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The penthouse glowed with quiet Christmas light.
White strands traced the windows, soft and warm against the winter-dark skyline. The tree stood tall in the corner of the living room, red, silver and gold ornaments catching the light as though they were holding their breath. The air smelled of pine and sugar, something sweet baking in the oven that Lena had already forgotten she’d put there until the oven timer went off and yet somehow it made her remember.
Not the argument itself, those had blurred together over time but the instant when she realised she didn’t have the energy to fight anymore.
The kitchen lights had been too bright that night, reflecting off marble and steel, turning everything sharp. Kara stood across from her, hands braced on the counter, shoulders tense in that way Lena knew meant she was holding something back.
It had started small. It always did.
A forgotten errand. A miscommunication. A tone.
Lena couldn’t even remember which of them had raised their voice first only the familiar ache settling in her chest as the conversation slid sideways.
“You didn’t tell me.” Kara had said, frustration threading her voice. “I could have helped.”
“I didn’t need help.” Lena had snapped, instantly regretting the edge in her tone.
“That’s not what I meant.”
“It never is.” Lena said bitterly. “But it always ends the same.”
Kara went quiet. That was worse.
From down the hall came the soft sounds of their children. Micah laughing, Jade babbling, the older girls sighing in their rooms as they listen to another fight break out before the sound of their doors closing echoes around the house.
Lena pressed her palms into the counter, grounding herself. “I’m exhausted.” she said, voice shaking despite her effort to keep it steady. “I feel like I’m constantly bracing for the next thing I do wrong.”
“That’s not how I see you.” Kara said quickly.
“But it’s how I feel.” Lena shot back. “And feelings matter too, Kara.”
Silence stretched.
Kara looked at her like she was searching for something. The woman she’d married, maybe.
The woman Lena wasn’t sure she could be anymore.
“You don’t listen to me.” Kara said finally. “Not really. And I don’t know how to keep fighting for us if we’re both just… hurting each other.”
Something inside Lena cracked. “We’ve tried everything and yet we still end up here, Kara.”
Kara didn’t argue and that hurt more than any rebuttal.
“I can’t keep doing this.” Lena whispered, the words tumbling out before she could stop them. “I can’t keep feeling like love is a battlefield.”
Kara swallowed. “Then what are you saying?”
Lena closed her eyes. The word had been sitting on her tongue for weeks, unspoken but heavy. Saying it felt like stepping off a ledge. “I think…” Her voice faltered. “I think we should get a divorce.”
The air went thin.
Kara stared at her, shock flicking across her face but no anger. No fight. Just acceptance. “Ok.” She said quietly.
The simplicity of it stole Lena’s breath. “Ok?”
“If that’s what you want, Lena...” Kara said. Her voice wasn’t cold. It was tired. “Then ok.”
Lena waited for the argument. The plea. The counteroffer.
It never came.
Kara turned away instead. She grabbed her jacket, her keys, movements careful, controlled like she was afraid any sudden motion would shatter her. At the doorway, she paused, her back still to Lena. “I love you.” She said, voice rough. “But I don’t know how to stay without losing myself in the process.” Then she left. The door closed softly behind her.
Lena stood there, staring at the empty space, heart pounding painfully in her chest. She slid down against the counter, breath hitching as the reality settled in.
From the hallway came Micah’s small voice asking where Mama had gone. Jade began to cry, sharp and confused, one of her older sisters emerging to soothe her.
She had asked for this.
And it hurt more than she had ever imagined.
Jade’s squeal pulled her back to the present as she stood near the entryway, Micah perched on her hip, his cheek pressed sleepily against her shoulder. At three, he was all sharp awareness and sudden exhaustion, eyes heavy but still tracking every sound. Jade who had just turned two sat cross-legged at Lena’s feet, clutching a felt ornament in both hands, turning it over with serious concentration.
“Jade…” Lena murmured, distracted but fond. “Baby that’s not food.”
Jade looked up at her, solemn as anything. “No eat.” she repeated, shaking her head then immediately put it in her mouth anyway.
Lena huffed out a quiet laugh and swapped it for a fabric star. “Thank you.”
Jade grinned. “Tar.”
“Star.” Lena corrected gently.
“Tar!” Jade repeated, satisfied.
Micah lifted his head at the ding of the elevator, eyes sharpening instantly. “Is Mama coming?” he asked, voice soft but clear.
Lena’s breath caught just for a second. “Yes.” she said. “Mama’s coming with your big sisters.”
The elevator doors slid open.
Kara stepped out first, bundled against the cold, arms full of Christmas gifts to put under the tree, breath fogging slightly as she exhaled. Andie followed, their tall seventeen year old, composed and watchful in a way that made Lena’s chest ache. Their sixteen year old, Kieran came in last, overnight bag slung over her shoulder, posture guarded in that way that said she’d already decided not to hope.
For a moment, no one moved.
Then Micah twisted around in Lena’s arms, eyes lighting up. “Mama!” he called, loud and sure.
Kara’s face broke into a smile before she could stop it, something bright and cracked and painfully honest. “Hey, buddy.” she said, already stepping forward then crouched to set everything down and free up her arms.
Lena didn’t think. She adjusted her grip and let Micah go, his small body launching into Kara’s arms like it was muscle memory.
Kara caught him easily, pressing a kiss into his curls, her eyes closing briefly as if she needed the contact to breathe.
Jade gasped, delighted. “Mama!” she echoed, scrambling to her feet and toddling forward with determined urgency.
“Oh hey peanut.” Kara laughed, crouching just in time to scoop her up too. “There you are.”
Jade patted Kara’s cheek with both hands. “Mama home.” she announced proudly.
Kara swallowed down the lump that was forming in her throat. “Yeah, baby.” she said softly. “I’m here.”
Andie watched quietly, arms folded, taking it all in.
Kieran looked away, jaw tightening, like she was pretending none of this mattered.
Lena folded her arms across her chest, grounding herself as the moment stretched.
“Hi.” Kara said finally, meeting her eyes.
“Hi.” Lena replied.
The word felt heavier than it should have. They stood there, surrounded by suitcases and tinsel and the soft sound of Christmas music playing in the background, suspended in something that felt like another lifetime.
Andie cleared her throat. “Uh. We can bring the bags in?”
“Yes.” Lena said quickly, stepping aside. “Of course. Come in. It’s cold.”
The penthouse shifted as they entered. Familiar, but not unchanged. Andie glanced around, cataloguing what was different and what stubbornly remained the same.
Kieran dropped her bag near the couch and lingered, hands shoved into her sleeves.
For a moment, neither of them shifted. Not because they didn’t want to but because everyone in the room understood the weight of that choice. Andie and Kieran had chosen to live with Kara when she moved out, not out of distance or loyalty, but practicality.
Kara had bought a house closer to their high school, closer to friends and routines that hadn’t fractured along with their parents’ marriage.
It had been easier on Lena, too. Fewer late nights helping the girls with their homework, fewer drives across the city just to drop them off, fewer reminders of what she was already trying to hold together with Micah and Jade still so small.
It had been the kind of decision adults told themselves was sensible.
That didn’t make it hurt any less.
