Let's Share A Habitat

[MAXINE MCMANUS]

Maxi and Maureen had been out all day looking at apartments. There was no lack of them in Scriptor Bay—the lack was in decent affordable ones. It was a far cry from Friday Harbor where real estate was a steal and Maxi could tell her sister found it somewhat discouraging. The best apartment they found was only the best because it had working heat and both a washer and dryer—it was also in need of a facelift in the bathroom and the kitchen and the garbage disposal didn’t even work. But Maxi did her best to cheer Maureen up with her reassurance that she would find something to go with her new job at the hospital and she would finally be closer to her and Drew. Maxi was most excited about that! Having her sister right around the corner would allow them to go to lunch or coffee during the week as opposed to every other weekend. But she knew the happiest person in this arrangement was Drew—he’d have his girlfriend around all the time now!

The only reason Maureen was moving was because her parents had hired help to come over and check on them every day and even help tidy up around the house. Even with that, it took a lot of urging from the Aberdeens and Maxi alike to convince her sister to move to Scriptor Bay. Knowing Maureen, she’d probably still travel up there every other weekend or at the very least once a month to check on them. It was going to be a hard transition even with Maxi and Drew to help smooth it over. Even with the time to prepare for the move, it hadn’t proved an easy task. All of her stuff at home was packed up, but there was nowhere to send it! Finding the right apartment was difficult and even with the last couple weekends scouring apartments, Maureen hadn’t been in love with any of them. The time for her new job to start was fast approaching and though Maxi didn’t mind having Maureen on her couch for as long as she needed to be there, it was obvious Maureen didn’t like encroaching on her space. August also didn’t seem particularly happy with the arrangement, but his reasons were selfish ones and he knew it—he just didn’t like not being able to have sex wherever, whenever, and however loud they wanted.

But tonight they were celebrating with a home-cooked meal. Maxi was making slow-cooked chili with a side of rice and Maureen was baking cornbread and a pie. Drew and August were both come over and Maxi couldn’t help but be excited at her first double date with her sister and their boyfriends. She knew it was bound to be a little awkward with how different August was from the rest of them, but Maxi was confident they could at least minimize the awkwardness with three amicable personalities like the McManus girls and Drew. The smell of chili was permeating the house as Maureen shut the door to the oven. “The cornbread’s almost done, right? How’s the pie?” Maxi asked, wiggling her eyebrows playfully. With her elbows on the counter and her chin rested on her hands, she looked like an impatient little kid waiting for her dinner. Maureen teased her for it and she giggled before playfully pouting and spilling across the counter dramatically. “But I’m hungryyy!” she whined, obviously intentionally mimicking a child now. She grinned up at her sister from the counter, righting herself once more. It was nice to be able to be so silly—it was hard to be that way around August, even if they loved each other.

[DREW SOLOMON]

Drew couldn’t even begin to describe how happy he was that Maureen was moving to Scriptor Bay. Over the last few months it was hard to be away from her for extended periods of time. Every morning he wished she was lying beside him and it was the same when he went to bed at night. He would often think of her throughout the day and wish he had her to come home to. When she announced that she had gotten a job at Scriptor Bay Memorial, he was overjoyed. The little minx hadn’t even hinted she was trying to get a job in town! But his elatedness was a little dampened by how sad she seemed to be leaving her family behind. Even he would miss seeing as often as he did, especially her brother. They were pretty close now and Drew would genuinely miss having beers with him and his dad out on the porch. The good news was it wasn’t a terribly long drive to get back. No doubt Maureen would want to go back as often as she could to check up on her parents.

When Maxi and Maureen first went out to look for apartments for Maureen, Drew began to really wonder why they should. He had plenty of room in his apartment in Trail Oaks. It was a nice complex and community with everything conveniently located nearby, including a gym and a pool. The drive into the city proper wasn’t bad at all and if she preferred her furniture to his, he didn’t mind trading out. Overall, it seemed like the perfect solution. But it was a nerve-racking thing to ask. They didn’t live near each other now—would they be okay living together here and suddenly seeing so much of each other? On one hand Drew saw it as a dream come true, but on another he knew there was a possibility of arguments between them. Sure, he couldn’t ever imagine fighting with Maureen now that they were full grown adults and in love, yet he knew living together could change things. The more he thought of it, the more possibility he saw in her finding flaws in him. He was gassy after eating Mexican, he left his dirty socks in the living room and sometimes he left dishes in the sink for more than a day. If she did any of these things, even fart constantly, he’d still love her, and even get used to the smell…but could she do the same? She was perfect just the way she was, but he was so full of flaws…it made his stomach turn to think she would stop loving him because of any of them.

He had to remind himself that they practically lived together on their visits anyway. It was only for short spans of time, but they were around each other constantly and didn’t kill each other. They didn’t even argue except for a few playful tiffs, most of which ended in him tickling her until she couldn’t breathe. He’d even stayed for a week and found the experience of being around her all the time quite pleasant—intoxicating, even. This was the logical next step and after dinner tonight he had every intention of voicing his proposal. Even if his tongue twisted in his mouth and his heart leapt into his throat, he was determined to ask his girlfriend to live with him! If she said no, he would be understanding and try not to be too defeated every time he saw her crashing on Maxi’s couch! Actually…no, he wasn’t going to think about her saying no. He had to be confident! As he walked up to Maxi’s red-painted door, he heard the girls talking inside. He clicked the fob to his car, the Jeep beeping happily to let him know it was locked, and then he tried the door. Usually Maxi was good about locking it behind her, but she’d slipped up this time. Drew walked right in to the smell of spicy heaven and the sound of a familiar whiny voice: “But I’m hungryyy!” The phrase, the way it was spoken, who was speaking, all of it threw him back to childhood and he smiled wide as he slipped his coat off and headed for the kitchen. “God, you’re annoying.” Both girls looked at him with matching, surprised eyes before Maxi laughed. “Not as annoying as you, dogface.” Drew slapped a hand to his chest like he was hurt, his coat draped over his arm even though there was still a scarf tied around his neck. “Ouch! I’ll have you know I am adorable.” He grinned down at Maureen who he was now standing next to, slipping his free arm around her waist. “Right, baby?” As she answered in the affirmative, he leaned down and planted a sweet peck on her lips before smiling wide down at her again. When he looked back at Maxi, her nose was wrinkled cutely in playful disgust. “That’s cheating. She’s biased.” “So are you.” She stuck her tongue out at him and Drew returned the gesture. It really felt like home.

