Create a family! (with a twist!) 💮

[olivelovesnames]

[name_u]Braeden[/name_u] [name_u]Kyle[/name_u] [name_m]Johnson[/name_m] (17) is Estelle’s younger brother. Though they are 5 years apart, [name_u]Braeden[/name_u] & [name_f]Estelle[/name_f] are very close. [name_f]Estelle[/name_f] and Braeden’s girlfriend, [name_u]Delaney[/name_u], are both really into music, and [name_u]Delaney[/name_u] sometimes sings while [name_f]Estelle[/name_f] plays piano. [name_u]Braeden[/name_u] doesn’t play any instruments but likes to listen to his sister and beloved girlfriend play.

[name_u]Braeden[/name_u] is more into film and creating videos. He has filmed music videos for both Frenemy and [name_f]Estelle[/name_f] and [name_u]Delaney[/name_u], who have formed their own, more classical/country duo band. While he could be labeled as a “Drama Kid”, [name_u]Braeden[/name_u] is also a full on jock. Playing on varsity football & basketball, as well as a hockey team outside of school, [name_u]Braeden[/name_u] loves to work out, especially with friends or [name_u]Delaney[/name_u].

[name_u]Braeden[/name_u] is one of those kids who is super kind; and that is what makes him popular. He has a lot of friends, in both the creative group and jock group. He and [name_u]Delaney[/name_u] met on Student [name_m]Council[/name_m] and started dating in sophomore year. His biggest claim to fame is doing his sophomore HOCO proposal in front of the whole school at a rally (getting permission from the school), and [name_u]Delaney[/name_u] said yes. They have been dating for about two years now, and he is so happy. While other girls fawn over him and wish to be his girlfriend, he’s truly in love with his beautiful girlfriend. One of these girls is [name_u]Tatum[/name_u], his 8th-9th grade girlfriend, who broke up with him at the end of freshman year. Of course, now she’s jealous. She hates [name_u]Delaney[/name_u] with a passion and tries to get [name_u]Braeden[/name_u] back. Making him jealous by kissing other guys at parties, walking by him everyday, and sitting next to him in every class. [name_u]Braeden[/name_u] doesn’t really care because he knows how much he loves [name_u]Delaney[/name_u] and he’s moved on from [name_u]Tatum[/name_u]. While [name_u]Delaney[/name_u] was uncomfortable about this at first, [name_u]Braeden[/name_u] has reassured her that he only wants her, and she has gotten over it.

[kitkatcookie]

tw: difficult premature birth

[name_u]Delaney[/name_u] [name_f]Faith[/name_f] Brouchard (17) is Braeden’s girlfriend and source of envy when it comes to other members of the student body. A member of the netball and hockey teams, [name_u]Delaney[/name_u] joined the Student [name_m]Council[/name_m] to give the girls’ involved in sports more of a voice, after realising they were somewhat overlooked within the organisational elements of school business - having been elected by her teammates thanks to her patience: [name_u]Delaney[/name_u] can weather just about any long debate without completely zoning out. She credits this, jokingly, to having a dad in real estate who always practiced his pitches at the dinner table, her mom having to play the prospective buyer, and as an only child, [name_u]Delaney[/name_u] lacked someone to distract her in the meantime.

[name_m]Born[/name_m] prematurely, Delaney’s mother was incredibly unwell in the aftermath of labour, and it surprised people that her daughter wasn’t likewise impairedm. It took 7 months for Mrs Brouchard to completely recover from this, something that changed the fanily dynamic, although [name_u]Delaney[/name_u] feels this was for the better: her dad became less of a workaholic with the responsibility of caring for her, and - while no-one can deny his dedication to his career - it isn’t at the expense of his family; something she hopes to emulate.

Throughout her childhood, [name_u]Delaney[/name_u] was off school sick more than most other kids, thanks to having a weaker immune system - something that does flair up on occasion even now. This is why sports became such a haven for her, as it was a perfect environment to make friends and build her confidence, after feeling she missed out on things thanks to bouts of illness. It did leave a lingering insecurity in her though, namely about being a burden to those she’s closest to, and Tatum’s subsequent campaign to win back [name_u]Braeden[/name_u] was initially difficult for her because of this fear. They don’t have many interactions, in spite of Tatum’s continued interest in Delaney’s boyfriend, but really what is there to say or do? Having some dramaticised cold war about a non-issue isn’t Delaney’s style, as she feels there’s plenty more interesting things to focus on.

[CherryBomb50]

Warning for aforementioned pregnancy/birth complications.

