One chilly morning, as the early light crept through the curtains, Juniper made her way to Marshmallow’s bedroom. It was an ordinary routine—a check-in on her grandmother, a habit she had formed since the family had grown closer to the aging matriarch. But as she stepped into the room, a sharp sense of wrongness struck her.

Marshmallow was lying on the floor, unnaturally still. Juniper rushed to her side, calling her name, but the moment her hands touched the cold skin of her grandmother’s arm, she knew. The world seemed to collapse around her as reality sunk in. Her grandmother, the woman who had been so much a part of their daily lives, was gone.

The house soon filled with grief. The news of Marshmallow’s passing devastated the family, each member coping in their own way. For Peacock, the loss was like losing a part of herself. She had often been irritated by her mother’s old habits and strong opinions, but now those moments seemed so trivial. The woman who had raised her, who had helped guide her family through thick and thin, was no longer there, leaving a void that felt impossible to fill.

Juniper and Bluebell had experienced death before when their grandfather Blizzard passed away, but this was different. Marshmallow had been such an integral part of their everyday lives, always there, always loving. The twins struggled with the weight of the grief, the pain of losing someone who had been so close to them. For the first time, they truly understood what it meant to lose family.

As the months passed, life inevitably moved forward. The twins grew into teenagers, their personalities beginning to diverge in ways no one had quite expected. Bluebell, like her late grandmother, became an overachiever, excelling in both her studies and athletics. She threw herself into the discipline of her schoolwork, joining the football team and finding comfort in the structure that sports and academics provided. Her determination reminded everyone of Marshmallow’s own drive to master anything she attempted.

Juniper, on the other hand, took a different path. The pain of losing her grandmother, coupled with the intensity of the changes happening around her, sparked a rebellious streak. She became known for her pranks and jokes, her carefree spirit sometimes veering into troublemaking. She found joy in defying expectations, always with a mischievous grin on her face. While Bluebell sought control, Juniper sought freedom.

As Juniper embraced her rebellious side, sneaking in harmless pranks and challenging authority at school, Peacock and Surf couldn’t help but exchange knowing glances. It was as though a spark of Marshmallow’s wild youth had found its way into their daughter. Her mischievous grin, the way she defied rules with a twinkle in her eye—it all reminded them of the tales Marshmallow had told about her younger days, when she, too, had lived life on her own terms.

Peacock often recalled the stories her mother had shared, how Marshmallow had been a free spirit, unafraid to bend the rules and follow her own path, even when it led to trouble. Watching Juniper now, with her carefree attitude and thirst for excitement, felt like watching history repeat itself. Surf, too, saw shades of his mother in Juniper, and while he didn’t always approve of her antics, there was a part of him that admired her fierce independence.

It was bittersweet for Peacock to see this side of Juniper—on the one hand, it brought back memories of her mother, but on the other, it served as a reminder of how quickly time was passing. Juniper was growing up, following in her grandmother’s footsteps in ways Peacock never anticipated. It was both comforting and unsettling, as if Marshmallow’s legacy lived on, not just in memory, but through the rebellious spirit that thrived in her granddaughter.

Surf, ever the dreamer and scientist, dealt with his grief in the only way he knew how—by burying himself even deeper into his work. His obsession with space and the possibility of alien life consumed him. The project that had once been a part of his life became his entire focus. He spent hours in his lab, tinkering with the space rocket he’d been building for years and adjusting the satellite dish he believed would reconnect him with the extraterrestrial beings that had once abducted him.

He spoke to anyone who would listen about his abduction, about the endless possibilities that space held. At home, in the lab, he was always talking about it—how the aliens had shown him a world beyond human understanding, how he knew they would invite him back one day. His colleagues at work were used to his eccentricities, but now even they saw a change in him. Space wasn’t just a passion anymore—it was an obsession.

And then, one evening, it happened. Surf was working late when the familiar light appeared again. He rushed outside, heart racing, as a beam of light descended from the sky. Without hesitation, he stepped into the light and felt himself lifted once more into the alien ship. His return was filled with stories—wild, incredible tales of what he had seen and learned. He couldn’t stop talking about it. His world was now entirely focused on the stars, on the universe beyond Earth. Space had become everything to him, more than just a dream. It was his reality.

Meanwhile, Peacock grieved her mother quietly. The years she had spent being annoyed by Marshmallow’s overbearing ways now seemed so small, so insignificant in comparison to the loss she felt. Her mother had cared for them all, and without her, the house felt emptier. Peacock poured herself into her children and her work, determined to honor her mother by doing her best at both. She rose through the ranks at the police station, her job giving her a sense of purpose amidst the sorrow that still lingered in her heart.

Azure, the youngest of the family, also felt the weight of his grandmother’s absence. He had been so close to her, spending his days by her side as she cared for him. As he aged into a child and started school, he became a creative soul with a big heart, but there was a loneliness that followed him. He missed his grandmother’s presence deeply, feeling the void she had left behind in his young life. School brought new distractions, new friends, but no one quite filled the space that Marshmallow had occupied in his heart.

Azure missed his grandmother terribly—her laughter, her stories, and the way she always had time for him, no matter what. It was hard for him to put into words, but Peacock could see it in his eyes, the way he would stare at the empty chair by the window where Marshmallow used to sit. He had grown quieter since she was gone, often retreating into his own world, even in the middle of play.

One evening, as the rain softly pattered against the windows, Azure climbed onto the couch beside Peacock, clutching his favorite blanket. Without a word, she wrapped her arms around him, pulling him close. He snuggled into her warmth, laying his head on her chest, and for a long moment, they just sat in silence, listening to the rhythm of each other’s breathing.

“I miss her,” Azure finally whispered, his voice trembling slightly.

Peacock pressed a kiss to the top of his head, her heart aching for him. “I know, baby. I miss her too.” She stroked his hair gently, her hand moving in slow, soothing circles on his back. “It’s okay to be sad. She loved you so much, and you’ll always carry a part of her with you.”

Azure sniffled, and Peacock could feel his small body shaking as he held back tears. “I don’t like it when people leave,” he murmured, his voice muffled against her shirt.

“I don’t either,” Peacock replied softly, tightening her hold on him. “But you’re not alone, sweetheart,” she whispered. “We’ll get through this together, and I’ll always be here for you. Whenever you miss her, you come to me, okay?”

Azure nodded against her chest, finally letting out a deep sigh. “Okay, Mom.”

Mornings in the house always started with a quiet buzz of activity: the soft clinking of dishes as Marshmallow prepared breakfast, the rustle of the twins’ feet on the stairs as they raced to the kitchen, and the faint hum of Surf tinkering away with his latest inventions in the garage.

Peacock cherished these early moments before the rush of the day took over, enjoying the brief stillness as she got ready for another shift at the police station. Her career had been steadily advancing, with her sharp instincts and dedication earning her recognition among her peers. Yet, despite her successes, a familiar ache still lingered. She missed Oxford. She missed the life they might have had. Though she knew she’d made the right decision in ending things, moving on was easier said than done.

As Peacock sipped her morning coffee, Marshmallow settled Azure into his highchair, his chubby hands reaching eagerly for the breakfast laid out before him. Marshmallow beamed at her youngest grandchild, feeling a profound connection that warmed her aging heart. Every day, while the rest of the family went off to school or work, Marshmallow and Azure were inseparable. She was there for all his firsts: his first tooth, his first steps, his first words. In many ways, it felt like she was reliving the early parenting moments she had missed with her own children.

But Marshmallow wasn’t blind to the toll time had taken on her. Her joints ached, her energy waned, and even simple tasks left her winded. She felt the slow creep of age with every step, and she knew her time was limited. It pained her deeply to think she wouldn’t be around to see Azure, or any of her grandchildren, grow into adulthood. Yet, she kept these fears to herself, determined to make the most of every moment she still had. She didn’t want her family to see her as frail or worry about her impending decline. So, she focused on the present, on each precious day with Azure, and found solace in their shared joy.

Meanwhile, Surf’s fascination with his satellite dish had turned into an obsession. Ever since his alien abduction, his mind was perpetually fixed on the otherworldly experience. He spoke passionately about it to anyone who would listen, recounting every detail of his encounter with the extraterrestrial beings and the incredible knowledge they had imparted. Most people humored him, listening politely without fully believing, but Surf was undeterred. To him, it was all real—far more real than the mundane tasks of everyday life.

At the lab, he threw himself into his work with fervor, developing new serums, experimenting with cloning, and creating innovative devices. Yet, no matter how engrossed he became in his scientific pursuits, his thoughts always drifted back to the stars and the alien world he longed to revisit.

One day, during dinner, Surf excitedly shared his latest breakthrough with the family. “I’m so close,” he said, eyes alight with excitement. “The dish is working better than ever. I just know they’ll contact me again soon.”

The rest of the family exchanged glances, both amused and slightly concerned. They were used to Surf’s ramblings about space and aliens, but there was an intensity to his words that was hard to ignore. They supported his passion, though they couldn’t fully grasp the depth of his fixation.

Peacock turned her attention back to her own thoughts, letting Surf’s words fade into the background. She had enough on her mind already. Her heart still ached for Oxford, the weight of their breakup lingering even as she threw herself into her work. Rising through the ranks at the police station provided a sense of purpose, yet she couldn’t help but feel that something was missing. The nights were the hardest—when the house was quiet and all she had were her memories.

Across the kitchen, Canary sat quietly, her expression distant. Lately, she’d found herself more distracted at work than usual, her thoughts wandering when they should have been focused on reports and deadlines. The cause of her distraction was something she hadn’t yet shared with the whole family, but as the dishes were cleared and the kitchen emptied out, she stayed behind with Peacock.

“Can I talk to you about something?” Canary asked, her voice low.

Peacock nodded, setting down her mug. “Of course. What’s on your mind?”

Canary hesitated, chewing her lip as if weighing her words carefully. “I’ve… started seeing someone. A guy from work—his name’s Holland. It’s new and… kind of confusing.”

Peacock raised an eyebrow, surprised but intrigued. “Canary, that’s great! I didn’t think you were looking for anything like that.”

“Neither did I,” Canary admitted, a faint blush creeping into her cheeks. “I’ve always been so focused on my career and just… life, you know? Love never really seemed like something I needed. But Holland’s different. He’s kind and funny, and I like spending time with him. It’s just… I don’t know what I want from it. I’m not sure if I’m even ready for all this.”