[MAUREEN ABERDEEN]

The decision to move to Scriptor Bay had been a difficult one that had taken Maureen a long time to make. Several things needed to fall into place in order for things to start coming together, the first of which was Maxi falling into a coma. Maureen had been more than a little distraught by the incident and had stayed close to the city as much as she could, coming down every weekend and some weekends staying for an additional day. Her parents encouraged her to stay by her sister for a while, and when she finally agreed they started putting their own plans into motion. They hired a woman to come in to help with the cleaning and cooking. She ran errands and assisted them with sorting their medications, all the things Maureen used to do plus so much more. While Maureen was down she happened to see a job listing at the hospital while Maxi was there getting her follow-up checkup complete, which happened to be the exact same position she currently had at the hospital in Friday Harbor. On a whim she sent in her resume and was called in for an interview the following week. Everything just fell into place and she couldn't help but think it was fate pushing her back towards her home. Maybe the magic of the tree, who knew. Either way she was resistant to change, and hated the thought of leaving the comfort of her family, even if it was to be with her true family. She'd become so sheltered, so unlike the person she was probably meant to be. Then there was Drew.

Drew. Maureen got butterflies in her belly every time she thought about how often she would get to see him now. In a way she was really glad she only had a few vague memories of their childhood together. She worried if she had it all that it would somehow taint their relationship like it did for Drew and Maxi. The two were truly practically siblings. Would she be that way with him? Play around and call him names the way Maxi did without an edge of flirtation in her voice? It was a moot point. She didn't remember, and she was glad for that. Now if she could only find a place to live. The apartment situation in the city was a rough one. The good ones were too much, the affordable ones were too crummy. Her parents offered to help her out, but she wasn't a child and felt wrong taking money from them. That was their nest egg. Luckily Maxi was letting her stay until she got on her feet, which Maureen enjoyed, though she was sure Maxi's boyfriend didn't. Though they had gotten along well enough at the hospital, August had become a little distant once more. Not that he'd ever really opened up to her, but Maureen got the impression that he was annoyed with her presence in the home. It was simply more motivation to find her own place.

Tonight, though, was a fun night. Hopefully. It was Maxi and Maureen's first double date together ever. She was excited and nervous, more because of August than anything else. Would he clam up? Open up? Say something about her staying at Maxi's? He was unpredictable, but the other two would make the dinner fun and enjoyable. “The cornbread’s almost done, right? How’s the pie?” Maureen rolled her eyes and shook her head, exasperated. "Yes, miss impatient. The cornbread will be done in two or three more minutes. The pie will be ready in a half hour or so, so you'll just have to wait." Maxi slid her body across the counter and Maureen had to giggle and roll her eyes again, shaking her head as she turned back towards the stove, the pink cupcake printed apron wrapped around her waist. “But I’m hungryyy!” Maureen turned and playfully pouted at her little sister. "Poor baby." She teased gently just before Drew appeared in the doorway, her eyes widening and gleaming with pleasure. Would she ever get tired of seeing him walk into a room? “God, you’re annoying.” Maxi laughed and Maureen couldn't help the wide grin that slipped over her lips. “Not as annoying as you, dogface.” Maureen actually snorted a laugh. "Maxi!" She scolded, though her tone was clearly amused. It was moments like this she was glad she had found her way back into their lives. “Ouch! I’ll have you know I am adorable.” Drew had moved closer and slipped an arm around her waist. “Right, baby?” "Absolutely." She giggled playfully, leaning into his gentle peck, her mouth still stuck in that wide, silly grin. “That’s cheating. She’s biased.” “So are you.” Maureen rolled her eyes. "Alright, alright, stop fighting. You're both adorable and you're both annoying, alright?" She teased and reached up into the cabinet to get the dishes down. "Maybe setting the table will help keep your mind off your grumbly tummy, hm?" She suggested to Maxi before eyeing Drew. "And as for you, why don't you put the cheese and sour cream out into serving bowls." Delegating had become routine for her now that she was living part time with her sister. It just felt so strangely natural to be there with her.

[AUGUST WITT]

Since Maxine woke from her coma, August had been a little more over protective of his girlfriend than he was before. He wore his ring every day, opting to stay near and on call for when she needed him. He'd given her strict instructions to call him or text him when she arrived home from work, or when she went out with her sister, and always before bed if she wasn't spending the night or vice versa. If she didn't he would call her, and though he knew he was being possessive, it was what needed to be done in order to keep her safe. Or at least to give August some piece of mind. It was the second time she'd landed in the hospital during their relationship, and just as before, he'd taken his time bringing her to bed again. The problem was, once he did start fucking her, she'd brought her sister home to live with her until she could find a place of her own..

August liked Maureen. She was kind, she was beautiful, and for the most part she didn't get in the way. Only, just being there made her in the way. August felt stifled by her presence. He couldn't be himself, he couldn't do what he wanted or say what he pleased. She was just a room away at all times it seemed and it was infuriating. He brought Maxine to his home plenty, but his girlfriend didn't like leaving her sister alone in her home. It was "rude". So August ended up staying with her more often which frustrated him. And now he was expected to play nice on a double date.

August hated the idea of sitting down for dinner with Maxine, Maureen and Drew. The three of them got on great, but August was different. He didn't find humor in the same things, and didn't always know how to be a part of the conversation. It wasn't as though he disliked the other couple, he just had little to talk to them about. He grabbed a bottle of wine, even though they were having chili, and made his way to Maxine's home. He knew immediately that he was the last to arrive by the number of cars out front, and when he opened the door he heard all the voices from the kitchen. Two women and a man. August cleared his throat loudly to call attention to himself, not wanting to barge in and interrupt whatever conversation they were having. "Hello?" He called out. He heard the clanking of some dishes and Maxine calling him in. He moved to the kitchen, noticing Maureen at the stove while Drew and Maxine set the table. "I brought wine." He declared to no one in particular, setting it down and heading more into the room to see if he could be of any assistance, and to greet his girlfriend properly.

