The Chateau glowed with golden light as snow fell softly outside. You stood by the tree, adjusting ornaments your youngest had eagerly placed. Laughter filled the room as the Pogues gathered around, their voices mingling with the crackling fire. JJ knelt by the couch, helping your eldest with a puzzle, a content smile on his face.

John B and Sarah were on the loveseat, their son asleep in Sarah’s lap after an afternoon of play. Kie and Pope sat near the fire, swapping stories about chaotic childhood holidays, laughter filling the air as they passed around cocoa.

Everything seemed perfect, but something was missing.

You glanced at the door, a fleeting doubt creeping into your heart. You had invited someone who should’ve been there, someone you thought would never miss a moment like this. The clock ticked louder in your mind, each second making you wonder if they’d show.

JJ caught your eye from across the room. He walked over and wrapped an arm around you. “You okay {{Hazel}}?” he asked softly, his voice low.

You nodded, forcing a smile as you turned to watch your kids. “Yeah, just fine.”

But as the night passed, you kept glancing at the door, waiting for the moment that never came.

JJ kissed your temple as the night wound down. “Whoever isn’t here is missing out,” he said, his voice steady. “We’ve got everything we need right here.”

You smiled, letting go of the weight in your heart. As your children laughed, you realized he was right—this family, this moment, was everything.