Work Text:
It’s The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year
Steve
There were no guests in sight, and yet the house already looked like it was a pot seconds away from boiling over.
“Ryan,” Steve found himself yelling, “phone is ringing off the hook; must be dad. Get in here!”
“Coming,” Ryan yelled back, telegraphic as ever.
When he appeared in the doorway, he was sporting festive glitter and a couple ribbons in his hair. “Your daughter has decided tornadoes are a festive occurrence. Me and Santa, we are matching this year.”
Steve laughed. “I should remind Maddie she has two uncles.”
“She has a lot more than that, judging from what your wife seems to be expecting to have to put away later today.”
“Please,” Steve begged, “I’m not mentally ready for that.”
He proceeded to pick up the phone. “Hey, Dad, Merry Christmas.” A beat went by. “So, you’re not coming? Neither you nor Austin?”
Bummer. Samantha had already decided to come after the holidays. And they had so many people coming, anyway…
“You should’ve left with Ryan. He’s already here, repping the clan and all.” He sighed. “Yeah, yeah, yeah, we both wish you happy holidays. And no, I don’t know how long he’s gonna be staying. I don’t have his schedule memorized.”
Janet came barreling into the kitchen holding on to the ingredients for one of her family recipes she decided to make for Christmas, “Steve, I need your help. This is getting very heavy.”
“Yeah, I gotta go dad. Merry Christmas,” he hung up the phone and then rushed over to help Janet. “I know we have a lot of people coming today, but didn’t we go a little overboard with the food?”
Janet looked at him and he couldn’t quite place her facial expression, but he knew it was definitely coupled up with annoyance, “Steve, we have almost everybody we’ve ever met coming over today! We definitely need a lot of food!”
Steve laughed lightly as he wrapped his arms around her and pulled her close, “I promise everything is going to be perfect. And if it’s not, let's just blame Silver!” He let out that ridiculously maniacal laugh he always did.
The doorbell cut Janet’s retort off.
“Speak of the devil,” Ryan chuckled as David popped his head into the kitchen.
“We beat everyone here? Seriously?”
“You’re just in time,” Steve assured. “Ryan’s on Maddie duty. And since Janet’s cooking for an army, you’re helping me chop up ingredients.”
“What about Don—” Ryan ventured.
Steve stole a glance at David. He hadn’t started fidgeting. Yet. “Donna’s just getting settled, Ry.”
“She’s pregnant,” Steve explained. “So, I’m guessing mixing smells is not a good idea. Setting the table okay?”
David’s posture relaxed as he nodded.
“Janet,” Steve turned to catch her eye, “Tablecloth and cutlery in the same cabinet over there?”
“Take over stirring and I’ll go show her.” She hadn’t missed the tension in David either.
We’re two lucky idiots, aren’t we?
***
Donna
It was nice to get a minute in complete silence. It felt like David was becoming afraid of it all of a sudden.
Janet’s voice came as a surprise. “Donna, everything okay?” It was gentle. She wasn’t expecting a crisis.
“I’m fine,” she said quietly. “I’m actually worried about Kelly.”
“Kelly?” Janet questioned, “I assumed it was something with the nervous soon-to-be dad out there.” She giggled a little before taking a seat on the couch next to her.
“Yeah, I just am worried since I’m pregnant that she may be feeling a little upset. Because of her miscarriage and the diagnosis that followed….” Donna didn’t really know how to say what she was feeling. As the words came out it felt like they weren’t doing her feelings justice. Maybe it was the pregnancy hormones just making her second guess herself. “I just hope that she’s okay.”
“I did catch her being a little off when you told us,” Janet agreed. “But I'm sure she isn't holding anything against you. You two have been thick as thieves for—what? Twenty years now?”
Donna chuckled, relief almost pouring out of her. “Give or take, yeah. It’s just weird timing, I guess. And I don't even know how to approach her about it.”
“I’m sure that she is very happy for you. It’s always just hard when you see somebody having something that you may want and knowing you might never have it.” Donna smiled as Janet reached out and squeezed her hand, “Today let’s check on her and make sure she’s okay. We can’t have you worrying, especially not on your birthday!!”
“You're right,” Donna shook herself off. “This is definitely not a birthday mood. Now, how can I help? Please, give me something to do. David's watching me like a hawk and I'm starting to itch.”
Janet shook her head as if to say, men. Am I right? “We have a huge table to set. Come on this way.”
***
Andrea
Andrea had spent the morning arguing with Jesse over the custody agreement they were trying to renegotiate. She tried to put on her happy holiday face, but she could feel all of the emotions bubbling inside of her, “Hannah, honey you rang the doorbell right?” Hannah nodded her head in agreement right as Steve opened the door.
“Well if it isn’t my two favorite Zuckermans,” Steve said with a laugh as he pulled them both into a hug.
Andrea laughed as she playfully shoved Steve, "We’re the only two Zuckermans you know, Steve.”
“And that’s why you’re my favorites!” Steve joked as he moved to the side so they could both walk in.
Andrea took a second to let the warmth of the house seep into her bones before taking off her coat. “Anyone else here yet?”
