Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

I'll be fine and dandy
Lord it's like a hard candy Christmas
I'm barely getting through tomorrow
But still I won't let
Sorrow bring me way down

- "Hard Candy Christmas" by Dolly Parton

Cathy’s little farmhouse kitchen was a hub of Christmas cheer, as three busybodies moved about. The smell of cinnamon rolls coming out of the oven was hot and made Kate’s mouth water as she finished packing the last of the blanket donations. Tyler came in and collected another box, his jacket and hat dusted with snow. Mama began to pack up the cinnamon rolls into some containers, then began pouring some coffee into travel mugs. 

“Think we’ve got enough?” Kate asked one more time, as Tyler picked up a box labeled mittens and hats. 

“More than enough,” Tyler reassured her, giving her a wink. “Sapulpa really came through. Not to mention the monetary donations from the link we posted.”

He stepped back outside, letting in a brief and bitter cold before the door slammed shut again. Mama set down the tupperware of rolls and the fully made coffees on the table and reached out to rub Kate’s shoulder. 

“This is a good thing you’re all doin’,” Cathy hummed. “They’ll appreciate anythin’ you can give.”

The idea to help Clearbrook, a sleepy little Oklahoma town that had been hit very late in the season by an EF-3, came about one night in early December. They’d gone out to help initially and got a lot done, but Tyler had been messaged by Dexter, who relayed that the town was still struggling to get back on its feet after the disaster. A lot of folks were still in FEMA housing and their lives had been all but upended. The town used to celebrate Christmas with a special town wide event at their little square, but they were hardly in a position to do so with so many scars left behind. 

Eventually, they had come into contact with a woman from Clearbrook named Sage Matthews. She ran a community center there and was overjoyed to hear that they wanted to come help. She had confessed that the town was really struggling to find joy in the season; insurance claims were slow, donations had dwindled after the initial quick aid, and Christmas was starting to feel like an afterthought for a lot of the families in temporary housing. 

The Wranglers had all gone their own ways for the holidays - so they all started a drive in their respective locations. Kate and Tyler set up a donation box wherever they could and the online link for donations, posted by their channel, had reeled in a ton of help from all over the country. Blankets, hats, gloves, scarfs, non-perishables for the pantry, were the essentials they were bringing. It quickly turned into a toy drive as well for the children of Clearbrook who have been having a less than magical Christmas. 

With the day itself only a few days away, they were making a trip to Clearbrook until Christmas Eve to help hand out donations, clear some more debris, set up the town square and at Sage’s request, have the Christmas celebration that the townsfolk so needed. The Wranglers would be meeting them in Clearbrook with their own donations and helping for a day or two. 

Kate turned to give Cathy a hug as Tyler came back inside, stomping his boots on the mat. “Thanks, Mama,” she whispered. “We’ll be home for Christmas.”

“With bells on,” Tyler added, coming close to steal Cathy’s hug after Kate let go. She slapped him on the back and pushed some of Kate’s hair out of her eyes. 

“Don’t rush now,” Mama told them. “Do some good and get back when you can. I’m proud of you both.”

“Love you,” Kate hugged her once more before taking up the cinnamon rolls and coffee. Tyler grabbed the box of blankets and together, they braved the cold. Sapulpa had been hit by a bit of a squall the past few days and though there wasn’t much on the ground to show for it, it was blustery and cold enough. 

The truck’s rigging was lined with tarp that Tyler had ziptied and bungee corded all together. He had loaded the bed with dozens of boxes and totes. Not to mention the food and donations in the backseat as well. Kate climbed up front, her nose burning with the cold. She set the rolls on the middle console and their coffees in the cup holders. Tyler loaded the last box and climbed up inside with her. He had already been running the heat and she sighed against the seat blissfully as warm air warmed her already-cold fingers. 

“You got the extra decorations right?” Kate checked. “The extension cords?”

Tyler nodded. “We’ve got it all, Sapulpa. Even that Santa suit I promised.”

“So you’re really gonna wear it? Don’t you think the kids will notice that - well, you’re not some old, round guy?”

“Hey, there’s lots of versions of Santa,” he grinned ear to ear. “Just you wait. They’re gonna love it.”

“You just wait,” she replied back. “You’ll have every baby there in tears.”

“Ye of little faith,” Tyler shook his head as he pulled the truck down the driveway and onto the road. The scenery looked a bit different than normal as the wind blew powdery snow across the road in swaths of thin white. It wasn’t quite like the snow they probably get up north - but it was enough to be pretty for Christmas. 

Clearbrook was roughly an hour and a half northwest of Sapulpa, a small, tight-knit town tucked into the rolling plains. Before the storm, it had been the kind of place where everyone knew each other, where families gathered in the square for barbecues, parades, and seasonal festivals. But when an EF-3 tornado tore through in late November, the town was left reeling. Homes were flattened, businesses destroyed, and the community was left scrambling to recover before winter truly set in.

Even now, weeks later, the scars of the storm were evident. Standing houses stripped bare, foundations left where others had once stood, and scattered debris were stark reminders of the devastation. FEMA trailers had sprung up on the outskirts of town, providing temporary shelter for families displaced by the storm, but much of the town’s spirit still seemed buried beneath the rubble.

Kate and Tyler had first encountered Clearbrook on a supply run organized in the immediate aftermath of the storm. The Wranglers had been chasing the storm that came through and hadn’t been in time to tame it. They’d brought water, tarps, and other essentials, joining volunteers to clear debris and distribute aid. It was there they met Sage Matthews, a young woman who ran the town’s community center. Despite the loss of her own home, Sage had been working tirelessly to support her neighbors, organizing what little resources they had and advocating for donations to keep the town afloat. She’d later reached out through their socials, tagging them in a heartfelt post. Boone had seen it first, calling the team together to discuss how they could help further. Sage’s message had been clear: though Clearbrook was grateful for the initial aid, the town needed more than supplies. They needed hope.

“Christmas has always been the best time of year here,” Sage had told them over a video call, her voice warm despite the weariness in her eyes. “We usually have lights in the square, wagon rides, the whole deal. But this year . . . most people can’t even afford a tree, let alone decorations or presents. It’s been hard to see the kids so down, especially after everything they’ve lost.”

That conversation had sparked the idea for the Christmas drive. Tyler, Kate, and the rest of the Wranglers had thrown themselves into the effort, rallying their communities and using their platform to bring in donations from all over the country. What started as a simple collection of essentials had grown into something much bigger: not just providing for the town’s immediate needs, but with the goal of hopefully restoring some normalcy and joy. 

The time passed swiftly. An hour and half under their belt, they’d drank their coffee and ate their breakfast and talked about whatever came to mind. As they drove on, the plains opened up before them, the winter light casting long shadows across the landscape. The closer they got to Clearbrook, the quieter the roads became, and soon, the familiar scars of the tornado began to appear. When a town sign, half askew, showed up on the road, Kate felt a swell of anticipation. “I hope this goes well.”