[MAXINE MCMANUS]

Maxi enjoyed these play fights she and Drew would have from time to time. He really was like a big brother and she dearly loved him for it—he certainly didn’t have to be such a constant in her life. Of course, Maureen being the big sister and the peacekeeper, she butted into their argument. “Alright, alright, stop fighting. You’re both adorable and you’re both annoying, alright?” Maxi laughed and grinned wide and Drew pouted a little before he laughed too. Maureen turned to grab some dishes out of Maxi’s cabinets and Maxi took the opportunity to stick her tongue out at Drew quickly, who of course returned the favor. “Maybe setting the table will help keep your mind off your grumbly tummy, hm?” Maxi smiled and began to make her way around the counter to grab the dishes from her sister. “Okay!” she piped cheerfully, happy to help. “And as for you, why don’t you put the cheese and sour cream out in serving bowls?” She glanced back and saw Drew put his arm back around Maureen’s waist, leaning down to say something softly into her auburn hair. Maureen giggled, but Maxi just smiled to herself. Yes, it was weird knowing Drew and Maureen were together romantically considering they’d all grown-up like a brother with his sisters, but in a way it seemed meant to be. They were perfect for each other and it made Maxi ecstatic to see them both so happy. Especially when she was so happy herself…

Just as August popped into her head, she heard his clear his throat in the hallway and her head lifted immediately. “Hello?” Her heart fluttered and she smiled wide. She’d never stop being excited at his presence. “We’re in here!” Maxi called back, setting a bowl and a small bread plate on a placemat to finish what she was doing before hearing August. When she looked up again he was walking from the hallway and into the kitchen, looking grumpy but as handsome as ever. Drew distracted her when he walked behind her with two bowls, one with sour cream and one with cheese. He was smiling at August. “Good to see you, August!”[/i] He always sounded so sincere and Maxi could never tell if he really was or not. But she liked to think he really was happy to see August. “I brought wine.” August placed the bottle on the table and Maxi smiled, moving around the table so she could greet him properly. “Thank you for bringing that! It’ll go well with the pie we’re having for dessert!” she said with a bright smile. When she was in front of him, Maxi put her arms up around his shoulders and tilted her head to the side gently. “Hi baby.” Her voice was soft and sweet, hoping to wipe that grumpy frown off his face. She felt better when his arms came around her and he leaned in to kiss her. They were in front of company, so it wasn’t a long kiss, but it was a sweet, proper greeting.

When he pulled back, she let her arms slip from around his neck, one hand patting his shoulder. “Go ahead and hang up your coat while I finish setting the table.” As he turned and went the other way, Maxi turned back to her task of setting out dishes. Drew sidled up next to her, singing under his breath. “August and Maxi sittin’ in a tree k-i-s—”[/i] Maxi grinned and punched him in the arm as he laughed and took two quick steps away from her before she could get her hands on him again. “Open that wine, Drew, so it can breathe.” She worked quickly, finishing the job she started before August got there. There was shuffling and the sound of several drawers opening and Maxi looked up suspiciously. Apparently Drew couldn’t find the wine key. She bit back a smile as she remembered that being an issue the first night she and August spent together. “It’s in that drawer next to Maureen’s left hip.” Drew turned to look for it there and she noticed August coming back into the room. She wondered if he remembered that night as vividly as she did.

[DREW SOLOMON]

When Maureen’s back was turned, Maxi stuck her tongue out at Drew and he did so in return before grinning. Maxi went off to set the table, her gentle red curls bouncing as she made her way to the table. “And as for you, why don’t you put the cheese and sour cream out in serving bowls?” Drew looked at Maureen now addressing him and he smiled wider, wrapping his arm around her tiny waist as he came beside her. He leaned down, his nose tickled by her auburn hair as he brought his mouth close to her ear. “I kinda like it when you’re bossy.” It was a playful comment, one he was certain Maxi wouldn’t hear, but she would hear Maureen’s giggle. He pressed his lips to her temple before releasing her to do as she told him. Two bowls were already set out for the sides, so Drew simply rummaged through Maxi’s fridge for sour cream and cheese.

It didn’t take long for him to fill the bowls and by the time he was walking over to the table, he heard a man clear his throat in the hallway. It caught everyone’s attention. “Hello?” “We’re in here!” Their last guest had arrived, though as he walked into the room, August didn’t look terribly happy about being there. It was hard for Drew to decipher the man. He had only ever been reticent around Drew, the complete opposite of Maxi, and even seemed angry most of the time. On the other hand, he had been there for Maxi when she was shot and rarely left her side when she was in the coma. He only left to work when he needed to. It was obvious he cared deeply for the girl Drew saw as his little sister, and it was certain Maxi loved August with all her heart, but they were still such a strange pairing. He must have been a different person when he was alone with Maxi, otherwise she wouldn’t light up the way she did when she saw him. So he smiled and said, “Good to see you, August!” The two greeted each other and Drew busied himself not just with setting out the sour cream and cheese, but with setting out glasses as well. August had brought wine, but it would go better with their dessert, as Maxi said, so he set out regular glasses. August left to go hang his coat and Drew made his way next to Maxi, taunting her softly: “August and Maxi sittin’ in a tree k-i-s—” Maxi punched his arm before he could finish and he laughed as he hustled away, trying not to get hit again; not that it really hurt. He moved around the counter back toward his girlfriend who was now filling a serving bowl with rice.

“Open that wine, Drew, so it can breathe.”[/i] Nodding, he grabbed the bottle and went to the counter to open it. There was just one problem: he didn’t know where the wine key was. He started opening drawers and shuffling through them, trying to find the tool but turning up nothing. “It’s in that drawer next to Maureen’s left hip.”[/i] Drew turned, taking Maxi’s direction. He placed a hand on the small of Maureen’s back so she would know he was behind her and opened the drawer next to her hip. Yep, there it was. He pulled it out but took the opportunity to squeeze Maureen’s hip and make her jump before snickering and escaping to the end of the counter. As he started to open the bottle, he smiled over at August, now returned to the room. “How have you been, August? Has it been difficult to catch up on work since Sleeping Beauty woke up?” He grinned at Maxi who glared at him playfully before they both looked at August for a response.

[MAUREEN ABERDEEN]

Maureen felt Drew's arm slip around her waist and she leaned into him playfully, giving him a slight hip bump. “I kinda like it when you’re bossy.” He whispered into her ear and all she could do was giggle. "Get out of here!" She scolded playfully under her breath for only him to hear. She felt the smile spread on his lips before he pulled away, leaving her beaming there at the counter as he did what she asked. August arrived and she turned and smiled when he walked into the kitchen before pulling out a serving bowl for the rice. She hoped things would go well. She was looking forward to a nice evening and part of her hoped that Drew would invite her to spend the night by him since she had the feeling that August intended to stay. Just as she was thinking about Drew he came over, pulling the wine key from the drawer and squeezing her hip playfully. "Stop that, you!" She scolded with a smile, flirting a little. She wasn't sure she would ever grow tired of Drew and his silly ways.

