maevepeters

[maevepeters]

Diluite me, I tell them. Make me easier to love.

[maevepeters]

Maeve raised an eyebrow, an amused smile tugging at the corner of her lips as she took in his words. "Confidence boost, huh?" She chuckled, giving him a sidelong glance as they made their way through the crowd. "Well, I'll take that as a compliment. But let’s be honest—you’re doing just fine. You’ve got enough charm to pull off anything. Besides, if anyone knows how to fake it until they make it, it’s you."

"I think this is the first year that I'm alone for Christmas and I never realized just how much moms put into decorating and the Christmas spirit, you know?" She tightened her grip on his arm briefly before releasing it, her eyes narrowing slightly as she took in the scene around them. She could almost taste the tension in the air, the low hum of conversation, the clink of glasses, the balancing act that came with running a business and staying true to yourself. “And for the record, your lack of decorations? Definitely going to come up when your mom walks through that door. You should probably prepare yourself for a lecture about the importance of holiday ambiance.”

Hooking her arm tighter into his, she leaned in closer, her voice dropping conspiratorially. “But don’t worry, I’ll have your back. Just remind me to mention how busy you’ve been running the bar. Moms love that—makes you sound responsible.” As they reached the bar, she gave a knowing look as Henry made the order. Her eyes flicked to the drinks, then back to him. "That’s a solid win if I do say so myself" She took the drink with a raised eyebrow and a wink. With that, she took a sip, watching his reaction closely, before adding with a playful smirk: "So, what’s next? You planning on charming the crowd or hiding away for the rest of the night?"

He could've gone the ugly sweater route, could've itched for hours on end just to appease the holiday spirit lovers, but he'd made a choice with his business in mind. Act the part, he'd been advised, which was everything he wasn't. He could be charismatic, could talk his way through just about anything, but owning a business, a successful one at that, required more. "Thanks for the confidence boost."

And he'd meant it, truly. Ever since he'd stepped off the ice, his confidence took dips when least expected. "My parents are big on Christmas. My mom would have decorated after Thanksgiving if we could've found a tree that she liked." No, that part always took the longest. It had to be perfect from top to bottom, full and tall, but not too tall and not too full. "Tell my mother that when she comes into town." He gave a toothy grin, but he knew damn good and well that Charlotte Monroe would have something to say about his lack of decorations in both his home and the bar.

A raspy chuckle rolled off his tongue as he nodded, only taking a few steps when she'd hooked her arm into his. "So, you'll have my back if I make a total ass out of myself?" Henry navigated for the both of them, bobbing and weaving slowly amongst the small groups of mingling holiday lovers who seemed more than happy to be there. Occasionally, he'd offer a chin lift of acknowledgement and a smile. "Moment of truth," he hummed beneath his breath before closing the distance between them and the bar.

To his advantage, the server was a fan and without much effort, two glasses of the best holiday cocktails (each poured a little stronger than the usual) were offered to them. "I'd count that as a win, yeah?"

[maevepeters]

Maeve’s gaze lingered on him for a moment, her smile softening into something equal parts amused and understanding. “Well, you’re pulling off the no tie look just fine,” she said with a teasing lilt, her eyes twinkling. “Honestly, you might’ve set a trend tonight—relaxed but just formal enough to keep people guessing.” She gave a little shrug, as if to say she’d allow it. His comment about the holidays struck a chord, though, and Maeve tilted her head slightly. “It is a lot, isn’t it? All the forced cheer, the lights, the expectations. Makes you feel like you’ve got to put on a show even if you’re not in the mood.” Her smile curved a little wryer. “But hey, at least you didn’t drown your place in tinsel. I’d call that restraint.”

