She remained silent, observing without comment, slowly sipping her coffee. The tension in the room was palpable, a heavy atmosphere punctuated only by the occasional sharp retort. Verity's cessation of bickering finally allowed a calmer, more convivial conversation to unfold.

Calista and Dahlia Baker arrived and settled beside Calliope. Calliope inquired about their schoolwork and Calista's progress at the company. Calista had been spending his free time learning from Silas at the office. Silas consistently praised Calista's rapid learning, noting his considerable advancement beyond Gideon at a similar age. Calista’s eventual independence seemed imminent.

"It's been great," Calista affirmed seriously. "Uncle Silas has taught me so much. I also ask you, Aunt Callie, whenever I'm stuck, and I feel like I've mastered it all."

"You're doing remarkably well," Calliope replied, beaming. "Your uncle is incredibly impressed! At this rate, you'll be running the show soon."

Dahlia piped up, "Aunt Callie, you're only praising him! I've learned a lot too! I'm doing pretty well!"

"You are, Dahlia! You've completely mastered every sewing technique I've taught you!" Calliope laughed, finding Dahlia utterly charming. Dahlia responded with a broad, happy grin.

Soon, the entire family gathered in the dining room for their holiday dinner, their chatter and laughter filling the space. Calliope sat beside Eamon, ensuring his plate remained full. She mentioned spending Christmas Eve with her brothers. Eamon readily agreed, urging her to enjoy her family's company.

"Don't worry about me," Eamon chuckled. "The house will be full of visitors. I won't be lonely." He glanced at Silas, adding, "Silas, keep Calliope company, alright?"

"Of course," Silas replied with a nod.

Across the table, Gideon observed them, a pang of jealousy tightening his chest. Their happiness was a stark contrast to the awkwardness on his side of the table. Despite Yvette's pregnancy, their family lacked joy. Gideon watched Calliope, a profound regret washing over him. He'd missed his chance, a realization that weighed heavily on him. He envisioned Calliope beside him, not Yvette, whose lack of grace made even dinner seem strained. While others savored the meal, Gideon’s family appeared miserable.

After dinner, they convened in the living room. Eamon distributed envelopes of cash to the children, a cherished family tradition, giving Calliope an especially generous amount, which she initially declined before accepting his insistence. He also gave one to Yvette, adding seriously, "Yvette, as Gideon's wife, I expect you to uphold your responsibilities. The Baker family doesn't judge, but don't give us cause, alright?"

"I understand. Thank you, Grandpa!" Yvette stammered, her cheeks flushed.

Calliope observed Yvette thoughtfully but remained silent. Later, someone suggested a game to conclude the evening. Poker and Monopoly were both proposed. Calliope opted for poker, followed by Silas, Calista, Dahlia, and several others, even Verity. As they departed, Verity called out, "Hey, Ash, you usually play poker! Join us! It's the holidays. No need to be alone!"