Austin Miguel Dominguez II, Chapter 6

Austin Miguel II (31), Kea his wife (28) their son Austin Victor III (4).
Narrated by Miguel.

Kea and I have been getting along better lately. We have had our ups and downs but I think we are finally settling into this marriage thing. Even our baby Victor notices that we are not arguing as much. Kea still wants to go back to work so I agreed that she should. This seemed to lessen the tension on our marriage. I just want all of us to be happy but sometimes it seems that the closer we get to that nirvana the farther it goes.

I have had several business meetings at home. Kenneth is my collegue and we have him over for dinner quite often. He and Kea seem to get along. The minute we start talking about our building plans Kea lets us be.
Kenneth managed to ask us about having more kids. That is a touchy subject for Kea so I let her respond to that quesiton. If it were up to me we would definitely be having another baby. I just fear that that the moment, Kea resents having to stay home more than she works.

Our sex life has gone down dramatically. Since I get home so late and exhausted I head straight to bed. The nights that I do want to wait up for Kea she takes forever and next thing I know im asleep. I dont want this to affect our relationship but work right now is too stressful for me to be anything but exhausted.

Finally after weeks of exhaustion I get the chance to come home and cuddle with my wife. Kea is understanding therefore I have learned from her to understand her situation. I have no idea how she roped me into taking care of Victor the next day while she went to work. Sure I have taken care of my son but not the whole day by myself. I just hope that Victor and I are able to bond tommorrow.

I got up bright and early and announced to Victor that it was Daddy and Son day. For the looks of it he really didnt get too excited of our planned day together.

I tried to follow the schedule that Kea left me. I always thought that she was not as busy as this schedule shows her to be. After feeding Victor, Potty training him and playing with him, its time for his nap. I set him down, look at the rest of the schedule and get going.

I never thought that I would make such a mess in the kitchen. Kea placed cleaning the kitched up therefore I am going to do it. This doesnt seem so bad.. oh look Kea missed a spot when she cleaned last time.

Seeing that Victor is still asleep I managed to get some exercise on on our new treadmill. Both Kea and I were starting to look a little pudgy and that will not do.

I hurried and took a shower and before long I head Victor shouting. I knew that nap time was over and he was hungry. I put him in his high chair and I was ready for him to eat and I was ready for Kea to come hom. I played Peek a boo with him but he was getting tired of being with me. I know he missed him mom a lot.

Finally Kea came home gave me a kiss and I handed her Victor. I never heard Victor squeal so much. Kea was ecstatic about her research projects but I just wanted to go up and take a big nap.

Things have been going so well at work that it has Jordan (my ex-) trying to woo me over to her company. I am sure she got my number from a client of ours. Due to our dating history Kea told me that she didnt want me anywhere near Jordan. The problem is that Jordan and I are in the same career. We go to the same meetings so we are bound to see and speak to each other. Jordan and I have an understanding that nothing will happen between us but Kea does not nor wants to understand that. That's why Jordan ceased her business with my company...but now she was offering at 10,000 sign on bonus and rights to my latest building plans. Of course I said no. However that money would come so much in handy.

I did not know how to approach the subject with Kea. During dinner I managed to casually mention that I had an opportunity to get promoted. Kea loved the idea especially if it meant for her to spend more time at work while I stayed home. I dont see how it would work that way but she wanted more details. I told her that Jordan had offered me $10,000 to join her firm and that was a lot of money to sign on.

Kea looked at me dumbfounded and asked a billion questions regarding how Jordan got my number. She fails to realize that both Jordan and I travel in the same business circles all the time.
"Miguel, I understand you want a promotion. We all do but at what expense? I don't trust Jordan and I know that she wants you for herself. I wish you would see things my way and just cut her off socially."
"so does this mean a no to working with Jordan"
"Im afraid so Miguel. I just dont feel comfortable you being with her all the time" Truth was that I didnt know why she saw Jordan as such competition.

After dinner I decided to take a walk. I needed a breath of fresh air. I needed to understand why Kea didn't see this as a golden opportunity for us to grow as a family. The $10,000 would help us pay our taxes and even have Victor attend private school. I just have to keep focused on my family. I would have to call Jordan and turn her proposal down.