Then Andie crossed the space and wrapped her arms around Lena, hugging her firmly. Not rushed, not tentative. It was the kind of hug that said I know, that said I’m still here, that said you’re still my mom, even though we don’t live together now.
Lena froze for half a heartbeat before her arms came up, holding her daughter close. “Hi.” she murmured, voice soft against Andie’s hair.
“Hi mom.” Andie replied, just as quietly.
When she pulled back, Kieran stepped forward without being asked. Her hug was tighter, briefer, like she was bracing herself for something she refused to name.
Lena felt it anyway. The tension, the hope she didn’t want to admit to. “You doing ok?” she asked gently.
Kieran shrugged, but she didn’t let go right away. “Yeah.”
Lena nodded, accepting the half-truth for what it was. “Alright.”
Kara watched from where she stood, Micah balanced on her hip, Jade tucked against her side. She didn’t interrupt. She didn’t need to. This moment wasn’t hers but it mattered to her all the same.
Lena crouched to Jade’s level once Kara put her down. “Go on, sweetheart. Show your sisters the tree.”
Jade didn’t need to be told twice. “Tar!” she declared again, pointing enthusiastically as she waddled off then squealed with laughter when Andie scooped her up and tickled her tummy.
Micah squirmed in Kara’s arms. “We did lights, Mama.” he said seriously. “Mommy helped.”
“I see that.” Kara replied, smiling softly. “It looks perfect.” Something flickered behind her eyes at the word.
Lena straightened and gestured down the hallway. “The guest room’s ready.”
Kara nodded once. “Thank you.”
Lena hesitated, then cleared her throat. “Dinner should be ready soon. I just need a few more minutes.”
Kara nodded, grateful for the normalcy of it. “Ok.” She adjusted Micah on her hip, then glanced toward the stack of bags and carefully wrapped boxes Andie had been guarding since the elevator ride. “Hey girls…” She said gently. “Why don’t you two put the presents under the tree with your siblings, yeah?”
Micah perked up immediately. “Presents?”
“Yes.” Kara laughed softly. “Those ones but you can’t open them until Christmas day ok bud.”
“Ok, Mama. I won’t touch till I’m allowed.”
Jade gasped like this was brand-new information. “Peh-sents!” she ran gleeful circles around the couch, her arms held high above her head.
Kieran picked up one of the boxes, eyebrow lifting. “You sure? You know Jade likes to open things when she's not supposed to.”
“Yeah.” Kara said. “I’m sure it’ll be fine and you know where everything goes.”
Andie smiled and nudged Kieran with her elbow. “C’mon. Micah can help.”
Micah slid out of Kara’s arms on his own, walking eagerly toward the tree.
Jade followed, dragging one corner of a gift bag with intense concentration.
“Careful.” Kara called after them, amused.
Lena watched the small procession with something like quiet wonder, hands clasped loosely in front of her. “I’ll call you when it’s ready.” she said, voice softer now.
Kara met her eyes. “Ok, thank you.” She lingered for half a second longer than necessary, then turned and headed down the hallway toward the guest room.
Behind her, the living room filled with murmurs and soft laughter of Micah narrating every step.
Jade insisting on placing one present exactly right, stomped her foot when one of her sisters placed it in the wrong spot on purpose. “No!” She pointed with her chubby finger, her blue-green eyes burning into Kieran’s.
“Oh you want it there?” Kieran grinned and moved it to the spot where Jade was pointing to.
“Yes!” Jade clapped her hands together with a grin.
Kieran moved it again to where she had it before. “So not here?”
Jade shook her head. She dropped to her knees and patted the spot next to a gift for Lena. “Nah-uh. I wan’ it dere. No move.”
Kieran blinked, then let out a soft laugh, lifting her hands in mock surrender. “Wow.” she said, amused with a quiet chuckle. “You really have Mom’s attitude already.”
From the kitchen, Lena paused. She leaned just enough into the doorway to see Jade now standing firm, finger still pointed, Micah watching like this was a matter of great importance. A smile tugged at her mouth before she spoke. “Kieran…” she called mildly, warmth threaded through the warning. “Don’t tease your sister.”
Kieran grinned, unapologetic. “I’m not teasing.”
“You are.” Lena replied dryly, amusement still there. “Be nice to Jade.”
Jade looked up at the sound of her name, satisfied grin spreading across her face like she’d just won something important.
“Alright, I’ll put it there.” Kieran placed it down, receiving a sloppy kiss on her cheek from her sister.
Lena shook her head, fond, and turned back to the stove to continue with dinner while the girls finished off the presents.
The tree lights pulsed in different colours, reflecting off the ornaments as if the room itself were paying attention.
Kara paused in the doorway of the guest room, suitcase at her feet. She exhaled slowly.
Christmas was still days away. But somehow, standing there, listening to her family in the next room, it already felt closer than she’d expected and the guest room was exactly as Kara remembered it.
Neutral, careful, untouched by personality in a way that felt intentional now. Soft grey walls, neatly made bed, the scent of clean linen and something subtly floral that reminded her of Lena without belonging to her even though they were technically still married. The lamp on the bedside table cast a warm, low light, enough to soften the edges without pretending this was anything else.
Kara set her suitcase down by the dresser and stood there for a moment longer than necessary, hands resting on the handle as if it might anchor her.
She closed her eyes and twisted her wedding band she never bothered to take off around on her finger with her thumb.
In the living room, she could still hear them. Micah’s voice rising and falling with excitement, Jade’s delighted babble, Andie’s quiet laughter, Kieran’s low, steady responses.
Familiar sounds. Family sounds. Sounds she hadn’t realized how much she’d missed until they were suddenly just through a wall again.
Kara dragged a hand down her face and let out a slow breath. Get it together, she told herself. Just… get through dinner.
She moved to the bed and sat, shoulders slumping now that no one was watching. For a few seconds, she let herself feel it. The weight of being here, of seeing Lena again in a space that still felt like home no matter how hard she tried to convince herself otherwise.
Micah launching into her arms. Jade’s small hands on her face. The way Lena had looked at her, guarded but open, like she didn’t know which version of herself to lead with.
Kara pressed her palms together, elbows on her knees, head bowed. We tried, she thought. God, we tried.
She’d replayed every argument she lost count of, a hundred times in her head since the separation. All the stupid ones that turned sharp, all the important ones that never landed the way they were supposed to. They’d loved each other fiercely, clumsily, and sometimes too loudly. Somewhere along the way, loving Lena had started to feel like losing ground instead of gaining it.
And yet.
Kara looked around the room again, taking in the careful order, the lack of personal touches. Lena had never made this space hers. Had never filled it with books or photos or warmth.
Like she’d known Kara might need it again someday.
The thought tightened something in Kara’s chest. It had been six long months since she had stepped foot in the house she spent years raising her family in.
Six months of picking the young ones up in the lobby when it was her time to have them or collecting them from L-Corp when Lena had to work.
Six months of sending the older two off to spend time with Lena without even leaving the car.
Six long months of avoiding Lena at all costs unless it involved their kids in some kind of way.
