Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

The morning sun cast a warm glow over the bustling streets of Derry, illuminating the cobblestone paths as Erin Quinn, Michelle Mallon, Orla McCool, and Clare Devlin gathered at the bus station. It was a crisp September morning in 1998, the air charged with the promise of new beginnings and the thrill of what lay ahead. The girls stood out in their best outfits—Michelle, bold as ever, wore a brightly colored tartan skirt paired with a black leather jacket, exuding confidence; Erin was wrapped in an oversized cardigan that made her feel safe; Clare opted for a sensible blouse and skirt, looking every bit the diligent student; and Orla, as always, showcased her quirky style in a floral dress that seemed to have no relation to the rest of her ensemble.

“Are we really doing this?” Michelle crossed her arms defiantly, her expression a mix of excitement and anxiety. “I mean, it’s bloody Queens! They’re gonna eat us alive!”

“Shut up, Michelle,” Erin replied, rolling her eyes, her determination shining through. “We’re not going to let a bunch of posh twats intimidate us. We’re Derry girls; we’ll show them what we’re made of!”

Standing slightly apart from the group, James fidgeted with the straps of his new backpack, a nervous smile playing on his lips. He had opted for a simple T-shirt and jeans, hoping to blend in, but the anxiety was evident in his eyes. “I’m just glad to be here. How cool is it that we’re starting uni?” he said, his British accent tinged with an undercurrent of nerves.

As the bus rolled into view, its engine rumbling, the group climbed aboard, the atmosphere inside already buzzing with the chatter of students filled with their own hopes and dreams. They settled into a seat near the back, where the lingering scent of greasy chips from someone’s late-night snack clung to the air.

“You know, this is a massive deal,” Clare declared, smoothing down her blouse, her eyes bright with anticipation. “We’re all going to be part of history! This is the first year of the Good Friday Agreement!”

“Yeah, and we’re going to be part of it,” Michelle shot back with a mischievous smirk. “By getting absolutely hammered at the SU bar every night!”

“Or we could actually study,” Clare retorted, her tone half-serious as she flipped through her course materials. “I’m doing law. I’ll be a proper barrister, you know.”

James’s excitement bubbled over as he chimed in, “I’m going to be a bloody TV producer! I mean, how great is that? I could make it big!”

“Right, because you have all that experience,” Michelle quipped, raising an eyebrow. “With your three-minute short film about your cat.”

“Actually, it was about my cat’s struggles with existentialism!” James shot back defensively, a hint of pride creeping into his voice.

Erin struggled to stifle a laugh, the tension easing among them. “Honestly, you lot are mad. I’m just hoping to survive the first week without losing my mind. If I can write a decent essay for my creative writing course, I’ll be happy.”

As the bus rattled down the road to Belfast, the mood shifted. The nervous energy dissipated, replaced by their shared stories, inside jokes, and laughter echoing through the air, creating a sense of camaraderie that made the journey feel exhilarating.

Arriving at Queen’s University, they were greeted by the vibrant energy of students from all walks of life. Erin’s heart raced with excitement, but as her eyes swept over the crowd, they landed on a girl sitting alone on a bench outside the arts building, her presence sparking an unexpected twinge of envy.

“Who’s that?” Erin whispered, her gaze lingering a moment too long.

“Looks like a right posh one,” Michelle commented, squinting at the girl. “Must be in the wrong place.”

“Let’s go say hello!” Orla suggested, ever the peacekeeper. Before anyone could voice their objections, she marched over, her enthusiasm contagious. “Hi! I’m Orla, I’m new here!” she chirped, her voice bright.

The girl looked up from her notebook, a light laughter escaping her lips. “I’m Christina. I’m from Dublin. And I’m guessing by your accents, you’re from Derry?”

“Yeah, we are!” Clare replied, her intrigue piqued. “I’m Clare, and this is Erin, Michelle, and James.”

“Well, James is English, but he’s one of us now,” Erin added, shooting James a playful grin.

The group chatted easily, sharing snippets about their courses. “Ah, Erin, I’m also doing creative writing and English Literature,” Christina said with a warm smile, her curly hair bouncing as she spoke. 

“Do you write?” Erin asked, her curiosity piqued.

“I’ve written a few short stories. Won a couple of competitions, too,” Christina replied, her eyes lighting up with enthusiasm.

“Nice one!” James interjected, his admiration evident as he leaned forward. “What are your stories about?”

“Oh, you know, the usual—family, identity, growing up. All that shite,” Christina laughed, her Dublin accent rolling off her tongue like music, drawing the group in.

Michelle leaned back in her seat, a mischievous grin spreading across her face. “So, James, you fancy her then, eh?”

“What? No!” James blushed, caught off guard. “I just think she’s interesting.”

“Right, and I’m the Queen of England,” Michelle shot back, her eyes sparkling with mischief.

Erin felt a pang in her chest, a feeling she couldn’t quite place. Why did it bother her that James seemed so taken with Christina? 

The group decided to head to orientation together with Christina, but as they walked, Erin couldn’t shake her unease. She kept glancing at James, who was animatedly discussing film techniques, his excitement apparent. Meanwhile, Erin tried to brush aside her feelings of apprehension and jealousy, reminding herself that she had nothing to worry about. After all, they were all just friends.

But as the day unfolded, Erin’s heart whispered otherwise.

Chapter Text

James POV
James took a deep breath as he stepped into the bustling student union that night, the pulsating music and the chatter of excited students creating an electric atmosphere. He spotted his friends at a large table in the corner, laughter spilling over as he approached. But his gaze quickly drifted to Christina, who sat next to Erin, her presence brightening the room. There was something magnetic about her—her laughter, her confidence, the way she effortlessly captured everyone’s attention.

“Oi! James!” Michelle waved him over, a pint in hand. “You’re late! Were you busy swooning over our new Dublin girl?”

James felt his cheeks heat up. “Yeah, right,” he retorted, though a part of him couldn’t deny the flutter in his stomach whenever he thought of Christina. She was different—funny, smart, and unafraid to speak her mind.

As he settled into his seat, the banter flowed naturally, but James found himself drawn to Christina more than ever. She had a way of engaging him, pulling him into conversations that felt meaningful. When she smiled, it felt as if the whole world faded, leaving just the two of them in their own little bubble.

Later that evening, after a few drinks, the group began to break into smaller conversations. James found himself sitting next to Christina, their shoulders nearly touching, the music fading into a soft hum around them.

“Did you have a good time tonight?” he asked, trying to keep the conversation light.

“It was brilliant!” Christina replied, her eyes sparkling. “You lot know how to have a laugh.”

James felt a warmth spread through him. “We try our best. It’s hard not to with a bunch like us. How about you? What do you think of uni so far?”

Christina took a sip of her drink, her expression shifting slightly. “It’s… different. I mean, it’s great, but there are days when I feel like I’m just putting on a show.”

“Putting on a show?” James echoed, intrigued. “What do you mean?”

She paused, her gaze drifting to the crowd before returning to him. “Well, my family situation isn’t exactly a walk in the park. My parents are divorced, and my dad’s off living his best life with his new family in Dublin while my mum’s… well, let’s just say her taste in boyfriends isn’t the greatest.”

James nodded, sensing the weight of her words. “That sounds tough. I’m sorry.”

“Thanks,” Christina replied, her voice softening. “I don’t usually talk about it. I prefer to just focus on college and the whole ‘fresh start’ vibe, you know?”

“I get that,” he said, feeling a sudden urge to share. “I’m not exactly a poster child for stability myself. My mum left me in Derry with my aunt when I was younger. It’s just been me trying to find my way since then. I get what you mean about putting on a show; sometimes, it feels like that’s all we have.”

“Right?” Christina smiled, a mixture of sadness and understanding in her eyes. “Like, we just have to keep smiling and pretending everything is fine, even when it’s not.”

James leaned closer, encouraged by her honesty. “Exactly! I feel like everyone expects me to just be this happy-go-lucky guy, but I’m just trying to keep my head above water.”

“Sometimes I think it’s easier to let people assume the best rather than risk showing them the worst,” Christina mused, her expression thoughtful. “Like, you don’t want them to see the cracks, you know?”

“Yeah, I know,” James replied, his heart racing as he realized how easy it was to connect with her. “But I think it’s okay to show those cracks every once in a while.”

Christina looked at him, her expression softening. “You’re a good guy, James. I’m glad we met.”

He felt a thrill at her words, warmth spreading through him. “Me too,” he said, a bit shyly. “I mean, you’re brilliant, and I really enjoy talking to you.”

Just then, Michelle popped up from across the table, a knowing smirk on her face. “Oi! You two! Are you having a secret love affair over there, or what?”

James’ face burned as he shot Michelle an annoyed look, while Christina laughed, the sound melodic and infectious.

“Shut it, Michelle,” he said, trying to maintain a façade of coolness. But inside, he felt the flutter of something new—a spark of interest that was both exciting and terrifying.

The conversation shifted back to lighthearted teasing, but James felt a newfound connection with Christina, one that lingered in the back of his mind even as the night wore on. As the laughter continued, he couldn’t shake the feeling that their shared vulnerabilities had forged a bond between them—one that he was eager to explore further.

****Meanwhile *****

The party was in full swing. The student union bar was packed with bodies swaying to a mixture of Britpop and club classics, the smell of cheap beer filling the air. Erin, Michelle, Clare, and Orla had taken their usual spot in the corner, half-watching the crowd and half-absorbed in their own conversation. Erin tried to focus on Clare’s story about some law student who’d been stealing all the library books, but her gaze kept drifting across the room to James and Christina.

They were standing near the edge of the bar, talking intently, their heads close together. Christina laughed, her curly hair bouncing as she leaned toward James, and Erin felt another pang of jealousy stab through her.

“Jesus Christ, will you look at the state of him,” Michelle drawled, taking a swig of her beer. “The thoughts of my cousin actually having a girlfriend makes me want to boke.” She glanced at Erin with a smirk, but it quickly faded when she noticed Erin’s clenched jaw. “Oi, you alright there?”

Erin quickly wiped the frown off her face. “Fine, I’m grand,” she said, though her voice lacked conviction.

Clare, who’d been sipping her drink quietly, glanced over at James and Christina. “Do you think she’ll date him?” she asked, her curiosity piqued. “I mean, they seem really close.”

Michelle snorted. “Close? Sure, he’s practically drooling every time she speaks. I give it a week before he’s writing her soppy love notes. Imagine James, of all people, being romantic—makes me sick.”

Orla, oblivious to the tension, popped her head up from her drink. “I think it’s nice! James deserves a bit of romance. Maybe she’ll take him to Dublin and they’ll have babies.”

Erin felt a wave of nausea wash over her. Babies? Jesus. I can’t even think about him kissing her, let alone babies. She forced a laugh, trying to keep her voice light. “Yeah, well, good for him, I suppose. Christina’s got that whole *cool girl* thing going on.”

Michelle leaned in, narrowing her eyes at James and Christina, who were now laughing over something. “Oh, for feck’s sake, they’re probably talking about existentialism or some other shite. They both need to lighten up. I met a lad she introduced me to last week, though. Good ride, that one. Might see if she has any more friends I can wade through.

Clare gasped, her face turning pink. “Michelle! You can’t just say things like that!”

“I just did, didn’t I?” Michelle grinned, clearly enjoying Clare’s discomfort.

Erin glanced at Michelle, wishing for once she could just stay quiet. The more Michelle talked about Christina, the more Erin’s jealousy simmered beneath the surface. The way James looked at her, his face lighting up every time she said something—it was like he was enchanted by her. Erin hated it.

The laughter between James and Christina grew quieter, and they now seemed to be having a more serious conversation. Erin watched as James leaned in even closer, his hand brushing against Christina’s arm. Her chest tightened, the scene playing out like a slow-motion nightmare.

She glanced down, hoping that if she stopped looking, the jealousy gnawing at her would fade. But Michelle, who’d been watching her carefully, nudged her with an elbow.

“Oi, you’re about to crack your glass there, Erin. Relax,” Michelle said, but her voice was softer than usual. She could see Erin’s growing frustration. “You’re jealous, aren’t you?”

“I’m not,” Erin muttered, her fingers gripping the pint glass tighter.

“Oh, come off it. You’re ready to tear Christina’s hair out.”

Erin’s lips pressed into a thin line. “I’m not jealous. I just didn’t expect him to be all over her like that. Especially after…” She trailed off, her mind flashing back to that summer in Donegal. The old house, the way James had kissed her, the way things had seemed to shift between them—but nothing had come of it. It was like it had all been in her head.

Michelle’s face softened. “After what happened in Donegal?”

Erin nodded, glancing up just in time to see James lean in and kiss Christina. It was subtle, almost natural, the way James leaned in and kissed Christina. It wasn’t overly dramatic, but it was full of affection, the kind of kiss that said this wasn’t just a passing moment.Erin’s chest tightened, her breath catching in her throat. He kissed her.
It wasn’t a long kiss, but it was enough to send a bolt of pain shooting through Erin’s chest. She looked away, blinking rapidly to keep the tears at bay.

