The apartment was buzzing with laughter and cheers as friends from the station and a few familiar faces from Grey Sloan gathered for Max and Rustle's third birthday. Spider-Man decorations covered the walls, and a red velvet cake—courtesy of Carina—sat proudly at the center.
"Happy birthday to you..." the crowd sang as the boys grinned over flickering candles. Max, older by five minutes, proudly blew his out first, Rustle close behind with icing smeared across his face.
Maya snapped photos, eyes glowing with pride. She hadn't noticed Carina beside her until the Italian softly whispered, "They grow up so fast."
"God, don't remind me," Maya muttered, already dreading how quickly five would come.
"Mommy!" Max appeared with a fistful of cake while Rustle beamed beside him.
"I think they liked your cake," Maya laughed, hoisting both boys up with effort. "You're getting heavy."
"Presents, Mommy!" Rustle pointed toward the corner stacked high with brightly wrapped boxes.
As everyone gathered again, the boys gasped at their new rideable motorbikes—one blue, one red.
"Motorbic!" Rustle squealed.
"Thanks, Mommy!" Max and Rustle kissed her cheeks, and Maya's eyes shimmered. "Bella," Carina whispered, her voice thick with affection.
Later, with the guests gone and the boys watching Peppa Pig in superhero capes, Carina sat between them on the sofa. Maya leaned down, brushing her lips to Carina's ear, "Want something to eat?"
"I'm fine, Bella," Carina replied with a smile.
A moment later, Carina joined Maya in the kitchen, wrapping her arms around her waist. "Need help with coffee?" she teased, nipping at Maya's earlobe. Maya sighed, comforted and flustered all at once.
"You're always welcome here," Maya whispered, turning in Carina's embrace.
"Then let me help," Carina kissed her and grabbed the sugar.
As they prepared coffee, a question had been lingering too long in Maya's chest. "Carina... what are we?"
Carina paused, then smiled. "Two people going on amazing dates... very attracted to each other... and, yes, going somewhere."
Later, with the twins fast asleep in their brand-new race car beds—a gift from the station—Carina helped Maya carry them to bed. She kissed Rustle's forehead. "Buonanotte, bello." Maya mirrored the gesture, whispering a happy birthday.
Back in the living room, Carina reached for her coat. "It's late—I should go."
Maya stopped her. A kiss—slow, then deep—spoke volumes neither had dared say aloud.
"Thank you for coming," Maya said breathlessly.
Carina smiled, placing one last kiss on Maya's cheek before stepping into the night. "Goodnight, Bella."
Maya stood by the door a moment longer, heart full and quiet.
Every time Carina touched her, she felt safe. And she never wanted that feeling to leave.
YOU ARE READING
Baby bishops
Short StoryMaya is a single mum to two amazing little boys, Rustle and Max Bishop. Can she do it on her own though? What happens when an appointment at Grey sloan turns into more?