“How have you been, August? Has it been difficult to catch up on work since Sleeping Beauty woke up?” Drew asked August as Maureen brought the rice to the table. She went back to the stove and pulled the corn bread out as August spoke to the others. "A bit." The other man responded, not sounding all too pleased with the question. Maureen frowned but kept her face away from the group, cutting into the corn bread. "I'm just glad she's awake." He added and Maureen turned to the group. "Drew would you come grab the cornbread?" She asked. He graciously did so and she handed him the plate, her eyes meeting his. "I don't think August really wanted to do this." She said softly, pursing her lips to the side and darting her eyes quickly to Maxi and August who were talking softly between themselves. "I think he's getting annoyed that he has to share Maxi so much lately, especially after being in that coma. Maybe.. do you think it would be alright if I stayed with you tonight?" She asked, biting her lower lip. "Give those two some privacy? I know Maxi feels awful leaving me here alone to go over to his place, like she's abandoning me." She giggled softly, but Drew understood and agreed, and she knew he would say yes so when he did she smiled. "Thanks, sweetheart." She stood on her toes to plant a swift kiss on his lips before pressing the plate to his stomach. "Now go set that out." She said as authoritatively as possible, teasing him for his comment earlier about liking when she was bossy.

The food kept coming out to the table and the group finally settled down, dishing supper onto their plates and pouring wine and water into glasses. Maureen heaped some of everything onto her place, topping it all with a sprinkle of cheese. They all made light conversation and Maureen watched as Maxi beamed with happiness that the group was all together. "Oh, so they're having the Christmas parade next weekend. I've never been before and.." The look on both Drew and Maxi's face told her that she had, in fact, been before. She blushed a little and gave a nervous laugh. "That I remember, anyway.. and I was wondering if you guys maybe wanted to go. I wasn't sure if it was a thing we all did or not.." She knew immediately that August wasn't into that, but he kept his mouth shut, looking as though he would go along with it if Maxi begged him to. Maybe. He was hard to read.

[AUGUST WITT]

“Thank you for bringing that! It’ll go well with the pie we’re having for dessert!” He offered a forced smile, clearly uncomfortable with the soiree. Maxine attempted to lift his mood by slipping her arms around his shoulders, her head tilting gently to the side. She understood his discomfort and knew not to push any further than she needed to, something he appreciated given the fact she forced him into these situations that made him feel awkward. “Hi baby.” He gulped and gave another slight smile, this one a little more relaxed and not so forced. "Hello." He offered softly, his own arms slipping gently around her small waist. He sighed as she kissed him, trying to relax a little. "The things I put up with for you." He grumbled almost playfully against her lips as she pulled away.

“Good to see you, August!” Drew all but chirped, and just like that August felt tense once more. Why were these people all so happy? He preferred the mood to be somber. Morose even. "Likewise." He lied pleasantly enough to sound convincing. “Go ahead and hang up your coat while I finish setting the table.” August did as he was asked, slipping his coat off and moving to the hall closet to hang it. He saw Maxine and Drew scuffling playfully and he felt himself bristle slightly. He knew there was nothing between them, but that didn't stop the annoyance from bubbling in his stomach. He couldn't help bit be a little possessive of her, even with someone she considered family. The fact was he wasn't actually family, and there would be no moral code stopping him from taking her to bed. Deep down he knew it would never happen, but August wasn't necessarily a logical man. He returned to his girlfriends side as she pointed out where the wine key was to Drew, his arm slipping around her side almost protectively. He looked down at her with a knowing smile, hunger in his stormy eyes, recalling their first evening together and how the wine key played a large part in it. The look she offered back showed she was thinking the same thing.

All too soon Drew was back at the table, screwing the key into the bottles cork. “How have you been, August? Has it been difficult to catch up on work since Sleeping Beauty woke up?” Again he bristled at Drew's choice of words. He didn't like the man referring to his girlfriend as Sleeping Beauty first, and he didn't like questions that inquired about his private life with the little redhead. "A bit." He said softly, not wanting to ignore him or come off as rude for Maxine's sake. The things he put up with for her.. "I'm just glad she's awake." He added before Maureen pulled Drew away to the stove with her. August watched the man walk off and then turned back to Maxine. "Stay with me tonight." He pleaded softly. "Maureen will be fine on her own. Hell, Drew could stay here with her. It's been a long week and I'd prefer to unwind with you tonight. Alone." His fingers gently grazed her cheek as they traveled to her ear, tucking some stray hairs behind it before gently tugging at the lobe. "It would mean a great deal to me if you would." He added, and though she hesitated slightly, she did accept. A part of him breathed a sigh of relief knowing there was a very bright light at the end of the tunnel.

The food came all out and they all took their places at the table, dishing food onto their plates. Chili wasn't really something August enjoyed all too much, but he would eat out of politeness. The group all spoke as wine was poured and August contributed only when necessary. "Oh, so they're having the Christmas parade next weekend. I've never been before and...That I remember, anyway.. and I was wondering if you guys maybe wanted to go. I wasn't sure if it was a thing we all did or not.." His eyes darkened slightly at the prospect of another double date, and so soon. He said nothing, looking at Maxine as if to silently tell her if I must.. He reached for his wine, taking a deep gulp to keep from having to speak anymore than necessary in that moment.

[MAXINE MCMANUS]

“Has it been difficult to catch up on work since Sleeping Beauty woke up?”[/i] Maxi threw Drew a playful glare which only made him grin. “A bit. I’m just glad she’s awake.” Now it was Maxi’s turn to grin, but she was grinning at her boyfriend. It was a sweet sentiment, especially because they were in front of company and she could tell how uncomfortable August was. She’d have to thank him properly soon for being social for her sake. "Drew would you come grab the cornbread?” Maxi glanced at Maureen and saw Drew move to the oven to offer his assistance. Just as she looked back to August, she saw him leaning in to say something softly to her. “Stay with me tonight.” Her eyes widened slightly, coloring faintly at the fact that her sister and informal brother were standing right nearby. Before she could even bring up the fact that she couldn’t do that, that it would be rude to leave Maureen alone, August continued. "Maureen will be fine on her own. Hell, Drew could stay here with her. It's been a long week and I'd prefer to unwind with you tonight. Alone.” She bit her lip and glanced at her sister again. Drew would stay with her…The feel of August’s long fingers brushing her cheek called her gaze back to his. Just the simple gesture of pushing her hair behind her ear and tugging the lobe made her heart skip. "It would mean a great deal to me if you would.” He knew exactly how to get what he wanted from her. She didn’t want to leave Maureen alone, but it had been almost two weeks since she’d spent a proper night with August. If being alone in Maxi’s house was upsetting to Maureen, she’d have to beg forgiveness later. She nodded her head gently. “Okay. I’ll stay with you.” August was obviously satisfied with that answer.