He grinned, his eyes glinting with warmth. “Anythin’ counts, Sapulpa,” he reminded her. 

When they reached the town limits, Kate leaned forward, peering out the windshield. “It’s still so . . .” She trailed off, the words catching in her throat.

Tyler nodded, his jaw tightening. The devastation was still raw—piles of debris lined the streets, and many houses were reduced to little more than skeletons. A few residents were out shoveling snow or securing tarps over damaged roofs, their movements slow and tired.

“Looks like they’ve been through hell,” Tyler said softly.

“Yeah.” Kate’s voice was barely above a whisper. It made her heart ache with each thump in her chest. 

The community building was a stout little brick building, one of the few that seemed built to withstand the storm that had hit. The sight of Sage waiting for them brought a flicker of light to the otherwise somber scene. She waved them over, bundled in a thick coat and scarf, her breath puffing white in the chilly air. She was a young woman, with brunette hair that curled around her freckled face. Her blue eyes were alight with excitement. 

“Welcome back!” Sage called, her smile genuine despite the exhaustion etched into her face.

Tyler parked the truck and climbed out. “Good to see you, Sage. Hope you’re ready—we brought half of Sapulpa’s good wishes with us.”

Kate joined him, her arms full of blankets grabbed from the back seat. “And the Wranglers will be here soon with even more. We’re here to help with whatever you need.”

Sage’s eyes glistened as she stepped forward to take a box from Tyler. “You have no idea how much this means to us. Thank you—for everything.”

Kate smiled, feeling a spark of hope. “Let’s get to work.”

Sage ran inside with her box and with her, came more helpers. She introduced each one as they came to gather boxes and donations. Ruby and her husband, George, were an older couple who’d been here for their entire lives and their families, generations before. They helped fold the blankets and set them up on a table. 

The toys were being organized by a few young teen boys, Gray, Jonah, and Deshaun. 

“Coach said we could get volunteer hours towards our varsity jackets,” Gray explained sheepishly, shaking his head of shaggy blond hair. 

“Don’t let them give you all that bluster,” Ruby had croaked with amusement. “They’ve been here helping since we got started.” 

The three boys' cheeks reddened and they tried to look humble. Tyler smirked and gave them each a high five, before they moved onto the next table. The last group was a boisterous bunch of ladies. Sage introduced Margie, the local librarian, Dolly, the leading lady of a book club, and Henretta, president of the knitting club. Each of them had worked hard for days to knit several scarves, mittens, and hats - Kate was nearly certain that they also made the baked goods that were wrapped and ready on a nearby folding table. 

“Isn’t he just the most handsome thing you’ve seen?” Margie gushed, swatting her ladies on the arm. “Oh my lord.” 

“He looks like a cowboy off your romance novels, Margie,” Dolly hooted. 

“Girl, he’s not just a picture! He’s right here in front of us,” Henretta whispered sharply to the other girls. 

Kate watched with unbridled amusement as Tyler, ever the charmer, tipped his hat. But she didn’t miss the blush creeping its way onto his ears and along his neck. His voice gave no sign of bashfulness but Kate knew they’d gotten to him. 

“Thank you, ladies,” he grinned. “Just here to help.” 

They made their way back towards the cold outside to collect more stuff from the truck. Kate nudged Tyler as Sage moved ahead of them and whispered, “Got yourself a nice new demographic of fangirls, huh?” 

Tyler smirked cheekily and threw an arm around her shoulder. “Hey, nothin’ wrong with appreciatin’ some fine craftsmanship.” 

He gestured towards his body and Kate smacked him. “Why? Jealous, Sapulpa?” 

“They can have you,” Kate laughed. “They can knit and bake. I know my limits.”

As they were unloading some more boxes, the sound of cars pulling up caught their attention. Kate peered over the truck’s hood to see a few vehicles pulling in. Boone and Lily were together in Boone’s van, while Dani and Dexter were in the RV.

Sage smiled. “Is that the rest of your team?”

Kate nodded as Tyler hurried to greet them. “They’re bringing in more from their own hometowns.”

Sage covered her mouth with a gloved hand, her eyes shining. “Oh. I can’t even begin to thank y’all enough.”

Kate gave her a gentle pat on the shoulder. “No need. We’re more than happy to help.”

Each of them approached with a big box in their arms. They were bundled up, though Boone had shorts on and Dexter looked like a man allergic to the cold with his thick fluffy scarf and woolen hat. Javi hadn’t been able to come along - since his family lived all the way down in Florida, he’d not been able to get a flight out before Christmas. Instead, he’d sent monetary donations he’d collected as well as some software to help the town out with quicker storm detection. 

“I sent it to the vocational school not far out of town,” Javi explained. “The computer science teach there, Mr. Warren, he’s pretty well-known for his involvement with the local weather collection. If anyone in Clearbrook could handle that setup, it's him. There’s instructions for the software and the required sensors. I advanced them a bit of Wrangler data to give them a bit of a head start.”

“Thanks, Javi,” Kate had replied warmly. “This will make a huge difference for them. And I know you’d be here if you could. Enjoy your Christmas, alright?”

Javi had let out a soft grunt of frustration. “My gram won’t stop feeding me. You’ll have to roll me back to Oklahoma. Listen, keep me updated though, aight?”

Kate had agreed readily. She was drawn back to the team members at hand as they made a half circle around her and Sage. 

“You guys remember Sage from our call,” Tyler gestured towards her with one arm. “There’s a whole crew inside ready to help too.”

“Including Tyler’s new lady friends,” Kate added teasingly. 

Tyler shot her a playfully warning look, while Boone grinned. “You work quick, brother.”

“I hate to rush this,” Dexter chattered through his teeth. “But maybe we could move this conversation inside?”

Once they had moved inside with the boxes they could carry, they dropped them off at their proper locations before roping the teen boys into helping unload the rest. Before dinner time, the main room was full of various centers for the drive. There were several tables of clothing, with even more in boxes placed under the tables. Someone had brought a rack and they were able to hang some jackets and scarves. Another section was sectioned off in a smaller room - it was full of toys, wrapping paper, and Christmas bags. It was intended as a Santa’s Workshop, for parents who wanted to give their children some joy for the season. Finally, there was the pantry section. They had portioned out some bags of non-perishables and some people from the local Baptist church were bringing food for a potluck as people came through. They filled the remainder of the space with tables and chairs for anyone looking to sit and eat. Decorations lined the windows and they had a plastic tree set up in an empty corner with pet necessities that had also been donated for those who needed it.

Kate sat down at one of the tables, feeling tired but content with the work they did. She watched as Tyler attempted to politely listen to Margie, Dolly and Henretta as they cooed over him. Kate was pretty sure she witnessed an actual pinch to his cheek. 

Dani shook her head from her place next to Kate. “Should we rescue him?”

“Come on, how often does he get flustered?” Lily grinned. “Let him flounder a little.”

They watched as his ears practically glowed scarlet. 

Boone whistled. “Think they’re talkin’ dirty?”

