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Chapter Text

The halls of Grey Sloan Memorial buzzed with a quiet but constant energy. Carina moved through them with practiced grace, her white coat swaying at her sides as she made her way to Bailey’s office. It was only her third week back from maternity leave, and already her schedule was starting to fill out with prenatal consults, complex deliveries and long procedures. Despite the exhaustion that clung to her from baby Andrea’s nighttime feeds and Liam’s energetic toddler pace, Carina finally felt like herself again.

Knocking gently on Bailey’s door, Carina stepped in when she heard the familiar, “Come in!” Bailey looked up from a stack of papers and smiled warmly. “Dr. DeLuca. Just the woman I wanted to see.” Carina returned the smile, sitting down in the chair across from her. “I was told you had something for me?” “Yes,” Bailey nodded, sliding a glossy pamphlet across the desk. “The Elena Bailey Clinic is being honoured next month at a women’s health seminar. I want you to represent us. Speak about reproductive justice, maternal care gaps, your work at the Station 19 community outreach clinic. Everything.”

Carina picked up the pamphlet. A two-day event, hosted at Grey Sloan. Panels, speakers, workshops. “I’m honoured,” she said softly, genuinely moved. “This… this means a lot.” “You’re our clinic’s pride, Carina,” Bailey said. “I know things haven’t been easy balancing everything, motherhood, marriage, medicine but you’re a damn inspiration.”

Carina smiled and looked down at the list of confirmed speakers.

And then her heart stuttered.

Dr. Arizona Robbins, Fetal and Paediatric Surgery, New York.

Dr. Gabriella Aurora, OB-GYN, San Francisco Women’s Health Initiative.

Of course. Of course it couldn’t be just any seminar.

Arizona, her ex-girlfriend, sweet, sunny, and once someone Carina thought she might settle down with. And Gabriella, her best friend from medical school, who had been her closest confidante… and her lover during a wild, in-between chapter of their lives.

Bailey looked up at Carina’s worried face, “Everything okay?” Carina forced a smile. “Yes, just… surprised to see some familiar names.”

Carina tried not to let it eat at her all day. She threw herself into work, meeting with a first-time mom who was worried about the lack of fetal movement, and later checking on a patient recovering from a complicated hysterectomy. But by the time she picked up Andrea from daycare and bundled her sleepy daughter into the backseat, her thoughts kept drifting.

Would Maya be upset?

Would she think it was weird?

Jealous?

Maya never got jealous not really. Just the one time with Pam, but that was more about Maya’s insecurity about their rocky relationship at the time. But this was different. This wasn’t a random ex. This was two people Carina had slept with, both under the same roof. And Maya had always had a complicated relationship with vulnerability.

Still, by the time they got home, she had made up her mind to tell her. No secrets. No hesitation.

The house was a picture of cozy chaos when she stepped inside, Andrea in her carrier, diaper bag slipping off her shoulder. Liam’s laughter rang out from the living room, where Maya was on her knees building towers of blocks only for Liam to knock them over gleefully.

“There’s my girls!” Maya beamed, standing to meet them. Carina smiled as Maya leaned in to kiss her then kissed Andrea’s fuzzy head. “Long day?” Maya asked. “You have no idea,” Carina sighed, finally setting Andrea down in her bassinet and shrugging out of her coat. “And I have news.” “Oh?” Maya asked. “Bailey asked me to speak at a seminar for the Elena Bailey Clinic,” she said slowly, gauging Maya’s expression. “Next month. Here at Grey Sloan.” “That’s amazing!” Maya grinned, lifting Liam onto her hip. “That’s huge Dr DeLuca!” “DeLuca-Bishop” Liam corrected. “Of course, how could I forget” Maya smiled, kissing Liam on his cheek.

Carina smiled, her heart swelling. “It is. I’m… really proud.” “So what’s the catch?” Maya asked, her tone shifting just slightly. “I know that face.” Carina chuckled. “You know me too well.”

She waited until both kids were down for the night, Liam nestled in his crib after three bedtime stories; Andrea nursed and rocked to sleep in Carina’s arms. Then they met on the couch, wine glasses in hand, the hum of the baby monitor keeping them grounded.

“So… here’s the thing,” Carina began. “Some of the other speakers… they’re people I used to know.” Maya raised an eyebrow. “Arizona will be there,” Carina said carefully. “And Gabriella.” Maya blinked. “Arizona as in…?” “Yes. Arizona.” “Your ex.” Carina nodded. “And Gabriella…” “My best friend. From medical school.” “The one you used to…?” “Yes.” Maya sipped her wine slowly, letting it all sink in. Carina held her breath.

