Chapter 18 - Winter Festivities and True Warmth
December arrived, covering New England in pristine white snow. Unlike previous years—when we endured stifling, performative holiday gatherings at my parents' house where Mia was treated like a ghost—this winter belonged entirely to us.
We decorated our home with glowing string lights along the window frames and set up a gorgeous pine tree in the living room. Mia personally prepared handmade gifts for her university friends and us.
On Christmas Eve, we gathered around the warm fireplace. There was no forced pretense or cruel favoritism, only genuine laughter and deep connection. Mia looked around the glowing room before squeezing Marcus’s and my hands tightly.
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"Thank you both for always protecting me, and thank you for creating a true home," she whispered, her eyes shining with absolute happiness.
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