Kate laughed. “They already compared him to one of those dime romance novels.”

“The ones with the shirtless guys and a busty blond on their arms?” Dani grinned shamelessly. “Man, we could make a real buck or two if we did him up like that. Windblown flannel, sweaty chest, the whole deal.”

Dexter shook his head with exasperation. “He gets more than enough attention just showing up on a YouTube video.”

“Tornado Wranglers calendar then,” Boone grinned. “Come on, we can all be in it. The numbers would go through the roof.”

“Only if you do pin-up,” Lily teased him, reaching out to pull his hat over his eyes. “You’d kill Mr. February.”

He pulled his hat back up, face serious as he pointed at her and said, “Don’t even test me. You know I ain’t too big to wear booty shorts.”

Tyler was side-eyeing Kate, signaling for help. She merely rested her chin on her hand and gave him an impish smile. But Tyler’s admirers became distracted when the center’s doors opened and Gray, Jonah and Deshaun came through carrying several boxes of pizza and two liters. 

“Heroes,” Boone exclaimed, before pushing up to go help set out plates. 

Tyler escaped the ladies and came to sit next to Kate, letting out a heavy breath. “I’m pretty sure I was gettin’ close to bein’ kidnapped and held hostage in the library.”

“Aww,” Kate hummed, reaching up to pinch gently at his cheek. “They were probably having the time of their lives, you know.”

“Yeah, yeah,” Tyler grumbled. He turned to look more closely at her, as if gauging her reaction. “I suppose I am quite the looker. They can’t help it.” 

She smacked him playfully, but couldn’t find the words to disagree with him and his those dimples. As there was a call for eating, they all got up and enjoyed some pizza. As the evening wore on, Sage came over to their table with a clipboard in hand.

“You guys have done so much today,” she praised warmly. “Just the donations alone in addition to what we’ve received in the mail has been so helpful and will be so monumental to the community. Would I be able to trouble some of you tomorrow to head out and help my husband with some debris clearance near the neighborhood and school? He’s part of the township and the rest of the workers will be working on salting roads.”

Tyler gave her a nod. “Of course.”

“The rest of you can help wherever,” Sage waved a hand. “We already have our sign up sheet filled for community volunteers, but you’re welcome to find room anywhere.” 

Kate gave her a smile. “We’ll make sure to pitch in wherever we’re needed.”

“Thank you,” Sage let out a breath, looking like she could finally relax a little. “It’s been a long day. Let me finish packing up here and I can lead you guys over to my house. I’ve got accommodations there for you.”

As Sage walked away to finish grabbing her things, Kate exchanged a look with the rest of the Wranglers. Usually, when they stayed somewhere without a motel, they usually just crowded in their own RV. But it wasn’t ideal - the RV was dingy and didn’t have a hookup for the bathroom, which often led to inconvenience. Not to mention it only had the upper bed above the cab, the couch and a set of bunks in the back. It wasn’t quite roomy enough for everyone. 

By the time they’d finished helping clean up, the night had become chillier and the walk to the trucks left Kate’s bare hands red and cold. Tyler started up the truck and she couldn’t get enough of the heat. He reached out and snatched one of her hands from the vent and massaged it with one hand while steering with the other. 

“My little popsicle,” He said fondly, kissing her hand. 

“Shut up,” she grumbled. 

She got cold very easily in any month that wasn’t summer. Often, their bedtimes during these months were filled with him trying to fend her off as she climbed his legs with her frozen toes. Luckily, he was always warm and despite his initial discomfort, always willing to share it with her. 

He followed after Sage’s SUV and the rest of the Wranglers trailed after, snow swirling up on the road. Luckily, it was mostly powdery and dry, keeping the roads from being slick.

It didn’t take too long to reach a nice little place on the edge of town. There were a few things in the yard to hint at some sort of damage - tarp-covered piles of roofing materials, a lift of some sort, a bit of ground damage where perhaps a tree had been. But otherwise, her house seemed mostly untouched. For a moment, Kate wondered if Sage suffered from guilt too - did she help so fervently because she lost so little? But Kate couldn’t truly know and she refused to be presumptuous. 

Sage pulled up next to the house and next to the garage was a large, sleek RV. It hummed with life, lights on inside. Once they were out of the vehicles, she led them to the camper. 

Inside, it was very spacious and warm. They kicked off their shoes to keep from getting snow everywhere and Sage gestured towards the entirety of it.

“We were very glad we bought this a year ago. We’re big on camping and with three kids, we needed the space,” Sage rubbed at her arms. “We had a bit of damage from a tree falling on the house after the storm. We stayed out here until we could get the roof fixed. But it’s all hooked up and ready to go for you. There’s hot water, snacks in the cupboard and fridge, and I believe enough beds for all of you. There’s the pullout couch, the table folds down into a bed, two bunks and a large queen up that step there. The bathroom is that little door in the hall there.” 

They stared in awe - it was cozy and warm and would work perfectly for the time they were staying. 

“I know it might be a bit cramped for six adults,” Sage began, a bit uncertain. 

“No, no, this is perfect,” Tyler said appreciatively. “Better than most places we stay.” 

Sage brightened. “Okay. My husband, Shepherd, he’ll be leaving around seven. I’ll be going to the center at eight. I’ll see you all tomorrow.” 

They said their good nights and Sage stepped back out into the cold to her house. Once the door was shut, the Wranglers flopped down to the nearest surfaces. 

“A beautiful little town,” Dexter commented, settling hard onto the couch. “They’ve got some very helpful people.” 

“Yeah,” Dani added. “I’m not sure how much they really needed us. They seem to be great at encouraging one another.” 

“Regardless if they need us,” Kate piped up. She leaned against the kitchenette counter, holding her hands in front of a warm vent. “We can at least keep providing whatever means they need.”

There was a hum of agreement. 

“We should call Javi,” Kate added. “He will want to get an update.” 

Boone raised his hand from his place on the other end of the couch. “I got it.”

Tyler disappeared with their bags towards the bedroom while Dexter began to organize the blankets they had on the lower bunk. The phone rang on speaker for a few moments before a groggy voice sounded.

“Yeah?”

“Javi, it’s literally only nine,” Dani replied into Boone’s phone. “How did we wake you up?” 

“It’s ten here,” Javi groaned. 

“Still.” 

“Listen, you spend more than five minutes with my family and then we’ll talk.” 

“Hey,” Kate chipped in. “We’re in Clearbrook. We haven’t talked to that teacher yet, but hopefully we’ll see him tomorrow. We’ve got all the donations set up for the drive and then tomorrow night is Christmas on the square.” 

“Good,” Javi sounded a little more awake now. “It’s cold there, yeah?”

“Bitterly,” Lily replied. “I’m sure it’s hot down there.” 

“Eighty something today,” Javi answered with a teasing tone. “Listen, I’m sorry I’m not there but also, enjoy your cold weather. I am perfectly fine where I’m at.” 

“Alright snowbird,” Boone rolled his eyes. “Enjoy Disney World or whatever.”