The gang finished setting the table and all gathered around to share in the feast. Maxi took some of everything before mixing it all together and digging in. They made small talk and Maxi looked between everyone at the table. August obviously wasn’t that keen on being there, but he was making an effort, and that meant everything to Maxi. And Drew and Maureen gave no sign that they even noticed August’s discomfort other than to avoid asking too many personal questions. They were adjusting to his personality even though they didn’t have to—Maxi was thrilled. It wasn’t the perfect get together that others might hope when dining for the first time with family and a significant other, but it was close enough for Maxi.

"Oh, so they're having the Christmas parade next weekend. I've never been before and..” Just like that, Maxi’s stomach dropped a little and she looked from Maureen to Drew. Yeah, he felt it too. The Christmas parade was something they all had looked forward to every year when they were growing up. Some of Maxi’s best memories were of riding her dad’s shoulders while Maureen rode their mom’s, watching excitedly as the floats went by. Drew would be there with his mom as were all of the Millers and the Periwinkles. Jamie would ride his dad’s shoulders too and the two of them would play, “I’m not touching you!” She could still remember the smell of her dad’s auburn hair and the feel of it beneath her fingers as she held onto him for support. It made Maxi sad to know that Maureen couldn’t remember those days. Maureen must have seen the look she and Drew exchanged since she gave a nervous laugh. "That I remember, anyway...and I was wondering if you guys maybe wanted to go. I wasn't sure if it was a thing we all did or not...” Maxi could feel the excitement bubbling in her chest that she used to feel as a kid. The Christmas parade with her sister and Drew again! Her bright eyes turned to August and she could see immediately that he was reluctant at the idea. Parades weren’t his thing and she was well aware of that. Maybe if she promised to thoroughly make it up to him he wouldn’t resent her too much for dragging him along. Obviously she couldn’t do that in front of Maureen and Drew, though. They didn’t need to hear everything she would have to promise in exchange for August’s presence. Under the table she squeezed August’s hand gently. “I’d love to come along! But let me get back to you with a definite answer. I’m just not sure what our schedules look like off the top of my head.” It was a good excuse that would buy her and August some time to discuss it later.

[DREW SOLOMON]

“A bit.” It was obvious from the way August answered the question that he wasn’t too happy with it. Was it Drew’s Sleeping Beauty comment? He hadn’t meant to offend the guy… “I’m just glad she’s awake.” Drew pushed a smile on his face and nodded. Before he could agree with the man, Maureen was calling his attention once more. "Drew would you come grab the cornbread?” He turned to her and nodded, eager to help. When he reached her, Maureen’s deep blue eyes came to his as the plate was pushed into his hands. "I don't think August really wanted to do this.” Her eyes darted over to August and Maxi and when Drew turned slightly to look for himself, he saw the pair talking quietly amongst themselves. He couldn’t blame Maureen if she wasn’t very keen on the guy. Drew wasn’t either. He just came off as possessive and taciturn. But he had been there with Maxi all through her coma, proving that he did love her, despite his cold manner. "I think he's getting annoyed that he has to share Maxi so much lately, especially after being in that coma. Maybe...do you think it would be alright if I stayed with you tonight?” Drew’s eyes widened a bit. Did she even have to ask? "Give those two some privacy? I know Maxi feels awful leaving me here alone to go over to his place, like she's abandoning me.” Drew smiled at her soft giggle. Of course this would work in his advantage too with the question he wanted to ask her. “Of course you can stay. I’d like to get you alone anyway.” He grinned playfully and Maureen smiled. “Thanks, sweetheart.” She kissed him quickly and he smiled against her mouth. Drew loved how sweet she was in everything she did. Just as he was reflecting on that, Maureen pushed the plate of cornbread into his stomach insistently. "Now go set that out.” Her grin and bossy tone showed her playfulness and Drew gave it back with a look like he’d been struck, his mouth pursing like he was impressed. “I love it,” he teased before grinning and walking to the table.

Once the table was set with their delicious meal, they all gathered around to dig in. Drew took a hearty portion, tearing into the cornbread with his first bite. It was perfectly sweet and moist. He complimented the chefs in turn before they began their small talk. August was mostly quiet and Drew didn’t ask him too many questions, but he ignored the awkwardness of it. If August didn’t want to talk, no one at the table would make him. Maureen was gracious enough to adopt the same attitude, it seemed. Overall, it was turning out to be a pleasant meal. "Oh, so they're having the Christmas parade next weekend. I've never been before and...” Well, it was just a small setback in the pleasantness of the dinner. Drew felt a lump in his throat suddenly, glancing up at Maxi and noticing she was probably feeling the same. The Christmas parade had always been a good time for the three of them as kids. The Millers and the Periwinkles would join them as well and as the floats went by they all excitedly waited for a glimpse at Santa Claus. Drew would even tug on Maureen and Maxi’s legs as they sat on their parents’ shoulders, just to make them laugh. And when Santa did appear, his mother would lean down, wrap her arms around him and say softly, “Merry Christmas, my sweetheart.” It was sad to think that Maureen couldn’t remember those times as well as he and Maxi did. She must have sensed their consternation as she let out a nervous laugh and looked between them. "That I remember, anyway...and I was wondering if you guys maybe wanted to go. I wasn't sure if it was a thing we all did or not...” Drew smiled and Maureen and reached under the table to squeeze her knee gently. Even if she couldn’t remember, at least she was trying to rekindle the happiness of her childhood.

“I’d love to come along! But let me get back to you with a definite answer. I’m just not sure what our schedules look like off the top of my head.” Drew was sure she said this because of the reluctance on August’s face, but he wouldn’t make it any more awkward for the guy. He smiled wide. “That’s fine! Totally understandable.” He then turned his warm smile to his girlfriend. “You know I’m in. We used to go to the parade every year when we were kids. The Millers and the Periwinkles would come too. Maybe we should invite them to come along too.” Maureen seemed nervous but excited at the idea of seeing everyone again. No, his mother and the sisters’ parents could no longer be there, and some of the Millers were still overseas, but they could make the best of what they had. Drew wanted to make it a tradition again to build new memories with old friends and the love of his life. He turned his gaze to August and let curiosity get the better of him. “Does your family have any Christmas traditions, August?” The holidays were always a happy subject in his mind and he hoped it would be the same with August. Then maybe he wouldn’t be so reluctant to answer the question. He just didn’t want the guy to feel left out of the conversation of Christmas memories.