She stood and opened her suitcase, moving automatically now. Sweater folded here, jeans there, toothbrush set neatly in the cup by the sink in the en-suite bathroom. She changed into something more comfortable, tugging on a soft hoodie that still smelled like her old place. She paused, fingers curled into the fabric, grounding herself.
In the mirror, she barely recognized herself for a second. Older, maybe, more tired. But there was something else there too.
We don’t have to fight, she reminded herself. Not tonight. Not here.
A soft knock sounded at the door. Kara’s heart stuttered before she forced herself to breathe. “Yeah?”
“Dinner in five.” Lena said through the door. Not opening it. Not leaving either.
“Ok.” Kara replied. “I’ll be right there.”
There was a pause just long enough to feel it.
“Glad you’re here.” Lena added quietly.
Kara closed her eyes again, resting her forehead briefly against the cool surface of the mirror. “Me too.” she said.
When the footsteps retreated, Kara straightened, squared her shoulders, and took one last steadying breath. Whatever this was… Truce, tradition, second chance, she would meet it honestly.
Then she turned off the lamp and stepped back into the light, ready to rejoin her family where dinner was already set when Kara returned to the dining area.
The table glowed under the pendant light, plates warmed, glasses set, food arranged with Lena’s usual precision. Nothing extravagant. Pasta, roasted vegetables, fresh bread still steaming slightly in its basket. The kind of meal meant to feed a family, not impress anyone.
Micah was already in his booster seat, swinging his legs as he narrated something to Jade, who was perched beside him with her sippy cup clutched in both hands.
Andie and Kieran sat across from them, shoulders close but not touching, the way they always did when they were quietly bracing for something.
Lena moved between the counter and the table, finishing touches, movements smooth but careful like she was hyperaware of everyone’s presence. “Ok.” she said at last, setting the last dish down. “Let’s eat before it gets cold.”
Kara slid into the chair beside Micah, automatically cutting his pasta into manageable pieces. He watched her closely, serious.
“Thank you, Mama.”
“You’re welcome, buddy.” Kara turned back to her plate.
Jade poked at her food, then looked up at Lena. “Ouchy, it hot.” She watched the steam curl into the air.
“Yes.” Lena said gently. “Just a little. Mommy will help cool it.” She gently blew on the food until it was cool enough.
Dinner started quietly. Forks clinking, the soft sounds of chewing, Micah humming under his breath as he ate. It wasn’t uncomfortable, exactly. Just careful.
Lena glanced up from her plate, eyes settling on Andie first. “So… how’s school been going?”
Andie looked surprised just for a split second before answering. “Uh. Good. Busy.”
“College applications.” Kieran added dryly. “They’re trying to kill her.”
Andie shot her a look. “They are not.”
“You cried over a personal statement last week.” Kieran said flatly.
“I was emotionally processing.”
Lena smiled despite herself. “That still counts as crying.”
Andie laughed, some of the tension easing from her shoulders. “Yeah, ok. Fine.”
“What are you thinking of applying for?” Lena asked.
Andie shrugged. “Journalism like Mama. Maybe political science.”
Lena nodded thoughtfully. “You’ve always been good at asking the right questions.”
Andie ducked her head, pleased.
Lena turned to Kieran next. “And you?”
Kieran hesitated, twirling her fork. “Fine.” she said automatically.
Lena waited.
“Fine-ish.” Kieran amended. “Math’s easy. English is annoying. Science is always fun I guess.”
Kara snorted quietly. “You say that every year.”
“And every year it’s true.”
Lena smiled. “Any clubs still keeping you after school?”
Kieran nodded. “Robotics. We’re prepping for regionals.”
Lena’s eyes brightened. “That’s great.”
“It’s… yeah.” Kieran said, softer now. “It’s good.”
Micah slammed his fork down suddenly. “I nearly eat all my greens!”
Kara laughed. “You did! That’s amazing.”
Jade clapped. “Gween!”
“Very impressive.” Lena said, smiling at him. “Does that mean you’ll try one more bite?”
Micah considered this deeply. “Maybe.”
Jade, inspired, shoved a piece of broccoli into her mouth and immediately made a face. “No.” she spat it back out and wiped her tongue on an napkin before taking a large drink of water from her sippy cup. “Yucky!”
Everyone laughed. Real laughter this time, warm and unguarded.
The tension didn’t disappear.
But it loosened.
Lena caught Kara’s eye across the table, just briefly. There was gratitude there. Relief. Something fragile but hopeful.
For tonight, at least, they weren’t a family pretending.
They were just… eating dinner together and clean up happened the way it always used to without discussion, without direction.
Kara gathered plates from the table while Lena stacked leftovers into containers, their movements instinctively coordinated. When Kara reached for the same dish Lena already had, they both paused, hands hovering, before Lena let go with a small smile.
“Sorry.” Kara said automatically.
“It’s fine.” Lena replied, just as reflexively.
Andie noticed.
She leaned against the counter beside Kieran, drying cutlery and pretending not to watch the way their mothers moved around each other, close like they were relearning shared space one small motion at a time.
Micah insisted on helping, which meant standing on a chair and very seriously rinsing one spoon over and over again.
Jade sat on the floor with a towel and a pile of plastic containers, pushing them back and forth and announcing. “Mama. Clean!” whenever one slid particularly well.
“Team effort.” Kara said warmly, nudging Micah’s elbow when he splashed a little too much water.
“I can do it.” Micah insisted.
“We know.” Lena said fondly. “You’re doing a great job.”
Kieran caught Andie’s eye. That, her look said. That’s new.
When the kitchen was finally clear and Lena flicked the dishwasher on, Andie clapped her hands once. “Ok. We’ve got bedtime.”
Micah groaned dramatically. “Nooo. I don’t wanna sleep.”
“Yes.” Kara said gently, crouching. “You can pick the story.”
Jade gasped. “Two?”
“Two.” Andie confirmed. “Well done sissy. You’re learning.”
Micah allowed himself to be scooped up by Andie while Kieran took Jade’s hand, guiding her toward the hallway.
“Night, Mama.” Micah called over his shoulder.
Kara smiled. “Goodnight, buddy.”
“Night night, Mama.” Jade echoed, waving.
Lena’s throat tightened just slightly as she answered her baby. “Goodnight, sweetheart.”
The hallway swallowed them up, leaving the kitchen suddenly quiet again.
Kara reached for a towel and dried her hands, then hesitated. “I can—”
“I’ve got it.” Lena said, already wiping the counter. “You… go sit.”
Kara nodded, something unreadable passing across her face, and moved toward the living room.
Ten minutes later, the older girls returned.
“Micah was already half-asleep.” Andie said, smiling. “Jade made it through one and a half stories.”
“That tracks.” Kara replied.
Andie flopped onto the couch, pulling a blanket over her legs.
Kieran dropped beside her, remote in hand. “Movie?” she asked.
“Movie.” Andie agreed.
They chose something familiar. Nothing too loud, nothing too emotional. The kind of movie you didn’t really have to watch to enjoy.
From the couch, Andie watched Kara sit on the opposite end, posture relaxed but not quite comfortable, hands folded loosely in her lap. Lena took the armchair nearby, close enough to be part of it, far enough to keep a line between them.