“Boone, I told you that Florida isn’t just Disney World,” Javi shot back, his tone indicating a weariness of an argument long fought. 

From the hallway, Tyler called, “Javi, that’s like tellin’ a kid there’s no Santa Claus. You know Boone doesn’t know any better.”

Boone let out a huff. “I know Universal is there too.”

“Oh wow,” Javi’s voice dripped with sarcasm. “ Another theme park.”

As they prepared to fall into a playful squabble, Kate rolled her eyes. “Good night , Javi.”

Her words brought on a chatter of goodnights and love-yous. Boone hung up and they all began to move towards choosing a bed. Dexter was already hunkered down on the bottom bunk, reading from a book he’d pulled from his backpack. Boone bounded across the room and using the edge of Dexter’s bed, launched himself into the top bunk. Dani began to fold down the table bed while Lily pulled out the couch. Satisfied that they were done for the night, Kate walked down the small hallway past the bunks and up the two steps to the queen bed. 

Tyler was already sprawled across the comforter, scrolling on his phone and donning a simple white shirt and boxer shorts. Kate grabbed her pajamas from her bag and hurried to the empty bathroom before anyone else could claim it. She got ready for bed and changed into her warm pajamas. The bathroom was significantly colder than the rest of the RV and her hands and now bare feet hadn’t recovered yet from earlier.  She ran back up the two stairs and playfully jumped onto the bed next to Tyler. 

He immediately put his phone down and turned on his side to face her, but she had no time for his antics. She yanked at the covers under him, grunting. “Get up . I’m cold.”

He didn’t budge, a smirk growing on his face as he watched her fight his weight on the covers. He stretched out even more. “I don’t know, I’m pretty comfortable.”

“Ty- ler ,” She glared at him, pushing him in the rib cage to try and roll him off the bed. “If you don’t let me under those blankets right now, I will go sleep with the girls and leave you here to sleep, alone.”

“You’re bluffing,” Tyler leaned his head back, dimples deepening. “I’m the hottest body in this camper. You wouldn’t dare.” 

“Try me,” she warned but her teeth were practically chattering. 

“I’ll share,” he drawled slowly. “But I’m gonna need a kiss.” 

“God, you’re an asshole,” she grumbled, leaning in to smoosh a quick kiss to his cheek. But he turned and captured her properly. It was warm and slow and entirely too smug on his end. When she pulled away, he looked like he’d won the lottery. 

“Now, was that so bad?” 

“Scoot,” she snapped as he relinquished his body weight on the blankets. It was all a big tease - she knew he would have let her under if she’d been serious and he knew she was only being half-heartedly grumpy. 

As soon as she was under the covers, the shift from playfulness to comfort was instant. He pulled her close immediately, her head tucking under his chin and his arms wrapping snugly around her waist. She took advantage of his closeness and hitched her legs up over his waist. She tilted her feet to press them against the back of his calf and he let out a yelp.

“Holy hell, woman!” He tried to push her legs off him but she held fast. “Get your ice cube feet off of me!” 

She laughed, clinging to him tighter as he squirmed. “Nope. You said you were the hottest body here. Time to prove it cowboy.” 

He wrestled with her, trying to dislodge her arms from around his middle. She pressed her feet behind his knees and he managed to snag a wrist from behind him. 

“Stop wiggling,” he grunted, laughter rumbling in his chest as he tried to wrest her from him. He held one of her wrists with one hand and reached around to try and grab an ankle that was hooked along his leg. “You need better goddamn boots for Christmas.” 

She bit down on a shriek as he wrapped a hand around his goal and the struggle caused them to shift a tad in the bed. A spring in the mattress popped and creaked. Tyler’s hand released for a moment and Kate pulled her knees up to swiftly press her feet against his stomach where his shirt had ridden up. The skin there was deliciously warm and soft, but he jumped and tensed like a feral cat. Any sense of quiet was lost when Tyler let out a yelp so loud that they both froze. 

They were met with an immediate shout from Dani. “Hey! What the hell is going on back there?” 

“For the record, I really don’t want to know,” Dexter interjected.

“Nothin’ like good ol’ charity to get y’all in the mood, huh?” Boone snorted. “Heathens.”

Kate couldn’t help the laugh that burst past her lips and she lowered her feet. Tyler pushed some hair back out of her face and called out, “Y’all can relax, we just had some cold feet issues.” 

“Cold feet,” Lily huffed. “Sounds like a you problem.” 

“Keep it down, lovebirds or I’m gonna crank the AC,” Dani added. “I know those old ladies got you all hot and bothered, Ty, but don’t take it out on us.” 

Kate stifled her giggles into the blanket and Tyler shot back, “Keep up the teasin’ and we’ll test out the headboard.” 

There was a stunned silence that followed, broken only by Kate letting out a gasp and smacking Tyler’s chest. “Sorry guys,” she yelled. “Go to sleep. We’ve got a big day tomorrow.” 

There were a few disgruntled noises but she thought she heard some more chuckles from Boone somewhere. As the lights disappeared from the other end of the camper, Kate turned back to Tyler to find his smug smile gone. It was replaced by one that admired and appreciated and adored.

“Alright, Sapulpa,” he murmured. “Come here.”

He welcomed her back into his arms and instead wrapped his upper leg over hers. Now warmly tucked into the curve of his body, she hummed and pushed her nose against the hollow of his neck. His head jerked back at the contact and he let out another yelp, this time muffled as best he could. 

“Kate!” 

She laughed against his shirt, chasing his heat. “My personal hot water bottle.”

“We’re gonna have to start de-thawing you sooner,” Tyler grumbled, though his hand splayed against her lower back and brought her closer. His voice was too fond to be serious. 

A comfortable quiet filled the RV. Kate let her body fully settle against him, familiar with all his planes and edges. His breath was slowing against her hair and she felt her own wakefulness slipping. 

Tomorrow would be busy - she didn’t know how much they’d see of one another once they tackled their respective jobs. Tyler would likely take Boone and Dani out to help with debris clearing. Kate would meet Sage with Lily and Dexter at the Drive and help get that started. But they would be standing side by side with people aching to reclaim their lives and their town. Kate looked forward to it. 

Tyler’s arm tightened around her and he murmured something unintelligible. She smiled and soothed a hand over his chest, breathing in the scent of him. He was so familiar, like home, and she longed to bring that feeling back to the people of Clearbrook. The people deserved to feel whole again.

The wind howled outside and Kate nestled ever closer, her eyelids fluttering shut as she fell asleep. 

-

The parking lot of the community center was bustling by eleven. With the event running from ten until one, the townspeople were eager to come get supplies, help out and enjoy one another’s company. Sage was like a hummingbird, flitting all over the place. Kate got to meet her three kids - the eldest, Rowan, was helping wrap in the toy room. He was quiet and sweet, with a freckled face and big blue eyes that spoke of soft empathy. Her middle child, Opal, was playing with other kids brought along in one of the empty rooms, where some women switched on and off babysitting. She was a wild thing, with curly dark hair and a loud laugh. And finally, Kate held little Dawn, a fair-haired baby with the biggest eyes and the sleepiest smile. 