Then Maya set her glass down and smiled. “Well,” she said lightly, “that’s going to be one very hot seminar.” Carina let out a relieved laugh. “Seriously?” “What?” Maya shrugged. “You’re hot. Your ex is hot. Your med school bestie is hot.” Carina rolled her eyes. “You’re ridiculous.” “I mean it,” Maya said, her tone softening. “I’m not jealous. Not even a little. I know what we have. I know what you and I built. And the fact that you told me? That means everything.” Carina leaned into her side, touched. “I was afraid you might get weird.” “I’m only weird in the fun ways,” Maya teased. “And I know you’re mine. I mean, we have two babies asleep upstairs that prove it. And, this ring right here”Maya kisses Carina’s wedding ring “means only I get to see you naked.”

Carina giggled, wrapping an arm around her wife’s waist. “You are really very sweet, you know?” “I can be,” Maya said, grinning mischievously. “But… I reserve the right to tease you endlessly when you’re trapped in a room with not one, but two former lovers.” Carina smacked her arm. “You’re the worst.” “I’m the best,” Maya countered. “The best wife, the best firefighter, and the best pillow talk conversationalist.” “Oh, I’m sure that’s what you’re known for.”

They both laughed, letting the noise of the day slip away as the house held them safe.

Later, curled in bed with Carina’s head on Maya’s chest, they lay in a tangle of limbs and love. Carina could hear Maya’s heartbeat beneath her ear, steady and strong. “You really aren’t worried?” she asked softly. “Nope,” Maya said simply. “Not about them. Not about us. The only thing I’m worried about is if you come home with new stories about how amazing they are and I suddenly feel boring in comparison.” Carina lifted her head. “You could never be boring. You’re Maya freaking Bishop.” “Maya DeLuca-Bishop” Maya pronouncing it like Liam. “That kid is going to get us into trouble if he continues correcting people” Carina said with a smile on her face. Maya smirked. “That’s true.”

Carina pressed a kiss to her shoulder. “Thank you for trusting me.”“Always.”

They drifted off to sleep soon after, the sounds of their breathing syncing in the dark. Outside, the world kept turning. Inside, their world was quiet and full and whole.

The sun hadn’t yet risen when Carina felt the press of lips against her shoulder, soft and warm. Her brain floated in that half-sleep state until she heard a mischievous hum and felt a body snuggling closer to hers under the covers.

“Buongiorno,” Maya whispered against her skin, her breath sending a pleasant shiver down Carina’s spine. “Mmm,” Carina murmured, eyes still closed. “Why are you awake?” “I should be asking you that,” Maya teased, nuzzling Carina’s neck. “I’m the one who skipped my run to do this.” “Do what?” Carina asked, playing coy.

“This,” Maya said, brushing her fingers down Carina’s bare side, her touch featherlight. “Wake you up before the chaos begins. Sneak in some sexy time while the tiny humans are still asleep.” Carina cracked open one eye. “You do realise today is the seminar, sì?” “Exactly. Which is why you deserve a little something special.” Maya’s voice dipped, warm and sultry as her hand slid lower. “A good luck charm, if you will.”

Carina giggled, but it turned into a breathy sigh when Maya kissed just below her ear. “Is this your version of a pep talk?” “Yup. And you’re going to feel very confident when I’m done with you.” The teasing turned into kisses. Long, slow, deep ones that left no part of Carina untouched. Their bodies shifted, fitting together like they always did natural, seamless, electric. Maya whispered sweet nothings in Carina’s ear, and Carina’s hands found familiar curves and muscle and warmth.

By the time they stumbled into the shower, they were already flushed and breathless. Water poured over them in soothing waves, steam curling around their silhouettes. Maya pressed Carina against the tile, kissing a path down her neck as her fingers slid over slick skin. Carina moaned softly, clinging to her as Maya worshipped her with every kiss, every touch, every look that made her feel like the most beautiful woman on earth. They made love slowly, indulgently, hands tangled and lips insistent, both of them savouring what little time they had before the day took them in separate directions.

The smell of coffee and strawberries filled the kitchen as Maya flipped a pancake one-handed while cradling Andrea in her other arm.