I decided to email Jordan because it would simply be easier than actually talking to her. Her email response was rather quickly and in it she stated, "Miguel, as CEO of this company I find it hard to believe that you will not be willing to spread your wings. I will go above my original offer and make it a sign on bonus of $25,ooo and exclusive rights to the current building draft. Let me know what you think. I honestly think that this is a one time offer. Sincerely yours, Jordan Bachman, CEO" Wow now the price was $25,000 but that was way too much.

I couldnt contain my glee of the possibility of getting a sign on bonus of $25,000. This has to mean that Jordan's company is either doing very well or its actually collapsing and she desparately needs new talent. I looked at Victor and knew that I really would have to consider this offer.

I tucked Victor in and I decided that money is not everything. It would be nice but it is more important for my wife and I to get along. So for our marriage sake I am going to yet turn down the proposal. Jordan would want to know as soon as possible so I would call her before my late dinner with Kea.

I called Jordan and explained to her that I could not accept her offer. She then proceeded to tell me that her client was in desperate need of the draft that I had let certain people get a preview of. I didnt know what to say. Part of me felt betrayed that my draft was out there getting viewed and criticized without my knowledge. Right when I was telling Jordan of my disapproval and she told me that she was authorized to give me a $50,000 sign on bonus just for my draft. Before I hung up I told Jordan that I accepted. I would find some way to make it up to Kea.

I told Kea during dinner and I did not get the support I needed. Kea right away argued that money was more important to me than our happiness. I know that she is upset but she will realize that we needed this cash more now than ever.

She was so upset that she didnt even want to continue eating her food. She got up and told me that she was going to bed. That meant that she was beyond angry. I just hoped that I did not damage our marriage beyond repair. I just have to keep seeing the bigger picture.

Africa Dominguez Ch 6

Africa (34) , Laci Hourvitz (34) Their Children: Darius and Dominica twins (17), Sasha and Nicolas twins (8)
Narrated by : Africa


I still can not believe that im pregnant! I come home late from work trying to get everything in order. Ever since I announced that I was pregnant everyone started panicking. Laci says I have to take it slow but I just cant stop all this energy that I have lately. I remember Laci used to be tired but I am the opposite.

Lately Laci and I have been quite busy trying to figure out how to pay our bills. First we have to now pay taxes and we have to see how if Darius and Dominica are going to college. If they do decide to go then we literally have nothing set up for their tuition. I dont know how were going to do it but we have to. Laci says I should stop stressing out because it will all be fine. In the long run if in case they do go to college they can always apply for grants and loans. I just never planned correctly for this.

Lately I have been having so much nausea its ridiculous. I hate having the guile rise in my throat. I literally have to find the nearest bathroom within seconds.

Laci is working on her logic skill for her promotion. We have not even finished this room yet. This used to be Sasha and Nicolas' nursery but we decided to leave the room for our personal use. Laci needed to improve her skill so we decided to buy a chess set.
I want to teach Sasha and Nicolas how to play. Darius and Dominica just stare at me when I ask them if they want to learn. Darius is the first one that finds something else to do.

I woke up one morning with blood everywhere and I had the worst cramps. I woke Laci up and she rushed me to the ER. I knew something was wrong. All I kept thinking about was how to explain this to my kids. They saw me getting into the car and their faces were full of worry.

I ended up having a miscarriage. I didnt know what I did wrong but the doctor told me that I could have been under too much stress. He told me that if I wanted to try again to at least wait six months. Laci was sad and tried to pep me up. I felt like such a failure. It was my first time getting pregnant and I lost the baby so fast.

I pretty much stayed in bed and came down to eat while everyone was gone to school and work. The kids understood. Poor Nicolas just hugged me lightly and told me that he was sorry. Darius and Dominica came and told me that they both decided to go to college. They applied for grants and each received $1,000. I hate to think that they are going to get loans to start their young adult life.
Now that the kids are growing up I think about marriage a lot. I wonder if I did not or am not sending the wrong message by not marrying Laci. Trust me we are fine without the paper saying that were "married" but still. Now with my miscarriage im thinking about proposing.

Laci planned a party to wish the twins, Darius and Dominica, a farewell. She also told me that Asia said she needed to see me to make sure that everything was going well with me. I didnt want her to see me like this but I cant turn her away.

Asia came over and gave me a hug and I just started crying. I had all this pent up emotion that I did not know what to do with. She hugged me and told me that everything would be OK. It felt good to hug my twin. No matter how much I discuss this I feel that only she can get me. Laci doesn't understand it but with us having two sets of twins on our own she is starting to get the hang of it.