“Just Donna and David,” Steve said. “Has Brandon told you anything? About what he's gonna do?”
Andrea sighed. “Steve, I haven't seen him or anyone else. Kelly went over to the hotel last night and only called to say we could meet here.” She caught her own control slipping. “As a matter of fact, I spent what felt like five hours on the phone. I just barely got Hannah to eat something.”
Steve raised his eyebrow towards her and whispered, “What’s going on, Andrea? You seem a little tense.”
Andrea let out a light sigh, obviously she was not doing a great job of keeping her composure, “Just been a very long couple of weeks followed up by a very frustrating morning.” She did not really want to ruin the holiday by talking about how badly things had turned with Jesse over Hannah’s custody. She just wanted to try and enjoy the holiday with her friends.
Steve pulled Andrea towards him and whispered in her ear, “Don’t worry Andrea, you’re the smartest person I know. You can handle anything.”
Smiling wasn’t an effort. “Thanks, Steve. It’s nice to be reminded.”
***
Everyone else piled into the Walsh House (a misnomer by now, but it brought Andrea back to that first big Christmas) shortly after.
The group had expanded beyond whatever she might have imagined in school; somehow, though, it gelled incredibly well, down to Clare, Gina and even Valerie.
Andrea’s attention was drawn to Dylan and Kelly. It was, perhaps, an attack of masochism on her part considering what the morning had consisted of, and yet, she couldn't help it. It was as though his entire center of gravity was tied to her most minuscule movement. They’d tiptoed inside with Erin in tow, never once breaking contact—knuckles, fingers—their gazes almost chasing each other.
It was another thing that had not changed since high school. If anything, it evolved to include more instances that would’ve likely had teen Dylan shudder.
They hadn't noticed Andrea watching, both of them too busy in their own little bubble, as if they feared it could burst at any moment. It had been like that since the wedding; you couldn't look at them without seeing them reach for each other or kissing. It had been half hilarious to watch David pretend to be disgusted and half sad—because it drove home that it had never fully been like that for her and Jesse
***
Kelly
Kelly giggled as she playfully pushed Dylan, “I am gonna go talk to Andrea for a minute. Go check on Steve I am sure he’s giving Janet a hard time with the preparations.”
She made her way over to Andrea who looked deep in thought, “Merry Christmas!” She pulled her into a hug and whispered, “We’re gonna have a good day.” She didn’t know everything about Andrea’s situation but they’ve been roommates for months now and she knew things were tense with Jesse, but she never wanted to really push it.
“Damn straight, we are,” Andrea agreed with flair. “You already look like it. Is there a chance you have anything to share?”
Kelly tried to shrug it off. “Am I really that transparent? I mean,” her voice lowered, “I said I’d meet you here because we’re officially… You know—looking. For a house.”
It hasn’t even fully sunk in, to be honest.
“Some people,” she coughed, “Jackie has been dropping hints that she thinks we’re speeding up too much without knowing about it, but it feels like the right step.”
Andrea laughed. “As your roommate who has accidentally walked into some—” Andrea tried her hardest not to blush and failed, “situations, I say go for it.”
Kelly laughed as she was filled with embarrassment, “I am so sorry.” She paused for a moment as she thought about it, “Yeah we’re going to tell everybody today, just wanted to make sure that you were okay with it.”
“Why wouldn't I be? I'm happy you guys decided to take that step. And I couldn't be more grateful to you for letting us crash with you these past few months while I get my bearings.”
Kelly cut her off. “Andrea, you don’t have to do this. I was glad to help. I would be even gladder if you vented to me.”
“Thank you, Kel.” Andrea straightened her glasses. “Same goes for you, you know. It couldn't have been easy to hear about Donna.”
Kelly nodded her head, “It was definitely hard at first, but I am so happy for Donna and David.” She paused for a moment before continuing, “We haven't really told anyone yet but Dylan and I are gonna start trying. We spoke to the doctor and got a plan of action.” A feeling of relief came over her as she finally said it out loud, “Obviously with the endometriosis it will be harder, but they said it is possible.”
Andrea almost drew herself back. “Wow, you guys weren't kidding about going all in, huh? I'm sorry Kel—you just threw me for a loop.”
Kelly shivered. She knew Andrea was trying to be supportive and not assume anything while also not mixing up her own situation into her comments.
“To tell you the truth, I didn't even think about it until Dylan just went and bought me a painting, but that's another story. Just—wish us luck. I guess.”
“I’m always wishing you luck, Kelly.” Andrea’s tone was supportive and loving and exactly what Kelly needed to hear.
Andrea began to say something else as she reached for Kelly’s hand and squeezed it gently to comfort her, but before they could continue Donna and Janet approached them.
***
Donna
“So glad you could make it!” Janet greeted, pulling Andrea and Kelly into a hug with Donna following closely behind.
Andrea grinned. “We wouldn’t miss it for the world, right, Kel?”
Donna caught Kelly nodding and something in her stomach sank. All this silence was getting to her.
“Obviously,” Kelly started to agree warmly— exactly like you'd expect from a diversion.