When he lifted his arm, Maeve arched a brow, her grin spreading into something more playful—something that said she wasn’t one to back down either. “Oh, is that right? Practice, huh?” She slipped her arm through his with ease, her expression nothing short of mischievous. “Well, lucky for you, I’m an excellent wing woman and a decent judge of party spreads. Between the two of us, I think we’ve got this covered.” She let him lead the way, leaning in just slightly as if to share a secret. “And don’t worry—I’ll only step in if you really drop the ball. I’ve got high hopes, though. I think you might surprise me.” Her voice carried that same challenge back to him, warm and lighthearted, but her smile lingered—steady and genuine. “Let’s go see what this place has to offer. Worst case, we make our own fun.”

He'd never learned the art of tying a tie, despite how many people had made the attempt to teach him. The only person who'd ever even came close to getting through to him had been his ex-wife and even then, he'd always pretended to screw it up just to see her smiling up at him while she worked on it. "I figured I'd be alright if I went without it." Dressing up and acting formal had never been much of a gig he'd liked either. His career had required far too many events, but most of them were packed full of men who felt the same way. "It's a lot, that's for sure." The holidays weren't his favorite, but he'd made minor adjustments to the bar to match the spirit others seemed to crave. By comparison though, he hadn't done much at all.

The male shifted slightly, his grin mirroring that of the one the blonde wore. Was he up for a challenge of charm? Always. "I never back down from a challenge and besides, I could use the practice," he mused as he lifted an arm for her to take if she wanted. Worst case scenario? He fell short and she stepped in. As long as they got the good stuff, a win was a win.

[maevepeters]

Maeve turned toward Addison, her gaze briefly flicking over the festive décor before landing back on her. “They really did pull out all the stops, huh?” she replied, her voice light but sincere, a small smile settling on her lips. “It’s the kind of place that makes you feel like you should be on your best behavior—or at least trying to act like you belong.” Her eyes twinkled with a bit of mischief as she added, “But hey, a Whiskey Sour in hand makes it easier, I imagine.” Maeve gave Addison’s drink a pointed nod, approval written all over her face. “Solid choice.” As Addison admitted she was actually enjoying herself, Maeve raised a brow, impressed. “You know, that’s rare—someone admitting they’re into the holiday scene without grumbling about it first. Glad to hear you’re making the most of it.” She leaned in slightly, her voice dipping into an easy, conspiratorial tone. “Me? I’m holding my own. Trying to resist the urge to count down the minutes until I can sneak off with a plate of cookies like some kind of holiday bandit.” At the mention of food, Maeve perked up, an amused smirk tugging at her lips. “You’re ahead of me there. I’ve been scouting, though—got my eye on those little puff pastry things. They look fancy enough to justify me eating three of them.” She tilted her head, studying Addison with playful curiosity. “What about you? Anything worth recommending, or are we bracing for the usual party food disappointment?"

Addison hasn't been inside The Lakeshore Country Club in what felt like forever. She and her husband joined as soon as they moved to Woodisde. It was that time of year when it would be all decked out for the holidays and the events would be happening. Addison was dressed in black leather pants, a hot pink top with her leather jacket on her. Her hair waved and as the brunette sipped on her Whiskey Sour, Addison turned to the young women and smiled softly " It is. They did a really good job with it." Addison said honestly and then continued with "I am actually, I don't normally like these kind of things but it's nice this time. How about you?" She pushed her hair out of her face and took a breath "Have you tried any food yet?"

[maevepeters]

Maeve smirked, an amused glint sparking in her eyes as she gave him a once-over. “Prepared and broody. You really do come with the full survival kit, huh?” She teased, though there was an edge of approval in her tone. “I can’t blame you. Navigating these things without a little strategy is like walking into a snowstorm without a coat.” At the mention of the nightmare scenario—neighbors banding together and making unannounced visits—Maeve pulled a face, her lips quirking with mock horror. “That sounds like a plot straight out of a holiday horror flick. ‘They’re caroling… and they know where you live.’” She shivered dramatically, though her laugh was soft, genuine. “Let’s hope it doesn’t come to that. I think we’d both be heading for the hills.”

