When I first played the Grunts I played Buck that way too. In fact, I made a sim just for him. Andrew. They had a three bolt relationship and 6 kids. Four that, through the glory that is boolprop and the tombstone of Life and Death, were their own and two that were adopted. Buck and Andrew had to be one of the most loving couples in my game. They were constantly flirting, hugging, kissing, congratulating each other. They were absolutely, totally, in love. I miss them and their constant flirting.
Yeah, you gotta love Ripp. He really deserved better then abused and neglected middle child. He was a lousy romance sim though. He was doing better for me as a family sim.
Great start to your story and I can't wait for more!
No, really, I can't wait! :)