Kate had been helping with the food pantry, but when she saw Sage struggling to keep Dawn happy as well as run around fielding various questions or issues, Kate offered to hold her. Now she hovered near the pantry with Ruby and George, watching with amusement from across the room as Judah, Gray and Deshaun helped a few young boys pick out some clothes. 

Kate adjusted Dawn in her arms, the baby settling instantly as though she had always belonged there. Dawn’s tiny hand curled around Kate’s finger, her warm, soft grip bringing a quiet sort of peace amidst the hustle and noise of the drive. The baby gave a small, contented sigh, her eyes half-lidded, and Kate smiled.

“She likes you,” Sage noted as she hurried past with a clipboard in hand, shooting Kate a grateful look. Jokingly she added, “More than she likes me today.”

Kate chuckled, rocking Dawn gently as she continued to make her rounds. “I think she’s just tired of all the chaos. Huh, baby?”

Dawn didn’t answer, of course, but her sleepy smile deepened as though she agreed and she firmly planted her other fist in her mouth. Kate stood by the food pantry table, rocking a quiet Dawn against her shoulder as the cheerful chaos of the drive swirled around her. Across the room, volunteers and locals bustled about, chatting, laughing, and sorting supplies. Ruby and George manned the table with practiced ease, their playful banter cutting through the noise as they handed out bags of food and exchanged stories with each person who stopped by.

“You’ve got the magic touch with that baby,” Ruby said, pausing to adjust her scarf as she glanced at Kate. “She’s lovin’ you.”

Kate smiled, brushing a stray curl from Dawn’s face. She giggled and reached for Kate’s hand. “She’s a very sweet baby. And very observant.”

George chuckled, sliding a box of canned goods closer to Ruby. “People don’t give ‘em enough credit. We had a fine mix of some smart babies and some dumb babies.”

Ruby scoffed and smacked George, laughing.  

“How many kids do you have?” Kate asked with a smile, shifting Dawn’s weight to the crook of her other arm. 

“Five,” George said, his chest puffing up a bit. “And a whole batch of grandkids now. I can’t often keep track, though Ruby could name every one without callin’ at least one of them by the dog’s name..”

Ruby nodded with a laugh. “And their birthdays. And their favorite desserts.” She turned her gaze back to Kate. “What about you? Any little ones in your future?”

Kate hesitated, her smile faltering. She spent years trying to kill the idea of forever, the one she’d been so sure of before Jeb had died. Now, she didn’t know where she stood again. Some parts had fully scarred over but other parts of her mind were shadowed with fears still. Planning for the future was always one shadowed bit of her mind that she tended to avoid altogether, not ready to let herself dream like she used to. 

“I don’t know. Haven’t really thought that far ahead.”

Ruby gave her a knowing look but didn’t press. Instead, she leaned against the table and said, “Well, don’t let the idea scare you. Life has a funny way of working out when you’re not looking’.”

Kate tilted her head, curious and eager to get the spotlight off herself. “Is that how it was for you two? How did you end up here in Clearbrook?”

“Oh, this town’s always been my stomping grounds,” George said, his grin widening. “Born and raised right here.” He glanced at Ruby, his expression softening. “But I didn’t meet this one until I was already grown.”

“Where did you two meet?”

“At a rodeo,” Ruby said with a mischievous twinkle in her eye. “I was traveling the circuit, singing and barrel racing. George was just some wide-eyed kid from Clearbrook helping out with the livestock and entering his pigs in the fairs.”

“Kid?” George scoffed, though his smile gave him away. “I was twenty-two, thank you very much.”

Ruby smirked. “Sure, kid.”

Kate laughed softly. “So, what happened?”

“Well,” George said, scratching his chin, “I saw her up there singing between the events, looking like the most dazzling thing I’d ever laid eyes on. Figured I’d take a chance and introduce myself.”

“And he did it by tripping over a bale of hay,” Ruby added, her laughter ringing out. “But he made up for it by being sweet. Started showing up at every show after that.”

“I even got myself hired on for whatever jobs they had open, just so I could be wherever she was,” George admitted.

His words struck a cord of familiarity in her. She was reminded of a time when a boy chased her in an airport and ultimately brought her home to stay. “You followed the rodeo?” Kate asked, her voice a touch softer than it was before. 

“Sure did,” he said proudly. “It wasn’t much of a life for a homebody like me, but Ruby made it an adventure. I wouldn’t trade those years for anything.”

Ruby softened, her teasing grin turning affectionate. “And when it was time to settle, George convinced me Clearbrook was the place. Didn’t mean I stopped singing or riding. We just found new ways to make it work.”

Kate’s gaze drifted between them, taking in the warmth and ease of their bond. “You never really slowed down then?” 

Ruby shook her head. “Why would we? Life’s too short to stop chasing what you love.”

George nodded. “Settling doesn’t mean stopping. It just means picking a place to come back to when you get a little tired.”

“Or achy,” Ruby added with a chuckle. 

Kate smiled, their words settling over her like the softest nudge. For so long, her life had felt like it was only ever about the next storm, the next challenge. She hadn’t thought much about how a life could expand, could stretch to hold more than one dream at a time.

“Sounds like you two have it all figured out,” she said, her tone light but sincere.

“Oh, don’t let us fool you,” Ruby said, her eyes sparkling. “We’re just good at making it up as we go.”

George chuckled. “And having a little fun along the way.”

Kate laughed with them, her grip on Dawn shifting as the baby stirred slightly.

The room was a flurry of movement—families carrying bags of supplies, volunteers restocking tables, kids dashing around the edges of the crowd. It was easy to fall into the rhythm of things here, surrounded by warmth and familiarity, even among people she didn’t know well. She was so focused on soothing Dawn and asking about Ruby and George’s kids that she didn’t notice Tyler at first.

When she finally glanced up, he was standing a few feet away, his expression unreadable. He looked a little rough for wear, still scruffy from the morning’s work. His boots were snowy and his hat dripped with ice.  But it wasn’t his sudden presence that surprised her. It was the way he was looking at her—stunned, maybe, or something deeper.

Kate froze under the weight of his gaze, the hum of the townspeople fading into the background. She wasn’t sure she’d ever seen him look at her like that before, as if she were something entirely new to him, something he hadn’t realized he’d been searching for until this moment.

“Tyler?” she ventured, her voice soft.

He blinked, the spell breaking, and the corners of his mouth curved into a small, almost shy smile.

“Hey, Sapulpa,” he said, his voice lower than usual. He closed the distance between them in a few steps, his eyes never leaving hers, until he turned to give Dawn a charming smile. “Looks like you’ve been busy.”

Kate swallowed, unsure why her heart was suddenly racing. “This is Sage and Shepherd’s daughter, Dawn. I offered to hold her for a bit.”

Tyler glanced at the baby cradled against her, his expression softening even further. “You’re good at it,” he said, almost to himself.