Her grin widened at the jab about a solo. “You’re safe—for now,” Maeve said, holding up her hands in mock surrender. “Even I have my limits. Though, if you keep up with that broody side-eye, I might just break into a ballad to see if I can crack you.” She paused, narrowing her eyes playfully at him. “Fair warning, I’m not above a public scene.” Leaning back just a little, she tilted her head, studying him with a mix of curiosity and amusement. “But hey, if the broody thing’s working for you, don’t mess with success. Who needs charm when you’ve got the ‘man of mystery’ vibe down to a science?” She offered him a small, teasing smile as she raised her glass in his direction. “Here’s to surviving the chaos—broody side-eyes, finger foods, and all. Looks like we’ve both got our methods.”

He shrugged. "It never hurts to come prepared." Judging by the finger foods - everything seemed scarce. Not that he expected anything differently or was hungry in a sense. Something to take the edge off in these kinds of scenarios was always something Remington planned for. "You got that right. I just hope they don't band together after this and start going around to all our houses. That just seems like something out of a nightmare." Remington wouldn't be so calm either. "I have tried to just drown everything out. Seems like the only way to get through it. But to each their own I guess." He paused and rose a brow. "You're not going to start your own solo right -cause I would certainly appreciate a heads up." His tone was easy. He didn't expect her to. "I don't know about poker face. Though the whole broody thing and side eyes seems to have scared off some so I can't complain too much."

[maevepeters]

Maeve offered Emine a warm, knowing smile, her gaze soft with understanding. “It’s harder than anyone ever prepares you for, isn’t it?” she said gently, the quiet weight of experience in her voice. “You’re carrying so much, and yet you’re still standing here, still showing up for her. That’s no small thing, Emine.”She took a step closer, as if to reinforce the words with her presence. “And trust me, you’re doing more than good—you’re giving her exactly what she needs. Even if she doesn’t say it now, or even realize it yet, she’ll look back one day and see you as her anchor.” Maeve’s lips quirked into a small smile, the kind that held both pride and empathy. “I’d bet on it.” As Emine glanced back toward her sister, Maeve chuckled softly, her voice lightening just a touch. “Ah, boy talk. Now that’s a milestone. Sugar’s definitely the right call.” She raised her brows with a teasing glint in her eye. “A little sweetness goes a long way when you’re bracing for those conversations.” She tilted her head toward the food table or wherever the promise of dessert awaited. “C’mon. Let’s go get you something with enough sugar to soften the edges of this day. You’ve earned it. And who knows? Maybe you’ll find that boy story’s not as bad as you think.” Maeve grinned as she nudged Emine gently. “Or maybe it’ll require an extra helping of cake. Either way, I’ve got your back.”

Emine looked over at Maeve with a thankful look. She hadn't realized how much she needed someone to tell her that she was on the right path and doing good by her younger sister. "Thanks— it's a lot harder than I would have ever imagined." Not only navigating the grief that came with such responsibility but she hadn't imagined being someone's caregiver to be such hard work. "I commend you for everything. I had no clue." When she peered back at the festivities, she gave her sister one last look and figured that it may be good for her to step back a bit and let her have fun with her friends. "Yeah, I think I can do that. It sounds delicious. I had a feeling she was trying to tell me something about a boy today so a bit of sugar could do me well."

[maevepeters]

Maeve let out a soft laugh at the wink, shaking her head as if to say I deserved that one. “What can I say? I’ve got a talent that no one asked for.” Her smile was quick and easy, the kind that lit up her face despite the lingering fatigue in her eyes. As the other woman poured the contents into her mug, Maeve raised her brows, watching the bottle disappear into her purse like some covert operation. “Now that’s a pro move,” she said approvingly, lifting her cup to meet her toast. “Warm up the throat and the soul—holiday survival essentials.” She took a sip, letting the creamy warmth settle before her gaze softened a little. “Better than you thought, huh? Well, that’s something, even if the bar was set low.” Maeve tilted her head, studying the other woman briefly before offering, “For what it’s worth, this is my first holiday in this town. Well, I mean I was here for Thanksgiving but I count this as my first official holiday. It's not as bad here as I had expected it to be. And not just this event but the town. It feels weird to say that I feel more at home here than I have felt anywhere for a long time."