Or at least, she meant to.
Halfway through the movie, Kara laughed quietly at something on screen. Lena glanced over without thinking and didn’t look away right away.
Andie noticed that too.
Kieran leaned closer, whispering in her sisters ear. “They’re not fighting.”
“No.” Andie murmured back. “They’re… trying.”
On screen, something sentimental happened. Kara huffed out another quiet laugh, then caught herself and went still, like she’d remembered where she was. Lena looked over again at her at the same time, their eyes meeting for half a second too long before both of them looked away.
Andie noticed.
Lena shifted in her chair, fingers tightening around her glass. Kara leaned forward, forearms resting on her knees, gaze fixed on the screen but clearly not seeing it anymore.
They were both restless now. A little too aware of each other.
Kieran leaned closer to Andie, voice barely a whisper. “They need to talk.”
“Yeah, I noticed.” Andie murmured back. “They’re circling it.”
Neither of their mothers moved closer. Neither of them pulled away either. The space between them felt charged, like something unsaid had settled there and refused to leave.
Their mothers weren’t fixed but they weren’t pretending anymore, either. And for the first time in a long while, Andie let herself believe that Christmas this year might bring more than just tradition.
It might bring honesty. The movie ended a little while later without anyone really noticing when.
Andie stretched and yawned, pulling the blanket off her legs. “I’m heading to bed.”
Kieran nodded, already standing. “Same.”
They said goodnight easily. Hugs for Lena, hugs for Kara that lingered just a beat longer than necessary. Neither girl commented on the tension humming in the room, but both of them felt it, heavy and waiting.
Micah and Jade slept soundly down the hall, their doors cracked open, nightlights glowing low in their rooms.
Lena paused near the hallway, glancing back once at Kara. “Goodnight.”
“Night.” Kara replied, voice quiet.
They didn’t say anything else. They didn’t need to, not yet as the penthouse settled into sleep, lights dimmed, city noise fading to a distant hush.
********
Kara was the first one awake before the sun had a chance to rise.
For a moment and feeling rather disoriented, she lay still and listened. The sound of birds slowly waking up, the distant sound of traffic far below, the quiet breathing of a house full of people she loved. Then it all came back to her at once.
The guest room. The couch. The things they hadn’t said to each other in six months.
She exhaled slowly and got up. The kitchen was dark when she slipped in, bare feet silent against the floor. She moved by instinct, finding pans, opening drawers, filling the kettle. The light above the stove clicked on, soft and low.
She started small. Pancakes. Scrambled eggs. Fruit cut into neat pieces for the younger ones. Coffee brewing, rich and familiar. The kind of breakfast she used to make on weekends when she still lived there.
Micah appeared first, hair sticking up in every direction, dragging his blanket behind him. He blinked at the kitchen, then at Kara. “Mama?” he asked, voice still half-asleep.
Kara smiled. “Morning, buddy.”
Jade followed soon after, toddling in with her rabbit tucked under her arm. “Smell.” she declared, pointing at her mother.
“Good smell.” Kara agreed, crouching to kiss her forehead then Micah’s. “Good morning my loves.”
Lena came next, stopping short in the doorway. She took in the scene.
Kara at the stove, Micah perched on a stool, Jade humming to herself as she ate the fruit pieces Kara was feeding her. The quiet domesticity of it all hit her square in the chest.
“You didn’t have to.” Lena said softly. “I would have done that.”
Kara glanced over her shoulder. “I wanted to.”
A beat passed.
“Thank you.” Lena said.
Andie and Kieran wandered in last, drawn by the smell and the unfamiliar sight of their mother cooking in a space she hadn’t occupied like this in a long time.
Andie raised an eyebrow. “Is this… pancakes? I thought you had forgotten how since you never make them at our other home.”
Kara laughed lightly. “I still remember how.”
Kieran poured herself juice, pretending not to smile. “Looks good.”
They gathered around the table, easy and sleepy, no rush anywhere. Kara served, Lena passed plates, their movements falling into step again without discussion.
They’d barely settled at the table when it happened.
Jade stared at her plate for a long, thoughtful moment, pancakes cut into small squares, berries lined neatly to one side, her sippy cup placed just within reach. She picked up one piece of strawberry, examined it closely… then deliberately dropped it onto the floor.
Everyone froze.
Jade watched it fall with intense focus.
“Uh-oh.” Micah whispered.
Jade smiled.
Before anyone could react, she grabbed her sippy cup with both hands and tipped it. Juice spilled across the table in a bright, sticky river, dripping off the edge and onto the floor below.
“Oh come on now… Jade.” Lena said, half-laughing, already reaching for napkins.
Jade clapped. “Mess!”
Micah’s eyes went wide. “Jade made a big mess.”
“She did.” Kara said calmly, already moving. She slid her chair back and crouched, grabbing paper towels from the counter. “Ok. Pause. Everyone pause.”
Jade blinked at her, then immediately stuck a pancake square to her cheek.
Kara bit her lip to keep from smiling as she gently peeled it off. “Alright, chaos goblin. Hands up.”
Jade raised both hands obediently, syrup dripping from her fingers.
Lena passed Kara a towel, their fingers brushing briefly. Neither of them commented on it.
“Sticky, Mama.” Jade announced proudly.
“Yes.” Kara agreed, laughing softly. “Very sticky.”
Jade leaned forward and wrapped syrupy arms around Kara’s neck.
Kara laughed out loud this time, unguarded. “Ok. that’s worse. That’s definitely worse.”
Lena shook her head fondly. “You are a real gremlin this morning, huh.”
Kara laughed softly, easing back into her chair as Jade settled again, now mostly clean and looking very pleased with herself. “She waited until we were all watching. That was intentional.”
Jade grinned around a mouthful of pancake. “Mess!” she said again, quieter this time, like she was savoring the word.
“Yes.” Lena agreed. “But no more mess.”
Jade considered this deeply, then nodded and stabbed her pancake with renewed care.
Breakfast resumed after that, slower, calmer, the earlier chaos already turning into something almost funny in hindsight. Kara poured more coffee, sliding Lena’s mug toward her without asking. Lena accepted it without comment, fingers curling around the warmth.
Andie and Kieran ate quietly, the normal sounds of cutlery and soft conversation filling the space.
Kara glanced around the table, taking it in. The noise, the mess that remained just enough to prove it was real, the way everyone fit together again in this moment.
Lena caught her looking.
Their eyes met, and neither of them looked away.
The moment stretched. Kara hadn’t meant to stare. She’d just… lingered. Let her eyes rest where they hadn’t been allowed to rest in months. Lena’s hands wrapped around her mug. The crease between her brows when she was thinking too hard. The way her shoulders were tense, like she was bracing for impact even now.
Andie noticed first. She cleared her throat, a small sound, but deliberate.
Lena blinked, gaze breaking away. Kara shifted in her chair, suddenly very aware of how quiet the room had become.
Kieran nudged Andie beneath the table, subtle but insistent.
“Right.” Andie said, sitting up straighter. “Ok. So. Bath time for you both. Especially you, little miss messy.”
Micah looked up immediately. “Bath?”
“Yes.” Andie said, already pushing her chair back. “A fun bath.”
