Alone, Kira walked into Santa's Cafe for lunch to await the verdict, as the perpetual home baked scent of freshly baked cookies rushed toward her, filling the air.

“One for lunch today?” Angela asked, picking up a menu as she approached Kira, smiling as if she hadn't a care in the world.

Kira nodded, smiling. “Yes, please.”

“Well, alrighty, then! Right this way!” Angela headed down the aisle toward the booth where she and Xavier had been the last time--the last time--she had been there. “Is this okay?”

Kira let out a deep breath and nodded. “Yes, it's fine,” she said, sliding into the booth.

“May I get you a...