Saturday Morning, October 29, 1988
The streets of Brooklyn buzzed with weekend energy as Martha Williams led her sons, Alex and Duke, on a much-needed outing. Though neither of them attended school—both having passed their equivalency exams early—their schedules were still packed. Duke had become a key figure at Star Horizon, working closely with their parents, while Alex poured his energy into co-founding Blue Star Interactive.
For Martha, today was a rare chance to spend quality time with her boys outside of work. The plan was simple: groceries, clothes shopping for the two quickly-growing young men, and maybe a nice lunch to wrap it up.
Their first stop was the local grocery store. Martha grabbed a cart as they entered, glancing at her sons.
"Alright, Duke, you're on produce duty," she said with a smile. "Alex, stick with me and make sure we don't forget anything."
"Let's just not overdo it on the vegetables," Alex joked.
Duke chuckled as he headed toward the produce section. At 16, he'd grown into his role at Star Horizon with surprising maturity, balancing long hours with his own ambitions.
Meanwhile, Martha and Alex made their way down the aisles.
"So, how's Blue Star coming along?" Martha asked as Alex grabbed a box of cereal.
"Busy," Alex said. "We've got Mortal Kombat coming out soon, and I'm working on the promo. Plus, SimCity is just around the corner, so everyone's scrambling to make sure it's perfect."
Martha smiled proudly. "It sounds like you're doing great. But don't forget to take care of yourself, okay?"
"I will," Alex said, though his tone made it clear he was already thinking about his next task.
Duke returned with a basket of fruits and vegetables, adding them to the cart. "Mom, are we good? Because I think Alex is already planning his next meeting," he teased.
"Very funny," Alex shot back.
" Alright, you two let's continue shopping. We need to stock up for the next two months. So, let's speed up I really want to pick up some new clothes for you two. "
The trio continued their shopping expedition, filling the cart with essentials and a few indulgences.
Grocery List:
* Produce: Apples, bananas, oranges, grapes, carrots, celery, lettuce, tomatoes, potatoes, onions
* Dairy: Milk, eggs, cheese, butter
* Meat: Chicken breasts, ground beef, bacon
* Pantry Staples: Rice, pasta, cereal (Corn Flakes, Rice Krispies), flour, sugar, oil, canned goods (soup, beans, tuna)
* Snacks: Chips (Doritos, Lays), cookies (Oreo, Chips Ahoy!), popcorn, nuts and raisins, Marathon chocolate bars, chocolate chip cookies
* Drinks: Coca-Cola, Sprite, juice boxes
Estimated Costs:
* Produce: $50-$75
* Dairy: $30-$40
* Meat: $50-$70
* Pantry Staples: $40-$50
* Snacks: $30-$40
* Drinks: $20-$30
Total: Approximately $268
As they navigated the aisles, Martha couldn't help but reminisce about simpler times. "Remember when we used to come here just for fun, Alex?"
Alex chuckled. "Yeah, those were the days. We wouldn't be able to fill two cartridges with two months worth of food, Mom. As we stare at the aisle section decided what we needed and we all want to buy but couldn't.
Duke chimed in, " Well, I guess we need to thank you, Alex. Since we no longer need to worry about daily living expenses. " he said. While throwing in another bug of rice into the second cart. With Star Horizon currently being unprofitable and Duke own search engine still being in the works, besides the several investment and stock treading done by their now small business. Blue Star Interactive was currently the only profitable venture right now all things consider, hence Duke comment isn't wrong
With the grocery shopping done, Martha Williams ushered her two sons toward the car, balancing the paper bags with ease. The late October air carried the crisp scent of fallen leaves, and the sky was a canvas of muted grays, a reminder that winter was just around the corner.
After packing the groceries into the trunk with practiced efficiency, Martha turned to her sons, her deep hazel eyes shimmering with authority and warmth. "Alright, boys. Next stop is Sears. You've both outgrown everything except your socks," she said, closing the trunk with a definitive thud.
The boys exchanged glances, knowing there was no room for debate.
Inside Sears, the store was bustling with activity. Martha led the way, her commanding presence turning heads as she navigated the aisles. Her ebony skin glowed under the store's fluorescent lights, and her long, jet-black hair cascaded down her back, complementing the deep maroon sweater dress she wore. A thick belt cinched her waist, and knee-high leather boots completed the look—a picture of grace and practicality.