[name_u]Romary[/name_u] [name_f]Marys[/name_f] [Lee] Brouchard (51) is Delaney’s mother, an agency photographer who’s often lightened her life with her works of photography. She has one younger sister, also a mother to a teenager. Although this teenager is not an only child technically, [name_f]Samantha[/name_f] [name_u]Lee[/name_u] is actually the half-sister to that teenager. From this, she has a connection with [name_f]Elaina[/name_f] and [name_f]Samantha[/name_f] in the family. She’s wanted a child for a long time but was hesitant doing so in her 20s, due to her sister being quite young when she had [name_f]Samantha[/name_f]. [name_u]Romary[/name_u] believes her sister was always a good mother but her sister is honest to her that she did feel unready at the time [name_f]Samantha[/name_f] was born. Still, she’s proud and happy to have her two children! [name_u]Romary[/name_u] herself was technically unready when [name_u]Delaney[/name_u] was born, but mainly for health reasons. She underestimated a lot of her pregnancy complications. [name_u]Romary[/name_u] would adopt if she ever wanted a second child, although she’s felt fulfilled where she is right now. She’d consider adopting a pet for sure however. [name_u]Romary[/name_u] is close with her daughter, living in a small but cutesy neighborhood, and she’s open and appreciative of [name_u]Delaney[/name_u] having a voice.

When [name_u]Romary[/name_u] was a kid, she felt she couldn’t even find her voice. She often feared relying on others for tough situations, which often made her feel strong that she was able to overcome difficulties on her own. However when she was pregnant, with the difficult labour and birth occurring prematurely, she felt she needed a lot of support. This was something she always felt increasingly more nervous to ask, until she realised she couldn’t hide, she could only seek. She is grateful for her husband on this, even in a way that she jokes is “corny” but her emotions are real when she gives gratitude for his humble and selfless support. [name_u]Romary[/name_u] loved netball as a child, something she’s happy [name_u]Delaney[/name_u] loves too, but [name_u]Delaney[/name_u] was just a natural at the sport, finding her own path, and [name_u]Romary[/name_u] doesn’t see [name_u]Delaney[/name_u] as a follower to her. She was overprotective on [name_u]Delaney[/name_u] shortly after her complete recovery because she started worrying about complications [name_u]Delaney[/name_u] could develop, even if she wasn’t born with said complications. [name_u]Romary[/name_u] always felt like this but it felt more apparent after her own complications healed. She knows [name_u]Delaney[/name_u] has a weaker immune system and has understood the likelihood of illnesses she had, why she considered the pandemic “Delaney’s worst nightmare”, but agrees [name_u]Delaney[/name_u] is a strong and passionate person, living life this way. While [name_u]Romary[/name_u] does get along with [name_u]Braeden[/name_u] and Estelle’s mother, she doesn’t get along with Tatum’s family and likes that [name_u]Delaney[/name_u] doesn’t care about [name_u]Tatum[/name_u]. Eventually they’re noticing [name_u]Tatum[/name_u] is getting tired and stopping, the ideal result after ignoring a bully like her. [name_u]Romary[/name_u] doesn’t hold anything against [name_u]Braeden[/name_u] himself for Tatum’s past although she can’t say the same about [name_u]Gusty[/name_u]. She doesn’t hate him, but she’s finding his theory that “Michael probably isn’t real” to be questionable. She knows [name_u]Gusty[/name_u] loves her niece [name_f]Samantha[/name_f] and that [name_u]Michael[/name_u] really is coming off as the new perfect “it guy”, but she doesn’t see enough evidence to believe he’s fake. Still, [name_u]Romary[/name_u] feels it’s not her place and also shares her daughter’s ways of not caring about relationship drama. She loves her husband and his side of the family, being the nicest and most peaceful people she knows, and likes to hike around good places with them to get photos for the agency.

[I_meme_it]

[name_f]Morven[/name_f] [name_f]Susannah[/name_f] Gaddis (29) is Romary’s niece - the daughter of her husbands’ sister - who’s been spending a lot of time with her recently given she’s expecting her first child: a baby boy - news only disclosed to the family recently! There was no grandiose gender reveal planned by [name_f]Morven[/name_f] and her partner (who uses they/he/it pronouns and has chosen to use the term ‘dad’), just a small get-together where they revealed this news to the gathered relatives in the form of some custom cupcakes with blue icing.

Unlike what some of her colleagues assumed, [name_f]Morven[/name_f] and her partner planned their conception. They’ve been together since the age of 19, meeting at a college party, and after buying their two bedroom apartment together, the time felt right to begin their family. Having always been obsessed with baby dolls and playing house, it’s not at all a surprise to Morvens’ parents that she’s now pregnant, but their excitement is always growing - rivaled only by her cousin [name_u]Delaney[/name_u], who can’t wait to meet her cousins’ son.