Michelle cursed under her breath. “Feck. Alright, come on, let’s go get some air.” She grabbed Erin by the arm, pulling her away from the table and out toward the back of the student union, where the cool night air hit them like a slap.

Erin took a deep breath, trying to steady herself. She hated that she was reacting like this, hated that she cared so much. “I don’t even know why I’m upset,” she said quietly. “I don’t even know if I like him like that.”

Michelle crossed her arms, leaning against the brick wall. “Look, it’s alright to be confused. But you need to figure it out, Erin. If you do fancy him, maybe you should just tell him. At least that way, you won’t be sitting here like a sap watching him snog some other girl.”

“I can’t,” Erin shook her head, her voice small. “It’s too late. He’s already with her now, and I don’t even know if I really want him. I just… I thought maybe after Donegal, something might happen between us.”

“And it didn’t,” Michelle finished. “But that doesn’t mean it never will. You deserve to be happy too, you know. You can’t just sit around waiting for him forever.”

Erin looked down at her feet, her heart heavy. “I know. Maybe I just need to let it go. Maybe he’s not meant to be mine. And if he is, well… he’ll come back to me, won’t he?”

Michelle shrugged, her voice surprisingly gentle. “Maybe he will. But you need to do what’s best for you. Don’t sit here torturing yourself over it. Either tell him how you feel or move on.”

Erin nodded, feeling a strange sense of relief. “Maybe you’re right. Maybe it’s time I stopped waiting.”

Michelle gave her a rare, supportive smile. “Good. Now, how about we get back in there and show them we don’t need any of this shite to have a good time?”

Erin smiled back, her resolve strengthening. “Yeah. Let’s go.”

James POV

James leaned against the bar, half-listening to the thrum of the music and half-lost in the moment. Christina was talking about her latest creative writing project, but his mind had drifted back to their earlier conversation. The party was buzzing around them, but all he could think about was what she’d shared.

The conversation had flowed from there, easing back into lighter topics—their courses, mutual frustrations with pretentious lecturers, and, somehow, a debate about the best places to get chips after a night out in Belfast.

But now, as he looked at her, standing there with her easy laugh and effortless charm, something clicked into place for him. This wasn’t just a passing crush. He felt drawn to Christina in a way that was hard to ignore. She was open, funny, and shared parts of herself that he hadn’t expected.

“Christina,” James said, his voice lowering slightly. She looked at him, eyebrows raised in question, and for a second, he hesitated. He thought about Erin, about that kiss they’d shared in Donegal months ago. It had been unexpected, soft, and brief, but nothing had come of it since. He knew Erin was different, but with Christina… it felt like there was something real happening now, something he couldn’t just push aside.

Before he could overthink it, he leaned in, and to his relief, Christina met him halfway. Their lips touched, and it was soft, tentative at first, but then she kissed him back, her hand gently touching his arm.

It wasn’t fireworks, but it was something steady, something sure. For the first time in a long while, James felt like he was exactly where he was supposed to be.

When they pulled back, there was a moment of silence between them, their faces close. Christina smiled, a little shy but also pleased. “Well, that was unexpected,” she teased.

James laughed, feeling the weight of the moment settle. “Yeah, but… it felt right.”

He glanced around, his stomach sinking when he caught sight of Erin across the room. She was standing with Michelle, who was talking to her quietly, but Erin’s face was pale, her lips pressed tight. Shit. She saw. Guilt gnawed at him, but he couldn’t deny the truth stirring in his chest.

He cared about Erin—he really did—but what he felt for Christina was different. It was something new, something he couldn’t ignore. He wished he could make things easier, but he knew he couldn’t lie to himself.

Christina nudged him lightly. “You okay? You look like you’ve just been caught doing something illegal.”

James gave a half-smile, though his heart wasn’t fully in it. “Yeah, I’m fine. Just… I didn’t expect this.”

“You mean us?” Christina asked, her eyes searching his.

“Yeah,” James admitted, his voice soft. “It’s kind of… different, isn’t it?”

Christina smiled, her eyes crinkling at the corners. “Yeah, maybe it is.”

He felt the guilt twist in his gut again. Erin. Donegal. The way she looked at me back then. But he couldn’t go back. What he had with Erin was important, but it wasn’t this. Not now, not with Christina standing in front of him, pulling him into her world with that easy charm and understanding.

He took a deep breath, deciding to focus on the moment. Whatever was going to happen with Erin, he would have to deal with it later. Right now, Christina was here, and James knew this was something he couldn’t walk away from.

He felt a pull toward Christina, something that felt bigger than anything he’d felt before. But that nagging voice in the back of his head kept whispering Erin—and no matter how hard he tried to ignore it, he knew things with her would never be the same again.

Chapter Text

The next few weeks passed in a blur for Erin. She spent her days burying herself in books, class assignments, and awkwardly dodging her friends whenever James and Christina were around. She didn’t want to talk about the kiss—she couldn’t. It hurt more than she expected. Seeing them together, watching the way James smiled at Christina like she was the only person in the room, made her stomach twist.

Erin had gotten good at making excuses. "I've got a study group," she'd say, or, "I need to finish this essay." And while Clare, Orla, and Michelle had noticed her absence, they didn’t push too hard. They knew Erin needed space. But Michelle, of course, wasn’t one to let anything slide for long.

"You're really gonna keep avoiding us forever, Erin?" Michelle had asked during a rare moment when it was just the two of them. They were walking home after class, the air heavy with the crisp chill of October.

Erin shrugged, her gaze fixed on the pavement. "I’m not avoiding anyone. I’m just busy."

"Ach, bollocks," Michelle snorted. "You've been busy since the night James kissed Christina. Don't think we haven't noticed."

Erin’s face flushed, but she kept her mouth shut, hoping Michelle would drop it.

Michelle, of course, didn’t. “Look, I get it. You’re upset. But you’re gonna have to talk to him at some point. You can't avoid your best mate just because he's got a girlfriend.”

The word *girlfriend* sent a jolt through Erin, but she swallowed it down. “I’m not avoiding him,” she lied. “I just… I need time, okay?”

Michelle raised an eyebrow, clearly not buying it, but she let it go—for now.

**********

Meanwhile, James had picked up on Erin’s absence too. He knew something was off but hadn’t quite put the pieces together. One evening, after grabbing a pint with Michelle at a quiet pub, he decided to ask.

"Michelle, is Erin... I dunno, is she okay?" James asked, swirling the amber liquid in his glass. "She’s been kind of distant."

Michelle sighed, slouching back in her chair, eyeing him with that familiar "are you serious?" look. "You really don’t get it, do you?"

James frowned. "Get what?"

"Erin’s upset, James," Michelle said, as if it were the most obvious thing in the world. “She’s been avoiding us ever since you and Christina started getting close.”

James blinked, taken aback. “But why would she be upset? Erin’s never said anything—about, you know, having feelings or—”

Michelle rolled her eyes. “Of course she didn’t say anything, ya eejit! She probably didn’t even know how she felt until she saw you with Christina. Look, I know Erin, and I know when something's bothering her. And trust me, mate, she’s bothered.”

James fell silent, processing Michelle’s words. He felt a pang of guilt. He hadn’t meant to hurt Erin, but things with Christina had just... happened.

“I didn’t think Erin—” He paused, rubbing the back of his neck. “I mean, we kissed that one time in Donegal, but it didn’t seem like it meant anything. Not like that, at least.”

Michelle snorted. “Yeah, well, maybe it didn’t back then. But now? Seeing you with someone else? That’s a whole other story.”

James let out a heavy breath, his mind swirling. He didn’t want to hurt Erin, but he also couldn’t deny what he felt for Christina. “It’s just... Christina and I, we get each other, you know? It’s different. Her family’s a mess, like mine. She understands things I can’t even explain to most people.”

Michelle raised an eyebrow. “What, and Erin doesn’t?”

“It’s not like that,” James said quickly. “It’s just... Christina and I connect in this way that I didn’t expect. It’s easy with her. And I think—” He hesitated, the words heavy on his tongue. “I think I want to ask her to be my girlfriend.”

Michelle’s expression softened, her usual teasing demeanor replaced with something almost serious. “Are you sure about that, James? I mean, it’s Christina, not some random girl you’re having a laugh with.”

“I am,” he said quietly, his thoughts crystalizing as he spoke them aloud. “It’s different with her. We talk about everything—family, our pasts... all the crap we’ve been through. I just... I really like her.”

Michelle leaned back, considering him for a moment before sighing. “Well, if you’re serious about this, then you’ve gotta tell Erin the truth. She deserves that, at least.”

James nodded, the weight of the situation settling heavily on his shoulders. He didn’t want to lose Erin as a friend, but he couldn’t ignore his feelings for Christina. It wasn’t supposed to be this complicated, he thought. But life, as always, had other plans.

“Yeah,” he said finally. “You’re right. I’ll talk to her.

************

The late afternoon sun hung low in the sky, casting long shadows across the Queen’s University campus. Erin walked slowly, clutching her books to her chest as the cool autumn breeze nipped at her cheeks. She had been avoiding this moment for weeks—dodging James, keeping her distance at parties, and pretending to be busy whenever Christina was around. But she knew, deep down, that she couldn’t keep running forever. So when she received James’s message asking to meet, she reluctantly agreed.

She spotted him near the university’s old library, standing under a tree, hands shoved deep in his pockets. He looked nervous, shuffling his feet and glancing around as if unsure of how to start the conversation. Erin’s heart tightened at the sight of him—James, her best mate, the boy she’d shared so much with. The boy who, not too long ago, had kissed her in Donegal and made her wonder if there might be something more between them.

She approached him slowly, feeling the weight of the unspoken words between them.

“Hey,” James said softly, breaking the silence.

“Hey,” Erin replied, her voice quiet. She shifted on her feet, hugging her books tighter to her chest. “You, uh… wanted to talk?”

James nodded, his gaze flickering down to the ground before meeting hers. “Yeah. I wanted to talk to you about... everything.”

Erin raised an eyebrow. “Everything?”

James sighed, running a hand through his hair. “Look, I know you’ve been avoiding me, and I get it. I just... I didn’t realize how much I’d hurt you.”

Erin looked away, her chest tightening. “You didn’t hurt me, James,” she lied, the words coming out sharper than she intended. “I mean, it’s not like we were...”

James took a step closer, his voice low and filled with regret. “Erin, I know you’re upset. I should’ve talked to you sooner. I just—everything with Christina happened so fast, and I didn’t even think about how it would affect you.”

Erin swallowed hard, her throat tight. “Why would it affect me? You kissed me once, James. Once. And then nothing happened.”

James flinched at her words, guilt flashing across his face. “I know, and I’m sorry. I didn’t mean for things to get so complicated.”

Erin let out a bitter laugh, shaking her head. “Complicated? James, I just thought...” She paused, struggling to find the right words. “I don’t even know what I thought. After Donegal, I guess I thought maybe...”

“Maybe we had something?” James finished, his voice soft.

Erin nodded, not trusting herself to speak. The vulnerability in her eyes was clear, and for a moment, James felt a pang of guilt so deep that it almost made him want to take everything back—to undo every kiss he’d shared with Christina, every moment they’d spent together.

But he couldn’t.

“I’m sorry, Erin,” he said again, his voice barely above a whisper. “I didn’t mean to lead you on. I didn’t know back then. But now... now I’m sure. I’ve got this connection with Christina. We’ve talked about so much—our families, our pasts. She gets me in a way that I didn’t expect. And I can’t just ignore that.”

Erin’s heart sank at his words, but she held herself together, refusing to let the tears spill. She had known this was coming—had felt it deep in her bones for weeks—but hearing James say it out loud made it all the more real.

“I get it,” she said, her voice tight. “You and Christina... it’s something real. I’m happy for you.”

James frowned, sensing the hurt behind her words. “Erin, I don’t want to lose you. You’re my best friend, and I—”

“Stop,” Erin interrupted, her voice trembling. “Just stop, James. I don’t want to hear about how I’m your best friend when I’m standing here feeling like I’m not enough.”

James’s eyes widened, the weight of her words hitting him hard. “You *are* enough, Erin. You’ve always been enough.”

“Then why does it feel like you’re slipping away?” Erin asked, her voice breaking. “Ever since Christina came into the picture, it feels like... I don’t know. Like I’m losing you.”

James reached out, gently placing a hand on her arm. “You’re not losing me, Erin. I promise. Things might be different now, but I’m always going to be here for you. You’re still the most important person in my life.”

Erin shook her head, tears welling up despite her best efforts to hold them back. “It’s not the same, James. It’s never going to be the same.”

The two stood there in silence, the distance between them growing even as they stood only a few feet apart. Erin could feel the finality of it settling in, like a chapter of her life was closing, and no matter how much she wanted to stop it, she couldn’t.