"Let's start with you, Duke," she said, her tone brooking no argument as she pulled a heavy, navy-blue wool coat off the rack. "Try this on."
Duke, tall and composed at 16, slipped into the coat without protest. His demeanor was as cool as the autumn air outside, his straight, dark hair falling over his shoulders as he turned to the mirror. The coat fit him perfectly, accentuating his broadening shoulders and long frame.
"You look sharp," Martha said with a nod, stepping back to assess the fit.
"Sharp enough to cut through steel," Duke quipped, his voice smooth and dry, a faint smirk playing on his lips. He turned to Alex, his younger brother. "Unlike you, who'll probably end up in something plaid."
Alex, shorter and still filling out at 13, shot him a glare. "At least I won't look like I'm running for office."
Martha silenced them with a single raised eyebrow, the universal language of a mother not in the mood for squabbling. "Alex, your turn. Let's find you something warm that doesn't look like you've rolled out of bed."
Alex and Duke both shook their heads at the same honestly when it came to clothes shopping, their mother seems to become a completely different person. Well it was the same for their two older sisters too, it was honestly a blessing they weren't here as well.
As it would likely take them even longer to leave the clothe store, still it wasn't that bad since the whole family was still used to. Being quiet modest in their spending habits due to how they all grow up.
She sifted through the racks, her practiced hands pulling out a thick, forest-green cable-knit sweater and a pair of straight-cut jeans. "This should do for now," she said, passing them to Alex.
Alex took the clothes with a groan but obediently tried them on. The sweater's earthy tone complimented his golden-hazel eyes and light brown complexion, and the jeans were a perfect fit. He emerged from the dressing room, looking far less disheveled than usual.
Martha gave him an approving nod. "Much better. See? Modesty and comfort aren't your enemies."
As they worked their way through the store, Martha occasionally paused to ask for her sons' opinions on certain items. She picked out a soft gray cardigan and a pair of dark slacks for herself, knowing they would be practical for the colder months ahead. Her thoughts wandered briefly to her daughters, Jennifer and Ashley, who were studying abroad with Ji-woo, who was now like a member of the family. She made a mental note to send them a care package soon, filled with warm clothes and reminders of home.
"Mom," Duke's calm voice interrupted her thoughts. "We still need something for Dad, don't we?"
Martha smiled at her eldest son, appreciating his attentiveness. "Good point. Let's grab him a couple of sweaters and maybe a new scarf." She picked out a deep burgundy sweater and a charcoal scarf, knowing they would suit her husband's darker complexion and understated style.
By the time they left Sears, their arms were loaded with bags. Martha insisted they stop by a smaller boutique downtown for a few more items, her sharp eye catching details that the department store couldn't provide.
At the boutique, Martha found a sleek black peacoat for Duke and a pair of sturdy boots to match. For Alex, she chose a navy sweater with subtle geometric patterns and a matching scarf. She even picked out a soft wool shawl for herself, its intricate embroidery a nod to her African roots.
"You boys are set for winter now," she said as they piled into the car. "No excuses about being cold."
Lunch Break
After finishing their shopping, the trio stopped at a nearby diner for lunch.
"I have to say," Duke began as he dug into his pancake, "this was a good idea. It's nice to just take a break. From work and everything, just the three of us."
"Yeah," Alex agreed. "Things have been crazy lately. It's good to just... slow down for a bit." He said, with a huge grin on his face us he threw
Martha looked at both of her sons, her heart swelling with pride. "You're both working so hard. I just want you to know how proud I am of you."
Duke smiled. "We couldn't do it without you and Dad. You've both been there for us every step of the way."
"And don't forget the groceries," Alex added with a grin. "Can't change the world on an empty stomach."
They all laughed, enjoying the moment.
Heading Home
By the time they returned home, the car was packed with groceries and new clothes. Alex and Duke helped their mom carry everything inside, their banter continuing as they unloaded.
"Thanks for today, Mom," Duke said as they finished.
"Yeah, thanks," Alex echoed. "It's been a while since we last want out just the three of us, together like this. " His smile widening, as spoke these words from the very bottom of his heart.
Martha hugged them both tightly. "I'm so proud of you two. Don't ever forget that."
It can be said Alex, has truly lived through several different lives through the memories of certain individuals. Alex fully understood the preciousness of life and cherishing those you love. Life is and always will be unexpected never knowing how much time you and those around have together. Weather anyone one of you live to old age and die peaceful of natural cause, isn't a guarantee. Ant it doesn't matter weather one is poor or well of in life, we will all end up in the grave eventually.