“Listen, Kel— I can't take it anymore. I don't know if you're thinking something about this pregnancy or not this pregnancy and just you and future ones because of what I said.” She was rambling. The picture of someone reassuring.
Great. Absolutely fucking fantastic and motherly.
“What I meant to ask is, are you okay with this whole—thing?”
“Donna—”
“No, Kelly, let me finish. I know it's hard, I just also want you to know that I want to be there for you.”
“As do I,” Janet chimed in quietly.
“Thanks, guys.” Kelly's voice sounded watery. “I love you and appreciate you. But you can rest easy. Dylan said you would say that.”
Donna and Janet exchanged a look.
“Or—maybe, not rest easy,” Kelly continued, “just rest, because A)Donna needs to, anyway; and B) Dylan and I could hypothetically end up needing some sitters in the not so distant future.”
Donna’s mouth dropped with shock, but she was filled with excitement. Just the thought of them raising children together was enough to make her cry with happiness. “Kelly, that’s wonderful news.” She lovingly pulled her into a hug, and the feeling of relief took over. She wasn’t upset with her, she wasn’t hurt by her, and things can go back to normal.
Janet smiled warmly at Kelly, “Please let me know if there is anything we can do to help you with this process. You were so helpful when I found out I was pregnant, and I want to be as helpful as possible to you.”
Kelly laughed. “Oh, trust me, I have a feeling I’ll end up driving you insane.”
***
Clare
Clare finished dropping off her gifts for the kids under the tree and then made her way over to find her friends. She noticed the girls all standing close together in a circle and immediately realized they had to be gossiping about something.
“What are we whispering about over here?” Clare whispered with a light laugh. She didn’t really like feeling on the outside of her friend group.
The girls all looked towards Kelly, almost waiting for permission before she whispered, “Dylan and I are trying to have a baby!”
Clare excitedly pulled Kelly into a hug, “I am so happy for you. You need to keep me updated on how the process goes! Okay?”
Kelly snorted. “I’ll have to start a mailing list.”
Clare shook her head laughing. “Yeah, well, you guys practically asked for it. You had us hooked. Don, do you remember that porch kiss?” She paused long enough to mimic swaying. “I swooned.”
Donna nodded. “It’s been five years, and sometimes, it still feels like I’m staring at something I shouldn’t be staring at.”
Clare laughed harder as she caught Kelly’s blush spreading exponentially fast. “God.” she groaned, hands flying to her mouth, “How—how the hell did you guys even see that?”
“Eh,” Clare shrugged. “Magic.”
During their back and forth, she noticed Andrea getting a faraway, almost glassy look, not really watching any of them. They hadn’t hung out much with her move during sophomore year, so Clare had no idea what could be lurking there. “Everything alright, Andrea?”
Andrea responded in a way that felt like she was just trying to get the conversation moving on to something else, “Yeah I’m okay. Just holiday stress.” She laughed lightly, but Clare was not falling for that response.
“Andrea, I know we may not have stayed in touch that much, but I can still tell when something’s wrong.” Clare wanted to make sure that all of her friends knew that she was there for them even if they’re not always physically in the same place.
“Thank you, Clare. I’m sorry if I sound brusque, I’ve just been having the same long winded fight with Jesse since I decided to move back.”
“Can confirm that,” Kelly discretely piped in, “I don’t think I’ve ever heard Andrea yell like that.”
Andrea went on, tone rising, as if fortified by that assessment, “And to top it off, not only does he act like I’ve gravely wronged him. It’s all a jumble of, I’m a law professor and you have me twiddling my thumbs over your dumb pretenses. When all I want is to not cut him off from his daughter while getting back to my actual job. Also known as, saving lives.” It looked like her eyes were going to start twitching. “Demanding, right?”
Clare tried to respond, but she was immediately overtaken by Donna who pulled Andrea towards her, “I’m so sorry you are going through all of that. I can’t imagine how frustrating it is to try and do what’s best for you and Hannah and still have to listen to what Jesse wants too.”
“Andrea, I know I haven’t known you as long as Kelly or Donna has, but I do know you’re an amazing person and an even better mom. You’ll get through this I’m sure of it.” Clare tried her best to comfort Andrea in the only way she knew how.
Janet chimed in, “And don’t forget you have all of us in your corner.”
Kelly smiled as she reached out for Andrea’s hand, "Always."
Andrea squeezed back, almost choking on her words. “Thank you, guys. I was trying to keep it together for Hannah and the holiday, but he’s been pissing me off ever since the reunion with something different practically every other day. I also have hospital everyday problems to deal with; I felt like I was gonna boil over.”
Clare was tempted to high five her. “I may not be doing a residency, but I feel like those are evergreen. Cancer research is hard and a bureaucratic minefield.” She joked, “Run away, kids.”
***
Brandon
Brandon walked over to Dylan and Steve who were laughing in the kitchen as David was trying to keep up with the baking instructions Donna gave him. “Hey, who let you guys in charge of the kitchen?” He stepped inside with a laugh as he greeted the boys, shaking his head at the chaos.
“Donna and Janet told me exactly what to do, so I’m just trying my best,” David said, clearly frazzled as Dylan and Steve just continued chatting away.
