravel voiced demon called Pasimzu who made threats to her and instructed her to do crazy things.

They continued their session for the next hour and made good progress. Mick left with instructions for Malaudia to aid her mental wellbeing – to redecorate the house, to go away for the weekend with just Mayhew and Mimsy (no Mother Drysdale) and to find herself a job.

All of this seemed perfectly reasonable to Malaudia and she agreed to achieve all of this by their next session together. She thanked Dr. Broscanni and waved him off from the front door. As she closed the door she heard a sound coming from the kitchen. It was a sound she had not heard in a very long time. And it was something she could not believe she was hearing….

It was the sound of a ringing phone….

Malaudia slowly made her way to the counter top staring at the ringing phone in disbelief. Where had it come from? And who was calling?

With a trembling hand Malaudia reached for the phone…..

Unbeknownst to Malaudia, Mother Drysdale was quietly hiding in her bedroom. She had convinced Malaudia that she would be out for the day touring the local flea markets to see if she could add to her collection of knock-off Fabergé Eggs. She had been listening in on the therapy session, just as she had on every other session, and had decided that the time was right to push her fragile daughter-in-law over the edge. And so as Malaudia picked up the phone Mother Drysdale put on her deepest gravel voice and began….

Malaudia dropped the phone to the floor and it smashed into pieces. She couldn’t believe what had just happened. Her worst fears had come true….

And as she screamed in terror Mother Drysdale could barely contain her laughter….

---

Fathom was going for a mid morning jog around the mansion grounds when her mobile phone rang. She was going to ignore it but when she saw who the call was coming from she quickly pressed accept.

And with a quick change of clothes Fathom was heading out the front door of Siloli mansion. Her father’s chauffeur, Michael Constrain, was by the stretch limo.

Michael smiled as Fathom approached him. He hadn’t seen or spent anytime with her in recent months.

Fathom rolled her eyes. It was true that once or twice she had woohooed with Michael. She had done it in secret both times when she had wanted to get back at her father for something. Burke would be livid if he knew his daughter was sleeping with the chauffeur and would no doubt fire Michael on the spot. Playing with people’s lives gave Fathom no cause for concern as long as she got her way.

Michael opened the car door for her and Fathom got in. He closed the door and got in and drove in silence all the way to Falcon SimCrest, the home of Cyril Dolby.

Fathom retouched her lipstick before getting out of the limo. She ordered Michael to wait outside for her before strutting into the mansion. Cyril was pouring a drink in his study as she arrived.

Fathom took off her sunglasses. This was the last thing she had expected to hear from Cyril. Why was he asking her about her mother?

Fathom turned away from Cyril. She was disappointed this was all he had wanted to see her about and she did not want him to see that.

Fathom couldn’t believe what Cyril was saying to her or how he was behaving towards her. Didn’t he realise that she was in love with him? Hadn’t she made that clear enough to him? Fathom marched into the conservatory after him, her disappointment turning to anger. How dare he imply she was very much like her mother.

With that Fathom stormed out of the mansion. Michael was waiting for her outside and could see from her face that she was not happy. He didn’t say anything as she got in the car and he drove away.

After ten minutes of driving in silence Michael made a sudden stop. It was a place where they had come to before to make out. He got out of the car and then opened the rear passenger door and Fathom stepped out. She looked around and realised where Michael had brought her to.

Michael moved forward and gave Fathom a lingering smooch.

Michael stepped back for he was not sure what Fathom would do next. However she grabbed his hand and pulled him into the nearest bush and there commenced a session of frantic shrubbery woohoo.

When they were finished a gasping Michael poked his head out to make sure the coast was clear.

---

Across town Heathen was working at WindenburgSimmington. He’d been there for a few weeks now and whilst it was not his dream career he was making the effort to learn about his father’s business. He worked with the PR team in creating marketing campaigns for the company as well as doing online and magazine articles featuring his father.

Heathen was in his father’s office and had decided to spend the day there as he composed an article for men’s lifestyle magazine SQ regarding his father. The phone buzzed and it was Marsha his father’s secretary who informed Heathen that Fred had arrived to visit him. Beaming happily Heathen asked for Fred to be sent in.

Fred looked around the large office in awe. He had never seen been to WindenburgSimmington headquarters before.

Fred followed Heathen over to Burke’s desk and Heathen motioned for him to sit in his father’s chair. Fred settled into the luxurious leather chair.

They both giggled at their flirtatious banter. The thought of having woohoo right here in the office was very tempting for them both but was very risky. Fred looked around the office and wondered what the room next to the desk was.

So with Heathen gone for a poop Fred looked around for something to do. He caught sight of the files sat on the desk.

Just then the doors opened and WindenburgSimmington lawyer Andre Wayward walked in. He had been overseeing the running of the company in Burke’s absence and was surprised to see Fred sat behind Burke’s desk. Fred quickly scurried out from where he was just as Heathen emerged from having his poop in the bathroom.

Heathen looked from Fred to Andre and could sense some hostility from the lawyer and some unease from his lover and immediately tried to intervene.

Fred didn’t want to cause a scene. He knew that Heathen would not back down from Andre so he stepped forward and decided to leave.