Peacock smiled gently. “I think it’s wonderful you’re exploring this. You don’t have to have it all figured out right away. Sometimes it’s okay to just enjoy the moment and see where it leads.”

Canary looked at her friend, a hint of worry clouding her eyes. “What about you? Do you think you’ll ever want to date again?”

Peacock’s smile faded slightly, and she turned her gaze to the window, watching the twins play outside. “I don’t know. I still miss Oxford so much. It’s hard to imagine loving anyone else the way I loved him. I’m scared, Canary. Scared of opening up and getting hurt again.”

Canary reached over and squeezed Peacock’s hand. “I get it. But you’re so strong, Peacock. You’ve been through so much, and you’re still standing. Maybe one day, you’ll meet someone who makes you feel ready to try again. You don’t have to rush it, but don’t close yourself off completely.”

Peacock nodded, her heart heavy but touched by her friend’s encouragement. “Thanks, Canary. I’ll try. But for now, I’m just focusing on the kids and work. That’s enough for me.”

As the weeks passed, Peacock found herself watching Canary navigate her budding relationship with Holland with a mixture of happiness and envy. She was glad to see her friend taking a chance on love, even if she couldn’t quite envision it for herself yet. Instead, Peacock poured her energy into her family and her job, finding solace in the steady rhythm of her routine.

The twins, Juniper and Bluebell, were thriving in their own world. They were best friends, inseparable in their adventures and explorations. They balanced each other perfectly – Juniper’s adventurous spirit often leading the way, while Bluebell’s thoughtful nature kept them grounded. Their bond was unbreakable, a source of comfort and joy in the bustling house they called home.

Every other weekend, their father, Oxford, would come to visit. Since the breakup with Peacock, he no longer stayed at the house; instead, he’d take the twins on little adventures—strolls around the lake, trips to the local parks, or afternoons spent discovering new corners of the town.

The girls loved these outings, enjoying their father’s attention and the sense of adventure he brought with him. Yet, despite the fun they had, the twins never wished for Oxford to live with them. They were content with the life they knew, surrounded by their close-knit family. They understood that their father’s visits were special moments rather than a constant presence, and for them, that was enough. They were happy with the way things were, content in their cozy home with their mother, grandmother, uncle, and baby brother.

For Peacock, watching the twins interact with their father was bittersweet. She was grateful that they could maintain a relationship with Oxford, but it also served as a reminder of the life they could have shared. Each time Oxford left, it felt like reopening a wound that hadn’t fully healed. But Peacock knew she had made the right choice. She was providing a stable, loving environment for her children, and that was what mattered most.

As for Marshmallow, her days with Azure continued to be a source of joy and comfort. They were best friends, partners in crime, and each other’s biggest fans. While the rest of the family was busy with their daily routines, Marshmallow and Azure created their own little world filled with laughter, love, and countless small adventures. Whether they were building block towers, reading stories, or simply cuddling on the couch, Marshmallow cherished every second.

Yet, with each passing day, Marshmallow could feel her body protesting more. The once simple tasks were becoming harder, her steps slower, her breath more labored. She knew she couldn’t keep up with Azure forever, and the thought of leaving him, of missing out on the rest of his childhood, weighed heavily on her. But she didn’t say anything to the others. She didn’t want them to worry, didn’t want to become another burden.

On quiet afternoons, when the sun streamed through the windows and bathed the living room in a warm glow, Marshmallow would hold Azure close and whisper promises to him. Promises that she would always be with him, that her love would never fade, even when she was gone. She tried to memorize the feel of his tiny hand in hers, the sound of his giggles, the sparkle in his eyes. These were the moments she held onto, the memories she wanted to carry with her for as long as she could.

Peacock and Canary often sat together in the evenings, their conversations a mix of updates, worries, and dreams. They would talk about work, the kids, and everything in between, but occasionally, the topic of love would surface again. Peacock still struggled with the idea of moving on from Oxford, the wound still too fresh, too deep. But with Canary’s gentle encouragement, she began to entertain the thought that maybe, someday, she might be ready to open her heart again.

“I’m just saying,” Canary would tease lightly, “you never know who might walk into your life. Look at me—I never expected Holland, and yet here we are.”

Peacock smiled, appreciating Canary’s optimism even as her own doubts lingered. “You’re right. It’s just… hard to imagine. But I’m happy for you, really. I hope it works out with Holland. You deserve that happiness.”

Canary nodded, her expression softening. “Thanks, Peacock. And remember, you deserve it too. Whenever you’re ready.”

As the evening drew on, the house settled into a peaceful quiet. Marshmallow gently rocked Azure to sleep, humming a lullaby as she did. Surf was still in the garage, his mind lost in the stars, while the twins finished up a puzzle on the living room floor, chattering happily about their day.

Peacock and Canary watched the scene unfold, a sense of contentment settling over them. Life was far from perfect, but there was beauty in the imperfections. They had each other, and in this house filled with love, laughter, and a bit of chaos, they had built a family that could weather whatever storms came their way.

The news of her father’s passing hung over Peacock like a quiet storm, but it was her mother’s calm, almost detached reaction that stirred something deeper within her. Watching Marshmallow carry on without a tear, simply grateful for the family she had now and the peace that had replaced the chaos, Peacock realized what she needed to do. She couldn’t keep waiting, couldn’t keep bending her life around dreams that always seemed just out of reach. It was time to make a choice.

The next day, Oxford was visiting, and they sat by the pool in the garden, the late summer air warm and still. Peacock had been turning the words over in her mind all day, but saying them out loud was harder than she’d imagined.

“Oxford, we need to talk,” she began, her voice steady despite the turmoil inside her. She looked at him, searching his eyes, but found only the same hopeful anticipation she’d seen a dozen times before.

“What’s on your mind?” he asked, turning towards her, the faint light from the pool casting shadows across his face.

Peacock took a deep breath, trying to find the right way to say it. “I can’t keep doing this, Oxford. I can’t keep putting our life on hold, hoping that one day we’ll all be together in the same place. This is our home, and I can’t uproot everything for a maybe.”

Oxford’s expression shifted, his smile fading as he sat up straighter. “Peacock, I know it’s hard, but Copperdale is where I can finally do what I’ve worked so hard for. You understand how much this job means to me.”

“And you understand how much my life here means to me,” she replied, her voice tinged with frustration. “I’ve built something here. We have a family, a home, and I’ve waited so long for this moment when we could finally be together. If you really want that too, you have to look for a job closer to us. We can’t keep living like this—half a life, half a family.”

Oxford stared at her, the weight of her words sinking in. He ran a hand through his hair, his face a mix of pain and confusion. “I don’t want to choose between my career and my family,” he said softly. “I want both. But how can I just walk away from everything I’ve worked for?”

Peacock felt a sharp sting of tears in her eyes, but she held her ground. “I can’t ask you to give up your dream, and I can’t keep giving up mine, either. I love you, Oxford, but I need more than what we have right now. I need a real commitment, not just a promise of someday.”

The silence between them was heavy, filled with the unspoken fears and regrets that had been building for months. Oxford looked down, his shoulders slumping as he realized the truth they’d both been avoiding.

“I want to be with you, Peacock. You and the kids—you’re everything to me,” he said, his voice cracking with emotion. “But I don’t know how to make this work without giving up a part of who I am.”

Peacock nodded, her heart aching as she watched the man she loved wrestle with the impossible choice before him. “I know,” she whispered, her voice barely holding steady. “But I can’t keep compromising for something that’s always out of reach. If we’re going to make this work, you have to be here, really here. And if you can’t do that… then maybe we need to let go.”

Oxford looked at her, his eyes filled with a mix of sadness and understanding. He reached for her hand, squeezing it tightly, but they both knew it wasn’t enough to bridge the gap between their dreams.

“I’m sorry, Peacock,” he said, his voice heavy with regret. “I love you so much, but I can’t walk away from this job. It’s everything I’ve worked for.”

Peacock nodded, tears slipping down her cheeks as she pulled her hand away. “I love you too, but I can’t keep waiting. This has to be it.”

They sat there by the pool, the gentle ripple of water the only sound breaking the silence. Their engagement, their plans, the future they’d once imagined—all of it dissolved under the weight of the choices they couldn’t make. And as Oxford packed his things and left, they both felt the sting of a love that wasn’t enough to bring their worlds together.

In the days following the breakup, Peacock felt like she was moving through a fog. Her heart ached constantly, and no matter how many times she told herself that she had made the right decision, the pain didn’t lessen. She spent hours by herself, crying until she couldn’t anymore, grieving the future she had dreamed of with Oxford.

One afternoon, as Peacock sat by the window staring blankly at the garden, Canary sat down beside her. She didn’t say anything at first, just quietly held her friend’s hand, giving her the space she needed. Finally, she broke the silence.

“I’m so proud of you, Peacock,” Canary said gently. “It takes a lot of courage to stand up for what you want, especially when it means letting go of someone you love. You’ve spent so much time making sure everyone else was okay, and now you’re finally choosing yourself. That’s something to be proud of.”

Peacock nodded, wiping away tears. Somehow, Canary’s words felt like a balm to her aching heart. It didn’t make the sadness disappear, but it gave her a small measure of comfort, a reminder that her choice had been for something, not just against something. She wasn’t giving up; she was moving forward.

When the twins heard about the breakup, they accepted it with the unburdened pragmatism of children. For them, it was just another shift in the landscape of their young lives. They were glad to stay in their home, surrounded by the people they loved. It meant more afternoons playing in the garden, more bedtime stories with Marshmallow, and more space adventures with Uncle Surf. The constant in their lives wasn’t their father’s visits but the warm, steady presence of their mother and the home she had built for them.

A few weeks later, baby Azure was born, with a shock of white hair and dark eyes that immediately stole the hearts of his sisters. Juniper and Bluebell took to their new roles as big sisters with enthusiasm, fussing over him and marveling at his tiny hands and soft coos. For Peacock, holding her son for the first time was bittersweet. She felt an overwhelming rush of love, but he was also a tangible reminder of what could never be—a piece of Oxford that would forever be a part of her life, even as they lived separate paths.

When Oxford reached out, wanting to meet Azure and see the twins, Peacock knew she couldn’t refuse him that. No matter what had happened between them, he was still their father. But when he arrived, the sight of him standing in her living room was almost unbearable. The memories of their love, their plans, all came rushing back, and she had to fight to keep her composure. Watching Oxford hold Azure, seeing him play with the twins, it felt like tearing open a wound she had just begun to heal.