Although they’re not fully decided, [name_f]Morven[/name_f] and her partner are going to incorporate the Gaddis family’s Welsh routes into their baby’s name. It doesn’t matter to [name_f]Morven[/name_f] if their son has a Welsh first or middle name, but her dad moved to the States after meeting her mom, and so having him payed tribute to means a great deal to her.

Working as a writer for several animal charity magazines, Morvens’ actually worked with her aunt on a few occasions, with [name_u]Romary[/name_u] taking shots to promote the work and creatures being supported by the various non-profits she’s involved with. She has a rescue cat herself: [name_u]Jinx[/name_u], who’s a three-year-old ginger adopted by [name_f]Morven[/name_f] when she was only a kitten, and very much the first baby of the house in the eyes of her and her partner. When they’re out of the house, it’s almost always [name_u]Delaney[/name_u] who stops by to look after [name_u]Jinx[/name_u] in their absences, with her very much being the best human in the cats eyes after her owners.

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@I.have.no.idea
@SummerParadise
@ElisabethJulie
@TheDogLover
@lilac_elixirxx
@avenmaide

[olivelovesnames]

(i reffered to [name_u]Koa[/name_u] as a “he” only because i wanted to stick to one pronoun!)

[name_u]Koa[/name_u] [name_u]Dane[/name_u] Gaddis (29) is Morven’s partner and the parent of their unborn son. [name_u]Koa[/name_u] has decided to go by “dad” around his child because while he would love his children to understand that people can identify as something different than what they were born as, he also understands that it would be easier for his children to understand and he has always wanted to be a father.

[name_u]Koa[/name_u] and [name_f]Morven[/name_f] have been very in love since college, and they got married two years ago. [name_u]Koa[/name_u] loves Morven’s side of the family and he and [name_u]Delaney[/name_u] have a great relationship. He himself, well, his family isn’t as close to him. Once he came out as gender-fluid and pan-sexual, they didn’t come around to this idea very easily. He grew up with 3 other siblings and his two older siblings were part of the crew who did not like Koa’s homosexuality. They continued to refer to him by his dead-name. He has not talked to them or his parents since his wedding, when they unexpectedly showed up and threatened him and [name_f]Morven[/name_f]. His younger sister, who later came out as bisexual, is the only one who he still speaks to. She was also berated for being in the LGBTQ+ community, and she has also cut off communication. She is very excited for the birth of her nephew and even though both of their other siblings have children, she has decided to only treat [name_f]Morven[/name_f] and Koa’s child as her nibling.

[name_u]Koa[/name_u] loves [name_u]Jinx[/name_u] and hopes to get another cat soon, preferably a little gray kitten, since he already has some name ideas. As for his little boy, he is super excited to come up with names for the baby and the nursery is his pride and joy, seeing as he just finished it up and it looks…well. It looks fantastic! He is in the interior design business, so it makes sense that he was able to create a gorgeous baby room in the small townhouse. He and [name_f]Morven[/name_f] hope to have a bigger house someday, since [name_u]Koa[/name_u] would love to make it very farmhouse chic. [name_f]Morven[/name_f] doesn’t care about the home decoration so much as [name_u]Koa[/name_u], but she does like to help him. She usually leaves the design process to [name_u]Koa[/name_u] though, because he is very bossy and gets very micromanaging during his projects. He would love to make his own business someday, but he does really like his company now.

[SummerParadise]

Image by cookie_studio on Freepik

tw: mental illness, unsupportive family

Penelope Leah Gaddis (24) is Koa’s sister, the only one he is still in contact with. She was very shy as a child and throughout her teen years dealt with anorexia, social anxiety and OCD, partly because of all the pressures her parents put on her. She is now in recovery and has cut off contact with her family members other than Koa, which has been tough but has improved her mental health. Penny is passionate about dancing and teaches a ballet class for preteen girls; she also enjoys playing tennis and art. She is now open about being bisexual and has a girlfriend.