“I’ll be fine,” Erin said quietly, wiping away a stray tear. “You and Christina... you deserve to be happy. And I’ll... I’ll figure things out.”

James opened his mouth to say something, but the words caught in his throat. He knew that nothing he could say would make this any easier. All he could do was hope that, in time, things between them would heal.

“Are we okay?” he asked, his voice small and uncertain.

Erin took a deep breath, meeting his gaze. “I don’t know, James. I really don’t know.”

With that, she turned and walked away, leaving James standing alone under the fading autumn sun. He watched her go, his heart heavy with the realization that things between them would never be the same again. But as much as it hurt, he knew deep down that it was Christina he wanted—no matter how much it cost him.

********
The following week, Erin continued her silent retreat. She avoided the usual lunch spots, skipped out on the evening pub meet-ups, and found a million reasons not to be where her friends were. It didn’t go unnoticed. Clare, Orla, and especially Michelle had started to get concerned, though in true Michelle fashion, she wasn’t about to let Erin mope around without giving her a piece of her mind.

One afternoon, Michelle had had enough. She cornered Erin in the university courtyard, grabbing her by the arm and steering her toward a bench.

“Right, enough of this shite, Erin,” Michelle started, her tone unrelenting. “You’re actin’ like a total gobshite, avoiding all of us just ‘cause James is with Christina.”

Erin crossed her arms defensively, avoiding Michelle’s piercing gaze. “I’m not avoiding anyone. I’ve just been busy.”

“Busy?” Michelle scoffed. “Busy bein’ miserable, more like! You’re lettin’ this whole thing with James and Christina wreck your head, and it’s pathetic, Erin. Seriously.”

Erin’s face flushed with anger, but she stayed quiet, biting back the sharp retort on the tip of her tongue. Michelle wasn’t one for tact, but her bluntness sometimes cut right to the truth.

“It’s not that simple,” Erin muttered. “You wouldn’t understand.”

Michelle raised an eyebrow. “Wouldn’t I? I know exactly what’s goin’ on in that head of yours. You think you lost James—like, he was yours to lose in the first place. But let me tell you somethin’, Erin, people aren’t possessions. You don’t own James.”

Erin winced, the words hitting harder than she expected. She turned away, blinking back tears.

“Look,” Michelle continued, softening slightly. “I know it’s shite. Seein’ him with someone else, feelin’ like you’re bein’ left behind. But this wallowin’ around in self-pity? It’s beneath you, Erin. You’re better than this.”

Clare and Orla approached, sensing the tension between their friends but determined to help.

"Michelle's right, Erin," Clare said, her voice gentler but still firm. "You can’t keep shutting us out. We’re all here for you, even if things are different now."

Orla chimed in, ever the optimist. "And who knows? Maybe James isn’t with Christina forever. Maybe it’s just a phase. You and James have a bond that’s not going away."

Erin huffed, her frustration bubbling to the surface. “It’s not about them being together. It’s about… everything. I thought maybe, after Donegal, that James and I had something. But now it’s like I don’t even exist to him anymore.”

Michelle shook her head, her voice resolute. “That’s where you’re wrong, Erin. You’ve always been part of his world, and you always will be. But maybe it’s time you figure out what *you* want. You can’t spend your whole life waitin’ around for James to notice you.”

Erin stayed silent, her emotions swirling inside her. She knew her friends were right, but the pain of seeing James with someone else—someone who wasn’t her—was almost unbearable.

“I just need to think,” Erin finally whispered, pulling her arms tighter around herself.

---

Later that evening, Erin found herself back home, the familiar smell of her mammy’s cooking filling the kitchen as she sat at the table, picking at her dinner. Her mammy, Mary, was no fool. She’d noticed Erin’s quietness the moment she stepped through the door.

“Erin, love, you’ve hardly touched your food. What’s wrong?” Mary asked, sitting down across from her daughter, her eyes full of concern.

Erin shrugged, keeping her gaze on her plate. “Nothing, Mammy. Just uni stuff.”

“Uni stuff?” Mary repeated, her tone skeptical. “You’ve never been one to keep things bottled up, Erin. Now, I know when somethin’s weighin’ heavy on ya. Come on, out with it.”

Erin sighed, her shoulders slumping. There was no point in hiding it from her mammy. She always saw through her.

“It’s James,” Erin admitted quietly. “He’s with Christina now, and I dunno… I just feel like everything’s changing.”

Mary sat back, crossing her arms. “James, eh? That boy’s always been a bit of a mystery, hasn’t he? But I didn’t realize you had feelings for him.”

“I don’t know if I do, Mammy,” Erin said, her voice shaky. “I thought I did. I mean, we kissed that time in Donegal, and I thought maybe he felt the same. But now, seeing him with Christina, it just... it hurts.”

Mary nodded thoughtfully. “Aye, love, matters of the heart are tricky, aren’t they? But here’s the thing—you can’t control how someone else feels. You can only control how *you* deal with it.”

Erin blinked, her throat tight. “What am I supposed to do, Mammy? It feels like I’ve lost him.”

“Lost him?” Mary’s eyebrows shot up. “You haven’t lost him, Erin. He’s still your friend. And maybe that’s all he’ll ever be. But ask yourself this: are you upset because you love James, or are you upset because you feel like you’re missing out on something? There’s a big difference between the two.”

Erin stayed quiet, Mary’s words sinking in. She hadn’t really thought about it that way. Maybe it wasn’t so much about James as it was about the fear of losing him to someone else. The fear of things changing, of being left behind.

“You’re young, Erin,” Mary continued. “There’s no rush to figure everything out right now. You’ve got your whole life ahead of you, love. If James is meant to be more than a friend, then it’ll happen when it’s supposed to. But don’t hold yourself back waitin’ for something that might never come. You deserve happiness, too.”

Erin felt the weight of her mammy’s words, the knot in her chest loosening just a bit. Maybe she had been holding on too tightly, clinging to the idea of James rather than the reality of their friendship. And maybe, just maybe, it was time to let go.

“Thanks, Mammy,” Erin whispered, a small smile tugging at her lips.

Mary smiled back, reaching across the table to squeeze her hand. “Anytime, love. And remember, no matter what happens, you’re stronger than you think. Don’t let anyone—James, Christina, or anyone else—make you forget that.”

Erin nodded, feeling a newfound clarity. Maybe things with James and Christina would work out, or maybe they wouldn’t. But either way, she couldn’t keep hiding from her feelings—or from her friends.

It was time to face the world again.

Chapter Text

The late afternoon sun poured into the classroom, casting long shadows across the worn wooden desks as Erin Quinn gathered her things after a long day of lectures. The chatter of students slowly faded as they filtered out, and she lingered, lost in thought.

She had spent the last few days trying to keep her mind busy, throwing herself into her coursework and hanging out with Clare and Orla, but the lingering ache of her feelings for James was hard to shake. Now that she’d talked to her mammy, Erin felt a newfound sense of clarity, but it didn’t mean everything was resolved.

Just as she was about to leave, she spotted Christina lingering by the door, her expression a mix of apprehension and concern. Erin noticed her fidgeting with the straps of her bag, a telltale sign of distress.

“Hey, Christina,” Erin said, forcing a smile to ease the tension. “Everything alright?”

Christina hesitated, biting her lip. “Can we talk for a sec?” she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

“Of course,” Erin replied, her heart racing as they stepped into the corridor. She sensed that this was going to be a delicate conversation.

“I just wanted to check in with you,” Christina began, her brows knitted together. “I feel like I might have broken girl code or something. I really like James, but I… I didn’t know if you two were together or if there was something between you.”

Erin blinked, taken aback. She hadn’t expected Christina to be so distressed. “Oh, no, you haven’t broken any code,” she said quickly, raising her hands in a placating gesture. “James and I… we were never really together. We had a moment, but it was just a kiss. That’s it.”

“Really?” Christina asked, relief washing over her features. “I thought maybe I had ruined something, and I’d feel awful about that. I just like him so much, and I didn’t want to come between you two.”

Erin felt a pang of guilt for not having clarified sooner. “I’m sorry if I made you feel that way. You have every right to like him, Christina. He’s… well, he’s great. You shouldn’t feel bad about that.”

Christina looked down, her curly hair falling over her eyes as she took a deep breath. “Thanks for saying that. It’s just been a bit confusing, and I’m really just trying to find my footing here. I don’t want to step on anyone’s toes.”

“You’re not,” Erin reassured her, feeling a bit more at ease. “Honestly, I think you and James have a connection. I want you both to be happy. So if you really like him, go for it.”

Christina smiled, a hint of gratitude in her eyes. “Thanks, Erin. That means a lot. I just really didn’t want to mess things up between us.”

As they chatted, Erin began to feel a genuine friendship budding between them, and it felt good to clear the air. “You’re not messing anything up,” she said, a small smile forming on her lips. “And if you want to talk about anything, I’m here.”

“Really? That would be great,” Christina replied, her smile brightening. “I appreciate it.”

After their conversation, Erin felt a weight lift from her chest. She hadn’t expected it to be so easy to communicate openly with Christina. They exchanged a few more pleasantries before parting ways, and Erin decided it was time to talk to James next.

With determination in her step, Erin made her way across campus to the student union, where she hoped to find James. The usual crowd filled the room, laughter and chatter echoing off the walls, but her focus was on one person.

Spotting him at a table with Michelle and Orla, her heart raced. They were deep in conversation, but James looked up as she approached, his eyes brightening.

“Hey, Erin!” he greeted, a warm smile spreading across his face. “How was class?”

“Hey, James,” she replied, her voice steadier than she felt. “Can we talk for a minute?”

“Sure! What’s up?” He motioned for her to sit down, and the others fell silent, sensing the shift in mood.

“Um, I just wanted to apologize,” Erin started, her heart pounding. “I spoke to Christina earlier, and I realized I hadn’t cleared things up with her about us, or rather, about what happened. I never meant for her to feel like she was stepping on toes. I was still figuring things out myself.”

James looked surprised but grateful. “Oh, don’t worry about it, Erin. I really appreciate you talking to her. She’s been feeling a bit uneasy, and I think it helped put her at ease.”

“Really? I’m glad to hear that,” Erin said, feeling a rush of relief. “I just wanted you both to be happy. And I didn’t want my feelings to complicate things.”

“Honestly, it means a lot that you’re okay with it,” James replied, his tone sincere. “I didn’t want to choose between you two or make things awkward. You both are important to me.”

Erin felt a warm flutter in her chest at his words, but she pushed it aside. “Well, I’m glad we talked,” she said, her smile genuine. “Just make sure to keep it real, yeah? No drama.”

“Wouldn’t dream of it,” James grinned, the atmosphere lightening. “Thanks for being such a good mate, Erin.”

As they continued their conversation, Erin felt a sense of relief wash over her. Maybe things were shifting, but she was beginning to see that it didn’t have to be a competition. Perhaps James and Christina were meant to be together, and Erin could find her own happiness alongside them.

***********

The air had cooled significantly since that conversation with her mammy. Erin felt lighter now, like she’d shed a layer of unnecessary weight. She had taken Mary’s advice to heart, realizing that James wasn’t hers to lose or win. He was just James—her friend, and nothing more. It was time to stop avoiding him, to stop avoiding everyone.

Over the next few days, Erin began to weave herself back into the group. She was tentative at first, joining in on lunchtime conversations with Clare, Orla, and Michelle, and sitting with them at the back of the bus on the way to uni. James and Christina were usually with them, and Erin was careful to act casual, refusing to let her old jealousy show.

One Friday afternoon, as they lounged in the student union, chatting about the upcoming weekend, Erin suddenly had an idea.

“Why don’t you all come over to mine this weekend?” she suggested, a hint of excitement in her voice. “We haven’t had a proper hangout at my place in ages. We can watch some old films, get takeaway, just like old times.”

The group looked at each other, nodding in agreement.

“That sounds class,” Orla said with her usual enthusiasm. “I’ll bring snacks!”

“Count me in,” Clare added, ever the responsible one. “But no scary movies, Erin. You know how I get.”

Erin laughed, remembering the last time Clare had tried to watch a horror film and had to sleep with the lights on for a week.

Then Erin’s gaze shifted to Christina, who had been listening quietly but smiling. Taking a deep breath, Erin made the decision. “Christina, you should come too,” she said, offering her a warm smile. “Why don’t you stay over at mine? We’ve got plenty of space.”

Christina looked surprised, her eyes lighting up. “Ah, that sounds deadly! I’d love to,” she replied, her Dublin accent as lively as ever. “Are you sure, though? I don’t want to intrude.”

“You’re not intruding,” Erin assured her. “It’ll be fun. We’ll all hang out, have a laugh.”

Michelle grinned, nudging Erin in the ribs. “Look at you, Quinn. Makin’ peace with the enemy,” she teased, though her tone was playful. “This is gonna be mad.”