She smiled through the visit, for the sake of her children, but her heart ached with the weight of what could have been. As she watched Oxford say goodbye, promising to visit again soon, Peacock couldn’t help but wish, just for a moment, that things had turned out differently. But she reminded herself that she was strong enough to keep going, to build the life she wanted for herself and her children, even if it didn’t include the person she had once thought she’d share it all with.

---

Marshmallow adored all her grandchildren, but with Azure, there was something different, something deeper. From the moment she held him in her arms, she felt an instant, unbreakable bond. She often found herself marveling at his tiny fingers curling around hers, his bright eyes tracking her every move, and his delighted giggles whenever she blew raspberries on his round cheeks. It was as if, through him, she was given a chance to be the mother she had never fully been able to be to Peacock and Surf—a chance to give without distraction, to love without the shadows of her past lurking at the edges.

She devoted herself to him in a way that was almost surprising, even to her. When Azure fussed, it was Marshmallow who cradled him with infinite patience, humming lullabies until he calmed. She spent hours sitting by his side, narrating stories of her own making, filled with gentle heroes and daring quests, capturing his attention as his little eyes widened in wonder. She reveled in every milestone—his first wobbly steps, his babbled attempts at words, and even the quiet moments when he’d simply rest his head against her shoulder, content just to be held. In those moments, Marshmallow felt a healing of sorts, a filling of gaps she hadn’t realized still ached.

---

For months, Surf spent his evenings hunched over his satellite disk, patiently waiting for a sign from the cosmos. His routine was unwavering, his faith in the device unshakable, even though the screen blinked back in silence night after night. It would have been easy for anyone to dismiss his efforts as a pipe dream, a fanciful obsession, but his family and colleagues recognized the dedication and brilliance behind his work. They saw the light in his eyes whenever he spoke of his theories and the endless possibilities that stretched out among the stars.

Then, one quiet evening, as Surf adjusted the frequency and stared at the screen with his usual intensity, something changed. The signal buzzed and flashed, and there it was—a message. A single word, but it sent a thrill through Surf’s entire being: “Come?” His heart raced with anticipation, and without a moment’s hesitation, he sent back his response: “Yes.”

Moments later, a strange, shimmering light descended outside the house, casting long shadows across the lawn. Surf walked toward it with the calm determination of someone meeting their destiny. He stepped into the light, and suddenly he was weightless, lifted off the ground, hovering for a breathless second before being pulled upwards into a sleek, gleaming ship. Most would have been terrified by the unknown, but Surf felt only the purest excitement coursing through him, like every nerve was lit up with the promise of discovery.

When he returned, time seemed to have bent around him. He was different—his eyes shone brighter, his movements were more purposeful, and he spoke with a newfound confidence that had never been there before. He was bursting with knowledge, ideas, and the certainty that he had glimpsed a part of the universe that few ever would. Surf tried to explain it all to Peacock, words tumbling out as he gestured wildly, but every explanation fell short. How could he capture the vastness, the beauty, the sense of connection he felt with something far beyond their world? It was an experience that defied language, an encounter that had changed him in ways he could barely comprehend himself.

All he could tell her was that he had seen things—learned things—that confirmed everything he had always felt about the universe and its mysteries. It was more than he had ever dreamed of, yet it only fueled his desire to learn more, to one day return to that ship and the beings who had invited him into their world. As he spoke, Peacock watched him with a mix of awe and disbelief, marveling at her brother’s unwavering passion. She didn’t fully understand, but she didn’t need to. She could see that Surf had found exactly what he had been searching for, and that was more than enough.

Peacock was pregnant again, a result of one of the rare and cherished visits Oxford made. Though he tried to come home every other weekend, it never felt like enough for her. Nothing except always would be enough. Despite the distance and longing, she was thrilled at the thought of bringing another child into their lives. This time, Oxford would be around more as his exams were drawing closer, and the idea of having him home permanently felt almost within reach. Oxford shared her excitement, eagerly talking about how he couldn’t wait for their family life to begin for real, without the constant interruptions of goodbyes.

The twins, Juniper and Bluebell, were equally excited but also nervous about becoming big sisters. They spent countless hours whispering to each other, trying to imagine what it would be like once the baby was born. Their feelings were a swirl of anticipation and fear—happy about having a new sibling, yet worried about how things might change. They knew how much their mother longed for the day Oxford would live with them, but what if things weren’t the same once he came back? What if the new baby took up all their mother’s time, or Oxford’s presence changed the dynamic of their unconventional but happy household? It was hard for them to imagine how everything would fit together.

During one of Oxford’s last visits before his final exams, he brought news that threw everything into turmoil. Sitting at their kitchen table, his expression both excited and hesitant, he told Peacock he’d been offered a dream job as a computer engineer in Copperdale. The position was everything he’d worked for, but accepting it would mean he couldn’t move back to San Sequoia as planned. Instead, he suggested that the family could simply move to him, uprooting their lives to start anew in Copperdale.

Peacock felt her chest tighten with frustration. She had waited so long for him to come home for good, to be with her and the kids, to finally settle into the family life they’d both imagined. San Sequoia was her home, where she had built a life with the twins, surrounded by the support of her close-knit family. She didn’t want to start over in a new town, to uproot the kids, or to leave behind everything they knew and loved. “You’re asking too much of me, Oxford,” she argued, her voice edged with hurt. “I’ve been waiting all this time, and now you want us to drop everything and move? This is my home. This is where we’re happy.”

Oxford’s face fell, his excitement dimming under the weight of her reaction. “I know it’s a lot, but this is my dream, Peacock. This job… it’s everything I’ve worked for. I thought maybe you’d understand that.”

The argument left a rift between them, and when Oxford left this time, the departure felt different from all the others. There was no comforting promise of another visit in a few weeks, no playful teasing or hopeful talk of the future. Instead, there was a tension that neither of them could shake, something fragile and uncertain brewing between them.

As Peacock watched his car disappear down the road, she felt a heaviness settle in her chest. She had always believed they could weather anything, that their love would see them through every challenge. But now, she wasn’t so sure. This crack in their relationship felt deeper, more consequential, and she couldn’t help but wonder if it would heal—or if it would only grow wider until there was no way to bridge the distance between them.

---

After Oxford left, Peacock felt an overwhelming mix of emotions—sadness, frustration, and a deep sense of uncertainty about the future. The house was quieter than usual, the usual chaos of family life subdued under the weight of her thoughts. One evening, as the twins played quietly in their room, Peacock found herself in the living room with Canary, the warm glow of the fireplace casting dancing shadows on the walls.

Peacock stared into the flames, her thoughts tangled and heavy. She turned to Canary, her voice barely above a whisper. “I don’t know what to do, Canary. He wants us to move, to start over in Copperdale, but this is our home. How can I just leave everything behind? I’ve waited so long for him to come back, and now he’s asking me to wait even more.”

Canary listened, her expression slowly shifting from understanding to frustration. She had always been the one to push Peacock when she needed it, and now was no different. “Peacock, you’ve been waiting and compromising for Oxford for so long. But he’s asking too much. You’ve built a life here, with the twins, your job, your family… everything that matters to you. Why should you be the one to uproot it all? It’s like he doesn’t even see everything you’ve done to make this work.”

Peacock sighed, her gaze dropping to the flickering fire. “But I love him, Canary. And I know he loves me, too. He’s just trying to follow his dreams.”

“And what about your dreams, Peacock?” Canary pressed, her tone gentle but firm. “You’ve always put him first, but you’ve built something amazing here. You’ve created a home for the girls, surrounded by people who love them. You’ve got a job you’re passionate about. You don’t need to put all that on pause for someone else’s plans. You deserve to live your life fully, not just as an afterthought to his.”

Peacock was silent, absorbing her friend’s words as she stared into the fire. She knew deep down that Canary was right, but the thought of letting go of the future she had envisioned with Oxford was painful. She had spent so long hoping and waiting for the day they would finally be together, raising their family side by side.

In the days that followed, Peacock wrestled with her feelings, tossing the pros and cons back and forth in her mind. She replayed every conversation she’d had with Oxford, every dream they had shared about their future. But as the initial sting of Canary’s words faded, they began to resonate with a truth she couldn’t ignore.

She had her own dreams, and she couldn’t keep putting them on hold for the promise of a someday that always seemed just out of reach. Slowly, she came to the realization that she couldn’t keep waiting for Oxford to finally make their family whole. As much as she loved him, she needed to live her life on her own terms, right here in the home she had built with the twins and her unconventional but loving family.

When she finally made her decision, it was with a heavy heart but also a sense of newfound clarity. She would move forward, creating the life she wanted for herself and her daughters, even if it meant accepting that Oxford might not be a part of it in the way she had always hoped. It wasn’t easy, but Peacock knew it was the right choice—for her, for Juniper and Bluebell, and for the life she was determined to live fully, without waiting for anyone else.

---

The news of Blizzard’s passing came quietly, like a cold wind slipping under the door on a still night, but it hit the household with unexpected force. Though Blizzard had been out of their lives for years, the weight of his absence settled over them like a heavy blanket of snow. Juniper and Bluebell hadn’t seen their grandfather since they were tiny babies, barely old enough to form memories of him, and yet the concept of death, the finality of it, seemed to stir something deep within them and they were both lost in tears at the news.

“It’s okay to feel sad,” Peacock whispered, gently stroking Bluebell’s hair as she sobbed into her shoulder. “Sometimes we grieve not just the person, but the idea of losing someone we never really got to know.”

The twins nodded, sniffling as they tried to make sense of their emotions. For them, Blizzard was more of a shadowy figure, a story from the past rather than a presence in their lives. But still, the loss was real, and Peacock understood the complexity of their grief.

Marshmallow, on the other hand, took the news with a quiet nod, her expression calm and steady. She had long since moved on from her old lover, the fiery arguments and the tumultuous love that had defined their relationship now faded memories. She had found peace in her own way, grateful for the family Blizzard had given her, but also relieved to live without the constant tension that had marked their time together.