[MAUREEN ABERDEEN]

“I’d love to come along! But let me get back to you with a definite answer. I’m just not sure what our schedules look like off the top of my head.” Maureen smiled at her sister, but it was partially forced. One look at August told her he was the reason behind her answer. Of course he didn't want to go. She couldn't blame him, he didn't seem the type to enjoy something like that, but she didn't like that Maxi would consider missing out on his behalf. “You know I’m in. We used to go to the parade every year when we were kids. The Millers and the Periwinkles would come too. Maybe we should invite them to come along too.” Her smile brightened again. That would be exciting! Being with the whole gang again was a bit intimidating, though. Last time she saw one of the Miller girls she gushed over her and Maureen felt like an idiot when she talked about the old times. She remembered some of them, but not nearly enough to reminisce with this girl she barely remembered from her childhood. "That sounds wonderful." She insisted, wondering if Jamie would be in. She knew he was in town now, but wasn't entirely sure for how long.

“Does your family have any Christmas traditions, August?” Maureen took a bite of her supper and looked at August as he was thrust into the spotlight once more. "We all get together and have supper on Christmas eve." He explained almost matter of fact. "On Christmas day we get together for brunch and exchange gifts. Nothing exciting." On the contrary, Maureen thought it did sound exciting. "I think that sounds really nice." She said, sipping her wine. "We always go to church on Christmas eve. The church we go to does a beautiful ceremony with the choirs singing. The whole week leading up to Christmas they do nice things, like the children's choir does a little show, and they always have a live nativity scene and a reenactment. I actually played Mary about five years ago." She blushed and looked around, then her eyes went downcast. She had a feeling her old self might not have liked that sort of thing too much. Or maybe she would have. She rolled her shoulders. "We usually just spend the holiday together. I still sleep at my.. the Aberdeen's on Christmas. My brother and his family usually come over first thing in the morning for breakfast and present opening." Maureen peeked at the others, unsure how they would feel about all of what she said. She was always so afraid to open about the life she'd lead.

"But I'm not in Friday Harbor this year!" She continued with a wide smile. "So.. what did we do as kids? What memories I have of it are vague? I want to reenact a McManus Christmas!" She insisted, beaming and reaching for Drew's hand, which she took and squeezed. "McManus Solomon Christmas." Her smile became more playful as she added her boyfriend and long lost childhood friend into the plans. "I should warn you, I get a little nuts with Christmas. It's probably my favorite holiday ever."

[AUGUST WITT]

“I’d love to come along! But let me get back to you with a definite answer. I’m just not sure what our schedules look like off the top of my head.” Everyone at that table knew her words were meant for him. She wasn't giving an answer out of respect for him and August was pleased by it. He didn't like plans to be made like this where he didn't get the opportunity to really debate. He was polite at least. He gave a small smile and then looked back to his food. Drew chimed in that he would be going which meant Maxine would of course want to go as well. August really didn't care if she went. Hell, he hoped she would. Maxine enjoyed those things, and her family would be good company, even if August didn't necessarily approve of them completely. He, on the other hand, would stay home unless she insisted. He had no desire to stand in the cold in a large crowd of screaming people and watch poorly made floats and people in ridiculous costumes bounce by in the freezing weather. His bed was far more appealing, and warming Maxine up when she returned sounded nice as well.

“Does your family have any Christmas traditions, August?” He wasn't expecting the question and looked up at Drew before washing his food down with a sip of water. "We all get together and have supper on Christmas eve." He explained. "On Christmas day we get together for brunch and exchange gifts. Nothing exciting." And it was true. There was very little excitement in the whole Christmas thing for them. They saw some family, but it was really a quiet holiday, which is how he preferred it. Even as a young boy August remembered that everything was done almost like a pleasant chore. The meals were prepared, the drinks were poured, the presents were unwrapped.. they simply went through the motions without the emotions attached. "I think that sounds really nice." Maureen chimed in. Of course she did. She's never been present for a Witt Christmas, and if she had she probably wouldn't think it sounded all that nice.

Maureen went on to describe her own holiday experience. August watched Maxine more than her sister, always finding her facial expressions interesting and hard to read when Maureen spoke. August still wasn't sure how his girlfriend felt when her sister spoke of the life she had lead, oblivious to the sister she'd left behind. "But I'm not in Friday Harbor this year!" Maureen continued, excited now for some strange reason. "So.. what did we do as kids? What memories I have of it are vague? I want to reenact a McManus Christmas! McManus Solomon Christmas. I should warn you, I get a little nuts with Christmas. It's probably my favorite holiday ever." August never understood the excitement behind Christmas. Sure, it was nice and all, but people obsessed over it way too much. He himself didn't bother putting up a tree. What was the point? Real or fake they were a pain in the ass. All that Christmas crap was a pain in the ass.

[MAXINE MCMANUS]

“Does your family have any Christmas traditions, August?”[/i] Maxi hoped August wouldn’t be perturbed by being thrust into the spotlight again by Drew’s question, but he didn’t seem upset about it. She smiled a little and perked up to hear about what Christmas was like in the Witt house. Maybe someday she would get to experience it for herself… “We all get together and have supper on Christmas Eve. On Christmas day we get together for brunch and exchange gifts. Nothing exciting.” Maxi could definitely see her boyfriend coming from a low-key Christmas background. It was probably quiet and formal and she could see August and Gwen celebrating Christmas perfectly in her mind. August’s father was the only one missing from the picture, but then she’d never seen a picture of the guy. She wondered if Eponine and her family went too. She imagined they would probably be present for Christmas Eve dinner. Before she could ask, Maureen was commenting on August’s description of the Witt family Christmas. “I think that sounds really nice.” Maxi smiled at her sister, adoring how sweet she was. She nodded in agreement, smiling back at August. Her hand rubbed his arm gently and subtly before Maureen went on to describe the Aberdeen Christmas. “We always go to church on Christmas Eve. The church we go to does a beautiful ceremony with the choirs singing. The whole week leading up to Christmas they do nice things, like the children’s choir does a little show, and they always have a live nativity scene and a reenactment. I actually played Mary about five years ago.” Maxi smiled warmly, picturing Maureen’s Christmas in her mind. She could see Maureen playing the Virgin Mary, cradling the Christ child beside the manger. It was something the Maureen she grew up with might have done, loving the spotlight, but also because she had loved Christmas so much. They all had. Maureen blushed and looked around the table, rolling her shoulders in a shrug and Maxi smiled cuter. She really was adorable.