“Shut up, Michelle,” Erin said, rolling her eyes but smiling despite herself.

*********

By the time Friday evening rolled around, Erin was feeling more at ease. Her house was warm and cozy, the fire crackling in the hearth as she set out bowls of crisps and sweets in the living room. Christina arrived early, a duffel bag slung over her shoulder, looking slightly apprehensive.

“Hope you like chaos,” Erin said, opening the door with a grin. “My house is always a bit of a madhouse.”

Christina laughed, stepping inside. “Ah, don’t worry about it. I grew up with a mad family too. This’ll be grand.”

They made their way into the living room, and for the first time, Erin felt a genuine connection forming with Christina. There was no awkwardness, no lingering jealousy. They chatted easily as they set up the snacks, talking about their courses, their shared love of writing, and even their hometowns—Derry and Dublin, two cities with more in common than they’d realized.

“I never really got used to being in Belfast,” Christina admitted, plopping down on the couch. “It’s so different from home. But I’m gettin’ there.”

Erin nodded, understanding completely. “It’s not easy, is it? Feels like we’re in this weird in-between, where we’re not fully home but not fully settled here either.”

Christina looked at her with a soft smile. “Exactly. Feels good to have people like you lot around, though. Makes it easier.”

Before long, the others arrived, filling the house with laughter and noise. Clare was fretting over her law textbooks, Orla was rummaging through the fridge for snacks, and Michelle had already sprawled out on the couch, complaining about her latest romantic escapade.

“Met this fella at the pub last night,” Michelle was saying as she took a swig from her can of Coke. “He was dead sound, and let’s just say it was a *good* night.”

“Michelle!” Clare gasped, her face reddening. “We don’t need the details!”

Erin and Christina exchanged amused glances, both laughing at Michelle’s lack of filter.

James arrived a little later, and though Erin had been worried about how she’d feel seeing him with Christina again, the evening passed without any of the old tension. She caught James’s eye once or twice and shared small smiles with him, but for the first time in weeks, it didn’t hurt. She didn’t feel left out or like she was losing him. In fact, as she watched him and Christina, she saw something she hadn’t before—how happy they seemed together.

When the movie started, they all settled into their usual spots, the warmth of the fire and the soft glow of the television casting a cozy atmosphere over the room. Erin sat next to Christina, with Michelle and Orla on the other couch, and Clare perched on the armchair with a blanket draped over her lap.

As the film played, Erin found herself relaxing more than she had in weeks. The easy banter flowed, and for once, everything felt normal again. It wasn’t the same as before—James was with Christina, and that was different—but it wasn’t bad. In fact, it felt like something new, something Erin could get used to.

By the time the credits rolled, the group was in stitches over Michelle’s sarcastic commentary, and Clare had fallen asleep halfway through, as usual. Christina stretched, yawning.

“Thanks for invitin’ me, Erin,” Christina said quietly, nudging her with her elbow. “I wasn’t sure if things were still awkward between us, but… this was great.”

Erin smiled, feeling a genuine warmth toward her. “Yeah, it was. And no, things aren’t awkward anymore. I’m glad you’re here.”

As they cleared the room and set up sleeping arrangements for the night, Erin couldn’t help but feel proud of herself. She’d faced her jealousy, her insecurities, and come out on the other side stronger for it.

Chapter Text

Christina stepped off the bus at the bustling Dublin station, the familiar sights and sounds enveloping her like a warm blanket. She was eager to see her family, to reconnect with the pieces of her life that felt distant since starting university. The long weekend had promised a welcome break, a chance to recharge before diving back into the whirlwind of classes and new friendships.

But as she approached her childhood home, that sense of comfort began to slip away. The once familiar brick façade now felt oppressive, the ivy creeping up the walls reminding her of the suffocating atmosphere inside. As she entered, she heard the TV blaring in the living room, her mother’s boyfriend, Paul, sprawled on the couch.

“Christina! You’re home!” he called, his voice dripping with false enthusiasm. She forced a smile, wishing it were genuine, but something about his presence made her stomach churn.

“Hi, Paul,” she replied, trying to navigate around him without engaging too much. Her mother was in the kitchen, her back turned, and Christina seized the moment to slip away.

After a quick dinner filled with strained conversation, Christina excused herself. She hoped to avoid any further interaction, but Paul had other plans. Just as she was in the hallway. “Christina?” Paul’s voice slithered behind her. “Why don’t you come help me with something?” Christina’s blood ran cold. Paul gives her the creeps and he constantly makes inappropriate comments.

“I’m tired, Paul,” she called back, her heart racing. “Can’t it wait until tomorrow?”

“Don’t be such a downer,” he said, coming up behind her just as her hand was on the knob if her bedroom door. She turned to face him. “You don’t want to be rude, do you?” he sneered.

Before she could react, he lunged forward, grabbing her wrist with an iron grip. Christina’s heart raced as she struggled to break free, but he was stronger. “Let go of me!” she shouted, panic flooding her voice. ‘Mammy, Ma..’

“Just relax,” he hissed, his breath hot and foul against her skin. ‘Your moms passed out drunk she won't disturb us.’

In a flash, he had her pinned against the wall, his hands roaming inappropriately. Christina fought back, slapping him across the face with all her strength. The sound echoed through the small hallway like a gunshot, but it only seemed to enrage him further.

“Bitch!” he yelled, striking her hard across the face, pain exploding in her head as she stumbled back. A sharp sting blossomed around her eye, and her vision blurred for a moment.

Just then, her older cousin Sean can through the door, Auntie Bridget the door was open, I'm just here to get me tool box… , just then he spotted Christina tears streaming down her face, his expression a mixture of confusion and alarm. “What the hell is going on here?” he shouted, immediately assessing the situation.

“Get out!” Paul yelled, but Sean was undeterred.

“Get your hands off her!” he commanded, rushing forward and pushing Paul away from Christina. The confrontation escalated, and with Sean's intervention, Paul quickly backed off, sensing he was outmatched.

“Sean, please,” Christina whimpered, tears streaming down her face as she clutched her cheek, where Paul had hit her.

Sean moved to her side, surveying her injuries. “You okay, hun?” he asked, his voice filled with concern.

“Not really,” she replied, her voice trembling. “He just… he was going to—”

“Let’s get you out of here,” Sean said firmly, wrapping an arm around her shoulders. He turned to Paul, who was seething in the corner. “You’d better leave before I call the police, you creep.”

Paul glared at Sean but saw the determination in his eyes. “You’re lucky this time,” he spat, before storming out of the room.

“Thanks, Sean,” Christina whispered, her body shaking as the adrenaline slowly faded. “I don’t know what I would’ve done if you hadn’t come.”

“Don’t worry about it, Christina,” he said, pulling her into a comforting embrace. “You’re safe now. I won’t let anyone hurt you.”

As they stepped back into the living room, Christina's mother looked up, her expression shifting from sleepily surprise to anger. “What’s going on?” she demanded, her voice sharp.

“Your boyfriend just attacked Christina,” Sean said, his tone unyielding. “She needs your support right now.”

“I need you, Mam. You need to believe me.” Christina sobbed

“Stop lying!” her mother shouted, the denial in her voice ringing hollow. “You’re being selfish, Christina. You’re an adult now; you can’t just come running home every time something goes wrong. And then start trying to seduce my boyfriend so you can flip it just because you don't like him. You think I can just drop everything for you?”

“I’m your daughter!” Christina cried, desperation clawing at her throat. “I need you to be here for me.”

“Get out,” her mother said coldly, her eyes hard. “If you don’t like it here, you’re not welcome back. You’ve made your choices, and now you’ll live with them.”

Feeling utterly abandoned, Christina turned to Sean, her heart breaking. “I can’t stay here.”

“Let’s get you to Derry, if your letters are anything to go by you have a support system of people there,” he said, his voice low and resolute. “You can stay with James and his mates until you sort things out.”

With no other option, Christina grabbed her bag and followed Sean outside. They walked to the bus station, the chill of the evening air biting at her skin. “I’m sorry you had to see that,” she said quietly.

“Don’t be,” he replied. “You’re stronger than you think. Let’s just get you somewhere safe.”

She stayed in Sean’s for the night, as it was too late to make a call or get a bus now.

Sean took her to a phone box to call James house before taking her to the bus station. She just told James something had happened at home and she needed him, he was more than happy to invite her to stay with him.

After a long wait, Christina boarded the bus to Derry, her heart heavy but determined. She felt a mix of fear and relief at the thought of seeing James again. She knew she needed his comfort, and for the first time in a long time, she felt a flicker of hope that maybe she could find a place where she belonged.

*******

As the bus rolled into Derry, Christina’s anxiety began to dissipate, replaced by the familiar sights of her friends. She felt a rush of relief, like stepping into a haven away from the chaos of her home life.

When she arrived at the bus station, she saw James waiting for her, his face lighting up when he spotted her, before dropping as he noticed her bruised face. He rushed forward, concern etched in his features. “Christina! Are you alright?”

Before she could respond, he wrapped her in a tight hug. The warmth of his embrace made her feel safe, and she leaned into him, releasing the pent-up emotion from the past few days. He shhhsed her and kissed her forehead as she cried.

“I… I had a bit of a rough time,” she admitted, pulling back to look into his eyes. “I really need to talk.”

“Let’s get you settled first,” he suggested, his expression turning serious. “You can stay at my aunt’s for a bit.”

As they walked to his aunt's house, Christina felt a sense of calm wash over her. James was there, steady and reassuring. She knew she could share everything with him, and it felt good to let someone in. Michelle spotted them coming in and nodded trying to hide her shock. ‘Have you spoken to mum or will I?’. ‘I called her to the hospital earlier before I knew the details.’ James responded. ‘I'll update her’ Michelle calls as she walks away.

As they sat together in the living room, James turned to her, his expression softening. “You can tell me anything, you know. I’m here for you.”

Taking a deep breath, Christina began to share the events of the night before—the confrontation with Paul, the hurtful words from her mother, and the emotional weight of it all. James listened intently, his brow furrowing with concern.

“I’m so sorry, Christina,” he said gently. “You didn’t deserve any of that. You’re safe here. I won’t let anyone hurt you.”

Tears filled her eyes as she nodded, grateful for his kindness. “Thank you, James. I don’t know what I would’ve done without you.”

He took her hand, squeezing it gently. “You’re stronger than you think. We’ll get through this together.”

In that moment, Christina felt a deep sense of safety and love, one she has never felt before.

*********

Michelle sat at the kitchen table, twirling the phone cord in her fingers as she prepared to call her mum. It was late afternoon, and her mind was still spinning after Christina had shown up at their door, bruised and shaken. James had been the first to piece it all together, of course, but now Michelle needed to tell her mum, Deirdre, who would be coming home from her shift at the hospital soon.

"Alright, here we go," Michelle muttered to herself before dialing the number for the hospital. After a few rings, the familiar voice of her mother crackled over the line.

"Altnagelvin Hospital, this is Deirdre Mallon," her mum’s voice came through, brisk and professional.

"Mam, it's me," Michelle said, trying to keep her tone light, though her heart was racing. "I need to talk to you about Christina, James’s girlfriend, you know?"

Deirdre’s voice softened immediately. "Oh, love, what’s happened? Is everything alright? I knew she was coming, but I didn’t expect a call before I got home. What’s going on?"

Michelle sighed, glancing toward the living room where Christina was resting on the couch. "It’s a bit more serious than I thought. She’s not just upset about a fight or something. She showed up with a proper shiner, Mam. Looks like someone slapped her, too."

Deirdre went silent for a moment on the other end, the gravity of the situation settling in. "Are you saying she’s hurt, Michelle? Physically? Who did this to her?"

"Yeah, she’s got a black eye and what looks like the mark of a hand on her cheek. James says it's her ma’s boyfriend who did it. I think she just didn’t know where else to go, Mam." Michelle’s voice wavered slightly, despite her usual bravado. It was one thing to deal with typical teenage drama, but this felt like something heavier, something she wasn’t equipped to handle on her own.

Deirdre’s tone turned firm and resolute. "Right. Here’s what we’re going to do. I’ll be home in about an hour, and we’ll take care of her. I’ll talk to her myself, and if it’s as bad as you say, we might need to get the police involved. Does she need a doctor right now?"

Michelle bit her lip, unsure. "I don’t think so. James has been looking after her, and she’s resting for now, but she’s pretty shaken up."

"Alright, love. Keep her comfortable and don’t push her to talk until she’s ready. We’ll handle it when I get home." Deirdre paused before adding softly, "I know this can be a lot, but you’re doing the right thing by calling me."

Michelle nodded, even though her mum couldn’t see her. "I know. I just didn’t expect it, you know? She’s always seemed so put together."

"People can hide a lot, Michelle," Deirdre said with a sigh. "I’ll see you soon, and we’ll get this sorted. But if James says it’s her family, we’ll have to tread carefully. Christina might need more help than we can give her here."