As the days passed, Marshmallow continued her routines with a quiet determination. She filled her time with household chores, her hands always busy, her mind always seeking new challenges. In her retirement, she had discovered a new joy in pursuing her many interests—chess, handiness, even trying to write up a standup comedy routine that she knew she would never put to use. She was, as always, driven by the desire to master anything she tried. And, of course, there was the role of grandmother, which she embraced wholeheartedly, spending her days with Juniper and Bluebell, teaching them little skills and sharing her stories.

Life continued, as it always does, moving forward in the quiet rhythm of everyday moments. And though Blizzard’s passing had brought a wave of grief, it also underscored the resilience of the family he had left behind. Marshmallow, Peacock, Surf, Canary and the twins—they were bound together not by perfection, but by the shared threads of love, loss, and the relentless pursuit of dreams, each finding their own way to keep going.

---

During one of Oxford’s rare visits home, the family banded together to give Peacock and Oxford a special night out, just the two of them. With the twins safely in the care of Surf, Canary, and Marshmallow, the couple set out for the marina, eager to enjoy some time alone. The evening air was warm, and the soft hum of the ocean set a perfect backdrop for their date. They strolled hand in hand along the dock, taking in the sight of boats gently swaying with the tide, their reflections shimmering on the water’s surface.

The seafood dinner they had just enjoyed left them both in high spirits, and as they walked hand in hand, Peacock felt the moment was perfect.

They paused at the end of the dock, where the boats bobbed gently in their slips, and the world seemed to quiet down around them. Peacock turned to face Oxford, her heart racing as she gathered her courage. She took a deep breath, looking into his eyes, and smiled.

“Oxford,” she began, her voice soft but steady, “there’s something I’ve been wanting to say for a while now.”

He looked at her curiously, sensing the seriousness in her tone. Peacock reached into her pocket and pulled out a small, simple ring she had been carrying with her all evening.

“I love you,” she continued, her voice full of emotion, “and I can’t imagine spending my life with anyone else. Will you marry me?”

Oxford’s eyes widened in surprise, his gaze shifting from the ring to Peacock’s face. A grin spread across his face as he realized what she was asking. Without hesitation, he took her hands in his, his eyes bright with happiness.

“Yes, Peacock,” he replied, his voice filled with warmth. “Of course, I’ll marry you.”

They both laughed, a mixture of joy and relief, as they embraced, holding each other close. The night air was cool, but the warmth of the moment made it feel as if the world had stopped just for them.

After a long, lingering kiss, they pulled back, still holding onto each other. The future suddenly seemed more tangible, their shared dreams now set in motion with this simple, yet profound commitment.

As they walked back down the dock, hand in hand, they talked about their plans. They both agreed that, as much as they wanted to get married right away, it made sense to wait until after Oxford finished his degree. Three more years, they decided, would give them time to prepare for the life they wanted to build together.

The weekend came to an end all too quickly, and when Oxford packed his bags to return to university, the goodbye was harder than usual. The joy of their engagement made the separation more poignant, as they now had something even more precious to look forward to.

Standing on the porch, Peacock watched him drive away, her fingers gently touching the ring on her finger. The wait would be tough, but the promise they had made to each other that night on the docks was more than enough to carry her through until they could finally be together for good.

---

Canary had never had a real boyfriend. Sure, there had been a few flings here and there, but nothing that had ever turned into something serious. It wasn’t that she was against the idea of a relationship—it just hadn’t happened for her. For the most part, it hadn’t bothered her either. She had always been content with her life as it was, living in the moment, surrounded by the people she loved most, especially her best friend, Peacock. But now, with the news of Peacock’s engagement, a subtle shift had started within her. The idea of them both growing older, with Peacock starting a new chapter in her life, left Canary feeling unexpectedly adrift. She found herself questioning whether she had missed out on something important, something everyone else seemed to naturally gravitate towards.

It was a strange, unfamiliar feeling for her. For so long, she had been content with her independence, with the life she had carved out for herself with her best friend and her family by her side, and her career in business. She had always pictured herself as a career driven person, but now, there was a nagging thought in the back of her mind—was she missing out on something deeper? Was there more to life than the carefree days she had always cherished? The engagement had stirred something in her, and she wasn’t quite sure what to make of it.

Surf, on the other hand, had never really understood the fuss about romance—or even friendship, for that matter. While he could grasp the concepts in a theoretical sense, he had never truly craved those connections himself. People were, in his view, strange and unpredictable, and he found solace in the certainty of his work. His days were filled with the pursuit of knowledge, his mind constantly focused on his dream of one day exploring space. The intricacies of human relationships seemed trivial in comparison, a puzzle he had never felt compelled to solve.

Yet, there was one exception to his otherwise solitary nature—his nieces. Juniper and Bluebell were two of the few people Surf felt he genuinely understood. Perhaps it was their innocence, or the fact that their needs were simple and straightforward. Whatever the reason, he found himself deeply attached to them, pouring his energy into being the best uncle he could be. In them, he saw a reflection of the world he could comprehend—clear, uncomplicated, and full of potential.

As he continued to immerse himself in his work, building rockets, inventing new gadgets and experimenting with new minerals, Surf occasionally wondered if he was missing something fundamental about human connection. But those thoughts never lingered long. After all, he was content in his own way, with his mind fixed on the stars and the future he envisioned. His life, though different from those around him, was one that made sense to him. And for now, that was enough.

---

As the twins, Juniper and Bluebell, grew older and started school, Peacock continued to enjoy the rhythm of family life. She adored spending time with her children, teaching them how to ride their bikes down the quiet streets of their neighborhood or standing beside them at the stove, showing them how to flip pancakes without making a mess. These small, everyday moments filled her with a deep sense of fulfillment and joy. Having grown up in a house filled with tension, fights, and arguments, Peacock felt blessed to provide her daughters with a home of peace, warmth, and love—everything she had always wished for as a child.

Yet, even in these moments of happiness, Peacock couldn’t shake the longing to share all of this with Oxford. She missed him every day, wishing he could be there to watch Juniper pedal down the street for the first time or see Bluebell’s face light up when she learned how to mix the perfect pancake batter. She knew he felt the same, their nightly phone calls often filled with stories of what he was missing and the life they were building without him. But the end was in sight. With only a year left of his education, Peacock was filled with a hopeful anticipation, knowing that soon their little family would be whole again.

Juniper and Bluebell still looked very much alike, despite their now different hair cuts and clothing styles, and they often confused people who didn’t know them well. Yet their personalities were distinct, shaped by the experiences they sought out.

Juniper had now become the more adventurous of the two, always full of energy and seeking new challenges. She loved climbing trees, building forts, and inventing new games with her friends at school. There was a fearless curiosity in her that kept her in constant motion, always eager to explore the world around her.

Bluebell, on the other hand, was a softer soul—more thoughtful and introspective. She could often be found curled up with a book, lost in a story, or sitting quietly with her grandmother or Uncle Surf, playing chess or discussing the wonders of the universe. She had a gentle, calming presence that balanced her sister’s boundless energy.

Despite their differences, Juniper and Bluebell were inseparable, their bond forged in shared experiences and mutual understanding. They were the best of friends, always looking out for one another and rarely seen apart. Whether they were playing in the backyard, building castles in the sandbox, or simply whispering secrets under the covers at night, their connection was unbreakable. Peacock watched them with a heart full of pride, knowing she had created a home where her daughters could thrive in their own unique ways while still cherishing the closeness they shared. She looked forward to the day Oxford would be back, completing the picture of the family she’d always dreamed of—a home filled with love, support, and the freedom to be exactly who they were meant to be.

---

Surf arrived at the house with a spring in his step, cradling a huge, wrapped unwieldy object in his arms. It was late at night, and the kids were already at sleep inside the house. Peacock was in the kitchen, finishing up the dishes while Canary and Marshmallow watched a comedy show on the TV, their laughter filling the space with a comforting hum of normalcy.

“Peacock, you’ve got to see this!” Surf called out, his voice tinged with excitement. He set the bulky object down in the front yard, removing the covering with a flourish to reveal the gleaming satellite disk. Its polished surface caught the light, reflecting a thousand tiny suns in its intricate design.

Peacock came out through the front door, curiosity piqued. She walked over, wiping her hands on a dish towel. “What is it?” she asked, eyeing the disk with intrigue.

“It’s the satellite disk I’ve been working on,” Surf explained, unable to contain the grin spreading across his face. “If it works the way I think it will, we could actually make contact with other life forms out in space. I mean, we’re talking about real, intelligent signals from who-knows-where.” He ran his hand over the disk’s surface, his touch almost reverent.

Peacock stared at the disk, then back at her brother, catching the uncharacteristic spark in his eyes. Surf was usually so composed, so contained in his emotions, but this—this was something different. She could see the magnitude of his hope and excitement, the weight of his ambitions compacted into this one creation.

“Are you serious?” she asked, her tone caught between amazement and disbelief. “You really think this could work?”

Surf nodded, his gaze fixed intently on the disk. “It’s not a rocket, and it’s not going to get me to space just yet, but it’s the next best thing. It’s a way to reach out there, to see if there’s anything—or anyone—trying to reach back. Even if it’s just signals bouncing around in the void, it feels like a huge step forward.”

Peacock watched him, feeling a surge of pride swell in her chest. Surf had always been different, marching to the beat of his own drum, but this was more than she had ever seen him strive for. He was reaching beyond the boundaries of his lab, beyond the limits of his world, in search of something bigger.

“That’s incredible, Surf,” she said softly, pulling him into a hug. “I’m so proud of you. You’ve been working towards this for so long, and now it’s finally happening.”

Surf’s eyes flickered to hers, the briefest hint of emotion crossing his face before he nodded, a quiet but unmistakable affirmation. “It’s just the beginning, but it’s a start. I can’t even explain how it feels to finally be on the verge of something like this. It’s like I’m finally connecting with… whatever’s out there. Or maybe just with the part of me that’s always wanted to know.”

Peacock squeezed his arm gently, sharing in his triumph. She knew this wasn’t just about the disk or the potential signals; it was about Surf finding his place in the vast unknown, a journey that was uniquely his. Even if it wasn’t the finished rocket or the chance to visit space, this was his bridge to the stars, and she could see how much it meant to him.

“You’ve always been good at making connections, Surf,” she said with a smile. “Even if it’s with something out there that we can’t see yet. You’re doing something amazing.”

For a moment, they stood together out under the stars, the disk gleaming between them like a promise of endless possibilities. And though Surf’s eyes were fixed on the stars beyond their little home, Peacock knew he was closer than ever to reaching them.