Andre and Fred stared at one another for a moment before Fred left the office.

Andre smiled and shook his head. He took a seat and put his briefcase on the table.

Heathen got up from the table and walked out of the office. Andre still felt the need to inform him that he was making a mistake.

---

Mayhew had finished work for the day and had just returned home. He took off his tie as he walked through the door. He hated wearing them but his job as executive salesman with WindenburgSimmington required him to meet many clients and thus he had to be smartly dressed at all times.

He walked into the living room and saw Malaudia looking out of the window into the back yard.

There was no response from his wife. Mayhew walked closer to her. He could see she was fixed on watching Mimsy swim in the backyard pool…and on his mother who was sat in the yard supervising her grand-daughter.

Malaudia turned and looked at her husband. When she spoke it was with a calm firmness.

Malaudia sat down beside her husband. She knew this would be difficult for him to hear. But after her session with Dr Broscanni and then the phonecall she had …imagined…Malaudia knew she had to take a firm stand before she started to relapse into wild erratic behaviour.

Malaudia sighed with relief. They both stood up and faced one another.

Malaudia felt like she was truly reconnecting with her husband again and for Mayhew he was starting to remember how much he did love his wife. Thoughts of Brystle were, however, never far from his mind….

Malaudia turned her gaze out of the window and onto Mother Drysdale and for the first time she felt like she was getting the upper hand over her mother-in-law.

Mother Drysdale sat outside. She may have been looking at her grand-daughter merrily splashing around in the swimming pool but she was far from paying attention. Mother Drysdale liked to keep one step ahead and as such she had turned up the setting on her hearing aid to 10. On that setting she could hear an ant fart in Oasis Springs.

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Rainclouds were gathering and a storm was brewing. The sea was dark, the black waters lapping around the jetty as the wind began to pick up. Fred arrived at the harbour crab house and walked in. He wasn’t familiar with the place but he had picked it out as it was far enough away from Windenburg so as not to bump into anyone he knew. And even thought the weather was not great Fred kept on his sunglasses just in case he did get recognised…

Fred looked around the shack and spotted the person he was here to meet sat in a corner booth. He made his way over.

Fred looked across the table at the person he had come to meet and spoke first.

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Back in Windenburg the weather was a lot sunnier. Fathom had just arrived back at Siloli mansion. As Michael drove the limo up the driveway they spotted a stretch white limo parked outside the front door. Several men were carrying a load of suitcases and boxes from the car into the house. It must be father and Brystle back from honeymoon thought Fathom.

After Michael parked the car he opened the door for Fathom and she stepped out. He gently grabbed her arm to stop her from going straight into the house.

Michael felt quite happy for he believed that there was still hope that Fathom would one day realise he was the man for her. Fathom however had more pressing matters to deal with and had already forgotten about Michael as she stepped into the hallway. There she was greeted by major-domo Joseph Flanders.

Fathom couldn’t believe the nerve of her mother letting herself back into the house and venturing upstairs too! Texas seemed to delight in seeing her daughter flare up in anger and as she merrily sashayed down the stairs she had further words for her daughter.

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Back at The Rusty Anchor, Fred was still having his secret meeting with Cyril…

Fred sat back and considered his next move. Cyril remained perfectly still staring at him. Eventually Fred relented. From his man bag he produced a thick document file. He placed it on the table.

Cyril quickly flicked through the document and his eyes seemed to light up. He quickly closed the file and stood up holding the document close.

Fred watched as Cyril left the crab house. He couldn’t believe what he was hearing. He’s been hired by Cyril to do a job, that was to get Heathen Simmington working for Burke. Then he was to gather information on WindenburgSimmington that Cyril could use to the advantage of DolbyDoh. Fred felt he had done that also. Now Cyril was extending and altering their agreement. Just what was he planning next?

Outside Cyril took another sneaky look through the dossier Fred had given him and then chuckled to himself.

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Fathom followed her mother into the solarium situated just off the hallway. Texas was swanning around like she owned the place and Fathom was not prepared to stand for it.

Joseph stood in the doorway unsure on what to do next. It was then the front door opened. He turned around to see Burke and Brystle arrive home. He quickly made his way towards them.

Burke was livid! He marched straight towards Texas with a fretful Brystle hurrying after her husband. Texas stepped out of the solarium to meet him halfway.

The horror of what Texas was saying quickly dawned on Burke and he sat down before his legs gave way from under him. How could this of happened? Why hadn’t his been taking care of? Burke knew Texas was correct and right now she had the upper hand.

Fathom opened her mouth in shock but could not find any words to say. Brystle was full of concern for the rising anger in her husband. Burke exploded in anger at his former wife.

But Texas merely smiled at the chaos she was causing. Seeing that she had achieved the maximum disruption she’d wanted to achieve she sauntered across the hallway towards the front door.

Burke, Brystle and Fathom watched in stunned silence as Texas left the house. Burke quickly reached for his phone and got dialling. There had to be a way to fix this. Surely Texas couldn’t just decide to move in? That title deed had to be void following their divorce…hadn’t it?

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