Jade’s eyes widened. “Bub-bles?”
“Definitely bubbles.” Kieran said, standing and reaching for her. “And maybe the ducks.”
Jade gasped again, delighted. “Ducks!”
Micah slid off his chair before anyone could stop him, nearly tripping in his hurry. “I can help!”
The younger two were ushered down the hallway amid excited chatter and promises of foam and floating toys. Andie paused just before turning the corner, glancing back once, not at Kara, not at Lena individually, but at the space between them.
Kara let out a breath she hadn’t realized she’d been holding and stood, more to do something with her body than because she had a plan. She gathered a plate that didn’t need clearing, set it down again, then finally leaned back against the counter. “They’re… good kids.” she said quietly, as if naming it might ground her and just to make conversation.
Lena nodded, stacking napkins with unnecessary precision. “They are.”
“You’ve done an incredible job.” Kara added, softer now.
Lena’s hands stilled. Just for a moment. “You were here too even when you weren’t.”
Kara swallowed. “It didn’t feel like enough.”
Lena didn’t argue. She folded her arms across her chest instead, fingers curling into the sleeves of her sweater. A familiar self-protective gesture. One Kara knew by heart.
“Kara…” Lena began, then stopped. She looked away, gaze drifting toward the hallway where the kids had gone. “I don’t know if I’m ready.”
Kara nodded slowly, giving her space. “I know you’re scared.”
Lena let out a short breath. “I’m terrified. Every time we tried to talk before, it turned into… something sharp. Something we couldn’t take back.”
“I remember.” Kara said. Her voice was steady, but her chest ached. “I remember feeling like every word mattered too much. Like we were always one wrong sentence away from another fight.”
Silence settled again, thick but not hostile.
“I don’t want that anymore.” Lena admitted. “I don’t want to sit down with you and feel like I have to defend myself.”
Kara pushed off the counter, taking one careful step closer, not into Lena’s space, just nearer. “Neither do I. I just… I don’t want to keep pretending everything’s fine when it’s not.”
Lena met her eyes then, something vulnerable flickering there. “And I don’t want to open something I don’t know how to close yet.”
Kara nodded, even though it hurt. “Ok.”
The word was simple. Honest.
“I can wait.” Kara added. “I just needed you to know that when you’re ready… I’m here. Not to argue. Just to listen.”
Lena studied her for a long moment, searching her face like she was looking for proof. Finally, she exhaled. “Thank you. For not pushing.”
Kara’s smile was small, but real. “I’m done pushing.”
From down the hall came the distant sound of running water and Micah’s excited voice echoing off tile.
Lena’s shoulders loosened just a fraction. “This isn’t a no.” she said quietly. “It’s just… not yet.”
Kara met her gaze, understanding settling in. “That’s ok.”
By late morning, the penthouse had grown restless.
Micah had run laps from the living room to the hallway and back again, narrating his own footsteps. Jade followed behind him at a slower pace, determined to keep up even when her legs clearly disagreed. Andie sat cross-legged on the floor with her phone abandoned beside her, watching the chaos with the air of someone who knew exactly where it was headed.
Kieran was the first to say it. “We should leave.”
Lena looked up from where she’d been re-stacking wrapping paper that didn’t need reorganizing. “Leave? You just got here yesterday.”
“Yes. And I meant leave the house as in go shopping.” Kieran replied. “Before Micah discovers gravity again.”
Micah skidded to a stop. “I already did.”
Kara snorted quietly, rubbing her forehead. “She’s not wrong.”
Lena hesitated, glancing around the penthouse. The half-wrapped gifts for the rest of their family who would turn up later, the tree lights still glowing from earlier, the way the air felt a little too full. Then she nodded, decision settling. “We still need a few things anyway.” she said. “Stocking stuffers. Extra tape. Maybe… one or two more gifts for your grandmothers, aunts, uncles and cousins.”
Andie was already on her feet, pulling on her boots. “I’ll grab coats.”
Getting everyone out the door took longer than it should have. Coats tugged on, scarves tangled, Jade insisting on wearing the same mittens she’d outgrown last year until Lena gently negotiated a replacement.
Kara crouched to zip Micah’s jacket, brushing snow off his shoulders when he immediately flung himself into a dramatic spin.
Once outside, the cold air snapped them all awake as they all piled into the minivan. The city buzzed with pre-holiday energy, carols spilling from storefronts, lights strung across lampposts, people moving with purpose and distraction in equal measure.
Kara lifted Micah onto her shoulders without being asked, his boots bumping gently against her chest as he pointed enthusiastically at everything above eye level.
“Lights!” he exclaimed.
“Yes, my son.” Kara laughed. “Lots of lights.”
Jade held Lena’s hand tightly, her mittened fingers warm despite the chill. Every few steps, she stopped to stare into shop windows, animated displays, glittering ornaments, plush toys lined up like an army.
“Look, Mama!” she whispered, awed. “Toys! Lots toys!”
“I see, baby.” Lena replied softly, crouching beside her so they could look together.
Inside the mall, the air was warmer, heavy with the smell of pretzels and cinnamon. Music hummed overhead, slightly too loud. Micah immediately wriggled to be put down, sprinting toward the nearest toy display before Kara caught him by the hood.
“Walking please.” Kara reminded gently. “No running in the mall.”
“Walk fast then.” Micah countered.
“Negotiable.” Kara agreed.
At the toy store, Micah became transfixed by a wall of trucks, hands hovering reverently over the shelves. “This one’s a snow plow.” he informed Kara. “It moves snow.”
“Very clever.” Kara said. “You know your trucks.”
Jade, meanwhile, had wrapped both arms around a stuffed bear nearly her size and showed no signs of letting go. “Hug.” she said decisively. “I want!”
Lena crouched beside her, brushing hair out of her eyes. “Is that for you?”
Jade nodded once. “Mine.”
Kara glanced over, smiling softly. “She knows what she wants.”
Lena huffed a quiet laugh. “Unfortunately, yes.”
They moved through the store together. Not tightly grouped, but not drifting apart either. Kara reached for things without asking, Lena handed items back when they didn’t quite fit. When they reached the register, Kara instinctively reached for her wallet.
Lena noticed. She paused, then shook her head gently. “I’ve got this.”
Kara hesitated, then nodded, stepping back. “Are you sure? I don’t—”
“Yeah. I’m sure.” Lena gently interrupted, already handing over her credit card to the cashier before taking it back.
The mall stretched out around them in soft holiday chaos. Lights strung from every railing, music humming just loud enough to be unavoidable, the air warm and crowded with people doing exactly what they were doing. Trying to remember everyone they loved all at once.
Micah insisted on walking now, boots thudding against the floor as he stayed deliberately one step ahead of Kara.
Jade rode on Lena’s hip, her head swivelling constantly as she took in the noise and colour.
They stopped near the food court when Micah’s energy dipped for the first time all day. Kara ordered fries and nuggets, passing Jade apple slices with hers while Lena grabbed coffee for herself and a couple of soda’s for her daughters also getting Kara a milkshake. They claimed a small table tucked off to the side, coats draped over chair backs, bags gathered at their feet.