As the crisp morning air filled their lungs, Peacock and Canary walked side by side through the familiar park. Peacock’s belly had grown heavy, each step a reminder of how close she was to meeting her babies. Canary, sensing her friend’s quiet anticipation, broke the silence.

“You know,” Canary began, glancing at Peacock with a rare softness in her eyes, “I’ve been thinking. When the time comes, I want to be there with you. For the birth.”

Peacock turned to her, surprised but touched. “Canary, are you sure? I know how you feel about kids and all…”

Canary shrugged, her usual sharp wit softened by genuine care. “They’re not just any kids, Pea. They’re yours. And I want to be there for you, even if it means dealing with all the baby stuff. You won’t be alone.”

Peacock smiled, feeling a surge of gratitude. “Thank you, Canary. It means the world to me to have you there.”

A few weeks later, the twins arrived. The labor was long, but with Canary by her side, holding her hand through every contraction and cracking jokes to keep the mood light, Peacock felt supported. When the babies finally came, two little girls, the room was filled with the sound of their first cries, and Peacock’s heart swelled with an overwhelming love.

Not long after, Blizzard arrived with his new girlfriend, Sapphire, to help out with the newborns. It had been years since Peacock and Surf had seen their father, and his sudden presence stirred up old emotions. As they all settled into the routine of caring for the twins, Surf found a moment to pull his father aside.

“Dad,” Surf began, his voice low but steady, “I need to talk to you. About when you left.”

His father looked at him, the lines around his eyes deepening with regret. “Surf, I know I hurt you both when I left. I’ve thought about it every day.”

Surf nodded, the pain of abandonment still fresh despite the years. “I just need you to know how much it affected me. I felt like you abandoned us, and it’s taken me a long time to process that.”

His father sighed, running a hand through his graying hair. “I’m sorry, Surf. I can’t change the past, but I want to be here now, for you, for Peacock, and for my grandchildren.”

The conversation left them both with a sense of closure, even if the wounds hadn’t fully healed.

The twins, Juniper and Bluebell, quickly became the heart of the household, their presence filling the home with new energy and endless wonder. They were almost identical in appearance, both with soft tufts of blue hair and round, curious eyes. The only noticeable difference was the birthmark on Juniper’s temple, a delicate splash of color that set her apart from her sister.

Though they looked alike, their personalities were as different as night and day. Juniper was wiggly and active, always moving, always reaching for something new to explore. She had a mischievous streak, often the first to burst into giggles or to find herself in the middle of whatever tiny chaos she could create. Bluebell, on the other hand, was more sensitive and thoughtful. She preferred to observe her surroundings quietly, taking in the world with wide eyes and a calm demeanor. She was easily comforted by the sound of her mother’s voice or the gentle sway of being rocked to sleep.

Surf, who had quickly become the doting uncle, loved watching the twins grow and develop. But his days were still filled with the demands of his work at the science lab. Each morning, he would head out early, his mind already buzzing with the experiments and projects that awaited him.

The lab had become a second home, where he spent hours collecting and analyzing new minerals from various sources. His passion for geology had evolved into something more profound as he began creating serums and compounds, each designed with a specific purpose—some to heal, others to advance scientific knowledge in ways he hadn’t imagined before.

But the most ambitious project that consumed his time was the space rocket he was building. The dream of exploring space, of visiting other planets to study their minerals and perhaps uncovering new elements entirely, drove him forward. The rocket was a work in progress, a symbol of his determination to reach beyond the confines of Earth. Each piece of the puzzle, every component meticulously crafted, brought him one step closer to his goal. Despite the long hours and the occasional setbacks, Surf remained undeterred, his eyes always on the stars.

On weekends, when he wasn’t working, Surf would come home and spend time with the twins, who were endlessly fascinated by the shiny rocks and small contraptions he sometimes brought back from the lab. He loved explaining his work to them, even if they were too young to understand, imagining the day when they might share his curiosity about the universe.

As for Peacock, she found herself balancing her new role as a mother with her career, returning to the police force with renewed passion. Her sharp eye for detail and natural ability to piece together evidence made her an invaluable asset to her team. She quickly rose through the ranks, earning the respect of her colleagues and superiors alike. Each case she worked on felt like solving a complex puzzle, and she thrived in the challenge, even as she managed the demands of motherhood.

Then came the much-anticipated weekend when Oxford returned home. He rushed through the door with an eagerness that hadn’t faded with time, and the moment he saw his children, his heart melted. Juniper wiggled excitedly in his arms, flashing her usual mischievous grin, while Bluebell gazed up at him with her calm, steady eyes. Oxford was utterly smitten. He spent the entire weekend doting on them, marveling at their tiny features and soaking in every precious moment.

Despite the joy of being together, the weekend passed all too quickly, and when it was time for Oxford to return to university, the weight of parting hung heavily over them. Peacock watched him pack his bag, their future once again clouded by the distance between them. But as she looked at her family—her twins who had brought new life into their home, Surf with his dreams of space, and Canary’s steadfast presence—she knew they would find a way to make it work, no matter what challenges lay ahead.

---

After years of leading a life that was equal parts dangerous and lucrative, Marshmallow decided it was time for a change. She had one last job planned as the boss for her ciminal gang—a high-stakes operation that promised a significant payout. The job went off without a hitch, and Marshmallow walked away with enough money to secure a future for her unconventional family. With the decision to retire from her life of crime, she knew she needed to find a new place for them, somewhere far from the shadows of her past.

Determined to leave her criminal career behind and start fresh, Marshmallow began house hunting. She scoured listings, looking for a place big enough to house their growing family—a place where Peacock, the twins, Surf, Canary, and herself could all live comfortably. She wanted it to be in a neighboring town, a peaceful, quiet community where they could blend in and build a new life together.

After weeks of searching, Marshmallow finally found it—a spacious, beautiful house nestled in a quiet neigborhood overlooking a small marina. It had everything she was looking for: large bedrooms, a modern kitchen, a sprawling backyard, and most importantly, a nursery for the twins.

The nursery had plenty of space for Juniper and Bluebell to grow and play. It felt like the perfect place to start over.

Excited, Marshmallow invited the rest of the family to see the house. As they toured the rooms, Surf admired the large windows that filled the house with natural light, already imagining where he could set up his home lab to continue his experiments. Canary, ever the practical one, took in the spacious living areas and the cozy nooks, nodding approvingly. Peacock, holding Juniper and Bluebell close, felt a sense of peace she hadn’t experienced in a long time. This house was everything they needed and more—a true home where they could build new memories together.

Oxford, though not as present as Peacock would have liked, came around to visit whenever he could. His visits were infrequent, and the distance often weighed heavily on both of them, but when he was there, it was like no time had passed. They cherished the moments they had together, whether it was playing with the twins in their new nursery, cooking meals as a family, or just sitting on the porch, talking about their dreams for the future.

Though their time together was always too short, and the goodbyes were harder each time, the house became a symbol of the life they were all trying to build—a life rooted in love, support, and the hope that, one day, they could all be together under one roof for good. As Oxford packed his bags to leave once more, Peacock would watch him go with a bittersweet smile, holding on to the knowledge that their new home was always there, waiting for his return.

Peacock pushed open the door to their house and the evening air was cool against her skin as she stepped inside. The warmth of the small space wrapping around her like a comforting blanket. She set her keys on the table by the door, her thoughts still swirling from her conversation with Oxford at the bowling alley. The weight of the secret she still carried felt heavier now, but she knew she couldn’t keep it to herself any longer.

“Surf, you have time?” she asked and went over to the couch where her brother was sitting.

“Yeah, sure,” came his response rather absent-mindedly.

Surf was surrounded by a pile of papers and a few strange-looking rocks. He was focused on his tablet, scrolling through some notes with that intense, curious look he always got when he was deep into his work.

“Busy night?” she asked, sitting down next to her brother.

Surf looked up, a grin spreading across his face when he saw her. “You could say that. The lab’s been crazy lately. We’re working on this new project, analyzing minerals from a site we found out in the desert. Some of the stuff we’ve been collecting is unlike anything we’ve seen before.”

Peacock raised an eyebrow, intrigued despite the storm of thoughts in her own head. “Sounds intense. What kind of minerals?”

Surf sat up, his enthusiasm bubbling over as he grabbed one of the rocks from the table and held it up for her to see. It was red, with faint glimmers of silver embedded in the rough surface. “This one, for example, has properties that are off the charts. We’re still trying to figure out exactly what it is, but it’s reacting in ways we didn’t expect when we started running tests. And the serums we’re creating with the extracts? They’re showing some serious potential. I think we’re onto something big.”

Peacock smiled, her brother’s excitement contagious. She was always amazed at how passionate he was about his work, how he could lose himself in the world of science and discovery for hours on end. It was one of the things she admired most about him—his ability to dive deep into something and emerge with new knowledge, new ideas.

“That’s amazing, Surf,” she said, genuinely impressed. “You’re doing some pretty groundbreaking stuff.”

He grinned, pleased with her interest, but then his smile faded as he caught the look in her eyes. “But enough about me. What’s going on with you, Pea? You’ve got that look on your face. The one where you’re trying to figure out how to say something important.”

She sighed, feeling the emotions she’d been holding back all evening surge to the surface. “I… I need to tell you something.”

Surf set the rock down, his full attention now on her. “Okay, I’m listening.”

Peacock took a deep breath and fidgeted with the hem of her shirt, trying to find the right words. “I’m pregnant.”

The words hung in the air for a moment, heavy and real. Surf’s eyes widened, his mouth opening slightly in surprise, but he quickly recovered, his expression softening into one of concern and support.

“Pea…” he started, but she cut him off, the rush of everything she’d been holding in spilling out.

“And I was going to tell Oxford tonight, but then he told me that he got accepted into a computer engineering program at a university in another town. He’s thinking about going, and I just… I couldn’t tell him. Not yet. I didn’t want to add more pressure, you know? I want him to follow his dream, just like I’ve been able to follow mine. But I’m scared, Surf. I don’t know what’s going to happen.”

Surf reached out and took her hand, his grip warm and steady. “Wow, that’s… a lot. But Pea, listen to me. You’re one of the strongest people I know. You’ve got this, and you don’t have to do it alone. I’m here for you, no matter what happens.”

Tears welled up in her eyes at his words, the emotions she’d been keeping at bay threatening to overwhelm her. “But what if he leaves? What if I can’t do this without him?”