Madelyn flashed the younger woman a wink. "I didn't know you could go that high." In the worse way possible, and she feared that her ears were permanently affected because of it. "Irish cream is a nice start, enough to warm up the throat a little bit. It should make it easier for you to drink this." Madelyn poured some of the contents in her cup before she stashed the bottle in her purse. When it was securely out of sight, she rose her glass in agreement. "A good time may be a bit of a stretch." No one liked to be wandering a new town on their own during the holiday season, but she was managing. "I'm doing better than I thought I would so that's a plus."

[maevepeters]

Maeve tilted her head slightly, a wry smile tugging at her lips as Logan spoke. “Self-improvement by tolerating Mariah Carey? I’d say that’s worthy of a little celebration,” she teased, her voice warm and light. “Though I’ll admit, the holidays do have a way of sneaking up on you like that. One minute you’re rolling your eyes at the music, and the next you’re humming along when you think no one’s listening.” Her gaze followed his subtle gestures—the swirling glass, the hand at his chest—and while she didn’t call it out, she softened in response, choosing her words carefully. “Ah, so you’re a first-timer and a gauntlet dodger. Bold move coming out tonight.” There was no mockery in her tone, only a quiet understanding like she knew what it meant to feel out of place in a room full of people. “I’m glad you decided to skip the corner, though. Makes my job of finding the interesting ones a little easier.”

She took a slow sip of her drink, a small spark of recognition lighting up her expression as he said her name. “Maeve, yeah.” She tilted her glass toward him in an easy salute. “You’ve got a good memory, Logan. Or did someone prep you for the who’s who of tonight’s crowd?” Her smile lingered as she leaned a bit closer, dropping her voice just slightly as if sharing a secret. “For what it’s worth, you’re pulling off the ‘not creepy’ part just fine. Plus, you’ve already survived the Mariah Carey gauntlet, so I’d say you’re off to a strong start.” Her gaze held his for a moment before she added, a little more sincerely, “And hey, if you get the urge to make a break for the door, give me a heads-up. I might just join you.”

Logan looked around again she she spoke, a small smile appeared on his lips as he thought of it over before looking at her with a nod. "You know, I don't think I could have said it better myself." He looked down at the food for a moment putting a couple things on a plate before looking back at Maeve. "I think it's all of the above. There's something different this year, in a good way. I didn't audibly groan hearing Mariah Carey this year, which I think I can label as self improvement, maybe?" He cleared his throat as she asked if it was his first time or just avoiding small talk, he swirled his glass for a second, his free hand landing back under his sternum where it went when he felt his anxiety creep up, before looking up, wondering how honest he should actually be in this moment. "Both, truth be told. First time coming to an event and also avoiding the, what did you call it? Talk gauntlet. But then I thought I should at least try and not seem like the quiet creepy guy in the corner." He couldn't help but smile as she continued, something about the way she spoke or maybe even her smile itself seemed contagious in a way. "That's the thought I'm trying to hang onto every time I think about sneaking out the door." He nodded as she confirmed who he was. "I believe we have. Maeve, if I'm not mistaken?"

[maevepeters]

Maeve listened, her soft gaze never wavering as Kira spoke. There was something unspoken in the air—something heavier than the twinkling lights or the festive music surrounding them. It was in the way Kira’s smile faltered just slightly at the edges, in how her words danced between humor and heartache.“Oh, I’m sure someone will make a scene before the night’s over," Maeve teased, a faint smirk tugging at her lips. "The holidays do bring out the best and the worst in people… especially when questionable sweaters and too much eggnog are involved.” But as Kira’s tone shifted, Maeve did too. Subtle. Softer. She tilted her head just slightly, a quiet understanding settling over her features. “It is tough,” she admitted, no judgment in her voice. “All those picture-perfect moments—it’s like they’re lit up in neon this time of year, just to remind us what we don’t have.” There was no pity in Maeve’s tone, just the honesty of someone who knew that ache far too well.

