Everyone calls out their goodbyes as Lara heads through the front door.

The moment it closes behind her, Tina turns slowly toward Dana and gives her a pointed, disapproving look.

Dana immediately raises a finger at her. “You’re judging again…”

Tina lifts both hands in surrender, turns away without another word, and returns to unpacking.

Dana watches her for a moment, then leans her head back against the wall and lets out a long, defeated sigh. Around her, the laughter and chatter gradually resume as everyone returns to work…

***

In the kitchen, Bette helps Kit unpack the takeout bags from The Planet, arranging sandwiches and salads across the enormous marble island. Sunlight streams through the floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the backyard, brightening the pristine countertops and stainless-steel appliances.

Kit sets a stack of napkins beside the food and begins sorting through the containers.

Bette glances toward the foyer, where Alice’s unmistakable laughter carries through the house. Satisfied that Tina is still occupied with their friends, she leans closer to her sister and lowers her voice. “Hey, are you still able to help me out with dinner Friday?”

Kit looks up and smiles knowingly. “Of course, baby girl. I’ve already carved out some time to make Tina’s favorite, creamy Cajun shrimp Alfredo with the sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil.”

Bette’s face brightens. “Perfect.” She reaches over and gives Kit’s arm an affectionate squeeze. “Thank you. Seriously, Kit, I really appreciate it.”

Kit waves her off with a smile. “Oh, please. You know I love cooking for my family.” She pauses, studying her younger sister for a moment before playfully nudging her with her elbow. “So, what’s the occasion?”

Bette breaks eye contact and shrugs, shaking her head as she removes a large salad container from the bag. “No occasion. I just want a nice family dinner in our new home.”

Kit smiles. “Nice…” She nods toward the foyer, where the sound of their friends laughing carries into the kitchen. “You want me to take the kiddos for the night?” She playfully nudges Bette’s arm again, giving her a knowing smile. “Give you and Tina a little alone time…”

Bette looks up and shakes her head. “No…” Her response comes a little too quickly.

Kit pauses, slightly caught off guard by the sudden nervousness in her sister’s voice. “You sure? I don’t mind. I can move some stuff—”