Kate let out a small, nervous laugh, her cheeks warming. “She’s been an easy baby so far. It hasn’t been hard to keep her happy.”

“Still,” he said, his eyes meeting hers again. There was something new there, something tender and unguarded that made her feel as if the ground beneath her had shifted. Kate had no idea what to say. For once, Tyler wasn’t teasing or cracking a joke, and she felt completely disarmed by the quiet intensity in his gaze. He reached out as Dawn waved a hand and she briefly latched his hand around one of his fingers. Kate’s heart jumped again. 

“Tyler!” Sage called from somewhere behind them, breaking the moment. He turned slightly, his easy grin returning as Dawn let him go and he waved at her.

“Be right there,” he called back before turning to Kate again. “You good here?”

Kate nodded, finding her voice at last. “Yeah, I’m good. Go on.”

He lingered for a second longer, his eyes flicking back to Dawn as if he didn’t want to leave, but then he nodded and stepped away, heading toward Sage.

Kate watched him go, her chest tight with something she couldn’t quite name. Dawn shifted against her, her tiny hand brushing Kate’s cheek, and she blinked, grounding herself in the baby’s warmth. 

One thing at a time. 

Ruby leaned over to her and whispered, “Whatever you’re hopin’ for in your future, I’ve got a feelin’ that boy of yours is all in. He was just tickled pink by you holdin’ that baby.” 

It was one thing seeing Tyler look at her like that, but to be acknowledged by an outside look only made Kate’s stomach flip with worry. Tyler’s face was hardly subtle and his expressions less so. He never tried to hide how he felt. Often, a dream felt dangerous to her - she’d dreamed and lost everything. What frightened her more sometimes was the idea that Tyler was always ready to move forward and she was just holding them back. 

But she caught him looking her way again, his smile soft and eyes crinkled with affection, she was able to quickly soothe her nerves. Tyler had never pushed her when it came to their relationship. She grounded herself with a deep breath and told herself that Tyler would wait for her and one day, she’d let herself catch up to him and whatever dreams he’d thought up in the meantime. 

By the time the drive started to wind down nearing one, the tables were bare and most of the lingering people sat at the middle tables, enjoying a hot meal of the potluck food from the church. Kate had grabbed some soup herself and ate with Lily and Dani. Shepherd had approached Kate - a tall man, with wavy blond hair and blue eyes - and swept Dawn into his arms. She giggled and patted his face happily. He’d wandered off to help his wife, despite having been out all morning already. 

The bustling energy of the morning had softened entirely - people stacking empty boxes, folding empty tables, and sweeping up trash and such from the linoleum floors. 

Boone and Tyler were talking with the teen boys near the entrance as they each helped some elderly folks back out to their cars. Kate was reminded of the way he looked at her earlier and she smiled softly. 

“You are one lucky gal.” 

A raspy voice startled Kate and she turned to see Dolly standing next to her. Her wrinkled face was soft with understanding yet alight with mischief. 

“He’s a keeper that one,” she continued. “And some pleasant scenery too. You don’t always get that - someone you love, who’s also easy on the eyes? Jackpot, honey.” 

Kate couldn’t help the snicker that escaped her mouth as Dolly moved away. Tyler returned from his chivalrous duties and eyed her. “What’s so funny?” 

“Nothing,” Kate replied with teasing sweetness. “Just thinking we could make a lot of money if we auctioned off a date with you at a nursing home.”

“I’m that much of a hot commodity, am I?” Tyler grinned flawlessly. 

“I know three ladies who’d pay a pretty penny,” Kate crossed her arms and bit back a grin. 

“I like to think I have someone who might fight them on it,” Tyler stepped into her space, wrapping his arms low around her waist. He smelled like winter air and tree sap, like they’d been cutting up wood. 

“Hmm, maybe,” Kate pursed her lips thoughtfully and she didn’t miss the way his eyes lingered on the movement. “Depends on how you deal with cold feet tonight.” 

Before Tyler could reply, Sage’s voice rang out. 

“Alright everyone!” She was standing at the front of the large room. “Square set-up is at four thirty. Go on home, get warm and take a rest for a bit. I’ll see you there!”

The Wranglers appeared, regrouped and looking tired. Tyler glanced at Kate. “I’ve got an idea.” 

Before long, Kate and Tyler were on their way to a little coffee house downtown. It had been out of the path of the tornado all those weeks ago and Tyler told her that Shepherd said they were setting up a station tonight at the square with hot chocolate and coffee. Wanting to support them, Tyler suggested the two of them go get some sweets for the team, who were sent back to Sage’s RV to recuperate and nap. 

Kate was tired, but not so tired that she didn’t want to go on a little excursion with just Tyler. The coffee house was made of brick and beautifully styled with a rustic sign that read in pretty white letters Clearbrook Coffee & Cookies. The little bell dinged when they walked in and it smelled like Christmas. As Tyler walked up to the counter, Kate’s phone buzzed in her pocket. 

It was a text from Mama. 

How’s it going? 

Kate let Tyler handle the cookies and leaned against a booth. Good. The drive was a huge success today and we’ve got the small town Christmas event in a few hours. 

Okay. Stay safe and warm. I want a picture of Tyler in the Santa suit.

She laughed to herself as Tyler returned to her with a box of cookies. “I was gonna see if you want to have a coffee, but I’m gonna be real, Sapulpa, I’m dog tired.”

She opened the door before wrapping her arm in his elbow as they walked back to the truck. The wind from last night had died down today and for the most part, it had stopped snowing. But the powder was still swirling over the roads and when the wind did blow, it sent a spray of snow with it. 

“Me too,” she hopped into the truck and he handed her the box of cookies. “I’ll vote for a nap.”

The trip back to the RV was quick and when they walked in the door with the box of cookies, Boone greeted them like a hungry dog. “Alright everyone, say thank you mom and dad,” Boone said in a sing-song voice. “Give me those sugar cookies.”

“Please,” Kate scolded.

Boone rolled his eyes. “Please.”

Tyler stretched out the box, a smirk on his face. 

The box was taken from Tyler and laid on the table for the rest of the Wranglers to crowd around. Kate took off her boots and her coat, hanging it up, before flopping down on the couch. Tyler wasted no time in joining her and she leaned against him. 

“Do any of you have cookie making traditions?” Kate asked, watching as they each found a kind they liked. 

Dexter pushed his glasses up further on his nose. “My sister and her kids make some. They usually bring some around for all of us.”
Dani hummed. “Yes, I love Auntie’s cookies.”

“We make them with my cousins,” Boone nodded. 

“I’m sure that’s a good time,” Kate teased. 

Tyler slid his arm behind Kate’s head and she shifted closer. “I’ve been there before. It’s a riot.”

“Bet it is,” she hummed, closing her eyes as the work of the day settled in. 

A bit more chatter followed, but it was muffled to her as the idea of a nap started to look more and more appealing. Tyler pressed a kiss to her temple and it was like pushing a button. She let sleep take over. The smell of cookies and the familiar sounds of family filled her dreams. 

