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In the aftermath of Lip's explosive outburst, I had taken on the role of a master of avoidance. The tactic had surprisingly proven effective. A week had drifted by, marked by my deliberate efforts to sidestep Lip's tumultuous energy. Tonight, Fiona had orchestrated a movie night the kids, and the prospect of a relaxing evening was a welcome respite--a chance to shelve my troubles momentarily.
Nimbly, I distributed snacks and drinks, ensuring everyone was comfortably settled before I sank down beside Ian. A handful of popcorn found its way into my mouth, the familiar taste offering a hint of normalcy. Carl's inquiry broke through the air as Fiona handed him a bowl of popcorn. His innocent query carried a hilariously straightforward tone. "Are you gonna make a baby while we watch Cosmos? Cause that's gonna make me throw up." His query, born from V's earlier statement about Steve joining us, brought a collective chuckle to the room.
Fiona couldn't help but play along, her laughter weaving through the space. "Billions and billions of sperm!" She chimed, wiggling her fingers playfully. Carl swatted her hand away with exaggerated disgust. "Ew!"
Lip's familiar impatience punctuated the air, demanding the movie's commencement. His annoyance was shared by Ian, who leaned in with an empathetic nod. "Yeah, got work to wrap up," He mentioned, eliciting a pout from me. "Don't leave me stranded here," I playfully whined. A roll of his eyes gave way to a comforting smile, reassuring me that I wasn't entirely alone in this crowded room.
Fiona finally turned her attention to the TV, and the movie's grow illuminated the room. Steve's timely entrance prompted a sigh of relief from Fiona. He settled beside me on the couch, a familiar smile playing on his lips. "Hey," he greeted Fiona, his tone affectionate.
Fiona leaned in, their affection palpable. "Missed you, stranger," She replied, sealing her words with a kiss before she sat Liam on her lap to watch the movie. Carl, ever the comedic disrupter, couldn't resist in chiming in. "Get a room," He quipped, provoking laughter from both Steve and Fiona, who shook their heads at his jest.
Steve's attention shifted to Lip, situated across the living room with a beer in hand. His question held a sense of camaraderie, a shared understanding evident. "Oh, Lip, did you get the tickets?" Steve inquired, a casual exchange of information.
Lip nodded, the acknowledgement terse. "Uh, yeah, thanks," He muttered, a sip from his beer punctuating his response. A fresh beer exchanged hands between them, solidifying their connection. As the movie's narrative enveloped us, a comfortable rhythm settled in. All seemed well until Debbie's entrance shifted the atmosphere.
Leaning forward, I squinted at her, concern etched across my features. "Debs, everything okay?" My inquiry was met with her weary gaze, prompting Lip's more direct speculation. "Did dad have one too many again?" He interjected, his protective instincts on display.
I extended a gentle touch to Debbie's shoulder, attempting to offer solace. "You'll learn to tune it out, Debs," I murmured, hoping to provide some semblance of comfort.