Carina walked in freshly dressed, her hair still damp, Liam toddling behind her holding a banana in each hand like trophies. “You know,” Carina said, sliding her arms around Maya’s waist from behind, “you cooking in a tank top while holding our daughter is very unfair. I’m trying to concentrate on my speech.” Maya smirked. “Don’t blame me for being irresistible.” “You’re impossible,” Carina muttered, kissing her cheek. “But you love it.”

Liam squealed and slammed both bananas on the table. “Yum! Yum!” Andrea made a sleepy coo from Maya’s arm, and Carina melted a little more at the domestic scene in front of her. Mornings like this, chaotic, warm, full of tiny fingers and sleepy kisses were what she lived for.

They moved in sync, passing each other utensils and wiping yogurt off chubby cheeks. Once breakfast was done, Carina took charge of packing bottles, diapers, and extra clothes, while Maya wrangled Liam into his sneakers.

“I got him!” Maya called, scooping Liam up as he tried to crawl under the table. Carina laughed, sliding Andrea into her carrier. “That’s two for two. We might actually be on time.”

At the car, Maya strapped Liam in while Carina double-checked the diaper bag. When she turned to get into the car herself, Maya caught her wrist gently.

“Hey,” she said softly, pulling Carina toward her. Their lips met in a slow, lingering kiss, nothing rushed, nothing frantic. Just love.

“You’re going to kill it today,” Maya whispered, brushing her thumb over Carina’s cheek. “They’re lucky to even be in the same room as you.” Carina’s eyes shimmered slightly. “You always know what to say.” Maya grinned. “It’s a gift. Now go be brilliant, Dr. DeLuca.” “DeLuca-Bishop” Liam corrected again, leaving his mothers laughing. 

Carina kissed her again. “I love you.”

“I love you more.”

They parted with one last kiss, then drove off in different directions, Maya toward Station 19, and Carina toward Grey Sloan.

The drive wasn’t long, but Carina felt her nerves start to bubble. She had her notes. She had her talking points. But her stomach still fluttered the way it always did before speaking in public. She was used to one-on-one connections with patients. Not microphones and auditoriums.

Still, she took a deep breath as she pulled into the Grey Sloan parking lot and opened the back doors to unbuckle the kids. Liam was humming nonsense, and Andrea blinked up at her with curious eyes.

She carried Andrea in her carrier and Liam holding her hand. They walked toward the entrance of the daycare, but as soon as she entered, she noticed something was off.

The doors were locked.

A neon-yellow laminated sign was taped to the glass:

CLOSED DUE TO CHICKENPOX OUTBREAK —DAYCARE IS CLOSED FOR THIE WEEK

Carina stared at it.

“No. No, no, no.”

She jiggled the handle, as if that would somehow change reality. Then she turned and walked quickly back to the car, already pulling her phone out of her purse.

She dialled Maya’s number as she buckled Liam back into his seat. Maya answered on the second ring. “Hey, babe. Did you forget your notes?” “No,” Carina said in a rush. “Maya…..the daycare’s closed.” “What?” “Chickenpox outbreak. They’re shut down all week. I can’t bring the kids in.”

Maya was silent for a beat. “You’re kidding.” “I wish I was.” “Okay. Okay. Don’t panic,” Maya said, her voice instantly switching to mom-mode. “I’ll come get them. I’ll figure it out.” “You’re on shift.” “I’ll talk to Jack. Or Dayna. It’ll be fine.”

“Maya…” “Babe, you have a seminar to speak at. It’s important. I’ve got the kids. Just stay put. I’m leaving now.” Carina swallowed the emotion building in her throat. “You’re amazing, Bambina.” “Tell me something I don’t know. Be there in ten.”

She hung up, and Carina exhaled shakily. Liam kicked his legs behind her in the car seat and yelled, “Fire truck!”

Carina looked back and smiled despite herself. “Maybe, Tesoro. Maybe Mom will let you play with the lights.”

Ten minutes later, Maya pulled into the parking lot, jumping out in her uniform and slipping her sunglasses onto her head.

“Hey, my little troublemakers,” she said, reaching for Liam and giving Carina a quick kiss. “You okay?” Carina nodded. “Still flustered. But I’m okay.”

Maya took Andrea from her arms, expertly adjusting the baby carrier into her car. “You go. Be brilliant. We’ll be fine.” “Are you sure? I can skip…” “No,” Maya cut in firmly. “This is your moment. I’ll make it work. I’ve got Jack to help out. We’ll turn the station into a makeshift daycare if we have to.”