So, Alex truly won't waste whatever ever time he and those around him. He'll make the most of the time his spends, the last thing Alex, wanted is to have regrets about how he spent the time he has.
As the day wound down, the Williams household was filled with warmth and laughter—a reminder that, no matter how busy life got, family always came first.
Home Sweet Home
After a long drive back to their condo in Brownsville, the three pulled into the driveway of their old two-story house. The faded red paint of the house stood out against the surrounding buildings, a constant reminder of their humble beginnings. The Toyota Land Cruiser's engine purred to a stop, and the three of them climbed out, stretching after the trip.
"Alright, boys," Martha said, "let's get everything inside before it gets too late."
Duke opened the trunk, revealing the bags of clothes and groceries they had purchased. He handed Alex a couple of smaller bags while hefting a larger one himself.
"Don't just stand there," he teased. "You're the mastermind behind all this wealth. You can carry some bags too."
Alex rolled his eyes but smirked. "Yeah, yeah. Just don't drop anything. I don't want to have to replace stuff already."
Martha laughed, taking a smaller bag herself. "Let's focus on getting everything in before you two start arguing."
Inside the house. The three worked together to unload the car. The entryway quickly filled with shopping bags as they moved the items into their proper places. While Alex unpacked the groceries, Duke carried a bag of clothes over to Martha.
"Here," he said, handing it to her. "This is for you—new pair of earrings and a full set of matching necklace and bracelets we picked out together."
Martha raised an eyebrow. "For me? I told you this trip was mainly for the two of you, not me."
Duke shrugged. "Come on, Mom. You never spend anything on want yourself really want. It's about time you got something nice, too."
Alex chimed in from the kitchen, "Yeah, you deserve it, Mom. Besides, we're not exactly strapped for cash anymore."
Martha hesitated, looking at the bag in her hands. She couldn't help but remember the years they had spent barely scraping by, rationing every dollar to make ends meet. Yet, here they were, in a completely different reality.
Duke noticed her pause and added, "Mom, it's been almost a year since we had to be careful about every penny. Alex helped us out of that life. You don't have to feel guilty anymore."
Martha smiled softly. "You're right, Duke. It's just… it's hard to let go of old habits. But thank you. Both of you."
"It's the least we could do," Alex said, stepping into the living room with a grin. "We're a team, remember?"
As the three settled into their usual routine, Alex couldn't help but feel a swell of pride. It had been ten months since he had started putting his future knowledge to work. The memories he'd received from the Apuls after his near-fatal accident had been life-changing. Not only had it strengthened his mind, removing his autism and giving him the edge he needed to turn his and his families lives around.
Blue Star Interactive was still in it's early stages but was currently thriving, their investments were multiplying, and the sale of his book Jurassic Park to Universal Pictures had been a massive windfall. His carefully laid plans had pulled them out of poverty and into a life of comfort.
Yet, despite their newfound wealth—now totaling nearly $5.9 million thanks to his investment inside through Noir Trending, with $979,804 coming directly from Blue Star Interactive—and not forgetting the 1,2 million from Jurassic Park. Along with his writer and producer tags for shows like Friends and others his written for Fire Foxx Productions.
Alex had know plans to tell anyone about this, he would keep this secret close to his chest. No one, not even his family, would know about the memories of the future he now carried. Not that he didn't want to, or mistrust them it was just better to keep this secret just with him.
He accepted the responsibility of using this knowledge to protect and uplift his family and friends. They deserved a better life, and he was determined to give it to them without ever revealing the source of his insight.
Later that afternoon, as the three gathered in the living room, Martha placed the new coat Alex and Duke had picked out for her on the back of her chair.
"You know," she said, looking at her sons, "I never imagined we'd be here. I'm so proud of you both. You've worked so hard, and you've grown into such responsible young men."
Alex and Duke exchanged a glance, both a little embarrassed by the praise but also deeply grateful.
"It's a team effort," Alex said, his voice steady. "We've got a long way to go, but we're in this together."
"And no more faded red houses, right?" Duke joked, gesturing to their surroundings.
Martha laughed. "One step at a time, my sweet little boy. And if the two of you must know your father and I have already talked about this in great detail. And already made plans but, there no rash."