After they hung up, Michelle sat at the table for a moment longer, letting the weight of it all sink in. She wasn’t used to dealing with anything like this, but if her mum was worried, then it was serious. With a deep breath, she picked up the phone again. It was time to update the rest of the gang.

She dialed Erin’s number first, knowing she needed to hear it from her. After a couple of rings, Erin picked up.

"Hey, Michelle, what’s up?" Erin’s cheerful voice echoed through the receiver, clearly unaware of what had happened.

"Erin, it’s about Christina," Michelle said, her tone more serious than usual. "She’s at our place now, but... well, she’s in a bit of a state. She showed up with a black eye, and it looks like her ma’s boyfriend was the one who did it."

There was a stunned silence on the other end before Erin’s voice came through, quieter now. "What? Are you serious? Does James know?"

"Yeah, he knows. He’s been looking after her, but I don’t think anyone realized how bad her home life was." Michelle paused, running a hand through her hair. "I’m just calling to let you know what’s going on. Mam’s coming home soon, and we’ll see what we can do, but… I dunno, Erin, it’s just a mess."

Erin took a deep breath, trying to process the news. "I had no idea… She’s always seemed so confident, like nothing could touch her."

"Yeah, same here," Michelle agreed. "But you should probably come round later, just to check in. I’m gonna call Clare and Orla now."

"I will," Erin promised. "And Michelle… thanks for telling me."

Once the call ended, Michelle quickly dialed Clare and Orla, giving them both the same update. Clare’s reaction was a mix of concern and resolve, already thinking about what legal options Christina might have, while Orla just wanted to come over immediately to give her a hug.

By the time Michelle hung up, she felt the weight of the situation even more heavily. She glanced at the living room again, where Christina was lying quietly on the couch with James by her side, his hand resting on her arm as they talked softly. Michelle could see the pain in both of them, and for the first time, it dawned on her that they were more alike than she’d realized—two people hiding their scars in different ways.

Her mum was right: people could hide a lot. But for now, Christina didn’t have to hide anymore.

*********

The living room was dim, lit only by the soft glow of the lamps. Christina sat curled on the couch, her legs tucked under her, and James was beside her, his expression a mix of concern and quiet anger. He hadn’t left her side since she’d arrived earlier that afternoon, her face bruised, eyes hollow with fear and exhaustion. Michelle had gone upstairs, giving them space after what had already been a long, tense day.

Christina shifted uncomfortably, pulling her oversized hoodie closer around her frame. She glanced at James, her eyes full of shame. "I’m sorry," she whispered, her voice cracking slightly. "I shouldn’t have come here… I didn’t want to be an inconvenience."

James frowned, his heart aching at the sight of her. "Christina, don’t say that," he murmured, his voice gentle but firm. "You’re not an inconvenience. You could never be." He shifted closer to her on the couch, taking her hand in his, his thumb brushing softly over her knuckles. "You did the right thing by coming here."

Christina bit her lip, fighting back the tears that threatened to spill over. "I just… I didn’t know where else to go. I feel like such a burden, showing up like this, dragging all my mess with me."

James squeezed her hand, his voice softening even more. "You’re not a burden. You’re important to me, Christina. I… I love you." His words hung in the air for a moment, and for the first time that evening, Christina’s eyes flickered with something other than pain.

"You… you love me?" she asked, her voice barely audible.

James nodded, his gaze steady on hers. "Of course I do. I’m here for you. Always." He reached up, gently brushing a strand of hair from her face, careful to avoid the bruise on her cheek. "What happened to you… it shouldn’t have happened. But you’re safe now. I’ll make sure of that."

Christina looked down, her fingers trembling in his. "I’m scared, James," she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. "I thought I could handle it, you know? But I couldn’t stop him. And my mam… she didn’t even care."

James felt a surge of anger flare up at the thought of Christina’s mother dismissing what had happened. He took a deep breath, pushing it down. This wasn’t the time for anger. "You don’t have to handle this on your own anymore. You’ve got me. And you’ve got Michelle, her mum… all of us." He paused, watching her carefully. "But we need to talk about going to the police."

Christina’s whole body tensed at the mention of the police, and she shook her head quickly. "No," she whispered urgently. "I don’t want to go to the police, James. Please don’t make me do that."

James frowned, confused. "Christina, he hurt you. We need to make sure he doesn’t do this again."

"I know," she said, her voice shaking. "But… I can’t. It’s just… it’s too much. It’ll only make things worse, and I don’t want to deal with all that. I don’t want my family dragged into it. Please."

James hesitated, torn between wanting to protect her and respecting her wishes. "Okay," he said after a long pause. "We won’t go to the police if you’re not ready. But you have to promise me something—if you ever feel unsafe again, you come to me. No questions, no hesitations."

Christina nodded slowly, her eyes filling with tears. "I promise."

They sat in silence for a moment, the only sound in the room the ticking of the clock on the wall. James kept his hand in hers, his presence a quiet reassurance that she wasn’t alone.

"I don’t know what I’d do without you, James," she whispered after a while, her voice raw with emotion. "I just… I’m sorry for everything. I didn’t mean for any of this to happen."

"You don’t have to apologise for anything," James said softly, his hand still holding hers. "You’ve been through enough. All I care about is that you’re here now, and that you’re safe."

Just then, they heard the front door open, followed by the sound of Deirdre’s footsteps as she arrived home from her shift at the hospital. Christina tensed immediately, her hand tightening in James’s.

"It’s okay," James whispered, giving her hand a comforting squeeze. "My aunt’s going to help."

Deirdre entered the living room, her eyes immediately taking in the sight of Christina’s bruised face. Her expression softened with maternal concern, but she kept her voice steady and calm. "Christina, love, how are you feeling?"

Christina forced a small smile, though it didn’t reach her eyes. "I’m okay," she said quietly. "Thank you for letting me stay."

Deirdre nodded, coming closer and gently touching Christina’s shoulder. "You’re welcome here as long as you need. We’ll sort everything out, alright?" She glanced at James, giving him a reassuring look before turning her attention back to Christina. "No rush to talk about anything until you’re ready. Just rest."

Christina nodded, visibly exhausted. "Thank you."

Deirdre gave a small smile and stepped back, giving them some space. "I’ll put the kettle on. A cup of tea never hurts," she said softly before heading to the kitchen.

James looked back at Christina, who was now leaning against him, her head resting on his shoulder. "See? We’ve got you," he whispered, pressing a soft kiss to the top of her head.

Christina didn’t say anything, but the way she relaxed against him told him everything he needed to know.

Chapter Text

The comforting aroma of tea wafted through the small kitchen, blending with the soft sounds of Deirdre bustling about. James was perched on the edge of the couch, still cradling Christina's hand, when Michelle finally made her way downstairs.

“Hey,” Michelle said, her voice light but her expression serious. “I just wanted to let you know that I told the girls you were here. They all want to come over, bring pizza and videos, you know, the whole shindig. They figured you could use some cheering up.”

Christina smiled faintly, grateful for the support, though the weight of what had happened still hung heavily in the air. “That sounds nice,” she said, her voice soft. “I’d like that.”

“Good! It’ll be a right laugh,” Michelle replied, her eyes sparkling with mischief. “And they’ll bring a mountain of pizza, so you’ll be sorted. Just you wait!”

As if on cue, the front door swung open, and the unmistakable sounds of the girls filled the house. “We come bearing gifts!” Clare’s voice rang out cheerfully.

James chuckled, standing up as Orla, Clare, and Erin appeared, laden with boxes of pizza and a couple of old VHS tapes. The sight of them brightened Christina’s mood just a touch, and she sat up straighter on the couch, trying to appear more composed.

“Christina!” Clare exclaimed, rushing over to give her a quick hug. “I’m so glad you’re here. We’ve all been worried about you.”

Orla set down the boxes on the coffee table, peering into one of them. “I hope you like pepperoni, because that’s the best we could manage,” she said, beaming.

“Yeah, and we brought ‘Clueless’ and ‘Footlose’ for our movie marathon,” Erin chimed in, smiling warmly at Christina. “Just what the doctor ordered!”

Christina’s heart warmed at their kindness, and she found herself smiling despite the shadows that lingered in her mind. “Thanks, you guys. I really appreciate it. I… I’ve had a bit of a rough time,” she admitted, her voice catching slightly as she glanced down at her hands.

“What happened?” Michelle asked, her tone suddenly serious. “If you want to talk about it.”

Taking a deep breath, Christina recounted the events of her weekend—how she had been attacked by her mother’s boyfriend and how she had fled to Derry for safety. As she spoke, the room fell silent, the weight of her words hanging heavily in the air. The girls listened intently, their expressions shifting from shock to sympathy.

“That’s awful!” Orla exclaimed, her eyes wide with concern. “You should have told someone right away.”

“I thought I could handle it,” Christina replied, her voice small. “But I didn’t know what to do. I just felt… trapped.”

“Christina, you’re safe now,” Erin said firmly, her voice steady. “We’re here for you. If there’s anything you need, just say the word.”

“Yeah, we’ll be your backup squad,” Michelle added, her trademark cheekiness returning as she tossed a slice of pizza to Christina. “We’ll make sure that creep knows he can’t mess with you.”

After the girls chatted and shared stories to lighten the mood, they settled in to watch the movies, laughter and chatter filling the room. Time passed quickly as they enjoyed the pizza, pepperoni grease glistening on their fingers, and the comfort of friendship wrapped around them like a warm blanket.

As the night wore on, the laughter began to fade, and the group settled into a comfortable silence, allowing Christina to relax. Eventually, Deirdre re-entered the living room, a knowing smile on her face as she surveyed the scene.

“I’ve got an extra blanket if anyone needs it,” she said, glancing at the couch. “Christina, love, you’re welcome to stay the rest of the weekend if you’d like.”

“Thanks, Mrs. Mallon,” Christina replied, grateful but unsure. “I—”

“I’d feel better if you stayed, really,” Deirdre insisted gently. “We’ve got a spare room, but I wouldn’t mind at all if you wanted to sleep in James’s room. He’ll take good care of you, I promise.”

James felt a rush of relief and excitement. “I can get you an old T-shirt to sleep in if you want, Christina. It’ll be comfier than whatever you have on.” he whispered in her ear.

“Yeah, that’d be nice,” she said, looking at him, a flicker of warmth passing between them.

Once they finished tidying up and said goodnight to the girls, James led Christina upstairs to his room. It felt oddly intimate, and as he handed her an old T-shirt, he noticed the way she hesitated, a faint blush coloring her cheeks.

“Thanks,” she said, slipping the T-shirt over her head. It hung loosely on her frame, the fabric soft and comforting.

They settled down on the bed, and James instinctively moved closer, wrapping an arm around her shoulders. “You okay?” he asked, his voice barely above a whisper.

“I am now,” she replied, leaning her head against him, grateful for the warmth of his body beside hers. “I feel safe here.”

James smiled softly, feeling her relax against him. As the seconds turned into minutes, he shifted slightly, his head resting gently atop hers. They lay there, the weight of the day fading, the gentle rise and fall of Christina’s breathing calming him.

“I love you, James,” she murmured, her voice muffled by the fabric of his T-shirt.

His heart soared at her words. “I love you too, Christina,” he whispered back, the sincerity in his voice echoing in the stillness of the room.

In that moment, all the troubles of the world outside faded away, leaving only the two of them wrapped in a cocoon of comfort and warmth. They both drifted off to sleep.

*********

Meanwhile, in the kitchen, the atmosphere was filled with a different kind of warmth as Michelle chatted with her mother, Deirdre. The kettle whistled, cutting through the lighthearted banter of the girls in the living room.

“Do you want a cuppa, love?” Deirdre asked, pouring hot water into a teapot.

“Yeah, that’d be great, Ma,” Michelle replied, leaning against the counter, a slight frown tugging at her brow. “I just… I can’t help but feel for Erin, you know?”

Deirdre turned to face her daughter, sensing the weight of her words. “What do you mean?”

Michelle sighed, crossing her arms. “I mean, it’s nice to see James so smitten with Christina. He’s looking all grown up and responsible, but… Erin has always had this thing for him. It’s just hard to watch her struggling with it.”

“Ah, sweetheart,” Deirdre said softly, placing a reassuring hand on Michelle’s shoulder. “Sometimes things don’t work out the way we want them to. That’s just life, isn’t it?”

“Just because Erin has feelings for James doesn’t mean he feels the same way or that they’re meant to be together.”

Michelle frowned, trying to digest her mother’s words. “Do you think he’ll end up with Christina?”

“Who knows?” Deirdre said, pouring the tea and handing a cup to Michelle. “It’s possible. But James is still young, and so is Christina. They’re both exploring what they want, just like you and your friends. Life has a funny way of surprising us.”

“Yeah, I just wish Erin didn’t have to go through this,” Michelle said, her heart heavy. “I feel like I’m stuck in the middle.”