Her lips quirked into something gentler, a faint, reassuring smile. “But don’t let the staged scenes fool you. Half of those people are fighting over whose turn it is to take the trash out, or burning the turkey.” Her voice dipped a little, almost conspiratorial. “And you? You’re not the only one who’s had a rough go of it lately, I promise you that.” The question about her plans earned a small chuckle, low and self-deprecating. “Christmas? New Year’s?” Maeve ran a hand through her hair, her shoulders lifting in a loose shrug. “Honestly, my plans are mostly kid-centered. I don't have any family here so it's just me and my little one this year around.” Her expression softened as she added, “She keeps me grounded, though. Reminds me that the holidays don’t have to be perfect to mean something. I mean she's still too young to know it but I want her to always know that.” She glanced at Kira, brows raised just slightly as if testing the waters before offering, “What about you? If you don’t have plans, maybe we could, I don’t know… make some of our own? A little less ‘Hallmark movie,’ a little more us.” Maeve’s smile grew, teasing but sincere. “I’ll even let you pick the ugly sweaters.”

There was something soothing about Maeve's presence and Kira immediately felt warmed just by being closer to the blonde. The smile on her lips grew a little more as her dark eyes bounced from Maeve to the beautifully decorated tree to the reflection of the colored lights on the white snow underfoot. "Well, now that you put it that way," she chuckled softly, "I wonder if any drama will break out here." Whether it be bickering families or a slightly inebriated attendee accidentally bumping into another that'd had one too many spiked egg nogs. Her gaze pulled away from the mayor in the distance and fixed on her company. "Yeah, most likely from that guy wearing the sweater with the reindeer pooping... I think there was one of Mr and Mrs Claus being a little too into the holiday spirit." She wet her lips and gently cleared her throat, a if you catch my drift action. "This city could end up with some," fake light cough, "colorful decorations." Even if she tried her best to keep a smile on her face and the conversations directed towards happier topics, Kira supposed she couldn't hide her sadness from someone as good as Maeve. The show of compassion and interest touched her a bit. "It's just tough, you know, seeing all of the happy families and loving couples." Her breakup with Leti was embarrassingly public. That video of her ex girlfriend in a kiss with the woman she didn't have to worry about had gone around the world multiple times. "Are you, uhh..." Her hands rubbed at the back of her neck a little, "do you have plans for Christmas and New Years and of all that?"

[maevepeters]

Maeve tilted her head slightly, a soft laugh escaping her lips as her gaze lingered on Genesis. "Failing me? Never," she murmured, her voice low and teasing. "But tonight feels different, doesn’t it? Something in the air… or maybe it’s just you." She let the compliment hang there for a moment, her lips quirking into a small, almost shy smile before she added, "You’ve got a way of making the crowd disappear, you know that?" Her eyes briefly flicked around the bustling scene before returning to Genesis. At the mention of her daughter, Maeve’s expression softened, her usual guarded demeanor melting away. "She’s tough given the way that she was brought into this world but you’re right—it’s the world that tries to chip away at that. That’s why I hold on so tight sometimes. Maybe too tight." There was a flicker of vulnerability in her tone, one that she quickly masked with a sip of her drink. The offer of getting her home safe drew a laugh, warm and genuine. "You’re sweet, but don’t let me be your excuse to babysit. Besides, you’re the one who deserves a night off from being everyone’s rock." Her eyes sparkled with mischief as she added, "But if you’re serious about those ugly sweaters, we might need to talk." As Genesis leaned in closer, Maeve didn’t pull away. Instead, she let the moment linger, her gaze steady and searching. "Successful mingling?" she repeated, a wry smile tugging at her lips. "Let’s just say no one’s caught my eye quite yet but I'm not really looking, you know?" What she wanted to say was that she was too much baggage that another person didn't need. She had her daughter and her friends here and that was more than enough - or that's what she likes to tell herself those lonely nights.

