Stacey put down her phone. Theodore, Jenny, all of it—indifferent. Lillian and Kevin still slept. She tiptoed out, tidied up, and headed downstairs.

Debra practically pounced. "More good news about Theodore!"

Stacey smiled. "Mom, I know. I don't care anymore."

Debra's face lit up. "That's right! Past is past."

"Christmas is coming," Debra continued, beaming. "Remember Hay's Zentiscape invitation for Mr. Fraley? Perfect timing!"

Stacey nodded. "It depends on Mr. Fraley and Hayden." Jeremy popped into her mind. Hoping he wasn't causing a fuss.

"Speaking of," Debra said, "Jeremy's discharge is in two weeks, right?"

"Yes," Stacey replied.

"He'll be talking like a normal kid soon!" Debra exclaimed.

"If his recovery continues," Stacey said, "the doctor said no problems."

"No problems at all! He's a lucky kid," Debra chirped.

Just then, Charlie video-called. He excitedly relayed Theodore's latest mishap with Jenny. Stacey listened patiently, then declared her disinterest.

Charlie, initially stunned, then grinned. "Good. He doesn't deserve your energy, not even your hate." He sobered. "The year-end ceremony's coming. You'll be invited, maybe even win an award. Going?"

Stacey was surprised. She'd focused on Hoggard Technologies for six months. Lynn hadn't mentioned the ceremony. It was the industry's biggest night, a prestigious affair. Charlie and Janet were past winners.

"Go, Stacey! Your shows were huge hits! You deserve it! Plus, great for L&K Group publicity," Charlie urged.

Stacey thought of Charlie's company and her heart softened. "Okay, I'll go."

"Great! I'll tell Lynn," Charlie said.

"Okay," Stacey smiled. Hanging up, she felt unreal. The year flew by. Happiness does that, she mused.

Half an hour later, Bryce called with a Theodore update. Adrian followed, brief and cheerful about Stacey's apathy towards Theodore. A child's voice cut him short. Adrian whispered something and hung up. Stacey felt amused and helpless, yet secretly wished Adrian and Isabella well, and for Carly's exoneration.

Dawn broke. Stacey raced upstairs. Lillian and Kevin were awake, precariously perched on the bed's edge. "Mommy!" Kevin yelled, delighted.

Lillian, turning to see Stacey, tumbled off the bed. She wasn't upset, scrambling up to hug Stacey. "Mommy!"

Stacey scooped up Lillian, pinched Kevin's cheek. "When did you wake up?"