“We usually just spend the holiday together. I still sleep at my…the Aberdeens’ on Christmas. My brother and his family usually come over first thing in the morning for breakfast and present opening.” Though Maxi continued to smile, she felt a pang of loneliness that her sister had celebrated Christmas with a family all these years when Maxi had not. It was selfish and she was genuinely grateful from the bottom of her heart that Maureen had found such a warm, loving family to take her in, but she could help but be reminded of her own loneliness. Sure, she’d had her grandparents to celebrate with for about ten years after she’d lost her parents, and up until last year she had spent Christmas with the Periwinkles, Millers and Drew, but it wasn’t the same as having a real family to celebrate with. Last year she’d been so happy just to have August with her after the sun went down on Christmas. This year was a Christmas miracle—she had family again, and old friends, and the man she loved to celebrate with. Maureen seemed happy to move to this year’s Christmas too with her next statement. “But I’m not in Friday Harbor this year! So…what did we do as kids? What memories I have of it are vague. I want to reenact a McManus Christmas!” Maxi giggled, watching as Maureen took Drew’s hand and Drew squeezed hers back in return. “A McManus-Solomon Christmas. I should warn you, I get a little nuts with Christmas. It’s probably my favorite holiday ever.” Maxi grinned, swallowing another bite of her chili. “That’s nothing new.” Her voice was playful and she shared a knowing smile with Drew.

“When we were kids, Mom always insisted that we take a bath before church on Christmas Eve because, ‘Santa only comes to clean children.’ Of course, it was probably because we’d get so dirty and disheveled from playing with Gus Periwinkle, the Millers, and Drew all morning on Christmas Eve. We always did holiday arts and crafts and would end up with all sorts of craft supplies in our hair, on our clothes and all over our skin. So after she bathed us, she’d dress us up in our Christmas dresses before we all went to church. Dad had to bribe us with peppermint sticks to get us not to ruin them or our hair before we got home. It was usually your fault if they got messed up.” Maxi put her hands up defensively at the look Maureen shot her, trying to look innocent. “Not that I’m accusing you of anything. It’s just the truth. You were the one that always dragged me with you to go running around in the churchyard before church started.” It was a fond memory to think of all the times she and her sister went screaming between the lit trees, chasing each other until they fell down on the ground with scuffed shoes and grass-stained knees accentuated by the white tights their mom dressed them in. “Mom would get so mad when we’d have to go through the mass all tousled and messy. So Dad started giving us candy before and after church to make us be extra good. When we got home, Mom would dress us in our matching Christmas PJs before making us go to bed early. Of course, we didn’t get to sleep for a couple hours, not until we’d exhausted ourselves with whispering about what we wanted to find under the tree, giggling about things we wanted but probably wouldn’t get, and straining to hear movements on the roof or the sound of jingle bells. Inevitably one of us would wake up in the middle of the night and wake the other so we could go downstairs and look at all the presents. We’d get so excited we’d start shivering! And then we’d wake Mom and Dad up before the sun even came up. Dad always pretended like he couldn’t hear us and we’d have to crawl all over him before he’d even get up.” She giggled at the memory, still remembering the way his warm green eyes would peek open and then close again, turning away from his two anxious daughters. They would laugh and climb onto the bed, throwing their tiny bodies over him and shaking him, their tiny voices getting louder and louder as they urged him to wake up. He’d always catch both of them and roll onto the bed with them underneath him until they shrieked happily. Then he’d pretend to wake up with a start and look at them with sleepy surprise. “How’d you two get here?”[/i] he’d ask while their mother laughed and grinned from the side of the bed, watching with loving eyes. If only she could go back to those days…She smiled warmly before going on. “Anyway, Mom would make monkey bread for breakfast while we opened presents. Then we’d pass out about midmorning until Grandpa and Grandma McManus would show up in the early afternoon. Then we’d watch Christmas movies and play games until dinner and then again after dinner. It was always warm and loud and happy in the house. It really was the best time of the year. Drew even came over with his mom a few years.” She smiled at Drew, who was also smiling happily at the memories Maxi shared. Yes, Maxi missed celebrating Christmas with her family, but she could always look back on her childhood Christmases with happiness.

[DREW SOLOMON]

Drew was relieved to see August wasn’t put off by his question as he prepared to answer it. “We all get together and have supper on Christmas Eve. On Christmas day we get together for brunch and exchange gifts. Nothing exciting.” It seemed fitting. Drew didn’t know August that well, but he’d already gathered that the man preferred to keep things low-key, something he got from his family evidently. He had always assumed August was an only child, but what if he did have siblings? Or other family that came over for Christmas? He was tempted to ask, but Maureen’s voice resounded before Drew had the chance. “I think that sounds really nice.” Drew looked over at his girlfriend and smiled, always finding it endearing how sweet she was to everyone. “We always go to church on Christmas Eve. The church we go to does a beautiful ceremony with the choirs singing. The whole week leading up to Christmas they do nice things, like the children’s choir does a little show, and they always have a live nativity scene and a reenactment. I actually played Mary about five years ago.” Now Drew grinned from ear to ear. He could definitely see Maureen playing that role. It was so fitting with her sweet, gentle nature. He was certain everyone else who knew her had felt the same way. She looked around the table and Drew noted the color in her cheeks and the bashful way she shrugged her shoulders. There was no need for her to be so shy about telling them the way she celebrated Christmas, but it was adorable nonetheless. “We usually just spend the holiday together. I still sleep at my…the Aberdeens’ on Christmas. My brother and his family usually come over first thing in the morning for breakfast and present opening.” She avoided saying her family for Maxi’s sake, but from the smile on Maxi’s face, she wasn’t upset by it at all. Really, Maureen was so sensitive to others’ feelings, even when she didn’t have to be. It made Drew want to kiss the pale, delicate hand rested on the table.

“But I’m not in Friday Harbor this year! So…what did we do as kids? What memories I have of it are vague. I want to reenact a McManus Christmas!” Drew grinned as Maxi giggled, amused by Maureen’s enthusiasm. Then she looked over at him and her hand found it’s way into his, her eyes warm and her smile playful as she gazed at him. Drew took her hand gently, letting his thumb run across the soft knuckled. “A McManus-Solomon Christmas. I should warn you, I get a little nuts with Christmas. It’s probably my favorite holiday ever.” He bit back a laugh and the ridiculousness of that warning. “That’s nothing new.”[/i] Maxi took the words right out of his mouth and he chuckled softly as he looked across the table at her. Then she went on to talk about how the McManus family celebrated their Christmases. She mentioned how they would all get together Christmas Eve morning to play and sing carols, putting together various holiday arts and crafts while they talked about all the things they wanted for Christmas. Then the McManus family would go to church and how Mr. Sean would bribe them with peppermint to ensure good behavior. He laughed as Maxi accused Maureen of being the main reason they had ended up dirtying their Christmas clothes a couple years and knew it was probably true. Maureen had been a very rambunctious child. When they got home, it was early bed time before the girls got up in the night and looked at the presents. They woke their parents early and would run themselves ragged until midmorning when they would crash again. Their grandparents would come over for movies and games before dinner and they’d continue after dinner. "Drew even came over with his mom a few years.”[/i] The man smiled, remembering the noise and warmth of the McManus house whenever he’d entered it early Christmas evening.