During dinner we discussed our lives and the news of all of our family. We ran down the list: Miguel was fine with little Victor and Kea. Atani was good with her twins, Suki was enjoying her baby and Ariel well she was the only one we havent seen. After her college graduation she choose to move downtown and live there. I still think that living that far away from Viramontes was not a good idea but how could we stop her from doing it?

My kids are great kids and I thank god everyday for them. the other day as I was reading a book I overheard Darius telling Sasha and Nicolas that they would have to take care of Laci and me while they were gone. I couldnt believe what I was hearing. I was proud that my son, Darius was so considerate. I looked at them and remembered like it was yesterday how I held each one of them in my arms.

The night of the graduation/college party for Darius and Dominica I felt so depressed. Laci came in and told me that I had to show up for the kids and the family. I did not really want to but then I knew she was right. What would my family say if I didnt even show up to their party.
Laci hugged me not caring that she would get wet with the bubbles, " You know I love you and everything is going to be OK. We can try to get pregnant again. Baby if you need someone to talk to...well we can"
"Laci..I know it will be OK. Your right, I will get ready and try to put one foot in front of the other. I will see the twins off. Ill be right down OK"

Even though Dominica does not tell us, I can see that she is holding a torch for a college freshman named, Kampol Do. Apparently they have been seeing each other as "friends" but I think its more than that. He goes to the college where they are accepted. Hopefully Dominica will concentrate on her books and not major in a PhD on Mr. Kampol.

The party was successful. Everyone came out and had fun talking with each other. It had been a long time since the party was reunited this way. It was good having everyone here to wish Darius and Dominica farewell.

Before long everyone left including my first born. I hugged Dominica and Darius. I whispered in Darius' ear that everything would be OK. I made them promise to take care of each other.

Once everything was cleaned up and the kids put to sleep I went up to see Laci. She was concentrating on a game of chess and when she looked up she said, "im proud of you. I know it was hard socializing with everyone but thank you. It meant a lot to Dominica and Darius"
"Hmm it didnt mean a lot only to them. It meant a lot to me to show my family that im strong. Are you going to be long or y ou coming to bed?"
"Im going to play this for a little while? Why did you need something?"
"Just you"

I still had my old touch because Laci and I made love that night just like we did when we moved in together. It felt great being with her and realizing that I love her more now than ever.
Several months later......................................................

I guess I was so relaxed that I got pregnant without thinking about it. Now I am taking extra careful with this pregnancy. I am reading all the books and I am taking time off of work. Im still in my second trimester but I don't want to take any chances.

I am also napping a lot more. With this pregnancy I am much sleepier than I was with the last one. Laci says that this is a good sign but I am not sure. I am still scared of losing another baby. Hopefully all will go smoothly.


Authors note:
I did not plan on Africa losing her baby. She made love with Laci and I guess her hunger level went too low. Before I knew it she got up and miscarried. Her current pregnancy was a complete surprise. During the party I heard Chimes and I was surprised. I have ACR but never had an actual pregnancy occur with out me initiating it. Either way I am glad she is having this baby **fingers crossed**

Asia Dominguez- Ch 6

Asia (33) Naremi (6)

Alvin Kuta and I are still dating but it seems like things are going on a downward spiral. Him and I are both so busy with our careers that we find it difficult to find time for a date. I am also find that my juggling career is not giving me too much time for Naremi.

I made a new friend Joe Carr. At first we were feeling each other to see if maybe there was sparks there. Thankfully we did not go down that road and we are able to be friends. Naremi loves Joe but she knows he is just a friend. I have to admit its nice getting a guy's point of view. He also agrees that Alvin and I might be breaking up. Conveniently he has a friend named Vincent that he has been dying to set me up with. Who knows I am actually considering it.

Alvin and I finally made a dinner date at the house and to my dismay he called and cancelled. I asked him if just wanted to postpone the time and he said no. As soon as I hung up I called Joe and told him to give his friend my number.

Naremi has been missing Alvin a lot lately and it breaks my heart that she always asks for him. apparently he had promised to get her a fish but never came through. I told her that I would take her to get fish but via fishing. I got up and planned a quickie vacation for Naremi and I.

