Christmas had passed by in a blur for Azure.
On Christmas Eve, her brother Caleb came back to New York from his house in Philly, along with his daughter and his wife.
Her father had been exceptionally happy that she was able to come home for the holidays, and her mother was busy hosting elaborate dinner parties and attending social events, leaving Azure feeling somewhat lost amid the festivities.
Despite the chaos of the holiday season, Azure found solace in spending time with her family and reconnecting with her brother and niece.
She was far from fond of toddlers in general, but she was surprisingly okay with Ethan. She was rather cute, even.
She couldn't quite understand why they had called her Ethan, but whatever.
She had been offered a few gifts, not that she really cared. Her father had insisted on getting her a new car for when she was visiting. Azure guessed it was a way to tell her that he missed her, and wished she would spend more time at home. The gesture touched Azure, but it also made her feel a twinge of guilt for not being more present in her family's life.
She was now in her new car, waiting for Katie's plane to land at JFK. She drummed her fingers anxiously on the steering wheel, her excitement growing with each passing moment.
Her phone buzzed.
Katie McCabe: I'm fucking lost.
Azure: in the airport?
Katie McCabe: No, inside the plane.
Katie McCabe: Of course in the fucking airport you dumbass.
Azure couldn't help but chuckle at Katie's response, her heart lightening at the thought of finally being reunited with her friend.
Azure: Always so kind ain't you. Where are you now?
Katie McCabe: Trying to find baggage claim. I think I might have taken the wrong turn.
Azure rolled her eyes playfully at Katie's predicament, shaking her head in amusement.
Azure: Typical McCabe. Don't worry, I'll come find you. Just stay put.
Katie McCabe: You better. I have no idea where I am.
With a fond smile, Azure pocketed her phone and made her way through the crowded airport, weaving through the throngs of people.
After a few minutes of weaving through the crowds, Azure finally spotted Katie standing near a sign for baggage claim, looking slightly lost amidst the chaos of the airport. Azure couldn't help but smile at the sight of her friend.
"Katie!" Azure called out, waving excitedly as she approached. "Over here!"
Katie turned at the sound of Azure's voice, her face breaking into a relieved grin as she spotted her friend. "Thank god," she exclaimed, hurrying over to Azure's side. "I thought I was going to be stuck here forever."
Azure laughed, pulling Katie into a tight hug. "You made it," she replied, her voice filled with warmth. "I missed you." She mumbled, her voice slightly muffled by the thick hoodie Katie was wearing.
Katie returned Azure's hug with equal enthusiasm, her arms wrapping tightly around her friend. "Missed you too, Rockwell," she murmured softly, her voice filled with sincerity. "Thanks for picking me up."
Azure pulled back slightly, smiling warmly at Katie. "Of course," she replied, her eyes sparkling with affection. "Welcome to New York."
With a shared grin, Azure led Katie towards the exit of the airport, insisting on holding her suitcase for her. As they were about to step into the coldness of the outside, a voice coming their way interrupted them.