Carina looked at her, this beautiful woman standing in the morning sun with a toddler grabbing her hand, and felt her heart crack wide open again. “I love you,” she said, voice trembling. Maya leaned in and kissed her forehead. “I know.” Carina wiped her eyes and laughed softly. “You’re insufferable.” “And hot.” “And hot,” Carina agreed.

Maya turned to Liam. “Say ‘Bye Mama! Go be awesome!’” “Bye Mama!” Liam yelled. “Go be sau-some!”

Close enough.

Carina blew them kisses and walked away slowly, glancing back one last time to see Maya buckling the kids into the back of the car like a total badass-mom.

And as she headed into the hospital, she carried with her every kiss, every whispered encouragement, and the certainty that no matter what happened at that seminar, she was already more than enough. 

Maya pulled into the back lot of Station 19 with her usual confidence. The back seat was unusually noisy. Liam was chattering to himself about how many pancakes he ate, while Andrea kicked rhythmically at her car seat, babbling baby nonsense to her feet. Maya smiled softly. 

She glanced in the rearview mirror and adjusted her uniform collar. No crumbs. No spit-up. She could do this. Inside, Jack was already waiting leaning casually against the captain’s office doorway. 

“Look at these angels,” Jack said as soon as Maya walked in with the baby carrier and Liam holding her hand. She smiled. “I wouldn’t go that far.” “Hey, I was a hurricane until I was five. These two? Absolute saints.”

Liam spotted Jack and squealed, running up to him. “Uncle Jack!” Jack crouched and opened his arms. “There’s my guy! Ready for a day of snacks and chaos?” Liam nodded enthusiastically, then held up three fingers. “Three pancakes!”

Jack gasped. “No way. You’re gonna be faster than me soon.” Andrea cooed and smacked her fist against Maya’s hand as if to remind everyone she was here too.

Jack reached up gently, touching the baby’s hand. “And you, Miss Andrea, are going to melt every firefighter’s heart today, huh?”

Maya chuckled as she said “I really owe you for this, Jack.” He shrugged. “Hey, it’s my day off. I’m happy to help.”

Before Maya could reply, the main doors swung open and Chief Natasha Ross stepped into the station.

The air shifted immediately. Jack straightened. Maya stiffened slightly as her eyes met the chief’s. Ross had always carried herself with an intimidating sort of grace, like she belonged two steps ahead of everyone else in the room.

This wasn’t the first time their paths had crossed post-scandal, but no matter how much work Maya had put in, no matter how many times she’d proven her commitment, Ross’s demeanour toward her had never softened.

“Lieutenant Bishop,” Ross greeted coolly, eyes flicking between Maya, the baby in her arms, and the toddler gripping Jack’s hand. “DeLuca-Bishop” Liam chirped at the Chief.  “Are you running a daycare now?” Ross said staring at Liam. 

Maya’s stomach dropped. She shifted Andrea to her other arm, keeping her voice calm. “No, Chief. There was an emergency, Grey Sloan’s daycare closed due to a chickenpox outbreak. Jack’s taking the kids home to watch them.”

Ross raised a brow. “This is a professional workspace, not a nursery. You understand that, don’t you?” Maya felt her jaw clench but kept her tone measured. “I do. That’s why the kids are only here for pickup. We’re already on our way out.” Ross glanced at Jack, then back at Maya. “This isn’t a trend that should continue.”

“It won’t,” Maya said quietly. “I’m just trying to support my wife.” Ross didn’t respond, but the silence spoke volumes. Without another word, she turned and walked toward the captain’s office, where Andy was waiting.

Jack whistled under his breath. “She’s still gunning for you, huh?” Maya let out a slow breath, pressing a kiss to Andrea’s forehead before handing her over to Jack. “It’s like I can’t win with her. Doesn’t matter what I do.” Jack shifted Andrea to his hip and squeezed Maya’s shoulder with his free hand. “You’ve done more than enough. Don’t let her get to you.”

Maya nodded, but her chest still felt tight. “I’ll text you when we’re back,” Jack said. “Take a breath. You’re okay.” “Thanks, Jack,” Maya murmured.

She watched them leave, Liam chatting nonstop and Andrea staring wide-eyed up at Jack like he was made of cartoons and clouds. Maya smiled faintly… then turned and walked briskly toward the locker room, the earlier joy of the morning slowly unraveling inside her.