Naremi was amazed at Three Lakes Lodge. We had a blast trying to learn to catch fish. She actually caught one versus I only caught an old boot. Our guide was wonderful. The sad part for Naremi was actually having to sleep in a tent. She thought I was kidding when I pointed the the tent earlier and I said, "we will be sleeping there later". By the time our vacation was over we were dying to get back to our house and sleep in our comfy beds.
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Alvin finally made it over for dinner but I choose to send Naremi to her aunt Africa's house. We made small talk but there was nothing really to say between us. Alvin kept sighing throughout the whole dinner. I finally asked him, "so whats going on? Clearly we are not on the same page anymore"

"I know I have been distant. Asia it's not you, its actually me. I want to make things work with you but I am so busy at work right now. I hope I dont know maybe take a break?"
"You know Alvin, I have to be honest. I really have been feeling as though we are no longer each other's priority. I understand about your work. Trust me I understand. I myself and contemplating a career change. We can always remain friends and who knows.. maybe in the future we can pick up where we left off."
"Thats why I am going to miss you. You are the one girl I have met that is so drama free. Here I was expecting this big scene when its just a calm discussion between the two of us".
Asia looked at Alvin and smiled. In truth she was worried that her first real boyfriend and relationship was now over. At least she can add this to her book of experiences and call it a day.

Joe did make on his promise and give his friend Vincent my phone number. We decided to meet in Downtown Viramontes for some nice friendly fun. I was walking around the shopping mall when I noticed this guy and boy oh boy did I notice him. You know one always hopes that he is the guy but then I thought I could not be that lucky.
"Excuse me...you wouldnt happen to be Asia would you?"
"Vincent? Wow Its so nice to meet you."

We sat down for dinner and we talked introduced ourselves. You have to love the first date. It's awkward for both of you. The questions always remain the same, "What are you looking for? What are you into? When was your last relationship? Any kids?" Vincent answered all of mine. He had no kids, he was into his master's program and he had graduated as a lawyer. He was unsure of the kid part since he is 37 years old and never thought that he would meet someone. He is an only child and he is currently trying to find someone to befriend and definitely be more. For a first date we had so much fun just talking and before we ended it he asked me out again.

Our second date was at the bowling alley. I had not been bowling in such a long time. I think the last time I was here was with my parents and you can imagine that was along time ago. Vincent was a good sport.

Honestly I did not want to laugh when he slipped but he told me I could so I did! It was great to be able to be with someone that could laugh at themselves too. We ended our date and it was great. Before he dropped me off he had me already booked for a third date.

Our third date was two weeks later. For a minute I thought that he was never going to call me. When he did he asked me out for coffee and some ice skating. As you can see we are not good at the ice skating portion of it.

This time after our date I invited him in for some coffee. Naremi was already gone to bed. I let the babysitter go home and it was just Vincent and I alone at home. I am loving the fact that Vincent is not pushy just because he knew that Naremi was asleep. We ended the night and we hugged and kissed very lightly. I was falling for this guy faster that I had ever imagined.

I know what your thinking. Alvin called and said he wanted no that he needed to talk to me as soon as possible. I told him to come over to talk. I asked him what was the urgency regarding and he asked me if it was true that I was dating someone else. He put his hand on mine and all I could think about was how I wish he were Vincent. Its funny how when you break up with someone, no matter how cordial you always see the person differently. Now that I looked at Alvin I wondered what I saw in him to begin with. I pulled my hand away and told him that I was seeing Vincent and that we were seriously dating. Alvin for some reason thought that we were on hiatus. I never agreed to that. I cleared our terms up again and this time he realized that his need for a "break" actually involved giving me freedom. Too late now I thought. He went home and promised that he would try his best to "win me back". I think it would be useless effort but to each his own.

When Vincent came over, I decided to give him this big hug. I had missed him so much and I could not believe that it had been two days since I had seen him last. Vincent whispered in my ear, "I have miss you so much."

I decided to tell Vincent about Alvin and he appreciated me being honest. He asked me if I felt or harbored any feelings for Alvin and my immediate response was no. He was told me, "Im glad to hear that. I dont want to compete, especially for someone who doesnt feel for me the way I feel for her."

Dont know how but we ended up in my bedroom. Don't get the wrong idea, im still a virgin. We did however have a strong make out session. When Vincent wanted to take a step further I stopped him and told him that I had never been with no one. That when he asked about Naremi and I told him that she was adopted. It will never stop amazing me how men get this gleam in their eye when they find out i'm a virgin.

At the end of the night we kissed and I felt so happy. Vincent officially asked me to be his girlfriend and I whispered, "of course". I am ecstatic and at the same time scared of what our future could bring.