Never Not You

New Year Preparations

A/N: this is just a small filler because i couldn't figure out how i wanted christmas so i thought i'd give you some new years before they continue with the baby process but this isn't all you're getting for new years, the party and "after-party" will be in either one seperate or two seperate chapters from this

The Christmas season had come and gone in a blur of joy, laughter, and presents. The house was still littered with bits of wrapping paper and half-empty gift boxes, a testament to how thoroughly Mateo had been spoiled. It seemed like everyone, from family to friends, had showered him with love and gifts. There were plush toys, clothes in every colour imaginable, and books that were already starting to line the shelves in his room. Mateo's first Christmas had been nothing short of magical—his giggles and wonder as he tore through the wrapping paper were enough to warm the hearts of everyone around him.

Aurora and Leah couldn't help but smile as they watched their son revel in the excitement of his first holiday season. There were moments where they would exchange glances, their hearts full of pride and gratitude for the little family they had built together. They knew their lives were changing, and with the upcoming meeting in Barcelona, everything felt even more real.

The meeting was set for the first week of January, and it was all they could think about. Their excitement was palpable—this was the step they had been waiting for in their journey to expand their family. The idea of a second child was something they had discussed, but now, as the meeting approached, it felt like a dream on the verge of becoming a reality.

Leah, ever the optimist, had been counting down the days, and the thought of finally taking that big leap was thrilling. "It's happening," Leah would often say to Aurora, a grin on her face as they discussed the logistics of the trip. The idea of flying to Barcelona, meeting with the donor agency, and finally starting the process to find a donor—it was surreal. But it was also exactly what they had been hoping for.

Mateo, of course, would be coming with them. It felt like a family adventure, even though they knew they would need to leave him with Alba and Eli during their meeting. Alba was more than happy to take Mateo for the day, along with Eli who was already eager to spend some time with her grandson. It was a relief for the couple, knowing that Mateo would be in such good hands while they focused on the meeting.

Before that, however, there was the New Year's Eve party. Leah and Aurora had been looking forward to it—the celebration with the England women's football team, both past and present, along with their guests. It was always a lively affair, filled with laughter, stories, and a chance to catch up with teammates and friends. Aurora, of course, would be Leah's guest, and the two of them were already planning their outfits, excited for a night of celebration before diving headfirst into the next chapter of their lives.

Leah's mum had taken Mateo that morning, giving the couple a rare, peaceful moment to focus on their own plans. They had the whole day to themselves, and it was a welcome break before the flurry of activities that New Year's Eve would bring. The house was quiet, and it allowed them to relax, talk about the future, and look forward to the meeting in Barcelona. It was a perfect way to end the year—surrounded by love, anticipation, and the knowledge that the next chapter was waiting just around the corner.

Aurora smiled at Leah. "This time next year, we'll have another little one running around," she said, her voice soft with excitement. Leah nodded, a wistful look in her eyes. "I can't wait."

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Leah's eyes sparkled with mischief as she turned to Aurora, a playful smirk on her lips. "So, what are you wearing tonight, Rory?"