"Tonight?" Hand to chest, almost stunned at what she was hearing. "You mean I've been failing you any other time?" When Maeve leaned in so did Genesis but she took the opportunity to admire her friend's features a little more up close. She could see the warmth in her gaze even if there was a tiredness around her eyes. One on one Genesis could tune out the buzz and bustle of the crowd enjoying the festivities around them. "Well, you're bound to catch eyes tonight," she quickly commented and continued the compliment. It was also nice to see the blonde out of their uniform. "That's the thing about kids... they're so resilient. I feel like we lose some of that as we age, or that the world knocks some of it away." Genuinely, she hoped that the little girl wouldn't lose her wild or be tamed. Life sadly had it's ways of doing that, one heartache after another, but at least Maeve's daughter had a mother that genuinely loved and cared to support her. Oh, the holidays were definitely bringing up her hallow past. "I can make sure you get home safe, honey, if you wanna let loose a bit and have a drink or two. You deserve to enjoy some adult time, some you time." Smiling, Genesis playfully preened under the compliments. "Nah, but those ugly sweaters are starting to look a bit attractive to me." She wasn't even sure if she was kidding and she wagged her brow as she crept closer to Maeve. "Have you had any... successful mingling?"

[maevepeters]

Maeve chuckled, her shoulders shaking slightly as she leaned in closer, the warmth of shared misery evident in her grin. "Oh, you’d definitely be on the naughty list," she teased, her voice low and conspiratorial. "But honestly? I’d say you’re doing the world a favor. That rendition of Jingle Bells was basically an auditory crime scene." Her gaze flicked to the tilted bottle, amusement sparking in her eyes. "You’re bold, I’ll give you that," she said with a smirk, holding up her own nearly empty mug. "And here I thought I was clever for sneaking in Irish cream. But yeah, I’ll take some—misery loves company, right?" She extended her mug with a mock-serious expression. "Here’s to surviving this holiday horror show, one questionable decision at a time. Besides that, are you having a good time?"

Availability — open to everyone

Location — jingle and mingle

She had to remember to buy a flask after this. The bottle of water that held vodka had went undetected by many but she'd gotten odd looks when she poured it into her already spiked drink. A few had asked to share and she'd pretended not to hear them before rushing off, fearing that even what she brought wouldn't be enough to drown out the sound of some of the carollers who were allowed to sing. "Would I be on the naughty list if I hit whomever told that grey haired woman it was okay for her to sing? She may become my new paralysis demon or visit me in my nightmares. I just know that voice will haunt me for a long time." Sharing her recent trauma brought out some of her generosity, tilting the half empty bottle. "Want some?"

[maevepeters]

Maeve, standing nearby and pretending not to eavesdrop, couldn’t help but smirk as she caught Remington’s muttered complaint. "Bold move," she said lightly, her eyes flicking to the flask as he poured. "But I have to admit, you might be onto something. A little liquid courage is probably the only way to survive that level of… enthusiasm." She stepped a little closer, her own mug cradled in her hands, steam curling up from the rim. "Though, to be fair, they’re not all bad. There was that one group earlier—remember them? The ones who sang Silent Night? Okay, maybe that was just less painful because it was quieter," she teased with a wry grin. Maeve’s gaze lingered on him for a moment before softening. "You don’t strike me as the caroling type," she added, tilting her head slightly. "Though I bet you’ve got a killer poker face when they make eye contact or do you not try and hide it?."

location: lakeshore country club (holiday mingle)

who: anyone

Remington wasn't much of a decorator but he had to give credit to whoever set these kinds of things up. It must have taken a lot of planning and setting up. A lot of hours for sure. There was respect there. However- there was no respect for people in masses who should not be allowed to sing, caroling their hearts out. Were his ears bleeding? On the verge. "I knew I should have brought more if this keeps up." He more so mumbled to himself as a group of carolers had just finished their horrid rendition of the Jingle Bells song. After the words though were spoken, Remington grabbed the flask out of his coat pocket and poured the contents of the Irish Whiskey into the mug of coffee he currently was sporting.

