Matilda's Imagines

Best Christmas of All

The festive season had arrived, and the Matildas' training center was buzzing with excitement. Practices were lighter, and everyone was talking about their Christmas plans. Decorations hung on every available surface, and the team shared jokes and exchanged Secret Santa gifts in the locker room.

Y/n sat quietly in her corner, smiling as the others chatted about their plans.

"I'm flying home tomorrow," Caitlin said, tying her boots. "Mom's making her famous pavlova."

Kyra leaned back against the bench, grinning. "We're doing a big family barbecue—classic Aussie Christmas."

Alanna chimed in. "I'm heading to the coast with my folks. Can't wait for some beach cricket."

Y/n didn't say much, her hands fidgeting with the hem of her jersey.

"Y/n, what about you?" Kyra asked suddenly, her tone curious.

Y/n froze, her ADHD energy bubbling under the surface. "Oh, um... nothing too exciting. Just... you know, hanging out."

"Alone?" Kyra's voice was sharp, and the room grew quiet.

Mini, who had been tying up her hair, stopped mid-motion, her gaze snapping to Y/n. "What do you mean by 'hanging out,' sweetheart?"

Y/n shrugged, her voice barely above a whisper. "Just staying at the apartment. It's fine, really."

"Wait, you're not going home?" Caitlin asked, her brow furrowed.

Y/n avoided their eyes, feeling the weight of their stares. "I don't... I don't really have a home to go to."

Kyra's jaw dropped. "Y/n, why didn't you say anything?"

"It's no big deal," Y/n said quickly, her ADHD-fueled need to avoid confrontation kicking in. "I'm used to it."

Mini stood up, her face a mix of shock and concern. "Not a big deal? Y/n, Christmas isn't something you spend alone."

Y/n shrugged again, fidgeting. "I didn't want to bother anyone. You all have your families. I didn't want to get in the way."

Mini crossed the room and knelt in front of Y/n, placing a gentle hand on her knee. "Listen to me, sweetheart. You're not spending Christmas alone. You're coming with me to my family's house, no arguments."

Y/n's eyes widened. "What? Mini, I can't just—"

"Yes, you can," Mini interrupted firmly. "You're part of this family now. My family will love you, and you deserve to be surrounded by people who care about you."

"She's right," Kyra added, plopping down next to Y/n and throwing an arm around her shoulder. "You're stuck with us, kid. No more of this 'alone on Christmas' nonsense."

Alanna nodded. "And next year, we'll plan something with the whole team so you never have to think about being alone again."

Y/n blinked, overwhelmed by their support. "I... I don't know what to say."

Mini smiled softly. "Say yes, pack a bag, and get ready for a proper Christmas."

Mini's family welcomed Y/n with open arms. The house was warm and bustling with activity, filled with laughter, the smell of roast turkey, and the sight of colorful presents under the tree.

Y/n was hesitant at first, unsure how to fit into the lively group. But Mini's mom pulled her into the kitchen to help with baking, and Mini's nieces and nephews begged her to join their games. Before long, Y/n was laughing and playing like she'd been part of the family for years.

That night, as Y/n sat by the fire with a full belly and a heart bursting with gratitude, Mini wrapped an arm around her.

"How are you feeling, kiddo?" Mini asked softly.

Y/n leaned her head on Mini's shoulder. "This is the best Christmas I've ever had. Thank you, Mini."

Mini kissed the top of her head. "You're family now, Y/n. Always."

And for the first time in years, Y/n felt like she truly belonged.