Maya sat on the bench in the locker room, phone in hand, debating whether to call Carina. She knew her wife would want to know what happened. She’d probably be supportive and fiery in all the best ways. But Carina had a big day, too. She was at the seminar, surrounded by old colleagues and friends, representing the Elena Bailey Clinic with pride.

The last thing Maya wanted to do was rain on that.

Still, her thumb hovered over Carina’s name. She needed her. Just her voice.

After a beat, she gave in and hit call.

Carina picked up immediately.

“Bambina!” Carina’s voice was bright, lively. “You will not believe how many people came. Bailey just introduced me as the ‘paediatric dream team’ alongside Arizona. And Gabriella brought pastries, of course.” Maya chuckled lightly, her chest tightening again with affection and guilt. “Sounds like a good start, Babe.” “It’s amazing, really,” Carina went on. “Arizona is being so lovely, and Gabriella’s already asked me to present together again in the fall. I feel like… I don’t know, like I’m finally seen.”

Maya could picture her smiling, glowing in that way only Carina could, when her passion aligned with purpose. “That’s incredible,” Maya said softly. “You sound… tired. Did the kids wear you out already?” Maya paused. She could lie. Or she could tell the truth and risk ruining the mood. “I’m okay,” she said eventually. “They’re with Jack. He’s taking them home.” Carina’s voice gentled. “Are you sure you’re okay?” Maya hesitated. “Yeah. I’m fine. Just… long morning. I’ll tell you everything later.”

There was a pause on the other end. “Okay,” Carina said softly. “But I know your voice, Amore. Don’t shut me out.” “I won’t,” Maya promised. “I promise. I’m just glad your day’s going so well. You deserve it.” “I miss you,” Carina said. “Even after just a few hours.” “I miss you, too Baby.” Maya sighed.

They hung up quietly. Maya sat there for a long moment, the silence wrapping around her like a fog. She leaned back against the cool metal locker and closed her eyes, letting herself feel the sting of Ross’s words again.

This isn’t a daycare.

This isn’t a trend that should continue.

Even now, after everything, after owning up to her mistakes, putting in the work, showing up for her team, Maya still felt like she was on probation in the eyes of people like Ross.

It was exhausting. And lonely.

But then she thought of Carina standing in front of a crowd, speaking with grace and flair. She thought of Liam’s pancake bragging and Andrea’s happy coos in the car. She thought of Jack calling them angels, of the way her family, chosen and blood showed up for each other.

Ross might not see her.

But they did.

And for now… maybe that was enough.

Chapter Text

The hum of voices still buzzed in Carina’s ears as she stepped out of Grey Sloan. She exhaled, her cheeks flushed not just from the lingering warmth of the champagne, but from the sheer high of the day.

The seminar had been a triumph.

Arizona had raised her glass at her across the panel table when Bailey introduced her as “a trailblazer in reproductive justice and obstetrics care.” Gabriella had winked at her, for once with proud, tearful eyes. Carina had spoken her truth, shared stories of mothers and families who reminded her why she did this work, and had been met with standing applause.

And best of all, her phone vibrated now with a name that made her heart flutter.

Maya

Carina answered with a smile before the first ring finished. “Amore!” “Hey Babe, how’s the star of the seminar?” “I might have autographed someone’s lab coat,” Carina said with a giggle. “Bailey has invited all of us to dinner. She insisted. Said there’s champagne, and Ben made ribs.” Maya’s laugh crackled through the speaker. “You had me at dinner. I just clocked out. I’ll swing by Jack’s, pick up the kids, and meet you there.” Carina sighed in delight. “Perfect. I’m already one glass in, so hurry. I need you to protect me from saying something too Italian.”

Maya arrived at the Warren-Bailey residence just after seven. The front yard was lit with fairy lights strung across the porch and garden, laughter and music spilling through the open windows. She stepped out of the SUV, adjusting Andrea in her carrier and watching Liam bounce on his toes with excitement.

Inside, the house was alive.

Ben greeted her with a wide grin, scooping Liam into his arms. “Come on, buddy. Pru’s been asking for you.” Maya handed over the diaper bag. “Thanks, Ben. And watch out, Andrea’s already trying to crawl, I swear.”

Ben chuckled, nodding to Joey and Tuck, who were already seated on the couch and cooing at baby Andrea. “We’ve got her. Go find your wife, she’s been glowing all evening.”