“Hey Brandon, did you tell the guys your big news yet?” Steve asked excitedly.
Brandon froze. He wasn't second guessing his decision, but he had hoped this conversation would happen midway through the meal. “Not exactly,” he hedged.
Dylan stared at him as though he could see through him. “Let me guess,” he said, “you're thinking about settling down.”
He wasn't teasing or goading him. He'd gone straight to the point, and something in his voice made Brandon's snappy comeback—what, like you—stick to his throat. “More like moving.”
“Move like…” Steve cut in, arching a brow, “back here?”
“Damn it,” he huffed, only pretending to be annoyed, “you ruined the surprise, Sanders.”
Before Steve could offer any jab back, Brandon caught Dylan and David exchanging a look that seemed to say, oh, boy. I've been through this exact thing before.
“Well I for one am totally excited,” Steve celebrated before quietly questioning, “Wait are you taking this house back?”
Brandon couldn’t stop himself from laughing as he shook his head, “No, I am not taking the house back. I may need to crash for a few days, but I’m never taking Maddie’s home from her.”
Steve almost shook with relief.
Dylan and David kept looking at each other in quick succession. Brandon couldn't decipher what it meant, but the sheer volume of their movements was on its way to freaking him out.
“Alright,” he said curtly. “Out with it. What are two silently bubbling about over there?”
David looked down, while Dylan echoed, “Bubbling about? Are you fifty?”
Brandon glared.
Dylan seemed unaffected as he cleared his throat. “Relax, man. It's just—Andrea is in a little jam right now.” He lowered his voice, “don't tell her I told you, but things with Jesse are testy; Kel and I have found ourselves accidentally eavesdropping on a fair amount of yelling that almost shook the beach house. But—again. Do. Not let it slip that I said anything.”
Brandon turned to try and steal a glance at Andrea who was still standing in the other room with the girls. She looked like she was doing okay, but she hadn’t been as in touch as she used to be. That wasn’t like her, “Oh.” He whispered, “I didn’t know.”
Dylan cut him a look that unequivocally screamed, no shit, Sherlock.
“She intends it that way, I think.”
“B,” David cut in, “Are you guys… You know.”
“I don't know, Silver,” he said truthfully. “I just know that whatever we actually are, I want it to exist in the same state. And I'm tired of not seeing you guys all the time, too. I mean, all I saw of Maddie were photos until now. I can't have your kid,” he shuddered theatrically, “prefer Sanders as an Uncle. It's a terrifying thought.”
***
David
“Thank you so much for letting us have cake for Donna here,” David smiled at Janet as she was finishing gathering the desserts for the next round of holiday eating.
“Of course, Donna is family and we’re so grateful we can celebrate her with you.” Janet’s tone was always loving and you could tell she meant what she said.
David put the candles in the cake and then whispered to Kelly who was standing by the lights, “It’s ready!” Kelly hopped into action and shut off the lights as the group began to sing happy birthday to Donna.
Dylan was the one leading Donna into the living room, and David had to force himself not to chuckle. Who woulda thunk it, huh, Mr. Loner?
Erin jumped out first, dragging the other kids with her, and everyone else dove in after her. “Happy birthday, Donna!”
His wife grinned. “Oh, wow,” she breathed, “thanks, everyone, you guys didn’t have t—”
“Babe,” David cut in, chuckling, “I’m pretty sure I’m legally required to acknowledge the double holiday. I mean, you deserve some spoiling just ‘cause you’re you.”
Kelly nodded. “And speaking of spoiling—ta-dà! Your favorite cake, Don.”
“Well,” Donna joked, “you could’ve led with that!”
“Uh, guys,” Steve snapped his fingers, brows crinkling, “aren’t we forgetting something?”
What could we possibly be forge— “Oh, crap,” David shook his head. “Donna, the candles. Blow ‘em out.”
Donna smiled as she leaned over and started to blow out the candles. David couldn’t help but be filled with pride seeing everybody together celebrating his wife. He thought back to that first Christmas when he found out Donna’s birthday, and about all the many birthdays they’ve celebrated together since. He couldn’t have asked for a better partner in life and he would take any time he could to spoil her.
“What did you wish for, Donna?” Erin asked as she pushed her way past David to be next to her.
Donna smiled down at her and then bent down so she was face to face with her. “I don’t need a wish…” Donna paused for a minute, looking at everybody she loved in the same room, “I have everything I could ever want.”
David leaned forward, towards Erin’s ear. “She shouldn’t say anyway, Monkey; it’s bad luck to spill it out.”
From the huddle of the gang as they lined up to cut the cake, Val spoke up. “Well, kid, I would settle for real estate advice. I’ve been reminded why moving is a bit—erm, big hassle.”
Brandon rolled his eyes upward. “You tell me, Val. It’s a literal hellscap—hey, wait a minute.” his eyes narrowed. “You’re moving too?”
Val blinked. “Must’ve missed that memo.”
***
Val
It honestly just slipped right out. Val didn’t come here with the intention of announcing that she was moving back, but now it’s out and there was no taking it back.
