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The weather outside Kathleen Wells's inter-dimensional home was frightful, no matter which way the dial on her enchanted door was turned. Tempest, the Ancient of the Elements, had done his best to disaster-proof the place, but Mother Nature had her own plans. Despite the blustery chill, Kathleen hummed cheerfully as she prepared for a cozy coffee date. Hosting Maddie Masters, her cousin from Peace Valley, and Magdalene Masters from yet another alternate universe was no small feat—especially with so much they’d need to keep under wraps.
Kathleen double-checked her living room, grateful for the warmth and glow of the fireplace. When Mag arrived through the portal, dressed in a dark green sweater, black slacks, and ankle boots, she looked every bit as festive as the weather outside was not. Her auburn-and-plum hair was braided beautifully.
“Wow, you look great, Mag! And those cookies smell amazing,” Kathleen said with a grin as Mag handed her a tin of fresh-baked treats.
“You’re looking pretty cozy yourself! Love the soft pink sweater and those slipper boots,” Mag said, returning the smile. She also revealed a bouquet of vibrant, multicolored flowers from her garden. “These are for you. Thought they might brighten up the place a bit.”
Kathleen beamed. “Perfect! There’s a crystal vase in the living room you can use. Maddie should be here in about ten minutes. Feel free to freshen up if you want—the bathroom’s upstairs, first door on the right.”
As Mag headed up, Kathleen took a breath of relief. With the weather being so unpredictable, she hadn’t had time to bake, so the cookies were a welcome addition. Soon after, Maddie arrived, bundled tightly in a navy blue sweater, black pants, and cozy blue snow boots. She shivered as Kathleen helped her out of her coat.
“I didn’t think driving a few blocks would be so risky,” Maddie said, stamping the cold from her feet. “I was creeping along, just to be safe!”
“That sounds like a smart call,” Kathleen replied, smiling at her cousin’s warm attire. “Love that sweater. New?”
“Thanks! It’s actually a gift from my sister-in-law. First time I’ve worn it.” Maddie glanced around. “So where’s this friend of yours?”
Just then, Mag came down the stairs, smoothing her braid. “Here I am! Sorry for the wait; first impressions, you know.” She laughed, and the three women exchanged friendly hugs before settling into the living room, armed with steaming hot chocolate and Mag’s delicious cookies.
They chatted about the holidays first, sharing family stories. Mag kept things simple, explaining that her family lived near Madison, her husband was in business, and she had three kids. She used her children’s middle names to keep things easier, which worked well until Maddie noted with a laugh that it was funny Mag’s son was also named Vlad.
“My husband has a thing for vampires,” Mag quipped with a grin. “And as for my daughters, they’re each named in part after me—family tradition and all.”
After catching up on each other’s families, the conversation shifted to the new year, and the hopes and worries they each held. They didn’t dive too deep into politics, but the upcoming election and all the tension around it left them all feeling unsettled.
“I just hope things can settle down,” Maddie sighed. “It feels like every year, we’re a little closer to the edge.”
“Couldn’t agree more,” Mag said. “It’s like people have forgotten how to listen to each other.”
They paused, each lost in thought for a moment, before Kathleen changed the topic. “So, what else have you both been up to?”
Maddie shared how she and Vlad had been binge-watching a few shows in their rare downtime, and she was finally catching up on a long reading list. Kathleen talked about her blog, explaining that she was mulling over the next topic and wondering if she should write about how much effort it takes to maintain relationships—an idea Mag wholeheartedly agreed with.
“It’s perfect!” Mag said. “I mean, we’re all here right now, getting to know each other better and making sure everyone’s heard.”
The rest of the coffee date flew by in warmth and laughter. They eventually decided to watch Downton Abbey: A New Era as the storm calmed outside. By the end of the movie, the skies had cleared enough for each of them to head home safely. All in all, the little winter get-together had gone beautifully, and each of them left feeling a bit closer.