-

The Christmas Fest of Clearbrook was nothing short of pure magic. The square had been transformed in two hours into a wonderland of lights and little wooden characters like snowmen and reindeer and gingerbread men. There were various stations set up under easy-ups, some with some ornament crafts, others with baked goods, and another with hot chocolate and hot cider. There was even a firepit blazing, with a hefty stack of wood cut from trees that had been toppled by the tornado. Kate was helping serve hot chocolate, mostly by trying to keep little kids from burning themselves by adding a generous dose of ReadyWhip. 

Dexter and Dani were helping make smores at the fire, while Lily and Boone were in charge of crafting some ornaments with whoever came over. Laughter filled the air and the early darkness made the lights even more beautiful. Tyler, however, had disappeared. 

“I’ll be back,” was all he had said. 

Sage came close from where she’d been at a leftover donations table. She left the three book club ladies in charge and gestured for Kate to come close. 

Handing off the ladle to Ruby, she followed Sage on the edge of the festivities. Sage pulled her into a hug and wiped a tear from her eye. “I wanted to thank you all so much for everything you’ve done to help us out. It’s been - really hard.”

Kate wasn’t often the one to handle the people when it came to this stuff. Tyler was pretty good at it, with his easy charm or sometimes Lily, with her easy going personality. But it seemed to come more easily these days. 

“You don’t have to thank us,” Kate said softly. “Your community did a ton of the work. You should be proud of yourselves. We’re just glad we could be part of it.”

Sage glanced sidelong and Kate subtly followed her gaze. Shepherd stood at the firepit with Rowan, Opal and in his arms, baby Dawn. 

“I want to make sure they know that loss isn’t the end,” Sage sniffled. “That joy still exists after hurt.”

Kate couldn’t help but linger on the picturesque scene of the family. Shepherd, tall and gentle with his children. Rowan, trying to help his over exuberant sister Opal as she set a marshmallow on fire. And little Dawn, her hands reaching for the warmth of the fire before her, tucked safely into her father’s arms. Kate felt her heart squeeze inside her chest and she turned back to Sage more fully. 

“You’re setting a great example,” Kate murmured, reaching out to smooth a hand up and down Sage’s arm reassuringly. “They’ll have this community because of you and the work you’ve put into it.”

Sage let out a shaky laugh, wiping at her eyes again. “I don’t know if I’ll ever feel like it’s enough. Some days it feels like we’re just barely holding it together.”

Kate nodded, understanding the weight of those words more than Sage could possibly know. She remembered a time when every step forward felt like wading through quicksand—when getting out of bed, facing the world, and even daring to breathe seemed impossible.

She glanced again at the firepit, at the glow of the flames and the way they reflected on Shepherd’s face as he held his family close. It reminded her of the resilience she’d found in herself over the years. Oklahoma was like that—tough and battered by storms, but always finding a way to stand back up. She had started to learn that maybe she was like that too.

Kate took a deep breath, the cold air sharp and grounding. “I know what it feels like to think nothing will ever be the same. To wonder if you’re doing enough, or if it even matters. But, Sage—what you’ve done here? It does matter. These people, your family… they’re stronger because of you. They’ve found joy again because you didn’t give up.”

Sage stared at her for a moment, her expression softening as she searched Kate’s face. “You’ve been through something too, haven’t you?”

Kate hesitated, but then she nodded. “Yeah. A really hard time. But places like this - people like you - it reminds me of why I keep going.” 

A smile broke through Sage’s tears Kate felt a flicker of warmth in her chest, a quiet pride she hadn’t let herself feel in a long time. They hugged again and a new sense of peace filled Kate. 

A loud roar of an engine startled them both and Kate turned towards Main Street to see a familiar red truck, the rigging and roll cage festooned with lights and garland. The front of the truck had a large red bow and anything left in the bed of the truck had been removed and replaced by hay bales and blankets. 

Tyler slowed down and leaned out the window. He was dressed in his Santa suit and wearing his white Stetson. On the radio blared, Santa Drives a Hot Rod . 

“I heard we were in need of some wagon rides and brought the next best thing,” he called. 

People flocked towards him, their children bouncing with giddiness. Kate gave Sage a roll of her eyes. 

“Sorry, but I better go make sure he behaves,” she laughed. “He’d harness up a tornado for a sleigh if he could.” 

Sage waved her off. “Have fun! And thank you!”

As parents helped their children into the bed to sit, Kate approached the driver's side window. Tyler leaned out of it, his eyes watching her fondly. His hat was tipped just a bit too far down, making him look more like a roguish Santa rather than a festive one. 

“So this is what you were up to,” Kate commented, eyeing the truck’s new decorations. Remembering her mother’s words, she pulled out her phone. “Smile.” 

Tyler didn’t even ask questions, just made a heart with his hands and smiled brilliantly for the picture. Kate was quick to send it to her mother before tucking her phone back away. “I told you I could pull off a Santa. A young, hot Santa, but Santa nonetheless, eh darlin’ ?”

Kate came close enough that her words would only be heard by Tyler. “Well, I hate to say it, but I do have to admit you look pretty good.”

He was still as she leaned up to kiss him, pausing only to whisper, “And just remember I’ve been an awful good girl, Santa baby.”

When she stepped back, Tyler’s eyes were wide with mischief and delight at her tease. “Can’t be sayin’ stuff like that, Sapulpa, when I can’t do nothin’ about it.”

Kate shrugged. “Guess it’ll have to wait for Christmas.” 

Tyler stared at her for a long moment, smiling, before he jerked his chin. “Alright, Santa’s little helper, get on up here. I need some help steering the sleigh.” 

Kate glanced back to make sure no one was in dire need of help before she ran around the front and climbed in next to him. The heat of the truck felt wonderful on her cold extremities and Tyler reached out to hold one of her hands. He leaned out the window. 

“We ready?” 

The kids all shouted their approval.

Tyler drove around the block a few times, stopping once or twice to let kids off and others on. They all laughed and shouted with merriment and joy and Kate watched the town from the truck as they relished one another’s company on the square. It was a good night - she hoped Sage was proud of the work she and her community had accomplished. 

By the time the last wagon ride came to an end, the night had stretched far past its planned conclusion. It was nearing nine thirty, but no one seemed to mind. The warm glow of the firepit and string lights lingered in defiance of the cold, and laughter echoed faintly down the quiet streets of Clearbrook. Parents and kids headed off with tired smiles, blankets hugged close around shoulders. Some of the teens helped walk a few elderly folk to their cars. A handful of volunteers started breaking down the remaining tables and chairs, their breath visible in the frosty air.

Kate and Tyler helped where they could, Tyler returning his truck to its normal state once the last of the hay bales had been unloaded. Lily and Dexter packed up the tables with the football boys. Dani coordinated with the remaining locals to make sure the cleanup was smooth, her voice carrying across the square as she helped direct traffic with good-natured teasing.