[I.have.no.idea]

[name_f]Callie[/name_f] [name_u]Austen[/name_u] De La [name_u]Cruz[/name_u] (7) is a dancer in Penelope’s class, [name_f]Callie[/name_f] is one of the youngest dancers in Penelope’s class but is quite advanced for her age and is hoping to be moved up a level. [name_f]Callie[/name_f] got to be in the dance studio’s production of the nutcracker and played [name_m]Fritz[/name_m] (Clara’s brother). Callie’s parents support all three of their children and were super proud of their daughter’s hard work and sent a recording of the ballet to all of their relatives . Luckily enough Callie’s grandma was in town for Hanukkah so she could she [name_f]Callie[/name_f] preforming live.Other than ballet [name_f]Callie[/name_f] enjoys [name_f]English[/name_f] which fits with her middle name, [name_f]Callie[/name_f] really like reading and has recently started reading graphic novels. [name_f]Callie[/name_f] and her two sisters are close in age and often share books, they are all reading the babysitters club graphic novels series and are watching the Netflix show too.

[name_f]Callie[/name_f] is very blunt but means well, she is very charming and has gotten the neighbors son head over heels which is awkward for one of Callie’s best friend is his brother. She isn’t interested in ballet but still went to the show to support [name_f]Callie[/name_f] and gave her a bouquet of daffodils from her fathers nursery.

[ElisabethJulie]

[name_f]Elara[/name_f] [name_u]Rose[/name_u] De La [name_u]Cruz[/name_u] (9) is Callie’s youngest older sibling.

[name_f]Elara[/name_f] has a personality as vibrant as her name. While not particularly drawn to dancing like her younger sister [name_f]Callie[/name_f], [name_f]Elara[/name_f] has interests that make her stand out. She’s known for her warmth and kindness, making friends easily in school and the neighbourhood.

[name_f]Elara[/name_f] discovered her love for art early on. Whether sketching, painting, or working on craft projects, she finds joy in expressing herself creatively. Her room is adorned with colourful drawings and handmade decorations, showcasing her artistic flair.

While [name_f]Callie[/name_f] is passionate about ballet, [name_f]Elara[/name_f] has a deep love for literature and films. She’s an avid reader, often engrossed in novels of various genres. [name_f]Elara[/name_f], along with her sisters, shares a fascination with graphic novels and has an ever-growing collection.

Her love for storytelling extends to movies, and she’s the go-to person for family movie nights. [name_f]Elara[/name_f] enjoys a good mix of animated adventures, family dramas, and, occasionally, classic films recommended by her parents.

[name_f]Elara[/name_f] has a keen interest in nature, a trait she shares with her family. While her father owns a nursery, Elara’s fascination goes beyond plants. She enjoys going on nature walks, collecting leaves, and learning about different species. Her curiosity about the natural world often leads to exciting family outings.

Elara’s empathetic nature makes her a natural caregiver. She’s the first to console her sisters when they face challenges and is often seen organizing small surprises to brighten their days. Her compassionate personality extends to her friendships, making her a beloved friend among her peers.

In addition to her artistic and nature-related pursuits, [name_f]Elara[/name_f] has a knack for technology. She’s the family’s go-to tech support, helping her parents and sisters navigate gadgets and devices. [name_f]Elara[/name_f] often explores coding and digital art in her free time, showcasing a well-rounded set of interests.

Despite their differences, [name_f]Elara[/name_f], [name_f]Callie[/name_f], and their youngest sister share a strong bond. They frequently exchange books, watch movies together, and engage in collaborative art projects. [name_f]Elara[/name_f] plays the role of a supportive and encouraging older sister, always ready to share her knowledge and experiences.

[kitkatcookie]

[name_m]Thiago[/name_m] " [name_m]Teo[/name_m] " [name_u]Luca[/name_u] De La [name_u]Cruz[/name_u] (11) is the oldest of the siblings and only boy, not that it ever bothers him. Although dance doesn’t appeal to [name_m]Teo[/name_m] the same way it does [name_f]Callie[/name_f], nor is he avid about art like [name_f]Elara[/name_f], he’s creative in his own way: specifically writing. [name_m]Teo[/name_m] has a natural passion for storytelling, and he’d often make up tales for his sisters when they were going on family trips [although ghost stories were policed by their dad to make sure sleep wasn’t ruined by overactive imaginations spurred on by Teo].

While [name_m]Teo[/name_m] considers it a responsibility of his to help his sisters should they ask, he doesn’t meddle in their lives or become too protective, a sentiment taught to him by his mom. She’s the exact opposite of [name_m]Teo[/name_m] - being the only girl of a trio sibset - and, as the youngest, faced a lot of coddling, which drove her absolutely mad. Although she’s never questioned her love for Teo’s uncles, it’s important her children don’t inherit this dynamic, something her son’s managed to avoid.