Surf shook his head, his eyes filled with determination. “You’re not going to be without him, Peacock. Even if Oxford goes to that university, it doesn’t mean he’s gone. And you’ve got me. I’ll be here, every step of the way. I’ve got a stable job now, and I can help out with whatever you need. And I doubt Canary will be going anywhere. You’re not alone in this.”

She looked at her brother, her heart swelling with gratitude and love. Surf had always been her rock, the one she could count on no matter what, and hearing him say those words eased some of the fear gnawing at her.

“Canary hates kids” she said with a faint smile, though her voice was still thick with emotion.

“That is true” Surf replied with a soft smile. “But she loves you more. We’ll figure this out together. And when the time is right, you’ll tell Oxford. He deserves to know, and I promise you, you two will figure out a way where he can be a part of your life – even if he decides to go.”

Peacock nodded, wiping away the tears that had started to fall. “Thank you, Surf. I don’t know what I did to deserve a brother like you.”

“You just got lucky, I guess,” he teased, pulling her into a comforting hug. “And for the record, this baby’s lucky too. They’re going to have the best mom in the world.”

She laughed through her tears, hugging him back tightly. “And the best uncle.”

After talking to her brother, Peacock felt a sense of relief wash over her. The future was uncertain, and there were challenges ahead, but she wasn’t facing them alone.

---

Peacock and Canary strolled through the park, the sounds of children playing nearby making Peacock’s heart race with the news she was about to share. Canary, as usual, rolled her eyes at the noisy kids, muttering, “Why do parents think parks are the best place to unleash their sticky, loud children?”

Peacock took a deep breath and stopped walking, turning to face her friend. “Canary, I have to tell you something. I’m pregnant.”

Canary’s eyes widened in surprise before a small, wry smile spread across her face. “Of course you are, Pea. You’d be the one to bring kids into this world.”

Peacock hesitated, then quickly added, “I get it if you want to find your own place—”

But Canary cut her off, shaking her head. “No way. I’m not going anywhere. Kids aren’t my thing, but you are. I promise I’ll stay, and I’ll do my best to love them, even if they are… you know, kids.”

Peacock’s eyes filled with gratitude as she hugged her friend. “Thank you, Canary. That means everything.”

“Just don’t ask me to change diapers,” Canary teased, squeezing her back. “But I’ll be the coolest aunt ever. Maybe even teach them to hate kids too.”

---

When Peacock finally told Oxford about the pregnancy, she watched his eyes light up with joy, a broad smile spreading across his face as he wrapped her in a tight embrace. “Peacock, that’s incredible,” he said, his voice full of emotion. But after a moment, his expression turned thoughtful, and he sighed. “I’m really happy about this, but…”

Peacock cut him off mid-sentence, “I know. You have to go to University. It’s yout dream and you’ve worked hard to get there. I know what it’s like to have someone stand in the way of your dream and I don’t want to be that person for you.”

Oxford leaned against Peacock, his hand slowly moving up and down her leg. “I’ll be here as often as I can. I promise I will help as much as I can, even if I’m not here all the time.”

Peacock and Oxford sat silently next to each other on the bench, just holding on to each other and the moment. Once they had said their goodbyes, Peacock was left with a bittersweet ache in her chest. Though she knew it was the right decision, she couldn’t help but feel a sting of sadness knowing he wouldn’t be there every day with her and their future child. Sure, she would have Surf and Canary but it wouldn’t be the same as it would have been to do this together with Oxford. But she knew she would be okay, and it would be okay. Somehow.

---

As the weeks turned into months, Peacock settled into the rhythm of her life. She continued working at the station, her growing belly becoming a source of both curiosity and excitement among her colleagues. They were more than just workmates now—they were friends.

Every day, someone would stop by her desk with a snack, a piece of advice, or just to chat about how she was feeling. The jokes about baby names and bets on whether it would be a boy or a girl filled the air with warmth and laughter, making the office feel like a safe haven.

Peacock was halfway through her pregnancy when she went for an ultrasound scan. She lay on the exam table, the cool gel on her belly contrasting with the warmth of the ultrasound technician’s smile. As the technician moved the wand across her skin, he suddenly paused and smiled. “Peacock,” he said, his voice laced with excitement, “I have some news for you. You’re not just expecting one baby—you’re expecting twins.”

Peacock’s breath hitched, her emotions swirling in a mix of joy and anxiety. She stared at the screenm two little heartbeats flashing in unison. Twins. A part of her was flooded with love and excitement, imagining the double dose of joy they would bring. But almost immediately, a wave of worry washed over her. Oxford wouldn’t be around to help her navigate this new reality, and the thought of facing it alone was daunting.

Yet, as she rested her hand on her belly, she found some comfort in knowing Surf and Canary would be there. Their promise to stick around and help was a lifeline she clung to, easing the edges of her fear. Despite everything, she knew she would never have to face this journey all by herself.

When she got home that evening, Surf was in the kitchen, chopping vegetables for dinner. “Hey Pea” he said without looking up, the knife making a rhythmic sound against the cutting board. “You’re just in time. Dinner’s almost ready.”

She smiled, the weight of today’s news pressing on her, but she decided to wait until they were all gathered. Her mother was setting the table and Canary was just taking a shower after work.

As they sat down to eat, the conversation flowed easily, but Peacock could hardly focus on the words. Eventually, she took a deep breath. “I have some news” she began, her voice shaking a little because of the nervous flutter in her stomach. The others looked up at her. “You know I had that scan today… and it seems I’m having twins.”

There was a brief stunned silence. Surf was the first to react, his face breaking into a wide grin. “Twins? That’s incredible Pea!” he exclaimed. “Double the trouble, but double the joy too.”

Canary’s eyes widened, and then she let out a short, incredulous laugh. “Well, I guess I just have to get a pair of noise-cancelling headphones, then.”

Marshmallow sat quietly for a moment, her expression a mix of surprise and something deeper, a flicker of pride. “Twins” she repeated softly, reaching across the table to take Peacock’s hand. “You’re going to do great, Peacock. And you know what. That’s it. I’m sticking to my job until we have enough money to rebuild this house to fit us all better, then I’m out. I want to be there for you and your kids. Fully.”

People looked around the table at the people who were her family, feeling a wave of relief and gratitude. The prospect of raising these two kids on her own felt less daunting knowing she had their support. And, her mother’s words warmed her heart more than she had imagined. “Thank you” she said. “I’m so happy you’ll do this with me.”

---

As the weeks passed, Peacock settled into a comforting routine, feeling the unwavering support of her makeshift family. Surf took on more cooking duties, whipping up nutritious meals and doting on her with big-brotherly concern. Canary, despite her initial reservations, became a surprising source of laughter, always ready with a witty remark or a funny story to lighten the mood. Even Peacock’s mother, often busy with her own life, seemed to make more time for her, offering small gestures of care that meant more than words.

The excitement in the house grew with each passing day. The three of them would spend evenings together, planning for the babies’ arrival, arguing over names, and preparing the nursery. Their collective enthusiasm wrapped Peacock in a warm cocoon of love and anticipation, making her feel truly blessed despite the challenges ahead.

Every night, Peacock talked with Oxford on the phone. His voice was a constant source of comfort, bridging the miles between them. They would talk for hours, sharing the little details of their days, laughing over the twins’ latest kicks, and dreaming about the future. Though he wasn’t physically present, those conversations made him feel close, and it was clear how much he missed her and the life they were building together.

When her due date drew near, Oxford managed to come home for a weekend. He showed up at her door with his usual warm smile and a bag full of her favorite snacks, determined to spoil her for the few days they had together. They spent the weekend enjoying the simple pleasures they had missed—cooking together, watching movies, and just being near each other. But the highlight was their visit to the lake on the Sunday.

They strolled along the familiar path, the water glistening under the late summer sun. When the heat became too much, they waded into the cool, refreshing water, letting it wash away their worries. As they floated side by side, the weight of their future seemed to lift, replaced by a deep sense of peace. They talked about everything—how they would manage with two babies, where they might live after Oxford finished school, and all the hopes they had for their growing family.

But as the afternoon rolled around, the reality of Oxford’s departure loomed over them. It was hard for him to go, to leave her behind when she was so close to giving birth. His hesitation was clear, but Peacock, ever understanding, reassured him. “You need to finish what you started,” she said softly, cupping his face in her hands. “We’ll be okay. I promise.”

With one last lingering kiss, Oxford reluctantly left, but not before promising to return as soon as he could. As she watched him drive away, Peacock felt a familiar pang of sadness, knowing they would have to navigate this next chapter apart. But she also felt a quiet strength, bolstered by the love and support that surrounded her, confident that they would make it through, together, no matter the distance.

Peacock stood at the entrance of the station, a huge stone building with a facade that spoke of decades of service and history. It wasn’t her first day at the job, but the grandness of the building and the feeling of stepping into a life she had dreamed of without her mother’s choices as a shadow following her, hadn’t yet vanished. Each day she had walked through these doors, it had felt like her future mattered and that her mother’s choices couldn’t stop her.

She squared her shoulders, adjusted the collar of her uniform and pushed the doors open. The inside of the building was bustling with activity – officers moving in and out, the steady ringing of phones and the low murmur of conversations. But beneath the chaos was a sense of order, a rhythm that she quickly picked up on.

“Peacock! Over here” called a voice from the front desk. It was officer Duke, an older man who had been one of the first to welcome her when she started. His face softened into a smile when she approached. “You ready for another day?”

She smiled back, nodding. “Always ready.”

“That’s what I like to hear”, he said, handing her a stack of papers. “Got a couple of witness statements that need taking. The first one’s over at Garden’s Essence in Willow Creek. One of the residents there saw something suspicious last night. Think you can handle it?”

“Absolutely” she replied, taking the papers.

Duke chuckled. “Knew I could count on you. You got a knack for this, you know that?”

Peacock smiled modestly, her heart warming at the compliment. “I just try to listen, that’s all.”

“And that’s exactly why you’re good at it” Duke said, a note of approval in his voice. “Not everyone takes their time to really listen.”

As Peacock made her way to the right house, her thoughts drifted to the conversation she had with her mother a few weeks back – the way her mother’s voice had trembled when she promised to not let her own career stand in the way of Peacock’s future.