Maya didn’t have to look far.

Carina was in the kitchen, glass of champagne in hand, laughing loudly at something Gabriella was saying. Her curls framed her face in wild waves, and when she spotted Maya, her whole body seemed to light up.

“There you are,” Carina sang, walking straight into Maya’s arms, giving her a peck on the lips. “Mmm. You smell like smoke and cinnamon.” Maya grinned. “That’s… probably baby spit-up and bacon grease.” “I stand by it,” Carina said, kissing her quickly soft and warm, just enough to stir something beneath Maya’s ribs.

Gabriella appeared beside them, her accent as rich as ever. “I’ve been telling her all evening, you’re the luckiest woman in Seattle.” Maya smirked. “Don’t I know it?” “I need another drink,” Carina murmured, swaying a little against Maya as she passed off her glass. “Come meet the rest.”

As they moved toward the living room, Maya spotted Arizona across the room, chatting animatedly with Bailey. The surgeon looked up and smiled warmly. “Maya Bishop, right?” “DeLuca-Bishop” Liam shrieked as he zoomed past them while Joey trying to catch him.  “Hey,” Maya said, stepping toward her. “It’s good to meet you.”

Gabriella came up beside her, looping an arm around Arizona’s. “Look at this trio past, present, and ultimate fangirl of Carina DeLuca-Bishop.” Arizona chuckled. “She really is something, huh?” “She always was,” Gabriella added. “But today? She was… unstoppable.” Maya blushed, caught off-guard by how genuinely fond they both sounded. “Yeah, she’s kind of amazing.” 

Carina, from across the room, had been watching the three of them nervously. She saw the way Arizona leaned in. How Gabriella tossed her head back when she laughed. She took one step forward, just in case. But as she got closer, she heard “She lights up when she talks about you, you know,” Arizona said. Maya looked slightly surprised. Gabriella nodded. “Even back when we were just messing around, she had this… fierce, unreachable softness. Like she was saving the deepest parts of her for someone she hadn’t met yet.” “She found them with you,” Arizona finished. “Well I should thank you Dr Robbin’s for ending it when you did. If not I would not have met the woman of my dreams” Maya said with a glint in her eye. 

Carina stood frozen for a second, heart full, champagne fuzzing the edges of her thoughts. Maya spotted her then, holding her gaze and offering a soft, reassuring smile. Carina walked over and looped her arm around Maya’s waist, resting her head on her shoulder. “You behaving over here?” “They were just flattering me on your behalf,” Maya teased, pressing a kiss to Carina’s temple. Carina looked at the two women and softened. “Thank you,” she said. “For being part of today. It meant everything.”

Dinner was a blend of organised chaos and cozy conversation. Pru ran circles around the adults, dragging Liam behind her like a puppy on a leash. Tuck rolled his eyes but kept a steady hold on Andrea, occasionally rocking her gently, as the adults ate.

Carina sat wedged between Maya and Bailey, still sipping her third or was it fourth,  glass of champagne. The warmth in her chest was now from more than just the alcohol. She felt held tonight in community, in love, in pride. “You know,” Bailey slurred, tipsy as well, pointing her fork at Maya. “You’ve got yourself a real gem.” Maya blinked. “Oh, I know.” “No, no listen. I mean, Arizona? Gorgeous. Gabriella? Smart as hell. But neither of them could have matched this woman. Not like you do” Carina let out a delighted laugh. Maya tried not to blush. “I think I got lucky.” Bailey leaned in conspiratorially. “You both did.” 

Later that night, back at home, the energy had shifted.

They’d tiptoed into the nursery, laid Andrea down with a kiss to her forehead, and carried a nearly asleep Liam to his crib. He murmured something about ribs and cartoons before snuggling under his dinosaur blanket.

Maya stood in the hallway afterward, watching Carina close the nursery door. Her wife was humming softly, one of the Italian lullabies she always sang to the kids and Maya felt a wave of emotion crash into her chest. She followed her into their bedroom. “Shower?” “Please,” Carina said, already slipping out of her pants.

They stood under the warm spray, steam rising around them like a cocoon. Carina washed Maya’s hair gently, fingers massaging her scalp with the kind of intimacy only long-term love can bring. Maya leaned into her, eyes closed, safe.

Later, they lay in bed, the sheets cool and the windows cracked just enough to let in the night breeze. Carina was curled against Maya’s chest, her hand tracing slow circles on her stomach.