Something that being the oldest has also meant Teo’s faced more ‘grown up’ scenarios first, and he does wish he had an older sibling sometimes to lean on in these moments. Recently he’s developed a crush on a classmate but this absolutely isn’t something he’s divulged to anyone [aside from his best friend]. Embarassing himself in front of his classmates aside, [name_m]Teo[/name_m] doesn’t want his business to become family gossip, as his nana is a fiend for trying to set up various family members and he doesn’t want to become her newest cupid target.

[MissMorland]

[name_f]Aveline[/name_f] " Vel " [name_u]Felice[/name_u] [name_u]Laramie[/name_u] (11) is Teo’s classmate and crush. She likes him well enough but doesn’t believe she has a crush on him, although she definitely does. [name_m]Teo[/name_m] often tells stories at recess and a lot of his classmates sit around and listen. Vel prefers to play soccer or tag during recess but lately she’s been listening to his stories more. Her best friend teases her about having a crush on [name_m]Teo[/name_m] but Vel vehemently denies it, saying she just likes his stories.

[name_f]Aveline[/name_f] is the youngest of six children. She’s really close to her eldest sibling, who’s 22, because they share a love of the outdoors and sports. Their favorite sport is basketball and they often FaceTime each other when watching a game. Aveline’s mom works from home and her dad is a real estate agent. [name_f]Aveline[/name_f] and her two siblings who are still living at home often have to listen to his pitches over dinner which gets on their nerves sometimes but they love him anyway.

[name_f]Aveline[/name_f] and her best friend are currently building a fort in Aveline’s backyard which is overrun by trees. They like having a little place all to themselves although one of Aveline’s brothers loves to try and scare them and take over the fort. Something that Vel is looking forward to is a ski trip with her mom and sisters. She’s never been skiing and can’t wait to learn.

[ElisabethJulie]

[name_u]Elias[/name_u] ‘Eli’ [name_m]Matteo[/name_m] [name_u]Laramie[/name_u] (22) is Aveline’s older brother and the oldest of the six [name_u]Laramie[/name_u] siblings.

[name_u]Eli[/name_u] is a charismatic and outgoing individual, known for his adventurous spirit and infectious enthusiasm. Growing up in a large family, he has developed a strong sense of responsibility and protective instincts towards his younger siblings, particularly Vel.

[name_u]Eli[/name_u] shares a profound love for the outdoors and sports with Vel. Their favourite bonding activity is playing basketball, a sport that has become a significant part of their shared experiences. They often engage in friendly competitions and passionately follow basketball games together.

As the eldest sibling, [name_u]Eli[/name_u] has taken on the role of a mentor and protector for [name_f]Aveline[/name_f]. Their close relationship extends beyond shared hobbies; he’s someone she looks up to for guidance and support. Whether it’s helping her with school projects or offering advice on friendships, [name_u]Eli[/name_u] is always there for Vel.

Eli’s enthusiasm for basketball is contagious. He not only plays the sport with great skill but also encourages Vel to develop her skills and passion for the game. They often spend weekends shooting hoops in the backyard or watching NBA games together.

Eli’s protective instincts kick in whenever [name_f]Aveline[/name_f] faces challenges, especially as she navigates the complexities of school and friendships. He’s the reliable older brother who offers a listening ear and provides guidance when needed. Vel often turns to [name_u]Eli[/name_u] for support and comfort.

[name_u]Eli[/name_u] is pursuing a degree in environmental science, aligning with his passion for nature. He envisions a career that allows him to make a positive impact on the environment. His commitment to sustainable living and conservation has inspired [name_f]Aveline[/name_f] to develop a deep appreciation for the world around her.

While [name_u]Eli[/name_u] appreciates the outdoors, he’s also tech-savvy and introduces [name_f]Aveline[/name_f] to modern influences. He shares interesting documentaries and educational videos with her, broadening her perspective on various topics.

Family gatherings, often centred around dinner, become lively when [name_u]Eli[/name_u] is around. He brings a sense of humour and warmth to the family, making gatherings a time for laughter and sharing stories. Despite the age gap between him and his younger siblings, [name_u]Eli[/name_u] finds ways to connect with each of them.

[TheDogLover]

Brody Mason Laramie (20) is the younger brother of Eli and older brother to Vel. He is the second oldest sibling.

Brody loves the outdoors and sports. He has a good relationship with Eli and Vel but is stronger with his twin (gender doesn’t matter). His dream is to be an MLB star.

He has a fiance and unborn twin boys and a 1-year-old daughter.

[kitkatcookie]

Behati Santana Laramie (20) is Brody’s twin sister and the third born sibling technically, thanks to being his junior by twenty-six minutes. This actually meant that Brody was technically born in the morning, while Behati arrived early afternoon, and she’s generally considered the more laid back of the pair, perhaps as a product of knowing she came second. Her attitude is why Behati’s aware of Vel’s crush on her classmate, Teo, and she’s been gently nudging her little sister in the direction of coming forwards about her feelings [albeit without any intense pressure or insistence].