“I know I’ve made mistakes” her mother had said, with traces of regret in her eyes. “But you… you deserve this, Peacock. And I won’t do anything to ruin it for you. I promise.”

Peacock had been angry then, feeling like the betrayal couldn’t be forgiven so easily. Her mother’s life and her own dreams had been on a collision course and she hadn’t been ready to forgive. But now, finally, it felt like there was a path forward where maybe they didn’t have to destroy each other. Her mother had rarely lied but often kept her promises.

After hearing her mother promise that she would put Peacock’s career above her own, Peacock felt easier and calmer. As if things had settled. It was weird, because really nothing had changed – her mother was still a criminal and her own career choice was the very opposite.

It was still a quiet and crisp morning when she arrived at the small wooden house overlooking the river. The girl in the house was around Peacock’s age and had kind eyes and a nervous demeanor. When Peacock came, she was sitting on the porch moving chess pawns mindlessly back and forth – clearly trying to pass time rather than playing the game.

“Miss Apples?” Peacock asked gently and sat down opposite the girl.

The girl looked up, her eyes brightening when she saw Peacock’s uniform. “Yes, that’s me. Are you here to take my statement?”

Peacock nodded, offering a reassuring smile. “Yes, I’m officer Sprinkles. Thank you for agreeing to talk to me. I understand you saw something unusual last night?”

Miss Apples shoulders relaxed visibly at Peacock’s calm demeanor. “Yes, I did. It was just after midnight, I was just getting in bed when I saw an elder lady standing by the trash cans outside. She was rather short, wearing a jacket. I couldn’t see her face because it was dark, but there was something about how she was just standing there that gave me a bad feeling.”

Peacock listened carefully and scribbled down notes as Miss Apples talked. She could see the worry lines creasing the woman’s forehead and her fingers nervously fidgeting with the knight pawn she was holding.

“You did the right thing by calling us” Peacock said with a soothing and calm voice. “Can you remember anything else about her? Something specific that stood out?”

Miss Apples frowned in concentration, her hands finally stilling. “Hm, she was standing slightly hunched. And oh… there was something on her shoes, like mud or dirt or something. It was weird because she looked neatly dressed in general, just the shoes seemed out of place.”

“Thank you, Miss Apples, this is very helpful” Peacock said once she had written it all down. “We’ll look into this. And, if you remember anything else, no matter how small, don’t hesitate to call us again”.

“Thank you, Officer. It feels better to know you’re handling this.” The woman’s face looked less worried now and she smiled towards Peacock.

Peacock smiled back, a sense of pride swelling in her chest. This was why she was happy about this path. She had always been good at seeing the little things others missed, and she’d always had a way of making people feel safe.

When she returned to the station, she felt more certain than ever that this was exactly where she was meant to be. She wasn’t just following her dream – she was building on her strenghts and creating a new future for herself. And in that certainty, there was a sense of peace she had never felt before.

Her phone buzzed in her pocket as she reached the station. She pulled it out, smiling when she saw Oxford’s name on the screen.

How’s the first week going? he’d texted.

Going great, I think I’m getting the hang of it. She typed back, smiling as she did.

Never doubted it, came his quick response and Peacock’s heart did a little flip.

Wanna take a walk later? she asked and he replied instantly with a thumbs up. She pocketed the phone, her smile lingering as she walked in to the station building. It was still early, and there was lots of work to be done, but for the first time in a long time, she felt as if everything was falling into place. And maybe, just maybe, she was finally free to live her own life.

---

The sun sent a shimmer above the lake’a surface and a small breeze carried the scent of freshly bloomed wildflowers when Peacock and Oxford met each other after work that day.

They greeted each other with a quick hug before they started their walk around the lake, side by side. Their footsteps were in sync, though none of them seemed to notice.

For the first few minutes, they walked in comfortable silence, the kind that had begun to settle among them on their casual dates the last few weeks. It was a silence filled with unspoken words, the kind that needed no filling.

Peacock stole a glance at Oxford, who was looking out over the water with a look she had come to recognize over the past weeks. His brows slightly furrowed and his eyes soft, as if he was in a constant thoughtful mood. She couldn’t help but smile, he was patient in a way that both comforted and unnerved her, especially with the secret of what her mother had done hanging as an unspoken, invisible cloud between them. Yet, Oxford remained calm, steady and unassuming.

They reached the fishing dock and Peacock stopped, the weight of her secret pressing on her chest. Oxford stopped down next to her, silently just looking out over the still water.

“Isn’t it beautiful?” Oxford asked, finally breaking the silence. His voice was warm, as if he was sharing something precious with her.

“Yes, it is” Peacock replied, her voice softer than usual. She hesitated, biting her lip. “It’s beautiful here, peaceful. Makes you think about… things.”

Oxford turned to her, his gaze curious, but patient as always. “Like what things?”

Peacock shrugged, trying to fake nonchalance, but the words tumbled out anyways. “Like… what really matters. Who matters.”

Oxford nodded, waiting, giving her time to carry on without interrupting.

Peacock looked down, her feet scratching nervously against the ground. “Oxford, there’s something I haven’t told you you… about my mom.”

His expression didn’t change, but she saw the flicker of something in his eye, something that made her heart stutter. He already knew, she realized. And yet, here he was, waiting for her to tell him. The thought of it made her chest tighten.

“I’ve been… I’ve been avoiding it because it’s complicated” Peacock continued, her voice barely a whisper. “She’s done things, things I’m not proud of. Things that… well, made me question everything.” She paused, looking out over the water, anywhere but his face. “But I’ve been so angry with her, for betraying everything I want to stand for, and I’ve been so ashamed that I didn’t know how to talk about it. I was scared it would push you away but now I just can’t stand the thought of not telling you and making you feel just as betrayed as I did.”

Oxford inched closer, his hand hovering just above hers, not touching, but close enough that she could feel the warmth radiating from him. “You don’t have to say anything you’re not ready to say, Peacock”.

“I want to. I want to because I just realized you matter to me. More than I thought.”

There it was, the truth slipping out like a secret she didn’t know she was keeping. The realization hit her with the force of a wave, making her knees weak. She was in love with him. She had been falling for him in a dozen of small moments, in the way he listened without judgement, in the way he had been there for her over and over again without ever asking for anything in return.

Oxford’s eyes softened and a small smile tugged at the corners of his mouth. He took her hand then, slowly and carefully, as if afraid she might pull back. But she didn’t. She squeezed his hand, grounding herself in the feeling of their fingers intertwined.

“I’ve known, Peacock” he said quietly, his thumb brushing over her knuckles. “About your mom. But I wanted you to tell me when you felt ready. I wanted you to trust me with it.”

Tears pricked at her eyes but she blinked them away. “Why didn’t you say anything?”

“Because it was your story to tell” he replied simply. “And I care about you too much to push you into something you’re not ready for.”

His words swelled in her heart, and for a moment she didn’t know what to say. She just sat there, in silence, looking at him and feeling more seen and more understood than she ever had before. She realized then that this – this trust, this understanding – was what love felt like. It wasn’t just the rush of excitement or the flutter of nerves. It was the steady unwavering support, the quiet patience and the acceptance of who she was, flaws and all.

Peacock looked back over the lake and took a deep breath. She felt lighter than she had in months and as she looked out over the lake and saw the setting sun painting the world in hues of pink and gold she knew that everything would be okay. They would be okay.

“I’m glad you’re here” she said, her voice full of emotion. “I don’t know what I’d do without you.”

He squeezed her hand back then. “You don’t have to find out.”

And as they continued their walk around the lake, hand in hand, Peacock knew that whatever came next, she would have one more person by her side. Oxford would be there, and that made her more than happy.

---

The hum of the bowling alley filled the air, a mix of rolling balls, the crash of pins and the chatter of people enjoying a night out. The neon lights cast a colorful glow over the lanes, adding to the lively atmosphere. Peacock and Oxford stood by their assigned lane, their shoes exhanged for the worn-in rentals.

Peacock stared down at the score screen, pretending to calculate how many pins she needed to knock down to catch up to Oxford’s lead. But her mind was far from the game. The secret she had been carrying for a few weeks now felt like it was growing heavier by the second, pressing against her heart with every breath she took.

She glanced back at Oxford, who was currently focused on the lane next to them where the players constantly knocked down all the pins. He didn’t look envious or like he was calculating what they did, he was just curious and seemed so calm and content in this moment. She loved how easy things felt with him, how special it felt to be with him, even in the most ordinary places. And yet, the thought of what she was about to tell him made her chest tighten with both excitement and fear.

I’m pregnant. The words echoed in her mind, but they were stuck somewhere deep in her throat. How would he react? Would he be happy? Shocked? They hadn’t planned for this, but she knew in her heart she wanted this. Wanted a life with him. A family.

But before she could find the courage to speak, Oxford set his ball down and turned to her, his expression unusually serious.

“Peacock” he said, his voice low, almost hesitant. “There’s something I need to talk to you about.”

Her heart skipped a beat, and she immediately braced herself. Did he know? Was he about to say what she was? But no, the look in his eyes was different. Focused, determined and tinged with uncertainty.

She forced a smile, trying to keep her voice steady. “What is it?”

Oxford took a deep breath, rubbing the back of his neck in that nervous way he did when he wasn’t sure how to start. “You know how I’ve been working on those coding projects in my spare time? And how I’ve always talked about wanting to do something more with it?”

Peacock nodded, her mind racing, trying to piece together where this was going. “Of course. You’ve always been good with computers, Oxford. I’ve seen you light up when you talk about it.”

He smiled at that, but it was fleeting, quickly replaced by a more serious expression. “Well, I’ve been applying to some programs, just to see what’s out there. And… I got accepted to one. A really good one. It’s for computer engineering, at a university in another town.”

Peacock’s breath caught in her throat. The words hung between them, heavy and loaded with implications. Another town. Far away from her, from them. She could see the conflict in his eyes, the way he was torn between excitement and fear of what it meant for their relationship.

“That’s amazing, Oxford,” she said, her voice soft but sincere. And she meant it. She was genuinely happy for him, proud of him for getting this opportunity. But she could also feel the cold edge of reality creeping in. If he went, things would change. Everything would change.

Oxford searched her face, looking for something—maybe a hint of what she was thinking, maybe reassurance. “But… I don’t know if I should go,” he admitted, his voice barely above a whisper. “I mean, what about us? What about you?”