The evening’s energy had faded to a quiet contentment, and Kate found herself stealing a moment to take it all in. She wiped her hands on her jeans, stepping back to let Shepherd and Sage handle the last of the folding chairs. Flurries had begun to drift down from the dark sky, catching the glow of the streetlights and making the scene look almost magical.

Kate turned when she felt a nudge at her arm. Tyler stood beside her, holding out a paper cup. “Hot cocoa. Figured we earned it. Plus I’m sure your hands need some defrost.”

Kate took it gratefully, the warmth sinking into her fingers as she wrapped her hands around the cup. “Thank you.” 

Tyler grinned, taking a sip of his own. He looked out at the square, his expression softer now. “You think we did okay tonight?”

Kate turned her gaze back to the scene before her. The firepit still burned low, and a few families lingered, saying quiet goodbyes to one another. She spotted Sage and Shepherd tucking their sleepy children into their car. It was simple, but it was enough. “Yeah,” she murmured. “We did more than okay.”

Tyler smiled, his gaze lingering on her face a little longer. He shifted closer, his shoulder brushing against hers as the snow flurries started to gather on their hats and coats. “They’re gonna make it.” 

Kate nodded, her throat tight suddenly. “Yeah. They will.”

For a moment, they stood there in silence, watching the snowfall and the last of the lights flicker. Now that she had slowed down with helping, she realized how cold she was and shivered violently. Tyler reached down to take her free hand, tucking it into the crook of his arm. “C’mon. Let’s get back to the RV before they steal our bed.”

They crept back towards Sage’s house, the square back to its state aside from the strung lights and decorations. The Wranglers piled into Boone’s van behind them and followed. Soon, they were all warm inside the large RV, the heat blasting and cozily wrapped in their pajamas. 

“Hopefully it doesn’t snow too much,” Dani commented. “We do have to drive home tomorrow.”

“The radar is clear for the morning,” Dexter assured them. “It should be fairly decent for the drive back. For all of us.” 

Boone leaned over the side of his upper bunk and peeled at his bunk mate from upside down. He held up his phone, his hair falling all around his face. “Dex, didn’t you wanna call Javi?”

Dexter sat up a little beneath him. “Yeah, we should. We spoke with Mr. Warren tonight.” 

Kate blinked from her spot on the couch, feet tucked under her to try and warm them up. “Oh good. Yeah, he will want to hear about that.”

The phone rang a few times before Javi finally picked up, sounding sleepy. “Y’all understand it’s later than it was last night, right?”

“Yeah, yeah,” Dani replied. “We talked to Mr. Warren today.” 

Javi’s voice perked up a little. “Oh yeah? What did he have to say? He got everything, right?” 

“Yep,” Dexter replied. “He’s very eager to get to work on setup. He plans to teach his students about it and it should be all good to go by the new year.”

“Good,” Satisfaction and relief filled Javi’s voice. Kate knew it was hard for him to not be here - very early on in joining the Wranglers, he’d felt like a bit of an outcast. She suspected he often was trying to make up for any damage he caused with StormPAR. “How was everything else? Go alright?”

Tyler was standing by the counter, eating a cookie left over from earlier. “It was pretty damn good, Javi. This town’s got a lot of heart left. Tomorrow we’ll be handing over the monetary donations along with the resources Lily and Dani helped get in contact with.” 

“We got a chance to ride around this morning to see the extent of everything,” Dani added. “Downtown was mostly untouched but the residential areas were hit hard. They’re gonna need the resources so they can allocate in a helpful way.”

Lily pulled a folder from her backpack that sat on the floor by the couch. “We’ve got a list of reputable disaster relief contacts, contractors that will travel for rebuilding and regional nonprofits. Plus a list of potential grants. We’re also sending a digital version of this for township, in case they need to reprint or send it along elsewhere.” 

“Nice,” Javi said approvingly. “Solid setup. Sounds like you guys are doing great up there.” 

“How have you been down there?” Kate asked. “Any better than last night?” 

“Hey, you know, I can’t complain,” Javi replied swiftly. “Well, I can. But even if I do, I’m pretty lucky with my family.” 

“And with us,” Boone chimed in with a wide grin. 

“Yeah, yeah,” Javi replied begrudgingly. “Mostly.” 

“We’ll let you go,” Dexter made the decision for them as a few yawns went through. “Have a merry Christmas.”

“Merry Christmas Javi!” 

“Yeah, we love you!” 

“Send me tickets to Disney World!”

Javi sighed. “I’ll send you a postcard, Boone.” 

Kate laughed Boone hung up and silence fell between all of them for a moment. 

“Alright,” Dexter turned over in bed, folding his glasses and tucking them into his hard case that he slipped into his backpack near the floor. “I’m turning in.” 

Sensing the rest of them wanted to do the same, Kate unfolded her legs and stretched. “Goodnight.” 

At that, Tyler shifted away from the counter and trailed after her like a puppy. The flurries outside had turned heavier, swirling lazily in the dark beyond the window. She caught Tyler’s hand in hers as they squeezed through the narrow walkway toward the back where their bed was tucked away.

The noise of sleeping bag zippers, murmured goodnights, and blankets rustling faded into the background as they settled in. Unlike the night before, the exhaustion weighed on them both immediately. There was no effort to hide away cold feet. Kate sighed softly as she climbed under the covers, the residual chill of the sheets making her shiver briefly and she curled in on herself. 

Tyler slipped in beside her, his movements slower and gentler than usual. The light from the main cabin dimmed as someone flicked it off, leaving only the faint orange glow of Sage’s garage light filtering through the frosty window. “Scoot over,” Tyler murmured, his voice already sleepy but laced with affection.

Kate didn’t argue. Instead, she turned toward him, letting him pull her close until they were chest to chest. The weight of his arm draped across her waist was solid and grounding, his warmth seeping into her. He pressed a kiss to her temple, lingering for just a second before settling his head against the pillow.

Momentarily undistracted, her thoughts went back to Ruby and George. She tried to picture them in their youth, in love with each other and their lives and their craft that there was no other option than to make it work. Their conversation, Ruby’s questions - there would have been a time where she would’ve sat up for hours worrying over all of it. 

But now wasn’t then. And the only thing that it had done was leave a warm, fuzzy feeling in her belly.

“You good?” he whispered after a moment, his voice soft and low in the quiet.

Kate nodded against his chest, a small smile tugging at the corner of her mouth. “Yeah. Just tired.”

“Me too,” he admitted with a breathy chuckle.

For a while, neither of them said anything. Tyler’s breathing evened out, deep and steady, but Kate stayed awake a little longer, listening to the familiar sound. She let herself rest in the moment, held close and safe, her tired body finally relaxing.

“Love you,” she murmured quietly, her words nearly lost to the stillness of the room and the quiet hum of the heater. 

Even half-asleep, Tyler’s response was instant. “Love you too, Sapulpa.”

That was all she needed. Eyes closed, Kate let herself drift off, feeling warmer and more at peace than she had in days.

Chapter Text