The positive of this has been popularity: Behati naturally charms others with how approachable and relaxed she is, not having any inclination to press matters and taking people as they come at their own pace. She’s done her best consistently to ignore the pressures being one of six kids can subsequently incur, and for the most part its paid off, with Behati seldom wavering in her own interests for those her siblings prefer.

In contrast to her twin, Behati jokes about seeming almost disorganised. She’s currently studying music at university - specialising in electronic and synth - where she’s completely content as a single woman, having no plans on settling to parenthood for at least six more years. It’s not that Behati disapproves of her brother’s steps in life, but settling down to the degree Brody has anytime soon would terrify her, as the pressures of parenting aren’t anything she wants to experience soon. Her niece is absolutely the light of her world though, and Behati loves spoiling her whenever possible, always being the first to offer to babysit should Brody need a moment of calm with his fiancé need a break.

[CherryBomb50]

Milano Charles Laramie (19) is the next eldest after Brody and Behati, a non-binary child who was ironically not planned. Their parents were more than eager to keep them since they knew they wanted a bigger family with more children anyway. It also gave a nice closeness between Milano and the twins, being just one year apart. Their family have always supported Milano’s identity as non-binary and they don’t believe in limiting how many genders there truly is. Milano is okay with not knowing how many there are on the spectrum. They did have a lot of awkwardness with being part of the “kids” for a while, always wanting to sit at the adult table during special family dinners. As an adult, they’re much more responsible, doing a lot of the cooking for the family, although not much of a cleaner. Milano is currently studying culinary arts at university and likes to do archery and bowling in their spare time.

Milano is closer with Behati on their own love life. Milano is also single although their best guy friend bromances with them, although neither have any attraction and never will. In terms of Brody’s engagement and children, they’ve supported Brody’s fiancée and was surprised by how mature she was. By no means was she as mature as someone twice her age but she’s the youngest of much older and mature cousins, so it’s rubbed off on her mentality a lot. Milano laughs over whether Vel would ever grow up very mature, although they know these older siblings are very different and that Milano can not imagine their little 7-year-old sister growing up and being a mother. Milano likes taking pride in being the best cook of the house out of the siblings but knows the others are good with helping out and they all have a place and role. Milano hopes to stay close no matter how their lives grow and change in their years because they have a true sibling bond nonetheless, even if 6 is clearly enough.

[I.have.no.idea]

[name_u]Dakota[/name_u] [name_f]Giselle[/name_f] [name_m]Larami[/name_m] (13) is Vel, [name_u]Eli[/name_u], and Brody’s sister. She is the second youngest sibling after [name_u]Val[/name_u] which means the two share a room. [name_m]Even[/name_m] though Vel sometimes gets on Dakota’s nerves they still get along really well and spend time together, they both have a very active lifestyle, though instead of basketball she prefers tennis. For [name_u]Christmas[/name_u] [name_u]Dakota[/name_u] got tickets to the US open which she is ecstatic about, it’s been her dream to go ever since she was small.

Recently [name_u]Dakota[/name_u] has been diagnosed with OCD which has been hard on her, she has started going to therapist to help manage it. This has been really helpful for herself. Dakota’s best friend has been super supportive this whole time and has always had Dakotas back. Recently she has been hanging out with the “popular “ girls who are sorta mean. [name_u]Dakota[/name_u] doesn’t want to lose her best friend but doesn’t want to hang out with the clique.

[kitkatcookie]

[name_f]Magdalena[/name_f] " [name_f]Lena[/name_f] " [name_u]Florence[/name_u] Larascoe is [name_u]Dakota[/name_u], [name_u]Eli[/name_u], [name_f]Behati[/name_f], [name_u]Milano[/name_u] and Vel’s niece, being the daughter of [name_u]Brody[/name_u] and his fiancé. Being the only grandchild [currently] means everyone in the family absolutely dotes upon [name_f]Lena[/name_f], spoiling her with attention and games, however the arrival of her twin brothers is unlikely to change this status quo, as it’s obvious Lena’s paternal family are being mindful of not letting her feel pushed out once the boy’s arrive in 2024.