[maevepeters]

Maeve turned her head at Kira’s question, catching the glint of that shy, dimpled grin. It was contagious, drawing her own smile out with ease. She shifted her weight, the heels of her boots crunching faintly in the snow beneath the festive lights. "Free spiked drinks?" she echoed, a playful lilt in her voice. "Oh, absolutely. It’s chaos in a cup, and I think that’s exactly the energy these things thrive on." Her gaze flicked to the crowd, taking in the mix of awkward laughter, exuberant sweater displays, and a few overzealous dancers near the speakers. "Though," she added with a soft chuckle, "it might be an even better idea to station someone near the crafts table. Kids and slightly tipsy parents? That’s a recipe for some very ‘creative’ holiday ornaments." She glanced back at Kira, her expression softening as she caught a flicker of something more in her eyes. "What about you? You look like you’ve got a lot more on your mind than ugly sweaters and spiked cider." Her tone was kind, and open—an invitation to share if Kira wanted to.

❛ OPEN & KIRA. — HOLIDAY MINGLE AT LAKESHORE COUNTRY CLUB.

With the glistening white blanket of snow somehow the decorations were even more beautiful. Christmastime wasn't a personal holiday for Kira, and even if it was her estrangement with her family would put a damper on the years long tension. With recent news there was an unsettling in her stomach as she made her way around. Part of her wanted to jump in on the kids crafts but instead she people watched and chuckled at the ugly sweaters. "Do you think it was a good idea to offer free spiked drinks?" Kira's dimpled, shy grin displayed her amusement as she found someone else standing back a bit and admiring the crowd.

[maevepeters]

Maeve smiled, the kind of smile that started in her eyes and softened everything else. "You’re right—it’s easy to forget how much work goes into making something look so effortless. All these tiny, invisible hands behind the scenes, probably running themselves ragged to keep the illusion intact." She glanced around at the shimmering lights and garlands, her fingers lightly tracing the stem of her glass. "Makes me appreciate it even more, though. Knowing someone cared enough to create this little pocket of magic."

She took a slow sip of her own drink, the warmth of the wine blooming faintly on her cheeks as she looked back at Zuri. "Rare escapes? Oh, definitely rare," Maeve admitted with a soft laugh. "Most of the time, it’s work, errands, family… you know, the usual grind. Nights like these? They’re… a reminder. That there’s still room for a little sparkle, even when life feels so heavy."

Her gaze lingered on Zuri, catching the genuine interest in her expression. "What about you? Do you make time for escapes like this often, or is tonight one of those ‘just breathe and see where it takes me’ kind of evenings?"

Zuri adjusted the strap of her bag and gave a polite smile, her gaze briefly scanning the ornate decorations before landing back on the blonde. “It’s beautiful, for sure,” she replied, the one of her voice tainted with a mix of friendly and curious. Although I can’t help but wonder how much effort went into creating all this... and how many hands behind the scenes made it happen.”

She took a small sip of her prosecco and winced a little as the bubbles slipped down her throat. “But I’m glad you’re enjoying it. Nights like these can feel... rare, right? A moment to breathe, to be something more than all the hats we wear every day.” Her expression softened as she gestured toward Maeve’s drink. “And you? Do you do this often, or is tonight one of those rare escapes?”

It wasn’t just small talk. Zuri’s tone carried a genuine interest, the kind that made it clear she wasn’t just passing the time. Even in moments like these, she preferred connection over pretense.

[maevepeters]

Maeve watched him with a knowing grin, her eyes flicking briefly to the abandoned tie that she had seen when he first walked in. "You didn’t last long, did you?" she teased gently, her tone laced with warmth. "But I get it—ties and holiday parties don’t always mix, especially when everything feels a little… too much." She shifted her weight slightly, the glimmer of the lights reflecting in her gaze as she followed his line of sight. "They really have outdone themselves," she agreed, her voice softening. "It’s almost enough to distract you from the lack of a proper drink situation." Her lips curved into a playful smile as she leaned in just a fraction, her voice dropping conspiratorially. "Lucky for you, it’s an open bar. Though rumor has it the ‘good stuff’ is behind the counter, if you know how to ask nicely." She arched a brow at him, a challenge in her expression. "Think you’re up to it, or should I step in and show you how it’s done?"