She felt everybody’s eyes on her, processing what she just said. Oops. “Well we actually sold the house in Buffalo. We realized that it’s not healthy to live in the same house all of that trauma happened…” She paused for a moment, “Or at least that’s what my therapist said.”
Before the ensuing silence could swallow the entire house, she rounded on Brandon. “What's your excuse, Boy Scout? And why aren't your besties surprised?”
He didn't fall for her bait and said simply, “I wasn't planning on saying anything. I'm considering it because I miss this place.”
Fair enough. “Must be the Christmas spirit because I do, too.” She shrugged and added coolly, "even you, Kelly.”
Kelly pretended to grimace, but she seemed genuinely glad to hear that. “Look at it this way,” she murmured, “neither of us is gonna have to think about ever hosting my dad.”
At her side, Dylan frowned. “Wait—am I missing something here, Kel?”
For a nanosecond, Val and Kelly were each other’s mirror: identical expressions of—disgust? No, disdain crossed their faces.
“My mom and Bill Taylor were engaged for a hot second.”
Dylan scowled. “Are you kidding me?”
Kelly laughed, genuinely entertained by the utter disbelief on his face as she leaned back into his chest. “ ‘fraid not, McKay.”
Val shook her head at the thought of her mom marrying Kelly’s dad, but secretly she was just relieved the conversation had changed off of her move.
“We’re going to have to discuss this in more detail later…” Dylan said towards Kelly, but everybody could read the confusion on his face. “But since everybody seems to be announcing stuff, Kel and I have some news.” Dylan paused and Val truly couldn’t tell if it was for dramatic effect or if he was just waiting for Kelly to jump in, “We have started house hunting, together.”
Kelly took her cue from Dylan and continued, “The beach house will always be my first home away from home, but we want to keep moving forward in our relationship, so we decided we want to move in together.” Val couldn’t believe it but she was actually happy for them. It always seemed like they couldn’t avoid each other even if they were supposed to. She’d never admit it out loud but she was always sorta jealous how ride or die they were for each other. She wished she had someone in her corner like that.
Erin clapped. “Ooooh, can I come visit?”
“Better yet,” Dylan grinned. “You can have your own room, Erin.”
Kelly rolled her eyes and muttered, “you pushover you.”
He nuzzled into her neck, and Val felt her chest constrict. “You know you like it.”
“Okay, okay, okay,” Val held up a hand, nose wrinkling. “We get it; you two are stuck in the honeymoon mode harder than the moms and the dads present, no need to rub it in. I will tell you that it is nice to see, as someone who didn't grow up with that… atmosphere.”
Kelly seemed to grow serious. “Believe it or not, it's relatively new for me, too. Until high school, it seemed like a made up concept with my dad acting like a ghost most of the time.”
Val scowled. “Ugh, that would have made mine bearable, I think. Kind of.”
“Well, I guess we both can start over now, with traditions and everything, can't we?”
Val had to agree. She raised a forkful of cake in Kelly's direction. “Cheers to that, Kelly.”
David cleared his throat. “Just think,” he whispered, “next year, Dylan and Kelly could be hosting.”
Dylan hung his head. “You just had to go there, didn't you?”
“Oh, hush,” Donna muttered. “You love celebrating.”
“Celebrating yes,” Steve chimed in, “Cleaning up? That, I doubt.”
Brandon smirked. “Feeling the pressure already, Sanders?”
***
Andrea
Andrea was surrounded by friends and family laughing and celebrating Dylan and Kelly’s announcement, but she had never felt more alone. Seeing her friends happy and in love just reminded her of how poorly her own love story turned out. Her and Jesse always had their problems, most of which weren’t resolved before Hannah joined them, but things had gotten progressively worse over the years and now here she is sitting at Christmas dinner feeling totally lost.
She sighed. There was no reason to dwell on something that would obviously last a long way past the holidays. She should try to focus on enjoying her daughter and finding her place here all over again.
I can do this. I totally can.
Her pep talk was unceremoniously slashed by her ringtone. She glanced down—Jesse.
Talk about killer timing, huh?
“Sorry, guys,” she muttered over the chatter, barely hearing herself or any response, “I have to take this.”
Andrea got up, ducked out towards the back yard—there was no other place out of earshot—and took a breath to steady herself.
Time to face the music
***
Brandon
Brandon watched as Andrea excused herself from the room. He thought of how Dylan mentioned all of the fighting she was doing with Jesse and wanted to go after her, but before he could go check on her his phone rang.
He picked up the call almost on autopilot. “Hey, Bren. Merry Christmas, sis, you sound like a zombie.”
“Jeez,” her voice crackled as she dragged the word out. “So much for brotherly affection. We've been living in different timezones for years and you still think it's funny. I should've called Mom and Dad first. Who’re you tagging along with?”
She couldn't see him, but Brandon still grimaced as though Brenda had hit him in the chest. “Ouch—that hurts. Y’know, the usual suspects: David and Donna, Kelly and Dylan, Andrea. Steve and Janet are hosting.”
Brenda chucked. “And the house is still standing? Consider me impressed.”