The adaptation of her mom and dad to parenthood hasn’t been without its ups and downs, but their dedication to [name_f]Lena[/name_f] is undeniable and unshakeable [not a surprise to anyone given their natures]. [name_m]Even[/name_m] if [name_f]Lena[/name_f] hadn’t been born when they were just nineteen, no-one doubts her parents wouldn’t have remained together, as their bond’s so tight and they have excellent communication. Her surname’s a union of both her parents - [name_u]Laramie[/name_u] and Briscoe - which was a choice [name_u]Brody[/name_u] insisted on to ensure her mom is likewise front and centre when Lena’s introduced to new people.

[moonwriteen]

[name_f]Janelle[/name_f] [name_u]Sasha[/name_u] Briscoe [ 20 ] is [name_f]Lena[/name_f] 's mother , [name_u]Brody[/name_u] 's fiance and the expectant mother of twin boys . She grew up an only child so feeling like a part of [name_u]Brody[/name_u] 's one was a blessing for her. [name_f]Janelle[/name_f] 's emotionally unavailable father , for whom only his career as a policeman and the county sheriff’s right hand was of any importance , is someone who hasn’t even bothered to meet [name_f]Lena[/name_f] and only took [name_f]Janelle[/name_f] down the aisle to look good in front of the community , but has never been accepting of any of [name_f]Janelle[/name_f] 's boyfriends and has told her many times that for him it is a disappointed that [name_f]Janelle[/name_f] hasn’t pursued a career. [name_f]Janelle[/name_f] has trained swimming since she was 7 years old and also did many other sporty activities, including camping , which she still loves to his day and plans to continue doing when recovering from postpartum. [name_f]Janelle[/name_f] knows that her dad hoped for her to be an Olympic swimmer at best , policewoman at mid-tier and an army enlistee at worst - but certainly not a mom of 3 by the age of 21. This is hard for [name_f]Janelle[/name_f] 's father to accept , but not because he is a narcissist , rather, because he knows how hard it is for [name_f]Janelle[/name_f] jumping from one customer service job to another and while he is able to provide financial support, he is afraid to truly connect with his grandchildren so as not to have a broken heart in case when they have to live in poverty. [name_f]Janelle[/name_f] 's mother has stayed relatively involved in her life and [name_f]Janelle[/name_f] even came down to her state so she could see the baby when [name_f]Lena[/name_f] was a newborn. She herself works as an epidemiologist so in recent years she has had her hands full , therefore being happy for [name_f]Janelle[/name_f] that she is not throwing herself straight into a demanding career and has the support of her growing family. [name_f]Janelle[/name_f] 's mother also recommended a photographer for [name_f]Janelle[/name_f] who did her maternity shoot -it being the daughter of [name_f]Janelle[/name_f] 's maternal aunt who had been estranged from her due to the aunt isolating herself and her daughter following her husband’s death. However, when [name_f]Janelle[/name_f] 's cousin found a passion in photography , found a supportive girlfriend , [name_u]Penny[/name_u] and encouraged her mother to go to therapy , things have been going better for them.

[name_f]Janelle[/name_f] 's maternity shoot was winter themed - something that really encompasses [name_f]Janelle[/name_f] ‘s love for nature and her desire to make her sons’ names somewhat winter-themed. It was important for her to have the maternity shoot only with herself in the picture, so that she can really highlight her femininity. [name_u]Brody[/name_u] joked that he doesn’t consider himself needed in the photoshoot, given the fact he is not particularly photogenic. [name_u]Brody[/name_u] always makes sure to tell [name_f]Janelle[/name_f] that she is beautiful , something that she needs to hear after being teased for her red hair in school . [name_u]Brody[/name_u] is confident that he, [name_f]Janelle[/name_f] , [name_f]Lena[/name_f] and the boys have the potential to grow together as a family regardless of what [name_f]Janelle[/name_f] 's father says and that they will manage financially with the support of the [name_u]Laramie[/name_u] family.

[SummerParadise]

Image by marymarkevich on Freepik

tw: parental death
[name_f]Rowena[/name_f] [name_f]Jasmine[/name_f] Kovac (25) is Janelle’s cousin and Penny’s girlfriend. Due to her father’s death and her mom isolating her from others, she struggles to open up to others and can come off as cold. But she is very passionate and caring, and with therapy and Penny’s support, she is learning to express her emotions more. She has an observant eye which makes her a good photographer, and she also enjoys fashion and crime shows.

[CherryBomb50]

Warning for aforementioned grief/parental death.