“You’re a good friend, Michelle,” Deirdre reassured her. “It’s admirable that you care so much. But you can’t control who James falls for, and neither can Erin. Maybe one day, they’ll figure it all out. Or maybe James will marry Christina. You never know.”

Michelle looked down into her tea, the swirling liquid mirroring her conflicting emotions. “I just don’t want to lose her. Erin means a lot to me.”

“You won’t lose her,” Deirdre promised, taking a sip of her own tea. “Just be there for her, as you always have been. Support her and help her see that her happiness is important too. Relationships are a journey, not a destination.”

*******

“Anyone up for ‘Footloose’?” Clare suggested, her eyes lighting up with enthusiasm.

“Yes! I love that one!” Michelle chimed in, bouncing slightly on the couch. “Nothing like a bit of Kevin Bacon to lift your spirits.”

As Clare popped the VHS into the VCR, the opening credits rolled, and the familiar music filled the room. Laughter erupted as they all started to sing along to the catchy theme.

The girls settled back onto the couch as the film began to play. The familiar scene of Kevin Bacon dancing his heart out on screen drew giggles and cheers from the group, momentarily lifting Erin's spirits.

After a few scenes, Erin found herself lost in the music and the energy of her friends. For the first time that night, she focused on the laughter, the jokes, and the warmth of being surrounded by her friends. She had to remind herself that her happiness mattered too, and she couldn’t let envy taint their night together.

“Alright, let’s get our dancing shoes on, ladies!” Michelle exclaimed, jumping up and attempting to mimic Kevin’s dance moves, causing the rest of them to erupt into laughter.

As they joined in, Erin felt her worries fade, replaced by the carefree joy of friendship. They danced, sang, and acted out scenes, creating memories that would last a lifetime.

Eventually, as the credits rolled, the girls were exhausted but happy.

Erin made a promise to herself as her and the girls laughed: no more dwelling on things she couldn’t change. James had chosen to pursue his happiness with Christina, and maybe, just maybe, she could find her own path to happiness too.

***********
The soft light of morning filtered through the sitting room window, casting a gentle glow over the room. Erin stirred awake, rubbing her eyes as she registered the sound of muffled crying.

Erin slowly got up from the couch as not to wake the others, she tiptoed toward the kitchen. Peeking around the corner, she saw Christina sitting at the table, her shoulders shaking with quiet sobs. In her hand was a phone, and she was talking to someone named Sean.

“…I can’t believe she said that, Sean. I’m not a promiscuous slut!” Christina’s voice trembled, a mixture of anger and hurt.

Erin hesitated for a moment, unsure if she should interrupt. But the anguish in Christina’s voice tugged at her heartstrings. She quietly stepped into the kitchen, determined to offer support.

“Christina?” Erin said softly, causing Christina to look up, her eyes red-rimmed and glossy. “Are you okay?”

Christina wiped her cheeks with the back of her hand, managing a weak smile. “I’m fine. Just… talking to Sean.”

Sean’s voice crackled through the phone. “Look, Christina, I’ve got your stuff packed up, and I’ll drop it at your apartment tomorrow. Just stay strong, okay? I’ll swing by and grab the key.”

“Thanks, Sean,” Christina said, her voice barely above a whisper. “I just can’t believe Mum thinks that about me. I’ve never done anything to deserve that. She’s so caught up in her own life and her awful boyfriends that she doesn’t see me.”

Erin felt a pang of sympathy for Christina, realizing just how much she had been struggling.

The conversation with Sean continued, revealing more about Christina's difficult family dynamics. “I called Dad too, but he said he can help with the rent but can’t have me stay at Christmas. Too confusing for the kids,” she said, shaking her head in disbelief. “It’s like I don’t even matter to him.”

As Christina continued her conversation, James and Michelle entered the kitchen, sensing the tension in the air. James approached Christina, crouching down beside her, and gently took her hand. He locked eyes with her, and Erin could see the tenderness in his expression, as though he were trying to shield her from the pain surrounding them.

“Everything alright?” James asked softly, his voice a comforting balm in the tense atmosphere.

Christina gave a slight nod, but her tears continued to fall. She squeezed James’s hand, grateful for his presence. As he kissed her knuckles gently, Erin felt an unexpected warmth at the sight. It was a simple act, but it conveyed a depth of care that made her heart swell for both of them.

Michelle glanced at Erin, concern etched on her face. “Maybe we should give them a minute,” she suggested quietly, stepping back.

“Yeah, let’s go,” Erin whispered, feeling the weight of the moment as she turned to leave the kitchen with Michelle.

Once outside, they leaned against the cool wall of the corridor, allowing the soft sounds of Christina’s muffled sobs to drift away.

“What do you think is going on with her?” Michelle asked, crossing her arms defensively. “I mean, I knew her home life wasn’t great, but this is… I don’t know. It’s rough.”

“I feel awful that we didn’t know before,” Michelle admitted, biting her lip. “I want to help her, but I don’t know how.”

“I know. We need to show her she’s not alone. I want to be a proper friend to her,” Erin replied, her resolve hardening. “Maybe we can do something fun together, take her mind off things?”

Michelle nodded, a flicker of hope lighting her eyes. “Yeah, like a girls’ night or something! We could watch movies and just hang out. I think she could use that.”

“Definitely,” Erin agreed, her determination strengthening. “But we need to make sure she knows it’s okay to talk about what she’s feeling, too. I can’t just sit back and let her suffer alone.”

“Right,” Michelle said, her expression softening. “We’ll figure this out together. That’s what friends are for, isn’t it?”

As they stood there, plotting their next move to support Christina, Erin felt a renewed sense of purpose.

Returning to the kitchen, Erin and Michelle saw James still comforting Christina, their closeness a reminder of the bond they were all forging. Erin felt a flicker of pride for James; he was stepping up, and that was exactly what Christina needed. The bond of friendship they all shared would grow stronger from this, and Erin was determined to be a part of it.

**************

Erin took a deep breath as she watched James embrace Christina, enveloping her in warmth and comfort. For the first time, she felt an overwhelming sense of pride for him instead of jealousy. He had really stepped up for Christina, and that was the kind of person she admired. Whatever feelings she might have had were quietly set aside. After all, it was clear that Christina needed him, and Erin was happy to support them both.

As Christina finally hung up the phone, she looked more composed, though the remnants of her distress still lingered in her eyes. Erin decided it was time to lighten the mood. “How about a Halloween movie night at my place?” she suggested, a playful smile on her face. “We could watch *The Rocky Horror Picture Show*. Nothing says Halloween like a little time warp, right?”

Christina’s eyes brightened slightly at the invitation. “That sounds amazing. I’ve never seen it, but I’ve heard it’s a classic!”

James grinned, his enthusiasm contagious. “I’ll bring the snacks! Can’t have a movie night without popcorn and sweets.”

“Perfect! I’ll set everything up,” Erin said, feeling the atmosphere lighten as they all began to plan for the night ahead.

---

Later that evening, Erin’s house buzzed with activity as her friends arrived. The air was filled with laughter and the rustle of candy wrappers, the excitement of Halloween palpable in the air. When Christina stepped through the front door, Erin’s parents, Mary and Gerry, immediately noticed the bruises on her face.

“Who’s this, then?” Gerry asked with his usual boisterous charm, but his expression quickly turned serious when he saw the marks on Christina’s cheek. “Erin, what happened to her?”

Erin’s stomach dropped at the concern on her parents’ faces. She took a deep breath, preparing to explain. “Uh, Mum, Dad, this is Christina. She’s… had a bit of a rough time lately.”

Mary’s eyes softened as she stepped closer to Christina. “Oh, sweetheart, are you alright? You look like you’ve been through the wringer.”

Christina managed a small smile, though it didn’t quite reach her eyes. “I’m okay, really. Just a little accident.”

Erin quickly interjected, feeling the need to protect Christina from further probing. “It’s more complicated than that. I’ll fill you in later, I promise.” She could sense the worry radiating from her parents and didn’t want to burden Christina with more questions right now.

Just then, Grandad Joe ambled into the room, a mischievous twinkle in his eye. “Well, if that British lad isn’t so gay after all!” he quipped, his trademark humor cutting through the tension.

Mary shot him a warning glance, but Erin couldn’t help but chuckle. “Da, that’s not appropriate!” she said, playfully swatting at him.

As everyone settled in for the movie, Erin glanced at Christina, who was sitting between her and James. The flickering light from the television illuminated Christina’s face, and Erin felt a warmth spread in her chest. No matter what had happened, tonight was about friendship, laughter, and maybe a little bit of healing. She hoped that together, they could help Christina feel a bit more at home, even if just for a night.

The opening credits of *The Rocky Horror Picture Show* began to roll, and Erin leaned back, ready to enjoy the night with her friends.

********

As the credits rolled and the laughter from the movie lingered in the air, Erin felt a sense of contentment wash over her. Her friends chatted animatedly, but she knew it was time to pull her parents aside and share what had really happened with Christina. She could no longer let guilt fester; it was time to confront the truth.

“Hey, Mum, Dad,” Erin called, motioning for them to step away from the group. “Can we talk for a minute?”

Mary and Gerry exchanged curious glances, then followed Erin into the quiet corner of the room, away from the chatter. “What’s on your mind, love?” her dad asked, leaning against the wall.

Erin took a deep breath, gathering her thoughts. “It’s about Christina,” she began, glancing back at the group to ensure they weren’t eavesdropping. “I didn’t tell you everything earlier. It’s more serious than just a rough time. Her home life is really difficult. She has… well, her mum isn’t supportive, and she’s had some nasty run-ins with her mum’s boyfriend.”

Mary’s eyes widened in concern. “Oh, dear God. That poor girl.”

“I feel so guilty,” Erin continued, her voice trembling slightly. “When I first met Christina, I was so caught up in my own feelings for James that I didn’t really pay attention to her. I was jealous of their connection, and instead of being a proper friend, I just… I don’t know, I held back.”

“Erin, it’s understandable,” Gerry said gently, putting a reassuring hand on her shoulder. “We all have our feelings, and it’s hard to manage them, especially when friends are involved. What matters is how you’re choosing to support her now.”

Mary nodded, her expression softening. “Yes, love. It sounds like you’ve realized that it’s not about you. It’s about being there for Christina when she needs you the most.”

“I just wish I hadn’t let my jealousy get in the way,” Erin admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. “I wanted to be happy for James, but a part of me was still holding on to what could have been. It felt selfish, and now I worry I’ve missed my chance to really be there for her.”

“Being honest about your feelings is the first step to moving forward,” Mary encouraged. “You’ve done that tonight by inviting her in. Sometimes, it takes a bit of time to figure things out.”

Erin felt the weight on her chest lighten, though the guilt lingered like a shadow. “I just hope she knows I’m really here for her now. I want to be a proper friend and help her heal.”

Gerry smiled, his eyes twinkling with warmth. “You will be, Erin. Just keep being you. Christina is lucky to have you in her corner, especially after everything she’s gone through.”

Feeling reassured, Erin took a moment to collect herself. “Thanks, Mum, Dad. It just feels good to get this off my chest.”

They all turned back to the room, where Christina was laughing with the others, James right beside her, both of them glowing with a shared comfort that made Erin’s heart swell

Chapter Text

The following afternoon, the Mallon household was buzzing with a mixture of tension. Erin busied herself in the kitchen, helping Michelle prepare a light lunch while casting occasional glances toward the living room, where Sean had just arrived to see Christina. The tension hung in the air, palpable and electric.

“Are you sure you don’t want to go to the police?” Sean asked, his voice firm yet gentle as he leaned against the doorframe. Christina sat on the couch, her legs pulled up to her chest, her expression resolute.

“I’m not going to the police, Sean. I just want to forget about it,” Christina insisted, her voice shaky but determined. “I can handle it my way.”

Sean sighed, running a hand through his hair. “You can’t just ignore this. What happened was serious, and he needs to be held accountable for what he did.”

“I know, but if I go to the police, it’ll just make everything worse,” she replied, her eyes glistening with unshed tears. “They won’t believe me anyway. It’ll just be another fight with my mum about being selfish.”

He softened, moving closer to her. “I hate seeing you like this, Christina. You deserve to feel safe and happy, not terrified and ashamed.”

“I know,” she whispered, tears finally escaping down her cheeks. “But I can’t face all that right now.”

Sean sighed and shifted the conversation. “I got your things from the house—your clothes, jewelry, and some sentimental bits,” he said, “I figured you might want them back, even if just for a bit of normalcy.”

Christina’s face lit up slightly. “Thank you, Sean. You’re always looking out for me.”

Just then, Erin entered the living room, her heart racing slightly at the sight of Sean. She couldn’t help but notice how tall he was, the way he carried himself with a mixture of confidence and concern. His blue eyes were warm and filled with empathy as he spoke to Christina.