“Sssh,” he chided, “he could hear you. And he’s already stressed. You don’t want poor Janet on your conscience, do ya?”
“Perish the thought,” Brenda snarked. “Listen, do me a favor and wish everyone happy holidays from me, Bran,” she yawned, “I would go round everyone but I am actually beat and I gotta start cooking soon.”
“I'll let you go,” he said, “if you promise to show up sooner or later. Possibly with your boyfriend in tow.”
His sister laughed openly. “We'll see about that. I love you, Brandon.”
Brandon found himself echoing her as he shook his head. “Yeah, yeah, yeah. You always cut to that. One of these days it’s gonna stop working, though.” His voice softened. “But I do love you too.”
He’d barely hung up and settled the phone back into his pocket when he caught some faint murmuring. He couldn’t be a hundred percent sure, but it sounded like it was Andrea’s voice. She sounded tired like he couldn’t recall ever hearing her. And angry.
It felt like his stomach had just been ripped open and someone had shoved a hot poker right through it.
Brandon shot to his feet.
As he moved closer, he caught some clear scraps of conversation. And they were enough to make him feel as though the hot poker had shot up all the way to his brain. “Jesse,” Andrea hissed likely for the umpteenth time, “we’ve been having the same conversation for I don’t know how long now. Can we please—try and think about Hannah’s wellbeing?”
***
Andrea
She didn't need to be face to face with him to know he'd just rubbed the bridge of nose with impatience. It was practically burned into her eyeballs by now.
“Andrea,” he sighed back, and she felt like a stubborn kindergartener. “We’ve been over this. I can't allow Hannah to be around addicts on the other side of the country.”
Because she's been followed around and spied on to undermine you. Yeah, right.
If she weren't holding her cellphone, she would cross her arms so tightly her chest would hurt. “So let me get this straight,” Andrea was back to hissing, “my career and my overall mental stability sinking faster than the fucking Titanic was fine—expected even. But God forbid you tolerate my friends. Friends who, by the way, always tried to stick up for this sham of a marriage.”
“The friend in question,” his voice dripped with disgust, “is an addict. Or have you forgotten the coma?”
I haven't. Just like I haven't forgotten how hard he's tried to make Hannah laugh.
“He's in recovery. Excuse me for not shaming people.”
“Shaming peopl—I’m a lawyer, Andrea. I have a reputation to uphold. A reputation that pays your alimony, by the way.”
Snivelling little rat.
“I get it. Your job is important. More important than mine.”
“Not this again,” he huffed. “You made it clear you had different priorities; it's why we are in this boat to begin with.”
“Silly me,” she retorted, caustic to a fault, “for wanting to be a doctor and help people.”
His inhale rang like an icy shot in her ear. Before he could attack again, she muttered, “You know what, Jesse? It's Christmas and I'm tired of fighting, call me back when you decide to put the offensive on pause and decide to act like you miss your daughter as a kid and not a prop.”
She hung up.
Softly, she heard from somewhere behind her, “Chief, you okay?” and only realized it was Brandon when she heard herself gulping.
She turned so slowly it felt like time had frozen over.
He wasn't moving or trying to make her speak or distract her in any way; he wasn't even trying to puzzle together what had happened.
Brandon was quite literally just standing there. Waiting on a cue from her, whatever that may be.
Later—much later—she would conclude that that simple non gesture was what set her off. “I don't know, Ace,” she gasped as her throat burned, “I truly do not fucking know.”
Brandon must have taken that as a go ahead to approach her because he moved swiftly in her direction and reached out for her hand, “Let me know what I can do.”
Andrea shook her head as she let out a big sigh, “For right now let’s just head back inside.”
Brandon nodded his head towards her, “I’m always just a phone call away.”
Andrea smiled softly at him. She felt a small bout of relief knowing that Brandon had even a slight idea of what she was going through.
Andrea watched as Brandon walked back into the house giving her a moment to be alone and catch her breath. She paused for a moment as she tried to gather her composure. She almost didn’t even realize Clare was approaching.
***
Clare
Clare stepped out into the brisk air because she desperately needed some space. She loved being around her friends and celebrating the holidays together, but she couldn’t help but feel like she missed a few steps when she moved away. Now that she was back home and trying to catch up on everything she’d missed, it honestly felt very lonely.
Clare looked around the backyard as she tried to ground herself, but quickly noticed that Andrea was standing outside too. “Oh Andrea, I’m sorry. I didn’t realize you were out here.” She felt embarrassed and like she was intruding on Andrea’s private time.
“That’s alright, Clare. I was just taking a phone call and getting some fresh air.” Andrea walked towards her, looking slightly better than she did that morning, but you could tell she was still frazzled.
“Holidays can be a bitch, huh?” Clare said matter-of-factly.
Andrea burst out laughing and nodded in agreement, “Totally.”
“Are you doing okay? Really?” Clare questioned. She didn’t want to overstep, but there was something in Andrea’s expression that nagged at her. Clare wasn’t going to leave Christmas without letting Andrea know she was there for her.
“I’m getting there.” Andrea tried her best to grin. “It’s just—a bit of shock, being back. When I left I felt so grown up, and look at me now: I’m a mess and everyone looks so put together.”