“I didn’t tell you about my run-in with Chief Ross today,” Maya murmured. Carina tilted her head up. “What happened?” “She saw me with the kids at the station. Even though Jack was taking them home. Even though I was on shift. She said the station’s not a daycare.” Maya’s voice tightened. “She made it sound like… like I was using the place to play house.” Carina propped herself up on one elbow, her eyes searching Maya’s. “That’s not fair.” “I know. I know it’s not. But it’s like no matter how hard I work, how much I show up, she still sees me as this… reckless, selfish version of who I used to be.”

Carina brushed her fingers along Maya’s jaw. “She’s wrong.” “She doesn’t think I belong.” “Well,” Carina said softly, “she’s not the one who gets to decide that.” Maya looked away. “You belong everywhere your heart is. You belong at that station because you’ve earned it. You belong with me. With our children. You are not who you were, Maya. You worked so damn hard to get to where you are today. ”

Maya’s eyes brimmed. “It just gets heavy sometimes.” “I know,” Carina whispered, leaning in to press her lips gently to Maya’s. “So let me carry it with you. Let me help you. You are everything to me and those two tiny babies in the other room. We can make all your dreams come true together”

Maya pulled her close, arms tightening around her wife’s waist. “You are my dream Dr DeLuca.” “DeLuca-Bishop” Carina corrected. “Liam would be proud of you” Maya smiled, “I love you so much, Baby.”  “I love you,” Carina echoed. “More than champagne. More than today. More than anything.”

And in the silence that followed, Maya finally let herself believe it again.

Joe’s Bar was alive with that special kind of energy, a mix of nostalgia, accomplishment, and a healthy pour of tequila.

Firefighters and doctors alike were crammed into booths, nursing drinks and swapping stories. Music thumped in the background, someone had taken over the jukebox with early 2000s pop, and laughter ricocheted off the walls like confetti.

Maya and Carina walked in hand in hand, flushed with anticipation and already buzzing from the two pregame glasses of wine they’d shared at home. With the kids safely spending the night at Peggy and Dayna’s, it was their first full night off in what felt like years.

Maya paused just inside the entrance, scanning the room. “Wow,” she said. “It’s like a Grey Sloan and Station 19 reunion party in here.” Carina giggled, nudging her. “Do not get competitive. It’s not the Olympics.” “I’m just saying,” Maya said, already smirking. “If we had to do a ‘most heroic saves’ count, we both know who’s taking gold.” “Please,” Carina said. “I deliver life. You run into burning buildings. We’re both legends.”

They laughed as they made their way to the group. Jack waved them over from the bar, already deep into a beer and a teasing conversation with Gabriella Aurora, who looked far too cozy perched on the stool next to him.

“Ladies!” Jack called, lifting his drink. “Guess who just asked me if I wanted to be her research subject tonight?” Gabriella gave a slow, sultry smile. “Science waits for no man.” Maya choked on her laugh. “Jack, blink twice if you need saving.” “I’m fine,” he said proudly. “Unless ‘Italian anatomical exploration’ requires a safe word.”Carina groaned. “Oh, Dio mio, Jack you do realise you’ve had two serious head injuries in the past year.” “Jack, I don’t think you’re brave enough to handle an Italian in bed” Maya said, smirking at Carina. 

Gabriella leaned closer to Jack, who was trying not to smirk and whispered something that made him choke on his whiskey. “Your friends are dangerous,” Maya murmured to Carina. “You married me,” Carina said with a wink. “You’re the one who likes danger.”

At a corner booth, Arizona sipped on a cider, watching the room with soft eyes. Carina slid into the seat across from her, their glasses clinking in a toast before either of them spoke. “Big week,” Arizona said. “The biggest,” Carina agreed, smiling. “I still can’t believe it all happened.” “You were incredible up there. Really. I’ve always known how brilliant you are, but… you’re in your element now, Carina.” Carina blushed. “Thank you. That means a lot.”

They sat in silence for a moment, the kind that only happens between people with history, comfortable, layered, reflective. “I never saw you as the kind of person to settle down,” Arizona said quietly. “Marriage. Kids. I always thought you were ready to jump to the next place once you were done with that phase of your life.” “But now?” Carina asked.

Arizona shrugged. “Seeing you, really seeing you, with Maya, with those beautiful babies, it made me realise I might’ve been wrong with how I handled everything with you and Sophia.” Carina reached for her hand across the table. “Back then, I was not ready to have kids or be some kind of parent figure to Sophia. We both wanted different things and it worked out for the best.” Arizona smiled, a little wistful. “It really did. I’m really proud of you, Carina.”