Micah sat between Kara and Lena, feet swinging as he carefully dipped fries into ketchup.
Jade stole one immediately and grinned when no one stopped her.
After eating, Andie and Kieran exchanged a look, one Kara recognized instantly.
“We’re gonna split off for a bit.” Andie said casually. “Get gifts.”
Kieran nodded. “We’ll meet you back here in a bit.”
“For who?” Kara asked, though she already knew.
“For everyone of course.” Andie replied, already backing away. “Don’t worry. We know what they like.” She grinned and ran off.
The girls moved with purpose. Andie leading, Kieran checking lists on her sisters phone. They ducked into a bookstore first, arguing quietly over hardback versus paperback for Winn. A few shops later, they found something Esme would love. Sparkly, loud, impossible to ignore and something gentler for Ruby.
“Aunt Sam will like this.” Andie said, holding up a scarf in deep jewel tones.
“And Aunt Andrea will probably steal it.” Kieran replied with a chuckle.
They both laughed quietly and added it to the pile.
James was harder.
“He already owns everything.” Andie muttered.
“Get him something sentimental.” Kieran suggested. “He pretends he doesn’t care. He does.”
They paused longer over gifts for their grandmothers. Something warm and thoughtful for Eliza. Something elegant and understated for Lillian. Andie reread the card twice before nodding to herself.
Back with Kara and Lena, Micah had discovered a small holiday train display and was narrating its journey in great detail.
Jade clapped every time it passed by. “Choo-choo Mama!”
“That’s right my little star.” Kara laughed. “It is a choo-choo.”
When Andie and Kieran returned, arms full, Kara raised an eyebrow. “Successful?”
“Yes.” Andie said simply.
“Very.” Kieran added.
They merged again, moving through the last few stores together, picking up wrapping paper, extra tape, a last-minute ornament that Jade insisted was ‘pretty’ to hang on the tree.
Outside again, bags heavier and hands colder, the energy began to ebb. Micah leaned against Kara’s shoulder, his commentary fading into mumbled observations.
Jade yawned deeply, rubbing her eyes with her mitten. “Home?” she asked.
“Yes, baby.” Lena said softly. “Home.” She picked her up and carried her to the car.
As they walked back toward the car, Andie and Kieran drifted closer together ahead of them, voices low. Kara slowed her steps to match Lena’s without thinking.
When they finally stepped back into the penthouse, cheeks flushed, coats piled by the door, shopping bags stacked neatly by the tree, Micah was already half-asleep, Jade clinging to Lena’s shoulder.
Andie toed off her boots and stretched, glancing down the hallway. “I’m gonna drop my stuff in my room.”
“Same.” Kieran added, already halfway there.
They disappeared into their rooms without ceremony, doors closing softly behind them, the penthouse settling into a quieter rhythm.
Lena carried the younger two down the hall, Jade’s arms looped loosely around her neck, Micah leaning into her side. Kara watched them go for a moment before turning back to the bags.
She moved methodically, setting everything out on the kitchen counter. Toys grouped together, wrapping paper stacked neatly, receipts folded and tucked aside. The normalcy of it grounded her.
From down the hall came the low murmur of Lena’s voice, soothing and familiar, followed by the gentle click of doors. A few minutes later, the bathroom light flicked on, water starting to run.
Kara paused, listening, then went back to work.
She was halfway through sorting when Andie wandered back out, hair pulled up, hoodie swapped for something softer. “Need help?”
Kara smiled. “Always.”
Kieran followed a moment later, dropping onto a stool and grabbing a roll of tape. “Let’s do this.”
They worked quietly at first, paper cut and folded, tape torn and smoothed, the soft rhythm of hands moving in sync. Andie labelled tags while Kieran handled the corners with practiced efficiency.
“Micah’s gonna lose his mind over this one.” Andie murmured, holding up a wrapped truck.
Kara chuckled. “He will.”
“And Jade…” Kieran added, gesturing to the plush toy. “Won’t let this one go ever.”
Kara smiled, warmth settling in her chest. “That sounds about right.”
They finished up and placed the wrapped presents under the tree, ready for Christmas morning to arrive.
********
The night of Christmas Eve had arrived.
The penthouse was quiet in the way only a house with sleeping children ever was. The tree lights glowed softly in the living room, reflections of silver and gold drifting across the walls like slow-moving stars.
Down the hall, four bedroom doors were closed. Four children slept safely inside them, unaware of how much their mothers were standing on the edge of.
Kara hadn’t moved from the kitchen counter in several minutes. Her mug sat untouched beneath her hands, heat long gone.
Lena stood opposite her, leaning back against the counter, arms folded loosely, not defensive, just uncertain, like she wasn’t sure where to put them anymore.
They’d been circling each other all evening. Passing in hallways. Sharing glances that lingered too long. Pretending there wasn’t something pressing against both their chests.
Finally, Kara exhaled. “We can’t keep doing this.” she said quietly.
Lena’s eyes lifted. “Doing what?”
“Pretending we’re fine.” Kara replied. “Pretending these few days since I stepped foot back into this house… cracked something open.”
Lena looked away, jaw tightening briefly before she nodded. “I know.”
“I don’t even know how we got so bad at talking.” Kara continued. “We used to be so good at it.”
Lena let out a small breath. “We were good at it. Until we weren’t.”
“I think…” Kara said slowly, choosing her words carefully. “Somewhere along the way, we stopped trying to understand each other and started trying to be right.”
Lena flinched, but didn’t disagree. “I felt like I was constantly being corrected. Like everything I did was… wrong.”
Kara nodded immediately. “And I felt like nothing I said landed unless I pushed harder.” Her voice wavered just slightly. “So I kept pushing. Even when I should’ve stopped.”
Lena uncrossed her arms, hands dropping to her sides. “I shut down. Every time. Instead of telling you I was overwhelmed, I just… closed myself off.”
“I noticed.” Kara said. “I just didn’t know what to do with it.”
“I didn’t give you anything to work with.” Lena admitted. “I made you fight for space instead of inviting you in.”
They stood there, the truth settling between them.
“I hate that we let it get like that.” Kara said. “I hate that our kids saw us arguing over things that didn’t matter.”
Lena’s throat tightened. “I hate that they got used to it.”
Another pause. Longer this time.
“I’ve missed you. So much.” Kara said finally and honestly. “Not just the idea of you. I missed you. Talking to you. Sitting next to you on the couch. Feeling like we were on the same side.”
Lena swallowed hard. “I’ve missed you too. Even on the days I told myself I didn’t.” Her voice softened. “Especially then.”
“I missed coming home.” Kara added. “Not just to a place but to us.”
Lena closed her eyes for a moment, steadying herself. “I missed knowing you were there. Missed hearing you move around the house. Missed the way you’d reach for me without thinking.”
Kara’s hands tightened around her mug. “I don’t want to hurt you like that again.”
“Neither do I.” Lena said quickly. “I don’t want us to become people who hurt each other just because we don’t know how to stop.”
They finally stepped closer. Not touching, but close enough that the distance felt deliberate.
“I know we can’t just… go back.” Lena said. “What we had before wasn’t working.”
