Archive of Our Own ^beta

It was late fall in the rural community of Peace Valley, Wisconsin. People hadn’t taken down their Halloween decorations yet, but the stores were already bursting with Christmas items.

It was always frustrating for those of other faiths, like Judaism, who couldn’t just pop into their regional Walmart for Hanukkah supplies. And where were the genuine films celebrating their holidays? But today, Jezebel Ramsey was determined not to let it bother her. She would meet her friend Kate Duquesne for coffee at the local cafe, Brook’s Brew.

Brook’s Brew wasn’t a chain. It was a locally owned establishment run by Brooke Brewster, a young woman who moved from Canada six years ago. The coffeehouse had a cozy atmosphere, excellent service, and delicious food. It was the perfect place to unwind with a friend.

Jezebel parked her silver sedan outside and headed in. She spotted her friend immediately. Like Jezebel, Kate Duquesne had opted for a natural look today, with no makeup and her long silky hair left loose instead of in the usual braid.

Kate, an ER physician, was dressed casually in a maroon long-sleeved shirt and gray fleece pants. Equally laid-back in a comfortable outfit, Jezebel sat down in the corner booth.

"Hey, Jezebel! How’s your afternoon going?" Kate called out, her warm smile matching her greeting.

Jezebel slid into the booth just as a waitress came by to take their drink order. They both decided on the month’s special: pumpkin spice lattes and a platter of blueberry muffins. The waitress nodded and left to prepare their order.

Kate sighed as she picked up the conversation. "You can’t deny Brook’s Brew has excellent customer service. But I wish they weren’t already playing Christmas carols," she said, a little annoyed.

Jezebel nodded, her lips pressing together in frustration. "I know what you mean. Christmas seems to overshadow everything. It’s hard for me to get into the spirit when it’s everywhere. I’m sure I’m not the only one who feels like this, especially with how few stores offer Hanukkah items."

Kate’s face softened with sympathy. "I know it’s tough. Society really does have a way of making one holiday dominate everything. I hear you. At the hospital, we're having a multicultural event this year so everyone can feel included. Hopefully, it'll make the holidays a little easier for some."

Before Jezebel could respond, the waitress returned with their drinks and muffins. The women took a moment to sip their coffee and nibble on a muffin before continuing the conversation.

Jezebel broke the silence first. "Holidays at our place can be overwhelming, especially with the foster kids. It’s a juggling act to ensure everyone feels included and no one is left out."

Kate leaned forward. "That sounds like a lot to handle, especially with the size of your family. How does Jamie deal with it?"

Jezebel smiled proudly, her heart swelling. "Jamie’s been a fantastic big brother. He’s always so patient with the kids. He’s especially excited that we’ll be adopting Ruben soon. After months of fostering him, we’re finally making it official, and Jamie will have a real little brother."

Kate’s face lit up. "That’s wonderful! I’m sure he’s going to be over the moon."

"I think so," Jezebel replied, sipping her latte. "Ruben’s a great kid, and he deserves a stable home. I hope the transition goes smoothly."

Kate paused before reaching for another muffin. "I can only imagine how tough working with CPS must be for you. You see so many children who don’t have a chance."

Jezebel’s face darkened slightly. "It’s heartbreaking. Like the case last month. Do you remember the young woman who was starving her baby because of her paranoia about food?"

Kate nodded somberly. "That case was tragic. I still can't believe that baby was only the size of a five-month-old when she was eight months along. It wasn’t easy for anyone involved, especially when she had to have the C-section."

Jezebel looked down at her coffee, the memory heavy on her heart. "It’s the hardest part of my job, seeing kids fall through the cracks. That poor baby... but at least we got him to safety, I hope he’ll be okay."

Kate’s voice softened. "And as for the mother... she’s getting the help she needs, right?"

"I’m not sure," Jezebel admitted. "But I do know she’s in a psychiatric facility now. I can only hope she recovers."

"Yes, I hope so too," Kate agreed quietly.

After a moment of silence, Kate changed the subject. "By the way, Ruben’s bar mitzvah is coming up, right? Jamie must be so excited for his little brother’s big day."

"Yes, it’s in a few weeks. And of course, you, Ceci, and the kids are all invited. Jamie wouldn’t dream of not having his friends there." Jezebel smiled warmly. "I’m hoping everyone behaves, especially the Masters. You know how they get with their... enthusiastic wardrobe choices."

Kate cringed, remembering some of Maddie’s more unconventional outfits. "Oh god, please tell me they won’t dress like Ghostbusters this time."

Jezebel laughed. "They mostly keep it together, but if there’s a ghost around, you know they’re going to go full-on paranormal investigator."

Kate raised an eyebrow. "I’m pretty sure they’re the only ones who can make a bar mitzvah feel like a Halloween party."

Jezebel rolled her eyes. "Yeah, but it’s just part of the charm. Besides, the kids love it."

Kate shook her head, still laughing. "I swear, you’re the only person who could handle that chaos. Also, you need to stop biting your nails."

Jezebel’s hand froze, but she quickly pulled it back. "I do it when I’m anxious. And I know, I know. You’ve told me a million times."

"I’m just saying," Kate started, her tone softening. "You’re a lot calmer than you think you are."

Jezebel smiled wryly. "Well, I’m still working on it. Anyway, what do you want to do now? It’s our day off, after all."

Kate tapped her chin thoughtfully. "Hmm, I’ve been meaning to pick up some yarn. I’m teaching Danika how to crochet."

Jezebel perked up. "That sounds like fun. Maybe I’ll give it a try too. Could use something to distract myself from all this nail-biting."

Kate grinned. "Then it’s settled. Let’s pay the tab and go get some yarn."

The two friends paid their bill and left the café, ready for their next adventure.