“I know the feeling.” Clare rolled her shoulders. “I mean, my ex has a baby. The same ex who got into all kinds of shenanigans in college. Don't get me wrong, I wish them all the best because I see how happy they are, it's just—a lot.”
She lifted her pinky towards Andrea. “You and me against the passing of time?”
Andrea's grin turned genuine as she lifted her own. “You and me, Clare. We gotta get together before you leave and compare notes.”
“Give me a date and I'm there.”
***
Brandon
It took him what felt like an eternity to calm down. He wouldn't have pegged Jesse Vasquez for such a cold hearted bastard, but apparently the years had done a number on him.
When he slipped back into the living room he noticed Andrea was still outside, maybe with Clare.
“Guys,” he said jovially, “that was Brenda on the phone. She couldn't say much because she has a packed day ahead, too. But she told me to tell you all to have happy holidays.”
Donna pouted. “It's unfair we keep missing her.”
“I told her that too, Don. We're gonna have to kidnap her at some point,” he joked.
“Speaking of kidnapping,” Nat cut in as if sensing the mood was getting too sad for a holiday, thinking about how life got on between friends sometimes. “Any chance you’d help out at the Pit while you get settled? We’re a bit short staffed right now.”
“Nat,” Joan sounded appalled. “On Christmas? Seriously?”
Steve blinked. “Ugh, can’t believe he beat me to asking.”
Janet threw him a sideways glance. “What,” he insisted. “Brandon has a fantastic eye for typos and we’re also shortstaffed.”
Brandon laughed. There’s no place like home indeed.
***
Janet
As the night began to dwindle down and people started to leave, Janet couldn’t help but feel a twinge of sadness. They had an incredible day and she was so grateful for everybody who came over, but her parents mentioned they would stop by and they never did.
Before she could get too caught up in her own thoughts Donna approached her, “Hey thanks so much for having us over. It was a beautiful day.”
Donna’s gratitude snapped Janet back to reality as she smiled towards her, “Of course. Thank you for coming!”
One by one, the rest of the group said their goodbyes, offering hugs and thanks, but still Janet felt a bit empty inside.
She hoped that the chaos would offer her a cover. She wanted holidays to be a happy time for Maddie; both she and Steve were dead-set on being a happier, more open family than the ones they’d grown up in.
Ryan sort of snuck up on her, a sleepy Maddie in his arms. “She’s conked out,” he said softly. “I better get her upstairs before she wakes up.”
“Thank you, Ryan,” she whispered.
Leaning forward, her brother in law whispered back, with child-like joy, “No, thank you, Janet. Holidays have always been so chaotic; Steve was so—relaxed today.”
His words stayed with her. Even while cleaning up she was quiet, almost melancholic. She tried brushing it off, but Steve noticed. Beneath the jokester persona, her husband had always been very perceptive.
“You okay there, honey?” He was usually as loud as he possibly could be; this time his question barely echoed above the clang of pots and pans.
The impulse to mutter a quick excuse—like being tired—almost leapt off her tongue, burning in her throat.
Steve was faster, though.
“You seem a little off. I know I said cleaning up is the worst part of hosting before, but I was just nagging on Dylan. You know how he is.” Steve shook his head. “Help in a jam, he’d offer in a heartbeat. Volunteer himself for programmed manual labor? Not without bitching first.”
She couldn’t help herself. “At least Dylan would show up for Maddie,” she pointed out, her bitterness ringing out loud and clear. “Everyone would. Everyone except her own grandparents, apparently.”
“Janet—”
“No, Steve.” She didn’t want a fight, but she needed all these feelings out in the open before they chipped away at her in some irrevocable way. “I know your mom warned us ahead of time and your father isn’t that reliable to begin with, but if I think about what my parents acted like while I was pregnant—”
She had to stop because the rest of the sentence felt like a series of hot rocks clogging up her throat.
“They’re never here, Steve. Not to get to know Maddie like Ryan is doing. And he’s in college. It should be the last thing on his mind.”
Steve reached out, gently placing both hands on her shoulders. “Janet, listen to me, okay? Put down the dish.”
She did.
“I know it stings,” he continued. “Believe me, I know. I’ve had years of this weird song and dance; it’s the strangest push and pull. But I wanna be clear, what you and I have got going with Maddie and our friends? It’s there, and it matters, honey. And Maddie’s always gonna have someone to celebrate with, I can promise you that much.”
Janet tried not to squirm as she felt tears pool at the corner of her eyes.
She cleared her throat.
“Thank you,” she sniffled as the weight on her shoulders loosened.
Steve grinned as he rubbed at her shoulders. “Anytime, Mrs. Sanders, anytime.”
***
Donna
Donna, David, and Gina strolled into the house feeling full and exhausted from all of the holiday cheer. The Christmas tree was glowing in the corner and the quietness of the house filled Donna with warmth and comfort.
“Hey, have you heard from your mom today?” David questioned as he closed the door behind them.
Donna was in the corner putting their Christmas gifts under the tree, “No, and I have called her a few times today.” She was trying not to worry, but it was not like her mom to disappear like that.