“Hey, Erin!” Christina greeted, trying to wipe her tears away quickly. “Sean just came by to check on me.”

“Hi, Sean,” Erin said, her voice slightly shaky. She felt a flutter in her stomach as she met his gaze. He smiled at her, and she felt warmth spread through her cheeks.

Christina watched the interaction with delight. “You know, Sean, Erin’s been a fantastic friend through all of this,” she chimed in, nudging Erin’s arm playfully. “She’s really been helping me.”

“Is that right?” Sean said, raising an eyebrow at Erin. “Well, you’re a good friend, then. You must be pretty special.”

Erin felt her heart race again at his words. “I just want to help,” she managed to say, trying not to let her crush on Sean show too obviously.

As the conversation shifted back to Christina’s situation, Sean leaned closer, his expression serious. “Listen, James really cares about you, but you need to be careful. If he hurts you in any way, you tell me. I mean it, Christina. You deserve better than anyone who doesn’t treat you right.”

“I know, Sean. I really do,” Christina replied softly, grateful for his concern. “But he’s been nothing but good to me.”

They all decided to have a quick lunch before Sean took James and Christina back to Belfast.

********

“Ready?” James asked, and Christina nodded, her eyes glistening with gratitude.

As they gathered their things, Erin felt a mix of emotions watching them together. She was happy for Christina, but a small part of her couldn’t shake the twinge of envy she had felt in the past. However, she pushed those thoughts aside, knowing how much Christina needed James now.

“Thanks for everything, Erin. You’ve been so supportive,” Christina said, pulling Erin into a warm hug. “I really appreciate it.”

“Of course, I’m always here for you,” Erin replied, squeezing her tightly. She watched as Christina then hugged Michelle, who looked genuinely pleased to see her friend’s spirits lifted.

“Just remember, we’re only a phone call away if you need anything,” Michelle said, her voice earnest.

As they stepped back from the hugs, Sean walked into the kitchen, just in time to catch James’s eye. There was an intensity in Sean’s gaze, a brotherly protectiveness that made Erin’s heart race.

“James,” Sean said, his tone serious as he stepped closer. “I know you care about Christina, but I want you to promise me you’ll look after her. She’s been through a lot, and I don’t want her to feel alone.”

James straightened up, his demeanor shifting from casual to attentive. “I promise, Sean. I’ll make sure she’s okay. You have my word.”

Christina watched the exchange with a grateful smile, reassured by Sean’s protective instincts. She felt a warmth in knowing she had a strong support system around her.

“Alright, let’s hit the road,” James said, giving Christina a soft smile as he took her hand. “We should get back before it gets too late.”

With that, the three of them said their goodbyes, promising to see the girls the next day. Erin felt a strange sense of relief watching Christina head off with James. Maybe this was what she needed—to let go of her feelings for James and focus on being the friend Christina deserved.

As they made their way to James’s car, the sun was shining brightly, and the air felt crisp, a perfect autumn day. The three of them piled into the car, and as James started the engine, Christina turned in her seat to wave goodbye to Erin and Michelle, who stood together on the doorstep, watching them leave.

“We’ll see you tomorrow!” Michelle called out, her voice cheerful.

Erin waved back, feeling a sense of hope blossom inside her. She turned to Michelle as they watched the car disappear down the road. “I really think Christina will be alright,” Erin said, a smile on her face.

“Yeah, with James by her side, she’s in good hands,” Michelle agreed,
As they turned to head back inside, Erin felt lighter. She had stepped up for Christina, and now, she could focus on herself and her friends without the shadow of jealousy hanging over her. The girls had each other’s backs, and that was what truly mattered.

********
Sean pulled up outside Christina’s student accommodation, the rumble of the car engine fading as he shifted into neutral. The ride back had been quiet, filled with the weight of unspoken thoughts. Christina sat in the passenger seat, gazing out the window, while James had been silent in the back, his mind turning over everything that had happened.

As the car came to a stop, Sean looked over at Christina with a reassuring smile. “Remember, I’m just a call away. You don’t have to go through this alone.”

Christina turned to him, her eyes filled with gratitude. “Thanks, Sean. Really. For everything.”

Sean gave James a steady look, a silent reminder of the promise James had made to protect Christina. “ Look after her.” He leaned over and gave Christina’s shoulder a gentle squeeze before she got out of the car.

As Christina stepped out, James followed, slinging his backpack over one shoulder and carrying Christina's box of belongings from home in his arms. Sean waited for a moment, watching them head toward the entrance of the building before driving off into the evening.

They walked in silence until they reached the door to Christina’s apartment. Christina fumbled with her keys, the exhaustion from the past few days evident on her face. Once inside, she let out a deep breath, finally allowing herself to relax in the familiar surroundings.

“Do you want some tea?” Christina asked, breaking the silence as she dropped her bag by the door.

James shook his head, his eyes following her as she moved into the small kitchenette. “No, I’m good. You alright?”

She paused, her back to him, hands resting on the counter. “I don’t know… It’s just been a lot, you know?”

James walked up behind her, gently placing his hands on her shoulders. “Yeah, I know. But you’re strong, Christina. You’ve handled all of this so well.”

She turned around to face him, her eyes soft but tired. “I don’t feel strong. I feel… broken.”

James pulled her into his arms, holding her close. “You’re not broken. And you don’t have to go through any of this alone.”

They stood there for a long moment, wrapped in each other’s warmth. Christina rested her head against his chest, letting out a slow breath as if she were finally able to exhale all the tension she had been carrying.

When she finally pulled back, there was a vulnerability in her gaze, but also something more—something deeper. She searched his face for a moment, as if trying to decide something.

“James…” she began, her voice hesitant, “I don’t want to be alone tonight. I just… I need you.”

James’s eyes met hers, and in that moment, the air between them shifted. There was a mutual understanding, an unspoken agreement that they both needed each other—physically, emotionally, in every way.

“Are you sure?” James asked, his voice gentle, not wanting to rush her into anything.

Christina nodded, a small, determined smile tugging at her lips. “I’m sure.”

James leaned in, brushing a soft kiss across her lips, and in that instant, the tenderness between them gave way to something more urgent. They moved together toward her bedroom, each step filled with a mix of anticipation and vulnerability.

Once inside, the soft glow of a bedside lamp cast a warm light over the room. Christina pulled James close, their lips meeting again, more intensely this time. They took their time, undressing each other slowly, savoring each touch, each kiss, as if the world outside didn’t exist for those moments.

James took the condom from his Wallet and put it at the side. He had never done this before but he wanted to make her cum first. He lightly pushed her down on the bed. Before hovering over her to kiss her. Then he slowly moved his hand to her sex, where he found her clit. He started rubbing circles around it, as he kissed down her neck before finding her mouth again. He sped up his movements before hearing her pant his name as she came.

Then carefully James slipped the condom on and lined up with her entrance. He looked her in the eyes before asking ‘Are you sure love?’ She nodded as she whispered ‘Yes’

With that James slowly pushed his length inside her slowly she could adjust. When she was ready she leaned up to kiss him. And quietly said ‘You can move Jay, you won't hurt me.’ That was all James needed to hear as he started moving in and out chasing his own release as he kissed her messily and she kissed along his neck.

It wasn’t just about desire—it was about connection, about healing. For Christina, it was about feeling safe in someone’s arms for the first time in what felt like forever.

When they had both finished they lay together, tangled in the sheets, the weight of the moment hanging between them. Christina rested her head on James’s chest, her fingers tracing lazy patterns across his skin.

“Thank you,” she whispered, her voice soft in the stillness of the room.

James kissed the top of her head. “For what?”

“For being here. For making me feel… safe.”

James tightened his arms around her, his heart full.

*******
The morning air was crisp as Christina stepped out of her student accommodation, the soft morning light casting long shadows on the pavement. After everything that had happened, she felt strangely calm—stronger even. She wrapped her scarf tightly around her neck as she made her way to the payphone near the corner, determined to call Sean before the day’s classes began.

Fishing out some coins from her pocket, she dialed his number, tapping her foot as the phone rang on the other end. It took a few rings, but eventually, Sean’s voice answered, slightly groggy.

“Morning, sunshine,” Christina teased, smiling despite herself.

“Christina? Everything alright?” Sean’s voice was concerned, instantly awake.

“Yeah, I’m fine. Just wanted to check in. You know, since you’re my hero and all,” she replied, her tone light, but there was genuine gratitude behind her words. “Also, I’ve got something to tell you…”

Sean groaned on the other end. “What now? More drama?”

Christina let out a small laugh. “No, no drama. It’s actually about Erin.”

There was a pause before Sean spoke again, his voice carrying a hint of amusement. “Erin? What about her?”

“Well,” Christina began, leaning against the booth with a smirk, “I couldn’t help but notice the two of you seemed to hit it off when you dropped by yesterday. I saw how you were looking at her.”

“Oh, come on, Christina,” Sean muttered, though she could hear the grin in his voice. “She’s a sweet girl, but I don’t think I—”

“Cut the crap, Sean. I’m telling you, she likes you. And I think you like her too,” Christina teased, her eyes glinting with mischief. “You should ask her out.”

There was a brief silence on the other end before Sean cleared his throat. “You really think so?”

Christina’s smile widened. “I know so. I think the two of you would get along really well.”

“Well then,” Sean said, sounding more confident now, “how about you give me her number? I’ll give her a call, see if she’s up for a date.”

Christina laughed, delighted. “I knew it! Alright, I’ll give it to you, but you better treat her right or I’ll have to knock some sense into you.”

Sean chuckled. “I wouldn’t expect anything less.”

Christina recited Erin’s number to him before finishing the call, feeling lighter as she hung up. She could already picture the two of them together—Erin’s shy smiles and Sean’s easygoing charm. It was nice to think that something good might come out of all the chaos.

As she turned to leave the booth, James appeared, walking toward her with two takeaway cups of tea in hand. His face lit up when he saw her.

“Morning,” he greeted her, handing her one of the cups. “Everything okay? You looked pretty deep in conversation.”

“Yeah,” Christina replied, taking the cup with a grateful smile. “I was just talking to Sean.”

James raised an eyebrow, intrigued. “Oh? What about?”

Christina took a sip of the tea, the warmth seeping into her fingers as she grinned. “He’s going to ask Erin out.”

James blinked, surprised. “Wait—Sean? Erin?”

Christina nodded, clearly pleased with herself. “Yep. I could tell they had a bit of a spark yesterday, and I teased him about it. Turns out, he’s interested in her too. He’s going to call her.”

James let out a soft laugh, shaking his head. “I didn’t see that coming, but… actually, it kind of makes sense.”

“I know, right?” Christina replied, her smile wide. “Erin deserves someone good, someone who can help her feel more confident. And Sean… well, he’s a solid guy. I think they could be really good for each other.”

James looked at her with admiration, wrapping his free arm around her shoulders and pulling her close. “You’ve got quite the matchmaking skills, don’t you?”

Christina leaned into him, her eyes twinkling. “What can I say? I’ve got a knack for these things.”

They walked together toward campus, sipping their tea, a comfortable silence settling between them.

Chapter Text

The crisp December air carried the scent of pine and the promise of snow as the days grew shorter and Christmas lights blinked cheerfully in the windows of Derry. The girls were huddled together in the school common area, sipping hot chocolate and chatting about the upcoming holiday break.

“God, I love Christmas,” Michelle declared, throwing her head back dramatically. “It’s the only time of year the adults aren’t yelling at you for doing nothing. All you have to do is show up, smile, and stuff your face.”

Orla, with her usual dreamlike expression, added, “And the presents! Especially when you don’t know what they are. It’s like unwrapping a mystery.”

Clare, ever the practical one, sipped her drink and nodded. “I just like how peaceful it all feels. Everyone seems a little kinder, you know?”

As they sat, Erin noticed Christina was unusually quiet. Her fingers idly traced the rim of her mug, her eyes distant, though she was trying to mask it with a faint smile.

Erin nudged her gently. “Christina, what are your Christmas plans?”

Christina shrugged, keeping her voice casual though her sadness was evident. “I don’t really have any plans. Sean’s spending it with his parents and my dads new family. And well… I'm not invited I've never met his new wife and their kids..my siblings.

The table fell silent, each girl exchanging a glance, realizing the weight of Christina’s words. She had no one to spend Christmas with. Michelle, never one to let a moment linger too long, was the first to jump in.

“Well, you’re not spending it alone, that’s for sure!” she declared, as if it were the most obvious solution in the world.

Clare and Orla nodded enthusiastically, and Erin quickly added, “You should spend it with us! We’ll have such a laugh.”

Christina looked up, her eyes widening in surprise. “Really? I don’t want to impose or—”

“Don’t be daft,” Michelle interrupted. “The more, the merrier! Plus, Mam’s making enough food to feed a small army, so one more mouth won’t make a difference.” Erin smiled.

Erin leaned in, her voice soft but sincere. “You’re one of us, Christina. You’re family now.”

