Beth pulled the roast chicken out of the oven, it sizzled and the kitchen instantly filled with the sweet aroma. Behind, Mia and Aaron were giggling away as they tackled the roast vegetables, potato, sweet potato and carrots. Beth seasoned the chicken once more before putting it back in the oven. Standing behind her daughter and her boyfriend, who clearly adored each other, Beth put my arms around them both, kissing Mia on the cheek gently and then Aaron on his cheek. “Great job kids...” Beth murmured, stepping back and scooping up three year old Jesse, who was playing on the floor with his trucks and giving him a cuddle.
Christmas had always been a tradition in the household. Dating back to years ago, when Neil and Beth had sought refuge in Rio after everything went so badly. Now every year, a homemade meal is always cooked, even the year Beth was heavily pregnant with Jesse and Aaron helped immensely with the cooking.
This year was a sign of growth, with Ryan and Mellie now with their own families, four less spots were at the table. Mia in their place had invited her and Aaron’s close friends, Sawyer, Nikos, Jade & Jasper to join us.
After a few hours of cooking, Beth had Aaron rally everyone to the table, Mia helped Jesse to his seat (and he insisted on sitting next to her friend Nikos). The kids all buzzed with excitement, chattering away about all the presents that they had received. Beth took a seat next to her husband, and gave him a gentle kiss on the cheek. ‘Merry Christmas, my love.’ She whispered, squeezing his hand.
It was good to be home for Christmas.