The retired hockey player had made it an entire ten minutes before he'd tugged off the poorly secured tie from around his neck and shoved it into his jacket pocket before it was shuffled off to a coat rack somewhere out of sight. For a man looking to expand his business, events like this were important, even if all things holidays made his chest ache. "They've out done themselves," he mused, gaze fixated on lights that burned a tad too bright and reminded him of all the early mornings he'd shielded his eyes from the illuminated tree while he and his sister shuffled through gifts. "Sure. I'd be enjoying myself a bit more if I knew where they kept the good stuff." A small smile showed at the corner of his mouth, his tone teasing, though he'd meant every word. "Is this one of those things where I have to try and grab a glass off a tray or are we talking open bar?"

[maevepeters]

Maeve glanced over at Logan, her smile soft and welcoming as she tucked a stray strand of hair behind her ear. "It’s a bit of magic, isn’t it?" she said, her voice warm but casual. "I don’t know if it’s the lights, the music, or just the fact that everyone looks a little shinier this time of year." Her gaze flickered to his whiskey glass and then back to him, amusement playing in her tone. "Though I see you’ve been playing it cool in the corner. First-timer here, or are you just avoiding the small talk gauntlet?" She reached for a nearby canape herself, popping it onto a plate as she added, "Me? I’m enjoying it, though these things always have a way of feeling both festive and overwhelming at the same time. But hey, good food and decent company always help." Her smile widened, a spark of curiosity in her eyes. "Logan, right? I think we’ve seen each other around a time or two."

Logan had been at the country club for about half an hour. He had kept mostly to himself and was still nursing the whiskey he grabbed when he first arrived, suddenly he heard his stomach rumble a little. He glanced over at the food table, there were a few people near it which stopped him for a moment but his hunger won out in the end so he approached it, kind of slowly. As he reached out for some canapes he heard the woman beside him speak. He looked around, wondering if she was addressing someone else but it quickly became evident that she was talking to him. "It really is. Kind of took my breath away when I first walked in." At her second question he nodded, "surprisingly so. How about you?"

[maevepeters]

Maeve’s lips curved into a soft smile, a flush of warmth creeping into her cheeks at Gen's compliment. "Well, aren't you just the charmer tonight," she teased, eyes glinting with playful affection. "Thank you, though. Figured I'd step it up a bit since I feel like I've practically lived in sweats my entire pregnancy." She leaned in slightly, her voice dipping into something more conspiratorial. "As for the little one, she's doing great—thankfully. Still a whirlwind of hormones and sass, but I think we’re figuring each other out. Slowly. I think she’s handling it all better than me most days."Maeve glanced at the bustling crowd, the faint hum of holiday music and chatter filling the space. "And me? Well, it’s… different. I love seeing everyone, but being the DD keeps it all a little too clear-headed." She smirked and tilted her head at Gen. "Though I’d say it’s worth it, especially if it means I get to catch up with the most gorgeous girl in the room. You here with anyone?"

With her mid-thirties beginning to encroach on her Genesis' approach to the Holiday Mingle was a bit different than it had been in past years. Usually free food and free spiked drinks with the option to be social would have her head buzzing for multiple reasons. In some ways it was sad, that as she got older time tamed her a bit, and in others... well, it was beginning to feel as though she were on the right path. Finally. The cutest blonde ever steered Gen away from making a gentleman uncomfortable next to his wife after she'd rescued him from a compromising position a while back. "Always," she smiled just before she saddled up beside Maeve. That wasn't true, she wasn't the most festive, but over the years it was growing on her. "Aren't you looking pretty tonight," she always did but Gen wanted Maeve to know she'd noticed the effort, "how's the little one? Better yet... are you enjoying your grownup night out?"