Christina’s eyes welled with gratitude. She had been trying to push the loneliness aside, pretending it didn’t bother her. But the kindness from her new friends was more than she’d expected. She blinked away the tears and smiled.

“Thank you,” she whispered. “I’d love that.”

Just then, James arrived at the table, his hands shoved deep into his jacket pockets. There was a slight frown on his face, something clearly weighing on his mind.

“Alright, what did I miss?” he asked, sitting down beside Christina and giving her a quick, reassuring smile.

“We’ve just invited Christina to spend Christmas with us!” Orla said excitedly, her eyes sparkling.

“Ah, brilliant!” James said, his expression softening. But Erin noticed something in his tone—like he was forcing enthusiasm. He wasn’t as excited as he should have been. Christina also seemed to notice reaching her hand out to find his.

Erin tilted her head, giving him a curious look. “James, what about you? Are you heading back to see your mum for Christmas?”

James shifted uncomfortably, staring down at the table. “Nah… she’s, uh… she’s spending it with her new boyfriend’s family. Didn’t think I’d be much wanted around there.”

The table went quiet again, the awkwardness hanging in the air. James tried to brush it off, but Erin could see the hurt in his eyes. His mum, Cathy, had been distant for a long time now, and with her new relationship, it seemed like James was further down the priority list.

Michelle, always quick to sense her cousin’s feelings, reached over and gave him a playful shove. “Well, guess what, cuz? You’re spending it with us too! Mam’s not gonna let you mope about on Christmas. Plus, you’ve got Christina now, so you’re sorted.”

Christina squeezed James’s hand under the table, offering him a smile of comfort. He glanced at her, then back at the group, a grateful expression softening his features.

“Yeah, sounds good,” he muttered, his voice quieter now. “Thanks, guys.”

The conversation turned lighter after that, with the girls planning what films to watch and how much chocolate they could manage before collapsing into a food coma. But Erin kept glancing at James and Christina, their connection stronger than ever. It no longer bothered her—she just felt pride, pride that James had found someone who truly understood him.

As they all got ready to leave, Erin whispered to Christina, “You know, we’ll make it the best Christmas yet. Promise.”

Christina smiled, her eyes twinkling. “I believe you.”

********
The two week leading up to Christmas was always a whirlwind, but for Christina and Sean, it felt particularly hectic. The bustling streets of Derry were filled with shoppers rushing to buy last-minute presents, and the air was crisp with the promise of snow. Christina and Sean walked side by side through the crowded mall, dodging hurried passersby as they made their way into a small boutique.

"I don't know what to get her," Sean admitted, rubbing the back of his neck nervously. "Erin's not exactly the type for flashy stuff, and I don't want to mess it up."

Christina grinned, clearly enjoying her cousin’s mild panic over finding the perfect gift. "Sean, relax. Erin's easy to please. It’s the thought that counts, you know?" She nudged him playfully. "But it doesn’t hurt to get her something nice either."

Sean shot her a look of mock exasperation, though a smile tugged at the corners of his mouth. "You’re supposed to be helping me, not making it worse."

Christina laughed, scanning the shelves of scarves, jewelry, and small trinkets. "Alright, alright. Let's think—what's something that reminds you of her?"

Sean paused, thinking it over. "Honestly? It’s her creativity. She’s always writing or coming up with some new idea. I love how passionate she gets about it."

Christina raised her eyebrows. "That’s a good start. How about a beautiful notebook? Something leather-bound, maybe, so she can write down all her stories?"

Sean's face lit up as he considered it. "Yeah, that could work. Something personal, but not over the top."

They found a small section of the shop filled with elegant, hand-crafted notebooks. One, in particular, caught Sean's eye—a deep burgundy leather journal with intricate stitching along the edges. It had a simple but classic design, and the pages were thick and textured, perfect for someone who loved to write.

"This one," Sean said, picking it up and running his fingers over the cover. "It’s perfect."

Christina smiled, watching her cousin's eyes soften as he imagined Erin using it. "She’s going to love it, Sean. Trust me."

Sean let out a breath, clearly relieved. "Thanks for helping me out, Christina. I’ve never really had to pick out a gift for someone I care about like this before."

Christina smirked. "Yeah, well, Erin’s special, isn’t she? You’re doing good."

He grinned, his eyes glinting with excitement. "I think she is. I’ve never met anyone quite like her."

Christina’s heart warmed at seeing her cousin so happy. After everything they had both been through with their families, it was nice to witness Sean finding something real and promising.

As they walked toward the checkout, Sean glanced at Christina thoughtfully. "How are you doing, by the way? I know it’s not easy for you around this time of year."

Christina gave a small shrug. "I’m okay. It’s weird, not spending Christmas with Mum or Dad, but honestly? I feel more at home with James and everyone than I ever did with them. And James has been amazing."

Sean nodded approvingly. "James is a good lad. He really cares about you."

Christina smiled softly, thinking of James. "Yeah, he does. I’ve never felt like this before."

Sean paid for the notebook, and as they left the shop, Christina turned to him with a teasing grin. "Now, don’t forget—Erin’s a sucker for romance. You should wrap it up nicely and write a little note to go with it."

Sean groaned, half-laughing. "A note? I’m not good with words, Christina."

She raised an eyebrow. "Doesn't have to be fancy. Just tell her how much you appreciate her. Trust me, it’ll mean the world."

Sean looked hesitant for a moment, then nodded. "Alright, I’ll give it a shot."

***

Later that evening, as Sean dropped Christina off at the Quinn house, she waved goodbye and watched him drive off, the journal safely tucked in a gift bag in the back seat. As she stepped inside, the warmth of the house enveloped her, and she was greeted by the sound of laughter coming from the sitting room. Erin, James, Michelle, and the rest of the girls were sprawled out on the couches, surrounded by cups of tea and half-eaten biscuits.

Christina walked in with a mischievous smile. "Guess who I just helped pick out the perfect Christmas gift for Erin?"

Erin, who had been chatting with Clare, looked up, her eyebrows raised. "Sean? What did he get me?"

Christina winked. "Ah, I’m not spoiling the surprise. But let's just say it’s thoughtful—and romantic."

Erin blushed, trying to hide her excitement. "Oh, stop it, Christina. He doesn’t have to get me anything fancy."

Christina sat down beside James, who put an arm around her as she settled in. "It’s not fancy," she assured Erin. "But it’s sweet. I think you’re going to love it."

Michelle, sitting on the floor with a cushion in her lap, grinned at Erin. "Aw, look at you. All loved up."

Erin rolled her eyes but couldn’t hide her smile. "We’ve only been on a couple of dates, it’s nothing serious yet."

Clare chimed in with a grin, "Yeah, but Christmas presents mean something. He obviously likes you, Erin!"

As the girls teased Erin, James leaned over to Christina, whispering in her ear, "You did good, helping Sean out. He seems serious about Erin."

Christina smiled softly, resting her head against his shoulder. "I think they’re good for each other."

James nodded, glancing over at Erin, who was still laughing with the girls. He felt a surge of pride for both Erin and Christina. Everyone had come so far, and the bonds between them had only grown stronger.

***********

The Quinn house was filled with the scents of pine needles, gingerbread, and a hint of spiced cider. The holiday spirit had officially taken over, with twinkling lights wrapping around the tree in the corner of Erin’s room. Her nerves were just as wrapped up as the garland on the banister outside her bedroom door. Tonight was her third date with Sean, and it felt like the stakes had never been higher.

Christina, perched on the edge of Erin’s bed, watched as Erin rummaged through her wardrobe, looking for the perfect outfit. "Relax, Erin," Christina said with a soft smile. "You look great already, honestly."

Erin turned, holding up two different dresses—one a classic red sweater dress, the other a more casual plaid skirt and turtleneck combo. "Are you sure? I just don’t know if this is right for a Christmas date."

Christina chuckled, standing up to take a closer look at the outfits. "First of all, Sean’s mad about you. He’s not going to care what you wear. But if you’re asking me…" she pointed at the red dress, "I’d say go for the sweater dress. It’s festive, cute, and it looks super cozy."

Erin studied the dress for a moment before giving a determined nod. "You’re right. I want to look like I made an effort, but not too much."

As Erin began to change, Christina smiled fondly, thinking about how much had changed since she’d first come to Derry. Erin had been a bit distant at first, but now, they were closer than she ever thought possible. It felt good to help Erin with this, especially after everything they had been through.

"Okay, what about the gift?" Erin asked, turning around once she was dressed. "Do you think he’ll like it?"

Christina tilted her head, glancing at the small wrapped package on the dresser. Erin had spent days deciding on the perfect gift for Sean and finally settled on a scotch book and fancy charcoal pencils. It was simple yet thoughtful—she had remembered how he liked to draw and sketch in his spare time, something he’d mentioned casually during one of their earlier dates.

"I think it’s perfect," Christina assured her. "It’s thoughtful, and it shows that you’re paying attention to the little things he says. That’s what matters most."

Erin let out a relieved breath. "I hope so. What did you get Sean for Christmas, by the way?"

Christina grinned, pulling a small gift bag from her tote. "Well, he’s been helping me out a lot, and I wanted to give him something personal, but not too over the top. So, I got him this." She pulled out a silver chain bracelet with a simple, engraved clasp. "It’s something he can wear all the time without it being too flashy."

Erin admired the gift. "That’s really thoughtful. He’s going to love it."

Christina smiled softly. "I hope so. He’s been so good to me lately. I couldn’t ask for a better cousin."

Just then, there was a knock on the front door. Erin’s heart leapt into her throat as she realized it must be Sean. "That’s him!" she said, her voice rising in pitch with excitement and nerves.

Christina stood and gave Erin’s hand a reassuring squeeze. "You’ve got this. Just be yourself, and everything will go perfectly."

******

Sean was waiting in the front hall, his coat buttoned up against the chill outside. He smiled warmly when Christina appeared at the top of the stairs. "Hey, cousin," he greeted her, pulling her into a quick hug when she reached him.

"Hey yourself," Christina replied, stepping back and pulling the small gift bag from her tote. "I’ve got something for you."

Sean raised an eyebrow. "You didn’t have to get me anything."

Christina shrugged playfully. "I wanted to. Go on, open it."

Sean took the gift bag, carefully unwrapping the tissue paper to reveal the silver chain bracelet. His eyes widened slightly as he examined the engraving on the clasp, a subtle nod to his initials and the year. "Christina… this is great," he said, genuinely touched. "Thank you."

"You’re welcome," she said, feeling a little shy. "I thought it’d suit you. Something you can wear without worrying about it being too fancy."

Sean smiled, immediately fastening the bracelet around his wrist. "It’s perfect."

Christina beamed, feeling proud that she had gotten it right. "Okay, your turn. What did you get me?"

Sean chuckled, pulling out a small, carefully wrapped box from his coat pocket. "I didn’t forget about you, don’t worry."

Christina took the box, unwrapping it with care. Inside was a delicate silver necklace with a small pendant—a crescent moon, simple and elegant. Her breath hitched slightly. "Sean, it’s beautiful."

"I figured it’d be something you could wear every day," he said, his voice soft and sincere. "Like you said with the bracelet. It’s not too much, but it’s something I thought would suit you."

Christina smiled, feeling a warmth spread through her chest. "It’s perfect, Sean. Thank you."

Just then, Erin appeared at the bottom of the stairs, dressed in the red sweater dress, looking a little nervous but undeniably beautiful. Sean’s face lit up when he saw her.

"Hey, you look amazing," he said, his admiration clear.

Erin blushed. "Thanks, Sean. You look great too."

Sean took her hand, and Erin felt a rush of warmth and excitement. "Ready for our date?" he asked, his voice gentle.

"Yeah," Erin replied, squeezing his hand. "I’m ready."

Before they left, Erin handed him the small gift box. "I, um, got you something," she said, a little sheepishly.

Sean grinned, taking the box from her. "You didn’t have to, but I’m glad you did."

He carefully unwrapped the sketchbook and pencils, running his fingers over the soft leather cover. When he opened it, he found a small handwritten note from Erin on the inside cover, wishing him a Merry Christmas and saying she hoped he would use the scretchbook to capture all the wonderful things they see together.

Sean’s heart swelled with affection. "Erin, this is perfect. I love it. Thank you."

Erin smiled, relieved. "I’m glad you like it."

‘ I left your gift under the tree’ your mam said it would do you good to have something from me to open on Christmas day.

As they headed out into the cool winter air, Christina watched them go, a wide grin on her face. Erin looked happy, and it made Christina’s heart swell to see her friend finding some joy of her own. James, who had been watching from the hallway, came up behind her and wrapped his arms around her waist.

"They’re cute together," James remarked, resting his chin on her shoulder.

Christina smiled, leaning into him. "Yeah, they are. I think they’re going to be good for each other."

James kissed the top of her head. "Just like us."

Christina turned in his arms, smiling up at him. "Yeah. Just like us."