They sat like that for a moment longer, two women with a shared past and entirely separate futures, both at peace.

Carina spotted Maya across the room, Maya was halfway through her third whiskey sour and feeling buzzed in the best way possible. Carina with a mischievous grin, slid into the stool next to her “You look familiar?” “Yeah, I drink here a lot” Maya replied. Carina raised an eyebrow. “No, hmmm…..were you in my bed last night screaming my name?” “That’s not how I remember it.”  Maya giggled, Carina grinned “Oh? How do you remember it?” Maya stood, swaying slightly, and puffed out her chest in mock bravado. “My name is the name you will be screaming later tonight when I fuck you with the strap.” Carina snorted. “You’re drunk.” Maya waggled her eyebrows. “Exactly. Drunk sex is the best kind” “Okay, okay,” Carina said, grabbing Maya’s shirt and pulling her in for a kiss.

Around midnight, Gabriella and Jack vanished, though no one was surprised and the party started thinning out. Maya and Carina stumbled out of Joe’s hand-in-hand, flushed with alcohol and affection. The cool night air hit them like a wave. Maya pulled Carina closer, her voice husky. “You know what I was thinking about all through that conversation with Arizona?” “Hm?” “How good you look when you’re flirty and tipsy.” Carina grinned. “You’re not so bad yourself, Lieutenant.”

Maya kissed her under the streetlight.

Then again at the front door.

And once more as they nearly tripped over the threshold, giggling like teenagers.

The house was quiet, dimly lit by the soft glow of the hallway light.

They didn’t make it far.

The living room rug became the first stop. Shirts came off, jeans were kicked aside, and Carina’s laugh echoed as Maya stepped on one of Liam’s blocks. Maya then guided her down to the floor, kissing a path from her collarbone to her stomach.

When they both came down from their high, Maya stood up, offering her hand “Where to next, Dottoressa?” “The kitchen,” Carina said, breathless and wide-eyed. “I want to feel the cold counter against my back.” Maya raised a brow. “You’re filthy.” “You love it.” Maya kissed her fiercely. “I do” she yelled, running into the bedroom for the harness. The kitchen was a blur of hands and mouths and desperate whispers as Carina had Maya bent over the kitchen counter with the wooden spoon spanking a little pain to pleasure.

Then came the dining room table where Maya cleared the fruit bowl with a dramatic sweep and Carina climbed up like she was reclaiming a throne. Maya stepped into the harness and kept her promise she made Carina at Joe’s. 

Eventually, tangled in limbs and flushed skin, they found their way to the bedroom and collapsed in their bed, giggling and spent, wrapped in each other like a final exhale of joy.

Morning came with vengeance.

Sunlight sliced through the curtains, far too aggressive for two hungover parents.

Maya groaned, face buried in the pillow. “Why does my head feel like I’ve been hit by a firetruck?”

Carina, equally groggy, peeked out from under the blanket. “Because you drank like you were twenty.”

The doorbell rang.

They both froze.

“Oh no,” Maya said, bolting upright, ignoring the instant regret from the sudden motion.

Carina’s eyes widened. “The kids!”

Maya scrambled for a robe, nearly tripping over Carina’s bra in the hallway.

At the door stood Dayna, fresh as a daisy, holding Andrea in her arms and Liam by the hand. “Morning!” she chirped. Liam shouted, “MOMMY!” Maya winced at the volume. “Hey, buddy,” she rasped, scooping him up. Dayna grinned, knowingly eyeing the state of Maya’s hair and the faint bruise on her neck. “Have a nice night?”

Carina appeared behind Maya, hair wild, wearing one of Maya’s sweatshirts and no pants. “Oh, definitely,” Dayna said, laughing. “Alright, lovebirds. We’ll catch you later.” As the door shut, Carina leaned against it and sighed. “We’re too old for hangovers.” “Speak for yourself,” Maya said, then winced as she stepped on the wooden spoon that had definitely not been in the hallway yesterday. “Okay, maybe not.” Carina kissed her cheek. “Worth it?”

Maya looked at their baby girl sleeping peacefully in her arms, Liam blowing raspberries on her shoulder, and her wife standing half-naked and radiant even in sleep-deprivation.

She smiled. “Every second.”