Gina was dropping her things off in the guest room, but popped back in the living room, “I actually reached out to her this morning too and never heard back. I was going to ask you about her.”
Donna knew that her mom was struggling after her father’s death, which is why she asked Steve and Janet if they could bring her for dinner, but Felice refused.
Donna felt her shoulder tighten despite being inside. Her mother was stubborn. She almost heard her quip back, who do you think you take after exactly?
“I don't know what to do,” she admitted. “I understand that I can't force her, but she is spending so much time alone—it worries me.”
Gina walked closer to her to wrap an arm around her. “She just misses—” it had been a while but Gina still hesitated to refer to her—their father as such.
“I know,” Donna murmured. “We all do. And I wish I could make it hurt less.”
David reached for her free hand. “You two checking in on her counts, Don.” His gaze lowered past her chest and he smiled tenderly. “Can you imagine Felice Martin being referred to as Grandma?”
Donna and Gina snorted almost in tandem; Gina's eyes popping.
“Don't be so loud,” she chided. “You might make her appear—”
“—and she'll rip you a new one,” Donna finished with a headshake.
David shrugged. “Worth a try. She'll do something at least.”
“Why don't you invite her for New Year's?” Donna suggested. “ She has warmed up to you a lot.”
Gina laughed. “Donna Marie Martin, you're a sneak.”
Donna flicked her chin at her. “Sneak-schneak,” she muttered. “A girl's gotta do what a girl's gotta do.”
David brought her knuckles to his lips and kissed them. “Whatever it is, I've got your back, Mrs. Silver.”
Gina raised her hand, palm held towards Donna. “Here's my five. Operation Get Felice To NYE is a go, then.”
***
Dylan
There was a crisp feeling in the air as Dylan and Kelly stood outside their car with Nat, Joan, and Frankie. Even though they were at the Peach Pit almost daily at this point, they somehow ended up standing there for what felt like half an hour just talking about life.
“Listen we have to get the kid home soon, but let us know when you’re going to open houses and we’ll come with you!” Nat said enthusiastically. Dylan couldn’t help but smile. Even though Nat wasn’t related to him by blood, he really was the closest thing to a parental figure he ever had.
“I don’t think the kids need help with that, Nat.” Joan said with a light laugh. You could tell she was slightly embarrassed by the offer but mostly proud of Nat’s kindness. Dylan couldn’t help but hope that when he and Kelly reached their age, they’d be just as in love.
“No, of course we do!” Kelly replied. It was clear from the look on her face that she was appreciative of the offer. Maybe it was because her father was nonexistent. Nat really was like their group’s father figure.
Dylan nodded in agreement. "Yeah, we’d love for you to join us.”
“We need someone practical,” Kelly said. “If it were solely up to Dylan, we'd end up with thirty rooms or something.”
She was teasing, but he knew she was thinking about—later. While trying not to act like she was scared of getting too far ahead of herself.
Nat shook his head. “You rich types are really something else.”
“Rich types?” Dylan parroted. “Is that any way to talk to your boss?”
“A boss I kept fed,” Nat reminded him.
“And I'll always be grateful for that,” Dylan said quietly, clapping him on the shoulder. “So, be ready because I want to find the perfect house.”
Nat chuckled. “That I was expecting. Don't worry, we'll keep our eyes peeled.”
***
“Erica said Merry Christmas,” Dylan placed his phone down on the table and then plopped down next to Kelly on the couch, wrapping his arms around her. “She’s actually going to come out for New Year’s.”
Kelly smiled at him, “That’s great!” Even though she answered him, it felt like she was a million miles away. He could tell that something was on her mind. He wasn’t sure what exactly but he could always tell when something was off.
“Hey, are you alright?” Dylan nudged her slightly to try and bring her back to focus.
“I have to tell you something,” she said. She sounded suddenly on edge, and Dylan had to force himself not to react.
His thumb started rolling gently across her knuckles. He nodded at her. Words felt like a risky move.
“I know we said we'd keep it to ourselves, because we've just started talking about it, but—” she ducked her head. “The girls and I were talking and I sort of—let it slip that we're gonna try. To have a baby, I mean.”
“Kel—”
She didn't let him get a word in, but she nodded as though he had.
“I know that we've had only one discussion and we didn't even scrape the surface of the issue, but Donna was worried I would be upset and the girls were literally there when it happened; Andrea helped me process so I—”
“You felt comfortable,” he surmised quietly. “Kel, it's fine. I understand.”
Kelly blinked. “It doesn't bother you that I did it so fast?”
Dylan shook his head, “Not at all, Kel. It's not like you told some strangers at the store, you told our closest friends. How could I ever be upset about that?”
He watched as she visibly relaxed, a look of relief washing across her face, “You’re the absolute best.” Kelly smiled at him, then added softly, “How did I ever get so lucky?”
Dylan pulled Kelly closer to him as he whispered in her ear, “I’m the lucky one.” He smiled brightly as he felt the comfort of her in his arms, “I can’t wait to see what our future holds, together.”
Kelly pressed her nose into the curve of his neck as he leaned down to kiss her head. “Together.”