“I don’t want to go back.” Kara replied. “I want to go forward. Differently.”
Lena nodded. “I want us to fix ourselves. Individually. And then fix this.”
“I’m willing to do the work.” Kara said. “Therapy. Boundaries. Walking away when things get heated instead of escalating.”
Lena let out a shaky breath. “I need to learn how to say when I’m overwhelmed instead of shutting down.”
Kara’s expression softened. “I need to learn how to listen without trying to solve everything.”
“I still love you.” Lena said quietly, like she was afraid of breaking something by saying it too loudly.
Kara didn’t hesitate. “I still love you too.”
“I want to try again.” Lena said after a moment. “If you do.”
“I do.” Kara said immediately. “I don’t want to be apart from you. Not like this.”
Lena looked at her phone then, something resolving in her expression. “I don’t want those papers finalized.”
Kara’s breath caught. “Lena—”
“I know.” Lena said gently. “I’ve been thinking about it since I sent you that text last week inviting you here with the girls. About how wrong it felt. About how this… still feels right.” She stepped a few paces away and dialled, waiting for her lawyer to answer. “Katherine, its Lena. I need you to stop the finalization of the divorce. Effective immediately. Yes, both signatures are already on file. I’m withdrawing consent.” She listened, nodding once. “Thank you.” When she ended the call, she stood there for a moment, phone still in her hand, before turning back.
“So it’s done. They aren’t getting finalized?” Kara asked.
“It’s done.” Lena said softly. “They won’t finalize it.”
Kara exhaled, shoulders dropping like she’d been holding herself rigid for months. “That’s good.”
Lena hesitated, vulnerability flickering across her face. “We take this slow.”
Kara nodded. “As slow as you need.” She didn’t move right away. But quietly, she opened her arms, not reaching for Lena, not pulling her in, just offering. An invitation. Her hands stayed relaxed, giving Lena the space to decide.
Lena’s stepped forward and let herself be drawn in.
Kara wrapped her arms around her gently, one hand settling between Lena’s shoulder blades, the other resting low at her back.
Lena leaned into her, turning her head slightly so the side of her face rested against Kara’s chest, fitting there like she’d done it a thousand times before.
Kara lowered her chin, resting it atop Lena’s head, holding her close without pressure, just presence. “I’m sorry.” She whispered. “For all of it.” She placed a lingering kiss to her head.
Lena’s hand curled into the back of Kara’s shirt, fingers gripping gently. “I’m sorry too.” she whispered back. “For every bad thing I said and did.”
They stayed like that for a while, breathing together, neither rushing, neither pulling away, the penthouse quiet around them, Christmas Eve holding them gently.
They weren’t fixed. Not by a long shot. But finally, they were choosing each other again.
Eventually, they pulled apart. Not because either of them wanted to but because they both understood what slow meant now.
Kara’s hands lingered for a second longer at Lena’s back before she let them fall.
Lena took a steady breath, grounding herself, her fingers brushing once more against Kara’s sleeve like she was memorizing the feel of it. “Goodnight.”
“Goodnight.” Kara replied.
They stood there another moment, neither quite ready to turn away, before Kara finally headed down the hall toward the guest room. She paused at the doorway, glancing back once, just to make sure Lena was still there.
She was.
Lena watched Kara disappear into the room, the door closing gently behind her, then exhaled slowly. She stood in the quiet kitchen for a few seconds longer, letting the weight of the evening settle, the words said, the apologies exchanged, the choice made.
Then she turned and went to her own room, closing the door with the same care.
The penthouse went dark, save for the soft glow of the Christmas tree lights in the living room.
Christmas morning arrived quietly until a small and loud voice echoed down the hallway.
“Mama!”
Another followed, louder. “Presents!”
Footsteps pounded. Doors opened. Laughter spilled into the space like sunlight.
Kara stepped out of the guest room just in time to see Micah skidding into the living room in his pyjamas.
“Can we open them? Please?” Micah ran into Kara’s legs, bouncing off of them with a quiet oof.
Kara scooped him up in her arms and blew raspberries onto his stomach. “Soon. Wait for your sisters and mother to wake up.”
Micah squealed, kicking his legs wildly. “Again!”
“Absolutely not.” Kara laughed, pressing one more quick raspberry to his side before setting him back down. “You’re already too awake.”
Jade toddled in behind him, blanket trailing behind her like a cape, eyes half-lidded but bright with instinctive excitement. “Pesents?” she asked hopefully.
“Soon.” Kara repeated, softer this time and picked her up for good morning kisses and cuddles.
Footsteps sounded in the hallway.
Andie appeared first, hair a mess, hoodie pulled over her pyjamas, eyes squinting against the tree lights. She yawned dramatically and dropped onto the couch without ceremony. “Why are they so loud.” she mumbled.
Kieran followed a moment later, rubbing at her face, moving slower, like she was still deciding if being awake was worth it. She stopped just inside the living room and leaned against the wall. “They waited longer than I thought.” she said quietly, glancing at the clock which read that it was just after 7:30am.
And then Lena emerged.
She looked like she’d crawled straight out of bed, hair loose and slightly wild, wearing an oversized sweater that clearly hadn’t been chosen for company. She paused in the doorway, blinking at the scene in front of her. The kids gathered near the tree, Kara already there, Micah bouncing in place with barely contained energy. For a moment, she just stood there.
Then Kara looked up and caught her eye.
“Morning.” Kara said softly.
Lena smiled, small, sleepy, real. “Morning.” She crossed the room slowly, rubbing at one eye, and sank down beside Andie on the couch.
Jade immediately abandoned Kara and toddled over to Lena. “Up.” She murmured.
Lena wrapped an arm around her and hoisted her daughter into her lap. “I’ve got you.”
Micah bounced on his heels, looking between them all, vibrating with anticipation. “Now?”
Kara glanced around the room at the girls half-asleep on the couch, at Lena holding Jade close, at the tree glowing patiently in the corner. She smiled. “Now.” she said.
And just like that, Christmas morning truly began and the paper barely survived the first thirty seconds.
Micah dropped to his knees in front of the tree, hands already grabbing at the nearest box like he might lose it if he waited too long.
Kara guided him gently, steering him toward one with his name written in bold marker. “That one.” she said, smiling. “Start there.”
Micah didn’t bother with tape. He tore straight through the paper with a triumphant sound. “Truck!” he yelled, holding it up like a trophy.
“Yes!” Kara laughed. “A snow plow. Just like you wanted.”
Micah immediately pushed it across the rug, making enthusiastic engine noises that echoed through the room.
Jade stared at the pile for a long moment, clearly overwhelmed. Lena nudged a small, brightly wrapped box toward her. “This one’s yours, sweetheart.”
Jade poked it once. Then twice. Then carefully peeled a corner of the paper back, tongue sticking out in concentration. “Choo-choo.” she breathed when the toy train emerged, eyes going wide.
“Yes.” Lena smiled. “A choo-choo just for you. You can thank your secret santa for that.” She glanced at Andie fondly knowing full well it was her that bought it.
Jade hugged it to her chest and crawled in a small circle, chanting. “Choo-choo, choo-choo.” completely forgetting there were other presents to open.
