In the days that followed, Calliope juggled work and numerous meetings around town. Each evening, she checked on Horatio, administering his daily injections. Thankfully, he seemed to be recovering well, perhaps because Damien's surveillance had deterred further trouble from the Jewells. Calliope also visited Lance and Hudson. However, Hudson's condition worsened daily, despite Calliope's best efforts— dietary changes, supplements, and everything else she could manage.
Lance, accepting the situation, focused on keeping Hudson's spirits high, filling their time with laughter and shared memories. He took countless photographs, wrote notes, and even baked Hudson's favorite chocolate chip cookies, eliciting smiles. Hudson, understanding Lance's preparations for the inevitable, remained at peace. He simply hoped Lance would cherish their good times and continue living fully after his passing.
Calliope empathized deeply, her heart aching at their plight. Unable to offer a miracle cure or further intervention, she could only help Hudson hold on. Sometimes, all one could do was hope and persevere. At least Hudson's positive attitude made a difference.
Time flew, and Christmas Eve approached. After the last incident, Oliver Myers hadn't reappeared. Calliope learned he'd returned overseas, offering some relief. The day before Christmas Eve, all three of her "brothers" unexpectedly arrived from different parts of the world— on the same day. Calliope volunteered to pick them up at the airport.
Julius Quillen landed first, impeccably dressed as always. His celebrity status attracted a throng of enthusiastic fans at arrivals. Feeling overwhelmed, Calliope tried to avoid the crowd, aware of the potential for intense fan behavior. Julius spotted her, waved, and put on his sunglasses. Panicked, Calliope turned to flee.
The fans' excited calls filled the terminal: "Julius! Who are you waving at?" "Julius, over here! Look at me!" "Oh my god, Julius, I love you so much! I came all the way here just to see you!" "Is Julius home for Christmas?" "Julius, we love you! Do you have any plans for the holidays?"
Julius greeted them warmly, posing for selfies before explaining, "Thanks so much for coming out, but my family's here. I think you scared her off!" He added, "Hey, it's nothing personal, I promise! We'll see each other again. I need to get my brothers; time's tight!" He expressed his gratitude for their support, promising continued hard work.
His genuine words and infectious smile diffused the situation. The fans, understanding his need for privacy, respectfully cleared a path. "Alright, let's give Julius some space!" one said. "Yeah, his family's here. We shouldn't get in their way," another added. "Exactly."