Christmas Eve brought a little cheer to the Stark's diner.
Izzy, Alex, Francis and Camila were almost finished decorating the restaurant.
A big tree stood in a corner, with beautiful ornaments on it. A big angel with a star in his hand had been placed on the top.
Izzy pulled her brother to a table for a quick break.
"You know, this is going to be our first Christmas without mom, Larry and Mia."
"It is." agreed Camila. "It just doesn't feel right without them."
"And the others." said Alex. "I really feel bad for Macy, Paul, David and Davenport's families. I even feel sorry for Lara."
Francis sighed.
"They'll get through this. Life goes on and they will too. The first Christmas without a loved one is always the hardest. Once it's over, they'll start to heal."
There was a little, sad silence.
"So..." he said, trying to change the subject. "Who's coming for tonight's dinner? I want to make sure there's enough pie for everyone."