She swallowed, the words she’d planned to say slipping away as she focused on him, on what he needed to hear. This was his dream, his chance to do something he loved, and she knew all too well what it felt like to have dreams tangled up in the obligations of life. She couldn’t, wouldn’t, be the reason he held back.

“You should go, Oxford,” she said gently, reaching out to take his hand. She could feel the slight tremble in his fingers, the uncertainty he was wrestling with. “This is a huge opportunity, and I know how much you want this. You’ve worked so hard for it.”

“But…” Oxford started, his voice wavering. He squeezed her hand as if trying to anchor himself to the moment. “What about us? I don’t want to leave you behind.”

Peacock’s heart ached at the sincerity in his words, the way he was already trying to balance his future with his feelings for her. But she knew what she had to do, even if it was difficult. “Oxford, I want you to go after your dream,” she said, her voice steady despite the emotions swirling inside her. “I know what it’s like to have someone—or something—stand in the way of what you really want, and I don’t want to be that for you. We’ll figure it out, whatever happens. But you can’t give this up.”

Oxford stared at her, his eyes searching hers for any sign of doubt. But all he found was her unwavering support, her belief in him. “You really mean that?” he asked, his voice full of wonder and a touch of sadness.

“I do,” she whispered, squeezing his hand tighter. “I believe in you, Oxford. And I believe in us. We can make this work if it’s what we both want.”

He let out a shaky breath, the tension easing from his shoulders as he leaned in closer, resting his forehead against hers. “You’re incredible, you know that? I don’t deserve you.”

Peacock’s heart swelled with love and pride, and she almost laughed at the absurdity of it all—of how she was about to tell him something that would change everything, and yet here they were, facing a different kind of change altogether.

But she didn’t tell him, not yet. There would be a better time, a moment when the excitement of his news wasn’t so fresh, when she could share her own with the certainty that he’d had time to process his. For now, she would let him have this moment, let him soak in the possibility of a future that he had earned, and she would be there for him, just as he had always been there for her.

“We’ll figure it out,” she repeated softly, her words a promise, a vow. “No matter what.”

Oxford smiled, the weight lifting from his features as he kissed her, a tender, grateful kiss that sealed the moment between them. And as they pulled back, the neon lights reflecting in their eyes, Peacock felt a sense of peace wash over her. This was just one step in their journey, and whatever came next, they would face it together.

Even if that meant waiting a little longer to share her own news, to reveal the new life that was already binding them in ways they hadn’t yet imagined.

Peacock needed several days to think about the things her mother had said about how others would take her place if she would step down and how that could escalate the crime scene in town, especially as the new leadership would be decided.

How was it that what seemed so easy was so hard? That wrong could be right if there was a worse wrong?

But what really upset Peacock was that her father had kept the truth for her all these years. He had known, he had claimed to be the good guy and to want to keep Peacock and her brother safe. But, in doing so, he had actually hurt her more.

“Why didn’t you say something? Do something?” Peacock demanded to know.

“I did. I stayed. I kept you safe. I gave you a normal childhood.”

Peacock snorted: “A normal childhood? Please dad, there was nothing normal about the way you and mom fought all the time. Do you even know how much that hurt Surf? Do you know how many times I’ve comforted him because you two couldn’t keep it together?”

“That was all for you. I wanted to you to get a chance at a lawful life.”

“You’re insane if you think you did anything to help! You were never there! Why didn’t you take us out of the house if you were so worried? Why didn’t you turn her in?”

Blizzard calmly took a bite of his food, he might not have been prepared for this talk but he had definitely spent much time thinking about it during the years. “It wasn’t that easy. I would have robbed you from your mother, and she had some quite powerful friends. If I tried to take you, I would have lost you.”

“You will lose us! I honestly understand why mom never said anything because she wanted us to choose our own life. But I can’t understand why you didn’t.” Peacock left her plate untouched and walked away. She would never forgive her mother, but she could understand her. As for her father, she would do neither.

Blizzard was so upset that his daughter had turned against him because of Marshmallow’s job, when all he ever wanted was to keep his kids away from that career. He never wanted kids in the first place. He hated kids. He had stepped in because it was needed, because they needed another role model and now that Peacock said that Marshmallow had been the better role model all along, he wondered if all of his life choices had been in vain.

All of the anger, sadness and hurt he felt was, as per usual, directed towards Marshmallow. It was all her fault. All of it.

“Sorry Blizz, if Peacock thinks you’ve failed her as a father it has nothing to do with me. That’s all on you. You’re responsible for the choices you’ve made.”

Marshmallow was not having it. All the fights they had had during the years had been because he disapproved of her work and yet he had stuck around. He always said he wanted to be the good parent, the good role model but Peacock was right. He had never been really there. Physically, yes. But not mentally. There hadn’t been a day in their life together where he had seemed to enjoy family life. Of course the kids had picked up on it.

“You said you would have taken the kids from me if I ever said anything!”

“Honestly, if you had wanted to run away with the kids I could never have stopped you. It would have been easy for you, but honestly – you never wanted to run away and raise them on your own. You barely wanted to be around at all.”

“That’s not true! I loved them! You’re right that I never wanted them, but once they were here I loved them. I did everything I did to keep them safe.”

Their argument escalated and soon they were standing up, fuming in each other’s faces. Blizzard was the one to shove first and Marshmallow didn’t back down. She never did.

In physical strength and fighting skills Blizzard had nothing on Marshmallow and she easily kicked his ass.

And that was it. After that fight, Blizzard was gone. He couldn’t stand sticking around to keep his kids safe when they despised him for it.

---

The sun was setting behind the business complex at the other end of the town and by the river that run by the Sprinkles house it was quiet and still, as always during this time of the day before the after-work joggers started coming by. Marshmallow and Peacock sat on one of the benches looking out over the river and listened to the simple rush of water.

It seemed peaceful and cozy but within Marshmallow was a storm of emotions. She had rarely been nervous in social situations before, but she also felt that the stakes had never been this high before. It was the first time she desperately wanted someone else to forgive her.

“So… I think I have a plan…” Marshmallow said tentatively. “Og how I can still keep my people in line without stopping your dream, I mean.”

Peacock turned to her mother, anger rising within her. She hadn’t forgiven her mother for lying to her and she hadn’t accepted the career that had provided for them her whole life either. Everything felt as a big betrayal.

“I understand that you hate this and I don’t blame you, but what I said before is still true. I wanted to keep you safe, and if I thought I could step off without endangering you or your brother or the rest of this town I would do it in a heartbeat if it meant you forgave me and felt better about pursuing your career. But I don’t think I can do it that easily.” Marshmallow paused, only briefly, because she was rather worried Peacock would just stop listening, before continuing:

“I think you should become a detective and I think you should do your very best to fight crime and criminals in this town. If that means catching me, I will let you. If I have time to slowly back off without it affecting you, I will. Whatever happens, I won’t be in your way.”

Deciding to step down or give up had been both easy and impossibly hard. Marshmallow still loved the thrills of crime and she still had ranks to gain, but after much thinking she had decided her own career was no longer worth risking her child for. No matter how much she enjoyed the life that had come her way, she loved her children more.

Besides, she was rather sure it would take some time until Peacock had risen enough in her detective career to be involved in any cases surrounding herself. There would be time to fulfill any dreams she still had while not standing in the way of her daughter. And hopefully, there was time to secure a leadership in the gang that wouldn’t leave the town in a war of power.

In then end, deciding that her daughter’s dreams were now more important than her own had, actually, been quite easy. It was time to leave her legacy in someone else’s hands and start thinking about slowing down.

---

A while later Peacock decided to host a party to celebrate the graduation of her and her friends. Lots of berries of all colors filled their little house. If the reputation of her mother’s job was indeed spread among her friends it was nothing that affected how all of these people felt about Peacock.

During their school years she had sometimes been called Queen Pea, not without reason. She had been adored by everyone for her kindness and honesty.

Princess Daikon had never been a close friend, but it didn’t matter to Peacock. Anyone could become a friend and she invited them all. Besides, Princess had also her eyes set on a Detective career so they both thought they might soon spend more time together.

Seeing all these berries in the crowded place, Princess raised her voice to be heard over the music: “Queen Pea! You should expand this house if you plan on fitting all your friends in here in the future!”

Peacock laughed. She was right. This house was a bit too small to host parties of this size. There wasn’t even places for everyone to sit.

“Yea, I will eventually” she said, knowing very well that she never wanted to stop inviting her friends over. She was her very happiest when she had friends around.

The love for her friends, and the need of a steady flow of socializing was what made Peacock ask Canary to move in with them. With Blizzard gone, it felt as though there was room for one more. Canary accepted without hesitation – she couldn’t imagine anything better than living together with her best friend.

It had been neither easy nor quick to come to terms with the fact that her mother had kept the truth about her criminal career from Peacock her entire life. Realizing everyone around her had known about it whereas she had been clueless herself definitely made her feel like an idiot. Alas, here they were.

Peacock had always looked up to her mother. She had been proud about how capable she was. You needed a good meal cooked? Her mother could do it. The toilet broke again? Her mother would fix it. You needed a good joke to lighten your mood? Her mother would deliver one. You needed to get your ass kicked in chess or video games? Yup, her mother would never hold back. Also, her mother would kick most people’s asses if needed – she was that strong. The problem was that kicking people’s asses was exactly what her mother had been doing all the time. Without letting Peacock know. Could she forgive her?

Peacock had always been social and talkative and everyone around her seemed to like her. She had definitely been one of the more popular girls at school, but in contrast to many other popular peers, Peacock’s popularity wasn’t based on pushing others down or intimidating people – she was simply a very likeable person who cared about others. She believed in doing the right things, even when they were difficult and she believed in being kind. It had given her many friends throughout her teen years, and she believed truly and fully that one could never have too many friends.

Peacock had, much like her mother, never been much of a planning type. She often acted on impulse and had a tendency to follow her whims rather than plan ahead. Therefore, she hadn’t really thought about her future career until the counsellor at school suggested she’d make a great detective being so honest, likeable and hard-working. As she heard it, it definitely seemed as a great career choice and ever since she couldn’t stop thinking about how exciting it would be to help keep the town safe. Her only problem was that apparantly her own mother was one of the biggest criminal problems this town had – how would she combine her loyalty to her family with her career choice?

To figure it out, she would need to actually plan ahead. That would be something new and fresh, but she believed her friends would help and guide her in this new chapter of her life.