[name_m]Wiliam[/name_m] [name_m]Mihael[/name_m] Kovac (27) is Rowena’s brother and Janelle’s cousin, being the middle of three Kovacs. He jokes that his first and middle name look “incomplete”, something people tell him a lot, but no that’s just within his family cultures. He’s extremely close with the Kovac paternal family who he loves talking to and honouring his father. He doesn’t like to discuss the matters in which his father died as this is the most painful thing to come to terms with but sometimes he feels forced to say it to avoid other people’s assumptions and speculation. He feels bad about the isolation that the cousins had on [name_f]Janelle[/name_f] given the passing of their father, but [name_m]Wiliam[/name_m] never put anyone at fault and understood his mother. He doesn’t want his mother’s isolation to rub off on him or his siblings, but he’s willing to help her through this rather than clash with her over it. The Kovac siblings are all older than [name_f]Janelle[/name_f] so they tend to be very mature and this rubs off on [name_f]Janelle[/name_f] herself. That and the fact that her father’s pressures have made it difficult to find her path in life. [name_m]Wiliam[/name_m] feels lucky to have a supportive family who helped him in his dreams of videography and Rowena’s in photography. Sometimes the Kovac siblings aren’t very close because they tend to want alone time more often than usual, but are grateful that nobody is hateful enough to tear up the family.

His best friend is [name_u]Koa[/name_u] Gaddis, a gender fluid father-to-be, currently using “he” at the moment but fluctuating from time to time. [name_m]Wiliam[/name_m] respects how much he’s gone through, with only one sibling [name_f]Penelope[/name_f] being there for him while the others cut him out on their bigoted beliefs. [name_f]Penelope[/name_f], affectionately called [name_u]Penny[/name_u] by [name_f]Rowena[/name_f], is proudly bisexual and she and [name_f]Rowena[/name_f] are dating. [name_m]Wiliam[/name_m] supports the pair, alongside supporting [name_u]Brody[/name_u] and [name_f]Janelle[/name_f] together despite their challenges raising 1, soon to be 3, children. [name_m]Wiliam[/name_m] loves winter like [name_f]Janelle[/name_f] and currently works at the ice rink when he’s not doing videography. He’s grown up enjoying hockey and plays it as well as watching the NHL on TV. [name_m]Wiliam[/name_m] doesn’t gamble but often makes winner picks when watching. The eldest Kovac is very smart and an amazing role model, something [name_m]Wiliam[/name_m], [name_f]Rowena[/name_f], and [name_f]Janelle[/name_f] admire, and the eldest loves seeing [name_f]Lena[/name_f] around. While [name_m]Wiliam[/name_m] hasn’t talked to the Laramies as much, he respects them and knows they perceive his family in a good light.

Koa was created by @olivelovesnames.

Penelope was created by @SummerParadise.

[kitkatcookie]

cw: parental death / boundary overstepping

[name_f]Lenore[/name_f] [name_f]Cvita[/name_f] Kovac (30) is the eldest of the trio and generally the person who attempts to ease the fears of their mother when her anxiety rears once more. A very private person, [name_f]Lenore[/name_f] prefers leading a solitary life, with the primary exception being the necessary outings to benefit her daughter, who’s just turned two, and her mom attends toddler gymnastics classes with her, to help promote her making friendships and discovering new interests. She’s considered less cool than her sister [name_f]Rowena[/name_f], however aloofness is quite unanimous with [name_f]Lenore[/name_f], and she admits motherhood softens people’s views of her reserved manner, as prior to giving birth she was seen as a workaholic who wasn’t very approachable.

The biggest issue in Lenore’s life is usually the father of her only child. Now in a new relationship, he lives with his pregnant fiancé and her son from a prior marriage, which doesn’t bother Lenore; what aggravates her is how her ex acts as if she doesn’t exist when their daughter is with him, going as far as to not correct a colleague who assumed his fiancé was the birth mother of [name_f]Lenore[/name_f] and he’s child. For how he’s never someone she wants to be with romantically, [name_f]Lenore[/name_f] has never denied him access or pretended he isn’t an involved dad, so this infuriated her greatly, and she made her feelings clear by informing his co-worker of the truth about the family dynamic.

It was lack of understanding that led to [name_f]Lenore[/name_f] and her ex going their separate ways in the first place. He always seemed to presume he could pressure her into becoming an extrovert like himself, and became aggravated when [name_f]Lenore[/name_f] refused to go out with him constantly, even after she explained her discomfort. The fact she’s a creative director for a fashion magazine - having modelled for a while in her youth - was his ‘proof’ [name_f]Lenore[/name_f] was ‘just being melodramatic’, and when he continued with this, she chose to end things between them. [name_m]Even[/name_m] being with someone who’s likewise gregarious doesn’t seem to have healed the chip on his shoulder. It feels now that his antics are a petty means of punishing [name_f]Lenore[/name_f] for breaking things off while pregnant, however she’s held firm through this passive aggression.