"Origin must be running"

So I installed the base game and all the expansions one-by-one, like the guide says. Though I keep getting the "Origin must be running"
I even reinstalled the game and expansions and tried it again, to no avail, tried installing just the ultimate fix (including in the city living expansion) it's still giving me this error.

I should also mention I don't have Origin installed. What should I do to fix this?

I should point out that the game works fine before installing any expansion packs.

Same here. Would you like me to direct you to mine that has slightly more detail?