Andie leaned back against the couch, coffee in hand now, watching the chaos with a fond smile. “She’s done. That’s it.”
“Peak efficiency.” Kieran agreed, already reaching for her own gift.
They opened theirs more slowly. Clothes folded neatly, books unwrapped with care, small thoughtful things that showed how well they were known.
Andie smiled softly at a notebook she immediately flipped open.
Kieran paused over a new phone since she had broken her old one, expression lighting up before she schooled it back into something calmer.
“Thank you Mom. Thank you Mama.” They both said in unison.
“Jinx!” They said at the same time following with a laugh.
“You’re both welcome.” Lena watched them, heart full, then startled slightly when a box appeared in her lap.
“From us.” Kara said.
Lena hesitated before opening it, fingers careful as she pulled the paper away. Inside was something simple but unmistakably chosen with thought, meaningful, something that said we love you.
“Oh.” Lena murmured, touched. “Thank you.”
Kara received her own gift moments later, wrapped in paper that was slightly crooked. She laughed quietly as she opened it, recognition and warmth washing over her face. “You remembered.” she said.
Lena nodded. “Of course I did.”
The room filled with the sounds of tearing paper, laughter, Micah narrating every detail of his new truck’s capabilities, Jade pushing her choo-choo carefully around the tree skirt.
At one point, Andie glanced up from her pile and caught Kara and Lena watching the kids together, standing close but not touching.
The front door flew open without warning and cold air rushed in first, followed immediately by voices.
“Merry Christmas!” someone called far too loudly for the hour.
Everyone froze.
Micah’s truck skidded to a stop. Jade clutched her train to her chest. Andie nearly spilled her coffee. Kieran looked up sharply, already halfway to suspicious.
Alex burst in like a force of nature, scarf half undone, arms full of wrapped boxes. “You left the door unlocked.” she announced cheerfully, as if this explained everything.
Behind her came Kelly, balancing a tray carefully, with Esme right beside her bundled in a festive sweater, eyes bright and already scanning the room. “We knocked. She said mildly. “No one answered.”
Esme gasped. “You opened presents without us?”
“Micah couldn’t wait.” Kara said quickly, grinning. “Mostly.”
Esme didn’t wait for further explanation. She darted forward, stopping just short of the tree. “Whoa.”
Sam followed close behind, shaking snow from her coat, Ruby at her side, taller now, arms full of gifts, taking everything in with a grin that tried very hard to look unimpressed and failed completely.
“This place is wild.” Ruby said, smiling despite herself.
Andrea came in behind them, carrying an oversized bag and surveying the scene like she’d expected nothing less. “You really thought we’d miss this?”
Winn squeezed in next, nearly tripping over a pile of wrapping paper. “Wow.” he said, impressed. “This is… aggressively festive.”
Nia laughed as Brainy carefully stepped around Jade’s carefully laid-out train, eyes lighting up as he took in the decorations.
“It’s perfect.” Nia said warmly.
James appeared last, shutting the door behind him, hands in his pockets, smile easy but genuine. “Hope we’re not late.”
“Not at all.” Lena replied.
Micah ran straight for Alex. “Look! Truck!”
Esme dropped to her knees beside Jade immediately. “Is that a train?”
“Choo-choo.” Jade said proudly.
“That’s awesome.” Esme said, completely sincere.
Ruby set her bags down and crouched near Micah, helping him build an elaborate snow-plow scenario without making a big deal out of it.
Andie and Kieran exchanged a look that said of course this is happening before standing to greet everyone with hugs and sleepy smiles.
Lena paused for a moment, taking it all in. The noise, the laughter, the way the penthouse filled until it felt too small in the best way.
Kara’s hand brushed hers, light and grounding, Lena allowing their fingers to intertwine for a brief moment.
Kara smiled. “Guess it’s a full house.”
Lena laughed softly, emotion bright in her eyes. “Seems like it.”
The morning settled into its rhythm after that.
More wrapping paper appeared from bags and pockets, gifts passed around in no particular order as everyone found space wherever they could. The floor disappeared beneath ribbons and torn paper. Someone turned on music, soft at first, then louder as the room filled.
Micah opened everything with the same level of enthusiasm while Jade stayed close to Lena’s legs, train clutched in one hand, occasionally walking over to deposit a bow or scrap of paper at someone’s feet like it was an offering before tearing open another gift containing another soft plushie to add to her already growing collection.
Esme hovered near the tree, carefully opening her gifts and immediately explaining what each one was going to be used for.
Ruby opened hers more quietly, smile growing with every thoughtful thing pulled free.
Andie and Kieran traded gifts, laughter breaking through their sleepy edges as inside jokes surfaced.
Somewhere in the middle of it all, the kitchen came alive.
Kara drifted in first, rolling up her sleeves, instinct taking over. Alex joined her, then Kelly, the three of them moving around each other easily. Coffee brewing, pans heating, someone cracking eggs while someone else stole bacon straight from the tray.
“Every year.” Alex said fondly. “We say we’ll do this later.”
“And every year…” Kara replied, flipping her famous pancakes. “No one listens.”
Alex snorted softly and leaned back against the counter, watching Kara work for a moment before she spoke again. Her voice dropped, just enough to keep it between them. “So…” she said, casual on the surface. “You and Lena. How are you?”
Kara hesitated, spatula hovering in the air. She glanced toward the living room, where Lena was laughing softly with Jade perched on her hip, before turning back to her sister.
“We talked.” Kara said quietly.
Alex raised an eyebrow. “That’s… new.”
Kara huffed a small laugh. “Yeah.”
“And?” Alex prompted gently.
“And we’re not fixed but we’re trying. We’re taking it slow.”
Alex studied her face, then nodded. “That’s good.”
“She stopped the papers.” Kara added after a beat.
Alex’s eyes widened slightly. “She did?”
Kara nodded. “Last night.”
Alex let out a slow breath, something like relief crossing her face. “I was hoping that’s where this was heading.”
“So was I.”
Alex reached out and bumped Kara’s shoulder with hers, brief and affectionate. “You deserve each other when you’re not actively driving each other insane.”
Kara laughed, flipping another pancake onto the plate. “High praise.”
“Hey.” Alex said, softer now. “I’m glad. For all of you.”
Kara looked past her again, catching Lena’s eye this time. “Me too.”
Lena smiled back, small and private. She wandered over and passed plates where needed, brushed flour from the counter, slipped mugs into waiting hands.
Breakfast was eventually declared ready, though it took another ten minutes before everyone actually made it to the table. Plates were piled high, chairs pulled close, conversations overlapping in the way they always did when too many people shared one space and didn’t mind it at all.
Laughter filled the penthouse easy and loud and real. Outside, the city continued on. Inside, time slowed.
Kara reached for the coffee pot at the same moment Lena did. Lena didn’t pull away. Neither did Kara.
Christmas morning stretched on as gifts were forgotten in favour of stories, plates abandoned and returned to, children wandering from room to room in new socks and oversized sweaters.
Eliza turned up a bit later with Lillian in tow, handing out yet more gifts and receiving their own in return.
Nothing was perfect but everything was full.
And that was more than enough.