“Since my dad was out of the picture and we didn’t have any family to speak of, my mom and I usually spent Christmas alone together. When it was just the two of us, she’d watch me open my presents and then we’d spend the day watching Christmas movies and baking cookies. We’d have Cornish hens and other trimmings for a little feast Christmas night. Very quiet and simple, like August.” He smiled at the man across from him genially. “We didn’t start having dinner at the McManus house until I was already a teenager, but it was a nice change. You two would always be so anxious to show me all of your presents before dinner. It took a while to get you guys to actually settle down and eat. Then as soon as everyone was done eating and you’d help clean up the kitchen a bit, you’d force me to play games with you.” He grinned as Maxi narrowed her eyes playfully. “We did not force you! You wanted to play! At least…we didn’t give you the chance to refuse.”[/i] She giggled and Maureen and him laughed before he went on. “Anyway, it was a fun day. And you always loved it. You never wanted to go to bed on Christmas because you didn’t want it to be over. Meanwhile, this one would usually pass out on the couch all snuggled up with Miss Margot or Mr. Sean around eight o’ clock.” He nodded to Maxi who blushed a little and shrugged with a cute smile. “I tended to party myself out.”[/i]

The rest of the meal was filled with various funny Christmas stories, including one about Maxi yelling out excitedly as Drew walked through the door on Christmas, “I got princess panties!” This of course made Maxi blush and hide her face behind her hands as she and everyone else laughed. Then there was another about how Maureen tried to beat Drew up because she kept losing at Sorry. August appeared to be listening and he smiled at times, but he remained pretty silent through all the stories. Maxi slipped her hand into his under the table at one point, as if to bring him into the story exchange by that touch. The dinner was devoured and the pie was passed out and eaten as well until they were all full and content. “Great dinner, you two. And that wine was great too. Thanks for bringing it, August.” He knew the time was coming when he should try to get Maureen alone. Just thinking about the question he had to ask her made his stomach flip and he thought maybe after cleaning up the dishes he could convince her to step outside with him for a little bit. But what would his excuse be? The story telling had been a distraction, but now Drew couldn’t help but feel his nervousness bubbling in his gut.

[MAUREEN ABERDEEN]

“That’s nothing new.” Maureen blushed and smiled. She had probably always been a nut for Christmas. What kid wasn't? “When we were kids, Mom always insisted that we take a bath before church on Christmas Eve because, ‘Santa only comes to clean children.’ Of course, it was probably because we’d get so dirty and disheveled from playing with Gus Periwinkle, the Millers, and Drew all morning on Christmas Eve." Maureen always loved hearing stories from her childhood before the Aberdeen's. Sometimes it sparked a memory, other times it was just nice to hear about the life she had, like a nice story of someone else that made you smile because it was so endearing. When Maxi accused her of always being the trouble maker, her jaw dropped and she scoffed at her playfully, but deep down she knew it to be true. “Not that I’m accusing you of anything. It’s just the truth. You were the one that always dragged me with you to go running around in the churchyard before church started.” A strange feeling came over Maureen. She didn't necessarily remember running around the churchyard, but she could clearly recall the sensation of wanting to when she went to church on Christmas. She remembered looking fondly at the churchyard and the children who played in it, and squelching the urge to go romp about. By the time she'd met the Aberdeen's she had probably already outgrown such behavior, but she found it odd now how drawn to the yard she'd always been. Her heart remembered so much more than her mind ever would. It also explained her desire to eat candy canes before and after the Christmas church service.

The way Maxi spoke about their Christmases made her feel almost sad. She smiled and laughed with the stories, but a part of her wanted to run from the room crying. She knew how fortunate she had been to have such a loving family bring her in, but what she would give to even remember those times with her parents and sister. It wasn't fair. Maxi's face was glowing with happiness as she recalled all the things Maureen simply could not, Drew's face showing his amusement. August seemed indifferent but that really wasn't a surprise. “Anyway, Mom would make monkey bread for breakfast while we opened presents. Then we’d pass out about midmorning until Grandpa and Grandma McManus would show up in the early afternoon. Then we’d watch Christmas movies and play games until dinner and then again after dinner. It was always warm and loud and happy in the house. It really was the best time of the year. Drew even came over with his mom a few years.” Maureen smiled because the others were. It wasn't a time to be sad. They were together this year and that was important, and Maureen intended them to reenact Christmas perfectly. Hell, she might even set an alarm for the wee hours of the morning just in case she didn't actually wake up!

“Since my dad was out of the picture and we didn’t have any family to speak of, my mom and I usually spent Christmas alone together. When it was just the two of us, she’d watch me open my presents and then we’d spend the day watching Christmas movies and baking cookies. We’d have Cornish hens and other trimmings for a little feast Christmas night. Very quiet and simple, like August.” Drew's words made her even sadder. The accident she'd been involved in ruined holidays for Drew for the second time. Twice he lost his family. Her smile faltered a bit and it wasn't until Maxi and Drew began their banter that she cheered up a bit. “Anyway, it was a fun day. And you always loved it. You never wanted to go to bed on Christmas because you didn’t want it to be over. Meanwhile, this one would usually pass out on the couch all snuggled up with Miss Margot or Mr. Sean around eight o’ clock.” That had never changed about her. Even with the Aberdeen's she never wanted Christmas to be over. “I tended to party myself out.” Maxi teased and she smiled again, looking down at her plate. a soft laugh slipping from her lips.

The stories didn't end there. Drew let loose some pretty embarrassing ones, some starring her, others with Maxi who seemed to be the more embarrassing of the pair. Even August smiled along for some of the stories. She even chimed in with a few of her own which didn't seem as awkward now. They finished their supper and Maureen served up the pie with coffee and tea as they talked some more. By the end she was delightfully full and ready to really relax with her company. “Great dinner, you two. And that wine was great too. Thanks for bringing it, August.” "My pleasure." August said, tipping his glass before draining it. It really was a delicious meal. Maureen got up to clear the dishes and bring them to the table, Maxi following her lead. "I've asked Drew if I could spend the night with him." Maureen told her sister softly at the sink. "I know you hate leaving me here and I can tell August is sort of tired of sharing you. So.. if you wanted him to spend the night or whatever I won't be in the way." She saw August looking antsy and she smiled back at her sister. "I feel bad for him. He seems so out of place.. I wish he'd loosen up a bit in front of us. He does talk to you, right?" She asked nervously.